Sea-Bos

On 2/17/2023 at 4:33 AM, fudge said:

Day 14

Today we are in St Lucia.

Castries has a population of 20,000 it is the capitol and the largest city of Saint Lucia.

US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted.

The official language is English and Saint Lucian Creole.

Places of interest: Castries central market, it is the largest open market in Castries with over 300 regular vendors and 100 or more local sellers on market days.

Mount fortune, originally known as Morne Dubuc. A fort was constructed here by the French in 1784.

Pidgeon Island National Park, was once a navel base for the British in 1778.

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and mineral bath. There are two beaches on the Island.

There is duty free shopping where the ship docks in Pointe Seraphene, China, perfume and leather goods are found there.

An early start for Mrs Fudge, she has booked a horse-riding trip independently, she left the ship at 08.15 to catch a pre booked taxi to the stables. It’s a 3-hour horse ride including a beach ride, Mr Fudge has a quiet morning.

We are now right at the end of our cruise. Overall, we have enjoyed it, yes there have been a few minor hiccups but we addressed them at the time to our satisfaction.

The most memorable part of the cruise is the people we have met, really friendly, we exchanged information and enjoyed their company at the bars and restaurants.

Last evening, we went to the show with the guest entertainer, she is very funny, lots of audience participation. The only down side was that quite a few people entered the theater looking like they have just come off the beach.  Now, we don’t preach that people should “dress up” for the theater however, Seabourn state smart casual, this was certainly not the case.

Mr Fudge politely spoke with the hotel director about this. He said that on a 7-day Caribbean cruise, headquarters have instructed the crew to relax the dress code whatever that means?

He was very apologetic and said there was very little he could do about it. Even worse the cruise director asked if we were embarrassed at being overdressed, my jaw dropped hearing that comment! 

Yesterday, the ship docked so it was an easy walk to the shopping mall, after breakfast which we ate on the pool deck we took a leisurely stroll in the sunshine. There was a mixture of high-end shops and also cheap shops.

The afternoon was spent topping up our tan, the pool deck was very busy. There was an unfortunate incident involving a guest complaining about slow service, he was haranguing one of the pool deck staff which was very uncomfortable to listen to, the guest if you can call him that was shouting loudly, finger pointing and was very aggressive towards the crew member. It was so bad that the crew member asked if I would be a witness to the incident, I had no hesitation in supporting him.

Sadly, this is my last post, I would like to thank all who have replied, it’s been a fantastic cruise, Seabourn once again delivered the goods.   

So, onto our next cruise in September, a change of cruise line Regent. We fly to Vancouver, spend three nights there, we then sail to Alaska and on to Japan.

For those already sailing or due to sail, safe travels, we will raise a glass of champagne to you all.

 

 

Such a wonderful journal!  We are heading to some of the same islands the first of April.  I hope you might have insight as my husband saw a news story and so I obsessively researched it.  Did you notice an abundance of seaweed?  He is concerned the beaches will be closed….

cheers to your next journey. 
chloie

1 hour ago, crewsweeper said:

Link only pick up 2019 dates????

Sent wrong link.  Sorry.  Try this one. 

Sargassum Monitoring® 2023 - Google My Maps

Here is the link I was using:

SEAS Forecasting (seas-forecast.com)

Our islands are too tiny to be mentioned but I am just going to have to tell my husband "You do what you do and you like it"  Or something like that.   If he listened to baseball instead of intellectual news he wouldn't be worried.  lol 

On 1/29/2023 at 8:56 AM, jbrinkm said:

I won't link it here because it is behind a paywall (although everyone should be able to see a few free articles each month if you want to go find it yourself!)

In National Geographic this month -

Title: Can science solve the seaweed problem on Mexican beaches? A macroalgae called sargassum is spoiling coastlines from Cancún to Tulum. Here’s how researchers and resorts are combating the noxious bloom.

 

The article explains what it is, how much of a problem it is for the tourist industry in Mexico, and points out how much it is costing resorts to try to manage it. The Mexican Navy has been enlisted to help with it!

 

Paragraph explaining cause for increase:

"For now, according to scientists, the only way to stop the sargassum would need to begin upstream, says Rodríguez-Martínez. “Countries need to reduce the nutrients dumped into the sea and take actions to mitigate climate change.” But with Brazil continuing to convert rainforests into fertilizer-demanding farms, the blooms may be here to stay."

 

The article goes on to share some research projects that are ongoing that could use the sargassum for some beneficial purpose, like fertilizer, as a substitute for plastic to make certain items, or soap. 

Thank you for the information.  Now we just hope that it won't hit all of the Southern Caribbean islands we are going.  But if it does, we will still have fun. 🙂

On 12/26/2022 at 9:52 AM, Cool Breeze Cruiser said:

I will. Our cruise is going to San Juan, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua & St. Thomas. We are going with Calabaza Sailing again in Barbados. It is one of the best excursions we have ever done!

We are going on 4/1 to these ports. Would love to hear anything 😁

On 12/22/2021 at 7:47 AM, scottca075 said:

 

If it is the Best Western Plus Hotel At The Convention Center, it is fine. If it is the Best Western of Long Beach on Long Beach Blvd, it is in a sketchy neighborhood. And it looks like the Golden Sails Hotel is no longer a Best Western, so it probably isn't that one.

We stayed at the one off Long Beach years ago and it was fine and then a couple of years ago and it was so sketchy. Did make a street taco run and it was worth it.  Check with the latest Covid issues before booking for a shuttle. 

Has anyone booked a car service from LAX and area to the port? Will probably look into that.

On 11/6/2021 at 7:36 AM, BabySarge said:

So, here's another lesson learned regarding these self test kits from the Optum Store (or probably any of the Abbott Binax Self Test kits) - don't order them too early.  We are not cruising until early January 2022 but being the obsessive pre-planner that I am I went ahead and purchased the $99.99 Abbott BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test with eMed Telehealth Services - 3 Pack for Travel from the Optum Store on October 31st so we would have them and I could check that worry off my list.  

 

I was, and am, aware of the fact that there is a warning on the Optum Store site that" Currently available test kits may expire as early as December 23, 2021."  and that also per the site "the FDA has approved a 3-month expiration extension for all test kits".  What I wasn't expecting when I ordered my kits though on October 31st was that the expiration date of the kits would be September 9th an expiration date prior to my even ordering; I foolishly thought the expiration date would be closer to the time frame I was actually ordering the kit or even after that date.  Stupid me!!

 

So, that's $99.99 we are out and can't get back because these test kits cannot be returned.  I shall try again in early December and cross all my fingers and toes that the expiration date on my next set of test kits will work out better than this last series.  I'm really going to enjoy that drinks package by the time I finally get on the cruise I can tell you that much!!

It sounds like they sent you outdated tests? Call them on it. We called because ours weren’t here and they said they wouldn’t be so we ordered from Medex and then the ones from optum showed up.  We ended up receiving 15 kits and paid for 6. 🤷🏼‍♀️  Call. It helped us 🤷🏼‍♀️ Good luck! 

On 10/31/2021 at 6:26 AM, BabySarge said:

Thanks so much for answering, eases my mind quite a bit.  My only remaining question is does it have to be done using a smart phone or can it be done using a laptop computer?  I have a smartphone and am "okay" doing most things on it and while my husband does have a smartphone he doesn't even know how to text on it and uses it mostly as a paperweight (honestly, he does.  I have to remind him to even turn it on.)

 

Again, thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions; it is really appreciated.

 

Anne

We only used our phone for the app.  The entire test we did on the computer. I would look under the question section and it should tell you (app for the computer 🤷🏼‍♀️).  I am not a total tech person. 

1 hour ago, BabySarge said:

Might I ask which of the online tests did you use?  Is there only the one company Optum?  Were you able to use one proctor for more than one person doing the test or did each person doing the test have to log in separately and have their own individual proctor?  Sorry for so many questions but I've had a hard time finding information on this and am major stressing about it (in case you couldn't tell).  We are driving to the Fort Lauderdale from Delaware and will have to do the test along the way at one of our overnight stops using hotel internet which hopefully will be "secure" and strong enough for what needs to be done.  Any info you are willing to share would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks, Anne

Happy to help. My husband was freaking out too.  I ended up ordering 6 tests because I was told 3 weren’t coming. Long story, we ended up with 15 tests (but only paid for 6).  You can order your tests through optum or through Medex.  They are the exact same test.  If you have an HSA, it might pay for it. 
 

I know that each one has to be proctored separately.  I called the number. Was instructed to take the sleeve off, show them the code, open the box… they are very thorough with you showing the proctor each step.  That being said, it is super easy.  My husband and I both have phones so we downloaded the app separately and logged in to separate accounts.  You might want to google that.  
 

If you are really nervous, order an extra test.  It is an extra $30 or something but the peace of mind knowing you have the backup is worth it. 
 

We were stressed about so many things and when we arrived at the port and went through embarkation everything was so relaxing (I may have made fun of my husband).  
 

if you have more questions, I will be happy to try and answer them. 
 

Chloie

Do the online test.  So easy.  We were freaking out about it too.  The main thing is to make sure that you do the proctored exam.  When you hear about tests not being accepted it is when the person did the non-proctored test.

On 7/30/2021 at 12:37 PM, LUVTRAVEL6 said:

We are sailing on the Edge on July 31st, and we have not received this email.  

 

Just the email reminder this morning to complete our online health screening...

 

The email only shows the same information as before, testing only required for unvaccinated.  Maybe it's for later sailings?  I don't know how they could accomplish this for tomorrow's sailing?

Happened because last weeks sailing had 9(? Roughly) people test positive and I believe they were all vaccinated. Implemented within 12 hours or so. Don’t know how to test just why. 

5 hours ago, Babr said:

Pre-cruise testing is required even for the fully vaccinated for sailings through Sept. 6.

 

I don’t know that a reason was given, but it is reasonable to think that the recent increase in infections influenced the decision. 

My guess is that many of the passengers testing positive have been vaccinated (on other ships as well).  Vaccinated people can still get sick, just not nearly as sick.  
 

We sail at the end of September but may cancel.  Many of the ports have restrictions and I am sure as Delta Spurs an increase in cases, restrictions will also increase, most through the ports.  As it currently stands, we won’t be able to go to shore unless with an X excursion in Barbados, St Lucia and St Kitts (I think).  I know that Aruba has also instituted stronger regulations but I don’t know how that will effect cruise travelers. 
 

🤞🏻 And I am grateful for the 48-hour cancellation policy. 

4 hours ago, cltnccruisers said:

We're right behind you on 8/27 to the ABCs.  Can't wait.

We almost booked the ABC but then we ran across the 12-night itinerary and booked that in September.  
 

Favorite ports ever....1) Curaçao. 2) Aruba.  If you choose off the beaten path we have done some cool things....

3 hours ago, Turtles06 said:

3 hours ago, Turtles06 said:

 

LOL at the longevity of this thread!  😊  I hope your Sept. cruise is a go!!   Since my last comment above (in Nov. 2019), we returned to Antigua for a second visit (on another transit of the Panama Canal).   I just want to mention the fabulous local place, Rincon Tipico, where we had lunch (recommended on the CC thread below).  It's not really a tourist spot (at least it wasn't in early 2020), so I was happy to have read about it.   Here's the thread with the info:

 

 

LOL at the longevity of this thread!  😊  I hope your Sept. cruise is a go!!   Since my last comment above (in Nov. 2019), we returned to Antigua for a second visit (on another transit of the Panama Canal).   I just want to mention the fabulous local place, Rincon Tipico, where we had lunch (recommended on the CC thread below).  It's not really a tourist spot (at least it wasn't in early 2020), so I was happy to have read about it.   Here's the thread with the info:

 

I guess Nov 2019 is really that long ago. We did partial transit in October. Thank you for the recommendation. We prefer to go away from everything tourist. This cruise we are going to 7 ports we haven’t visited: Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada. St Kitts, St Croix and St Lucia.  Any recommendations for those ports would be great!!!

On 11/9/2019 at 7:32 PM, Turtles06 said:

 

This is a good tip.  But you resurrected a thread that has been inactive for four years! 🙃

And I am reading this 2 years later (hope that is 👌) yeah! We go sept 2021 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻

On 5/21/2021 at 5:36 AM, Ken the cruiser said:

For folks booked on the longer Equinox cruises in August and beyond, good news appears to be coming from the CDC.

 

CDC Set to Approve Itineraries Longer Than 7 Days - Cruise Industry News | Cruise News

🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻12 days in September 😁

6 hours ago, 39august said:

Whoops. I don't know. Never looked for 7 night cruises. I just leapt to the conclusion that these were new listings. Guess I was wrong. Mods, please remove topic. 

Makes me excited anyway. We are 12 day on Equinox on 9/26🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻

15 minutes ago, Schoifmom said:

 

I don't really see why this bothers you.  If you had read all of the documentation related the first cancellation, then you would have known that cruises up to and including 5 days only gets $300 OBC, and then you chose to book a shorter cruise when you rebooked.

Idk🤷🏼‍♀️  Just felt with loyalty it should have been the original offer. Not the$ just the principal. Hadn’t read every single line on it. It’s all good because we are opting to wait which is the better option for us. The 5-day Cruise was our “trial” to see how the new experience will be. Instead, we will see how it is for everyone and go on a cruise we really want, not a “trial.” 

1 hour ago, LaRue1975 said:

When you call Carnival again, ask to speak to someone in the Resolution Department. They would have the most power to give you the $600 OBC from the first cancelled cruise which I think is fair. When I called today about a cancellation that got screwed up they transferred me to the Resolution Department to get it straightened out. 
 

Like yours, the cruise was a double reschedule from April 4th to July 25th to March 27th. I had two cabins booked and my daughter’s family decided they don’t want to cruise for the foreseeable future. They were able to refund all payments for their cabin back to my CC, including the FCC generated from the first cancelled cruise and the non refundable deposit for the March cruise. They also cancelled my cabin and moved the FCC and $600 OBC to an existing booking I have for May 8, 2021. I had already called the Fun Shops to move the Cheers package I purchased during the 20% off sale to the May cruise. 
 

It’s worth a shot and I think it would be a smart move by Carnival to encourage you to rebook rather than request a refund. Good luck! 

Thank you. I didn’t know who to talk to and was frustrated.  Everyone I spoke with said “I agree, but I can’t do anything about it.”  I will keep you posted!  
 

I think our last Carnival Cruise was Nov 2018 (?) We went to the Panama Canal last fall on Holland. We had a young, healthy crowd for Holland. 😉

1 hour ago, Bgcruising said:

You know, when I was booking from a rebook the other day, the agent told me that the rebooked reverted back to the the original. In other words, original cruise cancelled, rebooked cancelled, but the rebook of the rebook no longer existed, that the se ond rebook was linked to the original cruise. 

 

Maybe you want to call again?

Was it Carnival? Just annoyed and going to wait.  This was just a “trial cruise.” Prefer the Caribbean and if we wait we can see how it shakes out. 

Thank you all. Part warning, part whining. Talked to 2 agents. Going to try and talk my husband into a train trip. We have awhile to decide and I really want to see how things transpire.  

Train 🤷🏼‍♀️ New experience and we can do it now.

We had a 7-day booked for July. Cancellation= $600 On board credit.  We then booked a 5-day.  It was cancelled and our OBC for our next, 7-day cruise is $300 based on previous cruise (which I may not book).  So, we have lost $300 in OBC.  IDK. Makes me a little hesitant to book again.  Opinions?  (It isn't the money but the principal.)

We had a 7-day booked for July. Cancellation= $600 On board credit.  We then booked a 5-day.  It was cancelled and our OBC for our next, 7-day cruise is $300 based on previous cruise (which may not be booked).  So, we have lost $300 in OBC.  IDK. Makes me a little hesitant to book again.   

SO, we are looking into booking our 3rd cruise on Carnival during the pandemic.  The first canceled cruise was a 7-day Caribbean and we were offered a $600 on board credit. We then booked a 5-day going to Cabo (I am not thrilled to cruise but my husband is going crazy).  It was canceled.  We are re-booking a 7-day cruise and only have $300 on-board credit so we essentially lost $300 in credit. I feel like canceling and going on different line.  Anyone have this problem?  Am I on the wrong board?