Aramis1932

I had to show my passport along with my green card to customs/immigration upon arriving back to Fort Lauderdale from a cruise.

I'm a TA and don't have any particular relationship with HAL.

Back in the '90's the upsell offers would come either by phone or fax and there didn't seem to be any rhyme or reason (past passenger or first time on HAL).

These days, they come by email and usually within the last two weeks before departure. Naturally, I receive more offers for the larger ships and have received up to three or four within a two week span for the same sailing with the upsell amount dropping as it gets closer to the sail date. Sometimes even up to the day before sailing. In a few cases the passengers were surprised with a nice upgrade (for no additional cost) at the port.

I don't think it makes any difference in receiving the upsells whether you book directly through HAL or with a TA. I do think it helps, at the initial booking, to "tick" the box asking if you are willing to accept an upgrade (I can't remember the exact wording).

Terry,

Thank you, very much for taking the time to post your wonderful trip report. I just found this from a link on the Crystal Cruises board!

I found it particularly interesting to read about your experiences and thoughts on the SILVER CLOUD as we sailed her to the Baltics during her first year. I recognized the fitness center as being an original observation lounge. The SILVER CLOUD was the perfect size for docking close to the Grand Hotel in downtown Stockholm and across the street from the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. This may not be possible anymore due to the increase in cruise ships over the years.

I enjoyed your notes and thoughts on Norway as I lived there for six years in the '80's. It was the best place I ever lived and I miss the food especially at Christmas (Jul).