Aggressive Passengers Act Up On Cruise Excursion

[@Marie70272]

I had a sister that was late for everything she said clocks and watches were controlling mechanisms. So the family always told her the event was 2 hours before actual time,when she found out correct time she was fuming.But,she was on time!🤪😅😅😅

[@lindapark8467]

What a great tale! This reminds me of a tour trip my husband and I took back in 2005. One couple was always the last to the bus, often after the agreed upon time. At the tour group director’s suggestion, one time the bus left without them, and then circled backs to pick them up. They were no longer late after that….

[@gatoreuph]

On a bus tour of San Francisco a few years ago, a couple and their two kids were late returning to the bus at each of the first three stops. The guide explained that they couldn't be late at the next stop because we would miss the ferry. He said he would be forced to leave them behind. Sure enough, they got left! I think the rest of the passengers cheered.

[@lindavalentine3547]

We had a woman on a small group excursion who was constantly significantly late. She had traveled with this company often & had a sense of entitlement. Unfortunately, little remarks had no effect on her. We were all polite older women and were not going to start a fight, so the next time she was late for the bus, we all stood up and gave her a standing ovation. We were smiling and laughing so she really couldn’t be mad, but seeing everyone stand & clap had an effect on her & she was on time for the most part after that.

[@98849]

I know the type ! On a tour of NASA one dear lady thought she had the tight to push people out of her way and the group turned to me to ask my mother to be less rude - she was English and maybe we sounded alike. Although I am Irish ! I said she is just one rude old girl to which she replied I am only 94 - she lived in Paris and travelled to catch a cruise going from UK via 16 stops to New Orleans - she was a nightmare every day then gave everyone a really bad cold. You can not imagine how awful she was and unfortunately played bridge demanding to join a private group !

[@michelehoward4113]

To me…that’s the difference. If that woman was just 15 mins late because it took her longer to walk back…show some Grace people! Be kind. It’s not hard. But in your case, you would have been justified in being angry. But y’all took the high road ish, lol, and got your point across. Kudos.

[@pennysargent9557]

I HATE bullies, wherever they are found

[@mariahoulihan9483]

passive aggressive.. not funny.

[@paulamcdonald6568]

@@mariahoulihan9483 we can agree to disagree. Passive aggressive sarcasm is a lifestyle & a skill as well. 😂

[@rockhopper01]

Grace is a forgotten virtue. And given the evils and perils of the world, it’s super hard for me to be upset with anything while ON A CRUISE.

[@constancecook-cruisetravel1166]

Amen

[@audreyann4777]

Disagree. I was on a tour bus in St Martin where 4 people were late coming back from shopping. This made us lose time on the next 2 stops on the tour. So rather than spending said extra time on the 2 other stops basking on the beach, we spent it sitting on a bus waiting for them. They were too loaded to notice the time, they said.

[@richardlemons8196]

@@audreyann4777 And yet you lived through that ghastly experience, how does one survive the rigors, and perils of sitting on one's tuchus in St Martin on a bus and make it back home alive. Why your story wasn't on CNN is a travesty and a miscarriage of profound justice, this shall not STAND!!! Oh, by the way, ya I'm an ass.

[@charlayned]

@@audreyann4777 Talking to them gently, saying "hey, you're late, we were worried. Everyone's on to the next stop, do you need someone to signal you when it's time? I don't mind helping you, if you need it." That gets the point across without becoming loud and obnoxious. Or, take it to the tour director, they can say something.

[@rockhopper01]

@@audreyann4777 of course you disagree. Because you forgot that while you were on the bus, someone elsewhere was going through two hours of chemo.

[@tinaseaboch1364]

Imagine being so unhappy that not only can you not shut up & ruin it for those around you but that you ruin it for yourself… to be so unhappy being on vacation… so many never get the opportunities… Sad

[@saintsfanatik]

We live in a society where other people matter. Grace is good, consideration for others is also good. Also, who makes dinner reservations during the same time you're on an excursion?

[@kathleenhudson8429]

@@steveramsey7983 if you’re on an official ship excursion, the ship will guarantee to get you back on board.

[@catsrus2890]

Yeah, the people need to chill out about their dinner reservations at 5 pm. 😂 They spend thousands of dollars on a European cruise and then they're worried about dinner??? Too funny!😂

[@michelealkins616]

@@catsrus2890I think they were miffed about having to miss their properly planned and properly timed dinner reservation because someone was inconsiderate to everyone else on the bus and wasted their time. Vacation time is precious and we try to fill our days with many great experiences. Sometimes specialty dining reservations are hard to come by and are also prepaid.

[@ebstudio9525]

Drama on the Excurt - I m here for it

[@catsrus2890]

@@michelealkins616 I have done many cruises and have never seen someone get so bent out of shape about spending longer on an excursion. If they missed their specialty dining because of the excursion, the cruise ship would refund their money because it was an excursion booked through the ship. It's a sad state if food is more important than seeing the beautiful countryside. 😂

[@Clutching.My.Pearls]

This is exactly why my husband and I travel on our own. We avoid tours, I make all the plans, and we have a great time.

[@briandonovan1584]

Absolutely. Tours can be ok but you have no control over the itinerary. Sometimes you decide to do something else or you get tired and want to just go back. Plus tourists can be real a-holes. I have lived as I do now in tourist areas along the Pacific Coast from the Golden gate to Panama. My town needs them but the tourists are often disrespectful and clueless.

[@elizabethgrogan8553]

​@@briandonovan1584 I hate the idea of being locked up with such high numbers of strangers. A cruise would be hell. When I go to sea, its on a 4 person yacht. These people complaining about a 15 minute walk, through the magnificant gardens of Leeds Castle is just a short stroll to me. I saw a group of American "cruisers" at another stately home. Most were obese. They needed to get some excercise. Inside the beautiful home, they didnt talk, they shouted. One caretaker I spoke to told me that cruise passengers from the US were a pain in the neck. I agreed.

[@briandonovan1584]

@@elizabethgrogan8553 I agree.

[@oceancat0450]

@@elizabethgrogan8553 as a US citizen, I agree.

[@christinebenowitz5989]

Same here!

[@richardbrabham7107]

When I went to Disney World the tour guide said, bus leaves at 8 pm. No worries if you're late, the next bus leaves at 8 pm TOMORROW night. Everyone was on board by 7:40!

[@pickypants9696]

Love that! Perfect passive aggressive comment that is funny but tells folks to have their behinds back on time!

[@dkorsey]

I was on an excursion once where the bus passengers threw a fit over a folding wheel chair. It was a smaller tour bus, maybe seating 15-20 and the wheelchair was folded and placed in the isle by the door. One older lady started saying it was a danger, and several other passengers joined in. Apparently a 40 pound wheelchair flying around in the event of an accident was far riskier then 20 unsecured passengers (all between 100 and 200 pounds each) flying around. The owner of the wheel chair was so mortified saying she didn’t want to harm anyone that she left the tour. It was pretty shameful I though.

[@551slobo]

I’ve had that happen in Grand Cayman. 20 min late at the first stop. People on the bus let the two offenders know about it when they got back on. The next stop they were late again. On the third stop the tour company picked them up in a van and took them back to the ship, missing the second half of the trip. It actually brought the rest of the cruise passengers together and bonded. Great outcome.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Wow, that was a great idea of the tour company because they didn’t keep the other passengers from missing their portion or not allowing enough time to enjoy it all because of two passengers getting late constantly

[@iangill8984]

Occasionally people are late but mostly inadvertently. Our worst experience was an excursion to Rome, for those who dont know, Rome is nowhere near the sea so is quite a drive. There were two ladies travelling together who were late getting back to the meeting point at every stop. It reached the stage where we were due to go around the Vatican in the afternoon, the tour guide asked us all to stay just outside the ticket office whilst she got the tickets and was back in a couple minutes. Our two ladies had wandered off shopping and turned up 15 minutes later. The guide actually had stern words because they were spoiling the day for everyone else. The final part of the trip was some free time around square in front of the Vatican, we all duly met up at the assigned meeting place. I say all because 15 minutes late the same two ladies strolled up eating ice creams. The guide mentioned they were late and the ladies just shrugged. The two rudest, most selfish cruisers I have come across.

[@Gobear1]

That's why I prefer to hire private drivers instead of paying for over-priced ship excursions. We used RomeinLimo for our last trip to Italy, and they were great. We could go where we wanted instead of having to adhere to a pre-set schedule, and we weren't crowded on a bus with 40 other people. There is no excuse for being mean to other people out of sheer spite. Instead of worrying about schedules, just take a deep breath and reflect on the wonder of travel and being fortunate enough to be able to go on a cruise. We were in Athens last fall, and there was a 20-something man who was a complete ass to the crew because the airport bus was delayed. No excuse for that. You're in Greece, suck it up!

[@MichaelGiordano777]

Those two just had to be Americans. I just have to know!

[@aidahiser5154]

@@MichaelGiordano777 LOL....as an American...I 100% would guess that they were indeed one of the entitled/arrogant Americans that embarrass the rest of us!!! LOL

[@d.grouard6737]

@@MichaelGiordano777 I had the exact same thought.

[@teewhyemm1130]

@@MichaelGiordano777 I have been on a lot of tours in many different countries and the late/rude ones are hardly ever Americans, lol. At least in my experience. I was raised in a Southern family, so I am a please and thank you kind of person, but I am always on the lookout for rude Americans, so I'll know if I need to do a face palm when they start acting up and because rudeness is expected from us. But trust me, there are always other nationalities to pick up the slack from Americans, rudeness and entitlement are universal.

[@lovecruisin6457]

Voice of compassion. I am a substitute teacher and have had less drama in middle school classes than you had on that excursion.

[@BodaciousCNO]

Or perhaps you are a brilliant teacher

[@dobees8183]

Wow, what district do you work for?

[@quicksesh]

and you probably see more adult behaviour as well ... 😂

[@BodaciousCNO]

@@quicksesh Adult behavior?

[@lovecruisin6457]

@@dobees8183 A district in Central Oregon.

[@dena-mo118]

We were on a ship's excursion to Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada. The tour guide was specific in saying you have to be back at a specific time. We were not in port for very long that day. Even told us if you're late by more than 15 minutes, you will be left and have to find your own transportation back to port. Sure enough, we left someone. 😮 He definitely kept to his word!

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

That’s great that he spelled it out like that. When you have to wait for someone about 15 or 20 minutes and your 15 minutes before the time scheduled you end up waiting 30 or 35 minutes for someone. I can understand if they have a health reason, but if they’re just have walking problems, then they should have gone on the tour.

[@dawncrossland3028]

I Got Left There! 🤣

[@dorisl1536]

Oh man, that reminds me of the time my husband got lost when we were walking to our tour bus at the start of an excursion. At the time he had limited vision. We were running late due to being dropped off late by the cruise people. The tour bus was a little hard to find - as I recall it was at the end of an "L" shape. I was in a rush knowing we were going to be late. I did not know my husband lost sight of me. I got to the bus on time and realized he was not behind me! He couldn't find the bus because it was on the small part of the "L". I told the bus not to leave that he was right behind me. When he didn't come I had no choice then but to go look for him. Bless his heart he couldn't find me or the bus. I know the other passengers must have been irritated with us. But at least they waited and we got to do the excursion. Because of that I will never be mad if someone is running late getting back. You never know what the circumstances are.

[@srbboo5014]

Newsflash for the woman who was complaining to strangers: someday you will be older, slower, weaker, and perhaps have physical ailments that will cause you great distress and delay (think digestive issues) and you’ll cause someone else an inconvenience - be kind to strangers, you don’t know what their story is. Take a deep breath, relax, and thank God for the great blessing of being able to travel in safety and comfort, enjoying the beauty and culture around you. The world is a much happier place when your heart is light.

[@birbluv9595]

Hear, hear! Compassion is a virtue that is often scarce these days. Patience is definitely in short supply. Try to imagine yourself taking a walk in the other person’s moccasins.

[@lovecruisin6457]

Same thing happened to me on an 8 hour excursion in Iceland - EXCEPT, the tour bus left the couple who were still not on the bus 30 minutes after the “all aboard” time. I heard later that the couple had to hire a ride for several hundred dollars to get back to the bus and then demanded a refund for the excursion because the bus left them! We are filled with a world of entitled people.

[@dianej1714]

Lots of entitled people on cruises since the restart, for sure.

[@steveramsey7983]

These are the people I wave to as the ship leaves port on time and these slowpokes come riding up in their limos, just out and start waving at the ship to stop, lmao! We just raise our drinks and wave back!

[@ruthmauel3195]

@@dianej1714 It's not just since the restart. Some people have always loved finding an opportunity and then hitting other people the head with the rule books to diminish the others so that they can pat themselves on their own backs for being so perfect.

[@AM-dr9qd]

​@@ruthmauel3195 Is not about being perfect. Rules and procedures are in place in order to allow everyone to have an amazing time. People that doesn't like rules + procedures should not participate in activities. The world doesn't turn around them.

[@ruthmauel3195]

@@AM-dr9qd Of course rules & procedures are in place for a reason but being *only* 20 minutes late for a walking portion that even Tony said that he had to keep his legs in a high gear to get to the Leeds Castle and back in time, tells any logical person that the time allotted was insufficient by the tour designers and with that gives a rules person the perfect opportunity to bring attention to themselves about how perfect they are. To the others, whether they also find comfort in always abiding in the rules even if it means that they don't get to see or do a once-in-a-lifetime or the other side who were non-plussed and were compassionate and chill about it, they kept their mouths zippered as everybody should have. This lady was not perpetually late on several stops, it was just one stop. I guarantee you A M, that it wouldn't take anybody more than a few minutes to examine your personality and life to find a big hole of moral failings. He who is without sin, cast the first stone.

[@carolbradley4845]

Now that I’m older (62), I can look back and remember times when I was ridiculously uptight about timing, schedules, getting a “good” seat, etc. Everything usually works out ok and I cheated myself out of just being in the moment. I’m more chill now, I hope. I also have mobility issues but I am respectful of my limitations AND also respectful of other people. I don’t want anyone having to wait on me. Having said that, I would like to think I would have better manners than to be verbally abusive to an older lady.

[@TropicLuv]

I am 74 years old, and just returned from a Viking river cruise down the Rhine. And there was so much walking and I’m not handicap in anyway but by the end of the tours I was really tuckered out. That 15 minute walk would have been a bit much for some people probably me included. As for the grumblers, everybody loves to complain, but to the extent that they did, it was very rude. I’m glad the tour Director on the bus did what he did.

[@melainewhite6409]

As someone who displays awareness of your limitations, should _you_ accommodate _your_ limitations or should other strangers?

[@updownstate]

My sister and I wanted to go on a river tour but after looking into it we realized we aren't capable. A very sad realization.

[@queens6583]

@@melainewhite6409 I hope when your 74 and still cruising you remember your own words. People these days have no compassion for anyone but themselves. Sad!

[@melainewhite6409]

​@@queens6583 Sure, I'll bite. Rather than take the required steps to follow a tour's stated timeline, a person chooses to waste the time of strangers for their own benefit. Now who's the person or people not having compassion for anyone but themselves?

[@mehitabel6564]

Yes, we should always consider the least able in the group, that is basic kindness. Also, having viewed many cruise reviews and witnessed passengers disembarking from ships when I've been on holiday, I've realised that cruises are basically for people who want a guarantee of ease, comfort, and are often but not always less physically capable of exertions. For now, I enjoy physically active holidays - hiking, cycling, walking most of the day - but maybe when I get to the point I can no longer do those things, I'll consider cruising. And when I join a cruise, I'll also understand the limitations of a cruise.

[@TXMEDRGR]

Be kind to others, we are all fighting our own battles.

[@beatlejeff65]

Nothing ever goes as planned, so it's best to just go with the flow and enjoy the ride. But some people are only happy when it rains.

[@javdestiny]

Nothing ever goes as planned? Really?

[@dougb.2627]

That was nuts. Kudos to the woman of a certain age. Leaving to go shopping after being publicly admonished for being late is a brilliant display of passive aggressive resistance to intimidation.

[@josephfortenberry9124]

As others have said already, people just need to relax and enjoy life as it unfolds. There's no need to scorn the older lady for being late, because we ALL have been late to something at one time or another. And the tour guide was just brilliant. He doesn't work for those passengers, but for a company that has a contract to deliver said services. He did that. If people don't want to be rushed with their return time back to the ship, perhaps they need to not get off the ship or make later dinner reservations.

[@mileshigh1321]

Its pathetic to think someone wanted a bus tour cut short, and instead of seeing beautiful countryside, they needed to fill their gut at a certain time!

[@barbarahamper3750]

Your on vacation. Have fun. Don’t get upset about things you cannot control.

[@dougstimesharetravels9378]

We once had a tour guide ask the group, “What’s the difference between a tourist and a hitchhiker? 15 minutes. If you’re more than 15 minutes late getting back to the bus you’ll be hitchhiking back to town.” I thought it was a great line that I haven’t forgotten some 25 years after we heard it on a Hoover Dam tour out of Las Vegas

[@maryanncapece2623]

Hi Tony. Oh my.... I love your story time. Your delivery is spot on. People really need to show a little forgiveness to other's. I would be that person speaking up. "Someday you might not be able to get around as well as you do now". I think people just like to complain all the time. As always thank you for all you do.

[@TyreeTravels]

Are you saying that they would have complained even if she was back on time? I'm not so sure I would agree with that statement. I think some people just like things to work the way they're supposed to. Shouldn't we also show those people forgiveness when they're upset?

[@sandralynn1309]

You took the words right outta our mouths. We Love his Story time too. It is delightful to share the facts in a kind manner. Tony sprinkles the excursion details with humor. 🤓🤩 The phrase ___ "Seeds of Chaos" ___ captured our undivided attention.

[@brianlloyd9157]

I'll be honest. First cruise we ever took in 2004 on the Carnival Celebration, we were late about 10- 15 minutes back to the bus. I felt so bad and embarrassed as we boarded a full bus. We apologized to everyone and they, unlike this case, were understanding. I will say that experience haunts me to this day and my wife and I have never failed to be the first ones back on the bus on any excursion since. We are also understanding when these things happen because we too have been guilty.

[@sadjaxx]

I would hope everyone would understand being late once. ONCE.

[@Bopi2657]

No excuse for being late!

[@peggywillis554]

Crazy rude people

[@lynneryan2007]

If you have mobility issues you are aware of how much of the tour you can do and how much to omit. However, if the information given does not state how long the walk is to get to your venue you are going to struggle. Maybe one day you will be faced with a similar situation. I don't condone the lady being repeatedly late but the attitude towards her is sickening. Remember karma is a bitch i.e. female with a very long memory.

[@archerychampion]

I'm on Team Compassion! And nuts to the man with the 5pm dinner. If someone can't figure out that tours run delayed sometimes, then theydeserve to miss dinner. And a pox on the seed-sower of discontent! And We absolutely LOVE how you spin a tale! That's why we watch YOU!

[@hauserschannel]

I love the way you tell stories. Never miss your show! Pat

[@tnrodgers]

Dad told me years ago to “mind my own business.” It helped me to focus on my own issues and become less judgmental of others. I’m guessing everyone made the ship and dinner was still served? Safe travels Tony.

[@reneejones7807]

Excellent advice - we all sometimes forget to do that, and we'd be happier if we did!

[@patlaney4427]

Life goes on! I feel bad for that lady who was late, and upset with those people who got upset. You’re on vacation, relax, enjoy, and be kind!

[@oldmanfromoc7684]

Not one of those rude people would have helped the poor lady!

[@andy3408]

@@oldmanfromoc7684 my thoughts exactly. 👍

[@BKLYN71]

I don't feel sorry for the old lady. So 99% of the people that paid for an excursion on their vacation had to accept the inconvenience of one stranger? I would be furious!!!

[@MrTBoner1]

I do have compassion, but when you are told in advance what the situation is, the lady should have made some kind of arrangements for help, or not go. To cause an entire group to miss out or be rushed on something is selfish, and that could have been a once in a lifetime chance to do something.

[@pattimaeda6097]

Feel bad for the bad person?

[@brad_Ca]

People who have never cruised before, will often ask me about the people who I have met or observed onboard. I will usually give a standard answer which is; There are generally two types of people that you will see on a cruise, the nicest people in the world and the rudest people in the world. This will be quite evident especially at the elevators, buffets, theaters and excursions. It wasn’t difficult to differentiate between the two in this story that Tony gave us.

[@luvsmickey]

Love it!

[@behrens97]

Spot on

[@daffyduk77]

I'm in between the 2 - generally polite & understanding, but occasionally exasperated by other people's thoughtlessness or selfishness. And self-control helps to contain that. I suspect there is a "continuum" or range between the 2 extremes. Even the "nicest" have their breaking point

[@deanawagner-w5z]

We took our parents on a cruise. Had my mom in a transport wheelchair. The first few days of people shoving in front of her at the elevator were tolerated. After that, not so much. You really do see who the selfish and rude people are at the elevators.

[@0525ohhwell]

There is a rather large 3rd group and that is those of us that keep to ourselves and mind our own business. You just don't notice us. Remember that the next time you are dispensing wisdom to all of these people that allegedly ask you for info on cruising.

[@ruthgibson6475]

We were in the Galapagos and took a tour of one of the islands. A lady on our tour walked with 2 canes. The terrain was very uneven and rocky, it was very challenging for her to do the guided walking tour. It was slow going for all of us as we waited for her to finish each walking portion before the guide continued his talk. We didn’t mind but it did add over an hour to our tour. At the end she had to sit with her legs raised as she was obviously very uncomfortable. Kudos to her for wanting to go on the tour but sometimes I think some people disregard their physical limitations when deciding what to do on vacation.

[@sunniertimer598]

Maybe some kind soul will start a tour franchise for people with limited mobility giving them more time. So many issues could arise though.

[@MoosefromCanada]

🤣 yes ! Know your limitations…I had to rescue an older woman whilst snorkelling. It’s the Ocean not a pool! Big difference .

[@celesterinaldi3747]

😊

[@normanpearson8753]

The T&C s should have stated ppeople like her should ,, not go !

[@janne639]

​@Beth&Moose I had to rescue my sister, who was headed for the ocean while we were snorkeling in a lagoon in Cozumel. We were completely inexperienced and our tour guide was nowhere in sight. It was dumb luck that I caught sight of her heading for open water.

[@garyelliott2475]

Sorry in advance, this is a long one. We were on a Baltic cruise back in 2016. One stop was at Tallinn, Estonia (beautiful city and people). We had booked a walking tour from the cruise line. Note that is was called a “walking tour”. As soon as we got on the bus at the port, a somewhat elderly lady got on and in a loud voice said “I hope there isn’t too much walking on this tour”! Needless to say she struggled a bit. But then… we had a brief rest stop near the lookout from the old city wall. We walked pass an old church and our guide said “we can’t stop here because the line is too long”. You can guess what happened. The same lady and her friend disappeared. When it came time to move on, they were nowhere to be found. Even her husband didn’t know where they were. He and the guide searched the area for about 15 minutes as we cooled our heels. Then the husband said “let’s go!”, so off we went. About an hour or so later, we were at the location where the bus was picking us up. And guess who showed up! We were kind of glad she wasn’t lost, but THEN she demanded that the tour guide take them both back through the part of the tour that they missed! There was some crowd grumbling going on, and luckily the guide said “nope, we have to get you back to the ship”! The moral is, make sure your read the tour description!

[@garyelliott2475]

Second moral - listen to the tour guide!

[@tovahornung5007]

Tallin is a hike. Not easy for elderly. Hills. Tgey been a motorized scooter. Hard with cobblestones. They can't take it up to the upper town. They need an assistant. Too difficult. Beautiful town. Love that Danish church

[@WishesofShelle]

I think the cruise guides should have the discretion to vet people as they board, explaining in detail what the excursion details are and question their abilities. I think in certain situations it could be life saving. My 2 cents.

[@Remember_when]

Our friends went to Italy on a cruise and had the same person on two of their excursions. This person was 45 minutes late getting back to the bus on both excursions and they didn't get to see some of the sights they were supposed to see. Doing this twice on the same cruise shows that he did it on purpose with no regard for anyone else.

[@mysamcat601]

Good morning Tony! I love your videos. I would have been the compassionate one, I would have worried about the person that was late. I am glad she was ok. My mom was like the complaining lady, but louder. She would have probably demanded to see the manager😂 I was embarrassed alot growing up. All those people should be like you Tony. Grateful to be there, enjoy where you are!

[@katemarshall7439]

This made me laugh, because my father, normally a kind, tolerant man, had a thing about waiting in lines and would sometimes rope me into nasty comments about the cashier or customer at the till. One day at Homedepot he tried this and I said “if you don’t stop, I’m going to say ‘aren’t you the rude old guy, am I ever glad I don’t know you’ loudly.” He said, you wouldn’t, I said, try me. He laughed & never did it again.

[@southerncaladygolfer8651]

When touring Porto while on my last cruise in October we had one man who constantly kept wondering off during several tours. In Porto our guide did his best to keep track of him….there were only about 10 of us on the tour. When it was time to get back on the bus said man was nowhere to be found. It was time to get back to the ship and we had about a 45-60 minute ride ahead of us. I think it is safe to say that we were all frustrated. The guide kept taking off in different directions looking for him and when the guide returned for the last time said man’s partner said I have been trying to call him, he isn’t answering and he does this all the time. I left him a message and told him we are leaving and I will meet up with him when we disembark tomorrow. We actually left him! Oceania was not at all happy and that was when we realized that it was said man’s name that was paged in almost every port because he had not returned to the ship. We never found out what happened….we do know that we sailed without him. We felt terrible for the guide who more than ever earned his paycheck and the extra high tips we all gave him for finally leaving the man behind. It was a crazy day!

[@donb2480]

People have to be patient while on vacation especially for older individuals.

[@theoztreecrasher2647]

Well either that or perhaps ask the tour guide to stop at the nearest Funeral Home to do a measure up for them. 🤔😉

[@andreatuckman1084]

Both my husband and myself have back issues and no longer book group excursions that require a lot of walking. We know our limitations. If we want to see something special, we go on our own and take our time without worrying about keeping up with the group. That elderly lady should have considered her inability to walk fifteen minutes at a fast pace before she booked the excursion.

[@lornekay8948]

I have been on many cruise excursions and have always been on time and yet on two occasions I was left behind. The first occasion the bus left five minutes early and the second occasion the bus left FIFTEEN minutes early. On both occasions my fellow cruisers convinced the tour guide/bus driver that they were “all here”. Nobody notices the Solo cruiser. I commend that tour guide for taking an accurate count and waiting for that lady. PLEASE be patient and do not pressure the tour operator to get you back to the ship early for your own convenience. That’s just plain selfish.

[@michelealkins616]

Wow! I would never expect anyone to be left behind if they weren’t late. So sorry that happened to you! I’ve had tour guides stoke up the group to get us to agree to leave people behind who weren’t even late. But we all rightly vetoed his suggestion. I was disgusted that he even considered it, much less took a vote!!

[@SeanSullivan1958]

I hope the tour company forked over the money you needed to spend to get back to the boat. I know I would be on the phone to them immediately telling them to call me an uber or taxi.

[@nancybryant4325]

I was on an excursion in Germany. We were told to each pick a person we didn't know to keep track of. Every time we moved on to a different place we were to make sure that person was there.

[@lornekay8948]

@@SeanSullivan1958 yes on both occasions the tour operator reimbursed me for my cab fare

[@littlebigman6957]

The driver or tour guide should have done a head count. NEVER, NEVER. believe passengers. If all passengers are back early, then no problems but always count heads by physically walking up and down the coach.

[@Alexander-mo7ke]

This eposode reminds me of a tour that I just went to Poland and we had one particular lady who always turns out late for about 5 times in a row. The Tour leader was so annoyed by her that he eventually told her that he is going to refund her the money for the next tour which he has already orginised and she had booked. Sometimes one has to be careful not to cross the line so often as that would annoy others. In life one has to be considerate too.

[@larrypaulhus9294]

Hi Tony, I am always amazed at those who cannot be flexible with their schedules while on vacation. I have to keep a close schedule when I work. While I never want to be the last person back to the tour bus while on vacation, I try not to make my plans so rigid that it cannot accommodate changes. Life is tough enough. It is important to learn to relax when you can and enjoy your vacation, even when it includes unexpected surprises. Thanks for the story of your uncomfortable bus ride. I just hope the poor tour guide was not stiffed for tips because of the disgruntled among his charges.

[@dianej1714]

Oh I guarantee the guide & driver were stiffed. But not by Tony, of course!

[@debbiekeltz-wolk7691]

I used to do a lot of bus tours before I discovered cruising. There was often a lot of drama. I went solo on one tour around the islands of Hawaii. I was stuck with a roommate. She was old, nasty and hated having to share a room with me. She slept (or often didn't sleep) with the light on all night. She was extremely rude to me and everyone else around her both on the tour and locals. She expected that I would carry her luggage because I was young. The first time she ever met me and I introduced myself she said wow you are the fattest vegetarian I have ever met. Well the rest of the tour started to notice how horrible this woman was and nobody would help her with her luggage as the common adage on a tour is if you pack it you carry it. She was always late back to the bus. Well, everyone on the tour started saying that they should just leave her if she was late. Nobody wanted to be on the same bus with her or sit next to her. If we saw here in a location we'd do an about face and walk in the other direction. It got so bad that I had to approach the tour manager and ask for my own room. I ended up having to pay extra for my own room, but the peace was well worth the money.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

I hope she had to pay extra for her room

[@rodneyelylesrealestate]

Why can't people chill out and relax more on their vacation? Folks are so tensed up that they miss the big purpose in taking a vacation to begin with! I would have been like you, just grateful to be on the journey.

[@Edera7795]

It is called being a control freak. I have been on a number of Tours in England. I can always find something to eat on the ship. Show me everything you got and put a muzzle on the control freaks.

[@chazcov08]

@@Edera7795 Right. You just let other people's inconsiderate behavior that directly affects your experience (that you pay for, mind you) go. Right? BS.

[@georgejoseph9879]

Tony, your delivery to the story was spot on…. I was laughing over my coffee this morning.

[@jonkrispeterson6678]

Such a great storyteller you are.

[@joywebster2678]

As the slightly slower mobility impaired person, I take note to g8ve myself extra time to get places, and to meet ups. I carry a small lite paperback in case I'm too early. So compassion is I deed needed but those of us with challenges need to be realistic when if involves others time.

[@JohnandCaraRetiredTravellers]

Whoa what an experience!! Everyone just needs to chill….and WHY would you book 5’o’clock dinner reservations after an excursion!!!! This to me is just as crazy as the crazy woman complaining! Great recap thanks Tony for always being the gentleman. ~Cara 😊

[@NewMexico-FrankJen]

Kindness is important and some people are just tight as a tick and bossy and no fun to be around. We really enjoyed this vlog….you have an amazing attitude and so funny!

[@sharronjohnson6592]

The voice of compassion, I would’ve been worried that something had happened to the person.

[@lisalettenmaier6718]

I’ve traveled with people who are on a schedule on trips! What happened to enjoying yourselves! Yes she needed to be back on time but really show some compassion people! I agree with o5er comments that no one is going to starve! I don’t plan on reserving dinner on excursion days since I’m usually too tired! Lol You are a great storyteller! Keep up the good work and don’t get too discouraged by silly people! ❤️❤️❤️

[@snufflesdawg1934]

This is one of those "everybody sucks here" situations. The late lady should have defused the situation by apologizing for being late and thanking everybody for their patience. That would have shut up the grumblers, who would have appreciated being appreciated. By being silent, that leads to assumptions from those waiting that she was taking her sweet time for no reason. Absent any explanations, people will create their own uncharitable reasons.

[@audreyann4777]

Yes! Exactly! The only way I would be late is a VERY good reason. Apologizing should have been her first response when getting on the bus.

[@javdestiny]

Yes, apologizing profusely for making everyone wait and thanking everyone for their patience would have gone a long way.

[@TyreeTravels]

Also maybe she could have bought everybody a pint. 😂

[@Maililnajul]

On a cruise as I listen to your podcast. You told the story so well. My watch timer is my friend. This old lady doesn’t want to be the one that is late.

[@mehitabel6564]

At a lot of older historic sites, walking is inevitable and sometimes challenging, and traffic delays unpredictable and often inevitable. All one can do is to chill.

[@pcourtney1000]

As the cruise ship turns.. lol. Good morning everyone! Have a great day!

[@bruinfantasy]

Back in 2016, we were on a cruise and went on an excursion to Voltera in Italy. A wonderful city with shops and obviously a tricky street layout. During the shopping time, my wife went to the bathroom next to the store we were in with my daughter. My daughter returned, no wife. She went right out of the bathroom rather than left. Cell service was abysmal at best. It took an hour to find her. The guide was incredible and recruited locals to assist. A few folks on the tour helped as well though the guide kept it to a few as he didn't want others to get lost. We found her, she had the sense to go into a hospital. When we got back to the bus, she felt aweful and was in tears. The people on that bus were so rude and made.commenta while my two daughters were on the bus visibly shaken and upset. It's unfortunate that we can't be kinder, especially to those in need and children. From that point forward, we always make sure that we stay together and book excursions through the cruise line. When we got back, my daughters told me about what was said and I had some words for those folks. Coincidentally, they didn't say anything when we got back. I guess those folks were more comfortable making a couple of worried children more scared than saying something to the 6'4" guy who was probably 10-15 years younger than most on the bus. There were kind souls on that bus, but many who weren't. One thing is giving an adult a hard time but children in a time of vulnerability? I only share this in hopes that people will take the high road if in the same situation. Needless to say, I gave the tour guide a generous tip and tried to tip the folks who assisted but graciously refused. My wife was visibly distraught and they felt so happy to just be of help. It only takes a second to take a wrong turn. We learned some valuable lessons that day

[@sadjaxx]

Life happens and people should be understanding because it can always be you in that situation. It is the repeat offenders who just do not give a damn who need to be addressed.

[@LynetteEdsall]

Canterbury is very problematic because it is so popular. We chaperoned a group of high school students to England and France in 2003. We weren't aware of the hike we had to take from the bus park to the cathedral and there were several folks in that group with mobility issues (me included). I wish tour companies would spell it out that there is a hike involved. In Jamaica in 2015, someone at the back of the bus was loudly complaining that we were going to be late and kept asking very loudly about how soon would we get back to port. The person across the aisle from me said "when the front end arrives, the back end will to!" and the bus erupted in laughter.🤣🤣

[@deeskaggs4087]

love your humorous remarks regarding normal human behavior. (wish I could give more than one thumbs up) 👍🏼 thumbs up 👍🏼

[@mercyrodriguez5780]

Thank you for taking us on your journey, loved the tour bus story!

[@johnrosenstrom3980]

Enjoyed this excursion "tale". We've had similar experiences and usually tell the guilty party, last one on the bus buys the first round. Cheers!

[@bobbymeyer5306]

Sounds like the best part of the excursion was the drama! 😎

[@glorialafollette61]

I’ve been on many shore excursions and there is always that one person one couple that are always late. They act so entitled. It’s so inconsiderate to everyone else on the bus.

[@teriwilliams8680]

Unless there was a possibility of you missing the ship or if you had to skip something on an excursion you paid for, then those people should keep their comments to themselves and enjoy the fact that you are on a wonderful vacation. Seriously... Kindness and understanding go a long way.

[@TyreeTravels]

Not a fan of free speech?

[@midnightsun553]

You had me cracking up😂. You’re a great storyteller!

[@amandadean3948]

My hats off to anyone who can stand being in service industry/customer service type positions. People today are so whiny and entitled. It would drive me nuts!

[@heathdurbin]

That is the whole point of going on a shore excursion with the cruise line, is that you can take longer and mess around and not worry about not getting back to the ship. The grumpy need to get a grip.

[@loismeyer9417]

Excellent story on "human nature"! Thanks for sharing it. So sad that this one lady missed so much because her attitude clouded her eyes to how much beauty was around her and how. much fun it was to see all the things that you did. I love the way that you can take a negative situation, Tony, and let it flow past you and even tell the story in such a way that you just reports the facts and doesn't take sides. You're an excellent "reporter"!! I'm glad you enjoy yourself in-spite of "human nature" filling the bus - well done!

[@laurab32550]

great story! I've been to Leeds Castle a few times... and yes, I have done that long walk. It's lovely there.... sorry you didn't get much time to visit.

[@charliedurham4248]

A wise man once said, "people are a$$holes."

[@prussiaaero1802]

Yep!

[@AKMOOSE]

Go with the flow. And I did that same tour years ago and the weather was perfect like your day, which is unusual for Kent

[@margienisbet2575]

Oh my word relax people your on vacation enjoy the ride. Your dinner will be there when you get back😅

[@melissa.s.13]

Oh my goodness Tony! LOL! I love your humor and patience and especially your storytelling. You are a master! :)

[@jenniferbelasco6362]

The facial expressions with the story telling never fails on this channel. It makes the story so vivid, love it 😂 Thanks!

[@LoriPeace]

I'm so glad to have found your channel! Great story, well told. And I agree with folks below who wondered why someone thought the tour should get back early because they had made dinner reservations that conflicted with the tour. This is the tour's problem how?? New subscriber. 😊

[@LittleAmyHe]

Also, I love that the late lady probably went “shopping” 10 minutes before the bus arrived just to anger the rude lady.

[@stacym735]

I was thinking the same thing. I probably would have! 😄

[@dannydarko6929]

The "shopping" lady, is the "rude" lady.

[@elsajones6325]

Problem- solution. Wheel barrows to help the hobblers along. There will always be stragglers!

[@queens6583]

@@dannydarko6929 She was early and the shop was probably within sight of the bus depot because she was back 5 mins before bus arrived. Probably wanted to piss off the other ladies. Besides why did those other women have to tell people on another tour anything? You think they cared? They probably were happy those ladies weren't on their tour.

[@verucasalt2391]

That’s pretty passive aggressive, probably not the correct decision when you have a bus load of people upset with you. Some people think the world revolves around them…….it doesn’t. Anyone that would intentionally anger people that are already annoyed with them need to be left behind.

[@anitahornbrook745]

You told the story in a very amusing way! I’m glad you enjoyed what you saw of my country

[@williamjusick2404]

Some people need to loosen up!

[@myrabarr7898]

Compassion ALWAYS wins 💞

[@matthewpickett5238]

That sounds like quite the adventure. You gotta love the people you meet during excursions!

[@richardjenkins4513]

You are a great storyteller😊 love listening to you..

[@charlottedowns6652]

Great video Tony! Loved your narrative of situation! It is pitiful how some grown adults can act! Hope you are enjoying trip!!

[@markbass9402]

All and all a great video. You are very good at this. You need more video clips and photos. You could go strait to the top. A true story teller! Thank you.

[@geoffdrew5207]

The lady knew how long it would take her to get back to the bus as she had just made the walk. She made the decision to keep everyone waiting which shows what sort of person she is. I would not have waited for her.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

I agree with you, !! if she has trouble walking or walking extremely slow then she should allow for that because the people that arrived on time probably arrived 15 to 20 minutes early so that meant they had to wait another 20 minutes for her roughly so that must might’ve meant they waited 30 to 40 minutes for her. I do think the overdid it with the complaining, but I can see how they got frustrated with waiting for her. I hope the cruise lines put different levels of activity on the cruise descriptions like some of them do some people need to consider if they bother to read some really mild activity and some rated strenuous activity level.

[@abigailgerlach5443]

Some people are wound a bit tight. Some people are not capable of letting things go. What an uncomfortable trip! I hope the sights were worth seeing regardless.

[@algailewing6405]

What people forget is that one day they will be an older person and have issues. They will be the ones being late. I hope when that happens people are more compassionate. Why do people have to be so terrible?

[@theoztreecrasher2647]

The Esquimos used to just leave their elderly out on the ice when they became such a burden as to endanger the livelihood of the rest of the family. If you are "an older person and have issues" than adapt yourself to your circumstances and make yourself of some value to the group, not just a pest. I personally find many elderly folks very worthwhile company with their depth of experience but some are just as self-centered and inconsiderate as the worst brainless teenager.

[@brandonpiazza6210]

This is a common mistake. I’ve done it myself. When your reading about the glamour and pageantry of a tour that promises the whole of a country in one neatly packed day, it’s easy to assume a full day out is no problem! But when your on vacation and there’s a thousand things on the ship you could be doing or not doing, an 8 hour tour becomes an arduous task! I don’t book tours anymore that are more than 4 hours. By then, I’m ready for my “cocktail of the day” and a lazy nap 😴! I hate feeling trapped on a tour when I’m ready to return! I think you got some tired, cranky, vacationers throwing a tantrum. Not acceptable but a good cautionary tale (Canterbury) to keep in mind when booking tours!

[@RosalineCTench]

Wonderful Tony! Great presentation!

[@deanna5612]

I'm a nurse that works in a nursing home and I would have protected the older woman. It doesn't matter be nice and show some compassion. Have a gentle and kind day.😊

[@sumofitsparts1824]

It’s really disappointing that people have so little patience and understanding for others. It’s never appropriate to be this rude, particularly to an older person. When in a group, it’s best to manage your expectations and go with the flow. No need to turn a good day into an a bad day. No one benefits from that.

[@sueb4368]

As a person with mobility issues who is determined to experience life as much as possible, I sympathize with the late lady. That was really RUDE of the Karen who was complaining to strangers. I probably would have called her out then and there (yes, I'm one of those people). How insensitive. This kind of thing always happens in groups and especially with older people who should know better. If you don't pay extra for dinner reservations, best not to get upset about it. Tours have problems and you just have to go with it.

[@amandareiche9083]

As a person in my mid-seventies, who is still working to rehab two knee replacements to as near to 100% as possible, I am convinced that the selfishness gene controls far too many people. Those people will not deter me from cruising or taking excursions, but I sure won't dine with them.

[@charlayned]

I'm in a wheelchair. It doesn't fold up and climbing into a bus isn't going to happen. No excursion I've seen yet will accommodate me. Do I gripe and complain? No, because I'm one person and it's good everyone else to get to do it. I can live vicariously by the stories and maybe some of the photos. It's okay. People are different and the ones who mistreated that woman should be thankful they can do things they can do. They could have problems that prevent going. Sad. :( We leave a week from Sunday for a 7-day Caribbean trip. We're excited. We'll get off the ship, go to the dock, see what we can see, and go back. I'm taking a book, it'll be a quiet time. Maybe get my swim on a bit. Or nap. I'm excited to be going.

[@marymarin1152]

@@charlayned I hope you enjoy and have a great time!!

[@LittleAmyHe]

@@charlayned Hi! I am a wheelchair user myself and a travel advisor that specializes in accessibility and luxury. Just wanted to let you know there are more and more wheelchair accessible excursion options nowadays. Just sucks it might not be through the cruise itself.

[@Catlady003]

I am almost 56 and don’t look disabled by just looking. I use a rollator or wheelchair if walk is too long. I also live vicariously through the YT cruise channels but I have been on 3 cruises. People can be very rude when they are able bodied and jump in front of me when I am there first attempting to get in the elevator/lift. I just wish that people would be more courteous. I have Lupus/heart/lung problems among a long list. I live my life to the fullest that I am able and enjoy each day positively. It doesn’t sound like it but I do ❤❤❤❤

[@MrTBoner1]

I was sailing down the Turkish coast with 20 people on two boats. We were to explore several islands on the way to our destination. After touring the first island, we were two people short at our departing time. 45 minutes later, here comes the couple laughing and having a ball, while were are all sitting on a bus waiting for them. No one said anything to them, but the captain reminded the whole bus to be on time. Since they were so late, we had to skip an island and go to the next one. We were reminded again to be on time. Well, you guessed it. The same couple was over a half an hour late, and we were going to miss another island. No one said anything again, so I spoke up and told the couple how inconsiderate they were, and their disregard of time caused everyone to lose out on visiting three island that we were scheduled to go on. They didn't even apologize, but went on and on about everything they got to see. That is entitlement. This is why I don't care for group tours.

[@thomasformanek465]

As our buddy Don always says, don't forget to pack your patience on vacations.

[@SuperCycle2]

The reason we book excursions is we know we will get back to the ship, and if we are late, they will wait. Nothing worse than standing on your balcony watching somebody run for the ship only to see them get left behind. I guess I'm not as stressed as other people on vacation. I go on vacation to relax and not get stressed out.

[@JAM661]

The ship can also make up time if they leave port late. We waited for a couple for like 90 minutes but they were like at the ER and the ship wanted the one of them to see a doctor for something so the ship knew they were running late.

[@MPrice-ni5pv]

Your tale of Canterbury was most colorful and full of drama and suspense!

[@mrrichlivinglarge]

Loved the story Tony! You’re a great story teller and you are always funny as heck

[@bemomhomemaking7602]

Sad people!! Thanks for not making that poor, elderly lady look like some horrible criminal! Good story! Glad you could enjoy yourself! I hope the rest of her cruise was ok.

[@sylviekins]

That poor lady, likely struggled in pain to get back and then be greeted by such unkindness. Very disappointing and rude of others to be so lacking in compassion.

[@KimberlyLetsGo]

She didn't seem to be in too much pain to leave the bus the second time and then return again. LOL

[@pattimaeda6097]

Oh well…

[@bettyditillo1425]

You are a very good story teller

[@DonnaBMacK]

Relax. Enjoy your surroundings and give the lady a break. I wonder if it would have been the same verbal bullying if it had been a man who was late. Thank you Tony once again for showing compassion.

[@chazcov08]

Yes, a man would have gotten it, maybe even more so. The sex of the inconsiderate person is inconsequential.

[@kristenevans4557]

The voice of compassion is always always ALWAYS the right voice to be because such by the grace of God go we.

[@dollyc4314]

Sad. When I see someone who is older, I think of my Grandparents, maybe my elderly Mom, and I add "Someday that could be me". I am so grateful for people who care about the elderly and don't debase them. Think people! Don't be that bully!

[@sallykrueger6322]

Do you think this is why some excursions now have age limits? Years ago we did a hop on hop off kind of day in Boston. We were very prompt about being at our pick up points as scheduled. the bus never came or we waited 20 min. or more. Wasted a huge amount of time. At each stop As we exited the bus we would inquire when the next bus was coming since clearly they were behind. They replied they faithfully stick to their schedule. We even asked what to do if the bus never showed up. At the end of the day, when we returned to where we bought tickets we asked for our money back as they had not provided the service as promised. They refunded our money because they had a money back guarantee.