Nov 2008 Group Cruise aboard the Emerald Princess: Southern Itinerary

[Sailfish]

 

Cruise Critic Group Cruise

 

Southern Caribbean Medley

2008 Cruise Critic Scuba Group Cruise

 

We will again be hosting an official Cruise Critic group cruise on November 10, 2008 aboard the beautiful Emerald Princess!

 

The Emerald Princess is the newest jewel in the Princess crown and everything you would expect from such a modern, luxurious ship. There are multiple dining options, including Traditional and Anytime Dining and specialty venues like the popular Sabatini's. There is the Lotus Spa with its myriad treatments. You'll enjoy watching Movies Under the Stars, and will have nearly 900 balcony staterooms from which to choose. And then, there are the ports of call….

 

This group cruise is a 10 night cruise that departs round trip from Fort Lauderdale. There are a total of 6 ports of call and three relaxing days at sea. By all accounts, this is a port intensive itinerary, but at closer examination, you'll notice you have a couple of days at the start of the cruise and at the end to get plenty of R&R. We will be offering a dive package for the certified scuba divers in the group in St. Thomas, Dominica, Grenada, Bonaire and Aruba. Princess Cays is Princess Cruises private island in the Bahamas - a beach day.

 

You will find time to recover from your journey to Florida at the start of the cruise. Our day spent in Princess Cays will be relaxing, with beach volleyball, snorkeling, a bbq lunch and other beach activities. The days at sea will allow you to acquaint yourself with the ship and enjoy the Emerald Princess' many amenities.

 

The ports of call have something for everyone; they are not your run of the mill Caribbean ports.

 

Aruba

Day 4 November 13, 2008

8am-5pm

 

Aruba is among the most southern of the Lesser Antilles islands (ABC islands = Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao) and is the farthest west of that group. It's a mere 15 miles (24 km) from the coast of Venezuela. On a clear day the Venezuelan mainland is visible from the south-eastern coast, and about 42 miles (67 km), or 20 minutes by airplane, to our nearest Caribbean neighbour, Curacao.

 

The oblong island is fronted by heavy surf and a jagged coast on our northern, windward side and by seven miles (11 km) of honey-colored sand beaches on the southern leeward coast. It's some 75 square miles (193 km2) in area and measures about five miles (8 km) at it widest point and 19 miles (30 km) in length. Aruba is an easy island to get around, the road systems are in good shape, well-marked,and, let's face it, it's hard to get lost for too long on an island where the coast is never more than 3 miles away.

 

Bonaire

Day 5 November 14, 2008

7am-2pm

 

Bonaire is a desert island - great for divers and snorkelers, but there isn't much else to do.

 

Bonaire's pristine reefs and diverse marine life are unique to the Caribbean. Because the waters around Bonaire have been protected by an actively managed marine park for the past 25 years, Bonaire today ranks amongst the top four best diving destinations in the world. The island's location in the south Caribbean gives it an arid climate with little rain fall; consequently, the waters are exceptionally clear of silt, calm, and diveable year round.

 

It is an ideal destination for underwater photographers. Water temperatures average a warm 78-84°F (25.6-28.9°C), with visibility averaging over 100 feet (30m), and frequently reaching up to 150 feet (50m). Bonaire Web Cams offers above and below water web cams plus complete current weather conditions.

 

 

Grenada

Day 6 November 15, 2008

12 noon - 7pm

 

A three-island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean, Grenada has approximately 100,000 habitants and is the most southern of the Windward Islands. Grenada and its two sister islands (Carriacou and Petite Martinique) are blessed with beautiful lush green vegetation and mountain top, acres of land covered with fragrant spice trees and rare tropical flowers. Bordered by stunning beaches, and dotted with beautiful towns, this island major source of export is nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, vanilla and cocoa. This is why Grenada second most popular name is The Isle of Spice.

 

In the interior of this volcanic island are rainforests watered by cascading rivers and waterfalls as well as one of the most stunning mountain lakes, the Grand Etang. The capital, St. George's, is widely held to be the most picturesque city in the Caribbean. Softly colored dockside warehouses and red-tiled roofs of traditional shops, surround its horseshoe-shaped harbor.

 

 

Dominica

Day 7 November 16, 2008

7am - 5pm

 

Dominica surges from the sea with soaring peaks that seem to be courting the heavens. Virgin flora covers these dramatic mountains, creating swaths of verdant landscapes. The residue of the fiery forces that created the island thousands of years ago, as part of the Caribbean Ring of Fire, bellows in several hot springs, valleys of steaming earth, and a boiling lake which is the second largest in the world. Along with geothermal wonders come natural coolants: hundreds of pristine rivers and streams web the island's lush terrain. Pure rainwater sets brooks and cascades into motion by rushing down picturesque cliffs.

 

 

St. Thomas

Day 8 November 17, 2008

8am - 6pm

 

We will be in St. Thomas all day, but because we have a mandatory US Immigration check before we disembark, count on it taking at least an hour or two.

 

Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas is the capital of the United States Virgin Islands and the most popular cruise port in the Caribbean. Charlotte Amalie (named for a Danish Queen) is where the ships dock and the white and pastel houses are heavily sprinkled against a background of emerald hills. Colorful sloops dock along the waterfront, and a few steps back, down alleyways lined with old Danish warehouse buildings, is a world-famous

shopping center.

 

 

Princess Cays

Day 10 November 19, 2008

9am - 4pm

 

This is Princess Cruises's Private island and no scuba diving will be offered here. It is a great place to relax and enjoy a day at the beach.

 

Itinerary

 

Day 1 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Day 2 - At Sea

Day 3 - At Sea

Day 4 - Aruba

Day 5 - Bonaire

Day 6 - Grenada

Day 7 - Dominica

Day 8 - St. Thomas

Day 9 - At Sea

Day 10 -Princess Cays

Day 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

[Sailfish]

Group Amenities

 

As a member of the 2008 Scuba Cruise, all members will have at their disposal a group forum at Cruise Critic, where members can share information, obtain updates and read the group newsletter. A roll call forum will also be available to members interested in getting to know one another. Group tee shirts will be made available to members at an additional cost (usually for under $20 including shipping) prior to the cruise.

 

A brief Meet & Greet party will be coordinated at Sail Away by the group leader; all members are encouraged to come, but there is no obligation to participate in any of the group’s activities.

 

Those members who are scuba certified will also have the benefit of being able to dive together at five ports of call. A short, albeit mandatory Pre-Dive Meeting will be scheduled for the first day at sea.

 

In addition, members will receive the following:

• $50pp ship board credit for first and second passenger only
  
• 1 hour open bar cocktail party, drinks only
  
• Cruise Critic Goodlies

[Sailfish]

Pricing & Booking Information

 

Payment Information

 

A deposit of $450pp is due at the time of booking.

Final Payment is due on July 25, 2008

There is a $50 per cabin Cancellation Fee

 

Johna at CruCon Cruise Outlet is our group agent and will be happy to answer any questions you may have about pricing and availability. She can be reached at 800-493-6609.

 

CruCon Cruise Outlet has been in business for eleven years and is a registered and bonded agency with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). They are fully staffed with accredited and master cruise counselors, so you’re not sacrificing any service or expertise for your low price. Once booked, your cruise price will be locked in and will never go up. However, unlike other cruise lines, it is to your advantage to monitor pricing, as Princess will often re-price your booking to reflect price drops or resident promotions. If you see a lower price, simply call Johna and let her know.

 

If you happen to be holding onto Princess Cruise Lines Future Cruise Credits (which you would have had to purchase onboard a Princess ship for $100pp), make sure you use them. Not only will you get the additional shipboard credit of $75pp-$100pp from Princess, your FCC will qualify as your deposit! Johna, our group agent will be happy to assist you with this, however, please don’t hesitate to email Suzi, the group leader, if you have any questions.

 

 

10 Night Southern Caribbean Medley

2008 Cruise Critic Scuba Group Cruise

 

Inside cabin category JJ is $985 per person

Obstructed ocean view category FF is $1,139 per person

Non obstructed ocean view category EE is $1,219 per person

Balcony category BC is $1,465 per person

Suite category AC is $1,729 per person

 

Third and Fourth Passenger rates (Subject to change at any time and based on availability)

Inside cabin category JJ is $637 per person

Obstructed ocean view category FF is $725 per person

Balcony category BC is $809 per person

Mini suite category AC is $895 per person

 

Rates are based on double occupancy and include port charges and government fees. A $25 CruCon cancellation penalty applies to all bookings. For more information, please contact the group agent.

 

Don’t forget you can use your FCC to book this group cruise.

 

Final payment is due July 25, 2008.

 

Cruise Critic Group Amenities

 

 

$50pp ship board credit for first and second passenger only

1 hour cocktail party, drinks only

[Sailfish]

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

I understand this group cruise is Cruise Critic's annual Scuba Cruise. Do I have to be a diver to go? Will I feel out of place as a non-diver?

 

Absolutley not! A little more than half of the people booked into our scuba groups are non-divers and have a great time! Some book primarily to take advantage of our group rates and the shipboard credit as well as the group amenities. Some have friends and family who are certified scuba divers and find a cruise vacation to be a great way to satisfy both the divers and the non-divers in the family. While others are drawn to the group because they are interested in snorkeling. What ever your interest, this group cruise will be very much like any cruise you would book on your own, except it comes with some very nice group amenities!

 

Who is the group leader and the people who join the group?

 

Suzi, aka Sailfish, is the group leader and has been leading groups for many years - began coordinating volleyball cruises in 1994 for her husband's local adult volleyball league. Over the years, their tri-annual volleyball cruises evolved to include competative play aboard the ships and land based volleyball tournaments. In 2006, they had close to 80 members aboard the Carnival Pride!

 

It was only natural for Suzi to coordinate a scuba cruise, as she is an avid scuba diver. Just about all of her vacations include diving, so when she was offered the chance to put together a Scuba Cruise for Cruise Critic in 2005, she jumped at the chance.

 

Suzi and her husband live and work in Northern California. Because she works in education and enjoys a modified year round work calendar it allows Suzi and her husband to travel during off-peak times.

 

Cruise Critic Scuba Groups generally consist of people in the 30-50 year old age group (give or take 7-10 years) who share an interest in diving and snorkeling. The group has both newly certified folks as well as very experienced divers. The group is a good cross section of society, but many divers in the group tend to be professional folks with limited vacation time, often traveling with non-diving significant others, so a cruise to good diving destinations seem to be a big draw. They tend to dive with the group, but maintain their privacy much of the time; meaning they prefer to enjoy the company of their non-diving traveling companions most of the time.

 

We do encourage the divers to get to know one another over the course of the cruise and quite a few get together for drinks and dinner. But as the group leader, I respect everyone's privacy and make every effort to not over-structure the time spent with the group.

 

A significant number of our members are not what one would consider part of the online cruise community. In other words, they are not people who frequent cruise message boards, participate in roll call forums or are active members of any cruise related website. They usually find out about the scuba cruise by searching online and only log onto the group forum to obtain cruise related information and dive updates.

 

A smaller percentage are people like you who are active members of Cruise Critic who do enjoy participating in the online community. These are the folks that will be more inclined to participate in Roll Call Forums and leave replies on threads. They often are our non-diving members. Both groups interract quite well once on the ship and those who enjoy the planning and social aspects of Cruise Critic will have the added advantage of getting to know some of the members.

 

How can I get more information about this group cruise?

 

We have available a Scuba Group Cruise Brochure in WORD. It contains all the information you will find at the group forum in an easy printable form that also includes pictures.

 

If you would like us to send you this brochure, please email the group leader at scubacruise2008@yahoo.com and place Scuba Cruise Brochure Request on the subject line and the brochure will be attached to your reply.

 

What makes Cruise Critic Group Cruises so special?

 

Five million visitors strong, Cruise Critic is a critically acclaimed interactive community comprised of avid and first-time cruisers who enjoy the fun of planning, researching and sharing their passion for cruising. No other single resource covers the world of cruising as thoroughly as CruiseCritic.com. Cruise Critic’s world-renowned editorial staff offers objective cruise reviews, features, ports of call profiles and destination stories not to mention, group cruises. The Cruise Critic message boards are the most active in the world.

 

Since its inception in 1995, Cruise Critic has earned the status of being the most influential cruise site on the Web, and an innovator of consumer-oriented cruise travel news. This particular group cruise is being sponsored by Cruise Critic, and Suzi, the Group Leader was selected by Cruise Critic to lead the group.

Cruise Critic groups offer members:

• Onboard assistance from a group leader
  
• Opportunities to get to know one another before the cruise and to socially interract once on the cruise.
  
• Group Activities (such as dive and snorkel packages) and shore excursions.
  
• Valuable group amenities such as shipboard credit and an open bar group cocktail party!

[Sailfish]

November 10, 2008 Emerald Princess Roll Call Forum

 

 

I know many people here at Cruise Critic who join a group cruise do so to make new friends, get informaiton about shore excursions and share the excitement of preparing for an upcoming voyage. Our Roll Call forum has been up and running for a while - even before the group was established!

 

Please pop in and check out who will be cruising with us next November. You can access the roll call forum anytime by cutting and pasting this link if you are unable to click on the hyperlink in this message.

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=592691

 

 

 

 

 

[Sailfish]

 

Group Forum Information

 

 

We have an awesome

group forum here at Cruise Critic at your disposal where members come to obtain information about the November 10, 2008 Emerald Princess Group Cruise. You can cut and paste this URL if you are unable to utilize the hyperlink in this posting:



http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=486



But it's more than your run of the mill Group Forum; it's chock full of useful information specific to the itinerary, the ship and scuba diving. We publish bi-monthly newsletters, and post group updates. The posting on cruise reviews of the Emerald Princess, for example, is regularly updated with new past guest reviews - we post the good with the bad, so you can get a more balanced idea of what to expect.



You will also find fun stuff there, like picture galleries, port information, news of past guest promotions and streaming videos. There is a lot of practical stuff there too, like deck plans, advice on selecting a stateroom, an article about bringing wine onto the ship, parental consent forms (important if you plan to travel alone with kids), the kid's program and of course, dive related informaiton.



Since this is after all a scuba themed cruise, the group forum has many dive related articles, including important medical information, helpful tips, and even information about getting certified.



The site is updated regularly with new information; we have also become very popular with non-members. Many cruisers booked on a future voyage aboard the Emerald who are going to visit the same ports of call pop in to access reviews, and get port specific information. We are especially popular with divers.



The topics posted at our group forum are often inspired by members who have a need to know. I am always getting emails from potential members requesting information about this group, so a lot of the postings reflect their questions and input. I welcome your comments and questions via email, and encourage you to visit our group forum and let me know what you think.



We do have rules, though, and encourage you to read the Group Forum Visitor Information posting before proceeding. I am sure the time you spend at our group forum will be both productive and enjoyable. Please do not hesitate to contact me, the group leader, if you have any questions. If you would like a group cruise brochure, let me know and I can attach it to my reply.



After all is said and done, I hope you will come by our group forum and check out what we have to offer you! If you interested in joining the group, please contact our group agent amd make sure you request to be booked into the November 10, 2008 Cruise Critic Scuba Group.



Thanks.

[Sailfish]

I get one or two emails a month from people who booked this cruise before learning there was a Cruise Critic Group and want to know if there is any benefit in cancelling their existing booking and rebooking into the group.

 

It's really important to take into consideration the hassle of doing so and what benefits you will gain if you do rebook into the group. For some, it will mean saving money, getting shipboard credit and other group perks. For others, it will not be worth the trouble. You have to look at any cancellation penalties your travel agent may impose (this seems to be a trend), as that alone may negate the benefit you gain by rebooking into the group. There are no cruise line penalties to speak of, but depending on the type of cabin you booked and if you were able to tap into any promotions, it might be best to stay where you are!

 

That said, you may want to compare the price you paid with our group rates. Once you take into consideration the $100 per cabin of shipboard credit, it may be to your benefit to rebook. It costs nothing to call our group agent to find out.

 

Did you know you can also use your Future Cruise Credits? Even if you used them to make your existing booking, the cruise line is able to return your FCC's and apply them to another booking. I used mine to book this cruise and so can you.

 

Back in February 07, My husband and I went on a week long Mexican Riviera cruise aboard the Diamond Princess and purchased two Future Cruise Credits for $100 a piece which I used to put down for our deposit. You can purchase Future Cruise Credits on any Princess cruise, and if you don't have any to use on this cruise, I strongly recommend you consider buying some if you plan to take another Princess Cruise. They are good for 4 years.

 

FCC's can be used to deposit ANY Princess cruise, including a group booking like this one. I didn't know this at the time, but learned I didn't have to make a $900 ($450pp) deposit to book my stateroom aboard the Emerald Princess; I simply applied my two FCC's to the group cruise booking!

 

Then I also learned that I would get an additional $200 in shipboard credit ($100 pp) through the FCC as well as the $100 ($50pp) shipboard credit we all get for this group. Meaning, when I embark on this cruise, I will already have $300 in shipboard credit waiting for me! Although I realize this is a somewhat pricey cruise, the shipboard credit really offsets the total cost!

 

I know some of you out there already know about this; although I am not new to Princess, I have always hesitated to buy these FCC - mainly because I like to cruise and enjoy other cruise lines also. Not any more! I really lucked out and hope those of you thinking about this cruise have some FCC's to use as well.

[chefim]

Here are my questions. I did book before I found out about the CC Group, however, I did use FCC, got a Gold Mine promotion and my TA is giving us $100 OBC. So, for me I think it would be a hassle to rebook.

 

With that said, I have always been involved in setting up CC meetings on our cruises. I am not so much interested in the organized things, as we are not scuba people. We would like to meet others from CC, so will be there any kind of meeting where active CC posters can get to meet the other CC people in the group?

 

Regards,

 

Chef

[Sailfish]

Here are my questions. I did book before I found out about the CC Group, however, I did use FCC, got a Gold Mine promotion and my TA is giving us $100 OBC. So, for me I think it would be a hassle to rebook.

 

With that said, I have always been involved in setting up CC meetings on our cruises. I am not so much interested in the organized things, as we are not scuba people. We would like to meet others from CC, so will be there any kind of meeting where active CC posters can get to meet the other CC people in the group?

 

Regards,

 

Chef

 

It sounds like rebooking into the group would not be in your best interest.

 

We have an active roll call forum that I would encourage you to check out. Some participants are group members while some are like yourself, people who booked independent of the group. Our Cruise Group consists of both active Cruise Critic members who dive as well as their non-diver family/friends along with people who do not regularly log onto Cruise Critic.

 

People who are booked into the group will no doubt have more opportunities for social interaction than those who do not. However, a sail away Meet & Greet will be scheduled and people from the Roll Call forum as well as our group members will be encouraged to attend. The group cocktail party and other group specific activities are reserved for group members. If there is unsold space left on group dives and shore excursions, we will make them available to the active members of the Cruise Critic Roll Call Forum before the space is turned back to the dive or tour operator.

 

Activities and group amenities available only to members booked into the group (with the exception of the Meet & Greet) generally include the following:

• Sail Away Meet & Greet (for Roll Call and Group Members)
  
• Group Cocktail Party with Open Bar
  
• Optional Group Dive Package
  
• Optional Group Snorkel Package
  
• Pre-Dive meeting on the first day at sea
  
• Pre-Snorkel Tour Meeting on the first day at sea
  
• Priority Tendering in Ports of Call for Group Tour & Dive Pakage
  
• In-Cabin Cocktail Parties hosted by Group Leader
  
• Opportunity for divers to share & view Underwater Photos & Video
  
• Optional Group Tee Shirts
  
• Group Nite at Dinner
  
• Group Handbook
  
• Optional Group Photo

Every effort is made to encourage members to come to our Meet & Greet, the group cocktail party, and to participate in other group activities. Because the divers and snorkelers in the group will be sharing experiences while in the ports of call, it naturally makes sense that they will want to spend time together on the ship. That's why I have three or four nights (depends on the size of the group) scheduled as Group Nights at Dinner, so those who want to, can enjoy dinner together, yet still have the felxibility of Anytime Dining.

 

We will also make available a group tee shirt sometime in September 08 that members can order. I normally schedule a Group Photo with a ship's photographer sometime early in the cruise where members can show off their group tee shirts. Our annual Scuba Cruise is very popular with people who are into diving and snorkeling; many return year after year, but we see a lot of new faces too!

 

Thanks for your comments and I look forward to meeting you at our Sail Away party on November 10, 2008!

[Sailfish]

We are leading a 10 night Cruise Critic Group Cruise that is scheduled to depart Fort Lauderdale on November 10, 2008 aboard the Emerald Princess; there are a total of 6 ports of call and three days at sea. Because we will be offering a dive package for the certified scuba divers in the group and a snorkel package for the non divers in the group, I am looking for someone interested in the cruise that would be willing to help lead my group of snorkelers while I take care of the certified divers in the group.

 

We will be calling on St. Thomas, Dominica, Grenada, Bonaire, Aruba and Princess Cays. The Emerald Princess is the newest ship in the Princess fleet and by all accounts, the perfect itinerary for people who love to snorkel and enjoy water sports.

 

If you are considering a cruise vacation sometime next year and have thought about trying the Emerald Princess, please consider my offer. Depending on how many people sign up to snorkel, the person selected to lead the snorkel group and his or her buddy could snorkel for FREE! The group snorkel package will include two or three ports of call. I am still working with the dive operators, but I should have the certified scuba and snorkel package in place by mid-January. For information about the Emerald Princess, the Group Cruise as well as the dive and snorkel package, please visit our Group Forum here at Cruise Critic. Please feel free to forward this to people you may know who might be interested in joining us.

 

Thanks!

 

Suzi aka Sailfish

Cruise Critic Group Leader

 

 

Help Wanted!

 

General Information

 

The Group Leader of the 2008 Scuba Cruise aboard the Emerald Princess is looking for someone to lead a group of snorkelers on two or three scheduled snorkel tours. Depending on the number of people who sign up to go, the snorkel group leader and a buddy could possibly snorkel for free! If you or someone you know is an experienced snorkeler and might be interested, please contact the group leader by email no later than January 10, 2007.

 

What's Involved?

On the first day at sea, the Scuba Group Leader will ask everyone scheduled to dive or snorkel with the group to meet for about 30 minutes in the same location they will gather in the morning to disembark the ship. Prior to the cruise, the Scuba Group Leader will inform everyone scheduled to dive or snorkel the time and date their group will depart.

The dive and snorkel groups will receive priority tendering, not normally available to people not booked on a ship sponsored shore excursion. Similar to our dive package, everyone scheduled to go snorkeling is expected to make arrangements to do so on their own. Information about how to go about doing this (once the snorkel package is confirmed) will be available at the group forum.

 

Snorkel Group Leader's Responsibility

 

Everyone is expected to book and pay for their own tour; the Snorkel Group Leader is there to help lead the group of people off the ship and over to the agreed meeting area for tour pick up. In most cases, this is simply a matter of looking for a person holding up a sign just outside the secure area of the port. The Snorkel Group Leader is not there to instruct, babysit or to assist any member. Like the dive group leader (aka the Scuba Group Leader), the Snorkel Group Leader will accompany the group, enjoy the tour, take some pictures and come back to tell the rest of the group what an awesome time everyone had!

 

Qualifications

You must be over 21 years old, have at least one cabin reserved in the Cruise Critic Scuba Group, and be an experienced snorkeler. Most important...you have to be comfortable in the ocean and relate well to others. Depending on the tour, you could be asked to enter the water off of a boat or from shore. Either way, you should be a good example to the rest of the group. If selected, you will be asked to:

• Attend the brief Pre-Snorkel Tour Meeting the first day at sea
  
• Be willing to lead the snorkel group off the ship in port
  
• Be willing to snorkel with the group each day of the snorkel package
  
• Take a few group photos

On 10 night cruises, we usually schedule two or three snorkel excursions for the non-divers in the group in addition to the dive package for our scuba certified members. The person best suited to lead the Snorkel Group is someone who is able to show up on time for a scheduled appointment, be comfortable in a group of about 12-16 people, and is able to have good time. Since the group leader has yet to firm up the particulars concerning the dive and snorkel package, the person selected to lead the snorkel group is welcome to make suggestions as to which ports of call they would prefer to snorkel.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email the group leader.

 

[Sailfish]

2008 Scuba Cruise

Dive Package Update

 

I am getting close to confirming the 2008 Cruise Critic Scuba Cruise Dive Package - well ahead of my own imposed deadline, I am happy to report! We will again be going through ShoreTrips, a web based company, who in the past has done a stellar job putting together my scuba group's dive package. I am always looking for a good deal, for a dive operation that will provide personal service and for dive shops to give us some assurance that in the event we miss the port or have weather issues, we don't get penalized. With the exception of one dive operator, I could not get the others I was negotiating with to refund our diver's deposit in full in the event we can't make it into port.

 

That always seems to be the case with small dive operations, but I was hoping this time it would be different. Without this safetynet, we would all lose our deposits if we could not make it into the port of call.

 

ShoreTrips uses PADI insurred dive operations in each port of call. Our group is assigned a dive coordinator that members can email or contact by phone if they have questions. Each dive is fully refundable if the ship doesn't make port in time or doesn't make port at all. They will also give you back your money if the vendor has to cancel due to equipment or weather problems.

 

ShoreTrips makes it easy to book your dives, as you can do so online at a secure site. They also will have a group web page listing our all our dives, so you can see what dives are being offered.

 

Once our group package is confirmed, I will post the information at our group forum with links where you can get more detailed information and booking instructions. In the mean time, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to post your comments here or to email me, the group leader.

 

Itinerary

 

Day 1 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Day 2 - At Sea

Day 3 - At Sea

Day 4 - Aruba

Day 5 - Bonaire

Day 6 - Grenada

Day 7 - Dominica

Day 8 - St. Thomas

Day 9 - At Sea

Day 10 -Princess Cays

Day 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

 

 

Aruba

Day 4 November 13, 2008

8am-5pm

 

Cost: $92pp

Departure Time: 8:45am

Dive Package: 2 tank boat dives

Max Number of Divers: 16

 

Equipment Rental Rates:

 

Tanks, Weights and Weight Belts are included. BC vests and regulators are available for rent for $12.50 each, payable directly to the dive shop at the time of the dive.

 

Bonaire

Day 5 November 14, 2008

7am-2pm

 

Cost: $51pp

Departure Time: 9am

Dive Package: 1 tank boat dive and unlimited shore diving

Max Number of Divers: 16

 

Equipment Rental Rates:

 

Full gear pkg incl wetsuit....$34.00

Full gear pkg w/o wetsuit....$27.00

 

Regulator ..............$10.00

BCD ....................$10.00

Dive Computers..........$13.50

Mask, Fins, Snorkel.....$10.00

Shortie Wet Suit........$6.00

Underwater Flashlight...$7.00

 

If you have members of your party who are not divers, they can come along and use the hotel's beach for $5 (paid at the resort).

 

Grenada

Day 6 November 15, 2008

12 noon - 7pm

 

Cost: $122pp

Departure Time: 1:00pm

Dive Package: 2 tank boat dives

Max Number of Divers: 16

 

Equipment Rental Rates:

 

No charge for rental equipment.

 

Dominica

Day 7 November 16, 2008

7am - 5pm

 

Cost: $100pp

Departure Time: 8:00am

Dive Package: 2 tank boat dives

Max Number of Divers: 8

 

Equipment Rental Rates:

 

No charge for rental equipment.

 

St. Thomas

Day 8 November 17, 2008

8am - 6pm

 

Cost: $120pp

Departure Time: 9am

Dive Package: 2 tank boat dives

Max Number of Divers: 16

 

Equipment Rental Rates:

 

No charge for rental equipment

 

 

Cancellation Policy:

 

ShoreTrip's policy is to refund all tours and excursions if the ship doesn't make port in time or doesn't make port at all. They will also give you back your money if the vendor has to cancel due to equipment or weather problems.

 

You must contact ShoreTrips within 12 days after the date you were scheduled to dive to tell us that your cruise ship or the vendor prevented you from going.

 

You may cancel your ShoreTrips booking and receive a full refund up to 11 days before the the actual date of your reserved dive. At 10 days outbound, all trips become non-refundable.

 

To cancel your dives, log into www.shoretrips.com with your User Id and Password. Then click on "View Bookings" and click on the garbage can icon next to the booking. This will cancel your booking and refund your charge card in full.

[Sailfish]

Snorkel Package for Group Members

 

I am in the process of lining up the the 2008 Cruise Critic Scuba Cruise Snorkel Package for our non-divers. We will be utilizing ShoreTrips, a web based company, who in the past has done a stellar job putting together my scuba group's dive package. The snorkelers will also have a person in charge of leading the group, and together we will be available to answer any questions you will have.

 

ShoreTrips uses well established tour operators in our ports of call. Our group will be assigned a snorkel group coordinator at ShoreTrips that members can email or contact by phone if they have questions. Each tour is fully refundable if the ship doesn't make port in time or doesn't make port at all. They will also give you back your money if the vendor has to cancel due to equipment or weather problems.

 

ShoreTrips makes it easy to book your tour, as you can do so online at a secure site. They also will have a group web page listing our snorkel package, so you can see what tours are being offered.

 

Once our group package is confirmed, I will post the information at our group forum with links where you can get more detailed information and booking instructions. I am still working on Dominica but should have things firmed up soon. In the mean time, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to post your comments here or to email me, the group leader.

 

Itinerary

 

Mon - Day 1 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Tue - Day 2 - At Sea

Wed - Day 3 - At Sea

Thu - Day 4 - Aruba

Fri - Day 5 - Bonaire

Sat - Day 6 - Grenada

Sun - Day 7 - Dominica

Mon - Day 8 - St. Thomas

Tue - Day 9 - At Sea

Wed - Day 10 - Princess Cays

Thu - Day 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

 

 

Aruba

Day 4 November 13, 2008

Thu 8am-5pm

 

Cost: $51pp

Departure Time: 9:00am (3.5 hours)

Snorkel Package: SNORKEL...AND TRIMARAN SAIL WITH CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH

Max Number of Divers: 20

 

 

Your day begins with a breakfast of freshly baked goodies, juice and sparkling Mimosas. You'll sail to 2 of Aruba's best snorkel stops with your experienced captain and crew. Your first location is the famous wreck, "Antilla", where you'll spend about 30 minutes exploring. The 'Antilla' is thought of as one of the best shipwrecks in the Caribbean. In the crystal clear water, she is an awesome sight to behold. And during the more than 60 years under water, she has become home to many colorful tropical marine creatures.

 

Your second snorkel stop is Catalina Bay, with calm waters and great visibility. Many colorful coral and fish await your viewing in the clear 8-10 foot waters. Here you'll have a relaxing 45 minutes - 1 hour to enjoy the world beneath the waves.

 

 

After all that snorkeling, you will no doubt have worked up quite an appetite. A bountiful buffet lunch awaits, with crusty french bread, a meat and cheese board, crisp green salad and delicious tropical fruits...not to mention the open bar. A variety of drinks, from rum to whisky, soda to iced tea and more are available to satisfy your thirst. Your captain and crew will see to it that you have a wonderful day in Aruba. With a maximum of 20 people on board, you'll receive individual attention, especially if you are a novice snorkeler.

 

 

Bonaire

Day 5 November 14, 2008

Fri 7am-2pm

 

Cost: $5

Departure Time: 9am

Max Number of Snorkelers: 16

 

Snorkelers are welcome to accompany the dive group to the resort where the dive shop is located and use the hotel's facilities and beach for $5 (paid at the resort). There is great snorkeling from shore and a small casino onsite.

 

If you want to snorkel, please sign-up at the Group Forum.

 

Grenada

Day 6 November 15, 2008

Sat 12 noon - 7pm

 

Cost: approx. $70pp

Departure Time: 1:00pm

Snorkel Package: Private Boat Charter

Max Number of Snorkelers: 16

 

 

Your boat, a comfortable snorkel boat, will be crewed by a captain and guide. Your snorkel gear is included and instruction given if you need it. As you essentially "own" the boat for 3 hours, you may make your snorkel stops as often and as short as you wish.

 

Dominica

Day 7 November 16, 2008

Sun 7am - 5pm

 

Cost: approx $50

Departure Time: 8:00am

Dive Package: TBA

Max Number of Snorkelers: 12

 

We are still working out the particulars. More information to follow.

 

 

Cancellation Policy:

 

ShoreTrip's policy is to refund all tours and excursions if the ship doesn't make port in time or doesn't make port at all. They will also give you back your money if the vendor has to cancel due to equipment or weather problems.

 

You must contact ShoreTrips within 12 days after the date you were scheduled to snorkel to tell us that your cruise ship or the vendor prevented you from going.

 

You may cancel your ShoreTrips booking and receive a full refund up to 11 days before the the actual date of your reserved dive. At 10 days outbound, all trips become non-refundable.

 

To cancel your tours, log into www.shoretrips.com with your User Id and Password. Then click on "View Bookings" and click on the garbage can icon next to the booking. This will cancel your booking and refund your charge card in full.

[Sailfish]

 

 

Help Wanted!

 

The Group Leader of the 2008 Scuba Cruise aboard the Emerald Princess is looking for someone to lead a group of snorkelers on two or three scheduled snorkel tours. Depending on the number of people who sign up to go, the snorkel group leader and a buddy could possibly snorkel for free! If you or someone you know is an experienced snorkeler and might be interested, please contact the group leader by email no later than January 10, 2007.

 

 

 

Great News! We got ourselves a Snorkel Leader! Thanks, Sharon!!

[Sailfish]

Cruise Booking Deadline

Although we anticipate there to be stateroom inventory available well into Spring 2008, Princess Cruises can recall blocks of cabins set aside for the group at any time. That is why we are recommending if you are serious about joining the group that you consider putting down a deposit as soon as possible. Once the group dive package is confirmed in January, we anticipate our group booking to take off.

 

Because there is a $50 per cabin cancellation fee imposed by CruCon, it is understandable for people to wait until they know for sure that they are able to go. The $450pp minimum deposit on this cruise is also more than what a lot of people are used to, so that alone may deter many from booking this cruise early. What ever the reason, we understand that people interested in joining the group need to know how long they have to put down a deposit and by what date they must pay for the cruise and their dives or snorkel tour.

Therefore, we are requesting that you consider depositing the cruise no later than Friday, February 29, 2008; the balance is due on July 25, 2008. You can sign-up for your dives once you have deposited the cruise at the group forum; you will have until September 15, 2008 to purchase your dives or snorkel tour package and confirm your spot on the boat in the ports of call.

 

It is possible there will be cruise inventory available to the group after the 2/29/08 deadline. However, the fact that this is a new ship, doing a seasonal itinerary that is very much in demand may require CruCon to turn back unsold cabins that are usually most in demand: low priced category JJ inside staterooms and category BC balconies. If that occurs, CruCon will be forced to obtain staterooms out of the cruise line’s general inventory for you and the price you pay could be a lot more than what was originally available in group inventory.

 

I feel kind of funny establishing a deadline, and I debated whether this was a good idea, since I for one don't like the idea of having to part with my money any sooner than I have to. The cruise line and our group agent obviously support the idea; they feel many people may need a way to budget for this cruise, and for them, it probably would make sense to have the depost taken care of by a set date. And it's always possible that the room category you want may not be in the group's inventory.

 

If you are holding FCC's (future cruise credits you purchased on a Princess cruise), you are very much encouraged to book your cabin as soon as possible to insure you get the category and location you want. This is especially a good idea if you are looking to reserve a stateroom with a balcony. Based on my experience, the least expensive balconies are usually the first to go.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me or to post a reply to this message.

[Sailfish]

Confirmed Pricing for Group Dive Package

 

 

Until now, I didn't have confirmed pricing from ShoreTrips; I do now for all our ports except Dominica which I should have very soon. Since I feel everyone interested in diving with the group should know how I came about selecting ShoreTrips, I feel my Scuba Group members are entitled to a cost comparison. I also feel members should know that just because I used ShoreTrips on the last scuba cruise, I didn't feel compelled to sign-on with them. In fact, I put a lot of effort into contacting individual dive operations, and only after the majority told me that they wouldn't honor my request for a cancellation and refund policy, that I contacted the cruise line and ShoreTrips.

 

I want everyone to feel good about diving with the group, and hope all of you understand that in my opinion, booking our group dive package with ShoreTrips made the most sense. The prices are in line with my expectations and reasonable for a quality product. The dive package does not invoke a cancellation penalty in the event the ship is unable to make into the port of call and purchasing your dives is secure and easy.

 

If you are a certified diver, you know that scuba diving is an exepnsive sport. I do what I can to keep your cost down, and hope, after further examination, you will agree that diving with the group is the best way to go. However, please note that you are under no obligation to dive with the group. In fact, I have a list of quality dive operations in each of our ports of call that I'd be happy to disclose to you if you prefer to make your own arrangements.

 

As you look through the price list, I want to point out a few things. Joann, our group dive coordinator at ShoreTrips wanted me to let you know that none of the dive shops used for the group at our ports of call run cattle boat operations. They limit the number of divers, include tansportation and a lot of extras you won't get elsewhere. Joann is a diver and visits all the dive operations used by ShoreTrips regularly - she just returned from her latest dive trip last month - their version of quality control (I wish I had her job!).

 

More often than not, the published rates at ShoreTrips will be less than what the cruise line would charge. That's not the case in St. Thomas; she put together a dive package for the group at the premier dive operation on the island. I could have gone with a lesser dive operation, but felt it was worth paying a little more for individual attention and quality. I don't expect everyone to agree with me, but I have come to trust Joann's input. I could have made arrangements on my own in St. Thomas, but when I factored in the price and the cost of transportation, I felt what Joann could offer the group was better than what I could do on my own. The dives offered through Princess include transportation, but on our particular sailing, which is so popular with divers, the ship's dive group will be quite large in St. Thomas.

 

I expect most of the dive operations to limit the number of divers they can accommodate. I don't have numbers yet, but I will soon, and when I do, I will post this information. If you think you want to dive with the group, I would recommend you put your name on the appropriate dive boat list. People whose names appear on the list will be guaranteed a spot when they are ready to purchase the dives. There's really no obligation and you can remove your name if you change your mind. For that reason, I will also have a waiting list for each port.

 

1. The cost to dive all five ports of call with the Scuba Group: $452

 

If you were to dive with the group in all five ports of call (through ShoreTrips), you can expect to pay close to $452 - that's including the dives in Dominica, which we expect to cost around $100 - give or take a few $.

 

2. The cost to dive all five ports of call with Princess: $555

 

If you booked your dives through Princess, the cost to do so would be $555 - about $100 more than our group's cost. You'd be silly to consider going this route!

 

3. The cost to dive all five ports of call on your own: About $422

 

I won't argue with you that booking your dives independently will save you the most money. If you do so, based on my research, it will cost you around $422 - a savings of around $30 over our rates - to book all your own dives. I found most dive operators will require a non-refundable deposit (the main reason I chose to go with ShoreTrips), will have larger dive groups and will not include tranportation.

 

You save the most money in St. Thomas (around $23) followed by Grenada (around $14) and Aruba ($8) if you make arrangements to dive there on your own. It's cheaper to dive with the group in Bonaire and probably also in Dominica. If you factor in the cost of transportation, about the only port where you will save a significant amount of money if you do it yourself is in St. Thomas. I anticipate a few people to do just that!

 

Members who plan to dive in all five ports of call with the group will find the cost to do so reasonable. Most I think will agree that it's worth it to dive with the same people all week. I also think they will appreciate the individual attention, smaller groups and free transportation associated with the group dive package. Nobody wants to experience a port cancellation, but it's nice to know that if we can't get to a port for whatever reason, ShoreTrips will either refund 100% of money paid for dives in that port or make arrangements (in the event of a last minute itinerary change) to dive somewhere else.

 

4. Which Ports to Dive, Which to spend with non-Divers

 

People who do not intend to dive in each port of call (I expect 50% to fall into this category) always ask which ports I recommend the most. All the ports of call we are scheduled to visit on this cruise have great diving, so it's kind of hard to choose. But if I had to, I'd recommend Aruba, Bonaire, Dominica and St. Thomas.

 

We arrive in Grenada around noon and stay until 7pm - we will be scheduled to dive 2 tanks in the afternoon. If you dive, there won't be much time to see the island or do much shopping. There's a lot of interesting things to see and do topside in Grenada, so it might be a port worth seeing with non-diving family and friends.

 

We are in the other ports all day. If you dive with the group, you should still have some time in the afternoon (with the exception of Bonaire) to explore the island or to do a lttle shopping. Most divers are anxious to get wet, so I expect us to max out in Aruba. And since St. Thomas is our last port of call, I would also expect to max out there. If you are traveling with non-divers, I recommend you research the ports of call and figure out which ports are best to spend topside.

 

I hope you will take into consideration the benefits of diving with the group, including priority tendering, my shipboard services as your group dive leader and the camaraderie associated with diving with new freinds all week long! Please don't hesitate to post a reply if you have any questions.

 

Prices:

 

 

Aruba $83

Day 4 November 13, 2008

8am-5pm

2 tank boat dives

 

ShoreTrips Dive Package Cost: $83

Cruise Line Cost: $99pp

Independent Dive Operator Cost: $75pp

 

Bonaire $51

Day 5 November 14, 2008

7am-2pm

 

ShoreTrips Dive Package (1 tank boat dive, unlimited shore diving) Cost: $51

Cruise Line Cost (2 tank boat dives): $129

Independent Dive Operator Cost (2 tank boat dives): $60

 

Grenada $110

Day 6 November 15, 2008

12 noon - 7pm

2 tank boat dives

 

ShoreTrips Dive Package Cost:$110

Cruise Line Cost: $119

Independent Dive Operator Cost:$96

 

Dominica (Count on it being about $100)

Day 7 November 16, 2008

7am - 5pm

2 tank boat dives

 

ShoreTrips Dive Package Cost: TBA (should be around $100

Cruise Line Cost: $109pp

Independent Dive Operator Cost:$106

 

St. Thomas $108

Day 8 November 17, 2008

8am - 6pm

2 tank boat dives

 

ShoreTrips Dive Package Cost:$108

Cruise Line Cost: $99

Independent Dive Operator Cost:$85

[Sailfish]

Dive Boat Update

 

Just a brief update - if you are interested in diving with the group, the dive boats in some ports are filling up.

The dive boats in Grenada and Dominica are full, though I have requested a second dive boat for the group. I will not know for a couple of months if our request to add more divers will be honored, so I felt it was only fair to give you a heads up.

 

If you would like to dive in any port of call where the dive boat appears to be full, please add your name to the dive boat waiting list. As time goes on, things happen where people are forced to back out, so I recommend if you want to dive with the group, that you add your name to the waiting list before you deposit the cruise.

 

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

[tinker 4]

If you are Canadian and have FCC can you use them and still get your OBC. After all I paid 135.00 cad to buy the 100.00 US FC?

[Sailfish]

If you are Canadian and have FCC can you use them and still get your OBC. After all I paid 135.00 cad to buy the 100.00 US FC?

 

You would have to contact Johna, our group agent at CruCon to find out for sure, but once you have FCC's on the books at Princess, I would think it wouldn't matter where you are from. Better yet, why not call up Princess and find out; they should be able to tell you in a pinch!

 

Good luck!

[Sailfish]

Information for Divers NEW to Cruising

 

The purpose of this posting is to provide those new to cruising some general information on what to expect from this trip. If you're a diver, you are probably already familar with live-aboards. Let me begin by saying this trip will not resemble a live-aboard vacation.

 

If you have not already done so, you will need to contact our agent at CruCon to book this cruise. Our agent there will assist you in selecting a cabin, take your deposit and help answer any questions you may have regarding your booking. As your group leader, I can help answer any questions you might have concerning the scuba cruise or our dive package as well as give you input on our ports of call.

 

This cruise is what I would call an Exotic Southern Caribbean Cruise - a divers dream come true. The Emerald Princess is Princess Cruises newest ship at the moment, coming into service just this past Spring (2007). Our optional group dive package includes a two tank dive in each port of call.

 

There will be two days at sea on this 10 day cruise to begin with and one day at sea on day 9 towards the end of the voyage. Those first two days at sea will allow you to get to know the ship and the people in the group. If you are planning to dive with the group, the divers will get together on one of those days at sea to discuss the busy week ahead of us.

 

Our group will not have a fixed dining time, unless you want one for your party - please make sure if you want to eat with the same people every night you let our group agent Johna at Crucon know this. Otherwise, you can eat when you want, with whom you choose at any dining venue on the ship. There will be a total of two formal nights on the cruise; one at the beginning and one towards the end.

 

In the evening, you'll find shows, lounge acts, karaoke, the casino and other entertainment venues going all night long. There's a daily newsletter outlining your choices delivered to your room every night.

 

There will be a new port of call every day five days in a row where we will offer diving and a stop at Princess Cays, the cruise line's private island, on the last day of the cruise. If you are planning to dive with the group, it will be important for you to be at the designated meeting area on the ship so we can disembark the ship in timely mannor.

 

There are pros and cons to a dive vacation that's also a cruise. However, most people, after doing one, opt to continue to cruise and dive. Princess Cruises does an exceptionally good job in combining excellent dive ports with a low key, less structured cruise experience. Thanks to anytime dining, you can call the shots as to when to eat and with whom. The Emerald Princess has comfortable staterooms and excellent amenities as well as a great spa. Though a little pricey, a massage towards the end of the cruise after completing 10 dives is a very nice way to finish off a dive vacation!

 

One huge benefit, I am told, for divers traveling with non-divers, is the ability of the cruise to keep everyone happy. Although I don't expect many group members to be with kids this cruise,( given it's in early November) it's nice to know the ones that will have little ones along will have the option of daycare and babysitting. Remember, you don't have to dive in every port of call. It's good to spend time with your family and friends, and a cruise like this will allow you to do both

 

If you plan to bring some or all of your own equipment, I recommend you do so in a rolling duffle, as we will be shlepping our gear in port. The one we have is airline carry-on approved, but I have seen a variety of designs - both hard and soft, that seems to work well, and divers don't seem to think twice about checking in their equipment. We always travel with our own equipment, and most members of past scuba cruises who rented equipment all seem to agree that diving with your own gear is the way to go. If you can only afford to invest in one piece of equipment, it would be a regulator and dive computer.

 

Your gratuities will automatically be billed (at $10pp per day) to your shipboard account. You can adjust this amount, or remove it altogether if you prefer to tip with cash. You should also bring along some cash for dive boat tips, if you plan to dive with the group. There is usually at least one ATM machine on the ship, and you should be able to cash traveler's checks at the Guest Relations desk, but obtaining a cash advance on your credit card or shipboard account will be very expensive. There will be a safe in your cabin where you can store small valuables and your money.

 

All your shipboard purchases, including those made in the gift shop, go on your shipboard credit account. You can add money to your shipboard account to prepay for some anticipated expenses like tours, alcoholic beverages, and souvenirs.

 

Those of you flying into Fort Lauderdale the day before should plan to look into pre-cruise hotel accommodations. It's always a good idea to fly in the day before if you have to change planes, since you don't want to risk airline delays. For example, I will be flying into Fort Lauderdale from the west coast after making a connection in Dallas. It makes more sense for me to fly in the day before than the person who has a short 1.5 hour flight with no plane changes.

 

Members often ask me about how much one can expect to spend while on a cruise. A lot depends on how much you drink and how you spend your money. Our dive package will require you to pre-pay for your dives before you cruise, so that is one expense you will have had covered before you ever step foot on the ship. I know people who go on cruises who check-out on the last day with nothing more than their ($10 per person per day) gratuities on their shipboard account. They bring most of their own alcohol and wine and limit their spending to purchases made in the ports of call. On the other hand, I have seen people check out on the last day with 10 pages of charges on their shipboard account! It's very easy to rack up a huge tab if you enjoy drinking! As I said earlier, some people anticipate what they will spend and buy additional shipboard credits that are there for you to spend. One couple I know of put $1000 on their shipboard account last year and spent all of it on alcoholic drinks and in the spa. When they checked out, they had a $0 balance and nothing was billed to their credit card on file.

 

If your idea of the perfect dive vacation is doing multiple dives per day (like you can on a live aboard or a vacation to Bonaire), and your goal is to dive a lot, a scuba cruise is not for you. You will have the ability to do 10, possibly 11 dives while on the cruise. Because each dive operation we dive with will be a first for most divers, you can plan on the dives being somewhat more conservative than what you would do if you dove with the same dive operation day after day. That said, we do make every effort to customize our dives to meet the needs of both the novice and more experienced diver.

 

A cruise provides a very comfortable home base, that allows you to dive multiple locations, eat decent food, decompress while enjoying a show and stay in touch with home via easy internet access. All that aside, only you can decide if a cruise is right for you.

[Sailfish]

March Update

 

Based on recent information I got from CruCon, it appears we continue to have good stateroom inventory available well into March. Johna, our group agent, wanted me to remind people holding onto Future Cruise Credits that you can use them to book this cruise, and increase your shipboard credit! No other deposit is required if you use FCC's!

 

If you are a certified scuba diver, space on our dive boats is filling up; Grenada is sold out! That said, I was able to get an additional boat or a larger boat in some of our ports of call, increasing the number of divers we can accommodate. Currently, we have a group of 11 divers. I expect to to max out at 16. If you are interested in diving with the group in Grenada, it might be possible for us to get another boat, but I would need at least 6 more divers.

 

We appear to have a nice group, consisting of non-divers and divers. If you know of anyone interested in joining the group, please encourage them to email me, the group leader, for a group brochure.

 

Thanks.