OVERVIEW:

To say that this cruise was atypical, is quite an understatement. Our cruise was scheduled to sail 11/19/2006 to Freeport, Grand Cayman, and Costa Maya, but because of a significant outbreak of a Noro type virus on the transatlantic crossing from Italy, the sailing was delayed for two days to allow time for disinfecting the ship. We were advised by CCL the week prior and they were quite generous in offering to refund our entire cruise cost should we decide to cancel; or we could opt to sail on Tuesday, 11/21, to Key West and Cozumel (4 days), and receive a 50% refund and a 50% discount on a future sailing. In addition, CCL offered to refund the additional cost of hotel expenses for the additional 2 days pre-cruise (up to $200 per person). We obviously chose the latter option.

We had previously reserved a room at the Amerisuites on 17th St for Saturday, but since they were fully booked for Sunday, we were able to secure a room at the Bahia Mar (right on the beach) for Sunday and Monday. All things considered, I would have preferred to have remained at the Amerisuites where the room included a microwave, fridge, and wetbar; not to mention free Wifi Internet access. The room at the Bahia Mar had none of these amenities and Wifi access cost an additional $10 per day; they even charged $10 per day to park your car. Read more