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There's no policy against posting the names of tour companies. It's done all the time.

You can download and install an eSIM and activate it when you're ready to use it. Check out the eSIM Database for a listing of just about every option. I've used Airalo and found it very easy to use.

Can't do that here on CC...not allowed. That's why I suggested you speak with fellow cruisers. A good TA will likely know more about cruise line offerings than those who work there in customer service. If you find a good TA, she will get back to you with the answers you need...and others at her agency can serve you if she is busy or out of the office.

You might want to ask fellow cruisers on your next cruise about what their TA offers in value added benefits. By dealing directly with the cruise line you may be missing out on discounts, rebates, OBCs, and other benefits. I book only cruise travel with our TA. Everything else I book myself.

This email address has worked well for me: specialrequests@rssc.com

That area is currently closed to cruise ship traffic. See the following published on TravelPULSE: Last updated: 7:35 PM ET, Thu October 12, 2023 Currently home to Europe’s largest cruise port, the popular Spanish city of Barcelona is restricting port access in an effort to mitigate the impacts of overtourism, an issue that continues to overwhelm many sought-after European destinations. Following an agreement with local authorities to relocate cruise ships further from the city proper, officials have closed Barcelona’s northern port terminal to all cruise traffic. Passenger cruise vessels will now be required to dock at the Moll d’Adossat pier, situated furthest from the storied city center.

There is one cruise port in Barcelona with one long pier. No need to know which berth. Your taxi driver just needs to drive down the pier until he sees your ship.

if you’re referring to RomeCabs, yes they do drop off and pick up at the ship within the port.

We have used RomeCabs for airport and port transfers for years and have always received excellent service. They are well regarded by many on this forum.

It's not a scientific analysis...just an observation.

Don't be bummed if Starlink isn't up and running in time for your cruise. As I previously mentioned, internet speed on Splendor was about twice as fast without Starlink than on Grandeur with it.

When we cruised on Grandeur in January and February we could very rarely hear muffled conversation, but never the TV...

Living in the US and dealing with a Canadian TA opens up a whole new set of issues apparently. My suggestion would be to obtain a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees such as the Citi Costco card which is free...there are other free and paid credit cards. Also, consider a Schwab debit card for free ATM withdrawals worldwide. It's the best way to obtain foreign currency. Any fees incurred are reimbursed to your account at the end of the month. Can't say enough good things about Schwab.

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If your dates are May 26 - 30, 2025, I'm seeing plenty of availability. Try this link.