Radiance of the Seas (Jan.11/03)

[loeppky]

Is anyone planning to be sailing on the Radiance on Jan.11? It would be fun to chat...

I also have a question for anyone who has been on a Southern Caribbean cruise. What would you say are the "must-sees" and what would be the island that might be better to stay on board?? Our ports of call are: St.Thomas, St.Maarten, St.Lucia, Barbados, and St.Johns,Antigua. Thanks!

[NancyN]

Although this cruise is very port intensive (and I love days at sea), I would be hard pressed to make a suggestion as to which port to miss, particularly if this is your first visit. Each has its own unique charm and personality. Beautiful beaches, spectacular scenery, excellent shopping - which would you prefer to eliminate from your itinerary?
Nancy

[KEB]

We will be on the Radiance on Jan 11 - I am looking so forward to seeing this ship! Yes, I have done this itinerary before, but it was five years ago on the Monarch, and we went to Martinique instead of St Lucia.

What is the makeup of your group? We are a married couple, 45 years old - actually my husband will turn 46 on the cruise.

I agree with previous post that it is hard to say what port to skip. I would say that each island offers great beach opportunities, and St Thomas and St Maarten are the ones for shopping. I mean you'll have lots of shopping at the other islands too, but St T and St M are known for the bargains, and major deals on jewelry and electronics.

I did read in someone's review of this ship that since we are in St Thomas on a Sunday, the stores will close at 1:00 that day, but on the flip side, there are almost no other ships in port for that reason. I disagree with a review I read that said to skip the Havensight Mall near the pier and go downtown instead. I think Havensight offersd about the same options, only a stone's throw from the ship - just in a more condensed setting. (my opinion, for what it's worth).

Do you have any ideas what you are going to do for excursions?