TAA5 - Shore Excursions! [Archive]

Horatius

29th January 2010, 05:27 PM

So, we mentioned having a thread about what people would like to do when in port. That hasn't happened yet, so far as I've seen, so here it is!

For the Grand Turks, I'm inclined to the:

CAPTAIN EXPLORER OUT-ISLAND AND SNORKELING EXPEDITION

Exhilarating boat rides, world class snorkelling and exploring uninhabited out-islands makes this an action packed expedition. Your small group will board a 38 foot boat that will take you on a fast-paced ride to your snorkelling and out-island adventure. Only accessible by boat, Hidden Bay is surrounded by untouched coral reefs. You’ll be provided with snorkelling gear and instructions, then you’re off to snorkel the hidden treasures beneath the turquoise water. You will encounter an abundance of tropical fish and a wide variety of healthy coral reef. After snorkelling you’ll hike to explore the old ruins on the island and the natural pools carved into the rocks along the shore line. Next you’ll be off again for another thrill ride as you cruise by Penniston Cay to view the rock formation of the island and the elusive nesting birds before heading up the coast of Grand Turk for views of the island.

I know others mentioned the SCUBA outing, but I'm leery of tying SCUBA for the first time with only a 20-minute intro ;)

This seems like a nice balance - some swimming, underwater adventure, and then a hike. And the Old Ruins sound interesting!

Any other opinions?

hcmom

29th January 2010, 05:51 PM

I haven't looked at many excursions yet, but I'm pretty sure I want to do a snorkeling one.

Oh, and btw...

Oh man oh man oh man oh man oh man oh man oh man oh man oh man!!!

Tamazon

30th January 2010, 01:34 PM

That sounds super cool Horatius. I want to do that one.

Horatius

30th January 2010, 03:39 PM

Well, that's three interested in snorkeling. There are other snorkeling outings though, so you should check them to see if another one catches you eye. The above is just the one I like best.

Hutch

30th January 2010, 05:35 PM

If you haven't found the shore excursions yet, here are the links:

St. Thomas: http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/Excursions.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=VIR_E&CalPort=STT
San Juan: http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/Excursions.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=PUE_E&CalPort=SJU
Grand Turks: http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/Excursions.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=TURK_E&CalPort=GTU

I love to snorkel,but I can't see anything without my glasses and the masks w/glasses tend to let the water in, so I'll look for something else.

The Catamaran trip sounds interesting....

Horatius

30th January 2010, 05:36 PM

The Catamaran trip sounds interesting....

I agree, but coming off of the Canadian Winter, I'm going to be looking to get in the water at some point!

HawaiiBigSis

30th January 2010, 06:14 PM

I love to snorkel,but I can't see anything without my glasses and the masks w/glasses tend to let the water in, so I'll look for something else.

Most of the snorkel outfitters should have "prescription" lenses in the snorkels, so you'll be able to see while you snorkel. Alternatively, if you wear contacts, you can wear them and then the "regular" snorkel mask will fit.

Definitely worth making the effort.

Beady

31st January 2010, 05:15 PM

Supposedly, Jeff already has a couple of things lined up, but he hasn't been replying when the subject's been raised.

ve2vfd

31st January 2010, 08:08 PM

I'm also in for an expedition or two folks!

Snorkeling, scuba, catamaran.... fun stuff!

Jeff, we'll need to know if something is lined up of if we have to book something with the cruise line.

Pat

phoenixphire24

1st February 2010, 01:00 PM

If Jeff does have things planned, I believe Grand Turks would be the only free day (although I'm sure you don't have to go with the group on the other days). I really want to do one of the snorkeling excursions. The one Horatius mentioned sounds like an excellent choice. The ones you can find on shore yourself are often cheaper, but then you have to find them.

Horatius

1st February 2010, 03:13 PM

Well, crap, i just noted this restriction on that outing:

Please note: The tour does not feature a guide. Space is limited, so please book early. Guests must be in good physical condition and good swimmers in order to participate in this tour. This tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from seasickness and those with mobility problems. Minimum age to participate is 6 years old. Snorkelling sites are subject to change due to sea and weather conditions. Maximum weight 300 pounds/21 stone 6 pounds/136 kilos

I'd rather not have them turn me away at the last minute, so I'll look into the other ones, as they don't all have the same warning.

The Central Scrutinizer

1st February 2010, 03:13 PM

Well, crap, i just noted this restriction on that outing:

I'd rather not have them turn me away at the last minute, so I'll look into the onterh ones, as they don't all have the same warning.

You're younger than 6?

Horatius

1st February 2010, 03:15 PM

This one sounds good too:

CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH

This tour offers the best combination of sailing on one of the most beautiful catamarans in the Caribbean, white sand beaches and extraordinary snorkelling. At the cruise centre, you will board the spacious seventy-eight foot catamaran where your courteous crew will be at your service during your whole adventure. With gentle trade winds, you will have a magical experience sailing through the crystal clear turquoise water up the coast of Grand Turk. Your first stop will be snorkelling on an underwater coral reef paradise that is teaming with the bright tropical fish life of the Caribbean! This secluded snorkelling haven will be yours to enjoy. After snorkelling, your friendly crew will serve you the legendary Oasis Breezer to sip on as you sail along the coast of Grand Turk while heading to a beautiful white sand beach. On the private beach, take time to sink your toes into the soft white sand as you unwind, relax on a float or discover the treasures of the island. You just need to sit back and relax to the island tunes as you enjoy your amazing journey, your crew will take care of everything.
Warning
Please note: Space is limited, so please book early. This tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from seasickness and those with mobility problems. Guests should wear a swimsuit under clothing and sensible footwear. Please do not forget your towel, plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses. Snorkels, masks, fins, safety vests, floats and snorkelling training will be provided. Guests must enter the water to access the beach and must be comfortable swimming in water too deep to stand up in. Minimum age is 6 years.

Horatius

1st February 2010, 03:22 PM

You're younger than 6?

Yes, that's it exactly!

The Central Scrutinizer

1st February 2010, 03:33 PM

Yes, that's it exactly!

Hopefully there aren't any priests on board.

Beady

1st February 2010, 04:59 PM

I think MB and I might just sack out in hammocks on Grand Turk, and let them ply us with drinks with little umbrellas. I do intend to get to El Moro, one way or another, and there seems plenty to see on St. Thomas.

Back on the ship, I think I'll just stretch out on deck and let them ply me with drinks with little umbrellas.

ve2vfd

1st February 2010, 05:17 PM

Thats a lot of little umbrellas :D

Pat

Beady

2nd February 2010, 03:12 AM

Yup. :)

Thing is, time is getting short for making plans. I hope we hear from Jeff pretty soon, otherwise we'll have to go it alone.

Horatius

3rd February 2010, 03:18 AM

Cross-quoting Jeff here:

Hello.... sorry I haven't been paying attention here. I've been swamped.

There will be two JREF events. They will not cost extra, but you will have to pay for expenses.

If you're going to come on the JREF tours, I recommend that you don't do any Costa excursions. The choice is completely yours, however. Our excursion in San Juan will not take all day... just a few hours really, but our trip to St. John will likely take all day.

On San Juan we will visit a haunted fort, one that will look very familiar to those who've ever seen or ridden Pirates of the Caribbean. The cost will be minimal, and I'm hoping we can simply walk there.

On St. Thomas, the original plan was to go to St. John and then visit Honeymoon Beach, which is spectacular. However, the logistics of this are more difficult than I originally thought. So while we will be going to St. John, I'm not sure what our final destination will be. St. John is largely a National Park, so it's really quite different from the shopper's paradise of St. Thomas. You'll have to make a choice as to what you want to see.

Grand Turk is a giant beach, and we won't have any planned activities.

I hope this helps you make your plans. Feel free to contact me at jeff@randi.org with any questions, or to poke me to answer questions asked here. :)

Okay, based on that, I'll be booking my spot on the "CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH" described above later today. If I'm alone, I'm alone!

Beady

3rd February 2010, 03:32 AM

We're in for the fort, barring some questions I've PM'd Jeff about, but I think we'll stick around St. Thomas and take a couple of local tours. For Grand Turk, I plan to stick to my original idea of the hammock and drinks with little umbrellas.

Tamazon

3rd February 2010, 07:00 AM

Can one pre-book a shore excursion and then cancel without penalty if one decides they don't want to go on said excursion once they get on the ship?

Horatius

3rd February 2010, 04:05 PM

Can one pre-book a shore excursion and then cancel without penalty if one decides they don't want to go on said excursion once they get on the ship?

I just booked the Catamaran snorkeling thing I listed above. It came with this warning:

Refunds and cancellations
No refunds will be given on any ticket, coupon, or voucher once an excursion has been purchased. There can be no exceptions to this policy because arrangements must be made with agents at each port prior to the ship's arrival. Shore excursions are subject to cancellation or modification, depending on the number of guests participating. Full refunds will be granted to guests holding tickets for canceled shore excursions.Costa Crociere reserves the right to cancel any excursion due to strikes, civil disturbances, or any reason whatsoever. In the event of a tour cancellation or modification, advance notice will be given by the Cruise Director and/or staff.

Cleon

3rd February 2010, 04:50 PM

Costa Crociere reserves the right to cancel any excursion due to strikes, civil disturbances, or any reason whatsoever.

You'd think they'd say "due to inclement weather, equipment malfunctions, or other unforeseen circumstances." But no - they go right for "strikes and civil disturbances."

Makes you wonder what kind of places these are. :p

ve2vfd

3rd February 2010, 05:07 PM

Hmmm that catamaran/snorkeling expedition is mighty tempting!

Pat

Horatius

3rd February 2010, 05:22 PM

Hmmm that catamaran/snorkeling expedition is mighty tempting!

Pat

Come...join the Dark Side...We have Oasis Breezers, whatever those are....?

Tamazon

3rd February 2010, 05:23 PM

Thank-you Horatius. I am still partial to the "CAPTAIN EXPLORER OUT-ISLAND AND SNORKELING EXPEDITION" and would like to pre-book it to ensure a spot but then there is the worry that I'm stuck with it and may not want to take it for some unforeseen reason.

Anyone else want to go on that one with me?

Beady

4th February 2010, 04:10 AM

Come...join the Dark Side...We have Oasis Breezers, whatever those are....?

They're Hurricanes, with extra sugar.

kittynh

4th February 2010, 06:02 PM

the little umbrella drinks are lovely until you get the bill at the end of the cruise. Still.. partay on.

ricklesgibson

4th February 2010, 10:53 PM

the little umbrella drinks are lovely until you get the bill at the end of the cruise. Still.. partay on.

Note to self: Use Groucho Marx glasses when ordering umbrella drinks.

ricklesgibson

4th February 2010, 10:54 PM

Also, cut off leg, then smuggle local rum inside of wooden prosthesis.

Beady

5th February 2010, 03:37 AM

the little umbrella drinks are lovely until you get the bill at the end of the cruise. Still.. partay on.

Remember, I've done this before. TAA1, I drank ~$300. It's already in the budget.

One tip: Do not drink anything other than the Drink Of The Day; the price difference can be staggering, something like 80%. If you really like a particular drink, soak it up while it's the DOTD, 'cause you probably can't afford it during the rest of the cruise.

Horatius

5th February 2010, 04:39 AM

Remember, I've done this before. TAA1, I drank ~$300. It's already in the budget.

One tip: Do not drink anything other than the Drink Of The Day; the price difference can be staggering, something like 80%. If you really like a particular drink, soak it up while it's the DOTD, 'cause you probably can't afford it during the rest of the cruise.

About how much are the drinks usually? Anyone have any ideas?

Beady

5th February 2010, 05:34 AM

About how much are the drinks usually? Anyone have any ideas?

IIRC, the DOTD was usually something like $2.50. Otherwise, I dunno; ISTR $10.

OTOH, one thing I do remember clearly is that I bought a $500 wristwatch on board for $200. That was three years ago, I'm wearing it now, and I have yet to replace the battery (it's recharged by light - Ecodrive, I think they call it).

phoenixphire24

5th February 2010, 08:26 AM

My husband and I are signed up for the "CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH" with Horatius. You won't be alone! :p

phoenixphire24

5th February 2010, 08:31 AM

About how much are the drinks usually? Anyone have any ideas?

Here's a link to a cruising website that has some scans of Coasta menus (not from our ship and not sure how old) if you want some ideas http://cruiseclues.com/costamediterranea/bar_menus.htm

Horatius

5th February 2010, 08:42 AM

Here's a link to a cruising website that has some scans of Coasta menus (not from our ship and not sure how old) if you want some ideas http://cruiseclues.com/costamediterranea/bar_menus.htm

Thanks! Prices aren't too out of line for what I'd expect to pay in a bar around here.

Of course, that probably means the Americans will think they're getting screwed!

ve2vfd

5th February 2010, 09:25 AM

I'll be signing up for the catamaran/snorkeling outing when I get home from work tonight

Pat

Geek Goddess

5th February 2010, 03:36 PM

It seems the DOTD on the last cruise was about $5-6, while other went up from that.

One thing to remember is that they add a 15% tip automatically onto each bill as you sign it, so do NOT add more tip. They only take your room key, no cash.

I suspect if you have crappy service you can demand that they remove the auto-tip, I do not know the protocol for that.

I kept a pile of $1 and $2 coins/bills so that I could give small tips to the room steward for extra services- like bringing me a pot of coffee and pastry to my room each morning, or delivering a plate of fruit/cheese to the room in the afternoon or extra ice to the room. I didn't realize until I'd been on a couple cruises that you do not pay for having stuff brought in - not like room service.

ve2vfd

5th February 2010, 04:33 PM

Grand Turk "CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH" booked!

Fun fun fun!

Pat

Horatius

5th February 2010, 07:28 PM

Paaaarrrrr-taaayyyyy!

Everybody pack your Island Shirts!

Beady

7th February 2010, 08:46 AM

Everybody pack your Island Shirts!

You have no idea how right you are. I tried to buy some shirts onboard during TAA1 and found they were all marked two sizes too small, with nothing in my real size.

Horatius

7th February 2010, 03:31 PM

You have no idea how right you are. I tried to buy some shirts onboard during TAA1 and found they were all marked two sizes too small, with nothing in my real size.

Thanks for the heads-up. I, however, have quite a good collection of Obnoxious Party Shirts, so I'll be okay.

Jeff Wagg

9th February 2010, 10:41 AM

Drinks on board are "affordable' vs. resort prices, but they add a 15% gratuity that you have to remember. It's very easy to just keep signing and forget about paying until the last night. :)

kittynh

9th February 2010, 10:58 AM

the screams when they give you the print out with your "bill" is always interesting on a cruise!

still, what good is sitting by the pool without a daquiri?

ve2vfd

9th February 2010, 11:10 AM

Thanks for the heads-up. I, however, have quite a good collection of Obnoxious Party Shirts, so I'll be okay.

Same here :) I won't forget to bring a few of my loud "Hawaiian" shirts!

Yes I am a fan of bright loud flowery "Hawaiian" shirts! I even wear them to work in the summer :D (Montreal FD has been without a work contract since 2007 and as we do not have the right to strike, only administrative pressure tactics - like not wearing our uniforms - are allowed.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii222/ve2vfd/Misc/2008-05-02-101624.jpg

Pat

hcmom

9th February 2010, 12:18 PM

kittynh

11th February 2010, 09:31 AM

Same here :) I won't forget to bring a few of my loud "Hawaiian" shirts!

Yes I am a fan of bright loud flowery "Hawaiian" shirts! I even wear them to work in the summer :D (Montreal FD has been without a work contract since 2007 and as we do not have the right to strike, only administrative pressure tactics - like not wearing our uniforms - are allowed.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii222/ve2vfd/Misc/2008-05-02-101624.jpg

Pat

Pat, I've heard of budget cuts.... but the standards for Montreal FD have certainly dropped! I think some of those rookie fire fighters, while they are willing to work without a contract, might not work out as well as the city thinks! Plus it appears that one young lady is a member of the Canadain military?

Fitter

11th February 2010, 02:23 PM

Pat, I've heard of budget cuts.... but the standards for Montreal FD have certainly dropped! I think some of those rookie fire fighters, while they are willing to work without a contract, might not work out as well as the city thinks! Plus it appears that one young lady is a member of the Canadain military?
Ah you recognised the traditional navy pink raincoat.

ve2vfd

12th February 2010, 08:13 AM

Hcmom ... Down Hcmom down! :) But consider yourself lucky, that is one of the few pics of me where I am seen smiling :D

Kittyh ... Hee hee, yep todays rookies are not what they used to be! Not sure where the city is going with that.

Fitter ... Ouch! He he he I think some sailors might object to that :)

Pat

Morrigan

16th February 2010, 10:49 AM

Anything about snorkeling, I'm up for it. So who has booked what yet?

CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH: Horatius, phoenixphire24 + husband, ve2vfd ?

CAPTAIN EXPLORER OUT-ISLAND AND SNORKELING EXPEDITION - Tamazon (maybe)?

I'll check those out tonight myself and book something, probably the first one. The links for that are in Hutch's post on page 1, correct?

Another thing: anyone up for some SCUBA diving? I've only ever done it once, on a "Discover SCUBA" with a friend of mine who is Dive Master (e.g. authorized to initiate n00bs to scuba diving, which is what a "Discover SCUBA" is all about from what I understand), and it was awesome... and it was only in the St-Lawrence river, so diving in the Carribbean sounds like a dream. But, I don't know the details. There's some info here (http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/ExcursionDetail.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=VIR_E&CalPort=STT&Exc=EXC_3926) or here (http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/ExcursionDetail.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=TURK_E&CalPort=GTU&Exc=EXC_3831) but not much. I'm aware it's costly and requires a certain physical health, but I'm a crappy swimmer and I survived my first experience, and it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. But I'd rather not go alone myself. Anyone?

Tamazon

16th February 2010, 01:11 PM

CAPTAIN EXPLORER OUT-ISLAND AND SNORKELING EXPEDITION - Tamazon (maybe)?

Yup, all pre-booked. I like the part where it says "action packed".

hcmom

16th February 2010, 01:47 PM

If I have my way, El Spectre and I will be doing the Catamaran Sailaway one!!

ve2vfd

16th February 2010, 02:43 PM

Join us on the catamaran!

I did one of those cat+snorkeling outing in Cuba once a few years ago, it was awesome! No hesitation to book an excursion like that again.

Pat

politas

17th February 2010, 05:46 AM

Where do we go to book for the catamaran & snorkelling thing? It sounds like fun, I must say.

Horatius

17th February 2010, 05:59 AM

Where do we go to book for the catamaran & snorkelling thing? It sounds like fun, I must say.

It should be on this page:

http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/Excursions.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=TURK_E&CalPort=GTU

You'll need to register with the cruise line at that sight, and log on with your booking number that should be in the e-mails you received from Joe Wagg and the cruise line.

politas

17th February 2010, 06:22 AM

Ah. What a nuisance. I can't book for excursions, because I'm Australian. I guess I'll just have to hope it doesn't get booked out.

Cleon

17th February 2010, 08:47 AM

Ah. What a nuisance. I can't book for excursions, because I'm Australian.

Serves you right.

HawaiiBigSis

17th February 2010, 02:01 PM

If I have my way, El Spectre and I will be doing the Catamaran Sailaway one!!
One of the favorite activities of visitors to my rock, as well. Tons o' fun!

Ah. What a nuisance. I can't book for excursions, because I'm Australian. I guess I'll just have to hope it doesn't get booked out.
Is it just Australians, or all non-Americans? And why not? That makes no sense to me.

Horatius

17th February 2010, 06:45 PM

It worked for Canadians!

ve2vfd

17th February 2010, 06:54 PM

The Costas site mentions somewhere that online reservations for activities are only available for US/Canada... :(

Pat

Geek Goddess

21st February 2010, 04:16 PM

The Costas site mentions somewhere that online reservations for activities are only available for US/Canada... :(

Pat

Do they have a toll free number? Call them

politas

21st February 2010, 10:57 PM

Do they have a toll free number? Call them
I don't believe there exists toll free numbers for international calls.

Horatius

23rd February 2010, 09:23 AM

Been looking around, and was wondering if anyone else might be interested in renting a bike to take some of these tours.

There's a bike rental place on San Juan that seems to offer tours of the fort we're already planning on visiting:

http://www.puertoricodaytrips.com/rent-the-bicycle/

which means it's possible to do that. I'd probably prefer a bike to walking.

hcmom

23rd February 2010, 05:25 PM

That sounds like something I might love, Horatius. As a recent bicycle convert, I'm likely to be missing my 3-4 times a week ride, and this would be fun!

Oh, and by the way....

OH MAN OH MAN OH MAN OH MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

hcmom

24th February 2010, 04:30 PM

Ok, ES and I are doing this one: http://www.costacruise.com/B2C/USA/Shopping/Excursions/ExcursionDetail.htm?&Macro=EASTERN+CARIBBEAN&VCountry=TURK_E&CalPort=GTU&Exc=EXC_3838

Morrigan

1st March 2010, 02:28 PM

Ok so many have booked the CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH for the Grand Turks island.

But, has anyone booked anything for the other stops, e.g. St. Thomas and San Juan?

Anyone up for a DISCOVER SCUBA at St. Thomas? That would be surely awesome!

Morrigan

1st March 2010, 02:44 PM

NOOOO Goddammit! If I try to book the CATAMARAN excursion (and I swear, their web interface is the most godawful interface I've seen in a long time.. what a bloated, incoherent mess, ugh), I get this:

Attention: An error has occured
Shore Excursion(CATAMARAN SAILAWAY, SNORKELING & BEACH3581):Unfortunately, there are not enough spaces remaining on this excursion to satisfy your request.

Even though it appears as available in the list (others are crossed out and marked as sold out but not this one). No fair! :mad:

Edit: so I just booked CAPTAIN EXPLORER OUT-ISLAND AND SNORKELING EXPEDITION instead.

kittynh

1st March 2010, 03:44 PM

bummer!

I am doing my usual cut rate sit by the pool and listen to everyone talk about the fun excursions they had at dinner thing.

To me, after this winter, I'd sit in the parking lot in Florida and have a good time.

Geek Goddess

1st March 2010, 04:01 PM

I'm going on the JREF excursions to Blackbeard's castle and to whatever old fortress we're seeing in the other place

:)

Beady

2nd March 2010, 03:41 AM

To me, after this winter, I'd sit in the parking lot in Florida and have a good time.

Meanwhile, 100 miles north, I've had the snowblower out exactly once, this season (before Christmas). At the moment, we've got maybe an inch of snow on the ground, and that'll be gone by the time we get back.

Kind of disappointing, really. Even without the cruise, we were going to go on vacation in early March just to beat cabin fever, but winter has been really mild, here.