The Free Cruise Offer: Scam or Legit?

We've seen spokes model Carmen Electra touting free cruises on TV, received the award booklet mailing (with its official-looking stamps of approval from The Islands of the Bahamas, Alamo and Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort) and discovered the offer while browsing the Web.

We're told that collecting our free cruise is easy: Call an 800 number, or fill out a form, and it's time for two nights of zero-cost cruising.

Naturally, "scam" might be the first thing that comes to mind with such an offer. And it quickly becomes apparent that the * means it's not actually free.

It'll cost you a minimum of $59 per person for government fees and port taxes. There's nothing necessarily untoward here; the government taxes and fees are clearly stated, and $59 per person for a two-night Bahamas cruise -- which includes accommodations, all meals, entertainment and a call at Grand Bahama Island -- still seems like a decent deal for a quick getaway.

Still, people have had serious complaints when trying to book the offer, ranging from confusion about which company is making the offer (Caribbean Cruise Lines, which sends the deal, or Celebration Cruise Line, which operates the ships) to forced timeshare pitches and misleading pricing.

Cruise Critic did some research, including attempting to book a cruise, to help you determine whether the offer is a scam or a good deal. First, a bit of background:

Who is Caribbean Cruise Line, Anyway?

Mediterranean Cruises 101 Guide

 
Plan your perfect Mediterranean cruise vacation with our expert tips and easy-reference overview to the region

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• When is Mediterranean cruise season?me
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• What ports do Mediterranean cruises leave from?
• What kind of cruise lines operate in the Mediterranean?
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Mediterranean Cruises 101

Celebrity Launches iPad Art Tours

Earlier this year, Celebrity introduced the first "Celebrity iLounge," a center equipped with MacBook workstations, a retail space and an enrichment center. 

The iPads on each Solstice Class ship are now equipped with floor plans of every deck, with select works of art flagged.

The tour begins with a touch of the screen when guests select the work of art he or she would like to learn about. Details include the title, artist's name, medium used, description and image.
 
Celebrity's three Solstice Class ships are home to over 14,000 works of original art.

The new tours began on Celebrity Solstice as of August 15. They will continue on Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Equinox on August 21.

Visit www.celebritycruises.com

Source: Travel Agent Central

Last Minute Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

The newest and largest Royal Caribbean Ship! Many dining options from old favorites Chops Grille and Windjammer Cafe to new venues.

The first ship with 7 different neighborhoods, including the Boardwalk, Royal Promenade and Central Park.
Past guests of Royal Caribbean love the innovative ships with new features such as zip lines, AquaTheater and Loft accommodations.

EXCLUSIVE: Enjoy truly carefree cruising -- we will pre-pay the standard service gratuities for you and an additional guest in your stateroom when you book an Oceanview or higher category on ANY 5+ night Royal Caribbean sailing departing 9/8 -- 12/31/10.

Cruise priced from $909 Interior - Departs Ft. Lauderdale
Sailing Date(s):  Sep 2010, Oct 2010, Nov 2010

Hurry, book online by midnight Thursday, 8/19!

Cruise Lines Cutting Back on Mexican Riviera Voyages

Carnival has already announced it is making a big change to its Mexican Riviera cruises out of San Diego for the coming winter. The Carnival Spirit, which operates seasonally out of San Diego, will switch from eight-night Mexican Riviera voyages out of the city to alternating five- and nine-night voyages.

Royal Caribbean announced it would be pulling its only ship sailing to the Mexican Riviera -- the 3,114-passenger Mariner of the Seas -- out of the region in January.

Now add Crystal Cruises to the list of lines cutting back on voyages to the Mexican Riviera - and replacing 2 seven-night sailings scheduled for April 2011 with new trips along the West Coast of the USA between Los Angeles and Vancouver.

Rock band 311 and Sixthman Caribbean Cruise 2011

The band will take over the entire Carnival Destiny cruise ship from March 3-7, 2011, sailing from Miami to Turks and Caicos and back.

Every other year, 311 hosts a special "311 Day" concert on March 11 and fans travel from all over the world to attend. Now that March 2011 is coming up, the band looks to celebrate the month and year, 3/11, by hosting a four-night cruise.

To show their appreciation for their fans, 311 plan to take photos with each guest as they board the ship, host a question-and-answer session on the Lido Deck and take song requests for their three on-ship performances.

Other performers joining 311 on the cruise include Pepper, DJ Soulman from Phunk Junkeez and more to be announced soon.

On August 17, a dedicated 311 Caribbean Cruise website will be launched at www.311cruise.com. And on August 18, the Pre-Sale Sign Up for cabins will ensue at 3 p.m. at that dedicated website.

Visit www.sixthman.net.

Norwegian Epic - Wonder or Blunder

It's difficult for a new cruise ship to get noticed when it has 10 other new competitors in the same year - that is unless the particular ship offers something other cruise ships don't . . . 

I personally was excited to hear that Epic was going against all the major cruise lines in finally eliminating the dreaded "single cruise supplement" - and offering cabins specifically designed for the solo traveler.

My friend Toni loves to cruise, and often complains about not having a cruise companion available when she wants to travel. Paying the extra single supplement, or having a stranger as a cabin mate are not acceptable to her.
So when I sent her info on the Epic, she was game!

Upon her return, Toni had LOTS to say -

CABINS:

• Prior to the booking, Toni was aware that the cabin space would be small - and in her opinion the cabin only has ample space for one average sized person.

• The large bed was far too big for one person, and takes up valuable space, making it difficult to move around the cabin. 

• No balconies are available in the Solo cabin cateogry - all cabins are inside with a small frosted window that face a neon hallway.  Many of the solo cruisers felt the frosted window was a joke, and the cabins would be better without the neon glare.  

• Solo cabins have lots of lighting and cubbies for storage - however there is no room diagram provided on where to turn on/off the lights. Most of the solo cruisers complained of not finding the hidden cubbies, or being able to turn on/off lights until well into the cruise.

• The shower in the Solo cabins was a plus, and offers more space than your average cabin bath room.

•  Toni was able to view several cabins of fellow cruisers. The Deluxe Balcony Stateroom would be great for a couple, but way too small for 3-4 people.  And the regular Inside Cabins were enough to make her appreciate her solo cabin. She says the cabins are very small - the shower is located on one side of the cabin, while the toilet is on the other side - with the sink in the middle. Very strange configuration!

ENTERTAINMENT:

• The Studio Lounge and Bar - reserved for the Solo cabins - was a good place to meet and mingle with other solo travelers.

• The entertainment areas like the Epic Theatre (800 seats) and Spiegel Tent (120 seats) are much too small for 4,100 passengers. You definitely have to book everything as soon as you get onboard - as the performances sell out for the entire cruise. 

• AND be prepared to pay a cover for the onboard entertainment such as the Ice Bar, Cirque Show, Murder Mystery Lunch!

DINING:

• While Epic offers many dining venues (20 restaurants), only 3 are included in your cruise price. The other "specialty restaurants" have cover charges. Toni recommends the specialty dining at  Le Bistro ($20 cover), however declined the other specialty restaurant cover charges to stay on budget.

• The main dining venues that are included in your cruise price offer good food, but not much of a variety from day to day.

FACILITIES:

• The Gym has great facilities, and also one of the few places to view the sea! It's difficult to imagine a cruise ship that offers few sea view. 

• Jogging path has no sea views! Path is located on Deck 7 between the lifeboats and exhaust vents - providing little fresh air.

• The 2 pools are narrow, small and crowded. Water on the pool deck does not have proper drainage - an accident waiting to happen. 

• Epic offers no Library, Study or Secluded Lounges.

All in all, Toni says she had a great time, and met up with a lot of great people. Being a long time cruiser, she has seen the best, along with the worst. 

How does she rate the Epic overall?
Great price for solo cruisers, however she would not recommend for families - unless they are well aware of the small cabin spaces/odd bathroom configuration, and the many nickel and dime charges for entertainment/activities that quickly add up on your room cabin bill.

Would she sail Epic again?
Maybe - with one travel companion, and a Deluxe Balcony Stateroom.

Explore the Cruise Lines

In today's market there are numerous Cruise Ships, Schedules and Worldwide Destination Ports


View all of the major cruise lines, and check out the following:

• Ship Reviews

• Ship Photos & Tours

• Ship Details (Itineraries, deck plans and more)

EXPLORE MAJOR CRUISE LINES

World's First Cruise RV@Sea Cancelled

The world’s first theme cruise for RVers was set to depart from the port of Miami on November 6, 2010 - however the website fully states the cruise has been cancelled.


Visit the website for more info and future announcements
http://www.rvatsea.com/

Solo Travel International Cruise Expedition

Deal Dates Through September 29, 2011

International Expeditions is waiving the single supplement fee on 10-day cruises to the Galapagos Islands for January 7, May 27 and September 30, 2011, saving solo travelers 25%.

The itinerary visits nine islands on the 32-guest yacht M/V Evolution, which is small enough to access outlying Genovesa (Tower) Island.

The ship features landing craft that provides easy shore access in addition to an observation deck for whale watching, a canopied bar and complimentary snorkeling equipment, wetsuits and kayaks.

Highlights include visits to Fernandina Island, Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, Puerto Ayora (the islands' largest human settlement), the Charles Darwin Research Center (famous for its tortoise breeding programs), Kicker Rock and Santiago Island.

Guests will snorkel as well as hike through deserts, rainforests and volcanic terrain. Galapagos naturalist guides share their knowledge, bringing guests within inches of giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins and other animals.

Prices start at $4,998, and include accommodations, tax and transit fees, all excursions, 23 meals, transfers and tips to porters and waiters for included meals.

Visit www.ietravel.com

Source: Travel Agent Central

Crystal Cruise New Exclusive Access Adventures

Crystal Cruise offering nearly 100 brand new Crystal Adventures with its fall itineraries
 
This fall, Crystal guests can see what backstage life is like at the Monte Carlo Ballet, how the ponies live at St-Tropez's Polo Club, view Mexico's Sierra Madre mountains from a private plane and Copper Canyon by privately chartered rail - among other "private access" experiences.



The cruise line is offering nearly 100 brand new Crystal Adventures with its fall itineraries, offering travelers distinctly new perspectives on the destinations.

On 20 distinctive voyages this fall, Crystal's award-winning ships explore the Mediterranean, Black Sea, Holy Land, Canary Islands, British Isles, New England/Canada, Panama Canal and the Mexican Riviera. 

Many of the latest highlights ashore include VIP access and unique points of view.

Exclusive Access
*    Private visit to Venice's Doges Palace before it opens to the public for the day
*    Guided behind-the-scenes tour of the Monte Carlo Ballet, including the costume department
*    Behind-the-scenes visit to the Polo Club St-Tropez, exploring the stables and luxury clubhouse, and visit with the polo ponies

New Points of View
*    Explore Reykjavik's hot springs, lava fields, trails and mud banks;
*    In a private plane, soar over the Sierra Madre mountain range to Guadalajara to experience its musical, spiritual and artistic culture (from Puerto Vallarta)
*    Bay of Fundy discovery with guidance from a resident marine biologist highlighting the indigenous wildlife (St. John, New Brunswick)
*    Mountain biking adventure featuring spectacular island views on Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
With promotional, Two-for-One cruise fares, Crystal's fall itineraries start at $2,165, per person, and include generous 'All Inclusive - As You Wish' shipboard spending credits ($500-$1,000 per person, depending on itinerary).

For many voyages, complimentary air transportation is included - Business Class Air for Penthouse guests - as well as family incentives and discounted verandah staterooms and Penthouses.

Visit www.crystalcruises.com

Miami Pre-Post Cruise Package from Marriott

Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay hotel in downtown Miami, located near the Port of Miami, invites guests to extend their Miami cruise with the pre/post cruise package.

With rates ranging from just $209 - $249, the Pre/Post Cruise Package offers a deluxe guest room, two welcome cocktails, breakfast for two and transportation to the Port of Miami.

Extend the experience of blue water, sunny skies and gorgeous sights at this Port of Miami area hotel with Marriott's Port of Miami Vacation Package for stays from now through December 31, 2010.

This special package is ideal for relaxing and unwinding at a convenient Port of Miami hotel and can be booked by calling 1-800-228-9290 or visiting www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miabb-miami-marriott-biscayne-bay and using code TRS.

The Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay hotel is located just minutes from the Port of Miami and provides easy access to Miami International Airport and the surrounding area in the heart of downtown Miami.

The hotel offers 580 guest rooms and 21 suites and convenient access to South Beach, Bayside Marketplace, the Art Deco District and entertainment at the nearby Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts featuring opera, jazz, and symphony performances.

Deal Dates End  December 31, 2010

Holland America Annual View and Verandah Sale

Holland America Line has launched its annual View and Verandah Sale, which offers up to 45% savings on ocean-view and verandah staterooms for voyages in 2010.

In addition, cruisers will get reduced deposits, third and fourth guest savings and 25%  savings on certain hotels for pre- or post-cruise stays.

The View and Verandah Sale rates start at:
$499 for a 7-day Alaska cruise
$599 for 7-day Caribbean cruises
$1,199 for 12-day Europe and Panama Canal itineraries

Visit www.hollandamerica.com

MSC New Single Rates on Fall Cruises

Single travelers can experience the fall foliage of Canada/New England cruises on MSC Poesia for new, reduced rates.

Guests who book an interior, oceanview or balcony stateroom for one on MSC Cruises' 2010 Canada/New England cruises by August 31 are entitled to savings.

The six-night "Maple Leaves & Mansions" cruise from Quebec City, calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York, is not $718. This cruise departs October 23.

The seven-night "Scenic Splendors of Fall," departing from New York City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Canada, and Quebec City, Quebec; Canada, departs October 2. The new single rate is now $838.80.

The 10-night "Dazzling Fall Foliage" itinerary, which departs September 22 from New York City calls in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. The new rate is now $1,198.80.

The 14-night "Autumn Leaves and Lighthouses" cruise from Quebec City calls in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; New York, New York; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. This cruise departs October 9. Rates are now $1,618.80.

Visit www.msccruisesusa.com

Grand Ole Opry Country Classic Cruise on Royal Caribbean

Country music fans, your new ship has come in. And it's a big one.
 
Next year country music fans can set sail on the world's second largest cruise vessel, Royal Caribbean's 160,000-ton, 3,646-passenger Freedom of the Seas.

The seven-night voyage to the Eastern Caribbean kicks off on  Jan. 30 in Port Canaveral and include performances by Grand Ole Opry legends Charley Pride, Jim Ed Brown and Jeannie Seely.

Also performing during the voyage is newcomer Chris Young, nominated for the Top New Solo Vocalist award by the Academy of Country Music. Country singer Helen Cornelius will be a special guest.
 
The voyage will mark the Opry's 14th annual cruise, but it'll be first to take place on a Royal Caribbean ship. Last year the trip occurred on the Carnival Valor.

In addition to private performances, participants will be able to take part in classic country karaoke sessions with celebrity guests and an exclusive cocktail party.
 
The voyage includes calls in St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island destination in the Bahamas. Rates start at $1,158 per person, based on double occupancy.

More information on the voyage is available online at http://www.oprycruise.com