Merci d'avance.
Croisière dans les Caraïbes à bord du Freedom of the Seas
by Obiwan347
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour, d'ici trois semaines, je pars en famille faire une petite balade dans les Caraïbes. 8 Jours sur un gros bateau avec des escales en Haïti, Jamaïque, Grand Cayman et Mexique (Cozumel).
Alors, si vous avez un conseil, une suggestion, un avertissement, une précision, un avis sur le bateau, les escales, les excursions, le prix des cocktails, n'hésitez surtout pas.
Au fait, nous passons trois jours à Orlando avant d'embarquer. Au programme, parcs et NASA. La encore, tout tuyau, truc, combine, astuce sera accueilli favorablement.
Merci d'avance.
Merci d'avance.
Visions d'Italie -Costa Fortuna- Avril 2010
Caraïbes Ouest - Freedom of the Seas - Novembre 2011
Méditerranée occidentale MSC Poesia Octobre 2014
Bonjour je ne connais pas la compagnie '' of the sea'' puisque nous ferons notre 2e croisières avec la compagnie Carnival.
Par contre j'ai déja séjourné en Jamaique et si vous hésitez entre plusieurs activités je pourrai peut-être vous aider.
Par contre j'ai déja séjourné en Jamaique et si vous hésitez entre plusieurs activités je pourrai peut-être vous aider.
Varadero en mai 1991, Ochos Rio en nov 1996, Guardalavaca en déc 2000, Santa Lucia en janv 2005, Santa Maria en janv 2007, Varadero en déc 2007, Varadero en déc 2008, Santa Maria en févr 2009, Varadero en nov 2009, Croisière en fév 2010, Puerto Plata en avril 2011, Croisière en Janv 2012.
poif
poif
Bonjour je ne connais pas la compagnie '' of the sea'' puisque nous ferons notre 2e croisières avec la compagnie Carnival.
Par contre j'ai déja séjourné en Jamaique et si vous hésitez entre plusieurs activités je pourrai peut-être vous aider.
Bonsoir "poif"
de ocho rios pour rivers dunn falls, j'y vais comment ? taxi? et à combien? merci d'avance titi
Par contre j'ai déja séjourné en Jamaique et si vous hésitez entre plusieurs activités je pourrai peut-être vous aider.
Bonsoir "poif"
de ocho rios pour rivers dunn falls, j'y vais comment ? taxi? et à combien? merci d'avance titi
Nous y sommes allé en bateau par la mer, en catamaran.
Vous pouvez voir les excursions sur les sites suivants :
http://jamaicacruiseexcursions.com/Royal_Caribbean_Freedom.htm
Vous pouvez réserver vous mêmes par net et avoir quelqu'un qui vous attendra sur place a votre arrivé, mais les prix semble les mêmes donc pourquoi ne pas y aller avec le bateau, si vous êtes aventurier et que vous voulez y aller par vous mêmes, mais faut pas oublié que le taxi s'est allé et retour, a moins de vous mettre avec un autre couple...
http://www.mobydicktours.com/Dunns-River-Falls.html?gclid=CPHah_XVzasCFSE95QodYCUO4w
Vous pouvez voir les excursions sur les sites suivants :
http://jamaicacruiseexcursions.com/Royal_Caribbean_Freedom.htm
Vous pouvez réserver vous mêmes par net et avoir quelqu'un qui vous attendra sur place a votre arrivé, mais les prix semble les mêmes donc pourquoi ne pas y aller avec le bateau, si vous êtes aventurier et que vous voulez y aller par vous mêmes, mais faut pas oublié que le taxi s'est allé et retour, a moins de vous mettre avec un autre couple...
http://www.mobydicktours.com/Dunns-River-Falls.html?gclid=CPHah_XVzasCFSE95QodYCUO4w
Varadero en mai 1991, Ochos Rio en nov 1996, Guardalavaca en déc 2000, Santa Lucia en janv 2005, Santa Maria en janv 2007, Varadero en déc 2007, Varadero en déc 2008, Santa Maria en févr 2009, Varadero en nov 2009, Croisière en fév 2010, Puerto Plata en avril 2011, Croisière en Janv 2012.
poif
poif
Bonjour Obiwan347, Très bon choix, je suis monté à bord du Freedom lors de son voyage inaugural du 4 au 11 juin 2006. Vous n'avez qu'a vous connecter à www.rccl.com et entrer vos donnés pour avoir accès à tout ce que RCI offre et les coûts forfaits vin, liqueur douce etc... et excursions offerts a quel prix. Haiti, vous ferez escale sur une partie de l'île nommé Labadee site appartenant à RCI. Il y a plusieurs sports nautiques sea-doo, pédalo etc... (en location), de la tyrolienne et beaucoup autres activités de plage. Des articles fabriqué par les Haïtiens sont à vendre. La nourriture est inclus sur ce site. Grand Cayman et Cozumel énomément de choses sont offertes toutefois vous avez la liberté de réserver soit du croisiériste ou sur place (si vous parlé bien l'anglais) des taxis, tours ou excursions à moindres coûts. Effectivement c'est un gros bateau 160,000 tons il y a du basketball, simulateur de golf, une patinoire, mini gof, mur d'escalade, 3 piscines, surf et beaucoup d'autres. Si vous êtes du genre à diner (pournous le souper) à différentes heures alors vous pouvez demander un My Time Dinning. Les pourboires qui son remit à la fin sont en argent américainsont au coût de 11.65$ par personne par jour. Vous aurez des prises d'alimentations européennes et américaines. À oui, le prix des cocktails ça tourne autour de 7$ à 9$ us en fonction du drink et si vous optez pour avoir un verre souvenir cependant il y a le drink du jour à moins cher.
Bonne croisière!
Bonne croisière!
RCI 63, Princess 3, Cunard 2, Carnival 4, HA 1, Celebrity 4, Disney 1, CDF 2, Costa 1, NCL 4.
si vous êtes aventurier et que vous voulez y aller par vous mêmes
C'est rééllement une aventure de faire 8km en taxi......on est 5, et aller retour, ben oui c'est ce que je compte faire. le cout d'un taxi si tu avais merci
merci pour tes liens
titi
C'est rééllement une aventure de faire 8km en taxi......on est 5, et aller retour, ben oui c'est ce que je compte faire. le cout d'un taxi si tu avais merci
merci pour tes liens
titi
Désolé car les 3 fois que je suis parti de Orlando j'avais des transferts inclus et ou location de voiture. Cependant les Américains ont des véhicules 7 passagers dans la plupart des aéroports et ports des États-Unis. Si ce n'est qu'a 8 KM le compteur tourne avec un tarif de base + le km + la minute en plus des frais supplémentaires pour les passagers additionnels. En comparant avec Fort Lauderdale 4 personnes sensiblement même KM le coût fût de 45$us donc j'estimerais ta course à 60$us ou 70$us pour un taxi.
Certain endroit il y a des FLAT RATES du port à l'aéroport et vice et versa informes-toi!
RCI 63, Princess 3, Cunard 2, Carnival 4, HA 1, Celebrity 4, Disney 1, CDF 2, Costa 1, NCL 4.
Désolé car les 3 fois que je suis parti de Orlando j'avais des transferts inclus et ou location de voiture. Cependant les Américains ont des véhicules 7 passagers dans la plupart des aéroports et ports des États-Unis. Si ce n'est qu'a 8 KM le compteur tourne avec un tarif de base + le km + la minute en plus des frais supplémentaires pour les passagers additionnels. En comparant avec Fort Lauderdale 4 personnes sensiblement même KM le coût fût de 45$us donc j'estimerais ta course à 60$us ou 70$us pour un taxi.
Certain endroit il y a des FLAT RATES du port à l'aéroport et vice et versa informes-toi!
Désolé mais je parlais à "poif", pourquoi me parlez vous de la Floride !!! 😕 je parle de taxi en Jamaique moi... merci @+
Désolé mais je parlais à "poif", pourquoi me parlez vous de la Floride !!! 😕 je parle de taxi en Jamaique moi... merci @+
Merci à ceux qui ont eu la gentillesse de me répondre.
Rendez vous à mon retour.
Rendez vous à mon retour.
Visions d'Italie -Costa Fortuna- Avril 2010
Caraïbes Ouest - Freedom of the Seas - Novembre 2011
Méditerranée occidentale MSC Poesia Octobre 2014
Hé bien voilà, de retour à la maison depuis une semaine déjà. Une croisière réussie sur un bateau magnifique et un voyage que s'est très bien déroulé dans son ensemble, si l'on tient compte du fait que nous étions 31 !!
Un periple en deux grosses étapes en fait : trois jours sur Orlando avant la croisière, puis une semaine sur le Freedom of the Seas, une ville bateau plus long que la Tour Eiffel n'est haute !!
Le retour a la réalité a été dur mais nous avons déjà trouvé la destination des prochaines vacances. A nous le Mexique en 2013 !!
Visions d'Italie -Costa Fortuna- Avril 2010
Caraïbes Ouest - Freedom of the Seas - Novembre 2011
Méditerranée occidentale MSC Poesia Octobre 2014
Bonjour,
je viens de voir que vous avez fait la croisière que l'on va faire en mars sur le FREEDOM, et me permet de vous poser quelques questions :
x nous avons une crainte : vue la grandeur du bateau, est-ce qu'on ne sent pas trop le monde? Je veux dire par là qu'on a peur d'être les uns sur les autres, de faire la queue pendant des heures au resto ou aux excursions, que la piscine comme les autres instalaltiosn soient bondées. Merci beaucoup pour votre réponse.
x pour GRAND CAYMAN : vous avez nagé avec les raies ? Je pense que ça doit être génial, mais si tout le bateau envisage l'excursion, je pense que le monde doit gâcher sacrément cette sortie fabuleuse
x de façon générale : faut-il faire l'excursion par le bateau ou par l'extérieur?
x à l'embarquement : faut-il attendre longtemps pour les bagages?
x pour le débarquement final : ça prend du temps ou ça va?
x et dernière question : quand on atterit aux US, la douane n'est pas trop contraignante, car je me souviens de la douane de LOS ANGELES lors d'un de mes séjours aux USA où c'était l'horreur
Je ne veux pas prendre de votre temps et comprendrait très bien que vous n'ayez le temps de me répondre. A charge de revanche : j'ai fait une splendide croisière sur le SPLENDOUR OF THE SEAS bateau à taille raisonnable comparée au FREEDOM, dans les iles grecques et CROATIE : si vous voulez des infos, n'hésitez pas!
Je ne veux pas prendre de votre temps et comprendrait très bien que vous n'ayez le temps de me répondre. A charge de revanche : j'ai fait une splendide croisière sur le SPLENDOUR OF THE SEAS bateau à taille raisonnable comparée au FREEDOM, dans les iles grecques et CROATIE : si vous voulez des infos, n'hésitez pas!
philippe
Bonjour
c'est avec plaisir que je vous réponds, cela me permet de me replonger dans ce formidable voyage et c'est un plaisr qui durera longtemps je crois.
Sachez tout d'abord que nous avons effectué cette croisière avec un groupe de 31 personnes, tous cousins ou amis, ce qui a donné un goût particulier à cette aventure. Mon ressenti ne sera pas forcèment le votre si vous partez en couple. Lorsqu'on voyage en amoureux on n'a pas les mêmes attentes.
Ceci dit, seul ou en groupe le Freedom of the Seas est un bateau monumental, avec sa rue principale au pont 4, (une galerie marchande comme en centre ville !!), sa vague de surf, son mur d'escalade, son mini golf et j'en passe. Nous avions les mêmes craintes que vous concernant la surpopulation mais nous avons eu l'agréable surprise de constater que les 3500 passagers se répartissaient harmonieusement sur le bateau, chacun ayant des rythmes ou des activités différentes. Nous n'avons donc jamais souffert de cet effet de foule que l'on pouvait craindre. Même le premier jour de navigation, où tout le monde est sur le bateau, s'est bien passé. Il ya tant de chose à faire et à voir. Pour les repas, nous avions réservé plusieurs tables au restaurant principal (restaurant à 3 étages tout de meme avec deux services ), donc pas de souci pour le repas du soir. en plus, il y a aussi la cafetéria du Pont 11 et une pizzéria au Pont 4 pour manger quasiment tout le temps, donc presque pas de file d'attente pour manger.
Côté piscine, à part le premier jour où il y avait affluence, nous avons toujours pu nous installer et nous baigner sans problème, nous avions meme réussi à "réquisitionner" un jaccuzi où nous buvions tous les soirs un cocktail en commentant l'escale passée et préparant celle du lendemain. Il faut dire qu'à 30, on en imposait :)
Pour les excursions, c'est la sortie du bateau qui pose problème mais j'ai fait une précédente croisière sur un bateau plus petit et c'était aussi le cas. Il faut attendre quelques minutes mais c'est gérable. Tout est bien organisé, il faut bien le reconnaître. Si vous voulez évité la queue au retour, accordez vous une demi heure de shopping supplémentaire à proximité du bateau et laissez les américains faire la queue :)
Donc pour conclure sur la bateau, n'ayez crainte, vous allez en prendre plein les yeux et vous ne verrez plus les autres passagers!!
Pour le reste, je vous rassure, les américains n'ont pas changé, ils sont toujours aussi paranos quand on arrive sur leur sol. Contrôle draconien et systématique, le tout sans décrocher un sourire. Cela s'est passé à Atlanta pour nous et nous avons failli rater notre correspondance. La encore, le fait d'être un groupe de 30 a joué en notre faveur, l'avion qui devait nous amener jusqu'à Orlando nous a attendu et nous avons décollé avec vingt minutes de retard. Ha oui, oubliez le français, là bas il ne sert à rien, c'est anglais obligatoire. Ce sera aussi le cas sur le bateau. Les passagers sont quasi tous américains, alors on ne s'embête pas avec des annonces multilingues. Vous aurez peut être le chance de rencontrer un serveur haïtien et une femme de ménage mauritienne et vous verrez le plaisir qu'ils ont de manier un peu la langue de Molière et le plaisir que c'est de les entendre :)
L'embarquement sur le bateau, c'est rebelote pour les formalités mais vous n'allez pas craquer si près de votre chambre. Une fois de plus, les américains ne sont pas de joyeux drilles mais ils assurent au niveau organisation donc l'un compense l'autre.
Pour ce qui est des excursions, nous en avons fait deux avec le bateau (Jamaique et Cozumel) et une par l'extèrieur (Caïman). Je vais peut être briser un vieux rève mais la nage avec les raies, c'est très touristique. Nous avions loué un bateau pour notre groupe qui nous a amené sur trois points différents, assez proches l'un de l'autre. sur l'un d'entre eux, une dizaine de bateaux environ, chargés de touristes enthousiates, cernaient un banc de sable grand comme deux ou trois terrains de foot ou naviguaient une vingtaine de raies grises, habituées des lieux car nourries de longue date par les autochtones. Dès qu'un bateau se met à l'ancre, elles déboulent sans prévenir et vous glissent entre les jambes et vous frôlent de leurs grandes ailes visqueuses, le tout dans un métre d'eau cristalline et turquoise à la fois, c'est quand même dépaysant !! Mais bon, ne vous attendez pas à vous retrouver tout seul face à la nature.
Si vous faites la meme croisière que nous, vous ferez également escale à Labadee, petit bout de paradis sur Haïti. Là, les animations sont à acheter sur place, Tyrolienne, parachute ascensionnel, jet ski, c'est selon vos goûts.
En Jamaïque, on s'est fait avoir. Le bateau ne s'est pas amarré à Ochos Rios donc on s'est payé deux heures de bus à l'aller et au retour pour visiter une plantation qui n'en valait pas la peine. Nous avons pu tout de même apprécier la conduite automobile jamaïcaine, très riche en adrénaline et ponctuée de "No Problem" par un chauffeur hilare, amusé de nous voir hurler de peur à chaque dépassement.
Tout le monde va au chutes de Dun's River falls, c'est joli mais très féquenté également
Et puis il y a Cozumel, ma préférée. Passée les cinquante minutes de ferry pour rejoindre le continent, nous sommes allés dans un parc nommé Xcaret, toujurs organisée par le bateau et nous avons passé une magnifique journée. Cette région est vraiment splendide, dommage que nous ayons été pressé par le temps
Pour en finr avec vos questions, lors du débarquement, si vous voulez éviter d'attendre trop longtemps sur le bateau, demandez à faire partie des premiers à descendre ou mieux, gardez vos valises avec vous au lieu de les confier au personnel de bord et descendez directement du bateau très tôt. Tout dépend si vous avez un vol retour rapidement ou si vous voulez faire une dernière grasse mat.
Voilà, j'espère avoir répondu à vos attentes, n'hésitez pas à me recontacter si vous avez besoin d'un renseignement supplémentaire
Cordialement
Visions d'Italie -Costa Fortuna- Avril 2010
Caraïbes Ouest - Freedom of the Seas - Novembre 2011
Méditerranée occidentale MSC Poesia Octobre 2014
Un grand merci pour votre réponse hyper détaillée! Je vois que le bateau est fabuleux, mais que le "monde" - qu'on ne voit pas trop et c'est une bonne chose- fait perdre un peu de sa superbe aux excursions et notamment à GRAND CAYMAN! C'est vrai qu'on s'imagine être les seuls à GRAND CAYMAN, mais visiblement c'est une excursion très courue.
Une dernière chose : sur le SPLENDOUR OF THE SEAS, on avait possibilité d'avoir une table pour 2, savez-vous si cela est le cas sur le FREEDOM?
Et pour info : nous atterissons à ORLANDO la veille et dormons au HYATT REGENCY de l'aéroport : c'est bien ou y-a-t-il des hôtels au bord de mer et prêts du portn car nous pouvons encore changer (apr exemple à COCOA BEACH)?
Merci encore à vous pour le temps et la qualité de votre réponse.
philippe
Un grand merci pour votre réponse hyper détaillée et précise!
Je vois que le bateau est fabuleux et que le monde ne se voit pas de trop. Néanmoins, le monde semble faire perdre un peu de sa superbe aux excursions et notamment GRAND CAYMAN! C'est vrai qu'on s'imagine être seul au monde, mais bon.
Et la douane confirme mes craintes et mon vécu à LOS ANGELES, mais c'est vrai qu'une fois passer cela, les américains sont super sympas!
Par contre, savez-vous si pour les repas, on peut avoir une table de 2 comme c'était le cas sur notre croisière du SPLENDOUR?
Nous atterrissons à ORLANDO la veille et logeons au HYATT de l'aéroport : est-ce une bonne idée ou c'est mieux d'aller au bord de mer et proche de PORT CANAVERAL, comme COCOA BEACH par exemple?
Merci à vous, et encore mille merci pour votre réponse qui a dû vous prendre du temps.
philippe
De mémoire, je ne me souviens pas avoir vu de table pour deux au restaurant mais je serai pas catégorique à ce sujet. Personnellement nous avions réservé nos tables en même temps que les chambres, peut être pourriez vous vous renseigner auprès de votre agence. Sinon, vous aurez toujours la possibilité de manger à la cafétaria mais bon, c'est bien agréable de se faire servir à table de temps en temps :)
J'imagine que beaucoup de gens voyageront en couple sur le bateau, vous serez alors regroupés avec d'autres personnes. Si la chance vous sourit, vous serez à table avec des francophones mais il faut bien reconnaître qu'il n'y en a pas beaucoup :)
Concernant l'hôtel, nous étions nous aussi à Orlando où nous avons passé 3 jours pour visiter quelques parcs. il y a une bonne heure de route jusqu'à Port Canaveral. Si vous n'avez rien à faire à Orlando, peut être vaut-il mieux trouver un hôtel tout près du terminal d'embarquement et profiter, peut être, d'un coucher de soleil ou d'une balade matinale sur Cocoa Beach...
Visions d'Italie -Costa Fortuna- Avril 2010
Caraïbes Ouest - Freedom of the Seas - Novembre 2011
Méditerranée occidentale MSC Poesia Octobre 2014
Finalement, je vais opter pour le CLUBMED GUADELOUPE plutôt que la croisière pourtant 800 euros moins chère que le CLUBMED. C'est le monde - QUI NOUS FAIT PEUR - qui nous décide à changer. J'ai jusqu'à mardi matin pour décider, jour de levée de l'option au CLUBMED. Je ferai la croisière caraibes en 2013 par la royal avec départ guadeloupe et sur un bateau que je connais (le BRILLANCE OF THE SEAS) à taille quand même plus humaine. Merci à vous encore pour toutes les infos.
philippe
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More discussions
Hi there,
Here’s the 2027 cruise schedule.
It’s a great way to get ideas and maybe even meet up with other members!
2 essential rules:
1) Never "quote" the schedule when replying—this avoids any confusion. 2) Follow this format: DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / /
REMINDER Despite my requests, few people follow the requested format. Cruises that stray too far from it won’t be listed anymore—sorry about that. IMPORTANT Please respect the templates! PLEASE COPY AND PASTE THE FORMAT BELOW AND REPLACE WITH YOUR DETAILS IF YOU’RE HAVING TROUBLE DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / / It takes time to fix mistakes, so THANKS TO EVERYONE for your help!
YOUR TURN 😉
NUMBER OF 2027 CRUISES: 1 JANUARY 14/01 - poupou10 / AZAMARA JOURNEY / 74 days / South America Tour / Miami FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
1) Never "quote" the schedule when replying—this avoids any confusion. 2) Follow this format: DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / /
REMINDER Despite my requests, few people follow the requested format. Cruises that stray too far from it won’t be listed anymore—sorry about that. IMPORTANT Please respect the templates! PLEASE COPY AND PASTE THE FORMAT BELOW AND REPLACE WITH YOUR DETAILS IF YOU’RE HAVING TROUBLE DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / / It takes time to fix mistakes, so THANKS TO EVERYONE for your help!
YOUR TURN 😉
NUMBER OF 2027 CRUISES: 1 JANUARY 14/01 - poupou10 / AZAMARA JOURNEY / 74 days / South America Tour / Miami FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Hello,
We’re back from this cruise.
Boarding in Dunkirk: The doors opened around 12 PM. Since we were a bit early, I asked if my husband, who uses a walker, could wait inside instead of outside. I left him with the two suitcases and our two backpacks in the small hall while I parked the car in the reserved CFC parking lot for 10 € per day.
The shuttle that was supposed to take people from the parking lot to the model pavilion was supposed to arrive in 5 minutes, but after 15 minutes, nothing. After waiting 15 minutes, I saw a man walking and asked if I could follow him. In 15 minutes, we arrived, and still no sign of the shuttle—it must have passed us. Arrived at the model pavilion.
My husband had already checked in the suitcases with the help of a CFC staff member. The remaining formalities were completed quickly. We were on board by 12:15 PM. Headed to the buffet on deck 11 and waited in a lounge to access our cabin.
At 2 PM, we discovered our balcony cabin on deck 9 at the rear: spacious with a large balcony compared to MSC/COSTA.
Since we were at the rear, cabin 9202, there was always an issue with elevator number 4: "priority."
Elevator number 2 stops at deck 10... and elevator number 3 was often out of order, leaving only number 1 for those with mobility issues to reach the buffet, especially for people who struggle with stairs. Note: only one child on board and lots of "gray hair."
DAY 2: At sea. Lots of activities offered.
Day 3: GOTHENBURG (Sweden). Sunny, 19°C at 11 AM.
Excursion booked with CFC: Gothenburg and Haga for all.
Interesting visit with a great guide. The HAGA district, in our opinion, is full of cobblestones and nothing special, not suitable for people using a cane or wheelchair. Elevator number 3 was out of order again.
Day 4: Copenhagen. 15°C in the morning, showers in the afternoon.
We didn’t book an excursion since we’d already stopped here with CFC in 2025, and based on advice from this forum, we took the hop-on/hop-off bus right in front of the ship. I still went to see the Little Mermaid again.
No TV, but the elevator was fixed.
DAY 5: At sea. Still no TV.
DAY 6: GDANSK (Poland). 15°C, rain all day.
There’s a shuttle to get to the city center.
We took the excursion: Panorama of Gdansk.
The guide left us at the entrance of the city center for 45 minutes, telling us what to visit. Meet-up for the rest of the tour at 3 PM. The bus left at 3:15 PM to cover 10 km to see St. Mary’s Cathedral. We arrived at 4:16 PM... The guide said there are often traffic jams in that direction. We had 10 minutes on site before heading to see the lighthouse and the Westerplatte monument, where we also had 10 minutes.
Many of us wondered why we didn’t do the tour in the opposite direction since they knew there would be traffic...
I went to reception to complain about the organization. The staff member read me the program: we were supposed to start with the lighthouse, then go to the cathedral and stay for 30 minutes before heading to the center of Gdansk for a short guided walk with some free time to buy souvenirs, etc.
The guide did the complete opposite of what was planned and didn’t even give us a guided tour—just dropped us off in the city...
DAY 7: Bornholm Island (Denmark). 14°C, a few sunny spells.
We saw in the excursions that there was a walking tour of RØNNE. So, like many others, we explored on our own. There was a small orchestra welcoming us at the port and two people with city maps. We took the shuttle to leave the port—it ran every 15 minutes. The tourist office was next to the "shuttle bus." A pleasant visit at our own pace.
DAY 8: KIEL (Germany). 18–23°C, nice weather.
We took the "Kiel for all" excursion. Great guide and interesting visits.
The port is in the city, and in 10 minutes, we were in the city center by following a blue line on the ground from the port. Elevator 3 was stuck again... and the TV was back.
DAY 9: At sea. Elevator 3 works.
DAY 10: At sea. Elevator 3 is out of order again...
DAY 11: Disembarkation in Dunkirk.
Cabins had to be vacated by 7:30 AM. Buffet open until 9 AM.
Elevator number 1 was "reserved," leaving only number 2, which doesn’t go up to deck 11... a problem for people with mobility issues who had to cross the entire deck 11 and try to use one of the four working elevators at the front, which were crowded.
My opinion: Interesting stops.
The onboard staff were always welcoming, smiling, and mostly French-speaking.
Evening shows were better than in March/April 2025—better singers, dancers, and presenters, and the costumes were improved.
I liked the "magician" shows less.
There were three onboard lectures by a very cultured person, but they went off-topic and were too historical for my taste. I didn’t attend the other two; my husband went to the second but not the third.
For this cruise, there was a bridge theme, but we’re not players or interested.
We didn’t take a drink package on board—water, coffee, tea, and herbal teas were available.
We had a water leak in our cabin the night before disembarkation. We reported it, and after the technical staff came (with a translator who didn’t speak English), we were asked to leave the cabin for a while for repairs. We went to a lounge, and after 1.5 hours, I checked in at reception. The repair took longer than expected... we had to change cabins... not ideal the night before disembarkation. No balcony cabins were available, so we got an ocean-view cabin, 6075, with a bathtub (impossible for both of us to use). We packed our suitcases, took a shower in our cabin, and moved to the new one. Noise from chairs until 12:30 AM because the cabin was under a lounge, and constant ventilation noise in the hallway... sleep was hard to come by. Disembarkation: Well organized. We were helped with transporting the two suitcases and bags to the waiting room while I took the shuttle to get the car. Guylène
We had a water leak in our cabin the night before disembarkation. We reported it, and after the technical staff came (with a translator who didn’t speak English), we were asked to leave the cabin for a while for repairs. We went to a lounge, and after 1.5 hours, I checked in at reception. The repair took longer than expected... we had to change cabins... not ideal the night before disembarkation. No balcony cabins were available, so we got an ocean-view cabin, 6075, with a bathtub (impossible for both of us to use). We packed our suitcases, took a shower in our cabin, and moved to the new one. Noise from chairs until 12:30 AM because the cabin was under a lounge, and constant ventilation noise in the hallway... sleep was hard to come by. Disembarkation: Well organized. We were helped with transporting the two suitcases and bags to the waiting room while I took the shuttle to get the car. Guylène
Hello!
After a lot of hesitation between different cruise lines (Explora, Oceania, YC, HAL, NCL) and several destinations like Norway, Ireland, and Iceland,
I finally chose NCL’s Star for Iceland. I had already looked at this itinerary when I went to Scotland in April with CFC, but it was really expensive. You should know that CFC often offers last-minute deals 45 days before departure (the point when you can no longer cancel or modify). So, I got a great opportunity and grabbed it. Departure is on August 23rd.


I finally chose NCL’s Star for Iceland. I had already looked at this itinerary when I went to Scotland in April with CFC, but it was really expensive. You should know that CFC often offers last-minute deals 45 days before departure (the point when you can no longer cancel or modify). So, I got a great opportunity and grabbed it. Departure is on August 23rd.


Hi there,
I'm looking at a cruise in the north.Which one do you think is more interesting? Thanks
hi there
Here’s the cruise schedule for 2026.
It’s a great way to get ideas and maybe even meet up with other members.
2 essential rules:
1) never "quote" the calendar when replying—this’ll avoid any confusion 2) follow the format below DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / /
REMINDER Despite my requests, few people follow the requested format. Cruises that stray too far from it won’t be listed anymore—sorry!PLEASE respect the templates! COPY AND PASTE THE FORMAT BELOW AND REPLACE WITH YOUR DETAILS IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / / It takes time to fix mistakes, so THANKS TO EVERYONE for your help!
YOUR TURN 😉
NUMBER OF CRUISES 2026: JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
1) never "quote" the calendar when replying—this’ll avoid any confusion 2) follow the format below DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / /
REMINDER Despite my requests, few people follow the requested format. Cruises that stray too far from it won’t be listed anymore—sorry!PLEASE respect the templates! COPY AND PASTE THE FORMAT BELOW AND REPLACE WITH YOUR DETAILS IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING DD/MM - username / SHIP IN CAPS / number of days / cruise title / departure port DON’T FORGET THE SPACES between the / / It takes time to fix mistakes, so THANKS TO EVERYONE for your help!
YOUR TURN 😉
NUMBER OF CRUISES 2026: JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Hello
We’re taking an MSC cruise in May, and after the Cinque Terre, we’ll be stopping in Naples. We’d like to know if it’s possible to walk out of the port quickly and reach a nice area of Naples on foot (we’re two older people). While we’re at it, I’ll ask the same question for Palermo, since we’ll be there the next day. Thanks for your replies.
We’re taking an MSC cruise in May, and after the Cinque Terre, we’ll be stopping in Naples. We’d like to know if it’s possible to walk out of the port quickly and reach a nice area of Naples on foot (we’re two older people). While we’re at it, I’ll ask the same question for Palermo, since we’ll be there the next day. Thanks for your replies.
Hi everyone,
I’m staying in a suite on the Pacifica in October and I can’t find any details about the suite benefits beyond the elite restaurant, the butler, and the espresso machine.
What about breakfast and meals served free in the cabin, and the spa?
Costa’s been cutting back on perks for Gold members, and it seems like suites are next.
Thanks for your replies!
hi,
I’m leaving Hamburg for Iceland at the end of July. The boat arrives in Reykjavik on Tuesday, August 4th at 8 AM, and I’d like to book a day trip like the Golden Circle or Secret Lagoon… The sites like GetYourGuide and others list departures at 8 AM. If you’ve used these sites with the MSC Preziosa, could you let me know how to go about it?
Thanks! 😉
allyMB007
Hi
Has anyone taken the CFC recently?
Thoughts?
Thanks
Thoughts?
Thanks
Hello everyone,
It’s with immense sadness that I learned this morning of the passing of our friend Nathalie (nadu). Many of us knew her through this forum, which she loved so much. She enjoyed reading your travel stories, joining discussions, sharing her cruise reviews, and offering valuable advice—always with kindness, gentleness, and discretion.
For me, Nathalie was so much more than just a cruise enthusiast. She was a friend, a deeply kind person who was always there to listen, despite the many health challenges she faced with tremendous courage. We corresponded regularly, and sometimes we had the chance to visit each other’s homes or attend the cruise show together with our respective husbands.
We shared a common dream: when we both retired, we had planned to finally go on a cruise together. Life had other plans, and that trip will forever remain a journey we never had the chance to take. That thought weighs heavily on my heart today.
I’ll remember her as a gentle, generous woman who was always ready to help others. Her presence on this forum will leave a huge void, just as her friendship has in my life.
I send my sincerest thoughts to her husband, her family, and all those who had the chance to know her.
Fair winds, Nathalie. I like to think you’re now sailing on an infinitely calm sea, under an eternally blue sky. You’ll remain in our thoughts and hearts every time we talk about cruises or set off on a new journey.
Rest in peace, Nathalie.
For those who’d like to send a message of comfort and sympathy to her husband, you can send me a PM, and I’ll pass it along. THANK YOU
For me, Nathalie was so much more than just a cruise enthusiast. She was a friend, a deeply kind person who was always there to listen, despite the many health challenges she faced with tremendous courage. We corresponded regularly, and sometimes we had the chance to visit each other’s homes or attend the cruise show together with our respective husbands.
We shared a common dream: when we both retired, we had planned to finally go on a cruise together. Life had other plans, and that trip will forever remain a journey we never had the chance to take. That thought weighs heavily on my heart today.
I’ll remember her as a gentle, generous woman who was always ready to help others. Her presence on this forum will leave a huge void, just as her friendship has in my life.
I send my sincerest thoughts to her husband, her family, and all those who had the chance to know her.
Fair winds, Nathalie. I like to think you’re now sailing on an infinitely calm sea, under an eternally blue sky. You’ll remain in our thoughts and hearts every time we talk about cruises or set off on a new journey.
Rest in peace, Nathalie.
For those who’d like to send a message of comfort and sympathy to her husband, you can send me a PM, and I’ll pass it along. THANK YOU
Hello everyone,
So happy to be back on this Forum!
We’re heading off on another cruise—our 7th—after a 5-year break...
We’ll be leaving from Venice on April 26th with stops in Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini, and Ancona.
Could you help me plan the stops by sharing tips, tricks, and advice?
For those who already know me, you know we prefer not to take the cruise line’s excursions but instead organize everything ourselves.
Thanks in advance to everyone, and looking forward to chatting with you all!
Hello,
We’re taking a cruise to Northern Europe with a stop in SOUTHAMPTON.
We’d like to visit the Stonehenge site.
Is it possible to get there on our own (my husband is a wheelchair user), since the MSC excursion to Salisbury is priced at 127 € per person?
There’s also a stop in Rotterdam, and it seems there’s a "miniature village to visit" nearby. Has anyone here been there, and if so, how did you get there?
Thanks so much for your tips. Mum49
If you're traveling on the Costa Diadema from October 17th to 28th, 2026 to Lisbon, we can meet up for a drink. Share our cruising experiences, an excursion, a table...
hi there, a group of friends and I are going on a cruise at the end of June with CFC in Norway. I’d love to get some info on the different stops we’ll be making. Most of them are one-day stops (from around 10 AM to 8 PM on average). Here are the stops: Andalsnes, Trondheim, Honningsvåg, Alta, Hellesylt, Sandane, Austefjorden.
Thanks in advance to anyone who can share what there is to see or do in these places.
When I get back, I’ll post what we did—it might help others who come after us.
Also, does anyone know if the boat sticks to the arrival time in Dunkirk for catching tickets to head back south? We’ll plan a buffer just in case.
Thanks everyone!
Thanks in advance to anyone who can share what there is to see or do in these places.
When I get back, I’ll post what we did—it might help others who come after us.
Also, does anyone know if the boat sticks to the arrival time in Dunkirk for catching tickets to head back south? We’ll plan a buffer just in case.
Thanks everyone!
Hi there, The day before boarding the Costa Favolosa for the Norwegian Fjords cruise departing from Hamburg, I'd like to book a hotel. Which one would be the most convenient location-wise relative to the port?
Thanks in advance for your reply.
Hello,
We’ll be sailing on the Renaissance with CFC to southern Norway from July 4 to 11, 2026, departing from Dunkirk (the cruise was booked through "Planète Croisière").
When entering some personal details or pre-selecting options on the CFC website, I’m wondering about the "optional" categories for drinks and WiFi.
I’m actually a bit surprised by these extra charges, as we weren’t used to them on other cruises (Australis in Patagonia; Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express in Norway and Alaska; Rivages du Monde in the Arctic or on the Douro River; a Nile river cruise in Egypt), where we sometimes had access to basic drinks at meals and free WiFi when near land.
Anyway, for those who’ve already taken a CFC cruise on the Renaissance, could you share some advice? Specifically about the most basic drink package, called "Fraîcheur" (238 € for two), which doesn’t seem to be described anywhere. The "Premium" package seems excessive (490 € for two for the week) for light drinkers.
As for WiFi, it’s 10 € per day per person. While I find that price acceptable for parking our car in Dunkirk, it feels overpriced here (especially since it was free on the Nordlys "Coastal Express" just 3 or 4 years ago).
So, I’d love to hear from experienced cruisers who’ve been on this ship!
Looking forward to seeing the excursion prices, which should be available soon! 😐
Thanks in advance!
Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
I’d love to hear from travelers who’ve done this cruise with Rivages du Monde or CroisiEurope.
Thanks!
Elettra69
Hi there,
I’m considering a cruise on this ship in the recently introduced Yacht Club category.
Have any forum members tried it?
What are your thoughts? Positive or negative? Which cabins should we go for—or avoid?
We’re already familiar with the Yacht Clubs on the Splendida, Fantasia, Preziosa, and Divina series.
We weren’t as keen on the one on the Seashore—we found it too big.
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Best,
Claudine
We're considering a new cruise soon and would like to try the Renaissance.
The uniqueness of the promenade cabins appeals to us, but could anyone give us some insights on the following points:
- Is the glass door sufficiently tinted to prevent outsiders from seeing into the cabin?
- Is the soundproofing good enough to block out conversations on the promenade deck?
Thanks in advance to anyone who can help!
Hi there,
Do you have a hotel near the cruise port (or easy to reach by metro with luggage) to recommend? I’m planning to spend two days there before boarding.
Thanks in advance! Claudine
Do you have a hotel near the cruise port (or easy to reach by metro with luggage) to recommend? I’m planning to spend two days there before boarding.
Thanks in advance! Claudine
Hello,
My husband, our two teens, and I are going on a cruise on the COSTA Esmeralda at the beginning of July. We’re thinking of exploring the ports on our own. Do any of you have recent experiences or tips to share? Are there shuttles between the port and the city center? Are they free? Looking forward to hearing from you.
My husband, our two teens, and I are going on a cruise on the COSTA Esmeralda at the beginning of July. We’re thinking of exploring the ports on our own. Do any of you have recent experiences or tips to share? Are there shuttles between the port and the city center? Are they free? Looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi, can you eat in the evening at the Costa Smeralda’s cafeteria, or do you have to dine at the restaurant? Thanks for your reply.
contact me to get referred at MSC, for your first cruise or if you haven't traveled with MSC in over 5 years
Hi everyone,
As promised, here’s my review of the cruise I took from the 5th to the 19th on the MSC Virtuosa.
As you know, I had initially booked a cruise with Mein Schiff departing from Dubai (from Dubai to Cape Town). It was a 22-day cruise. Due to the issues in the Persian Gulf, my cruise was canceled by Mein Schiff.
So, we started looking for a Plan B because we really wanted to go. Especially my wife, who had just had a minor procedure and needed some rest. Since she had already taken time off, she was determined to travel. However, we were looking for an affordable Plan B since we weren’t sure when Mein Schiff or the airline would reimburse us.
While browsing online, I found a 15-day cruise departing from Pointe-à-Pitre (including flights, transfers, the cruise, and drinks) for a price of 1,200 € in a Fantastica balcony cabin. We thought, *Why not?*
I should mention that I’m not usually a big fan of MSC. My last experience with them was post-Covid (I took two cruises, one in 2021 and another in 2022), and it was honestly a disaster. We didn’t want to repeat that, but after talking to Catherine, who told me she was very happy with a short Christmas cruise, we decided to give it a try.
I have to say, I was left speechless. Honestly, the cruise was absolutely perfect. There’s nothing to complain about (or just a few minor details). In terms of service and food, I felt like I was on a premium cruise line. I’d even say MSC has nothing to envy from some of those companies. While premium lines like Holland, Celebrity, and Royal are cutting back on services, I think MSC has made huge improvements. Seriously, I wasn’t expecting this at all. You’ll see what I mean as we chat more.
I won’t do a full review like I usually do because there weren’t many stops: 1. We boarded in Pointe-à-Pitre 2. We stopped in Saint-Martin 3. Then it was a direct crossing to the Azores...
This cruise was really about relaxing, even if it’s not the kind of trip we usually take.
First off, I’m not a big fan of "flight and cruise" packages. I asked if we could leave two days early, but they said it wasn’t possible. We had to take the flight, then the bus, and board the ship directly.
It’s not really my thing, but given the price we paid and since we really wanted to relax, we thought, *Why not?*
Here’s the itinerary:
Boarding in Pointe-à-Pitre Saint-Martin Five days at sea The Azores Four days at sea Hamburg One day at sea Le Havre

But as I mentioned, it wasn’t about the itinerary. It was really about taking a break and unwinding. Honestly, I came back thrilled.
Departure and boarding details to come
As promised, here’s my review of the cruise I took from the 5th to the 19th on the MSC Virtuosa.
As you know, I had initially booked a cruise with Mein Schiff departing from Dubai (from Dubai to Cape Town). It was a 22-day cruise. Due to the issues in the Persian Gulf, my cruise was canceled by Mein Schiff.
So, we started looking for a Plan B because we really wanted to go. Especially my wife, who had just had a minor procedure and needed some rest. Since she had already taken time off, she was determined to travel. However, we were looking for an affordable Plan B since we weren’t sure when Mein Schiff or the airline would reimburse us.
While browsing online, I found a 15-day cruise departing from Pointe-à-Pitre (including flights, transfers, the cruise, and drinks) for a price of 1,200 € in a Fantastica balcony cabin. We thought, *Why not?*
I should mention that I’m not usually a big fan of MSC. My last experience with them was post-Covid (I took two cruises, one in 2021 and another in 2022), and it was honestly a disaster. We didn’t want to repeat that, but after talking to Catherine, who told me she was very happy with a short Christmas cruise, we decided to give it a try.
I have to say, I was left speechless. Honestly, the cruise was absolutely perfect. There’s nothing to complain about (or just a few minor details). In terms of service and food, I felt like I was on a premium cruise line. I’d even say MSC has nothing to envy from some of those companies. While premium lines like Holland, Celebrity, and Royal are cutting back on services, I think MSC has made huge improvements. Seriously, I wasn’t expecting this at all. You’ll see what I mean as we chat more.
I won’t do a full review like I usually do because there weren’t many stops: 1. We boarded in Pointe-à-Pitre 2. We stopped in Saint-Martin 3. Then it was a direct crossing to the Azores...
This cruise was really about relaxing, even if it’s not the kind of trip we usually take.
First off, I’m not a big fan of "flight and cruise" packages. I asked if we could leave two days early, but they said it wasn’t possible. We had to take the flight, then the bus, and board the ship directly.
It’s not really my thing, but given the price we paid and since we really wanted to relax, we thought, *Why not?*
Here’s the itinerary:
Boarding in Pointe-à-Pitre Saint-Martin Five days at sea The Azores Four days at sea Hamburg One day at sea Le Havre

But as I mentioned, it wasn’t about the itinerary. It was really about taking a break and unwinding. Honestly, I came back thrilled.
Departure and boarding details to come
Hi there
Is the water from the cabin sinks drinkable?
Is the water from the cabin sinks drinkable?
We’re stopping over in Rovinj this coming May, and since we’ve already visited the main sights (port, church, etc.), is there a walk we can do on our own—no boat needed—that would fill a morning?
Thanks to anyone who knows the area…
My wife and I are going on a cruise on the MS Vesteralen on August 4th. The ship stays close to the coast to deliver mail and packages. My wife is a musician and is sensitive to the movement of the boat. Which deck and cabin should we choose?
Thanks in advance
Thanks in advance
Hi there,
So, I booked this cruise...
I know CFC gets a lot of criticism—
- And that it’s not really like the ships I usually take.
But the destination really interested me...
So, I’m giving it a try...
I’m going in with an open mind, thinking I got a good deal, so I’m not expecting the same experience as when I travel with Yacht Club or The Haven.
We’ll see... soon!hi, we’re going on a cruise with MSC Virtuosa in the Caribbean. Has anyone done this cruise before and could give us some tips for excursions on the different islands? Thanks for your help
😉Hi there,
A few months ago, CFC put the EN VOGUE experience on sale, departing from Dunkirk.
I booked this package to test the boat and onboard services for myself.
I’d read a lot of reviews mentioning numerous issues on board, so I wanted to see for myself what it was really like…
Okay, I’ll stop rambling… The package included boarding at 6 PM on Friday, dinner, a show, an overnight stay, and breakfast. We chose an interior cabin for this experience—since the boat wasn’t leaving the dock, we didn’t see the point in paying more… All in all, it cost 130 € per person. My mom joined us; she got the same cabin for 130 € with no single occupancy supplement.
We’d checked in online to board faster. We took the train to DUNKIRK, then a taxi to the shuttle pavilion—7 € for the ride. When we arrived at the pavilion, we were told to wait because there was a connection issue with check-in. Great start… After about ten minutes, we were finally allowed to proceed. At the counter, they said they didn’t have our cabin cards and no record of our check-in… Very odd. With no solution, they put us on the bus and said we’d sort it out at reception. Perfect. We went through security, and they confiscated our water bottles—never seen that before! Then they said my mom had a corkscrew in her bag, so they searched it… but there was no corkscrew. Total amateur hour… They eventually dropped it.
We got on the bus for a ten-minute ride… We boarded the ship with a crew member and headed to reception. Turns out, we weren’t the only ones in this situation. The nightmare began… Only two staff members were handling all the issues, and everything seemed complicated. They told my mom her cabin had been given to someone else 😲. That was the last straw…
It took forever—they had to redo the entire check-in. Finally, they told my mom her cabin was good to go; they’d mixed her up with someone else… After a solid half-hour, we could finally head to our cabin.
I’m determined to test everything: the pool, jacuzzi, show, restaurant, spa, etc… TO BE CONTINUED
Okay, I’ll stop rambling… The package included boarding at 6 PM on Friday, dinner, a show, an overnight stay, and breakfast. We chose an interior cabin for this experience—since the boat wasn’t leaving the dock, we didn’t see the point in paying more… All in all, it cost 130 € per person. My mom joined us; she got the same cabin for 130 € with no single occupancy supplement.
We’d checked in online to board faster. We took the train to DUNKIRK, then a taxi to the shuttle pavilion—7 € for the ride. When we arrived at the pavilion, we were told to wait because there was a connection issue with check-in. Great start… After about ten minutes, we were finally allowed to proceed. At the counter, they said they didn’t have our cabin cards and no record of our check-in… Very odd. With no solution, they put us on the bus and said we’d sort it out at reception. Perfect. We went through security, and they confiscated our water bottles—never seen that before! Then they said my mom had a corkscrew in her bag, so they searched it… but there was no corkscrew. Total amateur hour… They eventually dropped it.
We got on the bus for a ten-minute ride… We boarded the ship with a crew member and headed to reception. Turns out, we weren’t the only ones in this situation. The nightmare began… Only two staff members were handling all the issues, and everything seemed complicated. They told my mom her cabin had been given to someone else 😲. That was the last straw…
It took forever—they had to redo the entire check-in. Finally, they told my mom her cabin was good to go; they’d mixed her up with someone else… After a solid half-hour, we could finally head to our cabin.
I’m determined to test everything: the pool, jacuzzi, show, restaurant, spa, etc… TO BE CONTINUED