Shelerich

So the reputable private tour operators know how to contact the ship should something go wrong and they also are aware of negative ratings so will not jeopardize potential cruise clientele bookings by royally messing up a return to ship. My 2 cents worth is if you only have a 8 hour window that the ship is docked - dont sign up for a 7hr private tour. Play it safe and at a max organize a 5 hour tour - which plans to have you back at the ship with AT LEAST an hour to spare - so if things to go awry - you have a buffer...Most private tours with pre-arrangement can pick you up at the dock (which saves time). Not all ports and stops are suitable for a private tour.... as an example... Naples...... i would be wary of taking a private tour to Amalfi - its a long haul (even for the organized tour) and you spend most of your time in a vehicle. Same with the "Berlin" or "hamburg" ports - you get where i am going with this...

So keep in mind - usually the GALA outfits are worn by those attending dinner in the MDR. (and others have noted the 'minimum' attire that is acceptable) BUT if you still want the same food, you can go to the Lido in your casual attire - most of the items on the MDR menu each night is also served in the LIDO at one or more of the food stations.

I love my one STRONG coffee of the day. I cannot stand the coffee in the Lido - but because i also only have one double espresso each morning, its cheaper for me to get it at the Crow's Nest (or if your on the Rotterdam, the Dutch Cafe has good coffee too) we don't buy the package as the hubby doesn't drink coffee.

YES!!!! I agree completely. You can squeeze a heck of a lot in that blue laundry bag and its only $30 (or is it $35 now?) My husband and I have done 2 x14 day cruises and only did 3 bag loads for each trip (we travelled with large backpacks and no huge suitcases!).