RCCL Great Bay Beach Experience Excursion - location of included beach chairs?

[rm1247]

I'm trying to decide if it is worth it to book the Great Bay Beach Experience Excursion or if we should just do it on our own (I know the water taxi is right off the pier and the beach is right across from the ship). If you are familiar with the RCCL excursion, can you answer these questions?

 

It includes the taxi ride, but says the excursion is only 3 hours. Do we have to return at a set time or is the return trip good for anytime?

 

What is the location of the included beach chairs and umbrella?

 

I've read on these boards that you can take the water taxi for $7 round trip and rent 2 beach chairs, an umbrella, and some drinks for $25. That would put my total cost for on our own at $39, while the RCCL excursion costs $54. The convenience plus being able to use OBC is appealing, but not if choosing our own hotel location and return time is superior.

 

I appreciate any suggestions!