Yooper80

One of big banner ads states: "Enjoy the pleasure of a cruise for a fraction of the price"

Really? You're serious?

Our RCCL 4 nighter to the Bahamas:

$223 per person for an outside cabin. This includes all our meals, and use of all the amenities onboard.

The SS Badger 8 hour round trip between the exotic ports of Manitowoc, WI and Ludington, MI:

$149 per person with stateroom. No meals or refreshments included. No pools, no rock climbing wall. Oh yeah, even on an 80 degree day it's going to feel about 60 on the deck.

Sounds to me like so few people choose the Badger these days that they have no choice but to charge these outrageous fares to squeeze out a profit. Don't even get me started on the ridiculous Lake Express out of Milwaukee. I'll still drive through Chicago on my way to see my parents thank you very much.

I can give you a pretty good approximation. We were in 3610 on Enchantment, which is above and just slighty aft of 2589. I don't recall having any issues with engine noise.

If Sergiy is still on the ship, I hope you get him as your waiter. I would say he was the highlight of our experience.