People Still Fall For These Caribbean Cruise Traps!

[@dumdum3470]

I absolutely agree to get excursions from the locals. In St Lucia I hired a guy fir 5 of us. He was ready. His wife prepared a HUGH and delicious lunch in beautiful surroundings, which included drinks. He took us ALL OVER, including mud bath and we even visited a local pool hall to spend time with locals. He was a really smart guy who talked about the island and he made us feel like we were his best friends. ALL this, fir 10.00 per person. Of course we each tipped another 10.00 . This was the highlight if my cruise. Some other friends opted fir a tour to someone's gardens for 5x what we paid, and they hated it. I always try to hire locals. It puts money into their economy and allows you to determine where you want to go. It has always been wonderful. Highly recommend it

[@stephaniesanchez2057]

Hard to hire locals without knowing where to look and who to trust though

[@Nunya_Bidness_53]

Whole fun of travel us getting to know the people, just be cautious

[@Thomas998822]

@@stephaniesanchez2057 such is life...many things that many people can explore, research and find easily...is very hard for others. Fear is also a big factor.

[@ezaxis]

If you are on an excursion booked through the cruise ship and something happens like a bus breakdown, the ship will wait for you. If booked outside of the cruise line and you are late to return, you will have to figure out how to get to the next port on your own. I have had good luck in the past not using the the ship's excursions, but it is a risk to keep in mind.

[@nikitahofschneider7026]

Ii I’m

[@susanwestfall2051]

Once in Mexico we decided on a local excursion which took us up into the mountains. Had a good time, but when it came time to leave, the bus wouldn’t start. It took quite a while, but the driver, with some help from locals, got it going again. We made the ship but it was harrowing to say the least. Such unforeseen things like that, or heavy traffic or an accident are always possibilities. It impacted us enough that we take ONLY ship’s excursions. Plus we (sister and I) are older and like the comfort of knowing the cruise line “has our backs.”

[@Scott__C]

Yes, and a company can say they guarantee you back to the ship, but they can't hold the ship.

[@jeromep]

So, here is how cruise line “back to ship guarantees work”. If the excursion is delayed, they will communicate with the ship. The ship will coordinate with the tour operator, and, if possible, may delay departure if the operator has a plan on how to get the pax back to the ship. If the ship cannot delay, then the cruise line works with the local port agent and tour operator to provide lodging and transportation to the affected pax to get to the ship at the next port which is reasonable to fly pax to. I don’t have a clue who is on the hook to pay for pax lodging and food, or who handles all the arrangements to move folks around, but I suspect that the tour operator is responsible for costs. The port agent and cruise line are likely responsible for arrangements. Note how all ship sold excursions seem to have plenty of time cushion built into them relative to ship return times?

[@maebandy]

Unless you fall off the boat.

[@TheFortissimo1]

Sounds like you work for a cruise line 😮‍💨

[@Freegrace22]

@@TheFortissimo1 or he’s smart!

[@JordynT93]

Floridian here: There are also Cruise ports in Tampa and Jacksonville, too! In case some people didn't know, I wanted to make sure that people knew they could have more variety of choice if they're set on sailing from FL 🙂

[@tipsfortravellers]

Good point !!!

[@maryk5166]

Jacksonville is a wonderful port to cruise out of.

[@karyndewit193]

I believe I’ve sailed out of both on Carnival.

[@katcalico9142]

I wish there were more ships sailing out of Jacksonville!!

[@DHarri9977]

Fort Lauderdale, at least they did at one point.

[@calbob750]

You mentioned the shopping trap. My wife and I cruised to the Caribbean with my brother and his wife on Carnival. He wanted to buy his wife a diamond ring and was introduced to diamond sales by staff on the ship. When they arrived at a port of call they went to the Jewelry shop and met with the rep from the ship for the purchase. They were now on a first name basis.They paid top dollar for a diamond which years later was appraised to be a an inferior diamond. I’m surprised that so many people think jewelry and art pitched by representatives on a ship is a bargain. Caveat Emptor.

[@brucemarsico6]

Painful lesson....I won't buy any baubles from the cruise ships...nor from the port shops. Just being in the chaos (cozumel) of thousands of tourists milling around, popping in and out of shops, the owners of those shops know they won't see you again. A lot of substandard junk is sold.....Maybe Grand Cayman is genuine, Jamaica, never. Puerto Rico...not too well known for fine jewelry.

[@JSB103]

Going on a Cruise and "hunting" for quality jewelry don't belong in the same Universe. Fine jewelry is sold where wealthy people go, and the finest only where the richest go; _and even then you have to watch out as if you were in Monroe, Louisiana._

[@Keep-on-ok]

Check out a Moissanite stone. Much less expensive, almost as hard and I think much more beautiful. I own diamonds and Moissanite jewelry. You really cannot tell the difference except the Moissanite reflects more colors!

[@thisismagacountry1318]

You mean my Velvet Elvis and Dogs Playing Poker aren't priceless works of art?

[@brucemarsico6]

@@thisismagacountry1318 They are to you and to every one else that has them and then insists on hanging them where every one else has to see them..........

[@garytyndall8271]

The biggest disappointment for me was the alleged duty free ports shopping centres, through out the carabian I noticed the shop owners were not native . The locals have been demoted to nothing more than waiters and cab drivers ,or pass out flyer boys , once was enough for me . I only used local shops run by locals

[@paulcolburn3855]

Unfortunately Gary, these large international retailers can't ask the locals to do what you expect them to do. You can't have them pricing diamonds in a diamond store. That will never happen. And they are likely to steal. you can't have them selling alcohol because once again, theft. The locals could work the 'Del Sol" shop at the port (maybe) and hand out Del Sol t-shirts but not work the register. That requires literacy and that is not as common among the locals in the Caribbean as you and I would like to believe. And you can't trust them around the cash. So they are stuck in jobs like cab driver or waiter or handing out flyers.

[@konichiwa3744]

Locals hard to understand over charge. Rather have a showered Cali hippie sell me fridge magnets.

[@TheGrmany69]

That's usually because the original owners of the properties have sold the property to a foreigner, legally or not. "locals" are not "Amerindians" on a regular basis.

[@peter-pg5yc]

try cabo san lucas why bother going to mexico..

[@bawintermage8351]

@@konichiwa3744 Then stay home. The purpose of travel is to meet different people, eat different food, see different sights and to have new experiences that will expand your mental horizons. If some sanitized version of the world is all you are after, then ride it's a small world at Disney or go to Epcot.

[@queenboudicca31]

Another Floridian. I have cruised out of Port Canaveral, Port of Tampa, Port Everglades, and Port of Miami. I must admit, it was amazing to sail out of Miami. It was like being part of a parade of ships, just awesome.

[@reinokarvinen8845]

I remember it was a party feeling every time we left Miami. I used to work on them

[@QueenSuperJ]

Totally accurate description! Cruising out of or in to Miami on a Sunday is really an experience within an experience. I was on my aft facing balcony at 3 am an I counted 8 other ships heading to Miami. The great vacation race! 😂

[@indiewest7200]

I love that you create awareness of the tourists dollars going to the locals. Thank you.

[@hw476]

The best holiday I ever had was sailing out of New York to the Caribbean in June 2018. It was a solo holiday. I flew into Newark from Heathrow and the majority of the passengers on the Anthem of the Seas were American. Fab time and made some firm friends. Absolutely loved it.

[@karalynne7616]

Yes I have to agree! I sailed solo on Anthem from Cape Liberty to Caribbean a month later than you, July 2018! LOVE Anthem! 💙🛳

[@andrewdutton3831]

Cool! Glad it worked out well for you. My daughter and I sometimes go down to Bayonne and watch that ship (Anthem) leave port at 3 pm on Sundays.

[@AisforAlibi1]

Back in 1986 when I took my one and only cruise, I don't remember cruising being so complicated. I paid my fare, got on one of NCL's nice ships, relaxed and enjoyed my cruise. I don't remember obsessing over the size of the ship, getting the best drinks package, taking shore excursions or finding a nice place to sit by the pool. I remember taking one (and only one) excursion to the off-ship island and found a lovely spot near some sand dunes to while away my time by reading a book. From the looks of it, today, that nicely remembered peaceful quiet off-ship island appears to be a mini-Disney World. The on-ship experience itself is a carnival with every kind of imaginable ride, sport, or game to be played and a labyrinth of so many options (entertainment, drinks packages, dining options, etc.) that it takes a personal Event Planner to help you keep up with all of it. I'm not a withered ogre, but if I'm going to pay today's high cruise prices (something else that requires a computer programmer to navigate for you so you be sure to get the best price), I want nothing but peace and quiet. So, that's my tip to myself - don't bother with a stressful anxiety-inducing vacation - stay off cruise ships and you will be happy.

[@PreservationEnthusiast]

Don't forget he has to make 13 minutes of "content" so he'll bring in all kinds of stuff to fill time. Some of that stuff will not be very important!

[@flesz_]

Life in the past was better. Now you need to be rich to enjoy peace. Other way you will be part of the crowd of commoners. I would prefer to have a quiet walk in forest than be among bunch of plebs

[@PreservationEnthusiast]

@@el-maiki Good point although he does err on the repetitive side both within videos and over the course of several videos on similar subjects. The YT algorithm ranks newer videos higher, so there is always pressure to bring out another video to stay ahead. The side effect for the viewer means there will be a certain amount of repetition.

[@rt66vintage16]

@@el-maiki ikr? The shopping scenes were chaotic, and I don't think many men like being dragged to every little shop. Exhausting!

[@ExestentialCrisis]

I do the same. Have been on a few cruises where I didn't even get off the ship at a port. Just a book and a lounge chair for the day. You can still do these things and not pay one iota of attention to the folks who are shopoholics. First thing I check out when booking a cruise is to check if the ship has a library.

[@susanhunt8373]

Hi I sailed from Sydney to Hong Kong 18 nights We had an inside cabin as did 2 other couples our other friends had a balcony. You are so right as we spent nearly all of time on the open decks except for showering, dressing and sleeping oh and ablutions. Never felt uncomfortable or claustrophobic at all.

[@randyharbour8633]

Hi Gary, yes, I do like this format as a nice change of pace. Add it to your repertoire but do not stop your other blogs or the Q&A.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great thanks!! Agree it’s just something to do every now and then

[@loumello8813]

Since we have been to the Caribbean so many times over the years, we usually will not do the shopping thing very much and will do places on our own as long as we know we are not risking getting back to the ship on time. We do different types of excursions in places we have been to and that helps with the whole experience. This is a very nice way to do the videos with the lovely scenery from the places you have been to.

[@thecougarexperience]

I have to tell you, I’m about to go on my first cruise this weekend and I’ve been binge watching your channel. You’re a life saver!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching! Have a great cruise !

[@tiffanysantana7333]

Have fun!!

[@anthonynelson1187]

how was it?

[@thecougarexperience]

@@anthonynelson1187 it was awesome! I’m hooked!!

[@beachbumlife]

He gives terrible advice.

[@JGlennFL]

One caveat about mid Nov. - mid Dec. timeframe; Thanksgiving week at the end of November is one of the busiest and most expensive of the year. But I LOVE the first week of Dec. Great fares, normally good weather and ships are decorated for Christmas.

[@larry4111]

Great tips! Another mistake is assuming you need to buy a beach excursion. My very first port on my very first cruise I'd decided to go to the beach and had booked an excursion. The moment we got off the ship I realized I'd goofed when I saw dozens of people walking to a free beach that was right there. Next time I went I looked for beaches I could walk to (or just take a cab for less money than the excursion). Likewise, as you mentioned, third party sites can be much less expensive. I book with Shore Excursions Group and find the exact same excursions for much less than what the cruise lines charge. This can be the case even taking into account the $50 per port credit that NCL usually gives. It can be a trap!

[@lauramata4244]

If a problem happens with a ship sponsored excursion... The ship waits for you if you are late. If you privately nook an excursion, the ship does not wait for you.

[@larry4111]

@@lauramata4244 That's what I always believed, too - and told people over the years. But here's the thing. The big third party companies like the ones Gary mentioned have a guarantee to get you back to the ship in time. He mentioned that in the video, too. For example, Shore Excursions Group says, "We have never had a customer miss their ship. Our team possesses over 80 years of combined cruise line experience and we are not aware of a single case in which a customer on an independent tour missed a ship. In the extremely unlikely event that you miss your ship due to the late arrival of one of our tours, we will arrange and pay for your accommodations, meals, and transportation to the next port of call, and we will pay you an additional $1,000 USD per customer for the inconvenience." Others have a similar guarantee. I never booked outside the cruise line for the reason you said - I thought it was risky.

[@jameslehr9439]

@@larry4111 k

[@supertouring1]

@@lauramata4244 Comes down to risk (missing your cruise) vs reward (saving some money.)😅

[@coz7891]

@@lauramata4244 The private excursions can contact the ship directly & let them know to wait. I've seen it done.

[@davida8052]

I just went to Coco Cay Royals private island two weeks ago. It was my first time and I like it best out of all the Eastern Caribbean Islands we visited because it felt really clean, safe, all the food and drinks were included. It was just so relaxing. I realize it's not a real experience but some times the real side of these Caribbean islands is not so great.

[@warrenmadden2586]

I nodded in agreement regarding the trap of only going on large ships. My wife and I went on a Windjammer Barefoot Cruise back in the late 90s (really miss that line), and we stopped at Dominica a couple of hours before a big (for the time) Carnival ship pulled in. The guide our small group (less than ten) hired took us on a hike that led to a beautiful waterfall, which we got to swim beneath. On the way back, we passed an overlook of the falls, now crowded with scores of Carnival passengers. We saw some of them pointing to us, and asked our guide why. He replied that they were likely asking why we got to go to the falls while they stopped at the overlook. He told us that the guides weren't allowed to bring large groups to the falls to protect them from damage. Just one of the reasons I prefer the smaller vessels over the huge behemoths!

[@susandhifaoui]

I have often wondered what happened to Windjammer Cruises! They used to be in all the travel magazines all the time.

[@warrenmadden2586]

@@susandhifaoui Sadly, they went out of business in late 2007/early 2008.

[@markt9805]

They had financial issues, the founder of the company ran it very well and was very hands-on. He was an astute businessman and clearly built the company into a profitable entity. After his demise his children tried to operate the company and they really ran it into the ground, Well I should say they ran the ships up on to a sandbar, let’s leave it at that. Poor business decisions.

[@kdbee6086]

On our first cruise, Hubs did fall into a tourist trap at our first port (St Maartin), but it ended up being positive. We took an "island tour" with one of the local drivers. Her name was Mama, and she was one of the recommended guides from the ship. She had been a teacher. Hubs said he really wanted to see the whole island, and we did! She essentially took us on a "tour" of the entire island perimeter. It took the whole day, and we did visit some great local spots. We got great food at one of the lolos. We saw the tourist and third world sides of the island. I hung out with her a good bit while Hubs did the kid stuff. She was a very lovely person and I met several of her colleagues who were also very nice (I learned how to cook iguana!) Would I do it again? Probably not. But we did get a real sense of the cultures and the people of the islands aside from the tourist stuff. Of everything we did during that cruise, I remember that the most.

[@dannyfitzpatrick9783]

Oh, it was so amazing to hear about Hubs and you and Hubs. Does he call you "Petal"?

[@mrcoolluke7850]

I hope it was memorable

[@leslieebony]

Why wouldn’t you do it again?

[@kdbee6086]

@@dannyfitzpatrick9783 Hubs is now ex hubs

[@kdbee6086]

@@leslieebony I would definitely hang out with Mama and her friends. I loved them. I don't think I would do the part driving around the third world areas where a lot of guys walked the streets with AKs on there backs and you saw dead farm animals at the side of the road

[@williamf4544]

You are providing such a valuable service to people like me who love the idea of travelling/cruising the world but in reality never will

[@SNOWDONTRYFAN]

Cruised twice 14xdays with the old Ocean village boats , port of embarkation Barbados , all brit cruise which left the other boats at that time in shade when it came to all ports of call , being 10 islands !

[@francesm5976]

I liked that walk-and-talk. Yes, this format is a nice change to add to your 'menu'.

[@ethicalroyaloil]

I haven’t had a vacation in two years and am now prepared to fall for these traps

[@jessicaroth7439]

My husband and I did a cruise to Nassau many years ago. We left from Baltimore. Our departure was delayed because the wind was so bad they couldn't safely leave port. We left in the middle of the first night and they canceled the one port I really wanted to go to. Also, we figured in February no one would be leaving from Baltimore. We were wrong. Our ship was full and had so many kids. We stayed on board the ship at our first port because there was nothing within walking distance. We were able to lounge by the pool all day and had no lines for lunch. When we did get off the ship in Nassau, we walked the coastline until we found a beach no one was at. We ate at a local restaurant and shopped in the market place.

[@Bobrogers99]

I think most cruisers enjoy being on a floating resort, and because of the large numbers of tourists at the ports of call, the shore excursions are an extension of that. But if you are cruising to actually experience foreign lands, a smaller ship is required. A small group touring can visit places that aren't set up for hordes of people, and an excursion can be arranged to meet the wishes of a particular group of passengers.

[@kevinmchale5660]

Monster ships and smaller cruise ships all use the same docks as far as I know.

[@Bobrogers99]

@@kevinmchale5660 There are ports that can't accommodate the larger ships.

[@vietrounder]

For me, cruising is about the experience of the journey. If I was just interested in the destination I would fly there. Choosing between a large and small ship comes down to the experience you want to have.

[@williamlabarre4755]

Our favorite starting port there is San Juan. Saves 2 or 3 days of transiting, so can go further south and hit more ports.

[@johnnyhollis9977]

I was fortunate to have cruised many times around the Caribbean ending about 15 years ago. Ships were a bit smaller then and thus not too many people! Now with the huge leviathan resort party ships so many people are descending on ports all at once. Commercialism has gone thermal and ruined the whole experience for me.

[@dabsafe]

The quality of food and service on all of the major lines has gone way downhill. I quit cruising 7 years ago and switched to high end, all inclusive resorts. Much better value for money, great food and service on the whole.

[@johnnyhollis9977]

@@dabsafe Yes, including gratuities, has generally meant that staff may not be working for their tips as they once did. Even then some of the gratuities are clawed back by the Cruise Companies. There are many things that have either been withdrawn from the basic fare or loads of added amounts that were once free. An officer told me that the name of the game now is to get people on board and then hit their wallets from start to finish! 😉👍

[@jenx5870]

I don't go on cruises, but when I go to other countries, I book at either B&Bs or smaller hotels. It supports the locals, and there's less of a chance of running into a bunch of children. Plus, then you get a lot more attention, and the full experience of the culture. I don't drink alcohol because of my meds, so drinks included would be useless to me. A 50 yr old Irish American woman who can't drink, yay. I always rent a car and drive. The only place I parked and took a bus to was Dublin, and then just for the experience, took the DART to Dún Laoghaire. I never drive in Dublin or London. In Dublin, I always used to either walk, or hop on and off the Luas. Get a leap card, and you're good to go for transport in the City, and in surrounding areas - within limits. The rest is an easy drive. Avoid buying anything in the Temple Bar area, as that is all a tourist trap. Real Ireland is off of O'Connell Street. Just some tips if anyone plans to visit Dublin. The rest of Ireland is absolutely beautiful, too. Cork has a big indoor farmer's market in city centre. I am partial to a particular County, but won't say which, because A. I don't want to upset the ones I didn't name, and B. I don't want a bunch of visitors ruining it. My last remaining family there died off in 2012, so I haven't been back for a while. If you do the Ring of Kerry tour, there is a gentleman who is a shepherd who does a show with his dog. The show is absolutely worth your time to go and see. Do they have cruises to Ireland? I know there's an activity where people can swim with a dolphin, but I am afraid of the ocean, so I have never done it. Also, there are the Aran Islands.

[@pensacola321]

We have sailed the Caribbean a number of times. We love the big ships, which are floating resorts. The weather is beautiful, and there is so much to do on the boat. In most cases there is little reason to get off the ship.

[@larry4111]

I agree. My very first cruise was a Caribbean on NCL Epic, one of their biggest ships. I was overwhelmed. So my next was on the much smaller Pearl. I was bored to death! There was so little to do. Now I only cruise the biggest. I'll be doing a Transatlantic on Wonder in April.

[@EntertainmentGarden娱乐文]

@@larry4111 exactly, the small one may have better service, but unless you are too old to move around, then that is not my choice

[@pipernyle871]

Succinct, practical advice is your hallmark. Much appreciated. I like this format.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad to hear it! I was not sure if this format would work and be enjoyed so your feedback is very helpful! Thanks

[@dannyj9577]

Embarking/disembarking from Port Miami on RC Symphony Suite Class was amazing. No stress, no lines, checked in while relaxing on the couches, escorted off the ship and cruised through customs. It was totally different than every other cruise we’ve been on and we will never go back to standard cabins.

[@maryk5166]

Halfmoon Cay is absolutely one of my most favorite places we have traveled to. Love it.

[@spider82666]

In defense of the cruise lines, they have put a lot of thought into getting so many people on and off the ship. Royal Caribbean can usually board passengers in 15 minutes in port Miami. I will say that a Global Entry pass which includes TSA Precheck can save you an hour or two when you reenter the US.

[@PaulCashman]

At ports and with lines that use facial recognition for embark and debark (like Carnival out of PortMiami last week for me), the Customs process was a breeze. Remove mask, look at camera, it pings approval and you move on. Easy-peasy.

[@davidoneill9244]

With smaller ships - such as those of Fred Olsen - you negate the time spent with Customs etc as there are much fewer passengers.

[@Neighborly_Content]

One of my favorite excursions was to get off on St. Thomas and take a boat to St. John’s for the day. Amazing beaches.

[@Stanf954]

We just finished a 10 day Caribbean out of NYC with 2 days of travel to the 1st port. NCL kept us occupied during the transit in both directions. San Juan is a good starting alternative to going to Florida.

[@eyestoenvy]

NYC, Manhattan's cruise port user here .... leave the house with my suitcase, subway ride, short walk to ship an I'm on my way down and back. Love it.

[@alanharrison694]

I have been on several cruises, but my favorites were always river cruises, where you get to see life on both sides of the river. I have been on the Nile, between Aswan and Luxor, and the ship carried a little more than 100 people. My other one was from England to St. Petersburg, Russia along the Baltic, also on a smaller capacity ship. Everything was first class.

[@micheleroyalty4092]

I have been to the Caribbean many times and am a scuba diver. My preference is to go to one or two islands, forget the cruise, and get a deeper experience. I love to cruise, but prefer places on smaller ships, with interesting excursions. I don’t go on a cruise to shop. I want to go on a ship that has speakers, great food, and relaxing things to do. I like Italy, England to Scotland, Ireland, Wales. I like to hang out in London for awhile, pre cruise. Or Rome pre cruise.

[@jennifermcrae3705]

I just took a cruise to Coco Cay. I wasn’t going to get off the ship but my mom talked me into it and boy did we have a good time. Quite the surprise. We met staff that lives there on the island and also staff that brought by boat over every day to work. It was very interesting and a fun time. I especially loved loved looking at all curated vegetarian and flowers.

[@mikkiduf]

Tampa is a nice port and smaller than the other Florida ports!

[@bradclifford295]

It’s also quite affordable. The cheapest cruise I’ve ever been on was out of Tampa on NCL and it was amazing.

[@EntertainmentGarden娱乐文]

just came out of Royal Caribbean Cruise. It was great and those mega ships are way better than others. Yes, there are more people, but also more fun. you can always find some quiet place at right time. you can't beat the value and fun of cruise. In my opinion, it is ultimate true vacation

[@susan7775]

We did a West Indies cruise Dec 2019 on Viking. Husband wanted that itinerary because he’s a recreational scuba diver, had five dives lined up well in advance. Some of the excursions I went alone or with my brother-in-law. We all had a great time. Husband was amused by Christmas decorations and warm weather, we live near Seattle. I’m originally from San Diego Happy sailing, all

[@ashleysmith6884]

We flew out to Houston at Christmas, spent a couple of days in Dallas (meeting JR @ Southfork), then headed down to Galveston and picked up Carnival to Mexico & Honduras. Disney also sailed out of Galveston. Due to bad weather the ship was 7 hours late in departing, but we were able to enjoy the day walking the local area & had an amazing ice cream. Other cruises took local excursions. And on our return - it had to be a day at NASA. Houston - we have a problem…. But failure is not an option. Thanks for your brilliant and informative videos.

[@ImportDomestic2006]

You are forgetting Galveston Texas. Which is one of the easiest. In New Orleans there's a port as well that sales down the Mississippi river.

[@druegillis1744]

The Eastern Caribbean is one big tourist trap. We occasionally go but usually stay on the ship. Prefer the medium size ships of HAL or Princess. Western Caribbean is a little better. Definitely go when school is IN session and NOT during spring break. Mega ships are not for us. Great video, Gary. Keep up the great work.

[@larry4111]

Boy, you said it. My very first cruise was not only Eastern Caribbean but it was on NCL Epic, one of their biggest ships, and it was New Year's so the kids were out of school. The normal capacity is 4200 but there were over 6000 people on the ship because so many cabins had 3-4 people in them including the kids. It was madness. The excursions were a complete waste because it was so crowded that the lines were either too long or there was just no time to do anything (climb the trails, dip in the waterfall, etc.). On top of that the weather was awful and the beaches were packed. I wrote them a letter after the cruise and got a small FCC.

[@druegillis1744]

Larry- Odd you mentioned the Epic. That was the ship that turned us off to mega ships. Grotesquely designed cabins with curved cabinets, music venues you had to make reservations to see, smoking area you had go through to get to the pub and who needs a bowling alley on a cruise ship? Our first and last time on the Epic. What a waste.

[@larry4111]

@@druegillis1744 I have mixed feelings about it. I didn't have the issues you mentioned. I booked it specifically because it had the most solo cabins of any ship and for my first cruise I didn't want to pay double so that was my my entree into the life. It was small but it was affordable which is what I wanted at the time. I didn't need to make reservations for anything and I don't drink or smoke. The bowling alley was so small I didn't even know it was there until the last day. I wouldn't count that as a strike against it (hehe). So I didn't experience any of the problems you mentioned but I did have a number of issues and decided, at the time, that I'd never do it again. But after trying a smaller ship I realized that the bigger ship really did offer more. The problem was I just picked the wrong week when kids were out of school and there were just too many people on it.

[@timhanser1943]

Thanks , liked and subbed . Always wanted to go around the world on a cruise as a solo traveler. I’ll get there one day , 60 now though . Thanks.

[@markopolo4952]

Great video. Thanks for the tips. In my experience, the larger cruise ships (Royal Caribbean Oasis and Quantum class; Norwegian) are such a value, if you're looking for on-ship entertainment and activities. So I always choose itineraries that are equal amounts port days and sea days. Too many port days and you don't get to enjoy the ship to the fullest. Which, in my opinion, is the reason for the cruise. If I wanted to go to a destination, I would simply do a resort stay at that destination. Instead, I do a cruise because my vacation is mainly because of the cruise. Perhaps there will be a day when I prioritize smaller ships with less things to do onboard, but that day is not today.

[@danasandoval624]

You are completely right. On the ship it is clean and safe with loads to do, we love RC the Oasis class. We are in our early 60’s but I love zip lines and escape rooms and laser tag, etc. i also like to relax with a drink for sometime at a pool.

[@MotherMeece]

Completely agree. I've been to the Caribbean 9 times now, many of the same ports. I love the large ships, to me that is the vacation! Going to Europe, Hawaii and Alaska are completely different - there you want to be off the ship as much as possible!

[@gusgrizzel8397]

@@danasandoval624 Isn't being out in the ocean enough to do? Why be inside when you're out there? You stay inside all day at work...

[@clarencewilliams9432]

I think you are so correct about the ship experience. The entertainment at night, the food, the experience of meeting other people, relaxation on your balcony hearing the water, entertainment during the dayis truly worth the money.

[@clarencewilliams9432]

Great video. I do not go on a cruise to spend more money. I truly understand that taking a cruise is a business decision. The cruise lines are in the business of making more money that is not associated with the cruise price. I still think a cruise is well worth it. Thanks for your video. Keep up the good work

[@kenmohler4081]

My first cruise in the Caribbean was aboard the 17,000 ton M/S Southward. A much different experience than cruising today. About 600 passengers. The cruise staff knew our names. We had to tender ashore, and that was just part of the fun. At sea, you knew you were aboard a ship. I was rocked to sleep each night by the gentle rolling of the ship. Many cruises later, that was still the best one.

[@livebassngames]

the staff knows my name on the bigger cruises too ! WHen I get to the casino they unroll this big red carpet for me.... ohhh wait the carpet is already red

[@tixximmi]

Mine was too. Sun Viking 1975. Only 500 passengers. Service was the best. Today it's getting pretentious. Pay $48 for Steakhouse on Carnival and you don't get a Prime cut or even a Choice Cut. You get the same as a Walmart.

[@42warren42]

First time i've heard the term 'resort ship'. How appropriate! That is EXACTLY what the big, huge cruise ships have now become. A resort on the sea! You don't even have to get off the ship to have an enormous choice of attractions and entertainments. A new definition for me.

[@jonbeargenx]

We flew to The Dominican Republic and had a minibus to the cruise ship. However the drive was very long and although exciting also a bit scary as well. We did Costa Magika and it was great :) Loved the Caribbean, stunning with a chill pace and a lot of beautiful people.

[@patthewoodboy]

me and my both agree , a cruise has to be the worst way to spend a holiday , stuck on a boat , limited choice and unable to get away from loads of people.

[@mrbutch308]

I worked on a luxury ship for four years and in addition to that I've travelled many places (almost 90 countries on six continents) around the world. I just want to mention that once you've been to the islands of the South Pacific and the South Indian oceans, the Caribbean is decidedly SECOND-RATE. Not the hotels or the posh resorts, but the actual beaches, towns, and cultural amenities. Another thing: the popular Caribbean ports are very over-priced, crowded, and touristy. Know before you go.

[@maryalicekosing3419]

Agree completely except for Bonaire.

[@mrbutch308]

@A Z You are right and I wish to offer an apology for making a comment that is both condescending and arrogant. Actually the comment was rude. I made it in a hasty moment and did not give it much thought. Who am I to diminish the beauty of a Caribbean port to a person (say, from the Midwest) who is thrilled by the turquoise waters of the tropics and palm trees and friendly people? You see, I grew up near Miami and visited the West Indies many times over the years and have seen formally charming places become crowded, over-priced, and touristy. Just my opinion, that's all. So please indulge me and let me amend my comment by saying if you are charmed by the tropical ports of the Caribbean then please know that there are other places in the world you will also love.

[@tiffanysantana7333]

@@maryalicekosing3419 is Bonaire beautiful?

[@Think-dont-believe]

@@mrbutch308 wow a earnest respectful response .. you must be new around here :) . .. both of you ….really acknowledging and considering and responding … 😍🙏 very attractive vs 🤥🤬🙉🙈🙊

[@happycook6737]

I have also lived and traveled all over the world. Your assessment of the Caribbean is absolutely correct. On these ships you will be crowded and herded like sheep. It won't be an authentic cultural experience unless you go on the Italian, British, or German ship. 🤣

[@jewel1953]

My son worked for Royal Caribbean and was based out of Bayonne, NJ but only went to the Caribbean from Cozumel to Aruba.

[@TerryEbertMendozza]

Oceania Marina and Oceania Riviera are the only ships I will travel on now. I did World cruises on Regent Voyager, and I did love them, but when Oceania brought out these two remarkably beautiful ships, with only 1200 passengers, I knew I could never get on a large ship with 5000 people plus crew. Just getting on and off would be so claustrophobic.

[@tazman572]

That's great but not everyone can afford Oceania or Regent. We're not all millionaires.

[@TerryEbertMendozza]

@@tazman572 on average, in addition to your cruise fare, how much do you spend on extras, like excursions, specialty restaurants, wine and drinks? I think you will find that when everything is included in the cruise fare, the cost isn’t that much more than cruising a non-luxury line. My post was 10 months ago, so I will take that as an insult to me, which is petty and unnecessary. I worked very hard for 55 years running a large company. I know how lucky I am to be able to afford luxury travel. No man ever gave me anything. My engagement ring; yes. But I worked sometimes 12 hours a day to be able to enjoy my retirement. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

[@richardstein5131]

Some great advice here. Never understood why anyone would want to share their vacation with thousands of other tourists. Do your research, especially great advice at the end of video.

[@mssdn8976]

We were in St Thomas and saw cruise ships dropping off thousands of people into the shopping area in the port. We avoided going into the main town or the main beaches when the cruise ships came in, it was so crowded

[@maxchodos7256]

Don't forget San Juan, Puerto Rico. Had a great time departing from there.

[@rubberroast1598]

I find the biggest trap with cruising the regular lines is how expensive the drinks are on board. Its like the actual cruise is quite cheap, but its just to get you on board. Once on board, those drinks add up to more than the price of the cruise in many cases. Luckily i dont drink lol, and i actually prefer water to soda, beer, wine etc. But i did splurge and get myself and travel partner two pina coladas on board last week, and the bill came to $35, which includes automatic tip and tax. Even just having 2-3 drinks per day per person can greatly add to the total cost.

[@wendellgamstead4933]

Or smuggle some liquor on board..

[@LilyGazou]

Not hard to smuggle liquor. You were allowed to bring wine on Hollander America. You could drink that in your room or pay a cork fee with your dinner in the restaurants.

[@eveyluvvs]

That's mainly where the money comes from. They're not making much on us just getting on the ships. Def get packages or the specials if you drink or budget extra for it. When on a cruise, the feeling to get a drink def hits! haha

[@nicholasmohr1619]

I’m from Orlando and it’s no problem to go over to Tampa for cheaper. The most is of course driving to Cape Canaveral. Still nice to go on a cruise every so often.

[@markeschen]

One of the ships I'm looking forward to is Norwegian's Viva. It will be sailing out of San Juan, so you can avoid Florida and the itinerary they have planned has port visits every day.

[@lizt9485]

Gary, Hurricane season runs from June 1st through December 1st. With the peak season being September and October. It is entirely possible to have hurricanes outside of these dates. Mother Nature doesn’t care about your calendar. The weather forecasters are so good we know about the possibility of a hurricane nearly two weeks before. I can absolutely assure you that the cruise companies are even more informed. So please don’t be afraid have an alternate plan.

[@cqix]

If you are from Europe, remember that there are also cruises starting right within the Caribbean, with direct flights from Europe. We once did that and it was really nice. We had just a very quick passport check, walking by the officers only, since we came from the EU and just entered a none Schengen area of the EU. Nothing in comparison to entering the states. Then you start right in the middle, meaning the cruise had no rush to get from Florida to the Caribbean, meaning we stayed in ports until 8pm, 10pm or even midnight. This allowed us for example to fly/cruise to St Barths from St Maarten, enjoy almost every sunset at the beach and basically just went back on port to go to the next island. Btw, yes the people of the Caribbean are very well aware of Cruises. They where like, "Are you sure, when to you fly back?" and found it interesting, that our ship left way after sunset, so we where in no rush at all. On Tobago we came into the carnival on the way back to the ship and our privately organized driver took great care, leaving early enough and dealing with the police to get us a way through the carnival, so that we came on time.

[@danblackmore6099]

Understand first hand most of these. Usually cruise end of January start if February because of cost and generally less kids. We usually find our own excursions in port because they tend to be less expensive and we can taylor them to do exactly what we want.

[@katarh]

The best shore excursion I did in Cozumel was the "Discover Mexico" museum. There was an art museum portion inside that was air conditioned, but outside there were wonderful dioramas of famous architecture, ranging from Mayan ruins to modern buildings in Mexico City. I had a fantastic chocolate nib and tequila frozen drink searched in an art vase that I got to keep as a souvenir. It was a much more fun shore excursion than snorkeling again would have been!

[@achiengdeji]

But its closed now

[@mysticwanderer4787]

You can also take a Caribbean cruise from Tampa, FL. It is much easier to get in and out of and the hotels are more reasonable than Ft. Lauderdale or Miami. Most of the more popular cruise lines have ships ported there.

[@van84agon]

Loved your format for this video, each segment filmed in a different location, your planning paid off as it was fun to watch. Great content! manage expectations by knowing what you are getting into, there is a product for everyone. do your research, pick your best fit, and enjoy yourself. thanks for your hard work Gary!

[@simonshiels1]

If that's your definition of hard work....gimme me some😂😂😂😂

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Love the new style of talking with the relevant background, Good points to think about when booking a Caribbean cruise.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching. It was an experiment to try new formats and nearly didn’t release as things I thought didn’t work. But feedback and how it’s doing suggests it working more than thought it would! Lots learnt on how want to improve format but encouraging!!!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

@@tipsfortravellers We thought it worked well! 😁

[@michaelpruitt7610]

We have been to the Caribbean many times. On our last one, we were on the Silversea Silver Spirit. We never got off the ship and it was one of our favorite cruises. Thanks for all your great videos, Gary!!

[@marilynaustin7488]

I have just subscribed to your channel. Ive only been on one cruise- over 10 years ago & didn’t enjoy- No fault of cruising per say- more to do with who I was with! Really enjoying your insights!’

[@chictown]

Excellent overview, Gary. We cruise the Caribbean quite often and your tips are spot on!

[@Jeffdoeswhat]

Yea the weather can definitely mess with itinerary. 8 day cruise only got 2 of the 4 stops due to weather. Last week.

[@captdavec590]

Some of us don't have the "big bucks" (like you apparently do) to cruise on smaller ships.

[@SyriusStarMultimedia]

Even though I was on my first cruise I really benefited from watching your videos. There is a lot of repetition with these ports and excursions and many products that were not unique to the island. My excursion felt like I was lining up to go to work.

[@joecamerer2865]

Craziest thing I saw on my first cruise was the art auction. I left thinking it had to be fake. There were tons of people supposedly paying thousands to buy art work at auction. I was like, there is no way this many people on a cheap Carnival cruise are spending that kind of money. It has to planted buyers hoping even one real buyer will come along.

[@AronRoss72]

Ha ha! Wow! Especially on a Carnival cruise!

[@martinko4086]

Joe Camarer , .... people use credit cards to buy and then they file for bankruptcy.

[@edwaggoner7403]

@@AronRoss72 Is carnival known as the dead in the water ships?

[@lindawilson9656]

We have met people who said their home is filled with ‘beautiful artwork’ they bought on ships. A lot of paintings are prints that the artist adds two or three strokes to,and then sell as ‘original’

[@queencafe777]

Fake buyers!

[@SlackerHead83]

Southern Caribbean is my all time favorite. Panama canal and Costa Rica was incredibly beautiful. Dominica, Aruba, Barbados, and St Thomas are also wonderful Islands. If you go to St Thomas be sure to go to the mountaintop tiki bar and get their world famous banana daiquiri while enjoying the view of Megan's Bay.

[@edwaggoner7403]

I have loads of cruising experience, although it was several decades ago. I was paid for the time on the cruise. Departed from Hawaii and cruised all over the far east, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Philippine Islands. Even hit Midway Island and a small Island In the South Pacific whos name I forget. The locals met us and paddled in dugout canoes riding our bow wave into the small harbor. Stopped in Townsville Austrailia and Auckland, New Zealand. During the second cruise we visited the coast of North Korea, did not have a port visit there. On return to Hawaii we stopped in Pago Pago for a short while. The ship was small compared to todays cruises, only 430 feet long which allowed us to visit some ports the large ships do not visit. Did this twice, 1st 1969 for a six month cruise and again in 1971 a six and a half month cruise. BTW We visited Vietnam often during both cruises.

[@stevenhollingsworth3249]

It sounds like you were in the Navy.

[@edwaggoner7403]

@@stevenhollingsworth3249 Six years three months, ET 1.

[@MrToryhere]

The best way to see the Caribbean is to travel on one of SeaDream Yacht Clubs two small ships. With only 120 passengers and almost as many crew, it is like an exclusive floating club, where the service is superb and the food is fabulous. As the advertising says, it’s yachting, not cruising.

[@williamd9205]

Thanks for the info Gary. We’re doing our first Caribbean cruise later this year. So happy to have this information.

[@kaseydaugherty409]

Did you complete your cruise yet? We're doing Western Caribbean Thanksgiving week. Stuck traveling during school breaks...hubby is a teacher.

[@adaml2932]

5:22 Roatan is great. Went there once on a cruise & I'm planning to return by plane to visit longer

[@witz224]

Seems like all the shops in the Caribbean are about the same. Anymore I just cruise for the ship experience because the ports are to commercialized !

[@cmichaelhoover8432]

We cruised the southern Caribbean sailing from San Juan. Flew in from Tampa the day before the cruise and had a great time in old San Juan, stayed in a Marriott, but would definitely go for an AirbnB next time (more local flavor, not a dig at Marriott). Easy Uber from the hotel to the ship, and from the ship to the airport for the return. Fantastic cruise on Royal Caribbean.

[@davidfence6939]

I stick with the large ships because we bring my niece. She's going on 8 and has to be entertained at all times. That's a huge plus of say a Royal Caribbean ship. I'd also be wary of any ports in the US not in south Florida, New Orleans, Galveston, or New York. The ships will always be older at the other ports. I'm an hour and a half from Charleston, South Carolina. Carnival's Sunshine has made Charleston its home port. That ship only really goes to a handful of ports and its mainly the private island and the Bahamas. And the ones from farther up the coast tend to end up losing an island day due to travel. Researching is important. I'd rather drive the 6+ hours from my house to have better destination choices and a newer ship than go on one that was probably close to the scrap yard a year ago and is less than 2 hours from my house.

[@pollynicklas5220]

When I went on my first and only cruise I booked independent excursions all 3 ports and had no problems at all!

[@Rosary716]

Best experiences I ever had was Windjammer Barefoot Cruises. Able to dock at smaller islands like Jost van Dyke and Norman Island. Wish they still operated.

[@DS-vp7gr]

I have done 2 Windjammer Barefoot cruises and loved them so much. The Poly and the Legacy. It was such a unique experience. I wish they were still in business.

[@KevinMontreal]

I have cruised the Caribbean often and I wish you were around when I started my cruising journey.

[@KateandBree]

We ended up in a few traps on our Regent cruise; mostly, we embarked and disembarked from Miami (the horror of that traffic; it rivals Chicago) and we went to Norwegian Cruise Line’s other private island in the Bahamas which bored me to tears. I had researched prices for tanzanite before I left because I have wanted a pair of earrings for some time and I managed to find a great pair for 20% what I’d pay in the States. I hit a sale. Ha ha haaaaaa.

[@callieduval3000]

You also don't have to take the 1st offer you get when looking for transportation once you get to an island like Nassau they all have different prices and you can negotiate for a lower price and make sure the van has AC and comfortable.

[@tuvia4082]

I hope you didn't mean you are in Cozumel today today, Feb 26. I was walking around down by the port and saw a Disney ship (not sure which one) and the Viking Orion I believe, and there were two a bit further south (but I didn't walk down there, had to get the ferry). One day Gary we may meet. As far as the passengers coming into Cozumel, I generally stay away from the area but they are usually carted off to do some snorkeling or deposited in centro for shopping. The price of everything closer to the port is way more expensive than if you walk about 4 streets inland. For example : a cup of coffee close to the port 50-100 pesos. A few streets inland, 25-35 pesos. Same with food. Love your channel, keep up the good work!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Hi! No the day I recorded. Pity as i would love to be there today!! Hope you had a good day - and those good tips !!!

[@jeronwhite3113]

Down here in Mobile,Alabama we are a port city we have the Alabama cruise terminal here, mostly carnival ships

[@Cjaz84]

I found the private island thing like having a free resort day. Harvest Kay was nice because you could easily pop back on the ship for lunch and drinks. The Monkey River Eco tour was fabulous at harvest Kay. 100% would recommend. We did more cultural stuff at the other stops on that itinerary. Costa Maya was an awful tourist trap and I am glad we did the pyramids. Cozumel was cool because it was just like the border towns where I grew up and the snorkeling was awesome. Gambuilina animal sanctuary in rotan was awful and a bad tourist trap.

[@larry4111]

My first cruise to Costa Maya I decided to do the pyramids while everyone else went to the pools and free beach. It was fantastic. The next time I switched it and decided to do the beach instead. I don't regret it but I think once is enough. I had an awful experience in Roatan 3 months ago but Cozumel made up for it.

[@joeglennaz]

Hello Arizona. It’s been many many years since I’ve been on a cruise but I’ve been on the eastern Caribbean in the western Caribbean one of those went to Barbados well on a seven day. I’ve also done the Mexican Riviera I much prefer the waters in the Caribbean much warmer than the California side. I don’t like cold water. Thanks for all the tips. Great video.

[@karenstasik2979]

I find it interesting how much people love the Caribbean. I went on 2 cruises and will never go again. I found the locals to be rude or overbearing and I did not feel safe there. And I stayed at the Atlantis for a week once which is a highly rated hotel and was absolutely beautiful. Again I found the staff to be rude and at times inappropriate with my two young daughters. Now I go to Hawaii where the service is far superior. Yes I pay more but it's worth it. Just me I guess

[@alistairmcelwee7467]

I can say as a local, when cruise ships stop, signs go up that morning saying 50% off, but the prices have doubled since the day before.

[@taylordavis6620]

Gary - Unrelated: could you alert us ASAP when Hawaii opens up again for accepting cruise ships? Thank you.

[@MaryAnn-is8ku]

Princess Has ships sailing to Hawaii now.

[@Jimbodisfan]

Good morning! New Jerseyan (Jerseyite?) here. My wife and I have sailed out of Baltimore's Maryland Cruise Terminal, which is a couple hours by car south of us; and once from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, NJ, a couple hours north. Instead of flying to Florida (which we have done), we took a Greyhound bus the day before to Baltimore, stayed in a hotel to which we took a cab, and then took a cab to the cruise terminal the next morning. In the Caribbean, we often skipped the shore excursions, got off the ship and explored the town. I believe the Carnival Pride and Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas sail from Baltimore.

[@Moose1207]

Thank you so much for the tip for the shore excursions! We have found that booking through the ship is a big rip off. Having that guarantee to be back aboard on time is what would sell this for me as well. Once we went to Jamaica and on the ship they listed the mountain coaster for somewhere around $100 for my wife and I to ride ONCE. We decided to just walk around instead. Well we happened to pass by that same coaster, and the people there said we could pay cash, and we both rode the coaster for $10 each. - we left a $10 tip because we were so happy - and that is still cheaper than just 1 ticket from the ship. I understand markups but $80 markup for something like this is close to theft in my opinion.

[@karenjensen2345]

We do totally different excursions every day and time and never doing boring beach days. We have done a salsa and mixology class. We joined the amazing race and had to go all over, which was eye opening, we have toured factories, had monkeys on our shoulders and of course did all different kids of snorkeling trips some with caves kayaking etc.

[@stevenomara]

Another vote of support for this new format! Great video ☺️

[@TheCheddarist]

The similarities between the slab-sided mega ships and vessels designed for carrying livestock are startling.

[@anacristinasampaioalves4312]

Excellent video and tips. I only did one cruise in my life, here in Brazil. My kids were little and they had a great time. As for me, I wish I could have had more historical experience along the way. That’s why I ask you if you have any video about European cruise itineraries.

[@astrumnihilum]

i feel like the best port to go out of is new orleans since you go down the river. i really enjoyed the river departure part