Expert: Barbon - 1/17/2006

Question
carribean cruise
We are 2 families who wish to spend next Christmas on a 5 day cruise to  the carribean. We live in Ca. There are 4 adult parents and 5 adult children all in their 20's. We would like to spend the front side of Christmas on the boat. 4 of us Love golf.  My daughter and I  get seasick pretty easy.  The 2 married  parent couples  would like their own room, then there are the 2 girls in one room and 3 boys in another room is that possible?
What are the calmest seas? Which islands do you suggest, what is so great about celebrity?
Thanks

Answer
Hi,
  First, keep in mind that the Christmas season is the most expensive season for a cruise.  Second, many of the new larger ships do not do 5 day cruises so make sure you check with a good cruise only travel agent and see that you get on one of the larger vessels.  Motion is less of a problem on the newer ships.
  As for the sleeping arrangements.  Many cabins hold 4 people and Celebrity has a catagory called FV that are made specifically for parties of 4.  We stayed in one once, (we were actually only 2 but were able to book it).  They are nice because they have a sliding door separating the room between the bed portion and the sofa bed portion.  Most ships can accomodate the sleeping arrangements which you request.  
  Celebrity is a wonderful line, great food, elegant atmosphere and wonderful service.  That being said, with children in their 20's I would probably opt for Royal Caribbean.  They are the parent company to Celebrity.  Not quite as upscale but definitely geared to the ages of your adult children.  These ships (the newer bigger ones) have malls, ice skating, rock climbing, etc., which I think would appeal to this age group.  The food is not quite up to par with Celebrity but I think in general would be more fun.
  I would definitely opt for Eastern Caribbean, I have always found the weather much nice then Western Caribbean and the seas calmer.  
  I have not looked at the holiday schedule, but I would first check to see if any of the larger modern ships are doing a 5 day.  Some of the older ones that do a 5 day I would not opt to do.
  Hope this helps.
Barbara