Matt

Can't speak for the catamaran, but we did a day at Margartiaville with my kids (5 and 1). It was fine, but nothing special. Definitely free to get in and the kids enjoyed the pool (although there is no shallow end). Food and drink are on the pricey side. I didn't love it, I didn't hate it there. Next time I think we will go back to trying an all-inclusive resort like Hilton Rose Hall.

That is really odd

According to the description, they are in South Beach

You know you've been cruising for a long time when . . . you thought Voyager class was a big ship

Yes, we had ours opened on Allure this past February. We had connecting Central Park balcony rooms and they were open even before we got onboard.

For the evening shows, that is still the case. There are also shows during the afternoon (most notably the ice skating shows) that will have different show times across different days.

... when you log into the Cruise Planner just to look around and get a "cruise fix" even if you aren't actually buying anything.

Here is a good primer on booking entertainment: http://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2016/07/23/first-time-cruisers-when-can-i-prebook-entertainment-dining-and-more-my-royal-caribbean It's only available on Oasis & Quantum class ships, and there are no physical tickets. It's all on your SeaPass account and the crew member just scans your SeaPass card and you are good to go.

From what I've read/heard, there are Coca-Cola Freestyle machines on Harmony of the Seas.

Based on the projected path of the storm, it should be long gone by the time your cruise begins on Saturday. Of course, if there is significant damage to the island that would impact the ability of the ship to dock and/or guests enjoy their stay, the ship may still get rerouted.

There is no reason not to book in advance. It just makes your life easier and costs nothing. If you do show up, as long as you give enough time in advance, you should be fine. But having tickets just makes things simpler.

It can happen, but not always the case. For obvious reasons, Customs and/or US Coast Guard does not give much advanced warning for inspections. I'd still arrive early. Better to wait at the port than at the hotel, right?

:lol: That is awesome! Hope you are having a great time

The rationale behind is it no event is ever guaranteed to occur. If they let folks know it will happen and it ends up being cancelled, you have disappointed guests. So it's about managing expectations.

I carry my kids' SeaPass cards for them. I tried once to let my oldest daughter (5 years old) carry hers and it was missing by the end of the day. When you buy the drink package for your daughter, or anyone, just charge it to your SeaPass card but let them know which guest they are buying it for. Should not be an issue. I agree with Billy, buy it in advance to save money and time onboard!

I have run into situations like this too. Really cannot imagine the zip line is not available for your cruise.

I think it's more of a 1-2 hour activity, but there is a beach so it very well could be a whole day activity. This may come down to how exciting you and your kids find it after a couple of planes.

Oasis was originally called Project Genesis. Quantum class was originally Project Sunshine :) There is a "tribute" to the Genesis name on Oasis: http://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2015/02/05/secret-behind-the-graffiti-oasis-of-the-seas-royal-promenade Yes, I'm a nerd.

Best thing you ate onboard?

How many ports could handle Oasis-class ships when they were first announced? Ports have shown they will move with the times to ensure they get their share of the cruise business.

2+ days removed from the storm, hopefully the impact will be significantly less on the waves. The Captain will also try to find the smoothest path possible. In general, they do a pretty good job at ensuring the cruise is enjoyable and safe for guests.

Nicole is expected to hit Bermuda on Thursday (according to National Hurricane Center). If your cruise leaves on Saturday, the storm will be almost in Canada. I can't predict or promise anything, but I think there is a pretty good chance you will go to Bermuda, provided the storm goes on its current course and there is not significant damage to the island.

Sleep? Totally overrated when there are new ships coming!

http://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2016/10/10/royal-caribbean-orders-new-class-of-cruise-ships-be-powered-liquefied-natural-gass Discuss!

Thanks for the info!