Schnookster

Baltimore is a great port, and Vision is perfect for cruising from cooler to warmer climates due to the motorized glass roof of the Solarium. The Centrum is more open to the seas than the Promenande on Adventure. The ships sails under the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and finally, through the gap “tunnel portion” of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. 
 

Upon debarkation, please indulge in a Maryland Jumbo Lump Crabcake, not to be confused with a “Maryland Style Crabcake”…those who know are nodding their heads right now.

I have a 14 day Carribbean booked in January. I used to work for British Airways so have travelled extensively and can use my staff travel. I liked this itinerary as you have an overnight in Bermuda. I used to love going there when I was flying. Thanks for your comment.

Also, if you arrive in Baltimore early, you have the opportunity to experience some Bristish/American history very close by: Fort McHenry, Annapolis.

Any chance you (or other members) know the MDR menu order for the five-days? We're attempting to figure out which night to schedule Chops.

I would predict an older crowd but Grandeur is a great ship with a great crew so you should have a great time if you don't worry so much about who else on board. Just chill out and enjoy and make your own great time.

I agree. Make your fun. Crown Viking Lounge is great at night, go have drinks in the casino, South Pacific Lounge for Kareoke. During the day, make your own party at the aft of the promenade deck (5?), trivia in the Schnooner Bar, grab beverages at the pool bar and take them to deck 11 observatory.

IMO, one can never be overdressed, but certainly can look underdressed. My husband and I enjoy the opportunity to dress up once in a while and always dress nicely for dinner. My husband doesn't wear a full suit, but definitely a jacket and tie for the MDR and upscale restaurants.

You have not had a crabcake until you try the ones at Boxhill in Harford County.

Just awarded the Best in Baltimore

My sister, who used to live in Belair and now lives in Florida, would agree with you. Every time she comes to Maryland, she HAS to get a crab cake from Boxhil Pizzeria.

Post-cruise lunch at G&M's.

 

 

 

Tossed salad - why not

 

 

Crab dip - delicious!

 

 

Double crab cake platter

 

 

Verdict- G&M's crab cake was very good but a little dry and had some kind of herb that I didn't care for. Would I get it again? Heck, yeah. But if I had to choose, I would take Pappas crab cake in a heartbeat. Pappas blew me away and is now my official "go to" crab cake place.

Have them broil the crab cakes next time so they don't dry them out.

Thanks everyone for following along and for all the great comments. I'll have some more crab cakes photos later on after our lunch at G&M Restaurant and then some final thoughts tomorrow or Saturday. Thanks again!

 

I can see you from my office window! I love looking out at the Harbor and seeing the ship that I plan to cruise on in October. Enjoy G&M's (mmm - crab cakes!) and the rest of your time in (HOT) Bawlmore, Hon!

Going on the same cruise our 20th wedding anniversary in October; any chance you could post the menu order so we know when to schedule specialty dining.

Sprint' date=' this person is upset and hasn't even been on the ship yet. Yes, DCL does allow return cruisers and those who book at concierge level to schedule excursions, nursery hours (for infants), adult dining, spa, etc. before first timers. But many of those things continue to be available even after boarding the ship. Yes, there are a few things that "sell out." These include the Royal Tea and the cabanas on Castaway Cay...but even those may open up during the on line booking period or after boarding as some guests may regret having booked at the high cost these command.

 

You can do NONE of these things and still have an amazing cruise. OP was having a rant because she didn't get everything she wanted. OK. How often in life do you get EVERYTHING you want? Honestly, we've had DCL cruises that were better than others, but we've never had a BAD DCL cruise. Don't let a rant from someone who hasn't even boarded the ship yet deter you.[/quote']

 

I am getting ready to go on my second Disney cruise next week. I agree - the ship is AMAZING, the food is really good, there is plenty to do and we don't plan to do any extras, because there is plenty to do without booking excursions with DCL. I also agree with those that advise to book your own excursions, although you should do your homework to ensure a quality excursion. We are two 50+ adults, going with two 60+ adults - no kids - so, our situation may be a little different than some. But, there is PLENTY to do that is included with the price of the cruise.

 

I have read the forums over the years and when individuals complain about cruises, I definitely take it with a grain of salt. I have yet to be disappointed in any cruises that I've been on. I think some have expectations that can sometimes be unrealistic, IMO. The trick to a good vacation is to relax and enjoy it and not feel like you have to schedule every second. Just let it happen and be flexible.