Expert: Barbon - 8/18/2007

Question
QUESTION: This is our second cruise; the first out of San Juan,PR was rough seas the first night. I had problems with the motion and was not real comfortable the whole time. We were on a smaller ship, Regency, Navigator. This year I am trying a larger ship; we booked the western 6 day on the Royal Caribbean Radiance. Can we expect calmer waters in December in western part and is weather not so good down Cozumel, Caymen? I want to snorkel this time.

ANSWER: Hi,
  The Western Caribbean lies closer to the Gulf so if there are some storms in the area you may feel some motion. The Radiance is a larger ship and is 6 years old, so it is not one of the newest ones out there.  You do not say when in Dec. you are going.  The weather should be better the later in December that you go.  The Eastern tends to be a calmer cruise.  That being said, the weather could be perfect and you will not have any problem.  The Western is known for snorkeling, you will have no problem finding great snorkeling there.  I am not trying to discourage you, but if you are really concerned about motion the Western would not be my first choice.  We have done it several times, and have had both calm and not so calm seas, but that does not bother us.  Hope this helps and I am sure you will have a wonderful cruise.
Barbara

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Were taking the 16-21 Dec cruise out of Ft. Lauderdale. I am going for the snorkling. We stop at Key West, Cozumel, Cayman, Jamacia and back; one day at sea. I think the storms leaving San Juan last time got me off to a bad time the first night; even the seasoned cruisers had problems. I am going to try Bonnie before cruise and one each day. My husband enjoyed the first cruise so much, I am willing to try one more to see if this one is better. Thanks for your comments and does the waters seem better for 16-21 Dec?

Answer
Hi,
Yes, the weather should be better towards the end of Dec.  Dramamine works VERY WELL and you should get the less drowsy formula.  Take 1 an hour before you sail and take one again the next day.  This should get you through your first night if you are nervous.  Just ask you doctor if it is ok for you to take this if you are on other medications.  You are doing great stops for snorkeling, especially Cozumel and the Caymans.  Be careful in Jamaica and take the conch train ride around Key West.  Enjoy your cruise and don't worry so much about the sea sickness.
Barbara