cruise ship turnaround day documentary

Turnaround Day: Watch Behind the Scenes Of The Ultimate Pit Stop

In under 10 hours, royal caribbean’s crew prepares the ships for new guests..

With so many things to do and see on board, a day spent at sea can be one of the most memorable.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

In the cruise industry, turnaround days—when our guests from one journey disembark and new ones board—are a race against the clock for the ship’s crew. They have mere hours to fully prepare the ship for an entire new batch of guests—as well as stock up for the next itinerary.

On board Oasis of the Seas , one of the world’s largest cruise ships, guests don’t have to worry about any of it—the frenzy and excitement all takes place behind the scenes. During these pit stops, which happen every seven days, Royal Caribbean staff work to store food, clean every guest room, and further prepare every inch of the ship for its next wave of nearly 6,000 guests—all in 10 hours. Curious how it’s done? Check out the video below:

More than 2,100 crew members start turnaround day at 6:30 a.m., before current guests have even started disembarking, by loading enough food on the ship to feed a small city. Chefs personally inspect all of the herbs, fresh fruits and vegetables, specially sourced meats, and other food items to ensure the best quality for our guests.

The ships are stocked with everything that the crew and guests will need for the duration of the cruise—like more than 10,000 rolls of toilet tissue, 1,000 new light bulbs, almost 2,000 pounds of coffee and everything in between. It wouldn’t be possible without equal parts precision and dedication, but Royal Caribbean does it regularly across all 24 ships in our fleet  and soon our 25th,  Symphony of the Seas .

Related Articles

Inside Look: The Next-Level Adventures Coming to Navigator of the Seas

Jamie Oliver Reveals How He Makes Pasta Taste Just As Good At Sea

Inside Look at Odyssey of the Seas

Dive into Thrills—on and off the Ship—in Alaska

Turnaround Day, The Ultimate Pit Stop with Royal Caribbean

Download video, related videos.

June 2023 – Behind Icon of the Seas  is the heart and soul of every Royal Caribbean vacation: the dedicated crew. In “Making an Icon: Creating the Crew’s Neighborhood,” get the first look at the new home away from home designed for the 2,350 crew members who will bring the world’s best vacation to life. The experts, captain and crew walk through how they started with a blank slate and created the evolution of their public spaces and rooms with the help of the crew themselves. From the cruise line’s first room patent to more ways to get together, kick back and celebrate in dedicated spaces across four decks, the neighborhood sets a new standard of home and community for Royal Caribbean’s world-class crew. 

June 2023 – Introducing the ultimate 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaway, Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas . The new vacation is the first game-changing Oasis Class ship to debut with short getaways, setting the stage to make more memories in one short trip than ever before. Groups of friends and families can celebrate with unmatched weekend energy across all-new and returning experiences, more than 40 ways to dine and drink, more pools than the days to count, thrills and ways to chill, and more of all the above at Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas – on every cruise. Utopia debuts July 2024 from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, and will set sail every Friday and Monday year-round.

Royal Caribbean’s Making an Icon: Creating Next-Level Accommodations  

• Rent or buy
• Categories Categories
• Getting Started

The Secret Life of the Cruise

Customers also watched.

189 global ratings

How are ratings calculated? Toggle Expand Toggle Expand

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise news
• Cruise Industry

VIDEO: Allure of the Seas Turnaround Day

Watch the following video describing the incredible process of what it takes to get Royal Caribbean 's Allure of the Seas , one of the biggest cruise ships in the world, ready for a weekly sailing on turnaround day.

Search for: Search Button

The 17 Best Documentaries About Cruise Ships

Aug 1, 2023 | Best Of , Business , Travel

From stories of daring rescues at sea to tales of luxury liners gone wrong, these thirteen documentaries offer an intimate look into the cruise industry – without ever leaving your sofa! So grab some popcorn and get ready for a cinematic voyage as we explore some of the best documentaries about cruise ships.

1. The Secret Life of the Cruise (2018)

2. The Cruise (2022)

3. All Hands On Deck (2019)

4. Superships (2007)

The Best Free Documentaries About Cruise Ships

1. cruise ship harmony of the seas – leisure fun on the high seas.

The Harmony Of The Seas is the epitome of luxury cruising experience. This 120,000 ton behemoth has space for more than 6,300 passengers to enjoy its longest slide at sea and two surf pools. Join us as we embark on a journey with this majestic cruise liner on its maiden voyage! Witness the leisure fun on the high seas that you can only find aboard one of the world’s largest ships.

2. Inside The Most EXPENSIVE Christmas Cruise

Discover the secrets of life on board one of the world’s most luxurious cruise ships, the Seven Seas Explorer, at Christmas . Get an inside look at how this floating six-star hotel celebrates the holidays and find out why it is considered to be so expensive! From decorations to activities, take a behind-the-scenes glimpse into life on board this amazing ship and learn what makes it so special during Christmas time.

3. Mega Food – The World’s Biggest Cruise Ship

Embark on a journey of discovery and learn about the world’s biggest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas. With 250 chefs creating over 100 tonnes of delicious meals every week, it is an impressive culinary operation that rivals any military exercise. Take a behind-the-scenes look at this mega food endeavor and get ready for a tasty adventure!

4. The Most Expensive Cruise Ship in The World

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel on the most luxurious cruise ships in the world? In this video, we take a look at some of the most expensive and extravagant vessels out there. From onboard activities and amenities to what kind of prices you can expect to pay for a week’s stay, get ready to explore some truly remarkable vessels that redefine luxury cruising!

5. Why It Costs $1 Million Per Day To Run One Of The World’s Biggest Cruise Ships

Have you ever wondered what it takes to run one of the world’s biggest cruise ships? From a staff of 2,400 people working around the clock to create 30,000 meals a day and manage all waste onboard – this is no small feat. In this video we dive below deck on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas and explore how an engine room, captain’s bridge and tiny kitchens work together to power this floating city. See what it costs $1 million per day to keep these ships sailing!

6. Engineering And Building An 80,000-Ton Cruise Ship : The Meraviglia Cruise Ship

Cruise ships offer vacationers a unique way to explore the world and experience some of life’s greatest luxuries. In this documentary, we take an in-depth look at the engineering and building process of one of the most impressive cruise ships ever built: The Meraviglia Cruise Ship. From design to construction, learn how 80,000 tons of steel become a floating paradise that transports thousands every year. This is a must watch for anyone who wants to know more about what it takes to build these magnificent vessels!

7. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 1

The tragic death of a bride on her honeymoon cruise shatters the joyous atmosphere of the ship. When investigators learn that there were no strong winds at the time, they launch a murder investigation to find out who is responsible for what happened. In this episode of “Cruise Ship Killers”, we get an in-depth look at the case and explore all possibilities to uncover the truth behind this tragedy.

8. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 2

Cruise ships can be a romantic getaway, but in this episode of Cruise Ship Killers, we explore the dark side of vacationing at sea. Join us as we dive into the mysterious story of a husband and wife from Olympia, Washington whose surprise cruise ended with one of them going overboard. Was it an act of revenge? Jealousy? Or something far worse? Find out in this thrilling installment!

9. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 3

Cruise ships are a popular way to travel, but they can also be dangerous. In this episode of Cruise Ship Killers, we follow the mysterious disappearance of a professor’s assistant on board one of the longest voyages. A diary found in her cabin provides clues as to what happened and who might have been involved. Join us as we investigate her mysterious disappearance and discover if anyone onboard knows what happened!

10. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 4

Cruise ships are one of the most popular vacation spots, but not all cruises end with happy memories. This documentary series takes a look into the mysterious disappearances that have occurred on luxury cruises. Featuring interviews with family members, investigators and experts, Cruise Ship Killers delves deep to uncover what happened to those who never returned home after enjoying their holiday at sea. Join us as we explore these chilling cases in this thought-provoking true crime series.

11. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 5

A retired teacher set out on a solo journey across the Great Lakes, only for her family to become concerned when she fails to check in. As they investigate further, they begin to suspect something sinister has happened. Join us as we explore this story of Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 5 and uncover what really happened!

12. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 6

When a German college student goes missing while working on a cruise ship in Alaska , the questions arise: did she decide to skip out on her duties or was there something more sinister that happened? Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 6 takes an in-depth look at this mysterious disappearance and examines all possibilities. Join us as we dive into the deep waters of Alaskan ports to uncover what really happened that fateful day.

13. Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 7

In this heart-wrenching and gripping documentary, a family of four embarks on the cruise of a lifetime. But when only three return home, they launch an investigation into what happened to their missing daughter – all signs pointing towards her being kidnapped. Follow them as they search for answers in Cruise Ship Killers – Season 1 : Episode 7!

Read On – Our Latest Top Documentaries Lists

The 7 best documentaries and videos about eartha kitt, the 8 best documentaries about joe cocker, the 5 best documentaries about loretta lynn, the 7 best documentaries about aerosmith, the 7 best documentaries about def leppard, the 15 best documentaries about mariah carey, the 7 best documentaries and videos about weird al yankovic, the 6 best documentaries about lisa marie presley, the 5 best documentaries about bobby brown, the 10 best documentaries about mary j blige.

Discover New Content

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

The Secret Life of the Cruise

A floating city on the sea, the MSC Seaside is one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. With privileged access to every part of the ship's operations, this film shows the army of people... Read all A floating city on the sea, the MSC Seaside is one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. With privileged access to every part of the ship's operations, this film shows the army of people and systems that keep this vessel functioning. A floating city on the sea, the MSC Seaside is one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. With privileged access to every part of the ship's operations, this film shows the army of people and systems that keep this vessel functioning.

• 1 User review

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

User reviews 1

• Dec 28, 2022
• How long is The Secret Life of the Cruise? Powered by Alexa
• January 1, 2018 (United States)
• United States
• Brinkworth Films
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 6 minutes

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed

For crew of 2,100-passenger cruise ship, frenetic ‘turnaround day’ in Seattle starts and ends the journey

It may be a leisurely 7-day vacation cruise for passengers, but for the staff it begins with a race to load 147,500 pounds of fresh produce, 35,000 eggs and more, while cleaning hundreds of rooms and properly delivering 8,000 pieces of luggage.

Share story

It’s 5:45 a.m., and Elliott Bay is quiet as the first glimpse of morning light greets the arrival of the Eurodam, the biggest cruise ship Holland America Line sails out of Seattle. It pulls into Smith Cove like a floating skyscraper, dwarfing the longshoremen who stand ready to tie it off to Pier 91.

Inside the 936-foot-long vessel, there’s a whirl of activity on the third of the ship’s 14 levels. Provisioning master Herman Hermawan and his team are cleaning the passageways and tidying bare storerooms in preparation to take on about  350,000 pounds of food, beverages and supplies.

The ship docks in Seattle each Saturday morning during the May-September cruise season for what the industry calls “turnaround day.”

For the more than 2,100 guests aboard, it’s the end of a seven-day journey that includes several stops in Alaska, a sail into Glacier Bay and a stop in Victoria, B.C.

But for Eurodam’s 856 crew members, it brings the busiest few hours of the week.

“For hotel staff, turnaround is a heck of a day,” Hermawan said.

The ship is scheduled to depart at 4 p.m. Eurodam’s hotel crew has four hours to clean and sanitize 1,052 staterooms, and less than nine hours to transfer more than 8,000 pieces of luggage and load some 350 pallets of provisions for another weeklong journey. Coming aboard will be 147,500 pounds of fresh produce, 35,000 eggs, 1,375 gallons of milk and 16,800 cans of beer and soda, just to name a few items.

At 7 a.m., a crew of longshoremen swings large containers dangling from dockside cranes toward two massive doors in the side of the ship, just above the waterline. Inside, more than 4,000 pieces of luggage await.

Housekeeping staff collected those bags from the ship’s hallways the night before and packed them into 63 large gray bins, each labeled with a color-coded tag corresponding to the guest’s assigned time to disembark.

Hermawan, 46, watches from an inside corridor as the longshoremen use pallet jacks on the ship to slide the bins into the empty containers hanging off the ship’s side.

Hermawan, from West Java in Indonesia, is a 25-year veteran of the cruise industry, beginning as an entry-level assistant and working his way up to provisioning master in 2012.

Like the rest of the hospitality crew, he works 10-hour shifts or longer, seven days a week, for his six-month contract. (As a foreign-flagged ship, the Eurodam is not subject to U.S. or Seattle labor regulations.) Other crew members work as long as nine months. There’s not enough time to visit Seattle on turnaround days, but he takes advantage of opportunities to shop in Juneau or get some fresh air in other port cities.

When his contract is over, Hermawan travels back to Indonesia to spend one or two months with his wife and two young sons before returning for another tour at sea.

In 45 minutes, the luggage has all been cleared, and forklifts begin scooping up pallets of supplies staged under a large white tent on the dock.

“I think we’re going to be OK,” Hermawan says as he watches the first few pallets of provisions being loaded. “It’s going to be fast today, I can feel it.”

He holds a radio in one hand to communicate with his crew and a cordless phone in the other to stay in contact with the rest of the ship. The phone rings consistently with calls from staff who are waiting for supplies to arrive. The sound of pallet jacks rolling over the ship’s studded metal floors is deafening, as Hermawan tirelessly paces the passageways, directing longshoremen with hand motions like airport workers guiding planes to their gates.

As he jogs down the corridor to help correctly position a pallet in one of the storerooms, his phone rings again. “Do you need it urgently?” Hermawan responds with a hint of frustration. “I am marshaling right now, I don’t have time for this.”

Doing ‘the dirty jobs’

Up on deck seven, executive assistant housekeeper Ruben Pereira walks  the quiet halls, overseeing the cleaning of  staterooms.

While the ship’s housekeeping staff is primarily from Indonesia and the Philippines, many supervisors, including Pereira, are from India.

The housekeeping staff divides into teams of three on turnaround day, each team responsible for 30 cabins. They begin cleaning at 7:30 a.m., as soon as the first guests disembark. Because Holland sends guests directly to their cabins when they board, all 1,052 rooms must be cleaned and sanitized before the first guests arrive at 11:30.

“We plan for it to take on average only 20 minutes per room because we have only four hours,” Pereira said.

As Pereira looks on, a lead steward and his assistant begin stripping the bed in a suite.

The dirty laundry is sorted into different colored bags — white for linens, brown for bathrobes and blue for towels — to make the wash go faster. More than 500 bags will eventually make their way to the laundry room to be cleaned later in the day.

The team then pulls a “stateroom pack,” containing all the supplies needed to restock the room, from a drawer under the bed, where it had been placed the previous evening.

A third member of the team hurries in and begins to clean the bathroom. “He only does the dirty jobs,” Pereira says,  both to expedite the cleaning process and to avoid any cross-contamination with the rest of the room.

Due to sanitation issues and so many people in such close quarters, cruise ships have become infamous for norovirus outbreaks that seem to erupt every year. Holland’s Zaandam experienced an outbreak in June , on a voyage from Seattle to Alaska, that sickened 73 people.

The trend is not encouraging. In 2017, cruise lines had the highest failure rate of sanitation inspections since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) started inspecting vessels in 1990.

The Eurodam, however, has scored 100 percent on its last 13 inspections, according to the CDC website.

Just as the lead steward finishes the suite by wiping down its surfaces with a cloth soaked in disinfectant, a dining-staff employee comes into the room to fill a bucket with ice to chill the Champagne bottle delivered earlier.

It’s 9:45, and the team must move quickly. They still have 17 rooms to go before the guests begin boarding in less than two hours.

Final preparations

By 11, provision pallets are backing up at the ship’s freight elevators.

Hermawan bounces back and forth, operating both lifts while continuing to guide longshoremen to the proper areas. Along the passageway, in nearby kitchens next to the storerooms, culinary staff are chopping fruit, baking bread and prepping for the day’s scheduled lunch service, the first meal for the ship’s new guests.

Cooks and dining staff, pushing trolleys for the restaurants upstairs, merge into the traffic of longshoremen and pallet jacks barreling through the corridor. The strain of turnaround day is beginning to show on Hermawan’s face as he juggles the phone, the radio and the traffic around him.

“I never go the gym, so this is my way of staying in shape,” he later jokes.

Business is booming

The pier is bustling with activity by noon, with ride shares, taxis and tour buses dropping off passengers eager to get aboard. Terminal 91 processes more than 10,000 travelers every Saturday during cruise season, and nearly 40,000 every week.

The Port of Seattle said it expects to have about 216 cruise-ship calls this season, with more than 1 million passengers flowing through the cruise terminals. The cruise industry provides more than 4,000 local jobs and contributes $501 million to the local economy, according to the Port’s 2017 economic-impact data.

“You talk to cabdrivers, hotels and restaurants in the area, and people light up when you mention the cruise season,” said port spokesman Peter McGraw.

Holland, which is headquartered in Seattle and has four ships that visit the city, said it works with nearly 700 Washington vendors and spends an average of $300,000 on provisions each turnaround day.

Passengers arrive

It’s 1 p.m., and thousands of people are flowing through Terminal 91, dropping their luggage with porters before making their way through security.

Retirees, families and couples of all ages make their way toward the Eurodam’s gangway, some stopping to pose in front of a green screen for photos that will later be superimposed on an image of a giant glacier.

The last provision pallet is loaded by 2 p.m. and the longshoremen work to finish with the luggage bins, filled with the bags of arriving guests.

Inside the ship, dozens of housekeeping staff in all-black uniforms pile the bags onto hand dollies for delivery to the proper staterooms.

The homestretch

By 3:15 p.m., everyone is onboard and accounted for, the last luggage bin is being loaded, and a series of high-pitch tones over the ship’s intercom indicate the start of a mandatory emergency drill. After that, guests can join in a sail-away party on the aft deck, featuring Northwest cheese, wine and beer.

But Hermawan is still busy in the lower decks, breaking down pallets and arranging provisions. As sailors close the loading doors, longshoremen prepare to release the ropes that secure the ship to Pier 91.

Eurodam pulls out five minutes ahead of schedule, with a series of loud horn blasts. As it ventures into Elliot Bay on its way to Juneau, it takes the hustle and bustle of turnaround day with it, and silence returns to Smith Cove until the next ship arrives.

• Rent or buy
• Categories Categories
• Getting Started

• Episode number
• Newest episodes
• Available to watch

How are ratings calculated? Toggle Expand Toggle Expand

• UK Modern Slavery Statement
• Sustainability
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell on Amazon Business
• Sell on Amazon Handmade
• Sell on Amazon Launchpad
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect and build your brand
• Associates Programme
• Fulfilment by Amazon
• Seller Fulfilled Prime
• Advertise Your Products
• Independently Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Make Money with Us
• Instalments by Barclays
• Amazon Platinum Mastercard
• Amazon Classic Mastercard
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Payment Methods Help
• Shop with Points
• Top Up Your Account
• Top Up Your Account in Store
• COVID-19 and Amazon
• Track Packages or View Orders
• Delivery Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Amazon Mobile App
• Customer Service
• Accessibility
• Conditions of Use & Sale
• Privacy Notice
• Cookies Notice
• Interest-Based Ads Notice

• Holland America Line

Turn around day

By jimmy2x , March 1, 2020 in Holland America Line

Recommended Posts

Looking to book a back to back cruise next Feb in the Caribbean out of Ft Lauderdale next winter. The question is how is the turnaround day handled. Do we have to get off?  Or are we more or less sequestered somewhere?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Quartzsite Cruiser

We just did a turnaround day in Ft. Lauderdale in January.  We had the option to get off the ship for the day, take a ship’s tour, or remain in the ship.  Those who  chose to spend the day off the ship, went through immigration in the port.  For those of us who decided to stay on the ship, we met in the showroom.  Once everyone else was off the ship, we were escorted off the ship for immigration inspection.  We saw the immigration officer who looked at our passports, and then we returned to the ship.

If you decide to explore Ft. Lauderdale on your own, you will need to get to take a taxi, Uber or Lyft into town.

11 minutes ago, Quartzsite Cruiser said: We had the option to get off the ship for the day, take a ship’s tour, or remain in the ship.

12 minutes ago, Quartzsite Cruiser said: Once everyone else was off the ship, we were escorted off the ship for immigration inspection.

In US ports, they must "zero out" the ship.  You didn't "remain on the ship".  You were escorted off.  Then you reboarded.

It is possible to remain on the ship.  We did a B2B on the Nieuw Amsterdam a few years ago.  There were quite a few people doing this.  We all had to go to the showroom.  Once everyone was there, the immigration people processed us there and then we were allowed to leave and do whatever we wanted.  

On another B2B we did have to actually get off the ship, be processed and then we could return to the ship.  

Our B2B cruises were both out of Fort Lauderdale.

sevenseasnomad

Depends on how many passengers are B2B.  On our most recent NS Christmas cruise, over 400 passengers opted for B2B.  If a lot of passengers take B2B as in our case, you may be asked to meet in the Show Room or other public space onboard at a certain time.  Ours was 10:00 a.m.  Up to that point, we ate a leisurely breakfast, sat in the Crow's Nest and read.  At 9:45, we showed up at the theater, where ship personnel (at the entrance) asked to see our passports and in-transit cards (which they collected).  About 30 people were already seated in the theater.  Again, personnel directed us where to sit; they wanted passengers to sit in one section with no saved seats, each person filling in the next seat.  At 10:15, they escorted us in two lines off the ship and into the customs area.  As we left the ship, we had to show our key cards, so Security could "zero" out the ship.  

Once in the customs area, which was completely empty, we stood in lines to go through the customs check, where we turned around, lined up, and were escorted back onto the ship prior to 10:30 a.m.  My son and I steered clear of cabin decks, knowing that the stewards were trying hard to prepare staterooms for the new passengers.  We sat by the pool and read.  Very relaxing.  

If you're on a B2B where few passengers are continuing the cruise, you may be asked to leave the ship at a certain time as occurred on one of our cruises where we were one of two couples who were staying on the ship for the next cruise.  We left the ship at 10:15 as instructed.  An immigration official met us at the bottom of the gangplank, checked our passports, and asked both couples to have a seat in a waiting area.  After a few minutes, a security officer told us we could board the ship again.

In both cases, the process was easy.  Everyone appeared to follow instructions.  You will receive a letter and in-transit cards for everyone in the stateroom.  Follow those instructions; you'll be fine.

You also have the option to leave the ship earlier to tour the port/go on an excursion.  The instructions for your particular turn-around day will explain what to do, so don't worry.  Enjoy that B2B.  It's a wonderful experience not having to rush off the ship on that turn-around day.

I really appreciate the information. Although I finally made 4* last year, have never done a B2B. It all sounds pretty painless 😀

SusieKIslandGirl

Not only fairly painless but it is a wonderful feeling that night before the first 1/2 ends to see all the suitcases in the hall and know you're not leaving. Of course at the end of the next segment you'll be the one leaving.

Krazy Kruizers

We have had it both ways.  It all depends on how many people are doing the back-to-back (Collectors Cruise).

Sometimes we had to wait over an hour in the terminal before we were allowed back on the ship.  The ship has to get down to a zero count before anyone can get back on or begin to embark.

On the last full day of the cruise you will get a letter explaining what to do.

cruiseaholic78

Don’t forget the smug feeling walking casually through to breakfast without wearing your holiday gear and watching all the rest with luggage who are going home.

On the Volendam at FLL after the 2019 Amazon cruise, those who were staying on the ship for the Christmas cruise had to disembark.  We elected to walk into town and shop and enjoy a nice lunch off the ship.

I am very appreciative of the information. Spent hours yesterday trying to book the B2B with a cabin I could be happy with. No success. Wound up booking the 10 day to the ABC’s which I haven’t done for years. 

1 hour ago, jimmy2x said: I am very appreciative of the information. Spent hours yesterday trying to book the B2B with a cabin I could be happy with. No success. Wound up booking the 10 day to the ABC’s which I haven’t done for years. 

Oh, no.  How sad you didn't get the cruise you wanted.  Couldn't you have waited until Monday to call a TA you trust or a PCC?  (Online travel agents are available 24/7, and many on these boards swear by them, but I've used one only once.)  Can you still cancel the cruise you've booked and call someone to help you with the B2B? 

Of course, if you're thrilled with the cruise you booked, ignore the previous question, but maybe in the future, understand that help is out there if you need it.  Have a marvelous time.  BTW, you'll love the ABC's, very different from many of the other Caribbean islands.  Aruba in particular is like being on another planet.  Its landscape is stark.  Go with a private tour company, especially for the 4x4 tour, for a more intimate, enjoyable experience.

I empathize with your experience on HAL's website.  For years, I've read threads where members discuss frustration with the site, and I've wondered what they were referring to because I've never had a problem.  Until this week.  I tried to make several payments on upcoming cruises, and the site refused to connect me.  Then, I wanted to book Flight Ease.  Again, it failed to recognize the round-trip status and would only provide me with quotes for a one-way fare.  After grinding my teeth, I finally gave up and called my PCC, which I probably should have done in the first place.  How much potential business does HAL loose because of their website?  

Cruise4food

9 hours ago, Btimmer said: We elected to walk into town and shop and enjoy a nice lunch off the ship.

Just want to ask about how easy (or difficult) the walk is through Port Everglades to the shops and restaurants. When riding the shuttle bus, the area seems to not be pedestrian friendly. I presume you went basically northward to the business row?

1 minute ago, Cruise4food said: Just want to ask about how easy (or difficult) the walk is through Port Everglades to the shops and restaurants. When riding the shuttle bus, the area seems to not be pedestrian friendly. I presume you went basically northward to the business row?

Walking at Port Everglades?  Are you in good physical health?  That's a fairly l-o-n-g walk, much of which has no sidewalk, if my memory is correct.  After you leave the port, that intersection is a busy one.  I don't recall seeing restaurants or shops at that cross-section.  The closest, I believe, is a mile or so.  If I'm mistaken, someone please say so.

We're doing a B2B for the holidays and I am not as curious about process as I am about the general facilities and mood onboard the ship during that day.  I am genuinely curious about how cruise ships operate, but I don't want to be in the way of the very busy crew.  I also want to be able to use facilities.  We are buying a thermal spa pass, but does that mean it is closed until later that evening because of cleaning and first day tours?  Is the pool available? 

3 hours ago, sevenseasnomad said: Oh, no.  How sad you didn't get the cruise you wanted.  Couldn't you have waited until Monday to call a TA you trust or a PCC?  (Online travel agents are available 24/7, and many on these boards swear by them, but I've used one only once.)  Can you still cancel the cruise you've booked and call someone to help you with the B2B?    Of course, if you're thrilled with the cruise you booked, ignore the previous question, but maybe in the future, understand that help is out there if you need it.  Have a marvelous time.  BTW, you'll love the ABC's, very different from many of the other Caribbean islands.  Aruba in particular is like being on another planet.  Its landscape is stark.  Go with a private tour company, especially for the 4x4 tour, for a more intimate, enjoyable experience.   I empathize with your experience on HAL's website.  For years, I've read threads where members discuss frustration with the site, and I've wondered what they were referring to because I've never had a problem.  Until this week.  I tried to make several payments on upcoming cruises, and the site refused to connect me.  Then, I wanted to book Flight Ease.  Again, it failed to recognize the round-trip status and would only provide me with quotes for a one-way fare.  After grinding my teeth, I finally gave up and called my PCC, which I probably should have done in the first place.  How much potential business does HAL loose because of their website?  

I did call HAL direct which is something I have only done rarely. Also spoke with a rep from the TA I have used for years. Both tried very hard to help to no avail.   

To be clear, the problem is more mine than theirs. Could I have booked the B to B?  The answer is yes. Unfortunately,  could not find a cabin that was acceptable. I freely admit to being very picky about location, so have no one to blame but myself.  I should have done it last month when on the Koningsdam. Live and learn.  In any case, since I haven’t been to the ABC islands in a long time, am look forward to it.   

6 hours ago, 1884Vic said: We're doing a B2B for the holidays and I am not as curious about process as I am about the general facilities and mood onboard the ship during that day.  I am genuinely curious about how cruise ships operate, but I don't want to be in the way of the very busy crew.  I also want to be able to use facilities.  We are buying a thermal spa pass, but does that mean it is closed until later that evening because of cleaning and first day tours?  Is the pool available? 

General mood is busy!  We enjoy the relaxed breakfast while other pax are rushing for flights etc.  We tell our room steward not to bother with our room until they have time and they seem to appreciate that.  Lido is busy as new cruisers arrive so we tend to stay on our veranda with burger/pizza for lunch.

Pool is open ok, but I know nothing about thermal spa.  

1 hour ago, VMax1700 said: General mood is busy!  We enjoy the relaxed breakfast while other pax are rushing for flights etc.  We tell our room steward not to bother with our room until they have time and they seem to appreciate that.  Lido is busy as new cruisers arrive so we tend to stay on our veranda with burger/pizza for lunch. Pool is open ok, but I know nothing about thermal spa.  

The thermal spa is not open.  The spa is available for "tours" for the embarking guests.

I have never ordered Room Service for embarkation day Lunch (if that is what VMax1700 is saying), but I have learned on CC that such is available.  I prefer the MDR Embarkation Day Lunch.  Going to Dive-in or the pizza area of the Lido and bring lunch to one's veranda is a good idea.

B2b cruises are great; it's the CBP hassles that are irritating.  

5 minutes ago, rkacruiser said:     I have never ordered Room Service for embarkation day Lunch (if that is what VMax1700 is saying), but I have learned on CC that such is available.  I prefer the MDR Embarkation Day Lunch.  Going to Dive-in or the pizza area of the Lido and bring lunch to one's veranda is a good idea.   B2b cruises are great; it's the CBP hassles that are irritating.  

Sorry I should have been clearer. Absolutely not room service, but Dive in burger and NY pizza.

Is room service even available during embarkation hours?

1 minute ago, VMax1700 said: Is room service even available during embarkation hours?

I have read that it is.  I have not tried to do so.  The staff is already under so much pressure to embark the new guests that I feel it's an intrusion on my part to request Room Service.

Having Room Service Breakfast available on the morning of disembarkation is a unique service of HAL that many other cruise lines do not allow.

Happily@Sea

I usually find that my veranda is wet on turnaround day - whether on a B2B or an embarking passenger. They do a wash-down to remove the salt that day and they have come past while I'm waiting for the zero count call.

Thanks all.  I am leaning towards doing something in FLL that day . Trying to stay out of the way doesn't sounds like a vacation day.  We know FLL well and don't mind fooling around for a few hours so there is less stress on the staff. 

11 hours ago, 1884Vic said: Thanks all.  I am leaning towards doing something in FLL that day . Trying to stay out of the way doesn't sounds like a vacation day.  We know FLL well and don't mind fooling around for a few hours so there is less stress on the staff.     

We went shopping one turnaround day in Fort Lauderdale and I bought another couple of bottles of wine.  Expecting to have to pay corkage (I had brought my allowance onboard on first cruise) I was pleasantly surprised to see that the 'wine desk' was no longer manned (personned!  🙄 ) and I walked on with my two bottles.  This was a collector cruise so only one booking number.  A true B2B would have 2 booking numbers (one for each cruise segment) and you should be able to bring a second wine allowance aboard.

RocketMan275

3 hours ago, VMax1700 said: We went shopping one turnaround day in Fort Lauderdale and I bought another couple of bottles of wine.  Expecting to have to pay corkage (I had brought my allowance onboard on first cruise) I was pleasantly surprised to see that the 'wine desk' was no longer manned (personned!  🙄 ) and I walked on with my two bottles.  This was a collector cruise so only one booking number.  A true B2B would have 2 booking numbers (one for each cruise segment) and you should be able to bring a second wine allowance aboard.

Just be prepared to assert  your rights to bring those bottles on board.  Once when the wine desk wasn't manned, the port personnel doing the luggage check insisted that I could not bring more than two bottles because the wine desk wan't manned.  Got a bit heated when they wanted me to abandon my wine. Finally a more knowledgeable person allowed me to proceed.

My one and only turnaround day was a miserable experience that I hope I don't have to repeat.  I was in Vancouver in May of 2019 and I had to change cabins.  Those in charge of passengers staying onboard were clueless, and the people working in the terminal even less so.  

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:21 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 03:17 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:00 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:41 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...