Cruise planning "meeting", what should we cover?

[Jessie2013]

We are sailing on the Freedom in mid-December with my 4 year old son & my in-laws. Hubby & I have cruised before but my in-laws are having a difficult time envisioning the concept of a cruise experience. They have never really traveled much (we took them to Florida with us a few years ago for the first time in their lives), so even trying to compare it to an all-inclusive resort on water isn't helpful to them, as they've never been to such a place.

 

We have a very busy few months ahead of us, so we are all getting together tomorrow to have a cruise planning "meeting". What kind of things should we go over (aside from the obvious- excursions) with them? As a couple who have cruised many times before, it's tough for me to think of the things that a newbie would need/want to know when they don't have specific questions- they are just totally clueless :)

 

A few questions that I have related to our planning:

 

On the freedom- what is open for embarkation day for lunch?

 

Which specialty restaurant is preferred on FOS?

 

I've never been on FOS and have only cruised RCCL once, so I'm sure there will be plenty for me to learn! Thanks!

[Clarea]

Embarkation day lunch would be Windjammer (buffet), Cafe Promenade, and Sorrento's.

 

One thing I'd go over is items that are not allowed onboard, such as irons, etc.

[A Pisces]

I would cover packing, so they know what sort of clothes to bring and how much, where to store the suit cases, and how small the cabins are, so they aren't shocked! :D

 

Also that they won't need to bring any food with them. My mother was always bringing crackers, thinking she would be hungry, which never was the case.

 

I always get asked about money. How much cash to bring. Let them know that ATM's aren't really a good option.

 

Also, they can feel safe about keeping their valuables in their safe. They won't need to carry them with them, around the ship. Also, just bring what they will need on shore, so nothing gets stolen.

 

Have them notify their credit card companies, for the ones they will be bringing, and don't plan to use them on shore in a foreign country, since there will be fees on most CC.

Edited September 26, 2014 by A Pisces
Another thought

[njmomof2]

Freedom has Chops, Portofino and Johnny Rockets. I think that people like different ones for different reasons. We did Chops in August and really liked it, but I love Portofino as well, just don't do it since I no longer eat pasta and starch much. You can pull up the new Chops menu and Portofino's and let them take a look and see if either appeals to them.

 

JR is a burger joint. All you can eat for the cover charge (not including soda or milkshakes). We like it for lunch one day.

 

Find out how they want to spend their sea days (whether sitting outside in the sun or shade, maybe joining in at trivia or watching karaoke, doing part of a ship tour) so that you can help them plan their time. I'm sure you can find recent compasses on line to review with them so they have an idea of what is offered daily.

[PuterMonkey]

My thought is, that if they aren't really seasoned travelers, not to bombard them with too much information and scheduling before they go. Excursions, sure, but some of the fun is just exploring the ship and deciding to try something on a whim. Sometimes what's great is nothing more than lounging on a deck chair all day. I'd stick with what to pack and maybe showing them where their cabin is and some excursion options, and letting the rest just happen.

[Fat Paul]

Make sure that they have all needed travel documents (ie: passports) in order. Also any needed medications. It's good to have a hard copy of emergency phone numbers that might be needed. Ask them if they have any specific questions, concerns or fears and handle accordingly. I bet that they will have a wonderful time. Enjoy your cruise.

[At Sea 4Ever]

I have traveled with large groups many of times before. We always make it clear that no one should feel obligated to do activities or be somewhere if that's not what they would like to do. It's everyone's vacation and everyone should be happy. Lay out dinner plans, excursions and plans for the islands, and what the plans are for sea days. Some people are happy laying by a pool all day while others like to be active. If you have plans of sending your little one to the kids program give your in laws a heads up. Also discuss nightlife. Some may want to go to the shows while others rather to hit the casino or a bar. Maybe show them the rccl website so they can get familiar or sign them up for Cruise Critic!

 

 

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[mark290]

I have traveled with large groups many of times before. We always make it clear that no one should feel obligated to do activities or be somewhere if that's not what they would like to do. It's everyone's vacation and everyone should be happy. Lay out dinner plans, excursions and plans for the islands, and what the plans are for sea days. Some people are happy laying by a pool all day while others like to be active. If you have plans of sending your little one to the kids program give your in laws a heads up. Also discuss nightlife. Some may want to go to the shows while others rather to hit the casino or a bar. Maybe show them the rccl website so they can get familiar or sign them up for Cruise Critic!

 

 

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If you sign them up for Cruise Critic they will be petrified they will be doing everything wrong and offending everyone onboard.

[bouhunter]

I would cover packing, so they know what sort of clothes to bring and how much, where to store the suit cases, and how small the cabins are, so they aren't shocked! :D

 

Also that they won't need to bring any food with them. My mother was always bringing crackers, thinking she would be hungry, which never was the case.

 

I always get asked about money. How much cash to bring. Let them know that ATM's aren't really a good option.

 

Also, they can feel safe about keeping their valuables in their safe. They won't need to carry them with them, around the ship. Also, just bring what they will need on shore, so nothing gets stolen.

 

Have them notify their credit card companies, for the ones they will be bringing, and don't plan to use them on shore in a foreign country, since there will be fees on most CC.

 

Excellent points!:) Especially about cabin size. Unless they're in a Junior Suite or larger, make sure they know the room won't be as big as a tpyical motel room.

 

Go over the Seapass system, remind them that the only places on the ship that take cash are guest services and the casino:D

Edited September 26, 2014 by bouhunter

[nolimits]

Our first cruise we always felt we where missing something,We always saw the crowd leaving events, So we recommend now to new cruisers to read the cruise compass every nite to plan next day.

[bouhunter]

Embarkation day lunch would be Windjammer (buffet), Cafe Promenade, (limited sandwiches cookies etc, and salads)and Sorrento's (pizza).

 

One thing I'd go over is items that are not allowed onboard, such as irons, etc.

 

See comments above for Cafe Promenade and Sorrento's. Beware, depending on when you go there, the first day for lunch at the buffet can be complete chaos and downright unpleasant due to the crowds. We always board pretty much as soon as the ship opens up and the buffet is pleasant and relatively quiet. A couple hours later it can sometimes be a place to avoid at all costs.:rolleyes:

Edited September 26, 2014 by bouhunter

[emilygrace]

I would emphasize the fact that on a cruise you have the choice to do as much or as little as you want. You can pick and choose your activities or you can find a quiet spot to just sit and read or people watch, if that's what you want to do. It's all about options on a cruise.

 

When we do cruises with friends we sometimes only see them at dinner. Otherwise, everyone goes their own way during the day. Your in-laws might want to stick close to you the first couple of days (or maybe the whole cruise!), but hopefully after that they will strike out on their own and explore the ship and what it has to offer.

 

Have a really fun cruise, and I hope they get hooked!

[tlatrice]

My thought is, that if they aren't really seasoned travelers, not to bombard them with too much information and scheduling before they go. Excursions, sure, but some of the fun is just exploring the ship and deciding to try something on a whim. Sometimes what's great is nothing more than lounging on a deck chair all day. I'd stick with what to pack and maybe showing them where their cabin is and some excursion options, and letting the rest just happen.

 

I agree with this. On my first cruise I didn't know about the Compass or what activities were offered and it was GREAT finding those things out when I got there.

 

I also agree with this:

 

I have traveled with large groups many of times before. We always make it clear that no one should feel obligated to do activities or be somewhere if that's not what they would like to do. It's everyone's vacation and everyone should be happy.

[nik23]

We traveled with a group of friends and family, including my in-laws and great grandfather. I held a cruise planning trip as well. It was time to go over travel details and itinerary. I also supplied a packing list and a "must have" list.

 

 

Even with all the planning, my greatGF still managed to cause excitement on the first day by forgetting his wallet in the cab at drop-off at the pier! It was utter chaos. I got my bearings after a bit of craziness and decided to contact a rep in the terminal . Surprise, the rep had the wallet!! The cab driver returned it to the pier :)

So, my suggestion is to stress the importance keeping all important documents and cash in a safe place, and check twice that you have everything before leaving hotel, cabs, buses, etc.

[tlatrice]

Excellent points!:) Especially about cabin size. Unless they're in a Junior Suite or larger, make sure they know the room won't be as big as a tpyical motel room.

 

OMG! On my first cruise I remember walking in and thinking "Woah! This is SMALL! Well, I guess it CAN'T be too large on a ship." And I had a balcony cabin. LOL!!!

[ehfl]

I wouldn't try to overthink things too much. Chances are, you have a good idea about what things they might enjoy, so you can pick some of them, and also allow time for them to explore and discover on their own.

 

You probably have an idea of what excursions (if any) they might enjoy, and print out a list of those for them to look at. Remember it's OK if they go on one excursion and you go on another, or one party wants to stay on the ship while the other does something in port. Or think about doing separate guys/girls activities where the men go to the spa and the women go golfing, etc. (or vice versa!)

 

If they're in good health, consider excursions that take advantage of the ocean...something they can't do at home like snorkel, SNUBA, submarine, glass bottom boat, etc. Just don't try to do too much.

 

Don't forget the basics...swimsuits, hats, sunscreen, books/eReader/tablet. Give them some guidance on packing (morning, afternoon, evening, beach/pool). If they think motion sickness might be an issue, make sure to bring something for that as well.

 

It's important to let them know that its OK for them do do their own thing if they want. If you're show people and they're not, maybe they want to try the casino, or go dancing while you're at a show, etc.

 

If budgets allow, consider treating them to something nice. A spa or hair treatment. Maybe a modest piece of jewelry. A dinner at a specialty restaurant. Or surprise them with an upgrade them to a larger room than you might normally get. It will be a treat for them, and you can use the larger room to hang out and relax together. You could also order chocolates, fruit, or wine sent to their room to make it seem special.

Edited September 26, 2014 by ehfl

[cb at sea]

Too much info takes the fun of discovery away....let them experience things on their own, for the 1st time!

 

After all, it's just a vacation! You don't need too much prep to relax!!

 

Just make sure they have the ID's they'll need...and some money, and they're good to go!

[dacsmom]

I hope they will love the Freedom as much as I do. Shew has Chops and Portofino (soon to be replaced by Giovanni's Table.). Either one is excellent, so it all depends on if you like Italian or a Steakhouse. You can't go wrong with either choice.

 

I agree with many other posters, don't overwhelm them. Let them know what is prohibited from bringing on board. They probably have no idea what questions to ask yet. Are you doing the Eastern or Western itinerary?

[SeagoingMom]

Are they excited but unfamiliar, or are they fearful?

 

I do not know the age of your in-laws, but mature folks who have not traveled much are often concerned about health and safety. Food safety, sea sickness, noro, medical emergencies, port safety, even shipwreck.

 

Perhaps they should consider travel insurance, but make sure they understand what is covered (e.g. preexisting conditions.)

 

Let them know to take motion sickness meds before boarding. If they find out they don't need them they can discontinue.

 

Assure them that cruise lines do their best to keep pax healthy, but problems do occur, and remind them how best to protect themselves -- frequent handwashing!

 

Some folks unfamiliar with cruising (e.g. my sister :)) think they will feel "trapped" on board. Obviously you can reassure them that there is plenty to do, lots of access to open decks, and strict safety protocols, in case they are worried about this.

 

Some are concerned that they will not know how to handle being pampered! (My other sister feared this! :eek:) Of course you can assure them that cabin stewards and other wait staff will (hopefully) aim to please, but will not be intrusive or smarmy.

 

Hopefully your in-laws will have lots of their own questions and you will have lots of good answers!

[Jessie2013]

Thanks! This is so helpful! Lots of great talking points that I hadn't considered! I won't overwhelm them- but they want to know so they can feel more prepared. I think they feel the more prepared & confident they are, the less anxious they'll be.

 

This cruise is something they've always wanted to do & we have paid for it for them, for their retirement gift. We will be taking care of all the costs- so that isn't really a factor for them.

 

I hope they will love the Freedom as much as I do. Shew has Chops and Portofino (soon to be replaced by Giovanni's Table.). Either one is excellent, so it all depends on if you like Italian or a Steakhouse. You can't go wrong with either choice.

 

I agree with many other posters, don't overwhelm them. Let them know what is prohibited from bringing on board. They probably have no idea what questions to ask yet. Are you doing the Eastern or Western itinerary?

 

We are doing Eastern. MIL isn't very active and isn't a beach type person (and honestly, we're not either). Trying to look at options for CocoCay (cabana if we can get one for sure, otherwise, hanging out on the ship). St. Thomas- I want to go up to the top where the banana daiquiri place used to be- what's that called again? Such a beautiful view. And do some shopping- they will want to do the same. Still undecided about St. Maarten. Any suggestions with such a mixed age group that doesn't want to sit on a beach?

 

Are they excited but unfamiliar, or are they fearful?

 

I do not know the age of your in-laws, but mature folks who have not traveled much are often concerned about health and safety. Food safety, sea sickness, noro, medical emergencies, port safety, even shipwreck.

 

Perhaps they should consider travel insurance, but make sure they understand what is covered (e.g. preexisting conditions.)

 

Let them know to take motion sickness meds before boarding. If they find out they don't need them they can discontinue.

 

 

Thanks! Travel insurance is purchased, I have stockpiled motion sickness meds, but talking to them about that is a great idea anyway!

 

Are the US Virgin Islands considered "foreign" for credit card charging purposes? For some reason I thought I could charge there without issue?

[setsail]

Keep it simple and stress there is no reason to stay attached at the hip. There is so much to do on/off the ships, do what you feel comfortable doing and meet for dinner/ drink

[Grandprix]

Definitely include safety. There was chaos when the Concordia went down. Carry copies of id with you at all times. I will not let myself and family be herded indoors during an emergency. The idea that a ship in crisis will serenely go below the waves even keeled while all aboard go to their muster station in an orderly fashion is pure fantasy.

[panoramaofthepast]

If you can find a copy of Cruise Compass for them to see, it will give them and idea of what's available each day.

[RocketMan275]

You could show them some of the videos on the website or on YouTube.

[kadeycat]

Some very good ideas have been posted.

Definitley what to pack and the travel insurance is a must with older travelers. There were a few items I use frequently but would never have thought to pack.

 

We found that having the discussion about the style of the vacation is very important. They may feel that they must stay with you all the time or be more active than they want to. Just talking about the expectations helps everyone feel more at ease.

Some folks are comfortable being left alone to do as they please most of the day however others would not be so much.

 

Also given the choice to be as active or sedentary as they would like. They can decide how they are feeling each day. don't need to plan every second way ahead of time.

 

as long as they know what you have planned for your family unit, they can work with or around those plans.

Have a great trip!