Caribbean cruise thoughts request

[HopeSheFloats]

My wife's boss offered her{us} a 7 day cruise aboard the 'Celebrity Summit' as a 'it's yours if you want it' type bonus. Meals, airfare, transfers, taxes and gratuities included. Itinerary consists of of 5 port of calls {Feb 2011 btw} Charlotte Amalie, St.Thomas-- Philipsburg, St.Maarten-- St.Johns, Antiqua--Castries, St. Lucia-- Bridgetown, Barbados--.

We are hoping some here can offer some insights on what to expect/consider towards... spending cash{primary concern}, tourist type traps{on-board &/or off ship}, Worth up-grading stateroom or not?{ocean view included in package}, extra's to bring along that may not have been considered Etc. etc. etc.

We're what I'd call 'upper class' folk...if there's such a title in 'Hillbilly Land'{lol}, definitely prefer casual over formal. Not totally tight-wads, but not financially comfortable either...can't even think off-hand of anyone we know who's experienced this sort of vacation and would luv to hear some thoughts...T.I.A.

Signed.......Apprehensive decision time :redface:

 

[sasto]

Re: Caribbean cruise thoughts request

... spending cash{primary concern},



Have never been on a cruise ship but have traveled to these places onboard a private boat. My local bank ATM (debit) card was used at several machines for cash with no fee. Usually have a choice of local currency or US$. Have fun.

 

[shuswap119]

Re: Caribbean cruise thoughts request

Try to upgrade to a balcony if it fits your budget, you will not regret that. If you like to drink the bar bills can add up pretty quick , but if its just a bottle of wine with dinner, you can get away with $20-30 bucks a night .
There are tons of activities on board that will cost you nothing or next to nothing. Take advantage of those and save some money for a couple side tours while in port and enjoy the experience!

Regrads,

 

[rbh]

Re: Caribbean cruise thoughts request

"I have heard"
You are not allowed to bring your own liqour on board, but many do!!!
That alone should save you ????????? $
have fun

 

[Sparkinator]

Re: Caribbean cruise thoughts request

Research the ports you will be visiting and sign up for the excursions as soon as you can. (oline if possible) Once on the ship, you can sign up as well, but usually there is a pretty long line when I was signing up. And with a long line behind you, you kind of feel pressured to 'keep the line' going.

Sign up for early dinner. You will eat for a while, and if you eat early, you can eat again before turning in for the night.