William asks…
Are there any cruises from miami to bahamas and stay on the island for one night and cruise back?
We want to go to the Bahamas for just one day. We want to cruise there and get a hotel on the island. We want to then cruise back another day. Is there anything like that being offered?
John answers:
There are a couple options, but not out of Miami. Discovery Cruise Lines offers a two day sailing out of Ft. Lauderdale to Grand Bahama Island, with
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
Your Questions About Cruises Out Of New Orleans
Sandra asks…
where to go on our cruise?
my husband and i are planning a cruise for next year...a few questions...when is the best and/or cheapest time to go, what cruise line do you suggest, and where should we go? we're leaving out of either mobile al or new orleans la they're both an hour away from us. one to the east and one to the west lol thanks in advance!
John answers:
Sandra, as of October 22nd of this year, no major cruise line will be sailing from Mo
where to go on our cruise?
my husband and i are planning a cruise for next year...a few questions...when is the best and/or cheapest time to go, what cruise line do you suggest, and where should we go? we're leaving out of either mobile al or new orleans la they're both an hour away from us. one to the east and one to the west lol thanks in advance!
John answers:
Sandra, as of October 22nd of this year, no major cruise line will be sailing from Mo
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Your Questions About Cruises Locally And Transatlantic
Maria asks…
Whats a good website or vacation packages I could get to go in a cruise?
Me and my cousin are thinking about going on a cruise. but we just don't know where to start looking for a great price. What are some websites you would recommend me to visit, or where have you gone that you really liked.
I live in Alabama so I would like a cruise that will leave from Alabama and not from some other place I would have to drive.
John answers:
Maria, you're tim
Whats a good website or vacation packages I could get to go in a cruise?
Me and my cousin are thinking about going on a cruise. but we just don't know where to start looking for a great price. What are some websites you would recommend me to visit, or where have you gone that you really liked.
I live in Alabama so I would like a cruise that will leave from Alabama and not from some other place I would have to drive.
John answers:
Maria, you're tim
Friday, April 8, 2011
Your Questions About Cruises to Mexico
Betty asks…
Do cruise ships in the Gulf of Mexico get cell phone reception? If not do they have pay phones on the ship?
My best friend is going on a cruise ship from Texas to Mexico in the Gulf of Mexico. We talk every day for at least two hours she has bipolar disorder and she talks with me to cope. Do you have any information? Please help me, I will greatly appreciate it.
Thanks soooo much.
John answers:
Well, Nancy, be prepared for high costs. Your
Do cruise ships in the Gulf of Mexico get cell phone reception? If not do they have pay phones on the ship?
My best friend is going on a cruise ship from Texas to Mexico in the Gulf of Mexico. We talk every day for at least two hours she has bipolar disorder and she talks with me to cope. Do you have any information? Please help me, I will greatly appreciate it.
Thanks soooo much.
John answers:
Well, Nancy, be prepared for high costs. Your
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Your Questions About Assorted Riveboat Cruises
Donald asks…
I am going on a riverboat cruise with my wife for her birthday and I have no idea what to wear?
We are going August 15, on the Ohio River, but I have no idea how to dress on these things, is it super dressy? or just dress slacks and a shirt? or just normal? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
John answers:
People will generally dress as they would when going out for dinner at a good restaurant or dinner theater. In cruise terms, it would
I am going on a riverboat cruise with my wife for her birthday and I have no idea what to wear?
We are going August 15, on the Ohio River, but I have no idea how to dress on these things, is it super dressy? or just dress slacks and a shirt? or just normal? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
John answers:
People will generally dress as they would when going out for dinner at a good restaurant or dinner theater. In cruise terms, it would
Monday, April 4, 2011
Your Questions About River Boat Cruises In France And Italy
Nancy asks…
river cruise between France and Italy for 3 couples?
would love to stay a few days in each place and then cruise.
John answers:
Nancy, I'm not entirely certain what you are asking for. Are you looking to go from town to town, stopping for a day or two in one, and then take another boat to the next town on your list, and so on?
If so, this may be possible on day-trip boats that work their way up and down some of Europe's rivers, but you will not be
river cruise between France and Italy for 3 couples?
would love to stay a few days in each place and then cruise.
John answers:
Nancy, I'm not entirely certain what you are asking for. Are you looking to go from town to town, stopping for a day or two in one, and then take another boat to the next town on your list, and so on?
If so, this may be possible on day-trip boats that work their way up and down some of Europe's rivers, but you will not be
Friday, April 1, 2011
Your Questions About Cruise Websites
Sandra asks…
What are some reputable and good travel sites that might be able to provide me with info/tickets for a cruise?
I'm planning on taking a cruise with my father in May, and I was just wondering where I would look to find tickets and information pertaining to a cruise. As of now, I have no idea which cruise line I would like to go. We would like to travel to the Bahamas.
John answers:
For an overview of the market, try Travelocity, Orbitz or Expedi
What are some reputable and good travel sites that might be able to provide me with info/tickets for a cruise?
I'm planning on taking a cruise with my father in May, and I was just wondering where I would look to find tickets and information pertaining to a cruise. As of now, I have no idea which cruise line I would like to go. We would like to travel to the Bahamas.
John answers:
For an overview of the market, try Travelocity, Orbitz or Expedi
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Your Questions About Cruises From New Orleans
Mark asks…
looking for river cruises from New Orleans to Louisville?
hello I'm interested in finding a riverboat cruise from New Orleans up to Louisville
i have check the websites that is no longer any Mississippi river cruises is this correct?
thank you
TM (travelmaster)
John answers:
Hi Mark,
That is correct at the moment. Next year, however, American Cruise Lines is launching a brand new purpose-built paddle-wheeler on the Mississippi River system. Vis
looking for river cruises from New Orleans to Louisville?
hello I'm interested in finding a riverboat cruise from New Orleans up to Louisville
i have check the websites that is no longer any Mississippi river cruises is this correct?
thank you
TM (travelmaster)
John answers:
Hi Mark,
That is correct at the moment. Next year, however, American Cruise Lines is launching a brand new purpose-built paddle-wheeler on the Mississippi River system. Vis
Orion II Is Late
[caption id="attachment_698" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Clelia II"][/caption]
Orion Expedition Cruises has announced that delivery of their new ship, the former Clelia II, has been delayed by about a month. The need for "additional technical work" has been given for the delay.
You may recall the ship's rather harrowing voyage through the Drake Passage this past December. Buffeted by 30 foot seas which broke windows on the bridge and took out the communications equipment, th
Orion Expedition Cruises has announced that delivery of their new ship, the former Clelia II, has been delayed by about a month. The need for "additional technical work" has been given for the delay.
You may recall the ship's rather harrowing voyage through the Drake Passage this past December. Buffeted by 30 foot seas which broke windows on the bridge and took out the communications equipment, th
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Your Questions About Rivers and River Cruises
Susan asks…
What is the best river cruise in the US for 1-2 week trip? Cost not so much a factor as great...?
...scenery and overall exp.
I don't mean a mega-cruise ship; thinking more about itinerary, quality of meals, etc. We have done several ocean cruises and want to try something smaller and closer to home.
John answers:
Susan, since you don't say where home is, I'll give you a few options throughout the country. Please bear in mind that my answer is by n
What is the best river cruise in the US for 1-2 week trip? Cost not so much a factor as great...?
...scenery and overall exp.
I don't mean a mega-cruise ship; thinking more about itinerary, quality of meals, etc. We have done several ocean cruises and want to try something smaller and closer to home.
John answers:
Susan, since you don't say where home is, I'll give you a few options throughout the country. Please bear in mind that my answer is by n
Celebrity Reflection
[caption id="attachment_689" align="alignleft" width="159" caption="Celebrity Silhouette"][/caption]
A steel cutting ceremony for the Celebrity Reflection was held at the Meyer-Werft Shipyard last week, when the first steel plate was cut for the new vessel. The ship will be the fifth and last of Celebrity's very popular Solstice class, scheduled for delivery in November 2012.
Celebrity Reflection represents the culmination of the Solstice class, incorporating and expanding on the feature
A steel cutting ceremony for the Celebrity Reflection was held at the Meyer-Werft Shipyard last week, when the first steel plate was cut for the new vessel. The ship will be the fifth and last of Celebrity's very popular Solstice class, scheduled for delivery in November 2012.
Celebrity Reflection represents the culmination of the Solstice class, incorporating and expanding on the feature
Monday, March 28, 2011
A Great Opportunity To Sample Azamara
[caption id="attachment_683" align="alignleft" width="173" caption="Azamara Journey"][/caption]
I answered a question the other day from a reader asking about a land/cruise combination vacation in the Caribbean. I advised him that he should consider San Juan, the port that I think would give him the most options.
I've just received an email from Azamara Club Cruises that I think would be ideal for this sort of vacation. The Azamara Journey will sail round trip out of San Juan on Novemn
I answered a question the other day from a reader asking about a land/cruise combination vacation in the Caribbean. I advised him that he should consider San Juan, the port that I think would give him the most options.
I've just received an email from Azamara Club Cruises that I think would be ideal for this sort of vacation. The Azamara Journey will sail round trip out of San Juan on Novemn
Your Questions About Cruise Weddings And Shore Excursions
Charles asks…
Bolongo Beach Hotel in St. Thomas USVI?
Are you familiar with this hotel (not sure if I would call it a resort)?? I'm doing my wedding through Royal Caribbean cruise lines and chose St. Thomas for the wedding location, and this is where they do it. I have read some horrible reviews about this place, but Royal Romance assures me that this is "a beautiful property". PLEASE give me an honest review.
John answers:
Bolongo does a lot of weddings
Bolongo Beach Hotel in St. Thomas USVI?
Are you familiar with this hotel (not sure if I would call it a resort)?? I'm doing my wedding through Royal Caribbean cruise lines and chose St. Thomas for the wedding location, and this is where they do it. I have read some horrible reviews about this place, but Royal Romance assures me that this is "a beautiful property". PLEASE give me an honest review.
John answers:
Bolongo does a lot of weddings
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Flower Power
[caption id="attachment_667" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Orchid"][/caption]
I spent a very enjoyable Saturday in Philadelphia a couple weeks ago visiting the 2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show. This year's theme was "Springtime in Paris". How could I resist?
Actually, I try to get there every year. If you've never been and you're even remotely interested in flowers and gardens, you should try to attend. Each year I'm amazed by the displays and the sheer size of
I spent a very enjoyable Saturday in Philadelphia a couple weeks ago visiting the 2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show. This year's theme was "Springtime in Paris". How could I resist?
Actually, I try to get there every year. If you've never been and you're even remotely interested in flowers and gardens, you should try to attend. Each year I'm amazed by the displays and the sheer size of
Your Questions About Cruises - A Bit Of This And That
Chris asks…
How long does it take for a cruise ship to pick up speed once it leaves port?
I will be sailing on the Ruby Princess but it doesn't have to be specific for this ship. Overall reviews would be lovely. Also, how many kids generally sail on the Ruby Princess or Princess Cruises and will a staff member tell a parent to control their child if they are misbehaving/being obnoxious/rude/enjoying. I have nothing against kids, I am 15, I just want to relax.
How long does it take for a cruise ship to pick up speed once it leaves port?
I will be sailing on the Ruby Princess but it doesn't have to be specific for this ship. Overall reviews would be lovely. Also, how many kids generally sail on the Ruby Princess or Princess Cruises and will a staff member tell a parent to control their child if they are misbehaving/being obnoxious/rude/enjoying. I have nothing against kids, I am 15, I just want to relax.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Your Questions About Cruise Deals And Cruise Vacations
Sandra asks…
Do you get good deals for booking a vacation/ cruise last minute?
Is it possible to get a last minute deal? I am looking to go in the end of June, but I want a good deal and I don't mind taking a chance for the last minute.
John answers:
There's always the possibility. Is it likely? No. The more likely outcome is you'll wind up paying more and settling for whatever is still available. You'll have a better chance of getting just the right cab
Do you get good deals for booking a vacation/ cruise last minute?
Is it possible to get a last minute deal? I am looking to go in the end of June, but I want a good deal and I don't mind taking a chance for the last minute.
John answers:
There's always the possibility. Is it likely? No. The more likely outcome is you'll wind up paying more and settling for whatever is still available. You'll have a better chance of getting just the right cab
Friday, March 25, 2011
Uniworld Launches Its Best Ship Yet
[caption id="attachment_660" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="SS Antoinette"][/caption]
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises latest and best ship, SS Antoinette, was christened last Sunday by her godmother and namesake, Antoinette (Toni) Tollman in Amsterdam. Ms. Tollman, daughter of parent company Travel Corp's CEO, Stanley Tollman, was also the lead designer and guiding spirit for the ship's interior decor.
The ship's design was inspired by the Chateau de Versailles, and embodies an 1
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises latest and best ship, SS Antoinette, was christened last Sunday by her godmother and namesake, Antoinette (Toni) Tollman in Amsterdam. Ms. Tollman, daughter of parent company Travel Corp's CEO, Stanley Tollman, was also the lead designer and guiding spirit for the ship's interior decor.
The ship's design was inspired by the Chateau de Versailles, and embodies an 1
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Your Questions About River Cruises
Sandra asks…
Circle Line Cruise - Rockin River Cruise NYC Question?
I bought tickets to ride the Circle Line Cruise (Rockin River Cruise) and watch a band preform on the boat. Due to a family medical emergency I could not go the night of the cruise. Is there any way I can exchange the tickets for another night? The same band is playing next month and tickets are still available. Can I go next month even though I paid for the cruise for tonight?
John ans
Circle Line Cruise - Rockin River Cruise NYC Question?
I bought tickets to ride the Circle Line Cruise (Rockin River Cruise) and watch a band preform on the boat. Due to a family medical emergency I could not go the night of the cruise. Is there any way I can exchange the tickets for another night? The same band is playing next month and tickets are still available. Can I go next month even though I paid for the cruise for tonight?
John ans
Viking River Cruises Unveils Details Of Four New Ships
[caption id="attachment_649" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Artist's Depiction of Viking Freya"][/caption]
As I first mentioned in a previous post, Viking River Cruises is in the midst of a $250 million fleet development program, solidifying even more strongly its place as the leading river cruise company in the world.
In a recent announcement, Viking has released details of four new vessels, designated longships, which will be introduced into European waters at the beginning o
As I first mentioned in a previous post, Viking River Cruises is in the midst of a $250 million fleet development program, solidifying even more strongly its place as the leading river cruise company in the world.
In a recent announcement, Viking has released details of four new vessels, designated longships, which will be introduced into European waters at the beginning o
Your Questions About Cruise Deals On Line
Daniel asks…
Cruise Deals?
Where can I find the best Cruise Deals online?
John answers:
I have found that the best way to find the cruise that you want at the best price is to simply go to the cruise line web sites and click on the links for "deals" and/or "specials". Most of the cruise lines have such a link but they are most easily found on the web sites for Carnival and Royal Caribbean. On some other sites they are there but you have to look through a lot o
Cruise Deals?
Where can I find the best Cruise Deals online?
John answers:
I have found that the best way to find the cruise that you want at the best price is to simply go to the cruise line web sites and click on the links for "deals" and/or "specials". Most of the cruise lines have such a link but they are most easily found on the web sites for Carnival and Royal Caribbean. On some other sites they are there but you have to look through a lot o
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Crystal Cruises Goes "All Inclusive"
[caption id="attachment_641" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Crystal Symphony"][/caption]
I received the following email from Crystal Cruises today:
"Beginning Spring 2012, Crystal Cruises will be All Inclusive, enhancing our already expansive host of complimentary luxury services and amenities with the addition of free fine wines and premium spirits, open bar service in all lounges, and complimentary gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff.
Effective with the spring Tr
I received the following email from Crystal Cruises today:
"Beginning Spring 2012, Crystal Cruises will be All Inclusive, enhancing our already expansive host of complimentary luxury services and amenities with the addition of free fine wines and premium spirits, open bar service in all lounges, and complimentary gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff.
Effective with the spring Tr
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Your Questions About Cruise Insurance
Maria asks…
cruise travel insurance info?
I am a NY res. traveling to Bermuda in July on RC cruise line out of NJ for my daughters sweet 16, taking a few friends of hers as well. My travel agent suggested travel insurance. does anyone have any ideas on where to get Insurance. without getting hit over the head. It seems to be a bit high through the agent.
John answers:
The insurance you get through the TA may be more costly than what you can get on your own. Do a
cruise travel insurance info?
I am a NY res. traveling to Bermuda in July on RC cruise line out of NJ for my daughters sweet 16, taking a few friends of hers as well. My travel agent suggested travel insurance. does anyone have any ideas on where to get Insurance. without getting hit over the head. It seems to be a bit high through the agent.
John answers:
The insurance you get through the TA may be more costly than what you can get on your own. Do a
Say What!?!
[caption id="attachment_631" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Justice"][/caption]
According to a report coming out of Indiana by way of USA Today, a woman is suing Carnival Cruise Lines because the ship she was on went so fast it made her sick.
Originally filed in the Lake County, Indiana Small Claims Court in 2009, the complaint states that the woman's body "swayed terrible" and that she "had bleeding". I'll resist the oh-so-strong temptation to make a snide observation here, but
According to a report coming out of Indiana by way of USA Today, a woman is suing Carnival Cruise Lines because the ship she was on went so fast it made her sick.
Originally filed in the Lake County, Indiana Small Claims Court in 2009, the complaint states that the woman's body "swayed terrible" and that she "had bleeding". I'll resist the oh-so-strong temptation to make a snide observation here, but
Friday, March 18, 2011
Single Supplement Begone!
[caption id="attachment_620" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="River Queen"][/caption]
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has waived the single supplement on dozens of European river boat cruise departures in 2011. And lest you think these departures are relegated to the less desirable early Spring and later Fall, many of them sail in June, July and August, the height of the river cruise season in Europe.
With river boat cruises becoming increasingly popular, this is an excellent oppor
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has waived the single supplement on dozens of European river boat cruise departures in 2011. And lest you think these departures are relegated to the less desirable early Spring and later Fall, many of them sail in June, July and August, the height of the river cruise season in Europe.
With river boat cruises becoming increasingly popular, this is an excellent oppor
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Introducing Royal Princess
[caption id="attachment_613" align="alignleft" width="240" caption="Artist's Rendering of the Royal Princess "][/caption]
Royal Princess is a name which resonates with the many fans of Princess Cruise Lines. Two vessels have already borne the name and, now, in a highly anticipated announcement, Princess reveals that the first of two new builds, set to debut in Spring 2013, will also bring the name back to the fleet.
The press release follows:
"As the first steel plate was cut tod
Royal Princess is a name which resonates with the many fans of Princess Cruise Lines. Two vessels have already borne the name and, now, in a highly anticipated announcement, Princess reveals that the first of two new builds, set to debut in Spring 2013, will also bring the name back to the fleet.
The press release follows:
"As the first steel plate was cut tod
Friday, March 4, 2011
Your Questions About Cruises
William asks…
Will a February cruise leaving from Baltimore, Maryland be cold?
I want to go on the Carnival Pride which leaves from Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday February 14th at 5:30 pm. Then the cruise keeps sailing on Monday February 15th and Tuesday February 16th. The cruise doesn't get down to Florida until Wednesday February 17th. Will it be cold before we get to Florida?
John answers:
It will be cold. Generally, the weather in the Baltimore area is 30`s &am
Will a February cruise leaving from Baltimore, Maryland be cold?
I want to go on the Carnival Pride which leaves from Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday February 14th at 5:30 pm. Then the cruise keeps sailing on Monday February 15th and Tuesday February 16th. The cruise doesn't get down to Florida until Wednesday February 17th. Will it be cold before we get to Florida?
John answers:
It will be cold. Generally, the weather in the Baltimore area is 30`s &am
Thursday, February 3, 2011
A Step Beyond
[caption id="attachment_72" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Antarctica"][/caption]
Just about a year ago, I had the immense good fortune to cruise on the Star Princess to Antarctica. Sailing along the Antarctic Peninsula was an experience that touched me deeply, and forever changed the way I view the world.
I wrote extensively about my trip at the time. If interested, you can read my blog entries here:
Post 1
Post 2
Post 3
Post 4
Cruising as we did through Antarc
Just about a year ago, I had the immense good fortune to cruise on the Star Princess to Antarctica. Sailing along the Antarctic Peninsula was an experience that touched me deeply, and forever changed the way I view the world.
I wrote extensively about my trip at the time. If interested, you can read my blog entries here:
Post 1
Post 2
Post 3
Post 4
Cruising as we did through Antarc
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Grand Old Lady of the Seas Rescued
[caption id="attachment_587" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="SS United States (background) and SS America (foreground)"][/caption]
The SS United States Conservancy took formal possession of the SS United States yesterday. You can read about the original announcement here. After years of rusting away in Philadelphia, changing hands several times, and coming close to her end on more than one occasion, the ship is finally in the hands of an organization dedicated to her survival.
P
The SS United States Conservancy took formal possession of the SS United States yesterday. You can read about the original announcement here. After years of rusting away in Philadelphia, changing hands several times, and coming close to her end on more than one occasion, the ship is finally in the hands of an organization dedicated to her survival.
P
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
A New Beginning
[caption id="attachment_580" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Working From Home"][/caption]
Today is the beginning of a new adventure for me. I am now officially self-employed with all the opportunities and pitfalls that implies. It is both exciting and daunting at the same time.
This is a long-held dream brought to fruition, with lots of planning and hard work along the way. I've prepared for this move as best I could, but there is still an element of risk involved.
I gav
Today is the beginning of a new adventure for me. I am now officially self-employed with all the opportunities and pitfalls that implies. It is both exciting and daunting at the same time.
This is a long-held dream brought to fruition, with lots of planning and hard work along the way. I've prepared for this move as best I could, but there is still an element of risk involved.
I gav
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