3Sisters

@Kendall James-VargasI don't think you can go wrong with exploring the Pacific Coast! El Faro lighthouse seems like a must see while in Mazatlan. The scenery looks unbeatable.

@Kendall James-Vargas Thanks for that! I will look into those cruise lines! @KristineF I would imagine the cruise line attracts a different crowd than the family-friendly cruise lines!

@Kendall James-Vargas That's a good observation! Hopefully it's just the region's protocols that are inhibiting travel to those areas. It looks like the cruise line has added some new ships too, and that is promising. It's new flagship, Costa Toscana, just began sailing this year! https://www.cruisehive.com/costa-flagship-arrives-in-dubai-for-a-season-of-middle-east-cruises/90667

@kefthecruiser You got me laughing! That's very true the cost of everything is high, but maybe the cost really is worth it. I heard they have a better selection of foods in the main dining room that other lines. I have seen cruise lines limiting lobster tails, and I bet Disney Cruise Line can afford to continue offering those unlimited offerings with its high fares!

@Kendall James-Vargas It is really hard to find a cabin that fits more that 4 guests. I have more than 4 in my family so Icon of the Seas certainly looks like the most accommodating for my family.

@FJB Thanks for that. I will save my specialty dining purchases for the first day of sailing! I also haven't cruised the line since my honeymoon. That's why I am searching for some current tips.

@kefthecruiser That's too funny. I really hope not! I guess that's one way to get your money's worth after splurging on a beverage package. Maybe it was used as a baby play area! That could be unsafe if the baby is over the age of 1 though.

@Emrys I also voted for Grand Turk. The waters are so beautiful, and I fully agree about the scenery. I love being able to see the cruise ships in the background.

@Kendall James-Vargas I thought so too! Everyone needs a friend like you! Organization is the key to planning a wonderful vacation.

@RoadTravelled Rudi's Seagrill looks amazing! https://www.carnival.com/-/media/images/explore/dining/menus/rudis-seagrill-menu.pdf Check out this menu.

@Kendall James-Vargas I wish I was in New York for NYE! It's certainly on the bucket list.

Does anyone have any tips for cruising with Royal Caribbean? I'm particularly interested in any money-saving tips, such as pre-board purchases that may be worthwhile.

@Kendall James-Vargas I wonder how they filled it up!

@FJB You are so right. Of all of the people in my life, my grandma has the most free time and responds the fastest! For someone who prefers an internet-free cruise experience, the cruise lines are surely making it difficult! With all of the apps out there, I look silly not using it. They apps are super convenient too!

Although the market isn't at its peak, Carnival Corporation's stock is on the decline. It seems like the brand is struggling to regain sailing in Asia and Australia. One of its brands, Costa Cruises is particularly struggling to return to its post-pandemic operations. It was recently said that the line is selling two of its ships. It seems like there may be a merge in the works. Carnival Venezia will be joining the Carnival fleet in June 2023. Thoughts? https://www.cruisehive.com/is-carnivals-global-brand-presence-now-causing-issues/91265

@Kendall James-Vargas Some of the staterooms even have slides! This ship looks like the ultimate family vacation.

@Woody14 That's awesome! Carnival Panorama was the first cruise ship to return to Mazatlan post-pandemic in August of 2021! https://www.cruisehive.com/carnival-panorama-becomes-first-cruise-ship-to-return-to-mazatlan/55229 I have never sailed on the ship before, but the waterpark onboard looks amazing! https://www.cruisehive.com/carnival-cruise-line-unveils-carnival-panorama-water-park/30796 Was it as cool as it looks?

@FJB I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! You are one awesome parent to fulfill the Barbie cruise ship request. Did you receive any cruising gift cards this year?

@Jim Lamb and @FJB I am able to view the webpage! I think that offering help to someone in need is important to do. It's particularly wonderful that the ship would stop enroute. @Kendall James-VargasIt's quite unusual the ship stopped for two boats!

@Judi Klocek What did you decide to do onboard for drinks other than the purchase of liquor bottles pre-departure?

@DeanneB That's good to know! I had no idea guests could have access to the service elevators.

@FJB Phone locked in a safe sounds like the best way to go! I'm not sure if the younger generations can go a day without the use of their phones. It's such an essential nowadays!

@bombarc Keep us posted on the post-cruise outcome. What a bummer you had such a difficult time getting ahold of the cruise line!

@Judi Klocek The liquor prices sure are going up! It's a money maker.

@KristineFI haven't experienced this either, but it seems so cool. I think my kids would really enjoy it! The menu sounds delicious too.