explorer w/kids Feb. 18

[Susan G]

We just booked this cruise due to default. We just found out (five months late) from our agent that our cruise has been cancelled since becoming a gay and lesbian family cruise week.

From what I've read, the ship seems great. Anyone going with kids? 10 and 13? girls?

[cotefamily]

Which ship are you refering to? What dates???? I don't understand- how did the cruise get cancelled?

[Susan G]

The ship's name and date is on the topic: Explorer on Feb. 18th.

We were cancelled off the ship because Rosie O'Donnell chartered the entire ship for one of her "sponsored" family outings. The actually gave us back our $1000 deposit and offered us $50 on board credit on our next cruise!
Wuppie!!

[cotefamily]

Oops! I need to read more carefully...
I don't think I would be too interested in cruising with them if they did that to me. You had already booked and planned for that ship on that date. $50 onboard credit does not go far- maybe a soda card, or one fingernail polished in the spa! (ha,ha) At least you were able to get out of it though- I read a review of another couple that went last month and said the boat had 800 gay men on it that took over the adult pool, and acted unruly throughout the cruise. (Not that Rosie's group would be like that)
Well, good luck. Hopefully we won't have any of these 'surprises' on our cruise next month...

[Susan G]

Also, we had given the deposit in April and they charged our credit card. We've paid interest on it for sure! Also, we were trapped with our airfare from Miami. To change to a Saturday cruise would have cost $4000!!

I would stay away from Norwegian if this is common policy for them. What is a reservation after all?

[Sonny V]

The cruise line has to pick up any and all cost to you due to their default. A reservation is a contract. You made an arrangement to secure accommodations. If I had to eat any cost because Rosie butted in, I'd have my lawer write a letter to the cruise line.

[Susan G]

Thanks. Good to know. HOpefully there will be no next time. I guess they are not responsible for airfare that you book on your own?

[Karen Knowlton]

Although it's rare, it's possible with any of the cruise lines to have your reservation cancelled due to a charter group taking over. Too bad it hit your plans, but I think you'll enjoy Explorer of the Seas quite a lot! Glad you were able to find a replacement cruise.

[Karen Knowlton]

Forgot to address Susan's question - no, cruise lines are not responsible for airfare, hotels or any other travel arrangements you make on your own.