HAL Eurodam 1/26/13 to 2/2/13

The Ship - generally very nice. There were some visible carpet stains in the elevator lobby on 6, our deck. We had booked a VF guarantee at a great price. HAL assigned us to 6166, a VA cabin on the rear of the ship, an incredible upgrade. The crew was very good, particularly considering that many were down with GI illness. A few passengers were also affected, but not many, as far as I could tell. Pinnacle Grill was excellent, as usual. Ate lunch one day in the Tamarind, which was also great. We used open seating for the dining room. Service was hit or miss, depending on where you sat. Will probably go back to fixed dining on next cruise. The on board entertainment was good. Singers and dancers put on good production shows appealing to almost everyone. The magician, Jeff Peterson, and comedian, Julie Barr, were both good. Particularly good was Michael Sara in the piano bar.

Grand Turk - took a tour with Island Trams, a privately owned company by two brothers, who have lived on the island all of their lives. Very well done.. Takes in the entire island all the way to the lighthouse, stopping in Cockburn Town on the way out. Great 90 minute tour for $24 per person in a group of 4 or $29 if fewer. Tours leave at 10 and 11:30. Either would get you back to the ship in plenty of time. To get to the start point, walk through Margaritaville, up the beach for about 100 yards, and you will see the tram sitting there. After the tour, we had a cheeseburger in paradise at Margaritaville. The local beer is excellent. Read more