Jamaica~

[JoeyandDavid]

On another thread Jamaica is being touted as an unfavorite dangerous Port of call ..

the quick question:

Should the Cruise Industry abandon Jamaica as a port option on their Caribbean runs until the Island can stabilize and ensure the safety of all passengers and guests?

[sailingrose]

I voted I don't know because I have mixed emotions. Yes, Jamaica has problems but it is a lovely country with friendly, helpful people. We have never felt unsafe there but have heard many stories of those who weren't. I think if you get away from the port area you are better off. It really is a lovely country and we've done many things there that have given us wonderful memories.

[GottaCruz]

I voted yes because to me, vacation and guns just don't go together. I have heard though, from folks who have vacationed there without going to the port, that it is gorgeous , relaxing, etc. I just haven't seen that part yet.

[KeithnRita]

I also voted I don't know. There are places to avoid in Jamaica, just as there are in Washington, DC.

[DebbieandJerry]

I voted "yes" because I didn't feel particularly safe both times that we stopped in Ochos Rios. Jerry was cornered by some locals to "buy some cigarettes" and he really had no idea that they were trying to sell him dope. Luckily, we were all there telling him that we had to leave. Sometimes my husband ponders way too much.

With that being said (and voted upon), I would hope that any cruiseline wouldn't stop at a port that would present danger to itself or its passengers.

Which brings me to ... Columbia, parts of Mexico ??

[jacketwatch]

I say no, not yet. We have had three land vacations there though the last was around 1995. each time was honestly very good. We had alot of fun and never felt threatened. However I do see where a fair number of folks feel otherwise and have good reasons for their opinions. maybe its because of the good times we've had there that I vote this way. However if crime becomes a serious threat then the cruise lines would have no choice and to me that would be a shame because most folkd there are very friendly. We just had a stop in OR last mo. BTW and all went well.

[JohnG]

I say no. I've been there numerous times and no problems. And they are building a new port in Falmouth to handle the Oasis class of RCCL ships. Much development on the northwest and north side of the island. Plenty to do there safely if you stick with organized activities and resorts. Get off th beaten track, as in many places in the US, and you can get in trouble. Sandals and RIU and many other all-inclusives have been building and opening one new all-inclusive after another, and they wouldn't if it wasn't safe to use them.

[coloradocruisers]

I voted yes, because I think Jamaica could do alot more to increase the security of their visitors. The threat of going a boycott might be what they need to make the investment.

[Gregswife]

I voted yes. We have been to Ocho Rios several times and it was "okay", but it has been 8 yrs. or so since we were last there. Last year, we docked in Montego Bay. We got on a catamarran right next to the ship and it took us on a snorkeling excursion. We were hounded the whole time we were on it by the workers, selling jewelry and foot massages. After snorkeling, they took us over to Margaritaville. We entered thru the back (ocean side) and Bev and I went in to buy t-shirts. Greg and Jud went out the front door to smoke a cigar and they said that they were asked at least 10 times if they wanted to buy drugs. Thy said a policeman was standing right there and watching and never said a word. Then the boat took us back to the ship. We went into the shops right there at the pier and it was awful - the people would follow you from shop to shop and wait outside for you. After about 10-15 minutes, Jud said he wanted to return to the ship as he was very uncomfortable. We will not do another cruise that has Jamaica as a port....

[TheSkipper]

Voted "I don't know." I agree with Rose's comments. Been there several times and never had any serious problems. Sometimes annoyed, but not real issues.