HI Sandy, I love cruises that have many port days. They are my favorite days because everyone else is getting off the ship. From an over 70, solo traveler cruiser, I totally agree. 👍👍
I’ve stayed on board at some Caribbean ports of call, too. I like the idea of having the ship all to myself. No crowds at the buffet, no worries about finding a deck chair in a prime viewing spot (but not by the pool!!), no lines at the specialty coffee area to get a cappuccino, reading my book in peace. There’s lots of reasons to stay on board. Works for me!!
As a solo ,old and slightly crippled male I really like the ship. I find being on a ship such a difference, living on a man made floating sea house is so different and so seldom that I get as much time on it as I can.Even if I do get off ,its marvellous to come up to the side of the ship in a little boat and get back through the hull door into my Seahouse
Very nice video! I agree with all your reasons. At different stages of our lives, we value different things on a cruise. I think a good reason to stay in port, regardless of one's age and physical mobility, is if you have already visited that port once and it is not something particular interesting for you personally AND the local town is also driving distance away and not walkable. That's a good reason to take advantage of discounts as the spa or just enjoy the ship's amenities without the overcrowding. When we are younger, we obsess over seeing as much as we can in the least amount of time and we look back and really didn't enjoy our vacations. It was like needing to complete a long list of chores in the least amount of time and it was always stressful. As we get older, we tend to avoid stress and other strenuous physical activity and we automatically revert back to what a vacation is supposed to be, calm and relaxing.
@@KVDC2008 yes, I have run the gamut from partying in the Disco until dawn, not being able to get out of bed until dinner time, so much time wasted, to slowing down and enjoying everything and taking everything I can in. No more drinking lol
The most fun I had on my cruise was staying onboard while my friends went onshore. I had a quiet lunch, played games and had loads of fun with the entertainment crew. Best day ever.
last time we were in Jamaica about a year ago - picked up a local trolley tour - tour was very nice but we had a military type guard escort - We are also in our prime 70's years love staying on board - we have a weakness for forts and ruins - Great video
I love staying onboard, especially at certain ports that are the ones most cruises have to stop at. Like Nassau and Cozumel….only so many times I can go there
I totally agree. I'm 65, 66 on my next caribbean cruise in Nov. I've done the caribbean 4-5 times and I so love staying on the ship. I will look out my patio to decide how long the walk is to get to the port. I play in the casino, so any perks i get I will use on the days where I have already been to that port. don't get me wrong, some ports I get off every time, but i totally love having the ship to myself (sort of) when I have been there, done that! that's what it's all about....... Finding your peaceful travel. carry on, your way! Right!!!
i am 56. i live in a third world country on a beautiful beach. when i go on a cruise, like you, i am often happy to relax onboard without the vast hoards of people. thx for making this video.
I intend to stay on the ship on my cruise in November. I'll get plenty of walking in while on the ship. Looking over the rail on the upper deck will be enough for me.
I am going on a Mediterranean cruise in 2025. It’s a very port intensive itinerary, almost no sea days. One of the ports is “Rome”. That is, Civitavecchia, the port of Rome, which is about a 1 hour drive from the city of Rome. Now, I have visited Rome on several occasions, and it’s one of my favourite cities, but there is so much to see and do that a rushed excursion would not add anything to my experience. I prefer to book a hotel for 4-7 days and explore in depth at my leisure. So I’m going to stay on the ship that day and enjoy swimming in the pool and peace and quiet.
A lot of ports especially in the Caribbean one should stay on the ship. Older passengers might be targets for criminals. Have never experienced no lines. Some ports I like to go back to over and over again. Others I don't like to get off the ship. Not a beach person. Not a pool person either. Want to see the new port at Nassau. Crime has always been a problem at Jamaica. Some ports I like to visit. Others would prefer to stay on the ship.
You mentioned Jamaica, and I got off the ship to do a little exploring 3 years ago, first time there. In certain areas I got practically mobbed with people trying to get you to go somewhere, or do something for money, and everywhere there were pushy vendors selling overpriced trashy souvenirs. It may be ok to take excursions to see the sights, but like you, I'll just stay on board where things are more relaxed.
We agree 100%! We have already "been there & done that". We are leaving on a Princess cruise in a few days, along the Cal. coast. We plan to stay on the ship & enjoy all the amenities you mentioned.
#5 Sometimes the memory of the way a port was, is better than ruining it with all the changes today. I use to love going to Cozumel. I had a couple of favorite shops, and a favorite restaurant. I didn't mind the 'rustic' terrain. Then came the hurricane and now it isn't even recognizable and looks like every other port. Nassau used to have so much culture, there were places where you could just walk off the ship and dine in a restaurant with locals. Not any more! Then my favorite port Rotan, the first couple of times there it was an undeveloped port. You walked off the ship to a big vacant lot, and mixed with the locals. Today it starting to look just like every other Caribbean port. I'm going on a Caribbean cruise in a few months, and had already thought about not leaving the ship!
So true. It is also true with travel in general. I don't like to go back to places I have been before because they have usually changed and not for the better.
We’re 73/74 and if it’s a port that we’ve been to numerous time we stay on board. It’s wonderful, less noise. We went to RCL’s private island Coco Cay twice and that was enough.
Costa Maya or as the comedian on our cruise called it Close to Maya because they get you close 1/4 mile walk down the dock tourists trap definitely stay in the ship there
Hot tub all to myself, pool pretty much empty and quiet, a nice massage or watching a movie in a quiet theater and sitting quietly on top deck of ship with a cool breeze and sunny view with a nice drink, and hardly no lines on the buffet line, and riding on the water slides with long lines. I love staying on the ship when the ship is in port that I have seen numerous times.😍
Our very first cruise excursion was to Jamaica in 1985 on the Nieuw Amsterdam. Dunn River Falls was amazing and I'm glad we were able to experience it when we were younger. But crime was getting bad even back then, and we had a very scary encounter in one of the villages that we were encouraged to enter by the locals. Never again. It's so sad because it's so beautiful there.
Every port in every country has criminals hanging about it, it’s where the tourist are, just as in the cities,criminals are about all over the world. However if unpunished go away from the -Orts to towns in the Caribbean you find a different class of people just ordinary human beings living their ordinary lives, go to London it’s just as wild as anywhere in any city, I’ve traveled far and wide across the world and I find Europe and some places in US to be the most criminal places I’ve been to, Minneapolis Dallas San Antonio Brooklyn Philly and Seattle, whereas in the Caribbean I don’t hang around ports I go to see the real island places and the people are lovely friendly and we have had such good times and made friends for life, if in any part of the Caribbean find the Rastafarians they are kind welcoming res;ly knowledgeable people especially in Jamaica and St Thomas VI. They treat you very well, there food is fresh from the ground and they love to book for their bidiyord, you will learn do much you do not know about. I feel that is the issue with Americans, they do not know anything about the people only rumors and propaganda news stories. there are many European folk living in the Caribbean, as every trip the Germans and Americans some British are the worsts tourist ever, to meet as they think they are great and better than any others around them, yet they know nothing, not even the country they live in. My family we love history and historical places, but I guess US citizens the white folk just do not like to face the truth about their history of American and how they got there and why, it’s sad the elderly are the worst, thankfully the younger people from all about the globe are open minded and see the world for what it is, they don’t have blinkers on like the older generation, I’m 77 and Irish I know the facts and like to learn more and have my family learn more, no narrow mindedness in our family, thankfully. How can anyone travel and not get to see the country they travel to? It’s sad, stay at home in your gated community it in inside your picket fenced areas, the new generation will not be as you lot are.
My partner and I are in our 40s and make it a point to have at least one port day where we stay on the ship. We have yet to do a Caribbean cruise but we are not beach goers. Many times we have talked about going to the Caribbean and purposely just staying on the ship. No sand in our shoes or our bathingsuits. We are queit seeking travelers and the more peace we can find the happier we are. Glad that we are not the only ones that enjoy the serenity of a near empty ship.
I'll turn 70 by my next cruise and already considered staying on the ship while my kids and grandkids went off. I won't need to talk my husband into doing the same! He will be happy to. Thanks for your video, you talked me into it for sure.
They has been crime in Jamaica since forever. In September 1994 my husband and I were in Jamaica on a plantation tour on a cruise excursion. A few months later the tourist on that trip got robbed So yes, everywhere you have to be careful
I have been on 5 Alaska cruises. Some have been to similar ports. I stayed many times on the ship. Now that my mobility is worse, I would opt to cruise and stay on the ship and just have fun! Ships to Alaska do not have as many passengers as the Caribbean cruises. I love to shop and that would be why I would get off. I go to the shops several blocks away from the ship and have fun visiting with the locals.
Some very good advice, but as you said, you've been on over 50 cruises, so you seen the ports. Most people don't go on 50 cruises, so they want to see the ports.
Many ports aren’t worth seeing. The cruise lines have made these ports into rows of jewelry stores & cheap souvenirs. Royal Caribbean has priced their shore excursions ridiculously high…the islands have become dangerous & the islanders are ready to scam visitors at the first opportunity. I never get off in Nassau anymore. My debit card number was stolen after having lunch in their port. Jamaica is high crime & drug infested. I will take a snorkeling tour in St Thomas, but island like St Kitts & Antigua charge high prices for snorkeling tours, but they don’t have decent snorkel areas…too many Sandy beach’s & not enough rock or reef for the fish. Ships charge big rates for the excursions, but show you nothing.
I like staying on the ship too. We did two days in Hong Kong and for 1/2 a day I stayed on the ship. The buffet was very quiet. 😂. The only thing is that so many things close on the ship while in port-coffee shop, shops on ship, casino, bars. Not that drink orgamble much, but…
At Caribbean ports once you explore one they are all the same, I love having the ship to myself and I explore the ship that I’m spending my money on. I do go outside by the ship to take a picture at their welcome sign and I do take a picture of the ship with the beautiful background, then I rush back to dine or enjoy the cruise. The ship’s crew are so helpfully and accommodating at ports because there are less people on the ship needing their time.
Hi, we’re the same age, I feel the same way. I’m going on my 22nd cruise in 2 wks. I plan to retire next year so I can spend more time cruising. Happy cruising! Your new Sub.
I haven’t been on a cruise for awhile now but my feeling is once you’ve seen the port in the past, I don’t need to get off the ship. I do enjoy the emptiness of the ship when everyone else is gone.
I’ll only get off the ship if it docks at a proper port where you can walk down onto the wharf. I won’t do a tender port, the lines to get into those small tender boats! And then just wander around looking at endless stuff you don’t need and paying high prices for food and drinks, it’s all included back in the ship. Many ports are a long way from downtown too. I love being on the ship but will go on tours of major stops organised by the cruise line so they’ll wait for you if slightly delayed.
I have cruised all over the world but now I am having trouble walking so staying on board sounds like a great idea to me. Most ships are really lovely and I have been on many of them. So if you want to cruise but are having trouble walking try staying on board and have a great time.
I am suffering the physical ails of aging. I canceled a cruise for health issues. The cruise insurance then REJECTED my claim. The "person who makes that decision" told me "it doesn't cover preexisting conditions". Mind blowing. $2,800 lost. But, I protested and discovered you can educate someone because 10 days later I got 2 checks in the mail for refund. They kept my $500 deposit. I just canceled another cruise and will lose $900 deposited and transfer fees for a ship change we did. I can't walk steadily. Just got a brain scan. I love sailing. But high blood pressure and cholesterol history are "pre existing conditions" and whatever clogs up in my body probably wont be covered by insurance. I cant afford the risk. I love staying on the ship at ports I have already been to.
@@menow7851 sorry to hear about your declining health, but I am glad you got some of your money back. Many of the travel insurance policies that I have purchased have a clause that says it DOES cover pre-existing conditions if you buy it by a certain date. But you have to read the fine print! I hope that you will be able to cruise again at some point in the future. American cruise line riverboats are very accommodating to those with mobility issues.
I sometimes get off ship.have taken so many cruises like you .i think it depends on the person.for me..good to see the port at first.then often stay onboard.Totally depends on the situation.i would love a cruise to nowhere.
I recently took my first solo cruise to Alaska. I’m 75 and my husband passed three years ago. I decided to get off the ports and walked around the towns by myself. Short trips. Next time I’ll stay on board and relax. I’ve always enjoyed the trip, not the destinations. My daughter and I are going to Mexico in November and we’ll probably get off in most of the ports, for her. I’ve been there, done that. I agree with you. Not interested any more.
Well, be careful when you do, watch your step and watch some security videos about local scams down there, like the "bracelets" they put on your wrist and insist you pay for, while someone else behind you is probably riffling your bag. Like their very cute little kid as a distraction (why is that child looking in my bag?).
excursions are expensive. If you don't go "out" of the walkable area, you will be seeing only the stuff that they want the tourists to see, and spend an inflated amount of money on. I have a lot of issues with my feet, so all that walking is a problem if I don't know when i can sit down and rest them.
Great tips 👏! My favorite tip was the 1 about staying onbored during port days because I don't like crowds either 😍 I just subscribed I'm so glad I found your channel 🤗 For my mom's 78th birthday this December I had scheduled a cruise but had to cancel it recently due to her falling twice in 1 week 😢 I love cruising so I haven't given up on the idea of taking her & hopefully we can schedule another someday soon 👍
Check out your local YMCA/YWCA or local gym for the Silver Sneakers program. It is designed with gentle exercises for seniors to assist in balance and mobility. Mostly to prevent falls. Another option would be to work with a physical therapist on balance issues. But, you must directly ASK your healthcare provider for PT, esp for an elderly patient.
All Caribbean ports are the same. How many Diamonds International can you see? I don’t get off the ship anymore. This video is spot on. Why go Sr Frogs to get ripped off?
I agree with you. I will be going on my first cruise in April. I really am just looking forward to enjoying the ship. I will be 65 soon, and at this age slow and easy cruising is for me. I just subscribed to your channel.
Thank you Sandy I appreciate your knowledge, we’re going on an ocean liner cruise for the first time next year 2025 your video has been very helpful. Thank you. From Australia
I'm pushing 70 and have been traveling solo, which I love because I'm not shy! But I've been to most ports now, so I may get off the ship for a few minutes just to get some exercise. I'm doing the Boston (where I live) to Canada cruise next month, and it's great because it's basically a 45-75 crowd!!! 😁
A large percentage of people stay on the ship in Caribbean ports because they've become so dangerous. This is why private islands were created to avoid having to have armed guards for protection. If you paid to enjoy the ship why be bothered with the scams and beggars on shore.
I've been on one cruise and that was in May. I stayed on board to enjoy the ship itself the first day in port. We were docked in Bermuda for 2 days. The second day I wanted to visit the local pottery gallery and grab a bite to eat on the island before heading back home. I thoroughly enjoyed the royal treatment I received on board. I have to return because I didn't get the chance to do the majority of events or shop in any stores. Heck, I didn't even make it to the wine bar or the free pizza😅! There's so much more to see. Like you, I'm not a beach fan. I prefer swimming in fresh water. BTW, I'm 73 almost 😊.
@@Ivehadenuff I hear you- cruising has never been cheap, but was a good value when you consider hotel, entertainment and food is included. I live in FL and been cruising for 20 years - we used to be able to find 7 day cruises for $1,000 balcony room and even cheaper for inside cabins. But now it seems the cheapest 7 day cruises start at $3,000 so the price has tripled. And that’s just for a basic balcony room. So yes it is not cheap, and now they have a lot of extras and add ons that they cross sell that makes it even more expensive. Special dining restaurants, drink packages, WiFi, excursions, etc etc
I am 57 and use a cane and sometimes a walker. I will be going on my 4th cruise in February 2025. I have always gotten off the ship to shop in the port but never did any excursions. I plan to stay on the ship this next cruise because my mobility is getting worse. I was excited about going to Jamaica, possibly see a different culture, but I'm not even going to stress over staying on board now. Thank you, I enjoyed your video.
I've never been on a cruise, but if I do I'm more than leery of joining the crowds and all the drama I've heard about from scammers and theives. In the Bahamas, beautiful as it is, I would not go on excursions.
You might want to try a Mississippi Riverboat cruise for your first cruise. It is very relaxing, no crowds, it's in the USA and there are less than 180 passengers. ua-cam.com/video/SnriKzP5U1k/v-deo.html
Yeah, I like the idea of a River Cruise. I understand that there isn't a lot of silly unprofessional performances to watch, nor am I crazy about the excursion idea. It isn't that I wouldn't want to see other countries, I do, but it brings risks I'd rather avoid. Really, I would just wanna hang out on the boat, watch the water go by, and enjoy the fancy dinners, etc.
On a river cruise everyday all cruises got off to go on 1 of many excursions and we would all talk about what we had planned for the day. One morning my response was "I'm having a sea day".
I've been cruising since the mid-80s to the Caribbean, probably at least 30 times. As I have gotten older the sun seems hotter, the walk from the pier to the shore seems longer. Let's just say I will never be a pier runner because I have no desire to stay in let's say Cozumel Mexico for the 30th time for hours on end. 🥱
I love staying on board but they told me I had to leave because the cruise was over. 😁
That cracked me up😂😂😂😂😂😂
Me too!
Bummer, they always seem to do that.
That's so funny. Thanks for the smile.
LOL. Good one 🎉
Could not agree more as a solo senior
I’m in my mid 70’s and I love being on the ocean and on the ship. I prefer to stay on board.
The last 3 cruises I've been on, i stayed on board in port. I love having the ship to myself.
HI Sandy, I love cruises that have many port days. They are my favorite days because everyone else is getting off the ship. From an over 70, solo traveler cruiser, I totally agree. 👍👍
I’ve stayed on board at some Caribbean ports of call, too. I like the idea of having the ship all to myself. No crowds at the buffet, no worries about finding a deck chair in a prime viewing spot (but not by the pool!!), no lines at the specialty coffee area to get a cappuccino, reading my book in peace. There’s lots of reasons to stay on board. Works for me!!
I have been cruising abroad. Long flight, but it's so much more to see besides tge carribbean
@gwengarland4332 I know what you mean. I loved cruising the Mediterranean Sea, Alaska and Hawaii!
As a solo ,old and slightly crippled male I really like the ship. I find being on a ship such a difference, living on a man made floating sea house is so different and so seldom that I get as much time on it as I can.Even if I do get off ,its marvellous to come up to the side of the ship in a little boat and get back through the hull door into my Seahouse
Very nice video! I agree with all your reasons. At different stages of our lives, we value different things on a cruise. I think a good reason to stay in port, regardless of one's age and physical mobility, is if you have already visited that port once and it is not something particular interesting for you personally AND the local town is also driving distance away and not walkable. That's a good reason to take advantage of discounts as the spa or just enjoy the ship's amenities without the overcrowding. When we are younger, we obsess over seeing as much as we can in the least amount of time and we look back and really didn't enjoy our vacations. It was like needing to complete a long list of chores in the least amount of time and it was always stressful. As we get older, we tend to avoid stress and other strenuous physical activity and we automatically revert back to what a vacation is supposed to be, calm and relaxing.
So true! Thank you.
@@KVDC2008 yes, I have run the gamut from partying in the Disco until dawn, not being able to get out of bed until dinner time, so much time wasted, to slowing down and enjoying everything and taking everything I can in. No more drinking lol
Many Caribbean ports are nothing more than shopping centers-not the culture of the area, and leaving the port area is often dangerous.
The most fun I had on my cruise was staying onboard while my friends went onshore. I had a quiet lunch, played games and had loads of fun with the entertainment crew. Best day ever.
last time we were in Jamaica about a year ago - picked up a local trolley tour - tour was very nice but we had a military type guard escort - We are also in our prime 70's years love staying on board - we have a weakness for forts and ruins - Great video
Thank you!
I love staying onboard, especially at certain ports that are the ones most cruises have to stop at. Like Nassau and Cozumel….only so many times I can go there
I agree!
Totally agree
I thought I was the only one who liked staying on the ship. Because I also enjoy the alone time and pampering myself. 👍
You are definitely not the only one!
I totally agree. I'm 65, 66 on my next caribbean cruise in Nov. I've done the caribbean 4-5 times and I so love staying on the ship. I will look out my patio to decide how long the walk is to get to the port. I play in the casino, so any perks i get I will use on the days where I have already been to that port. don't get me wrong, some ports I get off every time, but i totally love having the ship to myself (sort of) when I have been there, done that! that's what it's all about....... Finding your peaceful travel. carry on, your way! Right!!!
Thank you. I agree!
i am 56. i live in a third world country on a beautiful beach. when i go on a cruise, like you, i am often happy to relax onboard without the vast hoards of people. thx for making this video.
You are very welcome!
I intend to stay on the ship on my cruise in November. I'll get plenty of walking in while on the ship. Looking over the rail on the upper deck will be enough for me.
@@markfarley671 Good for you!
Only two cruises. Both Caribbean. RC cruises. Never left the ships. Quiet times were great. I agree with you!
I am going on a Mediterranean cruise in 2025. It’s a very port intensive itinerary, almost no sea days. One of the ports is “Rome”. That is, Civitavecchia, the port of Rome, which is about a 1 hour drive from the city of Rome. Now, I have visited Rome on several occasions, and it’s one of my favourite cities, but there is so much to see and do that a rushed excursion would not add anything to my experience. I prefer to book a hotel for 4-7 days and explore in depth at my leisure. So I’m going to stay on the ship that day and enjoy swimming in the pool and peace and quiet.
Yes. Sounds heavenly!
Sounds great 👍🏾 especially if already been there before. Good advice 👍🏾
A lot of ports especially in the Caribbean one should stay on the ship. Older passengers might be targets for criminals. Have never experienced no lines. Some ports I like to go back to over and over again. Others I don't like to get off the ship. Not a beach person. Not a pool person either. Want to see the new port at Nassau. Crime has always been a problem at Jamaica. Some ports I like to visit. Others would prefer to stay on the ship.
Just discovered your channel. Love your ideas. Almost 70 solo cruiser.
Welcome! You look very stylish in your photo.
You mentioned Jamaica, and I got off the ship to do a little exploring 3 years ago, first time there. In certain areas I got practically mobbed with people trying to get you to go somewhere, or do something for money, and everywhere there were pushy vendors selling overpriced trashy souvenirs. It may be ok to take excursions to see the sights, but like you, I'll just stay on board where things are more relaxed.
Thank you for your great tips💖
You are very welcome!
We agree 100%! We have already "been there & done that". We are leaving on a Princess cruise in a few days, along the Cal. coast. We plan to stay on the ship & enjoy all the amenities you mentioned.
#5 Sometimes the memory of the way a port was, is better than ruining it with all the changes today. I use to love going to Cozumel. I had a couple of favorite shops, and a favorite restaurant. I didn't mind the 'rustic' terrain. Then came the hurricane and now it isn't even recognizable and looks like every other port. Nassau used to have so much culture, there were places where you could just walk off the ship and dine in a restaurant with locals. Not any more! Then my favorite port Rotan, the first couple of times there it was an undeveloped port. You walked off the ship to a big vacant lot, and mixed with the locals. Today it starting to look just like every other Caribbean port. I'm going on a Caribbean cruise in a few months, and had already thought about not leaving the ship!
So true. It is also true with travel in general. I don't like to go back to places I have been before because they have usually changed and not for the better.
We’re 73/74 and if it’s a port that we’ve been to numerous time we stay on board. It’s wonderful, less noise. We went to RCL’s private island Coco Cay twice and that was enough.
Costa Maya or as the comedian on our cruise called it Close to Maya because they get you close 1/4 mile walk down the dock tourists trap definitely stay in the ship there
Hot tub all to myself, pool pretty much empty and quiet, a nice massage or watching a movie in a quiet theater and sitting quietly on top deck of ship with a cool breeze and sunny view with a nice drink, and hardly no lines on the buffet line, and riding on the water slides with long lines. I love staying on the ship when the ship is in port that I have seen numerous times.😍
Me too!
Our very first cruise excursion was to Jamaica in 1985 on the Nieuw Amsterdam. Dunn River Falls was amazing and I'm glad we were able to experience it when we were younger. But crime was getting bad even back then, and we had a very scary encounter in one of the villages that we were encouraged to enter by the locals. Never again. It's so sad because it's so beautiful there.
I didn't realize there was so much crime even back then.
Every port in every country has criminals hanging about it, it’s where the tourist are, just as in the cities,criminals are about all over the world. However if unpunished go away from the -Orts to towns in the Caribbean you find a different class of people just ordinary human beings living their ordinary lives, go to London it’s just as wild as anywhere in any city, I’ve traveled far and wide across the world and I find Europe and some places in US to be the most criminal places I’ve been to, Minneapolis Dallas San Antonio Brooklyn Philly and Seattle, whereas in the Caribbean I don’t hang around ports I go to see the real island places and the people are lovely friendly and we have had such good times and made friends for life, if in any part of the Caribbean find the Rastafarians they are kind welcoming res;ly knowledgeable people especially in Jamaica and St Thomas VI. They treat you very well, there food is fresh from the ground and they love to book for their bidiyord, you will learn do much you do not know about. I feel that is the issue with Americans, they do not know anything about the people only rumors and propaganda news stories. there are many European folk living in the Caribbean, as every trip the Germans and Americans some British are the worsts tourist ever, to meet as they think they are great and better than any others around them, yet they know nothing, not even the country they live in. My family we love history and historical places, but I guess US citizens the white folk just do not like to face the truth about their history of American and how they got there and why, it’s sad the elderly are the worst, thankfully the younger people from all about the globe are open minded and see the world for what it is, they don’t have blinkers on like the older generation, I’m 77 and Irish I know the facts and like to learn more and have my family learn more, no narrow mindedness in our family, thankfully. How can anyone travel and not get to see the country they travel to? It’s sad, stay at home in your gated community it in inside your picket fenced areas, the new generation will not be as you lot are.
That’s good to know if I go on a cruise again. I never thought of staying on the ship as an option!
My partner and I are in our 40s and make it a point to have at least one port day where we stay on the ship. We have yet to do a Caribbean cruise but we are not beach goers. Many times we have talked about going to the Caribbean and purposely just staying on the ship. No sand in our shoes or our bathingsuits. We are queit seeking travelers and the more peace we can find the happier we are. Glad that we are not the only ones that enjoy the serenity of a near empty ship.
I'll turn 70 by my next cruise and already considered staying on the ship while my kids and grandkids went off. I won't need to talk my husband into doing the same! He will be happy to. Thanks for your video, you talked me into it for sure.
Have a wonderful cruise!
They has been crime in Jamaica since forever. In September 1994 my husband and I were in Jamaica on a plantation tour on a cruise excursion. A few months later the tourist on that trip got robbed So yes, everywhere you have to be careful
I didn't realize it had been going on that long.
I LOVE staying on the ship!!!!
I have been on 5 Alaska cruises. Some have been to similar ports. I stayed many times on the ship. Now that my mobility is worse, I would opt to cruise and stay on the ship and just have fun! Ships to Alaska do not have as many passengers as the Caribbean cruises. I love to shop and that would be why I would get off. I go to the shops several blocks away from the ship and have fun visiting with the locals.
Sounds like fun. Thanks!
Some very good advice, but as you said, you've been on over 50 cruises, so you seen the ports. Most people don't go on 50 cruises, so they want to see the ports.
Many ports aren’t worth seeing. The cruise lines have made these ports into rows of jewelry stores & cheap souvenirs. Royal Caribbean has priced their shore excursions ridiculously high…the islands have become dangerous & the islanders are ready to scam visitors at the first opportunity. I never get off in Nassau anymore. My debit card number was stolen after having lunch in their port. Jamaica is high crime & drug infested. I will take a snorkeling tour in St Thomas, but island like St Kitts & Antigua charge high prices for snorkeling tours, but they don’t have decent snorkel areas…too many Sandy beach’s & not enough rock or reef for the fish. Ships charge big rates for the excursions, but show you nothing.
I like staying on the ship too. We did two days in Hong Kong and for 1/2 a day I stayed on the ship. The buffet was very quiet. 😂. The only thing is that so many things close on the ship while in port-coffee shop, shops on ship, casino, bars. Not that drink orgamble much, but…
Yes. It is too bad the shops are closed, but of course, the locals want us to shop in their stores.
I couldn't agree with you more. The best part of the cruise is when everybody gets off for the day!
At Caribbean ports once you explore one they are all the same, I love having the ship to myself and I explore the ship that I’m spending my money on. I do go outside by the ship to take a picture at their welcome sign and I do take a picture of the ship with the beautiful background, then I rush back to dine or enjoy the cruise. The ship’s crew are so helpfully and accommodating at ports because there are less people on the ship needing their time.
Totally agree!
Hi, we’re the same age, I feel the same way. I’m going on my 22nd cruise in 2 wks. I plan to retire next year so I can spend more time cruising. Happy cruising! Your new Sub.
Sounds great!
The first time i went to costa maya i didnt like it.stayed in port twice.the next time i took a taxi into town i loved it .had so much fun.
I haven’t been on a cruise for awhile now but my feeling is once you’ve seen the port in the past, I don’t need to get off the ship. I do enjoy the emptiness of the ship when everyone else is gone.
I love staying onboard on port days, especially if I have already visited that port before.
I’ll only get off the ship if it docks at a proper port where you can walk down onto the wharf. I won’t do a tender port, the lines to get into those small tender boats! And then just wander around looking at endless stuff you don’t need and paying high prices for food and drinks, it’s all included back in the ship. Many ports are a long way from downtown too. I love being on the ship but will go on tours of major stops organised by the cruise line so they’ll wait for you if slightly delayed.
I have cruised all over the world but now I am having trouble walking so staying on board sounds like a great idea to me. Most ships are really lovely and I have been on many of them. So if you want to cruise but are having trouble walking try staying on board and have a great time.
Absolutely!
I am suffering the physical ails of aging. I canceled a cruise for health issues. The cruise insurance then REJECTED my claim. The "person who makes that decision" told me "it doesn't cover preexisting conditions". Mind blowing. $2,800 lost. But, I protested and discovered you can educate someone because 10 days later I got 2 checks in the mail for refund. They kept my $500 deposit. I just canceled another cruise and will lose $900 deposited and transfer fees for a ship change we did. I can't walk steadily. Just got a brain scan. I love sailing. But high blood pressure and cholesterol history are "pre existing conditions" and whatever clogs up in my body probably wont be covered by insurance. I cant afford the risk. I love staying on the ship at ports I have already been to.
@@menow7851 sorry to hear about your declining health, but I am glad you got some of your money back. Many of the travel insurance policies that I have purchased have a clause that says it DOES cover pre-existing conditions if you buy it by a certain date. But you have to read the fine print! I hope that you will be able to cruise again at some point in the future. American cruise line riverboats are very accommodating to those with mobility issues.
I always stay on board. I was on for 3 weeks and never got off. I do travel solo. Leaving on November 9 on Serenity.
Wow! You are amazing.
I stay on Board for the last 30 cruises. No Sickness and no chance of falling and getting hurt
I sometimes get off ship.have taken so many cruises like you .i think it depends on the person.for me..good to see the port at first.then often stay onboard.Totally depends on the situation.i would love a cruise to nowhere.
I recently took my first solo cruise to Alaska. I’m 75 and my husband passed three years ago. I decided to get off the ports and walked around the towns by myself. Short trips. Next time I’ll stay on board and relax. I’ve always enjoyed the trip, not the destinations. My daughter and I are going to Mexico in November and we’ll probably get off in most of the ports, for her. I’ve been there, done that. I agree with you. Not interested any more.
Well, be careful when you do, watch your step and watch some security videos about local scams down there, like the "bracelets" they put on your wrist and insist you pay for, while someone else behind you is probably riffling your bag. Like their very cute little kid as a distraction (why is that child looking in my bag?).
Great tips! Thank you for sharing! New subscriber.
Lovely blue blouse in dining room picture
Thank you 😊
Great presentation.
Thank you!
excursions are expensive. If you don't go "out" of the walkable area, you will be seeing only the stuff that they want the tourists to see, and spend an inflated amount of money on. I have a lot of issues with my feet, so all that walking is a problem if I don't know when i can sit down and rest them.
I know what you mean. I have issues with my legs.
Nah thanks!! You collect memories when you go and see around!
I am with you. Staying on the ship is so much more relaxing
45 cruises here, I rarely get off the ship when doing a Caribbean Cruise. Love the M/T ship.
M/T ship?
@@SandyOver70 M/T= empty
I agree with you.
Great tips 👏! My favorite tip was the 1 about staying onbored during port days because I don't like crowds either 😍 I just subscribed I'm so glad I found your channel 🤗 For my mom's 78th birthday this December I had scheduled a cruise but had to cancel it recently due to her falling twice in 1 week 😢 I love cruising so I haven't given up on the idea of taking her & hopefully we can schedule another someday soon 👍
Check out your local YMCA/YWCA or local gym for the Silver Sneakers program. It is designed with gentle exercises for seniors to assist in balance and mobility. Mostly to prevent falls. Another option would be to work with a physical therapist on balance issues. But, you must directly ASK your healthcare provider for PT, esp for an elderly patient.
I hope you get to take your mother on that cruise. I am glad that you found my tips helpful!
We stay on the ship many times too!
All Caribbean ports are the same. How many Diamonds International can you see? I don’t get off the ship anymore. This video is spot on. Why go Sr Frogs to get ripped off?
I agree with you. I will be going on my first cruise in April. I really am just looking forward to enjoying the ship. I will be 65 soon, and at this age slow and easy cruising is for me. I just subscribed to your channel.
Welcome! I like slow and easy too.
Got off the ship port in Nassau what a sh** hole. Going on my next cruise in December and Nassau is one of the ports gonna stay on a ship this time.
I regret telling people to stay 9n ship in costa maya when it was that i didnt take a taxi and find a different Costa Maya.
I’m with you👍
Thank you Sandy I appreciate your knowledge, we’re going on an ocean liner cruise for the first time next year 2025 your video has been very helpful.
Thank you. From Australia
Glad it was helpful! Have a wonderful cruise!
I'm pushing 70 and have been traveling solo, which I love because I'm not shy! But I've been to most ports now, so I may get off the ship for a few minutes just to get some exercise. I'm doing the Boston (where I live) to Canada cruise next month, and it's great because it's basically a 45-75 crowd!!! 😁
im not 70 but sometimes if the ship is going to Nassau, i stay on the ship for the hot tub
Smart. They are seldom available.
totally agree .
A large percentage of people stay on the ship in Caribbean ports because they've become so dangerous. This is why private islands were created to avoid having to have armed guards for protection. If you paid to enjoy the ship why be bothered with the scams and beggars on shore.
I've been on one cruise and that was in May. I stayed on board to enjoy the ship itself the first day in port. We were docked in Bermuda for 2 days. The second day I wanted to visit the local pottery gallery and grab a bite to eat on the island before heading back home. I thoroughly enjoyed the royal treatment I received on board. I have to return because I didn't get the chance to do the majority of events or shop in any stores. Heck, I didn't even make it to the wine bar or the free pizza😅! There's so much more to see. Like you, I'm not a beach fan. I prefer swimming in fresh water. BTW, I'm 73 almost 😊.
I don't do Caribbean cruises, but the ports there are less interesting than in other areas.
I agree.
How do people afford all these cruises? I’m not in your income bracket.
@@Ivehadenuff I hear you- cruising has never been cheap, but was a good value when you consider hotel, entertainment and food is included. I live in FL and been cruising for 20 years - we used to be able to find 7 day cruises for $1,000 balcony room and even cheaper for inside cabins. But now it seems the cheapest 7 day cruises start at $3,000 so the price has tripled. And that’s just for a basic balcony room. So yes it is not cheap, and now they have a lot of extras and add ons that they cross sell that makes it even more expensive. Special dining restaurants, drink packages, WiFi, excursions, etc etc
Do you like celebrity or royal? Which line is your favorite?
At age 76, I like Celebrity better.
I am 57 and use a cane and sometimes a walker. I will be going on my 4th cruise in February 2025. I have always gotten off the ship to shop in the port but never did any excursions. I plan to stay on the ship this next cruise because my mobility is getting worse. I was excited about going to Jamaica, possibly see a different culture, but I'm not even going to stress over staying on board now. Thank you, I enjoyed your video.
I am so glad you enjoyed my video!
Thank you for sharing this perspective 😀
You are so welcome!
I stay on the ship, because I am afraid someone will take my cabin when I'm on shore.
Excursions: you sit and wait over an hour in the auditorium to start the excursions. It seems they never have their act together.
So true. Especially when you have to take a tender.
I’ve never seen a ship as deserted as your pictures even on port days.
The photos are not from one ship but a variety of ships.
this really only applies of you've been to that port before. Otherwise why bother cruising if you don't explore the different locations?
I've never been on a cruise, but if I do I'm more than leery of joining the crowds and all the drama I've heard about from scammers and theives. In the Bahamas, beautiful as it is, I would not go on excursions.
You might want to try a Mississippi Riverboat cruise for your first cruise. It is very relaxing, no crowds, it's in the USA and there are less than 180 passengers. ua-cam.com/video/SnriKzP5U1k/v-deo.html
Yeah, I like the idea of a River Cruise. I understand that there isn't a lot of silly unprofessional performances to watch, nor am I crazy about the excursion idea. It isn't that I wouldn't want to see other countries, I do, but it brings risks I'd rather avoid. Really, I would just wanna hang out on the boat, watch the water go by, and enjoy the fancy dinners, etc.
Bloody floating prisons. Not for me!
Oh come on- pay thousands to go on a cruise somewhere and stay on the ship. No way. I just don’t go to the Caribbean any more.
It looks pretty lonely to me.
It all depends on what you like.
New viewer and LOVED this - I am in full agreement of staying on the ship! Well shared Sandy!👌🏻 @SandyOver70
Thank you and welcome!
I’d definitely be staying on the ship. You go into these ports it’s a scam and have to be watching your back constantly
On a river cruise everyday all cruises got off to go on 1 of many excursions and we would all talk about what we had planned for the day. One morning my response was "I'm having a sea day".
No man sorry I'm not gonna join you sorry I am too busy doing something else
I've been cruising since the mid-80s to the Caribbean, probably at least 30 times. As I have gotten older the sun seems hotter, the walk from the pier to the shore seems longer. Let's just say I will never be a pier runner because I have no desire to stay in let's say Cozumel Mexico for the 30th time for hours on end. 🥱