Let me begin be saying that I am not using the VIFP card but started cruising with Carnival in the 80's onboard the Mardi Gras out of Boston. Our 4pm departure took place at 7:30pm. No problem. We were excited for a 14 night "Journey" cruise.

Dinner the first night and all but 3 of the 14 nights was at an unclothed table. No spoons at our settings and no butter knives available. A carafe of ice water was on the table for us to help ourselves to and every time we took a drink the condensation dripped onto our laps.

Our shopping "expert" gave us all very good tips on what to buy in St. Martin but forget to mention that not one shop would be open because of a National Holiday. Read more