Gears

SO if tests don't work, then why let people on the  ship...because masks and social distancing works? If so, then why bother with the cost and time of tests that apparently don't work.....and if masks/social distancing work, then anybody should be allowed on the ship sick or not based on that logic.
If this is the case moving forward, then vaccines wont mean a damn thing...masks and social distancing and faulty tests will be the norm...good luck cruising with that kinda system in place.
 
They had to do all this for a country that has ONE case?.....how in any world would anyone think that this going to work somewhere with millions of cases.
 
I hope everyone here is wrong, but if you are all so sure and confident of this, I fear for the long term viability of the cruise industry.

Water package for 50% off.
Other than that...
 

Water package for 50% off.
Other than that...
 

Water package for 50% off.
Other than that...
 

Water package for 50% off.
Other than that...
 

Water package for 50% off.
Other than that...
 

Water package for 50% off.
Other than that...
 

Many are stuck, yes. Some choosing not to go and those who would usually drive (with vehicle, belongings, etc.) can't cross.
There are stories of people who have a summer place/cottage here that are not winterized. They are having challenges finding alternative accommodations for the winter.

You came to the right place. You're going to need a bigger inbox...

I see you are a Moderator here.  Can you put in a good word on my behalf?  ?
In before the lock...

It's one thing for the CDC to ban ships sailing longer itineraries due to public health concerns.  It's another matter altogether for the CDC to become involved with how cruise lines market cruises.
Someone needs to challenge this in court.  It's a government overreach and potentially violates freedom of speech.  "If you talk about cruises longer than 7 days we are going to shut you down".  
#DefundTheCDC. ? 
 

We are also early diners and relatively light eaters.  We always purchase the UDP.  Unless 5:30 - 6:00 is too late for you (most specialty restaurants begin serving at 5:30 or 6:00), the UDP will work fine.  My only concern for you would be the possibility that the repetitiveness of the menus at the somewhat limited choice of specialty restaurants on Radiance could be an issue on a 9 night itin.
The nice thing about the UDP is that it includes both dinners and lunches whenever the specialties are open for lunch (usually on sea days).  Also, realizing that on an Alaska itin you are often off the ship for lunchtime, it’s just a matter of what is most convenient for you.
Here’s what I would recommend. If they are offering a 5 night dining plan, I recommend that.  That would give you plenty of opportunities to utilize the specialties but also give you the flexibility to make alternate arrangements for some nights.  Just remember that only the UDP offers the option of complementary lunches. Between the Main Dining Room, the Windjammer and other options around the ship, you will not go hungry on nights that you do not have specialty reservations.
If they are only offering a 3 night dining package, I would get the UDP.  It’s very nice to be able to board the ship and go to Chops for lunch on boarding day.  I will note, however, that with the COVID restrictions (whatever they may turn out to be), lunch on boarding day at Chops may no longer be an option.  ??
Enjoy your first cruise !  You’ve picked a wonderful way to start out !

Depending on which ship you're going on, I would say two cruises. On many ships the Junior Suites are just a small bit larger than the balconies, and many of the newer ships (Oasis and Quantum class) have huge balcony cabins. Unless you want a specific benefit of the Jr. Suite, such as the extra points or the bathtub, I say go two cruises!

The public school teacher I live with has had her normal breaks all up ended.  There is no fall break in 2020 as it's already been eliminated.  Instead they are using the week of Thanksgiving as their break.  Spring break is thought to be on the books but the actual week may change at any time depending how this plays out.  We have a cruise booked over the summer break but there is no confidence the summer break will remain a break as they scramble to figure out how to educate as a result of the pandemic.  Remote learning does not work well but it's the only option right now.  Students are not learning and the effect on our society will cause many school boards to look at the calendar with fresh eyes once classes move back into the classroom.  Work loads are increasing for teachers but pay is not AND they have to supply their own masks and PPE when classrooms do reopen.
Some of my booked cruises with family may turn into solo cruises due to unexpected scheduling changes.  Strange times indeed. 

Thanks for sharing!
Maybe you could go back and sign up as crew?? ??

Thanks for sharing!
Maybe you could go back and sign up as crew?? ??

Thanks for sharing!
Maybe you could go back and sign up as crew?? ??

@WAAAYTOOO does have time now, but I doubt they will give her a suite.?

Thanks for sharing!
Maybe you could go back and sign up as crew?? ??

So I was frustrated that you could not read the sign so I snuck back over there to take a couple more pix.