Cruiser questions

Newbie Joined: 28 Aug 2006 Posts: 3

I will be in a party of 4 adults that will be tendered into Grand Cayman in mid-September (barring any hurricane activity, of course)

It looks like there will be 3 ships the day we are in port.

We would like to visit Stingray City and originally looked at chartering a 1/2 day through a private charter that included the snorkel stop, stingray city, and sailing/fishing in the Mangroves. However, they were already booked.

From other forums, I have read excellent reviews for Capt. Marvin, Sotos, Captain Bryan, and Nativeway.

I've looked around here after registering to read the forums, so I already know (Sotos or Oh Boy) wink

Here are my concerns as a cruise ship passenger:

If I reserve my place with credit card, but pay with cash once I arrive, what are the cancellation policies? If I can see the week before we are scheduled to arrive that there are storms, etc. can I cancel without penalty?

At least one of our group is a non-snorkeler (she is blind, and although a good swimmer, it obviously does not have the appeal that the stingrays do for her) Others have never used a snorkel, but are willing to give it a try. But will there be a problem with her remaining in the boat, or are there other options?

We are currently scheduled to be in port from 7AM - 4PM. This is our first cruise, so I understand those who have booked through the ship get the first tenders. However, it seems that the early excursion would be the safest to take. Is it common for most people to be able to make it on time?

How far would we have to travel from where we are tendered to get to Soto's transportation?

Thank you for the forum and any advice/suggestions!

Posted: Tue Aug 29, 2006 11:28 am Post subject:

Hi Alan, welcome..... I'll take a stab at some of your questions.....

If I reserve my place with credit card, but pay with cash once I arrive, what are the cancellation policies? If I can see the week before we are scheduled to arrive that there are storms, etc. can I cancel without penalty? I don't think you will be charged if there is a cancellation, especially if there is a weather problem. If you go with Soto's, you can write and ask them. You can contact Kerry at scruises@candw.ky and she will answer our question regarding their policy.

At least one of our group is a non-snorkeler (she is blind, and although a good swimmer, it obviously does not have the appeal that the stingrays do for her) Others have never used a snorkel, but are willing to give it a try. But will there be a problem with her remaining in the boat, or are there other options? There is no problem at all with her staying on the boat during the snorkel stop, and stingray city sandbar is shallow enough that she can stand and enjoy the rays rubbing against her and she may even get one flopped up on her head! If you go with Soto's and get Billy as your captain he will ensure everyone in your group has a great time... (I have been with Soto's, and Billy many times so am promoting them because I know they do a great job)

We are currently scheduled to be in port from 7AM - 4PM. This is our first cruise, so I understand those who have booked through the ship get the first tenders. However, it seems that the early excursion would be the safest to take. Is it common for most people to be able to make it on time? I have never heard of anyone missing their excursion, if they did something that was rerecommended here, and it didn't go well, I'm sure we would have heard about it! If you tell the cruise people what time you need to be on the pier I'm sure they will get you there in time.

How far would we have to travel from where we are tendered to get to Soto's transportation? Soto's will be at the pier waiting for you if you made prior arrangements. Again, contact Kerry to make the reservations. Soto's will also take you back to the pier afterward or anywhere along 7 mile beach if you want to do some beach time, like Royals Palms for instance....

Have a great time!!

Posted: Tue Aug 29, 2006 1:19 pm Post subject:

Welcome Alan!

I believe you will do just fine with Soto's as well. I enjoy their cruises because they cater to everyone and anyone. Swimmers non swimmers alike. Kerry is very kind and I am sure their accommodations will be the best for you during this visit.

Especially the free pick up and drop off to and from Soto's Sting Ray City charter. Smile

Newbie Joined: 28 Aug 2006 Posts: 3

Thank you for your replies.

Now it seems that the others in the group are more interested in custom tours such as the "eco tour" that includes time with starfish and shells.

It is obviously more expensive and the ones we are most interested in are already booked for that date.

I realize that is not an area that you seem to promote, but if you have any suggestions for who to use or avoid, you may feel free to post or PM me.

Thanks!

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