We started with a precruise trip on our own, to Lake Como, Italy. We stayed in Como which was wonderful. We recommend it.

PEOPLEMOVER FROM ST LUCIA RR STATION TO PORT (A DUMB IDEA)

From Como we took the trains to St Lucia Station in Venice. We prepared all we could and read all info here and on Google regarding the Peoplemover. Nothing prepared us for the onslaught of hustlers trying to carry our bags at the RR station. One exits the stationtowards the canal and turns right and travels along the canal, then across a bridge. Then one crosses traffic at a bus station and works one’s way towards the parking garage where the Peoplemover is located. We belabor the point because, with the four of us, and about 70 lbs of baggage each, the bridge with its STAIRS UP OVER THE TOP and DOWNTHE OTHER SIDE was difficult and ridiculous. The hustlers literally took the bags out of the wives’ hands trying to grab a tip. The “fee” was usually 5 euros per bag!! Our group was not a passive one and I started screaming NO at the hustlers and since I am 6’3” and in good shape, the dropped their ways after several grabs. It was just so irritating to start the cruise this way. We made it to the Peoplemover, and once we arrived at the station on the Portside, we found the walk from the Train Station to the Entry for Embarkation is about 3000 ft. OK, for us walking without luggage no problem, but after dragging the bags around trains etc, what a bummer!!! We were there at Prime Time ( 1 PM) and Celebrity had a shuttle bus that took us to the receiving point. Warning- if you get there early the bus might not have yet not started up and the experience would be brutal if it was hot. Don’t know if it was due to early season or the fact we were the only ship in Port, but next time we’ll take a taxi. Read more