The Alamo
The most popular attraction in Texas, the Alamo welcomes over 2.5 million visitors each year. The Alamo played a crucial part in the Texas Revolution, as it was here that a small band of Texans fought for 13 days against the Mexican army of Santa Anna.
Anaheim-Santa Ana, California
Anaheim and Santa Ana are the major tourist destinations in California's Orange County. Both cities are a short distance from the coast, making them especially popular for summer vacations. Disneyland calls Anaheim home, the Walt Disney Company is the city's largest employer.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is the biggest airport in the U.S. so flights to the ATL are frequent and cheap. It’s a great place to take kids — you can take in the Coca-Cola Museum (pictured) and the nation’s largest aquarium all in the same block. While you’re in the area, cool off by walking through the fountains at Centennial Olympic Park. If you want some outdoor adventure, you can rent a canoe and sail right through town on the Chattahoochee River. Travel just a few minutes east of the city and you’ll encounter Stone Mountain, the Mount Rushmore of the South. Ride the tram to the top and see all of Atlanta on a clear day. Pockets empty? Not to worry, there’s lot to do for free in Atlanta. Explore the Fernabank Science Center or the Governor’s Mansion. Take in a little bit of history with free tour of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birth home or the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum.
Austin, Texas
“Keep Austin Weird” is a t-shirt slogan you are sure to see a lot of in this city, in large part because of the uniqueness of its residents and businesses. Locals and visitors alike gather along Austin’s 6th Street to visit the area’s best nightlife. The already strong music scene gets further expanded when the city hosts some of the most popular music festivals in the country, including South by Southwest, the Austin City Limits Music Festival, or the Urban Music Festival. While in the region, many also visit the Texas Hill Country, an area of rolling hills and bike paths outside the city limits. Barton Springs, which supplies water to the Barton Springs Pool, is also a popular place to visit for those looking for a break from the Texas summer heat.
Bahia Honda State Park, Florida
Bahia Honda has several white sandy beaches for you to enjoy. Calusa is the smallest beach; it is located on the northwest side of the island. There are several small pavilions in this area and a bathhouse with outdoor, fresh water showers. Loggerhead is the shallowest beach and is located on the south side of the island. It is known for the large shallow sand bar just a few feet offshore.
Boston, Massachusetts
Quincy Market is a popular destination that will get you oriented with both the layout and distinctive style of this historic city. And speaking of history, Fenway Park is popular with locals and tourists alike, and you don’t even have to be a Red Sox fan to enjoy a game (but it helps!). You may also want to put some class in your trip and take a free walking tour of one of the many elite colleges located in Boston. Harvard, MIT and the famed Berklee College of Music are all loaded with historic buildings and grounds. Pretend you’re a student for a day! The city is also home to one of the best aquariums in the eastern United States. When your visit at the aquarium is over, spend the rest of the day walking the waterfront or visiting one of Boston’s excellent seafood restaurants.
Bozeman, Montana
Though Bozeman is far from being the largest city in Montana, its landscape is highly rated by Montana travelers. Nestled by the Rocky Mountains and the Gallatin National Forest, Bozeman is an outdoorsman’s paradise. Get away from the bustle of the big city and enjoy the peace and quite of nature while fly-fishing or exploring wildlife on a safari tour. If taking it relatively easy is not your thing, then sign up for a thrilling whitewater rafting trip, but make sure you hold on tight — some of the raft trips are not for the faint of heart.
Branson, Missouri
Branson is an unassuming vacation destination with small-town charm and big-city entertainment in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Millions of visitors come each year to see a show at any of the 50 theaters and enjoy outdoor fun on the lake.
Caladesi Island State Park, Florida
This Florida state park has 3 miles of nature trail and 108-slip marina. Caladesi Island has something for everyone. Picnic pavilions, bathhouses, and a park concession all make the visit more comfortable. Fishing, shelling, and nature studies are all ways to enjoy a visit.
Canadian Rockies
Alberta's section of the Rocky Mountains is a glorious playground of waterways ringed by snowcapped peaks. Grab bikes and ride around that gem of water, Lake Louise, perched a mile high, and you'll understand. Then hike with rangers at Banff and Jasper national parks to see glaciers and grizzlies at a distance. You can paddle the shores of Maligne Lake or raft down the Sunwapta River, an exciting yet safe introduction to whitewater rafting.
Cancun, Mexico
Miles of beaches, endless luxury accommodations and a nonstop party atmosphere in Cancun have transformed this once sleepy village on the Yucatan coast into one of Mexico's most popular tourist attractions, particularly during spring break.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Once you drive past the Cape's elbow, heading north up the forearm, congestion and commercialism subside, replaced by the long stretch of sand, dunes, and moors that make up the Cape Cod National Seashore. During his presidency, John F. Kennedy fought hard to designate the 40-mile stretch of fine, white beach that lines the Upper Cape a national seashore. Learn about the history and ecology of the region at the Salt Pond Visitor Center. Afterwards, rent bikes down the road at Little Capistrano Bike Shop and ride the 3.2-mile (round-trip) National Seashore Bike Trail through woods and marsh to Coast Guard Beach, where towering dunes back the beach.
Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Carolina Beach is also known for its sand. Windsurfing is a popular activity in this resort town, with scores of colorful wind sails peppering the surf on windy days. Deep sea fishing is extremely popular among locals and tourists alike. Charter a boat or go on one of many group excursions available. In addition to water activities also check out the boardwalk, enjoy great local restaurants, shopping and family activities, such as miniature golf, bumper cars or renting bicycles.
Charleston, South Carolina
With scores of historic buildings, and several Civil War sites (including a Civil War battleship monument), one can almost feel the Old South come alive in this sunny southern harbor town. Art lovers will also be able to appreciate Charleston as one of the top 25 art destinations in the U.S., according to the magazine American Style.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago's dining, cultural and recreation options rival any city in the world. It's an outstanding choice for Midwesterners looking for a destination to which they can either drive or find a cheap flight. Summer tourists hide from the infamous heat in the air-conditioned museums and Michigan Avenue stores, or embrace the high temperatures in Millennium Park or at one of the many city beaches along Lake Michigan.
Collingwood, Canada
If tearing down the slopes isn't exactly your idea of skiing fun, maybe a less-intense winter getaway is in order. Nestled in the shadow of the Niagara Escarpment and surrounded by Georgian Bay (about 90 miles away from Toronto), Collingwood is Ontario, Canada's, quintessential family destination, where ski-bunnies-in-training can take advantage of the wide variety of lessons and activities available to kids while their parents get a much-deserved break. And even if you don't have any kids in tow, Collingwood is the perfect place to learn to ski or brush up on long-forgotten skills without the pressure of a major mountain looming.
Cumberland Island, Georgia
Cumberland Island is 17.5 miles long and totals 36,415 acres of which 16,850 are marsh, mud flats, and tidal creeks. It is well known for its sea turtles, wild turkeys, wild horses, armadillos, abundant shore birds, dune fields, maritime forests, salt marshes, and historic structures. Visit Cumberland Island National Seashore for a natural experience: sun and sand, beautiful vistas and relaxing atmosphere.
Dallas, Texas
Although it's only the third largest city in Texas, Dallas is the state's most popular tourist destination. It's a major convention city, and also draws a large number of casual tourists. Although this large city has a lot to offer, they are definitely known for their food. The city boasts excellent restaurants that serve barbecue, authentic Mexican, and Tex-Mex cuisines. Dallas offers more restaurants per capita than even New York City. For an educational trip, kids are admitted free to the 6th Floor Museum, which takes a look at the life of JFK. Save on gas and parking by getting to the renovated warehouse district Deep Elm for a look at interesting local shops and the cities best music scene; find a local band and get a reasonably priced ticket at two of their better venues: Club Clearview and Trees.
Denver, Colorado
The Gateway to the Rockies provides an incredibly diverse set of activities for any tourist. You can start in the city by visiting the Denver Zoo, the mile-long 16th Street Mall, or one of dozens of local brewpubs in a city famed for its beer. You can also take advantage of Denver’s 300 days of average annual sunshine and check out one of the many local fly-fishing, rock climbing or white water rafting guide companies.
Fort Desoto Park, Florida
Fort Desoto is located in the southwest corner of Mullet Key, at the entrance to Tampa Bay. The entire island is now Fort De Soto Park, a Pinellas county park which offers fine beaches, fishing, nature trails, camping, boating, and much more.
Hamoa Beach, Hawaii
Located just outside of Hana, this beautiful public beach shares some facilities with the Hotel Hana Maui. Sea cliffs surround the bay and the vegetation is lush. This beach has been voted one of Hawaii's favorite beaches. Offshore is the little coconut-topped island of Alau.
Hapuna Beach, Hawaii
Hapuna Beach in Hawaii is a wonderful sandy beach, 1/2 mile long and almost 200 feet wide during the summer months. Swimming conditions here are usually excellent. There is easy access to the water, full facilities, crystal clear water and beautiful scenery. Snorkeling is great at the south end of the beach where the fish are varied and there is a coral reef.
Hoover Dam
Just a short ride from Las Vegas, you'll find one of the countries most notable national landmarks -- Hoover Dam at the Arizona/Nevada state line. Take a tour down into the bottom of the dam and learn more about its history and function.
Hulopo'e Beach, Lanai, Hawaii
This protected beach is the safest place on the island to swim. It's beautiful white sand beach and underwater coral formations makes it the central recrational area on Lanai. The Manele Bay Hotel sits on the bluff overlooking this perfect site. The beach is located in a protected Marine Life Conservation Area so there are numerous and colorful fish as well as unique coral formations found here. To the left of the beach is Pu'u Pehe Rock, also known as Sweetheart Rock.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
ust a quick ferry ride from Cancún but seemingly a world away, Isla Mujeres is a glimpse into Mexico's quieter, less-touristed past, especially when the tour boats have left for the day and those bunking on the "Island of Women" have it all to themselves. Laid-back is the way at this top winter getaway, whether lazing on the white-sand beaches by day or idling away an evening in one of the many open-air cafes in town. Though there are accommodations here to suit any budget, those looking for luxe opulence will be better off in Cancún, because pretension is about as welcome here as the crowds.
Isla Taboga, Panama
Just an hour by ferry from Panama City, Panama, (12 miles to be exact) exists the quiet cousin of the bustling capital city. Isla Taboga is an escape from the urban madness of Panama City for locals and tourists alike – a wander along the network of well-maintained paths lined with colorful orchids and enveloped by the lush landscape of the rain forest is enough to get you in winter getaway vacation mode in no time. The remote beach with its crystal-blue waters – great for snorkeling, kayaking, and whale-watching – is the ideal place to soak up the sun on this so-called "sleepy isle."
Jasper National Park, Canada
Situated in the Alberta Rockies, Jasper National Park is one of Canada's most spectacular treasures with 4,200 square miles of wilderness to explore. For an ideal winter getaway, head straight to Marmot Basin for 3,000 vertical feet of downhill trails, or enjoy mile after undisturbed mile available for Nordic skiing. Even if you don't ski, there's plenty of winter fun to be had, whether it be on skis, snowshoes, dog sled, or snowmobile. Add to that the fact that winter is Jasper's low season and you've got a wilderness adventure at a veritable bargain.
Kailua Beach , Hawaii
Kailua Beach is often rated as the "Best Beach in the World," is a generally wonderful place to enjoy swimming and beach recreational activities. It has a very nice, fine sandy beach. There are generally no significantly hazardous ocean or beach conditions.Kailua Beach is a world-class wind surfing destination for pros and amateurs alike. There are several shops in Kailua town which offer rental gear and that can arrange for lessons.
Laguna Beach, California
The seven miles of coastline are considered to be among the most beautiful in the world. Giant 15-foot waves provide great surfing, as well as windsurfing and body boarding. Also, Laguna Beach is home to a vibrant arts community. The Laguna Playhouse is the oldest continually operating theater on the West Coast, providing both well-known and obscure productions in an intimate setting.
Lahaina, Maui (Hawaii)
As far as beach vacations go, it doesn’t get any better than a trip to Hawaii, if you can manage to cough up the airfare. Maui is an exceptional island that combines the laid-back surfer lifestyle with all the modern amenities. Almost any beach you’ll stumble upon has crystal clear water and great snorkeling, but if you’re looking for something a little drier, check out the Maui Ocean Center. There, visitors can see spectacular live coral displays (the largest collection in the nation), enjoy playful swimming displays by Hawaii’s beloved green sea turtles, awe at close encounters with sharks, rays and more – while learning about Hawaii’s natural history and cultural heritage.
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks is a reservoir that serves as a paradise for fishing enthusiasts with large mouth bass, walleye, and bluegill populating the lake year-round across over 1,150 miles of shoreline. Local fishing guides are available to take visitors directly to the "hot spots," and provide tackle and bait.
London, England
London is a cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of historic traditions and a hip, modern culture. You can enjoy tea and crumpets and celebrate the city’s royal roots before heading out to a slick gastropub for gourmet dinner and drinks.
Los Angeles, California
Get a feel for the local scene by taking a stroll down Venice Beach Boardwalk, and if you’d rather get another perspective on the beach, start at Santa Monica Pier and ride the giant Ferris wheel. After some time at the beach, head to Hollywood Boulevard and the Forecourt of the Stars at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre to measure your hands and feet against the hand prints and footprints of Hollywood’s legendary actors. Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and stop to take a picture with the Hollywood sign behind you in the hills. If you know when you’ll be heading out west, try to attend a taping of your favorite game show, talk show or sitcom — tickets are always free. If you’re looking for learning activities for the whole family, check out the California Science Center or Getty Museum. Admission is free for both but parking will cost you a few bucks. The view from the Getty hilltop fortress alone is worth the drive.
Los Cabos, Mexico
From Hollywood stars to rowdy teens, Los Cabos, Mexico, attracts 'em all for a quick winter getaway – and it's no wonder. Beaches, mountain, and deserts – you name it, this place has got it – with a plethora of activities to enjoy the best of each. Scuba diving, fishing, golfing, whale-watching, hiking, and biking are just a few of the outings on offer. Whether you choose to stay in crazy Cabo San Lucas with its bars and nightclubs or in the quieter, picture-perfect village of San Jose del Cabo, you are guaranteed a good time.
Maui, Hawaii
Home to Oahu's world-famous Waikiki Beach, the volcanoes of the Big Island, and Kauai's lush foliage, Hawaii truly is America's magical island destination. It's an enchanted land where the extraordinary becomes ordinary—whales breaching in turquoise waters, a river of red lava flowing from a crater, or a simple hula dance on white sands as sunset streaks across the sky in shades of amber.
Miami, Florida
The American Riviera, Hollywood of the East, SoBe, or the Art Deco District -- whatever you call it, Miami's South Beach is hot year-round. The embodiment of excess, South Beach is an international playground offering non-stop nightlife, sandy shores, unique architecture and plenty of eye candy.
Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota
The metro area surrounding the Mississippi River (known as the Twin Cities) has quietly become one of the country’s best hubs for the arts. There are more theater seats here per capita than in any U.S. city besides New York, and the music scene boasts diverse genres from punk to folk to hip-hop. You will also want to check out both the St. Paul Cathedral and the Basilica of St. Mary located in Minneapolis; both were built during the great rivalry these two cities had during the early part of the 20th century. And don’t leave the Twin Cities without taking advantage of the many parks and lakes in the region. Being part of both the state and city slogan, the numerous lakes offer tourists plenty of chances to get outside for a day of fishing and boating.
Mont-Tremblant, Canada
One of the most popular skiing destinations in eastern Canada and boasting some of the highest peaks of the Laurentian Mountain chain, Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, is a winter wonderland of adventure. Besides downhill skiing, there are 93 miles of cross-country trails (used annually for the Canadian Ski Marathon). Combine this with the string of cozy chalets and relaxing spas within close proximity to the mountain, and you can transform your quick winter getaway into pure pampering bliss.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Jamaica may do duty as a spring-break central every year, but the reggae-centric spot has a fascinating history, vibrant culture, and passionate political past that make it an enchanting (and warm!) place to visit for a quick winter getaway. Known as MoBay, Jamaica’s second-largest city is the premier tourist destination on the northwest coast, offering travelers everything from picture-perfect white-sand beaches to river rafting; from spicy jerk chicken to some of the best golf in the West Indies.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
As the largest resort along South Carolina's 60-mile Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is the East Coast's ultimate vacation hub. The town teems with summertime action along the Strand with beaches, amusement and water parks, restaurants and live entertainment and a host of hotels ready to pamper guests young and old.
Nashville, Tennessee
Although a large city by Tennessee’s standards, boasting some skyscrapers, Nashville has a small town feel. If you like music, then Nashville could be your best bet for a summertime vacation. By day, grab a cheeseburger in paradise at Rotier’s and then a chocolate shake down the street at Elliston Soda Shop. Across the street, wander through the campus of Vanderbilt and even catch some sun on the main lawn while being surrounded by a beautiful arboretum. Head down to Market Street at night and walk into to one of many joints with live music. Duck into the Wildhorse Saloon and do a line dance before heading to Broadway for some famous honky-tonks, including Tootsies, The Bluebird Café (where Faith Hill was discovered), and Earnest Tubb. Opryland is just outside Nashville, complete with a theme park and musical shows. The people are nice, the food is great, and there aren’t many cities in the U.S. that provide so many opportunities to see live music.
New Braunfels, Texas
Originally a German settlement named ‘Neu-Braunfels,’ the city of New Braunfels is located in the heart of Texas, near San Antonio. In recent years, it has turned into an up-and-coming vacation spot with a myriad of recreational opportunities that include popular water sports.Originally a German settlement named ‘Neu-Braunfels,’ the city of New Braunfels is located in the heart of Texas, near San Antonio. In recent years, it has turned into an up-and-coming vacation spot with a myriad of recreational opportunities that include popular water sports.
New Orleans, Louisiana
There aren’t very many cities that offer as diverse an experience as New Orleans. The famed French Quarter and Bourbon Street are on everyone’s list of things to see, and besides the great restaurants and nightlife, the city is also home to Tulane and Loyola University. A walk down Magazine Street is a required trip for anyone who enjoys perusing unique boutique stores and antique shops, and both the New Orleans Mint and The Historic New Orleans Collection can give the history buff his fix. And of course there is the jazz. As the birthplace of the genre, it still boasts scores of talented local acts and clubs; Preservation Hall and Fritzel’s are a good place to start for those looking to enjoy the music.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport, Rhode Island served as summer vacation spot to the White House for Presidents John F. Kennedy and Dwight Eisenhower. Moreover, John and Jackie Kennedy got married at the local St. Mary’s church. The harbor town is home to some of the freshest seafood on the Atlantic Coast. Aside from that, some of the most opulent mansions in the world are located in Newport including the Vanderbilt mansion, The Breakers. Newport is also home to many private and public sailing clubs that offer sailing excursions and lessons for beginners. There are also many cultural attractions in the area to enjoy such as lighthouse tours, museums and brewery/winery tours.
New York, New York
New York is true to its roots and remains a city of immigrants with inspiring architecture and a thriving arts scene. Take in a show on Broadway, shop in SoHo, spend a lazy day in Central Park and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Ocracoke Island is accessible only by water or air, and is part of Hyde County. It is one of the barrier islands of the Outer Banks of North Carolina where the pirate Blackbeard is known to have once roamed. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore, with the Pamlico Sound on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, its 16 miles of sun-swept wilderness beaches offer something for everyone.
Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach is also home of the largest Ferris wheel of the Southeast, located at The Wharf, and hosts many sporting events at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. In addition to the beach and shopping there is everything from seafood, art and even German Sausage festivals to Mardi Gras celebrations in Orange Beach. With year round activities there is always something to enjoy while vacationing here.
Orlando, Florida
There’s fun around every corner in Orlando with wild roller coasters, twisting waterslides and theme-park fun. Mickey Mouse certainly plays a starring role in the festivities, but there’s plenty of magic beyond the realm of Disney.
Paris, France
Like all great cities, you can spend months in Paris and barely scratch the surface of the city’s cultural treasures. It has museums galore, stellar shopping and busy cafés perfect for people-watching.
Perdido Key, Florida
“Perdido” means “lost” or “hidden” in Spanish, and refers back to how this elusive bay was discovered by Spanish cartographer and scientist, Don Carlos Siquenza in 1693. As a result, many local residents refer to Perdido Key as Lost Key. This barrier island is located in extreme northwest Florida and southeast Alabama with beautiful beaches, parks, and preserves making up 61% of the area. Visitors can enjoy trails and endangered wildlife, such as the Perdido Key Beach Mouse and sea turtles.
Phoenix, Arizona
For the sports fan, there aren’t many better places to get your fix than Phoenix. The area is not only home to all four major professional sports, but also houses more niche events and large annual contests such as professional lacrosse, MLB spring training, two NASCAR events as well as both boat and drag races. With its warm, dry weather, Phoenix is the perfect setting for water parks such as Big Surf, Waterworld Safari and the Oasis Water Park. The Desert Botanical Garden is also an must see, with 50 acres that house the world’s finest collection of desert plants mixed with incredible blown glass sculpture (pictured). It’s not just cacti, we swear! Many also take advantage of being able to drive the Apache Trail, stopping along the scenic route to visit a number of historic sites such as the Lost Dutchman State Park, Goldfield Ghost Town, and Theodore Roosevelt Dam.
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is jam packed with free things to do. Dance some salsa on the Delaware River and eat authentic dishes from the Caribbean, Ireland, and Mexico, then head to the heart of Philadelphia and get free tickets to tour both Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Philadelphia’s Art Museum is the the best photo opportunity in the city: right beside a statue of famous movie boxer Rocky. While you’re there, enjoy the view from the steps of the museum and try to catch a glimpse of a crew team rowing down the river. If you want to grab a cheap bite to eat, head to Philadelphia’s Italian Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the U.S.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Sixty miles south of Cancun, the authentic seacoast village of Playa del Carmen was once a quiet outpost favored by European backpackers. Now it's the gateway to Mayan ruins, miles of pearly white coastline, and a surprising number of new all-inclusive resorts. Children will love Xel-Ha, a series of shallow calm lagoons where you can teach them to safely snorkel. Then head further south to the ruins of Tulum and view 60 ancient buildings perched on a cliff directly above a palm-fringed beach. Archaeologists estimate the beginnings of Tulum from 700 to 1,000 A.D., when the Mayan civilization had passed its peak.
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Prince Edward Island will always conjure images of that pony-tailed 11-year-old girl Lucy Maud Montgomery made famous in her book, Anne of Green Gables. Be sure to tour The Green Gables site and Lucy Maud Montgomery's home in popular Cavendish, near the miniature golf courses and water parks. Be forewarned that this banana-shaped island in northeastern Canada is no mere tourism hub. It's a bucolic chunk of green space, like a slice of Vermont plopped down in the middle of the Atlantic.
Portland, Oregon
For those who like their summers sunny and comfortable, it doesn’t get much better than Portland, with its low seasonal rain and average highs in the upper 70s. They take their open spaces very seriously in Oregon’s largest city. It’s home to one of the largest wilderness parks within city limits in the United States, and those who enjoy everything green might also want to check out the Portland Classical Chinese Garden, an authentic recreation of a Suzhou-style walled garden. Portland is also home to the largest independent bookstore in the West, Powell’s City of Books, as well as several craft beer festivals, which bring in tens of thousands of happy visitors each year.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Revered as one of the last unspoiled frontiers of the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos are tailor-made for winter getaways to the beach thanks to their proximity to the U.S. The main island, Providenciales (known as Provo), is home to Grace Bay – one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and protected by a natural 499-mile-long barrier reef that affords it clear turquoise waters for miles. Provo is an oasis for those seeking to do little more than lounge on the white-sand beaches or explore the waters, as there are few diversions other than surf, sun, and sand.
Punta de Mita, Mexico
A far cry from the muddled streets of Puerto Vallarta, but just a short distance away, Punta de Mita is fast becoming Mexico's most exclusive destination. With a slew of luxury resorts having opened their doors over the last decade or so, today's visitors can pamper themselves by booking a room at the posh Four Seasons or St. Regis, or by renting a villa along the dazzling coast. But it's Punta de Mita's natural beauty – a 1,500-acre spear-shaped peninsula surrounded on three sides by immaculate beaches and three bodies of water – that really makes this a standout winter getaway.
Roatan, Honduras
A tropical winter weekend getaway can be had in up-and-coming Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras. Wild parrots, iguanas, and monkeys roam freely among the lush countryside and mountainous spine, while the clear turquoise waters and the surrounding reef make for an unmatched underwater experience; expect to see shipwrecks, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales when diving offshore. There are no fancy high-rise hotels, malls, or golf courses here – just miles of unspoiled beaches and tropical landscapes.
Rome, Italy
The Eternal City Rome celebrates its long history with monuments, churches and restored ruins that offer a glimpse into life during the days of the great Roman Empire. Celebrate the city’s roots and immerse yourself in the culture over a heaping bowl of pasta and a taste of gelato.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a jewel in the crown of Texas. With just over a million citizens, San Antonio is the second largest city in Texas. San Antonio has a strong military presence--it is home to Fort Sam Houston, Lackland Air Force Base, Randolph Air Force Base, and Brooks City-Base, with Camp Bullis and Camp Stanley outside the city.
San Diego, California
Despite its Southern location on California's border with Mexico, San Diego doesn't enjoy warm weather year-round, so summertime is optimal for enjoying the palm tree lined paradise that is La Jolla Beach. Other favored destinations include Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter.
San Francisco, California
Bring a hearty appetite and good walking shoes to the City by the Bay. For a quintessential San Francisco experience, climb aboard a cable car, peruse the farm-fresh goods at the Ferry Market, stroll through Golden Gate Park and board a ferry to the island of Alcatraz for a dose of history and great city views.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a natural beauty, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the foothills of the Rockies, with an average of 300 days of sunshine and clear blue skies. One of the most unique offerings of Santa Fe is the open-air opera (pictured). Take a backstage tour for only $5, or catch some of the best operas under the stars. Italian a little rusty? Don’t worry, this opera house has electronic translators on the back of each seat so you can read along in English while you listen to the beautiful music. Santa Fe is probably the best place in the world to shop for American Indian arts and crafts. Find a great Native American memento from a vendor in front of the Palace of the Governors. For higher-quality Indian art, try vendors clustered around the Plaza.
Seattle, Washington
The birthplace of grunge music is also the unofficial capital of coffee consumption in the United States. Why? Starbucks and Seattle’s Best Coffee were founded in Seattle, of course. Depending on the weekend, you might find one of several major festivals held in the city; from the music event Bumbershoot held over Labor Day weekend to the one of the many ethnic festivals held each year. You can also check out some of the dozens of museums, including the Seattle Metropolitan Police Museum, Museum of Flight, or the Museum of History and Industry. From there, many sign up for the Seattle Underground Tour, a trek to many places that existed before the city’s Great Fire.
Snowbird, Utah
If the sight of snow gets your family excited, grab a pair of skis and head to Snowbird for a wonderful, wintry vacation. The resort rests in Little Cottonwood Canyon, which offers 3,240 feet and 5,000 acres of mountain to explore, and whose proximity to the Great Salt Lake ensures over 500 inches of snow falls annually.
St Joseph Peninsula State Park, FL (Cape San Blas)
This beach has miles of white sand beaches, striking dune formations, a heavily-forested interior and a favorable climate for year-round outdoor recreation characterize this peninsular state park. The 2,516-acre park is bounded on three sides by the waters of St. Joe Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee means “salt” to Native Americans who used to inhabit this island prior to the arrival of Spanish settlers in the 1600s. One of the main attractions of Tybee Island is the wide, three-mile long beach that’s backed by grass-covered sand dunes. With only a little over 3,000 full-time island residents, it hardly ever gets crowded in Tybee. Visitors are able to get a taste of the laid back lifestyle by staying in one of the local neighborhood homes for rent in Tybee Island.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
The beaches are wonderful (and plentiful!) in Virginia. The waves that roll in from the Atlantic are much higher and conducive to surfing than the waves on most other East Coast beaches. Moreover, the boardwalks, restaurants, and nightlife in Virginia Beach are second to none.
Washington D.C.
Visiting D.C. is as American as apple pie, so get your comfortable walking shoes on and get ready to see some of the most iconic tourist attractions in the country. Enjoy the classics first, like the Washington Monument (pictured), Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. When monument fatigue sets in, head to the Smithsonian to see everything from diamonds to spaceships. And the best part? Admission is free!
Yellowstone National Park
On the Wyoming-Montana Border, Yellowstone is the country's first and arguably finest national park. One day you're watching a towering geyser by the name of Old Faithful erupt. The next day you're going eyeball to eyeball with buffalo, elk, and moose in Hayden Valley, a favorite wildlife hangout far away from the road. The more adventurous can hike to the summit of 10,243-foot peak, Mount Washburn, or cast out the fly for trout on some of the clearest water you'll ever see.
Caribbean Cruise Line onboard the SS (MS) Bahamas Celebration is a Hoax
Recently I was contacted by a survey firm, and the reward for the survey was a free cruise. I know, this sounds oddly like a too good to be true story, and I should have realized this as soon as it happened, but the lesson was yet to be learnt.
After completing this quick survey, I gave them my email address where they forwarded me a sample voucher of the free cruise: all things ok so far. I was told that I would be contacted within 72hrs with further details on the cruise and thanked for my time.
So, about 4 days later or so, I got a call from this firm Caribbean Cruise Lines. Again, I should have suspected something was odd when first off, when I was talking with this guy, he would sometimes, right in the middle of me explaining something he asked me the question to, go talk to somebody else, and I would have to repeat myself.
Ok, I can handle that. I asked him all the questions in the world, hummed and hawed, and was told that this offer wouldn’t be available to me in the future, and that I couldn’t think about it and phone them back, I had to put the money down, they quoted me $59.00 for the first two passengers to reserve, and for two it was $118.00 total. They put a limit saying I must have at least 2 passengers, and no more than 4. Ohhhk, this was all fair, I guess, since I was planning on doing this anyways. The money, I was told, was to pay for the port taxes and to reserve a space on the vessel, and also that I had three days to get my money back. Ok, whatever, they didn’t stipulate this when I was told it was going to be a free cruise. The odd thing, I felt, was that I had to put the money down right then and there. I looked on their webpage:
http://caribbeancl.com/index-3.html (
www.caribbeancl.com) and ok, they claimed Carmen Electra was their spokes person. Does that make things legitimate then? Shame on Miss. Electra.
I viewed the page, looked at the privacy policy and checked out everything, things seemed to be official. One line I clearly missed “5. Recipient is responsible for actual port charges and government taxes of $59 per person at time of booking. These charges are non-refundable. “ – now started the fun.
So, I put down the money, and they took my visa and address and email and phone number and told me that I would receive my package within three days, and also that I’d get an email with more information on how to book my seat. They told me that there was no black-out dates, except between a few weeks in April that were of no concern to me since I would be using it within a month or so (February).
Three days later, I hadn’t received even a confirmation email, no nothing, so I phoned the number they had given me and tried to see what I could get. They told me when I told them the time I wanted to go, without any hesitation, that the dates I wanted to go were not available for the price class of room I won, and paid for already (not much of a free winning is it?). My only options for the time would be to upgrade for $350.00 to either a better room, or a 4 day cruise package… Right.
I was now getting mad, and disturbed, which further elevated my previous skepticism about this company or ‘sweet deal’ as they kept trying to tell me.
I asked for my refund “please”. They told me the only way to get my money was to a) resell the package to a friend, or b) they could extend the voucher for another 24 months, so I’d have 3 years to give them $350.00.
Needless to say, I didn’t approve of either of these options, was furious at the scam that I had been dragged through, but glad that I wasn’t out the full $500.00 it would have taken me for this FREE CRUISE package. I am hoping that what I write here today will open any one’s eyes up to similar situations, or even other deals that this company tries to offer. I suspect they get enough suckers like me to employ about 6 people, for I was in contact with probably all of them.
By the way, it has been about a week now, and I still haven’t received this package they promised me would be emailed as well as mailed to me.
NEW INFORMATION.
This may or may not be related, but I’ve been getting calls from an unknown number, when I answer, they hang up and call me repeatedly. So, I did a bit of research and found that this company has a history, and its from a Imperial Majesty Cruise Lines, so I thought I’d link you all to this website that explains a bit more: 19543510087 .
God these guys are annoying. Just keep feeding the fire.
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Hey, you all do know that this “ship” is a converted ferry, right? It’s not even a real ocean liner or cruise ship! Imperial Majesty Cruise Lines (IMCL) had a “ship” called the Regal Empress, also a converted ferry, but that little ship is junk now. I guess it’s somewhere out in India waiting to or has already been scrapped because it could not meet the new 2010 SOLAS standards.
So now, this Celebration Cruise Line/Caribbean Cruise Line has been filling the void that IMCL left and now uses this Bahama Celebration “ship,” also a converted ferry, as a means for cruising to the Bahamas for short 2-Night stays, and is specifically aimed towards first time cruisers! And It’s maddd ghetto from what I seen in the online photo galleries at
http://www.cruisecritic.com/ and the terrible reviews (hundreds of them) to complement the photos. The photos people took while on the cruise and the reviews people posted after returning home from the trip! And believe me people, it’s all bad!
One woman even tells a story about how she witnessed passengers from the CCL ship getting escorted off, wearing handcuffs, by customs and immigration! Another couple tells a story of how a waiter went around, in the “upgrade” section you have to pay extra for, with a used fork to peel the shells off of the shrimp that came with his Surf and Turf dinner! He didn’t even eat the shrimp he was so disgusted! And not to mention the chaos and confusion during the check in process! Read the reviews and look at the photos for yourself!
This “CCL” cruise company is bad news! I have read maybe a hand full of decent reviews, and I can’t help but to think that someone from that company wrote those reviews in hopes of counteracting the bad ones, because even if just one person says, “Hey, I had a great time, try it out” maybe that will create some doubt and people will ignore the bad reviews as a result of that one good review!! A little elaborate, but it’s possible right? I know all this because I did my homework…
I was connected to the Caribbean Cruise Line (CCL) switchboard, yesterday, after I had ordered something from TV. I was informed that I had been “selected” to receive a FREE cruise and was connected to that CCL company.
I waited patiently on the phone as tropical music played in the background and the recording of a man’s voice came on saying, “We’ll be right with you! Here’s our toll free number to call should we get disconnected,1-800 blah blah blah. Again that number is…” I didn’t write the number down.
Shortly after, I was greeted by a young man who identified himself by his first name and ID#, and then informed me that he was a Senior Travel Agent for CCL. He said that I have been selected to receive a FREE, promotional, 2-Night Cruise to the Grand Bahama Islands! Accommodations are for 2 people, with a maximum of 4. He asked if I was married or single? He asked if I could find someone to go with me? He asked who he was speaking with and I identified myself. He asked for my phone number, with area code, in case we got disconnected. I gave it to him.
Now, I was on my way to claiming my FREE, promotional cruise! Everything included! Meals, cabin, entertainment… All I had to do is pay $118.00 for port fees (which makes sense, because that’s $59.00 per person = $118.00), provide my own transportation to the port, and tell people about the great time I had in the Bahamas! That sounded great!
See, I have never been on a cruise before and I live in Northern New England and we’re next in line for the next big snow storm! So, when I heard Bahamas and Cruise all in the same sentence, I actually entertained the idea of going! I had visions of warm, sandy beaches, fruity umbrella drinks, Coconut oil and bathing suites… But something kept telling me NO! I still had some questions that I need answers to! Here’s a sample of some questions I asked & answers I got:
Q: Once in the Bahamas, do I need to make hotel accommodations?
A: Yes and I can upgrade for an additional $250.00 to stay at the Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort.
**CCL is linked to Radisson, Alamo car rental, and Our Lucaya Resort, and uses these companies to accommodate the customers’ needs at a discount.
Q: Where do we depart from, which port?
A: Palm Beach, in South Florida.
Q: Are meals included?
A: Yes. All meals are included.
Q: Are beverages included?
A: Only coffee and tea are included. Any alcoholic beverages or soft drinks are extra $$.
Q: Is my credit card going to be charged today? (I asked several times)
A: No. The credit card will not be charged until I give a 60-Day notice prior to departing for the cruise. (He answered several times)
Q: Are there any black out dates?
A: Yes. From December 24-January 4, because of the holidays…
After I asked these questions and got these answers, I was told that I have 18 months to take advantage of this great offer! All I needed to do now was give my Credit Card number and Expiration. He asked if it was a Master Card or Visa I would be using today??? I didn’t feel comfortable giving out my Credit Card info just like that, I didn’t trust it, and I made that known. The travel agent said he understood. Then rambled on about how this CCL company has the seal of approval from Master Card and Visa, and was not going to jeopardize their relationship with them by committing fraudulent acts with my credit card numbers and how they don’t sell cruises, they give them away because they want people to have a good time and tell people about it! So I get a FREE cruise and they get free advertising! I still wasn’t buying it, or the cruise!
I asked him if I could think about it, talk it over with my boyfriend, and call back. He told me no. “This is a special, promotional, one-time offer, only good for NOW. Once I hang up and call back, I would have to be charged full retail price of the cruise and not the special promotional rate.” Well my boyfriend was sitting right next to me. This travel agent person was kind enough to patiently wait while I spoke briefly to my boyfriend. My boyfriend said firmly, “No, don’t do it!”
At this point I had been on the phone for over a half an hour and I told the young man that I was not interested in the cruise. He insisted that I was interested, because I had been on the phone for so long and asked so many questions. He assured me that this is a one time deal, only good for NOW, and I won’t have another opportunity like this again.
I asked exactly how much was I going to be charged after everything is all said and done? The young man said well, $650.00 will be charged today, and $118.00 will be “diverted” to pay for the port fees. So, red flags started going up. We went from paying just $118.00 for port fees to $650.00 for… what? I asked what the extra charges were for. He said they were to pay for the extended stay package. I don’t remember ordering an extended stay package at any point during the conversation. I didn’t want that! I was told that if I did not purchase the extended stay package then I couldn’t get the special offer for the hotel accommodations at the Our Lucaya Resort & Golf Course, and I could just stay on the “ship” in my cabin. So this goes back to question 1… I didn’t have to make hotel arrangements, it was optional and comes with a marked up price tag. Oh, and the $118.00 is due NOW to pay for port fees. He asked me again for my Credit Card numbers, expiration date, and is it Master Card or Visa.
During our conversation, I asked many times if my Credit Card was going to be charged. I was told many times no, not until I give a 60-Day notice prior to departure. Now the $118.00 is due now, in full?!
I already knew that my Credit Card is linked directly to my bank account and I knew how much was in there. I also know that I have been out of work on a Medical Leave of Absence for the past 4 weeks and have no income from my job. I also know that I am a single Mom raising two kids and Christmas is right around the corner. I explained to the young man all this and if I charge $118.00 to my account right now, it would be irresponsible of me to do as a parent. I realize that under normal circumstances $118.00 isn’t a lot, but I can’t afford to lose that right now, that is why I had been asking all through the conversation, “Is my card going to be charged today?”
I soon found out that it would have been, it was just a matter of how much would be charged… $118.00, $650.00, how much? I couldn’t get simple, straight answers from these people. He was very vague when he answered my questions and contradicted himself on several occasions.
He extended a “special courtesy” and did a “special favor” by giving me his direct number, his hours of availability, told me to call back when I had the funds available, said thanks and enjoy the rest of my day.
I didn’t actually purchase a “cruise” and I didn’t allow them to charge my card because I was too afraid… It didn’t feel right! I am glad that I didn’t do it. I got curious about this company and for some reason I began doing a lot of research and I have read hundreds of reviews and seen many photos of this boat they are disguising as a luxury ocean liner, and it’s nothing more than an old converted ferry boat.
The number I got was 1-888-456-0505 for CCL. The direct line to the Senior Travel Agent was 1-888-333-1180. I also got a website to visit to check things out.
http://www.grandcaribbeancl.com/
My advice to you all is this: Do your research like I did, before you give out any Credit Card information, not after. But, things happen and people do make mistakes. When that happens, contact your Credit Card company or bank first to resolve the problem, instead of calling this company. You’ll get a full refund from this company when hell freezes over! Call the Credit Card company or bank that issued your card, they will be more likely to help you get a refund or stop the payment, if it’s early enough. Good luck to you all!
Also this was found on the Bahama Celebration registration form (at the very very bottom in little tiny fine print, so you can’t read it) to claim a FREE cruise…
*Traveler responsible for port taxes of $59 per person, gratuities, incidentals, transportation to and from award destination. The Bahamas Celebration reserves the right to charge an additional fuel supplement of up to $9.00 per person per day on all passengers, to be collected at time of embarkation without prior notice, in the event that the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange Index) is greater than $40.00 per barrel of oil. Limit one cruise per household and family. BY ENTERING THIS PROMOTION YOU EXPRESSLY REQUEST A RETURN TELEPHONE CALL FROM CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINE (CRC) AND AGREE THAT CRC MAY CONTACT YOU BY TELEPHONE, EMAIL, ELECTRONIC VOICEMAIL, OR MAIL FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROMOTING VARIOUS TRAVEL OFFERS. YOU EXPRESSLY WAIVE ALL FEDERAL AND STATE NO-CALL REGISTRY PROTECTIONS FOR THE PURPOSE OF FUTURE MARKETING BY CRC. Complete terms and conditions of offer available from CRC. Caribbean Cruise Line is not a participant in the California Travel Consumer Restitution Fund.
Thanks for the heads up, many people, no doubt, missed this.
Thank you very much for taking the time to post such a long and explanatory comment. I am very happy to hear that you haven’t been scammed by this company, and that your boyfriend was there to give very sage advice in your ear.
I am very curious what some of these other reviews are out there, I haven’t seen any photos of the actual cruise, but I’ve heard many stories. You may want to keep in mind that they will periodically call you back unless you explicitly say: “Please take me off your phone list.” I was called for weeks afterwards until I finally did this. Seems obvious after the fact. It was very hard to not let my emotions take me over.
I hope that you have a very merry Christmas, and your health returns, and one day you do indeed get to go on a luxury cruise! Good luck!
This is sad, but true. I worked for this awful company. And guess what? They didn’t even pay me! If you can imagine. I spent 8 hours a day working for them and after 2 weeks I couldn’t take it anymore and the terrible lies they fed people… for crying out loud their business cards are printed from one of those free business card websites- that should have been my first notice to stay away from these people. Not only do they steal people’s money, but they left me without a paycheck to take care of my family. They are liars and thieves and I feel sorry for anyone who would buy into such a scam. May they rot in HELL.
Wow, there you have it. From the mouths of an employee. Ashley, thank you very much for posting this. I think it’s safe to say now we have insider information and all is settled!
As for everybody that comes and reads this now, I hope you get to read this comment.
Hi,
I just got back from my cruise with on the Bahama celebration. I want to file a law suit against the company for selling things that fell through on my trip and being flat out lied to about what I purchased. Does anyone want to join me so we can file a class action law suit? I look forward to hearing from you guys soon. Reply to me directly @
derk.mat@gmail.com
Thank you,
Lets shut this business down!!!!
I will be contacting you shortly. I was wondering if somebody was going to start something.
Ashley,
Please contact me at
derk.mat@gmail.com. We can file a class action law suit against this company and get them for their illegal practices!!! I look forward to hearing from you soon.
This ship is a scam……..If you do book it and don’t upgrade, just go try and get your “voucher” coming from Orlando, they tell me I must go to Ft. Lauderdale to pick up the voucher. I said, mail it and I will pay postage. They said they can’t do that. What Bull. Just a ploy to get you to their headquarters to sell you their timeshare…………Not a good way to do business………STAY AWAY FROM THIS SCAM !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I couldn’t agree with you more Roger.
WOW !!!! IGOT SCAMMED…I NEVER had any scamhappen to me and was EXCITED to get acrise so CHEAP….Gave them my credit card#…THA..GOOGLED it and found your website!! Is there enen such a company?? Should Igo ahead and plan on the trip…or will there be NO BOAT??? HELP would be GREAT right now..any suggestions???? THANKS!! Paul
Thank u so much for your the insight. I was on the phone speaking with a lady and called my husband in on the conversation, he ask for the licensed so he could look it up on the better business bureau. thts when he found this site,and i hung up the phone. Thank u for the information.
I’m happy to hear this
I had this voucher you mentioned. I went on the cruise and had a great time.
I did not fill out a survey, I called their number from a TV ad, and verified with the cruise company themselves. And company you mentioned is a certified reseller for the cruiseline.
Dear John,
Although I doubt that you actually went on the cruise, and furthermore suspect you are a employee of the company, I hope that at least one person went on this and enjoyed themselves.
I cannot vouch for anybody else that has replied to this (which there are over 50) I just reported here what I dealt with and how un-satisfying the encounter was, and how unwilling the company was to satisfy me as a paying customer.
Furthermore, after the fact, they kept calling me asking if I would like to upgade my cruise, which I eventually ended by explaining to the person on the phone that I would like to be taken off any call lists, and please not to call me again, which I finally did meet some with some cooperation and they haven’t phone me since.
Sincerly doubtful,
KK
Dear John,
The only person on all of these comments to not leave a real email address is you.
If you read my initial post, I said that they called me, saying I entered into some draw, and won a free cruise. Free implies free, and I did not enter into any draw. Ok, fine I have to pay some port taxes and what not, sure I can handle a free cruise for $118, whatever. I mention on the phone I’m going to want to be taking this cruise at a specific date, cause I will be down there, and they say “Yes sir, there should be no problem with that, we sail year round.” So, after I pay my port taxes, I await my ‘package’ in the mail, but odly enough, I do not get one in the mail after a week and a half, so I call them back. This is when the hoop jumping begins, and after finally activating everything and getting my account setup, I finally get through to the booking department, and they say that the times I’m looking to sail at has been completely filled up in the class that I want to sail in, and I cannot go then unless I want to upgrade my package.
What my problem was with, and I stated this in my initial email, was that
a. It wasn’t a free cruise, which is the only reason why I even listened to them at the start.
b. They lied to me to get me to pay them the fee about being able to sail at that time.
c. When I wanted answers they sent me in loops I could not control.
d. When I finally told them I had had enough and wanted my money back, they beat around the bush, put me on with a ‘manager’ and tried to convince me for over half an hour that I shouldn’t do it.
e. After they had finished trying to convince me, I finally got to the answer that they could not refund me my money
f. When I initially payed over my money, they said everything was completely refundable, which they failed to mention that only within a few days I could get a refund, which coincidentally it takes more time to actually get the package that never came in the mail so I didn’t even have time to get the full information together to cancel it.
g. They kept phoning me for upwards of 4 months afterwards asking if I would like to upgrade.
Any one of these points should be enough to turn a person off.
Yes maybe everything fell into place for you, I am simply stating all the facts that happened in my experience, and you as a reader must take the initiative to realize whether or not you are willing to take this risk. As far as it goes for me, if I was getting called for something along these lines, and found someone out there tried to warn me about their experience with the cruise lines, I would learn from their mistakes.
I spent many days and hours with these people discussing the options I had available to me, and how much it would cost. I had spread sheets built up and compared it to other cruise lines, and after all was said and done, it totally wasn’t worth it.
With other more notorious cruise lines I have found that there are lots of websites forums that have customer feedback so you can read all about the cruise from their perspective, the boats are ranked in magazines, and websites, the prices in the end work out to nearly the same as an upgraded package, plus your not taking a cruise on a budget level cruise line.
Take if for what its worth. I’m happy to hear that you had a good experience with the cruise.
Haha! This “John” Must be the same “John Martin” – Processing Director that I just got off the phone with. After 51 minutes of wasting my time, BS-ing his way through, using all forms of psychology – pathos, ethos, logos – on me but still unable to convince me to buy his $648 package, he dared to accuse me and harass me! For all that are reading this, definitely a scam. Good thing I’m a smart consumer and gave them my debit ViSA gift card for which I had already used the full amount and a temporary address I am staying at (without the apt number of course). Haha, good luck trying to get some money out of me, Mr. John Martin, Processing Director. He even dared me to hang up! That pompidous ass!
For everyone who wants contact info to harass them or find out more, I spoke with their rep, Angela Radley, first, Corporate ID: KB1195. Phone number 1-888-333-1180. Then she had transferred me to rude Mr. John Martin. I had hung up after wasting almost an hour of my time being rudely harassed. I sincerely hope they get caught for scamming so many poor Americans. As if us poor Americans weren’t hurt enough by the housing bubble burst and economic downturn.
If anyone ever files a lawsuit against them, I’d be happy to contest as a witness. May God punish them for the terrible things they are doing to our poor Citizens.
HELP!!! THEY HAVE MY CREDIT CARD INFO…I already paid!!! WHAT CAN I DO??? THANKS SO MUCH FOR POSTING YOUR SITE…BEFORE I BUY MY AIRLINE TICKET TO FLORIDA!!
Paul, phone the credit card company ASAP. Cancel the payment, or the card, tell them the situation, hopefully it hasn’t gone through yet.
Yes there is a boat, but from what I’ve heard, and photos I’ve seen, its a made over ferry that offers very poor service.
Some people have successfully got the credit card companies to cancel the transaction, others have managed to get the credit card company to phone the numbers that they got for caribbean cruise line and go so frustrated they just gave them their money back like that.
GOod luck Paul!
same thing just happened to me.The girl told me I had to pay 118 immediatley… so I told them I would have to call back. My instincts told me to google it to see if it was a real cruise line or what the deal was. Glad i found this. They told me I filled out a ballot at the Beaches Jazz festival for a free cruise. Funny thing though — the guy asked me when the Jazz Festival was — hmm… like that doesnt tip you off to scam. LOL
The ONE difference I see between me and all the other people posting here. I saw a TV ad, and called the number. It seems all the people here have been approached in some way, where I initated contact. So maybe you are right. But do not make generalizations about a company, that may not even be the same one that I went through. Lets heqar from the people that replied to the TV ad.
Well, I saw that same said TV ad, too. That’s how I got “hooked” too. Haha! This “John” Must be the same “John Martin” – Processing Director that I just got off the phone with. After 51 minutes of wasting my time, BS-ing his way through, using all forms of psychology – pathos, ethos, logos – on me but still unable to convince me to buy his $648 package, he dared to accuse me and harass me! For all that are reading this, definitely a scam. Good thing I’m a smart consumer and gave them my debit ViSA gift card for which I had already used the full amount and a temporary address I am staying at (without the apt number of course). Haha, good luck trying to get some money out of me, Mr. John Martin, Processing Director. He even dared me to hang up! That pompidous ass!
For everyone who wants contact info to harass them or find out more, I spoke with their rep, Angela Radley, first, Corporate ID: KB1195. Phone number 1-888-333-1180. Then she had transferred me to rude Mr. John Martin. I had hung up after wasting almost an hour of my time being rudely harassed. I sincerely hope they get caught for scamming so many poor Americans. As if us poor Americans weren’t hurt enough by the housing bubble burst and economic downturn.
If anyone ever files a lawsuit against them, I’d be happy to contest as a witness. May God punish them for the terrible things they are doing to our poor Citizens.
I took the phone survey several months ago. It seemed too good to be true then, and I never followed up on contacting them to “reserve” my trip. These guys are persistent! I must have got half a dozen messages left on my voice mail over the last few months asking me to contact them for my free cruise. I ignored all of them. They finally got me on the phone today and made their pitch. I was told I needed to pay the $118 dollars today (because the response to this offer has been so great they couldn’t guarantee me a spot, otherwise!). I was thinking “Why have you been so desperate to contact me, then?” When I said I was suspicious, they gave me some email addresses to look at but didn’t want to get off the phone and let me call them back after I had done some research. By now my suspicions were confirmed, and I told them I wasn’t interested. I won’t be surprised if I get some more voice mails, though.
Carmine, I feel your pain. They kept contacting me for months afterwards, I’d get home and there would ALWAYS be a missed call from them. Nearly daily. Finally I was home, and asked them to stop phoning me, and to take me off of their phone lists. I would not hang up until they did, and I also explained to them my situation, and that I was not pleased or happy at all.
I haven’t heard from them since.
Hey John, your name is John Bearden and your corporate ID number is KB3359. You are definately a employee of this scam.
Is the job market that bad out there that you will resort to swindle people out of their money for a dream cruise that will never happen?
Phil,
I am highly skeptical as you are, but I think by mere numbers of responses and thank you’s I’ve received on this site, from people reporting the exact same swindles as me, there is no further need to discuss anything with Mr. John of noreply@ email, who claims its a legit email.
This is not a place to slander each other, this is only a place to lay down the facts. If you would like to create a blog to discuss your side of the story in great detail explaining how much fun you had on the cruise, then by all means go for it. If you would like to create a blog for how much you hate the company for swindling you out of $119 and then having to nerve to ask you for more money, then join me in the campaign to see this company taken off the map completely by eliminating all their business through advertising how misleading and un-professional they are.
Dear Phil,
You are wrong I do not work for any travel agency, aor cruiseline. And as for guessing my lifesytle get facts before slandering a person. I run my own business in Illinois. As stated I am trying to bring a positive note to a negative conversation. There are always two sides to a story, and I am telling mine. If you think I am wrong the prove it. Most of you got email offers, or did a bogus survey. I went through a TV ad that if I remember right was on ABC or another major network. These people check these ads out before airing them. I was unsure myself,I called the actual cruise line that the cruise was on (
http://www.celebration-cruise-line.com/). I was told the company offering the free cruise was an official reseller of their company. Once you pay the taxes you are given the web address to manage your reservation (123gocruise.com). They were very open with me. Did not bug me like I have read here. But they did try to upsell me on other packages (a normal sales tactic)
dude, a little skepicism up front will serve you well. You don’t get something for nothing. I heard about this when i called a 800 to vote on the Ed Show’s question of the day. When they said, ‘stay on for a free cruise’ I said to myself, ‘ok let me have some fun with this’. So I answered the guys questions and got to the part where he stated you need a least two people. I said, ‘Ok how about I take you ?’ “I am as queer as a $4 bill’ to which he laughed and hung up. The reason these scams stay around is because there are fools that think you get something for nothing. Barnum was sooo right.
haha, thats funny. Thank you for sharing your experience. This feels like a bloody support group!
Thanks a lot for this, I appreciate the info
Wow!! The same just happened with me last night! I got the ‘Free Cruise’ offer in the mail and called their 800 number out of mere curiosity than anything else. The guy on the other end immeditely started his sales pitch and I have had the painful experience dealing with a car salesman of the same cadre not too long ago. While it put me off, I wanted to know what the whole ‘Free Cruise’ was all about. Soon I had to curtail his questions of what my phone number was, whether I was married, etc by just asking him to tell me what this was about rather than asking me more questions. He then put on his manager who almost restated all the ‘awesomeness’ of their cruise once more and gave me a couple more Mexico/Vegas packages as bonus!! By the time I was convinced not to deal with these people anymore even if they were legit. When he started pressurizing me to pay the taxes and fess right then and there, I just said No and hung up.
It looks like many people had had horrible experience with these guys, I read somewhere else their crusie ships were remodelled ferries or so; Happy that I am never going to find that out first hand!
agreed Deep.
I had the same call just now. The free cruise draw I entered was supposedly at a local music festival (but the city was wrong). This festival has two acts every week all summer. I went twice this year and NEVER entered a draw. I asked the swindler on the phone what date the draw was held and he laughed saying there was no way to know this. The first guy I spoke with – Mike (corp ID 2775) – was nice enough but when I said I was not going to give them my credit card info he put me onto the boss who was pushy and at the end of our 3 min conversation, quite rude. I recall this same tactic when my bf and I sat through a timeshare talk (actually to upgrade the one my bf already has). If the first guy does not succeed, he gets ‘The Bully’ to get a little mean with you. Luckily, I felt scam all over the call (and the timeshare incident from last year) and after hanging up on the second guy, I looked up the scam and found this site. Thanks for sharing your story. Hopefully no one else will fall for it. Remember folks: NOTHING IS FREE! And, if you do enter a draw, you normally get the prize no questions asked. Be careful out there!
I totally agree Ramona. Its never free, and most things are to good to be true.
I just had the same scammers call me.
They got my contact information from a Jazz Festival in town. I had entered a ballot for a free car. So, when they called and told me I won, I actually believe them for a minute. It came pretty obvious when they tried to force me to pay the port tax on the spot ($118). As a general rule, I refuse any pressure sales tactics because they are usually a scam of some sort. I told them that they could either call me back (so I would have time to think) or forget about it entirely. There was no way I was paying that without checking if this was a scam. She then promptly told me she would call back… we’ll see if she actually does. If she does, I’ll let her known has pissed off everyone is.
Thank you for putting this blog up!! Definitely saved me more than a few hundred dollars.
Just got the same call. Makes me want to never fill out anything (sweepstakes) because I feel like my information will be sold to scammers like these. I am happy I didn’t fall into the trap. I had an eerie feeling that it was a scam but part of me really wanted to go on the cruise too. Luckily I am waiting on a job opportunity that might take me overseas for a couple of years so I told “Lance Umansky” that I couldn’t go because I might be out of the country for a few years. Thank God, he let me off and then I immediately came and found your site – lo and behold my instincts were right -scammers. I feel bad for Lance and other people that work for this company because they are only working to make a living… but at the same time it makes me angry that they are scamming people.
Thats why these people are successful, because they play that card where they suck people in because its something they really want to be true.
ok, you guys are scaring me, we are planning going 5-2011 and i have checked them out and they seemed legit, has anyone gone and had fun
Joan, Yes I took the cruise (I seen the ad on TV, rather than signing up at some event). It is a fun cruise, and I hope you enjoy your cruise. The company I went through is a good company.
thanks, i was getting a little nervous about all this, we are adding on the 2 extra days in the Bahamas at Our Lucaya where we have stayed before, it’s either a 4 or 5 star resort and loved it and the town, we had such fun so i couldn’t believe all the negative things written,thanks for this
I wish you luck Joan, and I hope you have fun, although i’m sure you understand now that it is no longer a free cruise since you’ve had to fork over more money now to get the extra two days. Something that I ran into when I wanted to book my cruise, and it turned out that the only way that I could get the days I wanted was that I upgrade the package (ie. forking over more money) Good luck and I hope to hear how it went.
Sorry for the inevitable language. TV add my a**. This “John” must be the same “John Martin” – Processing Director that I just got off the phone with. After 51 minutes of wasting my time, BS-ing his way through, using all forms of psychology – pathos, ethos, logos – on me but still unable to convince me to buy his $648 package, he dared to accuse me and harass me! For all that are reading this, definitely a scam. Good thing I’m a smart consumer and gave them my debit ViSA gift card for which I had already used the full amount and a temporary address I am staying at (without the apt number of course). Haha, good luck trying to get some money out of me, Mr. John Martin, Processing Director. He even dared me to hang up! That pompidous ass!
For everyone who wants contact info to harass them or find out more, I spoke with their rep, Angela Radley, first, Corporate ID: KB1195. Phone number 1-888-333-1180. Then she had transferred me to rude Mr. John Martin. I had hung up after wasting almost an hour of my time being rudely harassed. I sincerely hope they get caught for scamming so many poor Americans. As if us poor Americans weren’t hurt enough by the housing bubble burst and economic downturn.
If anyone ever files a lawsuit against them, I’d be happy to contest as a witness. May God punish them for the terrible things they are doing to our poor Citizens.
Hey Anna,
Thanks for your comments and input. The data you have provided will most definately trigger a few more peoples searches and help them find this warning to hopefully let them not get tricked by these people at Caribbean Cruise Lines.
I removed a few of your posts just because they were the same thing, I hope that doesn’t upset you.
Thanks again,
KK.
Joan, my husband and I just went Dec 13-17 and had a great time (we were supposed to fly from Chicago to FL Sunday the 12th, but our flight was canceled and we had to reschedule for Monday night). We bought the 2 nights at Our Lucaya, which is a lovely resort. The ship is older and small compared to others, but it was clean and the staff were very accommodating. Our package included the car rental (compact, but we were upgraded at no additional cost to an economy), 2 nights before the cruise at Vacation Village in Ft Lauderdale (actually Weston, which is a resort community there), and 2 nights on the ship (to and from Palm Beach/Bahamas). It also included an additional night at Vacation Village after the cruise, but we took a pass on that and flew back Saturday night instead of Sunday.
You do need to be aware of the various fees and gratuities that are added for the cruise and car, plus the bus ride to and from the ship/hotel ($17 per person), but all this is on the paperwork in your package, so read it carefully. At Our Lucaya, we got upgraded to an ocean view for no additional charge.
I was angry that my husband booked the trip, as I was not looking forward to listening to a timeshare sales pitch, but in the end I’m glad we went. Even the timeshare pitch was enjoyable because 1) we had all day to kill before our evening flight and there was nothing better to do b/c it rained all day anyway; 2) our salesman was the pick of the litter… very funny and entertaining, and not pushy like the others (and they are indeed VERY pushy. The supervisor was downright rude). Our rep could tell from the beginning that he was not going to close the deal, so we all made the best of it and actually had fun and took advantage of the free buffet-style sandwich/chips/salad lunch.
Like you, I started to panic when I started researching everything, but since the trip was already booked, I just had to hope we would be one of the lucky ones who didn’t get screwed. Although I am disgusted with their tactics and the way they take advantage of people, it worked out fine for us. Now I’m just waiting to see if our credit card charges equal our receipts (read: make sure those upgrades were actually at no extra charge). I’ll post back on that next month.
Thanks Cathy for the post…..I am in the same situation…booked the package this time in the context of doing a phone survey…paid $650 fo rthe package….now I am in panic mode of whether just stomp myself and forget about the money paid, or actually trying to book and make the trip and try to have some fun, if at all, on this. Certainly would not have booked if I had read any of the many many posts here and researched over the net a bit.
Want to hear more from people who ended up making the trip…can it still be fun. My thinking now is…lower my girl friend’s expectations to absolute minimum and hope she will still be my girl friend at the end fo this trip (finger crossed).
UPDATE: Thankfully, our credit card has no additional charges for the unexpected upgrades we received (i.e., rental car and ocean-view room at Our Lucaya). I think those upgrades were provided simply b/c it was so close to Christmas and perhaps a “slow” period for them.
Regarding the cruise ship, I would like to add that my husband and I took the vacation to relax, so we weren’t looking to participate in a lot of activities. We were given a total of $60 in “match money” for the ship’s casino, which means we get the $60 from them only if we put in $60 of our own, and they are good only for table games, not slot machines. My husband played Blackjack, and was able to turn the $60 in vouchers into cash for us, which is the equivalent of breaking even if the entire $120 had been out of our pocket.
Be aware that your dinner reservations will have to be made when you board the ship. They have a small Italian, cafeteria-style restaurant, which is open from dinner until 3am, I think. No reservation required for that. The Crystal Dining Room requires a reservation and “smart casual” dress (shirt w/ collar, no shorts or flipflops). Rios is casual dress. They sit you down and serve your main course, but you go to the buffet for your side dishes and dessert. The food there was pretty good if you like meat. It’s Brazilian style; the wait staff go table-to-table with various meat offerings on a skewer. This is in addition to your entree. Breakfast is served there as well, and that food was average. The Cove is more formal attire, and dinner there is not free. We didn’t eat there, so I can’t comment on the quality.
Keep in mind that this is not a luxury cruise. As I said in my earlier post, the ship is small, but clean, and the staff are very nice and accommodating (I got extra pillows, no problem). The electrical outlets are European, so you may need an adapter (they were loaning them out at the service desk, but we didn’t need one). The pool is small, so if your vacation is extended and you like to swim, you might want to spend the majority of your time off the ship. I must say that we were pleasantly surprised with our cabin. We had a comfortable queen bed and 2 portholes. The cabin & bath weren’t any smaller than our Royal Caribbean cruise from LA to Mexico a few years ago. And that cabin didn’t have any windows.
We did speak briefly with 2 other couples who were on the cruise via the time share pitch. They said the presentation was long and the sales staff were very pushy, but they were having a blast on the ship and thought the experience was totally worth it. I talked with another woman who actually purchased the time share, and she was very happy with the cruise and couldn’t wait to get to the Bahamas. We didn’t see anyone who didn’t seem to be enjoying themselves.
We arrived in Ft Lauderdale very late (12:30am) Monday night b/c of our flight cancellation Sunday. The cruise set sail on Tuesday. We had called ahead about the delay, so we were able to check in to Vacation Village (VV) w/o our voucher. This was not a hotel room, but a condo that was comfortable but showing its age. Being a condo, there was no coffee provided in the room as there probably would have been if it were a hotel, although there was a coffee maker in the kitchenette. All we did was crash for the night b/c we had to get to the Welcome Center the next morning to get our vouchers for the condo (they faxed it for us so we didn’t have to drive back to VV) and the cruise and Our Lucaya vouchers. Since we arrived too late for the time share presentation, we had to leave a $40 deposit in order to receive the vouchers, with the promise that our money would be refunded when we attended the presentation upon our return Saturday. Our flight wasn’t scheduled until Sat. evening; we had to debark the boat around 9am. I don’t know what they would have done if we had an early flight.
The timeshare pitch took 3 hours, and we had to go through our rep, then his supervisor, then a woman who signed off on our paperwork to get the refund, then another woman at the desk where we actually got our $40 back. Actually, we didn’t have to even subject ourselves to any of it b/c IL and CA residents are exempt. Our rep was so cool, he even told us that, although we knew it already. But as I said, it was raining all day, and we had nothing better to do.
Here are the only complaints we had: It was cold when we arrived in FL, as well as the first night of the cruise, so the heat was on with no way to adjust it in our cabin. It was too hot, so we called and a maintenance guy was there within minutes. However, he explained that all he could do was close the ceiling vent. It helped only slightly. Our only other night on the ship was on the way back from the island to Palm Beach, and it had warmed up by then so the air was on and it was comfortable. Another complaint we had is that we were unable to get embark/debark times for the cruise. No matter who my husband talked to, they could/would not provide that information; thus the evening flight from FL back to Chicago. Also, no one could tell us what time we had to be at the Welcome Center to get our vouchers, so we just got up and on our way early. Oh, FYI, it’s about an hour’s drive from Ft Lauderdale to Palm Beach.
I’m sorry this post is so lengthy, but I want to provide at least a little relief for those of you who have already paid and are unable to obtain a refund. I was panicked myself, but my husband had received the offer in the mail and REALLY wanted to get away, so we just went with it and prayed for a good outcome. It will help if you are flexible about travel dates, but that wasn’t a problem for us.
Based on our previous cruise (Royal Caribbean), the fees, gratuities, and beverage charges seem pretty normal. Same for the excursion costs. You will be asked frequently (i.e., every time they walk by you in the lounges) if you would like a drink, but I don’t consider that “pushy.” And we weren’t expecting our flight expenses to be included, so that wasn’t a problem for us either.
I hope I have helped to put at least some of you somewhat at ease. Although the sales tactics are deplorable, the vacation itself was very pleasant and we have no regrets.
Wow, Cathy. Thank you so much for writing all this and letting us know what its like, although I must admit, anytime I hear stuff like this about the cruise, it reeks to me of an inside job. The way you covered up really bad things [like the fact that you didn't want to spend any time on the cruise ship cause it wasn't big (or I'm sure there were other reasons)] with two or three things unrelated to the actual cruise further amplified the skeptic in me.
Thank you very much though for taking the time to describe it in detail of what went on. I’m happy to hear you left with a smile And I truly appreciate the time it must have taken to write all that out.
Hi guys, just came upon this site. My mother just received this in the mail today. I really want to know whether or not it’s legit. I called the website, talked to Bill, who explained to me the entire package deal. How I would only be responsible for my travel to Ft. Lauderdale and the $118 port fees. Is that the only expense that comes out of my pocket if I only take the two day cruise? assuming I don’t order fancy drinks/gamble/etc. Are there any hidden fees or is it just $118 for the entire trip and travel expense to/from Fort Lauderdale? Most people are saying this is a scam while some people have had wonderful experiences..could someone please let me know? I appreciate all your help. Thanks.
Mary, be warned that the only way that I was offered the days I wanted was to upgrade my package. Which in the end, to get a legit company with reputation for being good and many testimonies about how good the cruises are, without all the question marks, turns out to only be a hundred or so dollars more to go on a cruise.
Please note that it is only one fellow, Mr John, that has had any experience with this cruise, and its highly speculated that he actually works on the cruise line for his persistence to make a good name for this company. Very very curious indeed.
Please be warned now, and I would like to hear of your decision in the future.
thank god i found this post.. i was going to do some research on this whole thing sounded a lil odd when i spoke to the guy.. i received in the mail a cruise line voucher and a travel voucher. the 118 dollar fee was no big deal to me until he said “you have to pay for your gambeling fees and your alcohol assumption” ha forget that.. the whole time he was talking to me he kept repeating his workers number i guess i should have written that down. he told me that this wasnt no scam (like i beleived him) he told me everything was real because they sent it first class but as i looked at the envelope it wasnt first class the guy kept tellin me it was but whatever.. later he asked me to mail him my birth certificate and a valid id so they can make me a passport.. that was definately not going to happen.. something is starting to smell extremely fishy.. at the end of him tryin to get me to go he asked my credit card info i told him i dont own a credit card he asked me can i go borrow one from someone. are you freaking nuts???? hell no i cant borrow a credit card for 118 dollars. finally mr tom hung up on me 10 mins later called me back saying we got disconnected and kept asking me top borrow someones credit card.. should have known it was too good to be true nothing in life is ever free.
Thanks to Kingkabuz for giving us a place to warn others about the business dealings attached to the “free cruise”. Information I had was Travel Services at 800-221-8200.
My story is almost verbatim what others have already posted. One thing I will say though is that I questioned them thoroughly and said no to every package they offered stating that I can get better deal on my own. I told them I only wanted a free cruise and that if I paid the taxes, gratuity, and boarding fee there would be nothing else I was willing to spend to get this “free” cruise which wasn’t free already. I wanted to arrange air travel, hotel, and rental car fees on my own. Well, they seemed dead-set that this could not happen. Read on and tell me if you think they were trying to dictate what I “would do” or not. I mean, they even insisted I was flying in to Ft. Lauderdale when I was adamant that I had free place to stay elsewhere!
When I said “no” to every offer that 3 people went through and tried to up-sell me on, the last guy got frustrated and said he could go ahead and cancel the cruise and I can forget about the vacation (take-away sales technique) I said fine, that is no problem there are many other offers out there and all I wanted was for them to be clear with me and send me paperwork outlining what their deals were so I could compare them with others. I made sure they knew that I was not purchasing any package deals in advance without seeing the offer in writing and having a chance to explore alternatives. They did not want to extend the cruise to me if I did not sign up for and pay in advance one of their “package deals” and argued with me that there would be nothing better out there and I would need to make arrangements anyway so I should sign up with them. It was a very circular conversation.
My impression based on how I was treated is that this company markets the cruises to lure people in and then only books people who actually purchase a package deal with them. I say this since they volunteered to cancel my cruise reservation because I said no and did not want to hear any more pitches and requested instead that they send information to me to review and make a decision on later. I am content to be done with this company and their offerings regardless.
I am an employee of caribbean cruise line. No I’m not giving my real name or email for obvious reasons. A friend left this on my computer when I had let him borrow it. I have been reading through most of what everyone has written and I am surprised.
The ship is real. The deal is real. Yes, it is $59 per person based on two people. 3rd and 4th are $129 for 13 and up and $99 for 12 and under. Yes, we do try and sell you the extened stay package for obvious reasons, the tour. You do save 75% off retail when you get the extened stay. I hear alot of the concerns are because the rep. you deal with is giving you bad advice. Everyone is saying that they don’t get the package in the mail quick enough. Itdoes take 14-21 days to be printed and mailed. You do have access to it on line within 72 business hours. You have 1 week to cancel it from the time it becomes availabe on line. Not from the time you book it. Also, the agent is suppose to tell you that we ask for a 30-60 day notice when booking you trip. We are booked already for Sept. and most of Oct. already! That’s one of the reasons we give you 18months.
Yes, there are bad sales people as well as uninformed ones. I do work at the corperate office. I have worked at a satelite office before and I hate to say it, but they don’t have the same standards as corperate does. I take anything I do serious and do stand behind what we do(at corperate). I have even given my personal cell phone # to a customer before. No, she to this day has not called. If she ever did, I would do every thing in my power to take care of her concerns.
Please keep in mind that we do sail between 2000-3000 people every other day out of the Port of Palm Beach. We must be doing something right if we are still booking people almost 2months in advance, plus it’s slow season. Sorry for all the people who feel that they got a bad deal. Maybe one day I will be talking to one of you on the phone. I don’t lie to my customers. With the world in such a “sue happy” mode, it’s not worth it. REMEMBER, IT’S NOT JUST A CRUISE; IT’S A CELEBRATION! P.S. Don’tbother asking me any questions. I’m notgoing to get into a arguing match with anyone. Life is too short.
perhaps people use legitimate companies like yours to scam people of their money so the company gets a bad rep.
I’m not sure I understand what you mean here.. Are you referring to me, King Kabuz, as the company scamming people of money? Because I make no profit from this article you see here. Furthermore, if I am a legitimate company, as you start off saying, I wouldn’t be scamming people, and vice-versa.
Please clarify what your saying here.
Your article about this was awesome! I went ahead and took that stupid survey over the phone and said I was interested in hearing about the cruise. When they called me and explained everything to me about the SS Bahama Celebration, I though, “hmm let me search for that on the internet while they’re talking and see what it looks like.” The first thing that popped up was how it is a giant scam!! I told him..”Well I’m a little unsure about this… I tried to take a look at the ship and all I’m seeing are posts that what you’re trying to sell me is a scam”. I used my sweetest voice ever and he got immediately upset and explained that people give them false credit accounts to pay for their $118 charge and how we are all ignorant. He told me to go to numerous websites that were “legit” and I sweetly said, “I don’t know…I’m seeing more scam websites than actual information on the cruise line. Before he hung up on me he said, “Fine, if you want to be like that, I will pass your deal onto someone else.” My daddy always said, nothing comes for free! This SS Bahama business is a giant hoax!
It may not be a hoax, for they may actually give a cruise, who knows I haven’t seen pictures. But, it is definately not free, its just a tricky way to get you to sign up for a cruise, which is why I wrote the article in the first place. They say its free, then tack on all these charges that soon it becomes a trip that you probably would have spent a few days researching all the comparable companies to find which one had that best reviews, and going with that one…
At least any smart consumer would do this.
Glad I found your blog, got me motivated again to get mine going!
i just got a voucher in the mail of the same thing. thank god you had something online because they did the same things to me. sometimes there’s just no such thing as free.
Thank you because the same company contacted me last night with the very scam..the carmen electra spokesperson; the 59 dollars and the free cruise on ssbahama celebration. Luckily for me my pay was not on my visa which the person told me didn’t matter I can still receive my package if the transaction didn’t clear my account. Now this is when I took control of the conversation and told her I was not giving the card number knowing it would be insufficient charges on my account. Thank you again because she gave me her number to call when the pay came in Her name is Ebony Chambers and her #954-630-9449 X4135. Now if she was scamming shame on her but if she is legit then I just gave her alot of new business.
It makes me very happy that you are finding my post and being saved from the scam of Caribbean Cruise Line. What you claimed is exactly what I’ve experienced. Wish I could take them down! Saved them from two customers at least now!
glad i saw your website you kept me from making the same mistake
I knew when I got this call, that it did seem a bit fishy, however, one thing really kept me on edge.
A few weeks ago was the AutoShow 2010 at the Metro Toronto Convention Center, and I did enter many contests to win cars and what not, and one of them being a trip.
They stated in the phone conversation that I have entered a ballot at the AutoShow and was selected.
So now I’m quite confused here, I’m still leaning towards scammer, but there’s always that ‘What If’.
I asked one of my friends, and they said that they could of taken my information and sold it to scammers when I entered the ballot, but that doesn’t really make much sense to me; something so big like the Autoshow, scamming people like that?
Well, I didn’t stay on the phone with the guy for long, I told him I was busy and didn’t have my credit card on me (plus, didn’t have $600 available on it (they said $299 per person))… oh, and the trip was valued at $2500…
So the guy said he will call back at 8… which is in 2 hours from now.
I will try to grind him down to a pebble to find out whats going on.
Thank you for all that info, it really help,
sorry to double post like this, but I also gotta add, along with the Caribbeancl.com site he gave me, he also said to check out bahamascelebration.com
Sam Congdon is the offshore promoter that has scammed people in the past and provided client records to the IRS and U.S. Senate Finance Committee in exchange for immunity. His companies, Rockford Global Solutions and Equity Development Group are still operating so do not get involved with these companies unless you want trouble with legal authorities or to do jail time.
I also received this offer in the mail, and I gave them my debit card number thinking that I was going to lose the “deal” if I didn’t do it right away. I refused to pay the full 800 dollars without researching them. So, I agreed to pay $174 and six payments of $88 dollars. After I got off the phone with them I began doing my research and found several complaints, I immediately went to my bank and closed my account and opened a new one. They’re not getting any more money from me, I tried to call them, but never got an answer. Thank God I found this before I continued payments!
I was contacted by a survey company (presumably the same one!)and have had literally the IDENTICAL experience. The Cruise line called me about an hour ago and gave me all sorts of wonderful options. I wasn’t ready to commit yet, but they insisted that it was a “one time only” offer and that I couldn’t call back, but they held while I spoke with my fiance on my other phone. (Thank God for cell phones–otherwise, I would have probably just jumped into it!)My fiance expressed concern at the validity of the whole thing, but I assured him that I had asked every question possible, etc. It had crossed my mind that this was a scam, but I was pretty thorough with my questions and felt pretty good about it all.
I called my fiance a second time when I was debating on whether or not to take the offer for the extended package (now I think how silly I was to even consider it…) and after getting off the phone with him, (and while still on the phone with the company) I decided to do a quick Google search of hoaxes with Caribbean Cruises and surveys; I had JUST given the guy my credit card information when I stumbled across your page. I read it a bit as he was telling me about other offers, and asked him to please hold for a moment (so I could concentrate and read the rest of what you wrote). I’m not proud of this, but I got back on the phone and lied and told him there was a family emergency, and I was not able to complete the agreement at this time. I got off the phone with them and immediately called my bank to cancel my current card, just to make sure that the payment wasn’t put through (even though per the phone conversation, it wasn’t agreed upon yet).
So, I’m writing to thank you for outlining your situation with so much detail–because of your post, you saved me from wasting a whole lot of money and from being completely cheated.
With many thanks,
I am happy that my post has saved all of you from being scammed, I’m just curious how many more people get scammed.
I sent them an email, and contacted the BBB about them, and stated that I would be blogging and spreading the word to get people aware of the company if they didn’t refund my money, and no reply from either. This kind of makes me sad, cause the BBB is supposed to be there for this kind of thing, but allowed me to inform everyone about their illegitimate business.
Hi,
I just found your post regarding the scam … I was just contacted today and figured why not do the survey just to see what happens. We just returned from a vacation in sunny Florida last night (live in canada so its darn cold here right now!) and figured another trip would be great. Did the website thing, got the certificate and will be waiting for my phone call. I will not give these guys the time of day when they call, but will be sure to tell them to take me off their calling list (even though it doesn’t seem to help!) Thank you posting your experience.
Always a pleasure Pam, I hope it is a lesson as well as a warning to be wary of giving away information freely at the drop of a hat for a good thing. Should we be as skeptical of such a situation? Will we miss out on an awesome opportunity? It is tough to say. I’m not worried personally.
March 11, 2010 I have just hung up the phone in speaking with Roger Bash @ the above said cruise line. Everything mentioned above verbaten just happened to me. Thank God my girlfriend brought up this website (letter) which lead me to believe this was happening to me!! He was getting madder the more questions I asked, and the more I stalled.
Thank you, I am much relieved now!!
Ryan
very glad to have helped you out Makes me happy that people are being saved from these people!! and not be a dumbass like myself!
haha.
@ryan – September 16, 2009 … I JUST got off the phone with these nitwits… and I think i was talking to the exact same guy you were! Except his name was Roger Thatch (and I asked him to say and spell his last name… but “Bash” and “Thatch” may sound the same over the phone). Anyway, he was also getting more and more defensive the more questions I asked. And I told him that I was going to call Caribbean Cruise Lines themselves and confirm that he is who he says he is. I don’t think he liked that too much.
BIG NOTE: Winning anything means just that — you WON… and you shouldn’t have to pay anything extra, or give out your financial information over the phone / over the internet. So if anyone asks you for anything extra, you KNOW it’s a scam…
Hmmm…Carmen Electra huh? My husband and I just saw the commercial tonight with her endorsing this “free cruise”. I immediately thought too good to be true, but then thought maybe since there is a celebrity endorsing it.
We actually were considering doing it, and I stumbled upon your article while searching to see if this free cruise was legit. Thanks for the info. We don’t have money and time to blow. Sorry you had a headache with all of this, but it was not in vain. We will definitely not be pursuing this cruise.
And just an fyi, what you would have paid in the end, is what people pay for typical 4 day cruises…no money saving here. I’m better off just calling within 30 days of when I want to go. You can get cruises and air tickets super cheap b/c they want it to be full. Better some money than no money with empty seats and cabins.
Thanks a bunch, you saved me the hassel!
I completely agree with you, my folks ended up getting a cruise for us, that was on a much bigger/better boat, went to cooler places, and lasted 7 days for the price I was going to have to pay.
Hi,
Have you contacted the BBB, they are under many names, and a lot of times they don’t even respond to the claims. I recently filed my compliant and wondering when they typically respond back?
Yes, I’ve contacted the BBB, well over a month ago, at the time of the incident, and I haven’t heard a lick from them. I should follow up if I had any sense in me. Indeed, maybe I will!
Today I got a phone call saying that I won a free cruise from the Home Show, I figured it was too good to be true. So I went online and saw this blog, as soon as they stated talking about carmen electra I knew it was this scam. The phone number was 1-800-417-9257. And when they asked for my credit card number I said no thank you. Thanks for this blog, it saved me from a scam.
Hi. I just want to say that it was a nice reading. I hope you come out with more interesting posts, because I bookmarked your website. All the best.
The fact that he is too scared to clarify shows that he is lying through his teeth. Geez, how hard is it nowadays to lie on the internet? Easier than saying “1, 2, 3″. But to get thousands of people agreeing on the same blog about the same scam and only one “John” saying it is legit? Harder than winning the lottery, especially considering how many blogs there are out there on the internet. I wouldn’t be surprised if this “John” and this “employee who shall not reveal his identity” was the owner of the scam himself.
I hope you enjoy a horrible death enjoying millions of poor American’s money you just swindled away.
HI:
I just recieved this voucher in the mail as well. Thanks King Kabuz for this! If this person really works for the cruise line she/he is being very unprofessional and childish in her/his response to this. People don’t like to be given misleading information. Can you honetly blame people for being sketchy? Everyone has similar stories. People on Yahoo answers share the same stories as well. If this is legit maybe the voucher should be a little more specific, and the employees need some education on people skills. I will be throwing this in the trash
Yes, thanks for posting your experience related to this scam. I was upset after the way these guys tried to prey on me and so it was comforting to see all the posts here – opposed to the way the sales people shoveling this scam made us feel, we are not a bunch of crazy, masochistic losers who “don’t want a cruise”.
It should be noted that I don’t even think a cruise line called “Caribbean Cruise Line” exists at least they certainly don’t appear to be a legit company. First, no one should ever have to pay for anything that has been “won”. This was probably my third clue following two other subtle clues related to lack of professional manner. Second, I don’t believe a cruise line would require you to pay port taxes prior to booking your reservation and I don’t believe these fees are paid directly to the cruise line. A cruise or travel agent probably has their guests complete a special government form while on board and pay directly to a separate, government entity. On another website I read these guys actually tried to take additional $350 money for airfare when the potential victim of the scam said the $600 airfare to FL would be too expensive for her. I hope others will have the same light bulb reaction as she did after such lies “I knew that was it” and hang up the phone.
Does anyone know… Is Carmen Electra really associated with them?
What can we do?
I assume she shot those videos for them. I will guess she made a deal of some sort.
So glad I came across you’re blog! I entered a lot of contests over the summer so I thought that they were calling about one of those ballots I filled out. I received a message on my voicemail that sounded too rehearsed to be from a real person but I was given a number to call which said their hours were like 10am-10pm Mon-Fri so I called on a Friday in the afternoon and got a message saying I would need to call during their office hours which is stupid since I did. An actual person should have answered the phone since I called during their business hours. That was another thing that made me suspicious.
I HAVE THE SAME PACKAGE BUT GOOD NEWS!!!! NO PROBLEMS AT ALL…ALTHOUGH, I BOOKED MINE CRUISE WELL IN ADVANCE AND HAD NO PROBLEM AT ALL GETTING THE DATES THAT I WANTED. ALSO, I HAD THE OPTION OF RECEIVING MY INFO BY MAIL OR ONLINE. I CHOSE TO DO IT ON LINE SO THAT I WOULD HAVE MORE CONTROL OF RECEIVING THE INFO. 3 DAYS AFTER PAYING THE $118, I WENT ONLINE, ENTERED MY RESERVATION # AND PASSCODE AND THERE IT WAS….JUST LIKE THEY SAID. I THEN CALLED THAT SAME DAY AND BOOKED MY CRUISE FOR MARCH NEXT YEAR (NO UPGRADES REQUIRED). MY GUESS IS THAT YOU’RE WAITING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO BOOK YOUR CRUISES. THE ONLY ADDITIONAL CHARGES THAT YOU NEED TO PREPARE FOR IS THE $24 PER PERSON GRATUITY THAT THEY WILL COLLECT FROM YOU AT THE TIME OF DEPARTURE AND THE $9 PER PERSON PER NIGHT OILD CHARGE ALSO AT TIME OF DEPARTURE.
BRING YOUR PASSPORTS!
YOU SEEM TO KNOW A LOT ABOOT THE FEES FOR A SOCCER MOM… SEEMS LIKE YOU’RE INTO PLANTS… AND YOU PROBABLY ARE 1.
Reply
They got me : ( I wish I would have had the time to read this email….but they didn’t give me the time! That should have been the first hint of a scam. Very clever scam I must say. : ( nothing in life is free hahaha.
And Lori (Sept 14th 2010) you *edited* I disagree *end edit* : ) do us all the favor or just me thx
Thanks for the post it seems like your saving everyone for the decisions we made : )
Like I said before, you would be surprised how understanding the credit card companies can be. Contest the charge and have them take up the fight.
Not that I disagree with you, but I talked to them and they said the only thing I could do was to go to the BBB and file a complaint, which I did, and I never received anything back from them. I wonder if it was because I was Canadian..
This being said, I highly encourage all and any of you to try any means possible to get your money back from this company, and as quickly as possible.
I went on the cruise, and it is not a scam.
Thank you…
Yeah right. You’re the same employee John from above. I recognize your BS.
For the last six months I’ve been witnessing online fallout from a corporate takeover of an annual (and formerly nonprofit) convention I’ve attended for years. The old staffers were kicked out or forced to resign. The attendees and former employees have taken to discussing it all on a third party forum. We’ve been dealing with a lot of apologist staffers in shoddy disguise like John here. I really wish people like him would learn to respect people’s intelligence. The obvious nature of their lie is downright insulting.
Melody said about a comment made by John B:
“Yeah right. You’re the same employee John from above. I recognize your BS.”
John B’s reply to Melody’s insult:
I am NOT an employee of the company. I run my own business for years. In fact I do security work. So do not insult me in this way. There are millions of people named John in the world. I have never said the people posting here are lyers. I am not sure what to think, since I took the cruise and had no problems. Yes they did try to upsell me some stuff, and I did not take any of it. IF you read my posts, you would see that I never entered contest, nor got the offer in the mail. I iniated the contact 100% with the company.
SO until you have 100% proof I work for the company (which I do not). Stop accusing me of such. I never said the people here are liers.
Yeah right. With your fake email address, you are ensuring that we will never have the evidence to prove you work for the company. You just want to swindle more people out of their poor bank accounts.
Thank you so much! I just received my “free” cruise for 2 in the mail and my free cruise voucher looked almost identical to the picture in your post. I asked my dad to look it over to see if it was a scam and he just advised that I google the company. When I did I found your blog and all the other people that have been scammed as well. I’m happy that you are warning others!
wow thanks for this! i received this in the mail today and actually thought it was legit, turns out its just one of those scams that come around!
thanks again for this post!
Sharing a post from ripoffreport.com posted 11/09…
I saw a commercial featuring Carmen Electra for Caribbean Cruise Lines advertising a free 2 night cruise to the Bahamas on their Bahamas Celebration ship. The commercial stated there were 500 free cruises to giveaway in my region and to go to their website immediately to claim one of these free cruises. I went to the website and filled out my basic info, this took me to another page that said I had qualified for the free cruise, it included a confirmation number and instructions to call 1-877-256-0219 ASAP to claim my cruise.
I called the number provided the person I spoke to seemed very friendly and polite. He gave me the details of the free cruise I would receive, round trip out of Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Nassau, Bahamas, docking near the Atlantis resort. He said all that was asked of me was a $59.00 per person port charge/docking fee, and I would have to pay my own airfare to FL. I would have 18 months to schedule my cruise. This seemed like a good, legit deal to me by the pitch he gave me over the phone. He then told me I could also add an extended stay in Florida before the trip and after the trip that included a rental car, and if I added this extended stay to the trip I would also be given two additional trips, one to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and one to Las Vegas, NV. I asked him if I had to add the extended stay and additional trips to get the free cruise and he said I did not. He told me for the free cruise I had to pay $118.00 for two people ($59.00 each) and asked for my credit card information, I told him I did not have the money to pay the $118.00 right now, was it imperative that I do so, and he told me it wasn’t a problem, and transfered me to a specialist.
The specialist asked me for my credit card information to secure my free cruise, not knowing it would be charge because I had stated I didn’t have the money currently, I stupidly gave them my credit card number. After I spoke with the specialist, he said he would transfer me to their confirmation department. The confirmation department confirmed my mailing address, phone number, and email and made me repeat all that information back to them. Then she gave me a reservation number and said all I had to do was contact the company by calling 1-800-221-8200 within 18 months, with a 60 day grace period before the date I wanted to sail to book the free cruise. We ended the call with me thinking I had just gotten an awesome deal and I would save up to pay the $118.00 later on in the year.
After I got off the phone I decided to search online for pictures of the ship and information about it, I’m an avid cruiser and I was very excited to see what my ship would look like, while searching I found many people stating the free cruise was a fraud, they would attach hidden fees to the cruise, they would charge your credit card without prior notice, etc. I decided to check my credit card and make sure nothing funny was going on, and sure enough, I currently have a pending charge from CCV-Caribbean Cruise Lines for $118.00, even though I explicitly told them I could not pay right now.
Infuriated I called the customer service number and told them I wanted to cancel the information booklet they would be mailing to me and I wanted a refund for the $118.00 they charged to my card. The first person I spoke to transfered me to the ‘appropriate’ department for my inquiry. This person I spoke to informed me there were no refunds or cancellations allowed and that I was told that on the phone, I explained to him that I did not think they were going to charge me right away and I wasn’t told there were no refunds. He was very rude to me, badgering me, talking over me, yelling at me for talking while he was talking, so I asked to speak to someone else or his supervisor. He stated that my inquiry did not warrant speaking with a supervisor and I was who he needed to speak to. I honestly have never been spoken to so rudely by a ‘customer service’ agent before in my life. I continued to ask him to transfer me to his supervisor, at least 15 times before he finally did.
When I spoke to the supervisor and explained my situation and that I would like a cancellation and refund he had no problem with this and advised me I will have my refund within 3 business days. So I guess I will have to wait and see if that actually happens. Here’s to hoping!
Don’t get scammed by this company, I got sucked into the idea of a free lunch, when we all know there is no such thing. Just because Carmen Electra is in the commercial does not mean it’s reputable, and always do your research first before you are pressured into giving your credit/debit card number.
I bet she goes on every cruise! Thank you for your words about your experience.
You knew they would charge your card when you gave it to them.
Did she ever get her money back Holly?
I was curious if any one has actually taken a cruise called “Caribbean Cruise Lines” and if so what was their experience like, what was the bottom line cost (excluding extras like alcohol, spa, gambling, goods and services off the ship, etc.)? Is Caribbean Cruise Lines a legit company? I found these posst at yahooanswers.com……
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Best Answer – Chosen by Voters
A “legit scam”?? There really IS a Caribbean Cruise Line and they really DO offer very low fares to the Bahamas. However, the ship is a rehabbed ferry, the food and service are of low quality, and it only goes to the Bahamas. I’ve read reports from past passengers that the ship is often met by DEA agents when it returns to the US.
You could do a search on that cruise line and I’m sure you’ll get some leads. Or, you could go to CruiseCritic.com, click on “Boards”, then “Member Reviews”, or on “Reviews” and read pro or member reviews.
Whether or not you would enjoy the cruise would depend on whether or not you’ve ever cruised [if not, you have nothing to compare it to], what your standards are re quality, and whether you think the Bahamas is an exciting cruise destination [if they go to Freeport or Nassau, then I'd pass, no matter what]. Can’t remember whether a time share presentation is part of the deal, and, of course, you’ll have to pay taxes, fees, port charges, as well as for any drinks [soda or alcohol], etc.
10 months ago
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Best Answer – Chosen by Voters
People People. Don’t jump the gun just yet.
It sounds like what you received is a promotion sponsored by Ramada.
In exchange for you visiting their resort, they will give you a free hotel stay and a free cruise.
Of course you will have to do a timeshare tour. This does not mean its a scam! Scams are when someone purposely takes your money without any intent on providing a service/product.
Regarding the hotel. I am not sure what resort they want you to tour. They typically have you stay at the same resort you will be touring. Which means the resort has to be half decent, from a business stand point right? They are not going to have you stay in a hole in the wall, and then ask you to spend thousands to get coming back.
Also included in the promotion is a cruise. The cruise is probably on the Bahamas Celebration. Previously the ship that was used for this promotion was Regal Empress. The ship was old and its GONE!
The Bahamas Celebration is a cruise ship run by Celebration Cruise Line.
Now, nothing is free. You do have to pay small fees like taxes and tips for the cruise and hotel stay. However, its a great deal if you go with an open mind and don’t expect the Ritz Hotel and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. I would suggest looking into it!
Continue to do your own research like you have been doing; and make your own decision.
Source(s):
Photos of the new ship along with a review can be found here:
http://www.travelbydeals.com/blog/news/b…
Celebration Cruise Lines Website Here:
http://www.bahamascelebration.com/
Reviews of the promotion. Keep in mind the reviews are about Ramada, but travelers mention the cruise as well because its part of the deal:http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/28…
Information about the transition here:
http://www.travelbydeals.com/blog/news/b…
1 year ago
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My opinion……I am glad that I probably saved myself the cost of travel, taxes, tips and the HEADACHE of a hard sales presentation. Long travels and dealing with sales people for a good portion of a short vacation would pretty much ruin the whole vacation for me. I am upset enough having had to deal with the rude sales persons over the phone who I told twice that I would not give them my credit card and declined the “free” cruise. Sadly, hard economic times are bringing out the worst in some people.
well put.
Yikes! My husband and I were planning on upgrading our packages to an 11 day 10 night trip. 3 days in ft. lauderdale, 3 days Orlando, 2 days on cruise ship & 3 days at Our Lucuya in Bahamas. We will have to pay $915 dollars for the entire package. We thought that sounded like a great deal! All our meals are included everywhere except the Bahamas. It even includes a rental car for our stay in Florida, Yes, we have to attend a time share tour but we dont mind. Did anyone else get an offer like this one? I have to call them back by Monday if we are interested. We were actually kind of getting excited about the trip….but now I’m a little worried. Has anyone recieved an offer like this one?
Lady, there is 106 people that have complained on here. Albiet, there were about less than 6 (and I’m giving you 4) people that had a good time on the trip, compared to the…. 100 or so who didnt. That’s 5.6% of the people on the boat have a good time.
I suggest you go on the trip, and report back to us?
I would actually like to hear how it was.
My guess is that if you actually lived in Florida or close by, you might be able to get away with taking the trip and not paying too much.
yes kat i just received an offer like this,they transfered me to this lady named tiziana,and told me to call her back before 1030,i got the exact same package deals has you,its kinda fishy,its with the caribbean cruise line of grand bahama island…
yes please report back on your experience….I already paid hefty $650 so too late to say “I wish I didn’t”….just praying for the best alteranative then just throwing the money away and not go….and I am from Toronto Canada..
bummer, if you act quickly you can cancel it on your mastercard!
Thank you so much for the wonderful information. I’ve been getting these annoying phone calls because I too took the survey. The problem is I really am going to book a girlfriend cruise, but don’t know when or how many are going. I don’t know that I want to run into the problems you did….so I think I will just pass on their offer and go with a reputable firm.
I have had the same thing happen. I was told that I would be able to have a passport card and I have to get a passport. So they lied about that and the extra chargers they were making me pay. They are charging me a million different hidden fees. I actually upgraded my package when I bought it back in July, so now I have almost 500 into the cruise. I will not be able to get my money back. I just got off the phone with customer service, and the lady YELLED at me! I thought things were getting fishy a couple days ago when I tried to book my flight, but now I realized I was scamed. I do not know how people sleep at night knowing what they are doing to innocent people.
I agree with you Brandi, how do they sleep at night. Somewhere inside of them they have to know they’re pulling the fleece over us.
Thank you. I just wanted to let you know that you saved a poor college student from getting scammed and thank god I looked up the name of the Caribbean cruise line. I got a call and I told them I didn’t want the cruise so give it to someone else and they continuously kept calling me so I thought it was fishy. But anyway they told me I had to pay 59 dollars for a port fee. And I knew that was a bunch of bull. The phone number was 1-800-446-1524. And I hope someone else will be lucky like me and not fall for it. God bless you!
It warms my soul to hear that Angie. Even just saving you, another college student, from being ripped off makes me a very happy blogger.
good luck with the rest of your semester.
hi,well i received a free cruise trip to go to the bahamas with caribbean cruise line..they asked me for the 118$ and that igot 18 months to use the ticket and that i would have the tickets within 21 days.they asked me for my credit card number and said they couldnt hold the package because since i had called,the promotion was activated,so apparently the lady said she would do me a favor and told me to call her back in about an hour…so ya to resume i get a free cruise for 118$,im kinda skeptical about this,like they said they werent no hidden fees,did anybody hear bout this cruise liner?
Before I did my trip, I looked everywhere, and had other people looking everywhere for any information on the trip. It was very hard to come by, and the only one who seemed to have heard or taken this trip was Carmen Electra…
This sounds legitamite. Having experience working at the boynton beach office at the promotions department for the caribbean cruise line I know what packages sound right and what doesn’t. If you go threw a verification process and get a confirmation code then it’s ok. Don’t mention it to them wait and see if they tell you you’re going to go threw it and if they do then it’s legit.
Hahaha (at my own misfortune), my family was right. They knew it was a scam as soon as I told them about it, but I had already made a non-refundable deposit of $216.00 for the reservation of a more decently located cabin for two. The friend who told me about it had seen an advertisement featuring Carmen Electra, offering a free vacation for the first so-many callers from each state. I got the same number as one of the replies above: 1-800-221-8200. Weak sauce.
Try asking your credit card company. That’s how I got my money back. Mention all the hidden fees, like the $600 vacation package they pressure you to buy.
Also, thanks very much for putting up all of this detailed information about your situation. It was nice to finally know for sure. It’s also really cool how so many others had verified it with their responses. Rock.
This is a VERY SHADY COMPANY!! A cruise does exist so they can operate legally but they do charge extra hidden fees and they lie through their teeth!!
I got a call at the end of August. They received my information from a ballot I filled out at the Toronto Jazz fest. I don’t normally go for stuff like this because you hear of “free cruise scams” all the time. But because they told me that the best way they advertise is through word of mouth they give away 60 discounted cruises. I feel for it!
But I didn’t feel right about it. I researched on the Better Business Bureau’s Website and they listed the company as an “F” (this is not good and also they were only established in 2008). As I kept searching I found out that this scam has been opeartating for years, they just keep changing names. When I called to tell mastercard and tell them my story they asked, “was it Caribbean cruise line?”.
I was beginning to feel trapped, I just wanted my money back and nothing to do with this company. Luckily I found a post online that helped me out HUGE!!! Here’s my story: (if you want your money back and it’s within 30 days that you purchased the cruise please read!)
Thanks to a postI read online I decided to call and try and get my money back. I followed her instructions. They were very pushy and kept trying to find out why I didnt want such a lovely vacation anymore. It took 32 minutes of me saying,
“no, It’s just not for me”.
However I HAD TO RECITE FLORIDA LAW. First they told me “you missed the 10 days in which you can get your refund”. So I recited Florida law that I have 30 days (I was at day 26 at that point).
Then they said, “yes, but that law doesn’t apply to you because you live in Ontario”.
I told him that as Caribbean Cruise lines operates out of Florida they are bound by Florida law.
Finally they connected me to “Pam” who confirmed my details.
This call was made on Sept. 22 2010. I almost all of my money back Sept 25 2010. (Paid $399.31 and got a refund of 389.31). I never thought I’d see that again!! Thanks Abelle!! I would have believed the companies lies. I can’t believe they keep getting away with this!
For more instructions read Abelles post
http://flvacationrental.com/uncategorized/caribbeanclcom-is-this-a-scam-caribbean-cruise-line/
I hope more people read this and don’t get scammed!!
I just had this company call me today and almost fell for this as well! II kept telling them I had to check with my freind, look at my finances, etc before I made the decision. They wanted me to put them on hold while I did all this! Then they kept lowering the price and adding more incintives so it was really tempting. I decided to put them on hold and google the ship and company and came up with this blog. I got back on the phone, told them I was not interested and hung up the phone. Thank goodness I came across this or I would be out $665! If something sounds too good to be true 99.9% of the time it is. I will NEVER even think about purchasing anything like this again until I do the research on it!
I’m happy to hear that you didn’t get sucked in! Thanks for sharing your experience you had. Its criminal really.
I can usually smell a scam from a mile away, and I knew before I even opened the envelope that this was a scam. However, many people are not so skeptical and cycnical as I am, and they get drawn in to these traps. Thanks for posting this, it will help some people out!
It has helped many already, and I hope it helps more! I think this same company tried to phone me and get me to sign up for a ‘free’ trip to Cancun. Same treatment, pushy sales. grr. Thanks for leaving your two bits
Thanks for the website. It just confirmed my suspicions when I received the “free cruise” travel voucher in the mail yesterday. Thanks again.
Thank you. My wife has been trying to get me to sign up for this cruise since it arrived in the mail. I said “scam” and she thinks it is legit. I have bookmarked this site for her to read. I have warned her before to beware of anything that originates in Florida. Your exposure of this so-called cruise should convince her that this is a scam. This coupon book is what she received:
page 1: (front cover) Caribbean Cruise Line “Benefits of Record” with confirmation number 450093037.
page 2: $250,000.00 karaoke contest.
page 3 and 4: A “congratulations” letter that is obviosly a form with blanks that were to be filled in by the sender. When these people fill in the blanks with their information there are large gaps where a longer insert would go.
page 5: Travel Credit Voucher in the amount of $1,300.00 with a control number of No. 161002 in magnetic ink encoding style. The reverse side has Terms and Conditions.
page 6: Free Cruise Redemtion Receipt with reservation number LKT092010.
page 7: Is “Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort” advertisement. (back cover)
If these numbers match yours then you can bet this is a scam.
My father-in law got this FREE cruise and because we live in Florida thought we could
use it. When I called they said YES you have a FREE cruise BUT only ONE WAY and
would have to pay for the cruise back and that all my Father in law paid was the
PORT charges. BUT for $518.00 we could get the full cruise and THREE nites at
OUR LUCAYA. The room rate are $180 per night for a standard room. We have stayed at OUR LUCAYA B-4 and this seems like a deal too good to be true……
WE’LL see??
wow i’m so glad i have found this site on on the phone with them trying to get my refund..I had the exact same call asking to do 10 questions survey once i was finished i was offered a free cruise.. I agreed and 3 days later like they said someone will contact me which they did today.. i was offered the 2 day cruise to the bahamas plus hotel stay in Fort Laurderadale and Orlando and even reimbursement money.. I am sucker for all these scams.. Stay with my gut too good to true wow on hold to get a refund pretty bad
This site has save me a ton of cash thanks
They are still at it. I just got the exact same call that is posted above from a guy named James Mathewuse. He told me about how great this cuise is and all the the wonderful ports of call that are included. The one thing that I didn’t read is has anyone actually taken this cruise or is this a complete piece of makebelieve?
Just curious.THX
There is one person that has claimed to have gone on the cruise (and vehemently claimed he’s not affiliated with the company), and one or two that have contested that the company is legit, but haven’t said whether they have taken the cruise or not. I haven’t seen any pictures, posts, or anything saying its good.
I think there was actually one person who said they went on it and it was like an old ferry? 2nd rate food service etc. But once again, no photos or anything to support this.
Hope this helps.
My fiance actually got off the phone with them. We were really excited because we have been looking for something to do for our honeymoon but didn’t want to pay an arm and a leg for anything. We thought it was our silver lining to go on a cruise. Thankfully we had already said no before I read this, but this still confirms that we made the right decision. Thanks so much for keeping us informed!
HI all-
It would seem that they have changed some of the terms and conditions in order to avoid legal problems down the road, or due to the quantity of unhappy customers as seen in the above comments.
MY EXPERIENCE: I just received both a travel voucher for two nights and one day cruise to the Bahamas on the “Bahamas Celebration” AND a Credit Voucher for $1,300.00 if I decided upon utilizing the “extended stay” option (this varies and you have choices). They clearly state the $59.00 per person tax up front, and mention other smaller taxes that may occur.
All of the actual detailed information is printed on back of the $1,300.00 “Credit Voucher”, where they go into some detail about having to endure a presentation on the sale of independent vacation ownership resorts such as Vacation Village at Bonaventure and Bonaventure & Village Vacation at Parkway.
At the very bottom of the fine print, it states clearly that: “This advertising material is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of a vacation ownership plan”.
So it’s all very simple. If you have the money to travel to Florida on your own dime (I don’t), and have the will to endure a sales pitch on condo time shares (or something like it), you end up with a free cruise whose duration is up to you, and has limited flexibility in terms of dates.
I am a regular at a sweepstakes site that has the general opinion that NO sweepstakes which offers a destination without free travel to get there is even worth the time to enter. I agree.
Your mileage may vary. Good luck to all.
Mike Selvey (NOT an employee of any of these entities)
Nacogdoches, TX
I received a call on Wednesday from Patty ID# 1976 and said nothing about money but she would send my packet right away. I was on cloud nine thinking I will give this to my parents as a Christmas gift. I received another call today wanting to verify all the amenities of my free trip and wanted my credit card information. I asked a ton of questions because I had viewed this website prior to them calling. Mrs. Robbins contacted me today and I explained that this was a scam towards the end of our conversation and she said that she could lose her license if it was and just kept assuring me that this was on the up and up. After wasting enough of my time when asked for the fourth time about my credit card information I kindly told her I didn’t have one. She said not even a debit card and said no not one of those either. She sighed and said I am so sorry that you will be missing out on such a wonderful trip. I kindly said I think I will keep my money and use for a REAL cruise. Thank you everyone for saving me a lot of heart ache, money, time and above all myself pride.
Chris Sutton
Little Elm, Texas
Chris, thanks for sharing your story with us. They are professionals at trying to convince you thats forsure! I wonder how many people they actually get…
Thank you for your insight Michael, I appreciate you taking the time to share it with us all so that we can stop this company from taking innocent peoples money.
OMG. so glad i found this. they called me this morning. Same guys. here’s my story:
They asked me if i filled out the voucher at the ‘spring motorcycle show at the international center”…..fact is…i did the winter show. anyways it DID sound too good to be true. I let it go along. He introduced himself as “Jamial Thompson.”
He asked me stupid questions like “do i like food?”….”do i like hot weather?”….”do you like beaches”…”do you like the carribean?”
After the third question….i had enough. I told him that he has my address and if there are tickets and an information package, he can mail it. He continued on his stupid tangent offering free dinners and a golf range….i cut him off again….saying get to the chase. I don’t have time to hear all the details and to send me an information package. he asked to then talk to someone else in the house? *again my bells and whistles went off* I replied no asking him me to send me the information….this is where he told me to go to the computer and look at the website (the same one you listed “www.carribeancl.com”) and he wanted to walk me through their application processing together on the phone and was out-right asking me for my credit card information. That was my last straw with them so i told him to his face ‘nice scam’.
the number was 1-800-417-9257.
You should all be aware that if a company pays their dues to the BBB, responds to complaints quickly and reasonably, the BBB will give the company a good rating and in essence, protect the company because that’s where their money comes from.
Thanks Mark, I’ve submitted this company to the BBB to get reviewed, I’m pretty sure they have a horrible rating with them.
Thank you so much for posting about your experiences with this company. We just returned home to find 8 messages from them stating that we had won a “free cruise”. While I had their rep on the phone, I found your post and quickly realized that it was a scam.
Wow. Thats awkward. i had to deal with them phoning me once a day for a few weeks. Finally I answered and asked them to take me off their phoning list and not to phone again.
I was almost scammed by this company today. Spent almost 45 minutes on the phone with Carlos this morning as he kept assuring me it WAS NOT A SCAM. He actually told me he was a preacher’s son….Ok, preacher of what??
I told him I would need to talk to my husband first before I put anything on my card. He of course offered to call him (3 way). I told him he is at work and “I” will call him and that I will call him back. Here comes the “we only have 40 cabins to give away and it is first come first serve, why don’t I just pay the 118 and if he does not want to go we can sell it to a friend or even extend after the 18 months when times might be better. I told him if I called him back and all the rooms were gone..then this was not meant to be. He came back with, you can also look at it like it is meant to be because I called you out of all the people who filled out for it. He had to put me on hold because he wanted to give me a number to call 800-221-8200 and that is suppose to assure me it is a real cruise line. I told him I had some one give me a 800 # for assurance and it was disconnected. He said he felt bad and wanted to give me a direct # for the cruise director Terica…954-567-9353 X4135. I ended up hanging up because things did not feel right….he called back…7 times. I did not even tell you half of it, but you get the gist of it.
The sad thing is that this sounded good and I “was” buying into it. I must have sucker by my name somewhere because I ALREADY was a victim to a scam this past March for our wedding, the DJ I hired “Sound Sensory” was a big scam, luckily we found out the week before and was able to find someone else in that short time. Thanks for posting this so people can see what is really going on.
Hello,
So you answered a cold call and gave them money to go on a cruise? Don’t you have any sense in not to just take a cold call and give money to someone. If you wanted to go on a cruise it would seem to go to a travel agency, or go on line and ensure that you are on the travel agency or the cruise agency.
I hear about this all the time and I don’t feel that Caribbean Cruise Lines are to blame because it wasn’t them calling you. I would have called Caribbean’s number back right away and then went through the process.
How is it if someone just calls you and you take their word. Unless you initialize the conversation by taking action up front, then get a call back I can see that but taking a cold call, I’m just hoping (and praying) that you don’t do that again.
No one EVER calls with good deals like that, it just doesn’t make sense, it’s not anything real, it’s always a scam, but it’s not Caribbean’s, it would be some other creapy guys and I can’t wait to find them and I’ll put them behind bars for you.
Take care be safe!
-Aaron
Thank you! That’s exactly how I feel. I’m a representative at the caribbean cruise line and it’s not the cruise line doing this. It’s a scam artist and I can’t even tell you how hard it is to sell a trip to anyone these day because of posts like this. Most of you people are dealing directly with the cruise line. If you have recieved a voucher and called up about it and are getting a call back then it’s the real thing. But if you’re just getting a call from a 1800 number out of the blue then it’s a scam. Block the number. You’re suppose to go threw a verification process and get a confirmation number if they don’t mention that stuff in you’re conversation then it’s not legit.
Thank you for your tips, but as it was stated in my initial posting, I did go through the whole verification process, I got an email verification, and phone them back, as well as random other verifications that I went through, which in itself was part of the problem, since I was forced to put the money down, and then my confirmation was sent in the mail, which took more than the amount of days I was allowed to have pass before I asked for a refund. Tricky, and cheeky.
A company that has bad customer service, horribly tricky refund policy, and car-salesman like marketing .should. have a hard time selling.
This is not an attempt at making a shot at your character, but just the company.
I got a voucher in the mail. My husband has been deployed overseas for a year and I thought it would be nice to take a vacation together with our three year old since we haven’t been together so long. I called the number and they pressed me and pressed me and I told them I would have to talk to my husband about it first and they said that I should do it as a surprise and I told them I don’t make decisions like that without talking to him about it first. So they held on the phone with me while I contacted him, I hadn’t decided on what I wanted to do yet by the way. They had my credit card number and I was given a name and number to call back “Kevin Holmes (954-485-0708)” if I ever had any questions. well anyways…My husband said he didn’t want to do it at all, and that he gets sea sick and would like to go to the mountains instead. Somewhere in Colorado. So I told the guy that and he started saying things like, are you gonna listen to your husband, why is he keepig you from this and blah blah. Trying to make him look like he is a bad husband or something. The man has been away from his family for a year serving our country and this is what you say to me! So I told them I didn’t want any of it, And they started saying you are already approved. I said approved for what I never told you I wanted anything can you unapprove me. So i quickly loged into my bank account while i was on the phone with him and I said you already took money out of my account. and he said yes that is what I’m trying to tell you and i said well you said i was approved for the vacation you never said anything about taking money out of my account. He took out $118. I explained to him that we would have to save for a vacation and the military pay doesn’t make us rich and we need our money. He said that I would have to go through the process of a recorded reciept and verify my information and when i get something in the mail I could cancel it then. I said no. I don’t want to do that. I asked him to just return it now. He said I don’t know how long that will take. I said I don’t care just credit it back. He said fine and hung up on me….. So i called the bank and canceled the card and placed the amount off hold and the bank said if it processed and came through I could despute the amount since i never gave them permission to take the amount out. We will see what happens.
That’s how I got my money back. You’ll never get your money back from Caribbean Cruiseline directly, but the good news is that they give everyone the same run around. A day or two after I contested the charge online, someone called me from the credit card company and asked if I had spoken with them about it. I told them I had tried but gotten nowhere. The bank rep put me on hold and called them. After fifteen minutes, he came back and apologized for the wait. He explained that they had put him on hold, transferred him three times and then hung up on him, and after this treatment he decided to approve my request.
I wish I would have tried your method; getting the credit card company to phone the company themselves. Thanks for this tip, next time, which I hope is never, I’ll try it.
Damn, that sounds exactly like what happened to me, and you definitely have my sympathy. As I’ve said before, and I’ll say it again, its ridicules they try and swindle your money out of your pockets like this.
Well since I wrote this let me tell you what is happening now. The money was never taken from my account thank God! I know why. I never went throughout with the voice verification process that Rachel up above was talking about. That’s how they “get you” or legitimately finalize the order. And then your royally screwed. But I refused to go through with it because I didn’t want the vacation because according to them, “do you hate vacations?” lol they were ridiculous. No it wasn’t a 1-800 number. And like Rachel said, I got a voucher in the mail and then I initiated the call to them but I can say that Rachel is either ignorant or a liar, they attempted to scam me. The way they talked to me was unacceptable, they tried to make me feel like an idiot for not taking such a “great deal”, and made my husband out to be a communist or something like he locks me in the house or something… Haha and told me that if my payment declined that it was ok they just wanted my credit Card number and wanted me to go through a voice verification process and when I finally said no they got extremely rude and the guy said well if your not going through the verification process then I’m hanging up on you! (loudly) I said ok and that was that. But I can tell everyone here that Florida Law states that you are entitled to a full refund of vacation packages within 30 days of the purchase I believe. I have read on other sites where people have called the cruise line and told them This and the cruise line argues with them for about an hour and tells people they have to go by the law of the state they live in but that is not true but they will finally refunding your money of you stick to your guns and remain just as persistent as they are. So if they have your money YOU CAN GET IT BACK! Just act quick and don’t believe a word they tell you.
Thanks again for your words Samantha, and the follow up. Your words help spread the news. Its ok about the spelling and grammar! were not judging!
I just helped my roommate with this exact same issue. Her elderly mother had been duped into using her debit card to pay the $695 for the “free” cruise. When she tried to call back the SAME DAY to cancel, they wouldn’t give her a refund… at first. I’m a lawyer, and within 3 minutes of me getting on the phone, they refunded her money. Not that I really did much besides give them my bar number.
Well… I was contacted about a year ago to setup the trip. They only gave me one year to take the trip. It was a free trip to Bahamas but then they added a trip to Vegas for 500 bucks. Thought that sounded reasonable. Paid them. THEN it gets better… I called them and told them I didn’t have the time for it and need to have more time. They said okay. They changed it to 18 months.
Today with no notification or anything they call me and say they are charging me another 800 dollars to my debit card and there is nothing I can do about it.
This company has been very fishy from the beginning. They refused to send me anything on this at all. Everytime I spoke with a representative I got another excuse or another answer. I marked my card lost/stolen but they said it doesn’t matter cause supposedly in the disclosure it said that I was going to have to pay this. Me and my wife was on the line that day and nothing was said like that in the disclosure.
If that payment hits my account I am going to hire an attorney and sue them. Any ideas?
Oh my lord. I got a phone call the same day as the mid term election, they asked me questions for a survey. I gave them my number and e-mail address.. they called me back 5 minutes later and told me they will contact me in 48hrs. When that day came along the tone of the ladies voice was very unkind so i wasn’t interested anymore but i let the lady finished.. then she hit me with the 118 dollar fee.. i said. could i call back, she made me make up my mind right then and there. I said I am a college student and yes this deal sounded great but 118 isn’t something I would throw away. Well she promised she will call the next day. the next day meant 3 days later lol, by then i already knew something wasn’t right. I didn’t do my research which i should have but i always go with my guy feeling. The workers weren’t pleasant and they just had this shady voice. So anyways, a guy calls me back that 3 days later, telling me that 118 dollars was a good deal for 2 people. I told him I don’t have that money, he repeated himself and i did too..so he HUNG UP ON ME. Then I knew this was not a real business. What type of business does that? so now another 3 days later I am getting missed phone calls from them, the next time they will do this I will tell them off,
i am so glad i came acrros your page. Same thing happened to me.. This lady named “Lauren Ballard” called me making all these sweet deals. I told her i have to ask my husband and get his say on this one…but she was like ” are u able to make up ur owen decisions” but still i was persistent. Then while talking to her i googled “carrabiean crusie scam” and came across your page. While she is on the other line , i am going thru your page and realized its a scam. I told her that my husband doesnt want to do it..so i cant take this offer….
shud have realized that there is no such thing as “free Lunch”
but thanks a lot to your article…..::)
Thank god I did my research before even calling them. I received a “voucher” in the mail for a free cruise for two and they included a $1300 “travel voucher”. It seems pretty legit at first, I read through the fine print and there isnt anything to really stop from making the phone call to get more information. The one thing that caught my attention is that they don’t have a website printed ANYWHERE on ANYTHING. I know that someplaces dont have a webpage yet but come on now, most big businesses are on FACEBOOK let alone have a website! I really apprectiate the post because I’m in school full time and I’m working full time, so even if I DID have the time to persue this I don’t have the money to throw away to scammers like these guys.
Thank you so much for your post!
Also, I would love to know how big of an area that they are actually sending mail to and how they are getting our phone numbers/addresses.
I’m happy to hear you got saved. It sounds like you’re in the same boat as a lot of us; not having enough free cash to splurge on a fancy cruise, but enough to believe in things that are to good to be true.
It would be nice to map such a thing. hmm.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
I actually work at the Caribbean Cruise Line and that sounds pretty fishy. Our numbers dont come from a 1-800 number. Maybe you should have asked more of the right questions. They’re suppose to let you know that your conversation is voice recording and you are suppose to get a confirmation number and everything. Looks to me like some low lifes did they’re research to make them sound legitamite enough. They even gave you the website we have for our costumers. You should have looked at it over the phone with them and asked them what the privacy policies are. Anyway, I’m no longer going to be working there with them due to the fact that everyone thinks it is a scam so there is no sales there. Sorry you had bad luck with it. All of the people I’ve sold to we did a follow up check on them and they didn’t have any problems
Thats a good idea, maybe it is all just somebody sending out scams, but to be honest, I think there is to many people that are being contacted, and facing the same people that its impossible to say its another fraud company thats doing it, and not Caribbean cruise lines.
I think its funny to that so many people have asked for their money back from this place, and yet the credit card companies are still allowing them to make transactions. Don’t they have to have a certain license?
THank you for sharing your side of the story, I’m sorry your employer isn’t good with customers.
What made you think they were legit? what evidence besides answering the phone proved this to you? Thanks for your time John B.
Also just for everyones help if you don’t want to recieve the phonecalls DON’T just hang up.that will only leave you on the list. You have to specifically say i want to be on the do not call list.
Good point, this is what I eventually did, and it worked for me. I haven’t received a call since.
First of all…THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing your experience and exposing the truth about Caribbean Cruise Line. Just yesterday received in the mail, a voucher that said “to promote tourism to the beautiful Grand Bahama Island, Caribbean Cruise Line has identified you to receive a free two night cruise” (and this next part was heightlighted which seemed odd) “for two onboard the Bahamas Celebration.
TO OTHERS OUT THERE DOING YOUR RESEARCH….look for the following signs that it’s a scam. It may be different or not exactly the same. This is just what my voucher said.
1. On the very front of the voucher it said in the bottom right corners in a little box marked “Benefits of Record” it had a confirmation #, (1) free cruise for 2*, (2) $1300 travel vouchers.
2. In the information inside things like “free cruise for 2″, and “please call Toll Free 1-800-971-3233 in the next 72 hours to claim you Free Cruise. Please call with your travel companion.” that last part was weird.
The names and numbers they gave me…
Robert Mitchill (his signature was on the $1300 travel voucher
Donald (gave me his “employee number” SO6166)
Phil (also gave his “employee number” SO7385)
Customer Service # 1-800-221-8200
Another service number for Fort Lauderdale, FL (945)455-3211
Also during the phone call (yes I called) the rep Phil transferred me to a women whose name I can’t recall, he did this multiple times especially when it came to payment time and in mid-sentence as well as when I had questions. But when it started to seem fishy and I started asking questions about scams and how this seemed to good to be true was SUCH A SMOOTH TALKER. He even said what to look for with a scam, something about the envelope saying third class mail is a sign that it’s a scam and how the voucher I got wasn’t because why would all the well known companies like Alamo Drivers and Ramada Inn let scammers use their names…
Just because they put these well know companies logos on a piece of paper does not mean they aren’t scamming you.
PLEASE PEOPLE DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE YOU HAND OVER YOUR ACCOUNT INFO. I made that mistake and now I have to wait 3 weeks to access the money in my account cuz i had to cancel my card and get a new one. Luckly I’m not out the $316 they wanted me to pay.
My pleasure. I’m very glad you choose to share your experience and provide more information so that more people will find this blog and be warned of the experience
We actually took this cruise last year and we hit some bumps in the road, but overall, we loved this cruise. They are very persistent on getting you to cruise but overall it was a good experience. This is a great first time cruisers option and it does have fees, but not as many as other cruise lines charge. The port fees are reasonable for what they have to perform as far as getting you on the boat and through the whole ID check and it is for your safety. The only issue I had with them was that when I got there, I had a cabin reserved but they could not find it and then I had to sit 5 hours until everyone else was boarded to see if there would be a cabin available! In the end, I believe I got a better cabin because of it anyway. Look at it this way, at least I did not get stuck out at see for several days!!!!
yes, being stuck out in the middle of nowhere would definitely been bummer. Did you have a chance to talk with anybody else on the cruise? Did anybody else get the same deal as you, from the same people, or were most of the people there because they went through their travel agent?
Love to know more.
Hey,
I really am glad that I’ve read your post about this “FREE CRUISE” from Caribbean Cruise Line. I got home from school and found a their letter in my mailbox. At first, I was like, “How do they know me when I never did any surveys or anything online?” I thought it was a joke because my older sister got the letter too, like 3 years ago. However, when I was reading the whole package of the letter, I got excited and I wanted to call them right away. I thought that before I call them, I will try to look them up online and then I found this article. YOU SAVED ME, I guess from being scammed. I have never been scammed before and thank you because you saved me. There is only one thing left for me to do – tear the letter and throw it out. Thanks, again.
Glad to help, thanks for sharing your experience.
These folks are STILL at it!! I usually do not answer my cell if I don’t recognize the number. I have had numerous prior calls from the Florida area codes, but today I happened to answer. Same spiel….I let “JOHN HOLLOWAY, ID #3649″ talk……He said he was calling from Florida (caller ID indicated Omaha NE), that I had “won” a cruise aboard the Celebration….. Same story as above posts. Not only did he have my cell phone number, he also had my email and home address. Neat. I have been on several cruises, yet had never heard of Caribbean Cruiselines. I googled it as I was listening to him go on and on. I was suspicious because of the red flags……
1) “Onetime Only” Chance…..can’t think about it and call them back
2) Request for a CREDIT CARD #…….c”mon!! Why don’t they ask for a Social Security Number while they’re at it?!?!?
I can share this story with friends and family, but what are the proper channels for stopping this “company”? ANYONE can get duped, regardless of how shrewd or bright, yet I’m thinking there are plenty vulnerable seniors out there!! Who should I call?
Thanks for your awesome blog, Kingkabuz!!
Jebus. They will never stop.
The avenues I have taken to try and stop them is a. blog about it, and b. I have phoned the better business bureau to try and get them scrutinized. I believe that they have been evaluated and haven’t passed a thing and are in very bad terms with the BBB. So, waht else can you do? I don’t know.
Thanks for your information, I think thats the best thing you can do.
I just received a call from the same company (800 417 9257) and I “supposidly” WON a cruise by filling out a ballot at The Toronto Women’s Convention. I to was to “secure” my spot by paying $59.00 for port taxes for 2 people to take a cruise for 3 nites, 4 days to Bahamas. I heard the whole speal, and was told I had to make a decision today as there were only 20 spots available- when I said I wasn’t comfortable he provided me with his name (Carlos) and the phone # to his Cruise Director (Vanessa) 957-630-9449 X4135 so I can call back. At the end I flat out asked him, if I WON a cruise there shouldn’t be a problem with me getting the spot as i WON, and its not a promotion. He stumbled and didn’t have anything to say, and I said THanks, but no thanks and hung up. I wonder if the cruise lines knows there doing this….
Glad I could help you, and thank you very much for informing us. The more people I can help, the happier I become.
I am glad that i found your post – i received a similar letter today from Caribbean Cruise Line – for information the number they asked me to call is 1-800-441-6306 – i never fall into such things – however the offer was so good that i tried to find if it was real or a scam – i am glad that u posted ur experience – has helped me not to waste my time and resources on this scam
Thanks again
Thank You.
Did a quick search and found your post. Too good to be true.
Said “no thanks”, but happy to read I made the right choice.
I was called by the people saying I won it from a survey company so I called and got all the information. I paid, I believe $118 but for me they actually did send me everything. My husband and I went on the cruise about a year ago and everything was fine (it was our first one, but we could tell it was super ghetto). It was on the Imperial Cruiseline and it was a 3 day 2 night cruise to Nassau. We ended up having a great time. I just got a call from (800) 417-9257 where it was a recording telling me to call back to receive my free cruise…another one? Anyway, I called back and they said the office was closed and I had to call back between 9:00 a.m. and 10 p.m. (which it clearly is) so I decided to look up the number/company. After reading your blog and the other comments it looks like my situation was the exception and I don’t think I would be so lucky again. Thanks for sharing.
… the same BS…
The phone numbers they give now : 1 800-301-8076; 1 800-305-8147; 1800-221-8200 (for cust. serv.)
Their names now: Gina Proctor and Jaimes Olliverre
They ask for 598 $ (us) and raised port charges to 99$ US per person and they refer to a “Companion Airfafe”(!?) to buy travel tickets (2 for 1) from Canada to US.
When i refused to give them my visa info without my husband and my son approvals they simply hung up on me .
I used to work in telemarketing company… i know the leverage they are using to push on people… didn’t worke with me… feel sorry for thouse who got skamed…
Please, be addvised that English is not my motherlanguage so, do not curse me too much for my grammar
I paid 398$ for the cruise, now again they are asking me to pay $689 to take a trip, PLEASE DON’T TRUST this cruise, they are FAKE. They
Thank you for your warning and your experience, although it be an unfortunate one. Cancel your credit card, phone them immediately, and get them to phone caribbean cruise line with the numbers you were given, to try and get your money back for you. That seems to be the way that works.
I have actually almost purchased this exact deal twice. The first time My husband and I were still in college and I thought it would be a great get-away on the cheap. I didn’t mind a sales gimmick or whatever because we had no money to actually buy a time share. I backed out when I found out I had to buy my own plane ticket
Now that we have a little more money (and three kids) I got another call to answer some survey questions and “earn” a trip. I knew it was the same type of deal but thought I could spring for the plane tickets and “port taxes” this time and still save some money.
My first suspicion though was the survey ( I often participate in public opinion polls for free or for small amounts of compensation) This survey was wack it could not possibly gather any useful information for anyone. It was four completely unrelated very general questions and I knew I was not “earning” any thing by answering.
Against my better judgement I agreed to get a call about the details of my cruise. I got the call this morning. I listened to the whole thing (especially the part about you can not wait because of the “fairness” clause you must decide while you have me on the phone. I asked the woman to hold and came to look up other’s experiences with the company. I am happy to have found this thread! I got back on the phone and politely told Sandra Bernhard ID# 2767 that I would not be giving my credit card number to pay the $118 because of the overwhelming negative response from “customers” on the internet. She half-heartedly pressed the issue saying “what web-site were you on, because we have a website with all the testimonials on there” I laughed, almost feeling sorry for her because she seemed to believe what she was saying. I said it was not going to happen and we said Merry Christmas! We’ll see if I get more calls. Thanks again for everyone posting!
A few things I find pretty funny about the whole deal (obviously not funny if you lost money, but strange little warning signs)
#1 they like to say it’s a NOW or NEVER deal, but it seems to me that it’s pretty difficult to avoid these “opportunities” at public events, on TV, or even on your home phone.
#2 on the phone they often blow this ship horn when you answer and say “This is your captain speaking” What a way to alert people that they are about to be scammed!
#3 The email confirmation you get in the beginning has a picture of a ticket (posted on this thread) which is not a ticket or anything at all really but says in bold caps “please keep this for your records” hmmm…. I wonder what records they could possibly mean? The ones you try to use to get your money back? (cause I don’t think it’s gonna help)
haha, exactly! what bloody records?! maybe when used in court? but even then, could it be an official document? who knows. I guess it must be. I feel that your recommendations could be used widely for identifying many different scams. Thank you for your tips!
Hey, my pleasure. I’m glad to have helped yet another person, but I cannot take the full credit myself, for this blog is kept alive by the people that post like you telling of your experiences. So thank you
Oh what a tangled web they weave.
I just got off the telephone with that same company today. Their caller ID information is: “Oklahoma Cit OK 918-442-0799″. A live female started the conversation notifying me of a 10-question survey. She was very brief and quickly transferred me to an automated survey line. After completing the 10-question survey a live male confirmed my telephone number, zip code, and best time to call me to confirm the free 2-day cruise that I had just won for completing the survey. He also directed me to a website,
http://www.surveyclaim.com. This website required my telephone number and zip code to login. It then requested my email address for sending my Cruise Reservation Confirmation to. Next it had a list of 4 yes/no type questions for 4 products. After this there was a confirmation screen with all my responses, then the PRIZED ‘Caribbean Cruise Line – Bahamas Celebration’ cruise voucher screen appeared. This is the screen that I should print for my records.
Apparently I, and I’ll quote their words here: “have successfully completed the registration process and have been issued a 2 day 2 night all inclusive Grand Bahamas Island Cruise. Your information has been forwarded to Caribbean Cruise Line for processing. One of their Cruise Coordinators will be contacting you within the next 72 hours to go over all the information regarding booking your complimentary Cruise. “.
I guess I’ll just relax and prepare to have some fun when they call. Thanks to this blog I am well prepared to receive this call. I’ve received my share of scams before so I always do the research.
Thanks again,
I fell into this trap 2 years ago and did purchase this cruise and free hotel stay in Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando prior to and after the cruise to the Bahamas to stay 3 days at a resort, a free rental car, etc. I gave my credit card info etc. and it got charged. A few months later I changed my credit card (reported it lost). So now I got a call from them recently and they talked to my wife. The person on the line was very rude and was scaring my wife about some Federal Law and I was recorded in my conversation prior that I was purchasing this trip and I owe them another $600+ for it. Since they kept calling before and I was at work and finally my wife said she has the authority to make decisions, they harassed her to accept the trip and wouldn’t let her get off the line by scaring her with the Federal Law crap. Finally my wife hanged up after she got a hold of me on another line and I told her to.
They kept calling after that and not leaving any messages. I finally talked to them yesterday and the guy on the line was pleasant. Didn’t say anything about me owing them money or the Federal law crap they were giving my wife. This time he was trying to sell me a trip. He said that since I didn’t take the trip before and my package expired, they were giving me a courtesy call to make a better offer since I’ve long been their customer and part of their family. WHAT!!?? I searched my memory about joining these people but never really could think of any time I did except for the trip I gave an initial payment for. So he gave me his speech and gave me a much better deal and believe me it did sound really good. For $600+ – 3 days 2 night stay at Ramada Inn Ft Lauderdale (they claim they own) a day cruise to a resort in the Bahamas for 3 days 2 nights, trip back to Palm Beach and another 3 day 2 night stay at Orlando, a 3 day 2 night stay in San Diego, 4 days 3 nights in Vegas and another 3 day 2 night in Hawaii and free meals throughout. I kept saying i’m not sure so he kept adding those other vacation stays. I almost whipped out my credit card but I put him on hold and googled the company – I got a lot of SCAM warnings. So I told him NO with finality and he kept trying to get me to agree until he realized I guess that i wasn’t going to fall for it this time. He did say during his shpiel that there will be no Bill Collectors calling or no harrasment if i couldn’t afford the trip at the moment.
So I’m thinking since I fell for it the first time, but changed my credit card number, they didn’t have a way to charge me the balance of the trip ($600+) and that’s why they kept calling to get me to agree to the trip and charge me or try and make me an offer to good to be true so I could give my new Credit card #. I haven’t made a call to Ramada Inns or hotels to double check their claim but glad there were sites like this online to warn me.
Great story Arnold, Thanks for sharing that with us. Just infuriates me that they keep on at it. They kept phoning me too, and I know numerous other people too.
Thanks for posting.
These folks called my mom today but she wanted me to verify that they were legit and all I can say is that I’m so happy I came across your blog!
Thanks again,
*Sametra*
Glad to hear we saved you!
-They also called my girlfriend but she told them to call back at 5:30 after she discussed the details with me. they never called back. as for me….this was the 5th time they have tried to contact me so i finally caved and answered the phone.
I received one of the vouchers through the mail last month. I opened it and it just seemed to good to be true, so I threw it in a pile and forgot about it until today. I figured that I would do a search to see if it was in fact a scam as I had thought………sure enough, I found your page. I am glad that I had just tossed it aside. I am a single parent raising my boys on my own and would hate to simply throw my money away when it could be used for better things. Just goes to show that if you want a vacation, go to a respectable travel agent or do it yourself. Thanks again!!!!!!!!!
Can’t you press charges.
I thought I stated in the original posting, but in the fine print of their Terms and Conditions, they state that the initial deposit was non-refundable. If you, or anybody else knows a lawyer willing to take on this case, I would love to bring these people to justice.
Please forward any more information to me for I’d love to know how to combat these people. I would be greatly in debt to your kindness.
i’m glad i found this site too! i got a called a month ago and thought..WHAT A DEAL!! and as everyone here they said this is the first and ONLY time for this yeah right! I called them back today and they said the SAME thing! well to make a long story short i told them i didnt have the money and they said ok bye,i said well how do i know this isnt a scam? she said when u call back we will explain i said NO i want to know now and she said WHEN U CALL BACK THEY WILL EXPLAIN,AND HUNG UP!! So i called back and the guy was so nice as i explain what just happen UNTIL i said i didnt have the money and hung up too!!! So i came online to see if this was a scam and poop here i’am! I’m soooo sad bcuz i was saving up from last month when they called for the 118 and lookin to go on the cruise this coming nov for my b-day! can someone give me a good and LEGIT site i can get a cruise?
i jusy recieved voucher in mail today gave my debit number but nothing in my account so they said wiil call back in 30 days so gave me enough time to check them out. glad i found this page know must close my account now. anybody knows anything negative or positive please give me a call 618 447- 0994.
If it was me, I’d be running from the as quickly as possible.
I am sorry they were rude to you.
from the official cruise site, I went through
http://www.123gocruise.com
Customer Care
1-800-221-8200 – Toll free within the U.S. and Canada
Reservation Department
1-800-237-3503 – Toll free within the U.S. and Canada
I went and had a blast.
I got a call from the same thing, but they didn’t request that I have to pay right then and I have 18 months to use it. The number I got to call back whenever is 1.800.221.8200
Just got called again from these people. They tried their best to get their $59 each from me…but I googled them while I had them on the phone and ran across this blog. Thanks so much for the info!
Exactly same conversation.
Thanks you saved me $59 x2.
Got a call from: 1-800-610-5257.
Same B.S: I had won the prize, because of my participation in a survey.
I have 18 months to choose the dates.
Must pay $59 x 2 as port and reservation charges……………..Thank you
I just received a certificate for a cruise for two on Caribbean Cruise Line to Paradise Island Bahamas, out of Ft. Lauderale. We received the certificate from Georgia Flooring Direct when we bought a lot of flooring from this company and they were giving the cruises to customers who spent $500 or more. I have called the cruise line and asked what it was all about. I was told that it was for two adults, and all we had to pay was $59 each for port taxes. I was then told that we had 18 months to book the cruise. I did not give them any credit card information but they were very pushy for me to. I am glad that I came across this posting…thank you!
I got sucked in to this I gave them my credit card number for the 118 and when they were explaining the extra crap to me they mentioned the Alamo car rental u would get and that u need to be at least 19 years of age! Huge red flag there! I work for a car rental location in Canada and I know for a fact that u need to be at least 21 but u would be paying an underage fee if u are under 25. No rental car company will rent to an 18 year old. The risk is way to high! To add to that I know that car rentals in the states won’t rent to anyone under 25. Once I was told that info I immediately said I don’t want to go through with it and I want a refund. The manager said I would get one within 7 to 10 business days!
I await to see if you do infact get your money back! goodluck. I’m totally confused about this whole thing they’re doing now making you buy another few nights stay at a hotel, and get a car etc etc. Totally weird.
I was contacted in the same way as others have mentioned here… I was told that if I answered a 10 question survey I would win 2 boarding passes on a cruise for a 2 night 3 day stay all inclusive. I played in to their game. this far… (Keep in mind, I DO NOT get scammed easily or at all)… NO ONE gives anything away for free especially over the phone… I decided I would answer their survey provided there were no personal questions asked… which there weren’t. After the 10 questions which consisted of my age group, if I have children, if I smoke, if I have a water pump… questions like those… I was transferred to a lady who told me to verify my name and contact number and then I would be contacted to claim my FREE CRUISE in 24-72 hours. 2 days later the phone rang and gave me the phone number 1-800-610-5857 to call back or else I would lose out on my free trip.
Up until this part I was going along with their game… I called the number and a lady by the name of Nicola answered and told me to go to this website
http://www.grandcaribbeancl.com/ and made me watch the video clip that shows up in order for me to know what I was winning and getting into! I watched the video, read the articles on the website. I then was told that I would have nothing to pay except for 59$ for one person for port fees and 118$ for two people in order to get in and out of the country. The only other fees would be the gratuity fees as well as casino fees and alcohol. I was also told that the flight was not included, but she could provide me with a travel agent to get the best possible deal as to not waste this once in a lifetime opportunity.
I then asked if there was anyway I could discuss this with my husband first and call her back. She told me no as this is a one time chance and you only have THIS phone call in order to claim your prize. I told her that this was very fishy to me, if it is a prize and you are giving it away and you want to promote your “awesome cruise” then why not let me discuss it first? Are you so afraid to lose YOUR BIG OPPORTUNITY at my credit card number? She seemed taken aback and tried to explain that if I did not book now she could easily give it to someone else as I WAS tying up her phone line. Insulted, I immediately called her on her bluff, I told her that in order for her to get my credit card number I needed to know who I was giving it to, I demanded her company name, address and phone number and told her I would look her up while she stayed on the phone. (Seeing as she was willing to wait on the line while I talked with my husband, I figured she would not mind waiting while I looked HER and her COMPANY up). She then was quick at trying to make me divert my attention by telling me more about the cruise to not have the time to look up anything.
I told her that her whole deal was a scam and that even though they may be getting many gullible people seeing as the whole thing “SEEMS legitimate” I am not that easily fooled. She was very rude and seemed very aggravated at the fact that I have “found her out” She quickly told me to have a nice day and hung up.
My advice to anyone who might read this is NEVER, EVER , EVER give out any personal information over the phone to ANYONE at ANYTIME without looking them out and doing your research first. No matter what you do, unless you are certain without any reasonable doubt that they are credible and traceable just do NOT do it.
It is a freakin shame that these people do this and pry on the innocent and the ones who just are kind at heart and give in, in hopes that they actually win something… These people will stop at nothing to make money off of others instead of actually getting an education and a real job.
I sure hope that this message has helped someone, and if it has then I feel I have done my part in preventing this from happening to someone who like me is a hard working, deserving, sweet person who does not deserve to have our HARD EARNED money taken away for a scam.
Have a great day.
Savannah from Canada
Same old story Savannah, But thank you for sharing it with us! The more people that share, the better this blog becomes and makes more people aware of a) what a scam is,and b) what these people are trying to pull on us. I find it almost repulsive the ‘fear method’ they are putting into you with ‘no you cannot phone back’ and ‘this is a once in a lifetime opportunity you have here, many people would be so glad to have it’ bull.
Rest assured, your article has helped, there are over 100 people a day who find this article, and no doubt many of them find it very useful.
Thanks again.
Hi
I went on the caribbean cruise in December 2010 and had a great time. Everyone treated me and my family great. Just want to say thank you . and keep up the good work
Angel,
I’m happy to hear that you had a good time, did you notice that any of the things that other people have commented on in this blog were true? Like the ship being small and old, staff friendly but unable to accommodate you, etc.? Also, I would love if you could direct us to some pictures of your trip, so we could get a feel for what it looks like.
Thanks,
KK
They will keep calling back. I have won many times already. Each time I hang up they just call back again in a few days and act like they are calling me for the first time.
Brutal
Dave,
Next time that they call back, ask them kindly to remove you from their phone list. This is what happened to me, and asking them this worked like a charm, I haven’t received a call from them since. Good luck!
The most important is that all the employees on the ship let you feel like you are in paradise, was our first cruise and steal you have that flavor in your mouth.
Carlos, your english is hard to understand, but I assume you’re meaning that you still remember it with a good taste? I’m happy to hear that you had a good time, do you think you could share some of the photos of the actual ship with us so that we could see what the experience is like?
I just read some of the negative posts about this cruiseline and had to leave my comment. This is NOT a scam. I took my husband and went on this cruise in May 2009. We had the best time. We had never been on a cruise so this was our first. I also had reviewed all the bad comments before I went and was concerned that I had been scammed. On the ship the food was great and we had the best service you could possibly ask for. Yes the ship was a smaller ship but it was roomy enough and had all the extras the big ships do. The timeshare presentation was not too bad either. Our saleman took us on a tour of the marina while we were at the Palm Beach Resort. I enjoyed my Vacation so much that when I was contacted the other day for another one I decided to go and take 7
family members with me. I am looking forward to it!!
I’m happy to hear that the cruise worked out for you Sheila. That is awesome that you are bringing 7 friends with you! You are certainly a great family member of friend to do such a thing!
I would love, and most of the other people on this blog, would love to see some great photos that you get of the trip, to prove us wrong. Although, I must say, the reason for being uncomfortable with the company is mainly due to the way they handle themselves as a company. When I walk into a store, and I’m treated rudely, given ultimatums, and told I cannot come back to get the same deal, I walk out without looking back.
I hope the rest of your crew enjoys it as much as you!
It is a different company than the cruiseline that makes the offer you mention. So do not say the cruiseline is bad.
How can I say the cruiseline isn’t bad when it’s them that solicits the sales of these ‘free’ tickets? I haven’t once seen any photos of the ship, the ‘friendly’ customer service, or any other boarding passes from people, but I have read close to 200 other posts by people reporting the same horrible sales tactics that I have mentioned, which I have solid concrete evidence of.
For all I know, this sudden influx of visitors to the site are all coming from caribbean cruise line trying to make it look better. Honestly, I’m not buying it, and I doubt that most people that read this article won’t either. Just the fact that… lets say for simplicity sakes, just ten people had a bad time. That’s enough to turn me away. Not to mention the fact that there are over a dozen other sites out there that have mentioned how horrible a time, and how shotty the ship is that they go on.
I HAVE SAILED ON THE BAHAHAS CELEBRATION TWICE AND EXPECT TO SAIL AGAIN THIS DECEMBER AS I HAD A BALL BOTH TIMES.THE FOOD WAS VERY GOOD,THE ENTERTAINMENT WAS VERY GOOD AND THE SERVICE COULD NOT HAVE BEEN BETTER.MY WIFE HAS HAD TWO STROKES AND SHE HAS TROUBLE WALKING AND USING HER LEFT ARM.WHEN WEWERE EATING THE WAITER AT A DIFFERANT TABLE NOTICED MY WIFE WAS HAVING TROUBLE CUTTING HERE MEAT AND HE CAME OVER AND CUT IT UP.EACH TIME WE WENT THEY WENT OUT OF THERE WAY TO SATISFY US.ALSO THE PORT CHAGES DONOT GO TO THEM,THEY HAVE NO CONTROL OF THAT AND THE SURCHARGES FOR TIPS IF THEY DID NOT CHARGE THIS I WOULD HAVE TIPED MORE.ALL TOGETHER THISIS A TERIFIC TRIP FOR SOMEONE JUST TRYING CRUISING ORSOMEONE WITH VERY LITTLE TIME IT IS A VERY GOOD VALUE.
I agree with Elliot F. In fact I am booked on a second cruise next month. It is a great experience. These other people may have been scammed, but not likely. Better for us!!…Their loss…
My old friend John, I thought you had gone away! I happy to hear you’ll be escaping again on a cruise in the Bahamas! That’s great for you!
I’d love if you would share with us some photos of the trip so we could see for ourselves what you’re dealing with. I’ve had people on here complain about how bad the service was and the state at which the ship is in.
I would love to see some great photos of the trip so everybody can know what they are getting tricked into doing!
Once again, this post is not about the actual service that the company gives, or the fact that the cruise is enjoyable, it’s the fact that the way the sales team tricks a person from a free cruise into a cruise that costs just as much as any other cruise out there. I dislike any sales tactic that goes by these means, and in my initial blog post, I have clearly stated that reason for my distress and annoyance.
Right you stated the facts. But remember there are people out there that may enjoy this wonderful offer. As I have stated my cruise offer came off the TV, and I never had such an offer mailed to me.
You want pictures, of our happy cruise, okay fair. But then I would like to see you at the port without a ship.
I’m not sure I understand your offer John, nor do I think I need to provide anything for this situation. It is you who is vehemently supporting this company who has attempted to take money from hundreds on this blog, and no doubt hundreds more elsewhere.
For all you customers out there that loved the cruise, please post photos so I can see that it’s real. I’m not asking you “prove” anything. I just want to see the cruise. I always take a lot of pictures on vacation of the scenery and my family at different places so there should be some pictures you can show. Just post a link to them on this blog. It’s real easy. Thanks so much.
You were lucky to lost just $118 with those guys (carriageway cruise line)
In my case they stole from me $600 and give nothing in return on top of that they demanded $900 more.
Looks like company is totally changes to bad direction for last 3 years..
About 4 years ago I have a good experience with them. for $600 I got a good package for 4 peoples for 6 nights 2 – in Fort lauderdale in Florida 2 on cruise and 2 in Orlando. However 1 day we lost – because real payer for that deal was time sharing company and the tried to convince us to buy useless condos in Orlando,but it was ok..
3.5 years ago they call me again and offered exactly the same deal *as they promised)
I paid $600 again, but after one year they suddenly changed their mind – when I tried to use my deal they demanded $900 more. I refused to pay. Last 4 months they keep calling me 3 times a day demanding that $900..
Kirill
I just got the same offer in the mail and it looks too good to be true, I thought it’s a product of this bad economy where they’re trying to find a market but after reading the blogs, it looks like it’s been around for quite sometime.
My comment is that I feel really sorry for the sales people who probably don’t know that they’re been used to promote a lie and make a living out of it, if they now, then shame on them.
Thank you, you saved me.
That is a horrible story Kirill! I never like to hear that, and I wish there was something we could do. I wonder what it would take to bring a lawsuit against these guys…
Edith said: “I doubt anyone will get a chance to read this aside from you of course…” I do not know, my posts have not been removed from here. I took the cruise, and loved it. Maybe you used profanity or something else that made it necessary to remove your post. I agree to a point these people should contact the BBB or someone. It seems that they are not since these people are not mentioning that on here.
John B,
No I didn’t use any profanity the writer of the blog couldn’t stand that I caught him contradicting himself.. He is making most of this up just because he thinks it is a scam. I poosted i went on the cruise and enjoyed it he then accused me of working for the company and being mad because I wouldn’t be able to scam people thanks to his blog.. I am in no way affiliated with the company. I just enjoyed the cruise and don’t think people who never even went on it should make others think it is a scam.
Edith,
As I explained the first time, this post is not about the cruise itself, or the quality of the cruise (although there have been many posts on here explaining the quality of the boat, and the fact that even if the service representatives could do something they cannot because it’s above the abilities of the actual converted ferry), but it’s about the fact that this company offers something, promises something, then cannot perform, and really does nothing at all to compensate for the fact that they could not offer what they promised.
Like my original post explains, it starts off by a ‘free cruise’ , which then turns into one with port fees, and then taxes, and then traffic’ing, and then to get the room that I want (even though I explicitly said I’ll be going during this time, are you 100% sure it’ll be available: “Oh yes of course, there is no black out dates sir, except this and this a time”) I need to upgrade with a package that will cost me another $600.
To be honest, with these kind of tactics, I remove my service from ANY company, be it Sport Check, Red Robin, Sears, or whatever. I do not accept this kind of service, and I will never degrade myself to submit to this kind of service.
I removed your posts because of your hostility towards my information I am providing here as well as over a hundred others information, and your ignorance to the fact that its not me submitting the 300 comments on this post, but random people from around the world who are. Granted I respond to each of them, so that will make 150 posts that have come from unsatisfied people who have thanked me because they have also been dealt the same cards as I have.
Finally, I will not degrade my blog to name calling and accusations, which is another reason why I have removed most of your posts, but I am leaving this one up because it will represent your voice in the matter. Maybe somebody will think that because you have had a good time, and John B of course, that that is all the reason they need to hand over their money to this company.
You may have enjoyed your cruise, and I’m very happy for you that you did get to experience the Caribbean, it is a very lovely place to spend time. Seeing those teal blue waters is something amazing to experience. Please do not attempt to call me, and everybody else that has taken the time to share their experiences with me and the rest of the internet, a fool, or a lying hypocrite for I will not stand for it.
Went on Bahama Celebration for anniversay totally enjoyed it so recommended for sister weekend. Went on sisters weekend cruise in Dec. everyone had great time. Highly recommend this cruise.
Cindy, that’s great to hear that you had such a good time! Would you care to disclose some more information to us about why you enjoyed it so much? Did you find that any of the things we have mentioned in this blog were true, and that they just didn’t bother you, or did you not experience any of them at all? How was the condition of the SS Bahamas?
It would be really nice to see some pictures..
To: angel Goodman, sheila Harwood and the others who posted that it is not a scam…
How stupid do you think we are??? Right now, prove to me that you were on a cruise show me the pics… do you honestly think we do not know that you are hired to come here and post positive things about it? If you noticed just in the way you talk about the ship you all have the same post just in more or less words… no two people would write exactly alike!!! An ordinary person would give out more details about it and would not be afraid to post pictures… You are still sounding like you are promoting!! Give me a break! If you are really convinced that this is not a scam then you need to hire better people at proving so…. Me telling you this might make you find a way to try and prove it by stealing pictures online of other peoples cruises but let me tell you one thing… NO ONE gives away free trips over the phone!!! NO ONE!!!! and just in this last month I know personally of 5 people who have been reached by this scam…You can keep trying to scam, and yes you will continue to sucker people in because unfortunately there will always be susceptible people out there… but know this…. soon, yes soon someone will shut you down!!!
“…Me telling you this might make you find a way to try and prove it by stealing pictures online of other peoples cruises…”
So you are saying that even if we show picture proof YOU would not believe that we took the cruise? In addition the moderator does not have any way for us to post the pictures on this site.
You are right, John, that I haven’t allowed you to post pictures onto the site, but image links (ie. ) should work, as well as links to other sites such as a flickr or photobucket postings. I know this is slightly annoying and you have no commitment to this site to show them, but it would ease a lot of peoples minds to have these photos. They speak a thousand words.
Thank you Savannah for your opinions and emotions. I agree that their posts do sound very fishy, and I am very skeptical myself. Do we bypass the innocent until proven guilty standard here, or do we ignore this old axiom of American liberty.
However, I have shown evidence here of the scam that has happened to me, and I get hundreds of people a day searching and finding this post a day, so that kind of proves to me that this is a major national scam going on here.
So, I feel they now have to prove to me they are not part of the payroll…
“…So, I feel they now have to prove to me they are not part of the payroll…”
Okay let us reverse this…prove to us that you are not working for a rival cruise line. And that the other posters are not other employees (or even you!).
WOW! We paid $650 for our trip and everything was great. The only negetive thing was the food at the Ft. Lauderdale Marriot Hotel that we stayed at for two nights. The cruise was wonderful! The ship is extremely nice. I believe that it is rather small compared to others that we have been on but afterall you are only sailing 90 miles. Aboard ship the crew couldn’t not have been more accomadating. The weather was very cold so they had their work cut out for them to keep us all happy. The food was extremely good. Also included in the four night 5 day trip was 2 more nights to be spent in Orlando. We chose to take that at a later date. Check in and check out for the cruise was extremely well orgainzed. We only wished that the trip could have lasted longer. However, it was cold even in the Bahamas. We took this trip the first week in December of 2010. I would highly recommend it expecially for a first time cruise. We are well seasoned cruisers and we just wanted a little get a way trip and it was perfect!
Thank you for sharing your experience with us Oscar.
So to sum it up:
-free cruise costs $650 for only a 90 mile cruise
-accommodating crew and an ‘extremely nice’ ship that is ‘rather small’
-’extremely good’ food
-recommended for first time cruisers
-also got two nights stay in Orlando
-mention of two nights in Ft. Lauderdale bad food.
I’m curious why everybody that says it’s a great cruise recommends it only for first time cruisers… I think my skepticism speaks for itself..
Smells of a shameless plug..
Hi I just wanted to say I have been on the Caribean Cruise in 2000 and 2009 we are coming back to America again in 2012 for the cruise again, It was one of the best part of our holidays the staff were fantastic the food was fabulous and the Behamams was unreal the people were beautiful, A very big Thankyou to the Carribean Crusies for our wonderful trips and we are really looking forward to the next one, the last 2 trips were with our daughters and the next one will be with my brother and sister inlaw and maybe 3 others friends, I know they will have a fabulous time aboard the carribean Cruise we certainly did thanks again for letting us share our holiday experience. Regards Leonie John Wendi-Lee and Rebecca
I fail to believe that this company has been in business for 11 years, I think you may have gotten this mixed up with another cruise line. But, I have not done my research and do not really feel like wasting my time more than responding to this blog. so….
I had this happen to me yesterday and unfortunately I did not read your blog before handing over my cc, now $150 later I want it back.they said no, no I canceled my debit card and reported it stolen. I’ve really got myself in a pickle and need advice. I couldn’t sleep and am just sick about the whole thing.
You should tell the credit card company the story of what happened, point them at this blog, tell them they wont give you your money back, and say i don’t want this to go through. As long as its still the weekend, banks usually don’t process stuff until Monday. Good luck!
it was the best vacation i ever had an the employees were great theywere friendly and helpfull in had the best time on that cruise and wouldnt trade it for nothing i would go again i would just love for my husband and 3 kids to go on one with me they would really enjoy it but it is hard because we dont really have the money for all of to go on one all together thank you so much for yall’s help and the fun time i had thanks kelly hollingsworth
so if you ever want to go on a cruise go on the celabration cruise i had a great time i would go again i lov it that is a dream vacation
Good to hear kelly, glad to hear somebody had a good time.
I would like to know if the people that enjoyed their cruise paid $59 a person.
John, You are omitting the fact that $59 per person wasn’t all that you had to pay. Why don’t you tell us about the other fees that you had to pay when the cruise was all said and done?
John, You are omitting the fact that $59 per person wasn’t all that you had to pay. Why don’t you tell us about the other fees that you had to pay when the cruise was all said and done?
You are right. The $59 was the port taxes (had to pay up front, as with any other cruise line). They did disclose the fact that there were other fees (excursions, liquer, and gift items) they did mention that I had to tip the staff. So besides the airfare (not included) I paid about $200 over the $118 port fees. As I have taken cruises before, this was a pretty good price.
Yes, it was a good price, but at what point did you admit to yourself it was no longer a free cruise?
I wish I had read your website before I was sucker into this so called free cruise on caribbean cruise lines. They got my money, $448.00, and at time of my booking the cruise there is additional $188.00. I have read all of the replies, and became very scared that I was really scammed. Can any one tell me if they actually took the cruise, and what were any other expenses, and how much? I called my bank and they said I should cancell my debit card and get a new one. They said I have to dispute it after it is posted. at this time it is pending, they can not just take it off. I also went through all the questions, I kept telling them that I thought it was a scam. But somehow I got talked into it. I feel so very stupid. I was told there was a secured website,
http://www.4funvacation.com. When you try to log in you must give your password. I was’t able to get on, because they said it would take at least 72 hours. I was given a customer service number 1-800-221-8200, called this number and was told I could’t get my money back. They said they would guarantee the deposit, if we took the trip, and did’t like it. They are at this time suppose to send me an e-mail stating that. Guess I will wait and see. Not holding my breath. I was also given website
http://www.grandcaribbeancl.com, and when you look at that, it appears to look great. I was given up to 2 years to use this, and I also received 3days and 2nights in Las Vegas, and 4 days and 3 nights in Porta Viarta, also free car rental from Alamo, for 7 days unlimited milage. I can also stay at Ramanda Main in Orlando, 3 days and 2 nights. I first talked to John Hollaway, then he gave me to a so called manager named Sandy. Then to confirm I was given to Alfie Roberts. So now after reading all the replies, I am very scared and upset. Please could someone out there that actually took the cruise, to let me know how it was, what it was like, what other costs there was. I guess I am just hoping that I did’t completely get taken. Will you please respond.
Gayle,
There are some people who are making an effort to inform users on this blog that they did indeed go on the trip and it was great. Some people have mentioned that they’ve looked at other websites and found many more blogs that have reported this and have pictures to show you of how it looks. For me, my main problem was that their sales tactics were horrible, and we even have a former employee of the company who described how much the management team blinded them and brainwashed them, and even didn’t get paid for her work done there.
So, for me, like I have said, when this kind of stuff is being done to me, when I am treated like this, and put through the ‘confusion sell’ sales techniques, I’m very annoyed and don’t take it. For you, since you’ve already invested quite a large sum in it already, I suggest to stop paying them money, but try and get the best out of it!
Please come back and tell us what happens as a result of everything! Good luck Gayle.
Another lesson I want to convey to you is from the stock market; I have learned that there is a point where you feel that just around the corner, if you just wait another day or two, everything will turn around and you’ll be happy again. I feel this can be applied to your situation, stop handing them money, and refuse to pay them more money for upgrades, or better cabins, or extra car rental etc. and focus on ways that you can get the most you can out of your trip without forking over money to them.
Because the CCL policy states that only the initial $59 is non-refundable, you might still be able to get a refund on the other fees that you paid, and I would read over their terms of service so you know what your going to be saying to them to try and get this money back. If you read a few more posts on this site you’ll find a few tactics that have worked for some people. If that doesn’t work, I would phone the visa or Mc company that you paid with and tell them the story and ask them if there is anything that you can do to correct this and get your money back. Sometimes they are pretty understanding.
You can get your money back! They are liars, they lied and told you what you wanted to hear to get your money, they are going to continue lying to keep your money. They say that policy states they can’t give you a refund but by Florida state law they have to issue you a refund within the first 30 days of purchase of vacation packages and cruises. They will lie to you and tell you they can’t but you have to be as persistent as they are and don’t give up. My uncle is a lawyer, he told me you can’t give up, if you have to just keep saying the same thing repeatedly until they cave and give you your money back. Hope this helps, if I can find a link to Florida law that states that I will asap.
Hi,
I did get all of my money back. It’s definitely possible, and what they’re doing is definitely illegal. I didn’t get any help from forums like this one, people never really responded to me. But here is what I posted on ripoffreport.com:
I went through a lot of grief with this company, and I want everyone who is fighting for a refund know that THERE IS HOPE! I got a full refund, it officially showed up on my credit card today.
Florida law says they must refund you, no questions asked, withing 30 days of purchase. I did all this within that 30-day window. I’ve read about many people who have gotten refunds after that, even after going on the miserable vacation, so it is still possible, but I’m sure it’s more difficult. My advice is, don’t put it off. Better yet, STAY AWAY from Caribbean Cruise Lines (or whatever name they’re going by at the time. They change names a lot. The main name is Ramada Plaza Resorts)
.
MY ADVICE
If you feel helpless and think you can’t get a refund, please read this. Here is the thing, folks. These people are trained to prevent cancellations. After everything I went through with them, I clearly saw a pattern. When you are referred to a “specialist”, that is just a person who is TRAINED to convince you to not cancel. This is the process I noticed:
1. They “remind” you of the amaaaaazing vacation package you have purchased before you ever say anything. They congratulate you on it, then ask why you are calling and how they can help you (the “specialist” knows damn straight why you are calling. You were transferred to them because you are cancelling)
2. They try to reason with you. They act shocked that you want to cancel. Then they ask you for reasons. They try to make you feel like cancelling such a fabulous trip is ridiculous.
DO NOT REASON WITH THEM. I learned this by the third time I called. Don’t feed the fire. Everything they ask you, just say, “I just decided it was not for me, and I want to CANCEL MY PACKAGE”
3. If you’re still not budging, they will tell you something about a noncancellation policy, or they will say that the cancellation period for your state has passed. Too bad, no refund for you. DON’T FALL FOR IT!
4. If you still are persistent, they will just give you any and every reason why a refund is not possible.
STAND FIRM. It’s very possible. EVERYTHING the specialist says is to try to discourage you and make you feel like you don’t know what you’re talking about, and a refund is not possible.
I was discouraged and gave up the first few times I called them because I wasn’t informed. I figured a refund just isn’t possible. They want you to believe that. The final time I called, I figured out there was a pattern to all of it. I saw that they put you through this wringer to make you feel that way.
Here is how I suggest you talk to them:
Specialist: “Wow! You have such a great vacation. Congratulations! It’s so amazing it includes _______, __________ and ________! Now, how may I help you?”
Customer: “I want to CANCEL MY PACKAGE.”
Specialist: “Cancel?! Why would you want to do that?”
Customer: “I just decided it was not for me, and I want to CANCEL MY PACKAGE”
Specialist: “But there has to be a reason! People don’t just call and say they want to cancel a vacation!”
Customer: “No, it’s really just not for me. I want to CANCEL MY PACKAGE”
Specialist: “So, a relaxing vacation to the Bahamas is not for you? Relaxation and fun is not for you?”
CUstomer: “Correct. I want to CANCEL MY PACKAGE”
Specialist: “But it sounds like there is something you’re not telling me! Why would anyone just suddenly decide it’s not for them?”
Customer: “It’s just not. I want to CANCEL MY PACKAGE.”
You get the idea. They push you to the limit. Don’t reason with them. Be firm. Be persistent. Be polite. You will get your money back.
.
MY EXPERIENCE:
(For the record, I am a journalist and I consider myself to be a very level-headed, cautious person. After buying this, I sat back in awe of how fast I was pushed into this without doing much research. I’m wiser for it, but I will never again judge anyone who buys into these types of scams.)
I registered for the “free” cruise and purchased an extended-stay package after being promised a ‘ ‘Spectacular Extended Stay’ ‘ vacation.
The names “Ramada” and “Carmen Electra” falsely led me to believe this was a quality vacation. I later learned my accommodations include two sub-standard hotels and my “award-winning” cruise ship is an old ferry boat.
The Internet is full of dissatisfied customers, governmental warnings and litigation.
Upon booking, one of the many people I talked to said refunds were indeed possible. That was part of the reason why I agreed to buy it. I figured I had nothing to lose. After buying I got on the internet and it took me a whole 3 seconds to see what a scam the whole thing was.
I contacted the company just hours after purchasing to cancel my trip and request a refund. The person I spoke with, “Robert,” said he can’t cancel my trip because the company has a non-cancellation policy and said no one would’ve told me otherwise (pretty much called me a liar). I was never made aware of such a policy. If it exists, it violates Florida’s Sellers of Travel Act, which says it’s illegal for any seller of travel to “fail or refuse to honor a purchaser’s vacation certificate request to cancel if such request is made within 30 DAYS from the date of purchase or receipt of the vacation certificate, whichever occurs later.”
I called the company again the next day and spoke with “Frank”. I again asked to cancel. He said his company had a non-cancellation policy. When I cited Florida law, he said it doesn’t apply because his company only has to follow whatever refund law my state (Ohio) has.
I was feeling a little discouraged at that point. I contacted several lawyers, who all said the company is in Florida and is BOUND BY FLORIDA LAW. PERIOD.
Last week, I decided to give them one last chance to give me a refund before I disputed the charge with my credit card company and filed complaints with the BBB, Floirda Attorney General, etc.
I spoke with “Angela”, a “specialist” from customer service. She repeatedly asked why I want to cancel.
She told me about a 3-day policy in Ohio for refunds, saying I passed the period. I was not eligible for a refund anymore. I said I called THE VERY DAY I bought the package as well as the next day and was told cancelling was not possible. I was not told about the 3 day rule.
She said that’s because thats because I called the wrong number. I was only supposed to call one specific “customer service” number. Since I called a different number, it doesn’t matter what was said. I was SOL.
I was pleasant and polite at first, but as time went on we began arguing. Her patience was tried I guess when I repeatedly told her her company MUST abide by state law and give me a refund. She kept saying no, that’s not the case. Finally she copped a defensive attitude and said “I know the law. I don’t need you to cite the law to me. We are a large corporation, I know the law. DO NOT RECITE THE LAW TO ME.”
With that, she said, “In fact, I am transferring you to a supervisor.”
I felt completely helpless at that point, because it all seemed to be going in circles.
After a long hold, I was transferred to a supervisor. She didn’t say hi or anything, she seemed to be reading off a script. She asked me to verify my name and address, told me I would get a full refund of $698 within 7-10 business days and gave me a cancellation number.
I thought it was way too easy. I was still skeptical. But I waited. Well, it has been exactly 7 days, and I have received a FULL REFUND.
So, please don’t give up and let them make you feel like an idiot.
Thanks for all the information Samantha. Very helpful.
I was an idiot and fell for the scam yesterday.. I am struggling financially right now. I called today and tried to get a refund and they said they would not give refunds.. I kept asking and the woman said she was going to hang up. I became very frustrated I feel kind of helpless right now =0 (I am only 18 almost 19) i paid the $118. Thank you for writing this. If you could possibly help with more info to get a refund I would very much appreciate it.. please email me at
danielledawn77@gmail.com
thanks!!
Danielle, You must phone immediately and cancel either that payment, or your mastercard that you gave for the payment. Hopefully it’s not to late.
Thanks for the heads up! Just receive my ‘free cruise’ in the mail and it’s on it’s way to the trash!
Thanks again!
Upon discovering this, she immediately called the company back and requested a refund. They flat-out denied her request, stating the company has a ‘no refunds’ policy. She cited the Florida state law “Sellers of Travel Act” section 559.933 which covers vacation certificate cancellation and refund provisions. This reads: “–It shall be unlawful for any seller of travel or assignee: (1) To fail or refuse to honor a purchaser’s vacation certificate request to cancel if such request is made: (a) Within 30 days from the date of purchase or receipt of the vacation certificate, whichever occurs later.” It goes on but this is the part that applies to our situation. The rep then told my fiancé that they do not have to observe this statute since she does not live in Florida (she lives in Ohio).
Glad to hear you were saved!
I am so glad i found this site, same thing happen to me. I got a call from 1-800-6105257 several times, i just won a free cruise from the survey i did over the phone. got a call this morning again and I said i have to do a research first, sounds too good to be true, they gave me the number to call back to their supervisor. Now i have something to tell them.
Thanks for the insights
I wish I had seen your emails first …but I am mouse impaired! I was fooled because the offer came thru a company I deal with regularly and have had no complaint with and said this was a reward I had thru them. Also, I was trying to do something great for someone great in my family…not myself! I am an older woman who had a terribble senior moment when I accepted this offer. They promised me I would get the information from them in short order by mail. Well passed that time, I called and tried to cancel because I had no more trust in their credibility! They told me I COULD NOT cancel! I called a specialist who had given ” his private number and name” he told me to call and demand to speak to the manager and get back to him if I still had any problems. The agent in the call center insisted that no one had anymore authority than he did. At my instistance they transferred me through to two other people. I was on the line a long time holding and got NO WHERE! So I called “the private name and number ” again and told him if it was not cancelled I would call the Attorney General’s Office in my State. He told me not to worry he would handle it for me and call me right back. Nothing more happened for two weeks until I recieved the package in the mail. So I thought since my cards have already been charged and paid for, for the trip, I would give it to my family member for their trip. THEY found all this “scammy” stuff online! Keep the word going out and I will do such as I can to get the word out from my end! I am afraid that my money is gone! I have cancelled my cards and told them why!
Gullable old Lady {(dicated to someone who is not mouse impaired }
That totaly sucks. companies like this are what make the world a worse place. There should be sever punishment for this kind of stuff.
I was a victem of this exact scam this morning. I fell for it, I feel like an idiot.
so now we’re out 566$ and I called to cancel many times and finally one person agreed to refund 50%… so i agreed… but she didnt give me a cancellation # so I called back and omitted that I previously cancelled and requested the 50% refund. So I talk to this lady (much nicer than ALL of the other one..they were beyong rude and they argued with me and YELLED at me..) anyways so I asked for a full refund she agreed after rambling about a whole lot of BS.. and gave me my cancellation #
Im waiting to see if they come through and refund the money. I really hope so. I feel so helpless.
anyone fall for this and recieve a refund? or were told they were going to get one and didnt?????????
I haven’t heard if anybody has, this has been the first time I’ve heard of it. I’m happy to hear you at least got 50% of it back! But to bad you laid down so much more. Thats a total bummer.
I went through the exact same thing! I agreed to the $118 charge but backed out and started googling them when another guy came on and began pressuring me to buy the $600 vacation package. He then offered to halve it, which really set off my alarms, and so I backed out.
My credit card company, Chase, refunded me the $118 when I explained that it was a scam and they required another $600 to get what I actually paid for. The Chase rep who called me approved my request when I agreed to let him put me on hold and call the company. They gave the Chase rep the same treatment as you guys, at which point he came back on the phone and agreed to my refund.
So I suggest to everyone to just go to your credit card companies and explain the situation.
i purchased the package. i never recieved an email conformation. even tho i know its a scam i still want to try to go ont he vacation.. since i paid for it!! is this even possible..? how do i contact them? has neone gone on the cruise yet?
I had to wait a while for the confirmation, but it did eventually come. After about 2 months I did eventually get the package in the mail too. I still got phone calls from the company for some time afterwards until I finally answered and gave the operator a piece of my mind.
If you read further up in this blog, you should be able to get contact information. But if you read about how you can actually go on the cruise, usually it involved upgrading the package. Good luck.
So did you ever go on the cruise? I have an envelope at the moment that contains tickets – the first is the congratulatory note, the second is the Travel Credit Voucher for Caribbean Cruise Line with a value of $1,300.00, consists of the cabin class, confirmation number, etc., and the last page is the free Cruise Voucher. I just received this in the mail in an envelope. I Googled, found several responses and thought your response was worth replying to. Please share you thoughts. Thank You.
I read your concerns regarding this company and I want to say “THANK YOU” because they tried to get me today and I basically got off the phone with them.
I knew something was not right when he told me this is the only opportunity I have and he wanted my husbands name. Which I told him that I would not give at this time.
Well, he basically hung up the phone on me when I said I had to call him from a different phone.
Oh well, that’s a bonus for me
I have paid 118$ when I was asked, However, I didnt get ‘free’ offer or anything like that, I was simply looking for a cheap cruise, thats what I was looking for. a cheap trip to Bahamas, n its what I came accross. I didnt get package in the mail cuz I didnt ask for it, I wanted access online, and they gave it to me, and on it it shows upgrades, and dates of sailing. They were pushy trying to get me to spend more money, and I said I just want what I paid for $118 and I hung up the phone. Since then I called asking questions, and they were always nice and havent tried to sell me anything since.
Seems like here the only people that have some experience, are the ones that paid money, and took the cruise.
Its so crazy to hear all of your stories, I guess I can understand ur frustration if something is supose to be FREE and you end up paying for it, waaaay too much money!
But we didnt pay a lot of money, and we didnt win free anything. Just a cheap cruise… That Im now terrified to go on.
We will see, and if we end up going, I promise, in aug, u will see some pics..
if ever go lol
I hope to hear back from you Ana, and if you’re looking for a cheap cruise, i think you’ve found it! I pretty sure they do actually do a cruise, but what the purpose of this blog post is, is to make people aware this this ‘free’ cruise isn’t by any stretch of the imagination a free cruise, and you’ll end up paying a lot of money for something you weren’t really interested needing or wanting in the first place.
I hope your trip goes great!
Thank you so much for posting this, I received a voucher in the mail yesterday for a “FREE” cruise and a Travel Credit Voucher for $1,300! I was hesitant as soon as I opened the envelope because I had never given my information out anywhere for any cruise line company or affiliate. Then there was the $1300 look-a-like check…$1300…really! RED FLAGS!!! But it all looks legite the font looks like a real cruise ticket and check. Thank god I found this, after reading your post and a few comments I went back to their website and looked at the terms and conditions and came across a lot of contradictions. But thanks again…you saved me!!!
o and thanks for not abandoning your blog after all this time
THank you for your support Kryssi And yes, its quite a scam, they even have Carmen Electra on their webpage to do a cameo on how great the site is…
I just got a letter same thing.
Fine print on back of ticket.
We reserve the right to charge a fuel supplement of $9.00 per person per day,
if sweet crude oil is more than $40.00 @ barrel.
It has not be that cheap in 15 years.
Caribbean Cruiselines “quote” at bottom of ticket.
This advertising material is being used for the purpose of soliciting salers
of a vacation ownership plan.
SPIDERS LARE YOU WILL NEVER GET OUT!!!!!
Greetings;
If you want a REAL cruise, on a REAL cruise line (5 star), Princess Cruises has some fabulous deals right now. Check their website PRINCESS.COM I have sailed them 24 times and they are FIRST CLASS.
Here is a reference from their latest email:
During March, 2011, 7 night cruise from San Juan $299 interior, $349 outside, $599 balcony (per person, plus $60 taxes).
Check them out. Cruising is a WONDERFUL vacation, and you can book directly with Princess. You can Google Princess and see who they are.
Happy cruising,
Nice to have some information on here to compare with. I agree, I have done a Princess Cruise before, and it is a fairly nice experience. Nice boat, nice crew, nice food.
Thanks for the blog! I received these ‘free tickets’ in the mail today and it sounded so fishy I went straight on the web to read about it and see what kind of scam it was (or if by some miracle it wasn’t, then at least I could check to see how the cruise was). Obviously after reading this they just went straight in the recycling bin…
Also, is it a coincidence that nearly all the people talking about how positive the cruise was for them seem to make tons of English mistakes (the kind that make it seem as if you’re just not an English speaker where you spell stuff as a stranger would hear it, like liquer) and seem to write everything so hastily often with no dots or capitals compared to most others who actually take time to write properly even if they make mistakes once in a while (I might very well have made some myself)?
It looks so much as what employees of a company would do to quickly answer on blogs like these because it’s part of their job and not because they care. I have nothing against people making typos or the like on blogs and I realize a lot of people type fast, but the fact that there seems to be such a drastic difference between ‘people’ supporting the cruise and others is quite suspicious. After all, most people who actually go on cruises are adults and do not type as if they were teenagers.
Patccmoi, these are very good points. I have noticed this correlation as well and I think we’ve made mention about it on this blog. I also see a correlation between the quality of positive posts and the literacy level of the people that I’m talking to on the phone, alog with the education level the full pressure sales tactics used by the sales team implies.
Happy you found out what its all about before you got stuck with the bill!
I’m so thankful for this site and these reviews. I was googling CLL scam, and began reading this post as the lady called me today giving me the same sales pitch she gave all of you. Im reading along with her about all the blackout dates she stated and you guys said the same as well as the port fees. I cut her off as soon as she asked me to give her my CC information, I didnt let her give me any more info because I knew then something wasnt right. I told her I dont make impulse decisions, so have a great day. I used to be in sales, so I know the tricks, and I watch Amercian Greed:Scams on CNBC every week so I know the signs. If they call your house, tell them you arent interested because like everyone else said, its a scam. I was also a banker so if you already have signed up for this and want your money back, its easy dont call them, call your bank ( if you used debit card, FYI never use debit to hold reservations, if something goes wrong it takes the bank longer to get cash back) or your CC company ASAP, and tell them you want to dispute a charge. Tell them you did not authorize the charge, and they will get it credited back to your account. Its pointless to call the CLL, they will just give you the run around as all other merchants do when you want a refund. Let your CC company or bank hash it out with them. Thanks again, this saved me 30 minutes of wasted time!
“…If they call your house, tell them you arent interested because like everyone else said, its a scam. …”
You must not have read all the posts on this site. I suggest you do so, as I had a great cruise.
Thanks for your input John. There are over 300 posts on this article now, and your one of less than 10 that had a great time. Odds aren’t in your favor…
thank you for posting this…. I did the survey on line and sure enough I got the call a few days later… but wasn’t able to talk to them at that time… Tonight i received another call… and as I am going through reading what you had posted… the person on the other line almost word for word stated the SS Bahama Celebration the $59.00 port fee per person to pay up front to hold my spot for booking later… and if I wanted to add up to two more it would be an additional $350 per person plus all tax and fees… and the best part is no Pass port is needed… (Yea right) So I asked a few common questions and then if they were associated with Mayjestic and she became very resistant to answer any of my additional questions… Then of course she asked which of my credit cards I would use to hold my reservation and I told her I had unanswered questions and before I gave any of that out I wanted them answered and then was told that someone else would have to call me to answer those… and she hung up… so I called the 800 number that came up on my caller ID and it is a not in service number… best way to handle a lot of these scams if you are in doubt is ask for a number that you can call back, call the Better Business office in your home town they are more than happy to check these out and give you the green or red light and if they handle it for you and it sends up flags to them… they have the power to shut them down… and if you don’t want to go that route, ask for a phone number to call them back at, and an address to their office… if they can’t provide that information, then its a scam, if they can provide them, use the net to look them up first, some of the 800 numbers are now routed through 3rd world countries, charging the caller $3.00+ a minute and there is nothing you can do to not pay that bill… but when in doubt I use the BBB to investigate some of these calls… some are good but many are bad.. your gutt usually is correct follow it….
Smart trick, I think I said in my original posting that I did file with the BBB of Florida, but I never heard anything in return from it. Oh well, apparently they have a record…
Thanks for your input.
stupid! stupid! stupid! I had registered for a free cruise at a website online so when the call came, I thought this was it! I went ahead and gave them my info and then read your blog…$118! Immediately, I called the 800 # they gave me and after several minutes I got a customer care representative. I told her I had an emergency and needed the money back immediately! They went on to tell me how wonderful the cruise was and that I had 18 mo.s to take it! I told them I didn’t care how wonderful it was, i needed my money back today! Latrice put me back on hold and I waited frantically wondering if I could get to the bank before it closes tonite. Finally she came back on, repeated to tell me what a great deal it was but they didn’t want to cause me hardship…I definitely gave the impression that my life depended on the 118.oo which frankly it would if my husband knew. She said they were crediting my account and it would appear on my statement in 7-10 days. She gave me a cancelation # so we’ll see. Lord willing I haven’t lost it! Again, stupid stupid stupid!
ouch. I would, If I was you, also put a cancel on it on your credit card, phone the bank and tell them what happened, and that you don’t want it to go through. Point them to this page, and get them to phone them yourself. I’m glad to hear they gave you your money back.
ps. If you’re an idiot, then so am I. I like to think I’m not, so by pure reasoning, neither are you!
I just hung up the phone after being informed I was gonna be charged 898 dollars and then went on line and found this…. I’m so glad I didn’t give my numbers.
Wow, right off the bat it was going to be $898, crazy. First time I’ve heard that. Glad to hear you didn’t go for it. Thanks for sharing Sarah.
Thank you all for your reviews! I too got a call last week, did the survey, and >1 week later did get a very polite sales pitch. He kept me on the phone long enough talking about the blue waters, etc, to entice me further, and even talked about the weather in New England. The slight twist to what other have said was that after explaining that this was a FREE trip for two and that the only charges would be for beverages, he said that all he needed was $99 per person for port charges, and then mentioned something about $217 (at this point I didn’t know if that was per person or total, it didn’t matter anymore). He expressed that this was a 1-time offer a few times, trying to get my credit card number. I told him of my reluctance to ever give me card number over the phone, especially to a company I knew nothing about, and he politel understood this and wanted to direct me to the Port of Palm Beach web page. While I was looking at the web the entire time, though instructed him that I had no web page available such that there was no way I could provide a credit card number. It was after closing on the phone call that I found this web page, which gave me more insight into this scam. I was never planning on doing this, since nothing comes for FREE, but I was interested enough to try to catch on where the scam was (thinking that this was a time share scam where they held you captive on a ship .. Thanks again all!
Thanks for sharing your story with us Randy. Glad to hear you were wise enough about it
Does anyone happen to remember the name of the charity that originally called and we did a survey for them by answering 7 questions and then were told we would be given a free cruise for participating?
I really don’t think I did any Jo. They mentioned some company, but I’ve no idea who it was anymore.
Well I got the call today, I had completed some online research. Somebody name Camilla. and she wanted the fee right then and there to hold the spots for 18 months. True it might be a good cruise, but you still have to pay air fair…etc. to West Plam Beach. So I told her I did not have a extra 118 right now, she stated “can’t you get it from some where.” I started to take the matter to a whole new level. Its a scam from Travel Corporate Office. Its a shame, that you have to exactly check out everything and everybody these days. 1-877-404-7231
I also got scammed by this “company”; and I asked all the right questions but, as they say, “IF IT SEEMS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE IT PROBABLY IS” Fortunately, my BFF stopped over, and said This is a scam-so I retrieved myself. How can these people sleep at night?
praise that boyfriend of yours. I don’t know how they sleep at night, but we’ve heard on here a few of the employees, who said that they were just tricked into selling, and then weren’t ever paid for their time. So clearly the employees, who are doing the dirty business, aren’t getting what they had hoped for either.
I received a phone call a few weeks ago about winning a free trip. I have always been skeptical of these calls so I just said “sorry not interested”.
Yesterday, I received a letter with the return address:
Caribbean Cruise Line
Administrative Offices
Port of Palm Beach, 301 Broadway Ste 101B
Riviera Beach, FL 33404
Subject: FREE BAHAMAS CRUISE FOR TWO ENCLOSED…..no strings attached!
Inside was a coupon described in detail by everyone above. It also had the phone number 1-800-301-8076.
Thank you for these posts. I will be recycling this document in its entirety.
It came in the mail and guess what it smelled like a scam it looked like a scam and guess what it is a scam. I phoned the number and asked them if they had a bussiness license for my area and guess what they didnt. Dont buy anything especialy if its free. Duh lmao yet another scam brought to my doorstep. I am interested in buying a time share though. lol
actually you know the commerical for the caribbean cruise line if says go on this website to win a free cruise
well i did it and won
i had to pay 118 for just two people
and i had a year and a half to go on my cruise
is this a scam??
if you’ve read any of the posts in here, lots of people went through it this way. They do put on a cruise, but it’s not the experience they say it should be, I’ve heard many complaints about it. Love it if you let us know how it worked for you.
Recieved a call yesterday from this company saying that I made a $400 deposit on a trip in April 2006 (which I dont remember) and they were giving me a courtesy call before they deactivate my trip. I could however have it reinstated for $697 more (A $4000 package they say). When I said I would have to speak to my husband about it, the lady got very snippy and said this was my last chance and it would not be possible to discuss it and call back. We ended up getting diconnected and she called back and left a very hateful message. I called to complain and when a supervisor called me back he said that the woman was not rude. They were just trying to salvage my deposit (from 5 years ago), and I was the one who was rude because when we were disconnected I didn’t call back. He said all their calls are recorded and he had listened to it. Said that they make more money when people don’t go on their trips. So, your complaining about getting $400 from me (free, apparently) and me not wanting to take your discounted vacation! You just said either way you make money, more if I don’t travel!!! I also told him that she had told me that I had 1.5 years to use the trip and I wasn’t sure if that would work for us. He said I must’ve misunderstood her, because once I purchase the trip I can take it at any time. I said he should review the call then and double check because she had not told me that. He then got snippy and said, “Do you vacation?” I told him yes, my husband and I vacation annually, we just wouldn’t be vacationing with them. I told him they had very bad customer service and that he and the woman were both rude. Pretty sure this was a scam! Why else is it a one time deal! Or in my case a 5 year deal that I am not aware of until it is on the verge of expiration!!!
wow, thats the first time I’ve heard that on this blog. Thanks for sharing, I’m curious if you’ve found out if you did pay that deposit 5 years ago?
The Ship “Bahamas Celebration” exists, and it does sail to the Bahamas. The way that these cruises are sold are extremely BAD. (1) There is nothing “Free” about this cruise. You will pay for everything and then some. (2) Nothing that is described to you on the phone (or even on the web site) is true. You will arrive in Ft. Lauderdale, and go pick up your boarding pass, and here all problem will begin. “Sorry, you are staying in a different hotel.” “Sorry, the ship goes to Freeport, not Nassau”, “Sorry, meals are not included”, … “Sorry, buy my computer says ….”. The free meals, as they call it, consist of of a $5 voucher for buffet breakfast in a specific restaurant (far from your hotel, of course), between the hours of 7-8:30 am. Then, there is an unmentioned Time Share presentation. You will not get your boarding pass until you pass the presentation. The presentation lasts 3 hours, but unless you have your own car you will be stuck somewhere west of Ft. Lauderdale for 7 hours. Most presentations, at least at the hours that I’ve been there, result in a scandal. Participants begin to steam, and it is not ending very well.
After all the “oopses”, and the frustrantion, and the overpayments, and an infuriating day lost in a time-share pitch, you will eventually make it to the ship.
The ship is very descent, even good. Food is great, and so is entertainment. Crew and personnel are very nice. Boarding/unboarding is very well organized. So is everything else on the ship. No lines, no waiting. A pleasure.
The Lucaya Resort on Grand Bahama I was staying in was even better. Clean, sunny and uncrowded. Prestine ocean and beaches. Tennis and golf (for extra $$).
If it were not for the way that this whole thing is run/organized, it would have been a descent vacation get-away. But for the same money, I’d recommend you book yourself some other, “proper” cruise, and avoid all the aggravation associated with the Caribbean Cruise Lines.
Nick, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. That was my main frustration and what lead me to write this post, was that they claim it as a free cruise, then utilize horrible sales tactics and pressure you into starting to pay for it. Soon, the free cruise turned into the same price as a cruise that is reputable, professional, and courteous. No sketchy situations involved.
I know for myself that one day lost would not be worth it one bit for me, but I will let the readers decide that for themselves..
Thanks all for the heads-up, I googled it while she was talking and told her that on-line, it says you are a hoax, she said there are inaccurate reports online, yada, yada, I hung up on her. THANKS ALL.
good call samdamico glad to hear this all helped
I completed the survey on the phone about a month ago. I was told to go to a certain website to check out what my ‘free’ cruise was all about. I tried and couldn’t get there so I thought well it’s probably a scam. Then started the phone calls, from Steve and Jeremy and Jaimie and…..All messages on the answering machine. Then the final ‘last time we will offer this to you’ call. Yay. That was about a week ago. I was actually home this morning when Jessica called and started her spiel. I told her we don’t use credit cards. She checked and because I am in Saskatchewan, Canada the debit system is different so I couldn’t use it. (yes we talked about the 5 C weather here and the 80 F weather there) What about a prepaid credit card? Well, I live out of the city and couldn’t go in until tomorrow and I could get one then and put the $118.00 on it and I would call her back on Friday. I was going to discuss it with my husband this evening (he is working away from home this week) and get the card tomorrow. I decided to check it out online and came across this site. I think I’ll just talk to him about the weather tonite. Thanks for saving me some money.
Hahahaha. I wonder how the weather is where you are! Thanks Gloria
I’m sure we don’t need more comments about the same thing but I’ll share my story anyway. I spoke with Kevin Ellis and though I was excited about my free cruise, when he asked for my credit card number I felt weird about it so I lied and told him I didn’t have it on me and asked for a number I could call back when I got my card. He said it was a one time offer and if they gave out a number then people would just be calling all the time. So I asked if we could schedule a time for someone from the company to call me back later tonight. I knew I needed some time to look into this and when he offered to send me an informational e-mail I gladly gave him my e-mail address so I could google the info he sent. And here I am.
Thank you all for sharing your stories, and thank you to the original poster for doing what you can to help all these people steer clear of this company!
Thank ALL OF YOU FOR the information that I was looking for. All of the info that was written in the previous comments raised RED FLAGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I normally research the companies before giving personal information (bank accounts). I had asked the rep so many questions that they were not able to give a straight answer. I knew this was a SCAM after they upgraded the cabin. Thanks to everyone for the VALUABLE INFO THAT WAS SHARED.
Just got a letter in the mail today….it was erie reading your posts here, same exact offer, even me telling them that I could call back and talk to a manager. Well, I will definitely NOT be calling back. I was a telemarketer for 10 years, I should have known better.
haha, everybody, as human trait, is intrigued by the to good to be true story…
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I was on the phone with them while searching the ship name on the internet and say your blog. When he was done with his pitch, I told him I wanted something sent to me in writing stating exactly what I was entitled to. He hung up on me. So thanks again!
Ashley said”This is sad, but true. I worked for this awful company. And guess what? They didn’t even pay me! If you can imagine. I spent 8 hours a day working for them and after 2 weeks I couldn’t take it anymore and the terrible lies they fed people… for crying out loud their business cards are printed from one of those free business card websites- that should have been my first notice to stay away from these people. Not only do they steal people’s money, but they left me without a paycheck to take care of my family. They are liars and thieves and I feel sorry for anyone who would buy into such a scam. May they rot in HELL.”
Prove to me that you worked there. Anyone can “say” they worked for a place. The person running this article beleives all the negative people!!! He does not ask for proof from them, but when people say they liked it, or approve of it. He demands proof that they are telling the truth!! I run many sites, and know that with enough time the operator could produce the same results shown here (fake messages for example). So please prove to the readers that you are a real person, and not the operator.
at it again eh john? I posted my proof in this initial email. We have people on here explaining how their cruise went, including you, and it sounds like tricks, scams, and lies. If that’s how you like to do business, or risk your vacation on it, then continue to use them John. If the over 350 comments on this post, almost all of them complaints and thank you’s since they received the exact same scam approach and horrible sales tactics, doesn’t turn you off the company, then may your journey be filled with free booze and topless dancers, maybe if you’re lucky the marvelous crew will also be able to supply you with a unicorn to ride around on?
“at it again eh john? I posted my proof in this initial email”
My reply was to the person that claimed to work for the company. You beleive these people without proof. But yet you disbeleive the people that had fun on the cruise!! You are not getting a ton of positive posts because of how you treat these people when they do post, and the people that had fun do not search for sites like this one.
I went in this cruise last December
I enjoyed it, it wasn’t everything I expected but we had a really nice time also it was my1st cruise so my expectations were really high.
I will say I didn’t have the same scammy issues you all seemed to have they always made me aware of the costs involved…
So I guess sorry to those with bad experiences and congrats to those whose where great
Thanks Jacqueline for your opinion. December is a nice time to take a cruise into the bahamas
Man am i glad i stumbled upon this article…
The minute he started asking for the $59, I started to get suspicious and googled them while they were on the line..I stalled them long enough to read your article….Right after i finished the article, i turned to the phone and gave them a piece of my mind..
Thanks a lot..you saved me some cash.
Just finished talking to a lady that said I won a 2 day 2 night cruise to the Bahamas. I told her I wasn’t comfortable giving my credit card over the phone. It was exciting at first just to hear somebody say I won something. Decided to do my research … thank God I found this website! A lot of the stories here are exactly what I went through today!
Hi everyone,
So, like an idiot, I just took advantage of the scam. They called me at the perfect time because I was really bored at work, so I took the survey, then today, in the midst of having an extremely bad day, they called me back to confirm that I “won a free cruise” blah blah blah…. we ended up being on the phone for over an hour, they emailed me things reassuring me that they weren’t a scam, I even asked the first guy right away flat out “is this a scam” and his response was so good that I just laughed and went on…I didn’t want to take advantage of the extended stay options because I’m a college grad. with student loans and things to pay off and I don’t have that kind of extra money. But alas, after an hour on the phone I guess I felt reassured enough and finally caved. Then of course now, as I get home, I was able to find all this info about the scam. So I called the customer service number back and immediately requested to get my money back. The guy basically told me that there was no way I could because I had already confirmed and allowed them to take my money. I was furious, but the guy was extremely polite and told me of alternate options I had. Eventually he mentioned something about not even needing to take a cruise and just getting a 2 day 2 night hotel stay with all meals included.
I need advice on what to do. He extended my options from 18 months to a full 2 years. So now I have until 2013 to decide what I’d like to do. Either way, they already charged me $118 and I lose out on that…. so should I just go ahead an take advantage of it anyways? I have some family and friends down in Florida and was most likely going to visit at some point within the next 2 years as it is, so does anyone think I should just plan it out for when I’m already going to be down there? He explained that the total extra charges for 2 people on the cruise would be a max of 18$ per person for fuel and then $24 per person for gratuity…. so that’s an extra of $84 while once on the ship not including whatever I plan to buy once I’m there. I have 2 years to come up with this extra money, and the minute they charge me more than what I stupidly confirmed (the $118) then I know that I can form a complaint or something.
I feel like an idiot, and I just need some advice. I don’t have the money to pay for lawyer fees and I don’t even know if I have an argument at this point since I had agreed to it in the midst of their fast talking and friendly nature.
Should I go for it? Or should I just let the $118 leave my account as it already did and pretend like it never happened? HELP
Out of pure annoyance, being in the same boat as you are, I have chosen to not take the cruise, but save as many people as I can from getting scammed by this by making people aware of it. I have more than paid back what I’ve lost to society. There are many people, just like you, who claim to be single parents, fresh graduates, etc. and have read this article before agreeing to this, and have not because of what is on this site. So, I’m happy(er).
I was stupid enough to fall for this over three years ago. Like most, I felt foolish as soon as I hung up the phone. I supposedly declined the hotel stay as I have family in the area that I would stay with. At the 18 month mark we weren’t able to travel so i thought we just let it expire. Wrong – much to my surprise I had a very threatening phone call from one of their reps a few months after the expiry date asking why we hadn’t travelled on the cruise and stayed at the hotel. The guy was awful!! I told him that we were under the impression that the time had expired and under no circumstances had we accepted the hotel portion. I finally had to hang up on the guy. So now, over a year later, Alan Parker (not certain that this is his real name) is phoning and threatening that he will charge my credit card with the amount that we still owe. I was horrified! I told him that I owe nothing and he offered to play the taped verbal contract that he had. He again became threatening indicating that as soon as the phone call ended, he would be putting the charge through on my credit card – he would not tell me how much it would be. I hung up and proceeded to phone my credit card company and put a hold on the account. Now, more than two weeks later, I get approximately 3 phone calls per day. Most calls are dead air but occasionally there is a person – today again Alan Parker. Beware folks, not certain if this is legit but my husband worked for Royal Caribbean Cruise lines for many years..and I worked in the travel industry for years as well…nobody would treat potential clients in this type of threatening and hostile manner!
aye! Janice, when he calls, pick up the phone and tell him to please stop phoning and to kindly take you off any list that merits the absurd amount of phone calls, it worked for me.
Good luck, and it’s really to bad about the horrible sales tactic they use. If it weren’t for that, they might make their customers more happy.
GUESS WHAT………………..
i GOT SCAMMED…………
STUPID ME GOT INTO IT BEFORE I COULD EVEN GO THROUGH THE REVIEWS…
I HATE MYSELF….
Ugh, I should I found this 2 years ago when I received the free vouchers!! I knew free was too good to be true, and when I called in they were upfront about the cost and I was willing to pay the $600.
Today, I spent 2 hours on the phone, these agents kept transferring my call to different people! I spoke with 7 people!! I repeated the same story those 7 times, I tried to cancel this trip like 3 times! Each time I was told that the money is not refundable, I could give the vouchers to someone else! Very annoying. I kept complaining so much that I can’t afford this trip that my extension fee was waived.
Today the agents kept trying to upgrade the package, and I kept saying no. I kept asking questions, and all I received from these people was rude comments and kept transferring my call to other people. I know services like this is not acceptable. But I already paid my money! I just can’t believe it has been two years, and I find all these examples of this scam now. I feel horrible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My trip at this point is about 900 + my flight for both my friend and I, and we have to pay additional taxes + other fees and a deposit on a car rental once I get there. How is this trip free!!!With all this money I could have gone to Europe! Know I’m wondering if I get to Florida, there really is going to be a cruise waiting for us! HORRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not fair, how can people take advantage of others
I agree, but when compared to a regular cruise, it’s about the same. The only problem is they scam you at the start saying its free.
hello! i was looking up some information about this cruise to show a friend of mine and found this website. i have to say, i have been on this cruise several times and i’ve had a blast. my grandmother and i actually spent thanksgiving on the cruise which was rather enjoyable. we are frequent travelers and enjoy ourselves everytime.
as far as a “free cruise” i don’t know anything about that but havent you ever filled out those contest papers at a chinese restaurant at least once that say “free cruise”? i used to fill them out all of the time when i was a kid and “won” every single time! lol. it’s not a scam. every company does it with “buy one/get one” or “save 70% on your first visit” we all know it’s to get you in the door. it’s the oldest sales tactic in the book. the cruise itself may be free, but you do have to pay taxes and port fees., that’s obvious.
i’m a waitress at the hard rock cafe and trust me, people always expect something for nothing. “i want a stronger drink” says the customer. i reply with “there’s going to be a charge for that, just so you know” and the customer gets upset because he/she can’t get something for “free”
look.. all in all, this cruise is just a nice getaway off our big island to a smaller island. i live in ft. lauderdale and love that i can hop on this cruise line and get away for a few days. the service staff is really nice and they recognize you each time. it’s nice to see the same wait staff in the dining room each time you go. it’s like going to your favorite restaurant and getting your favorite server. as a waitress, i’m very critical of who takes care of me when i dine or go on vacations. their staff definitely does just that.
the cruise is cheap, even if it isn’t free, the drinks are super cheap, there’s always something to do, the beach is gorgeous and so is the resort pool. the food is pretty good and the entertainment is cheesy yet fantastic.
it is what it is, just a cheap, relaxing, good time.
sorry you guys think it’s a scam, but maybe you should just try it out. my grandma has gone on this cruise so many times, they give her credits and upgrades. it’s really cool actually.
good luck with your website. sorry you guys are having such a rough time, but i have a blast each time.
Vanessa,
Thank you for sharing this with us. The part that got me frustrated and motivated me to write this was that they said it was free, said I could book my cruise on the dates I wanted to go, then when they had my credit card, it suddenly wasn’t cheap, and was about a $700 cruise or more, package pending.
We have had reports back here on this page that say that the cruise itself was nice, the resort at the end was nice and the cruise itself is, as you say: “it is what it is, just a cheap, relaxing, good time.”
I can see how living in Ft. Lauderdale would provide an ideal situation for you to just hop on it. It is a very fortunate thing to do.
May your next journey be splendid
king kabuz.
OMG I am so very glad I found this article, just today I received a voucher in the mail for this “free” cruise. My husband and I didn’t get too excited, we know nothing is ever free. But we were interested, my husband is battling cancer right now and it would be great if we could have a nice getaway; we can’t afford anything like a cruise so I was hoping it was legitimate. After reading your article, I am so very glad I did not call that number. I had noticed the $59.00 fee, but I had not finished reading it when I decided to google it. When I typed in Caribbean Cruise, the line Caribbean Cruise line scam came up in the little drop downs, that is what I clicked on as my gut told me this was a scam, and it led me to your article. So thank you for saving my husband and I heartache as well as money.
Angie
Angie, it is really to bad. I hate to feel I live with a glass half empty, but to good to be true is hard to play with.
On a different note, I send my vibes to you and your husband for strength and endurance in your battle against cancer.
king kabuz
Thanks for posting this blog. I went on the cruise and felt like they should have gave me a T-shirt towards the end that read “I survived Carribbean Cruise Lines”.
Also, I plan on supporting whoever is thinking about sueing this company. I thought it was terrible how they scam people out of their hard earned money.
I ordered the extended stay package. I saw the reviews only after I had purchased the cruise. I called customer service and they assured me I would be fine and If I wasnt they would do their best to help me. NOT TRUE!
The Lucaya Resort was GORGEOUS. We had a wonderful time on the island. THe cruise ship looked decent enough but the food wasn’t spectacular or anything. The sea was choppy the first night on the boat which made alot of people sea sick (including myself). People were literally swaying back and forth on the boat. Of course, you wouldnt feel something like that on a nice big boat like Royal Carribean Cruiseline. My biggest complaint with the package was the hotels in Fort Lauderdale/Orlando. We found roaches in the hotel in Fort Lauderdale. When we got back from the island, I didnt feel comfortably with the hotel they booked for us. People on our trip told us it was in the middle of the ghetto. I didnt want to take any chances so I tried to complain to the customer service reps. The rep said SHE COULD DO NOTHING after the person on the phone said they would do their best to help me. While I was complaining to the reps, my girlfriend was calling customer service for the cruise lines. The people said we had to fax in complaints to the cruise line. We couldnt just tell somebody. I ended up booking a room at a nice hotel on my own. I remember just feeling so bad about taking my girlfriend through this vacation. She deserves so much better than this.
Thank you for sharing with us your experience James. It’s nice to hear that there was a beautiful part of the cruise in Lucaya Resort.
It is to bad the sea was choppy, that’s never fun. You’re right, you feel it less on a bigger boat.
That is pretty disgusting about your hotel in Ft Lauderdale.
I am soooo glad I found this website. My husband had won a “free” cruise for taking a survey. It was going to cost us $59 each and $99 for the kids. They offered to let us stay at a resort in the Bahamas for 3 days and 2 night for $518. While they were nice enough to offer 2 car rentals while in Ft. Lauderdale and 2 hotel rooms, 2 ocean room cabins while on the boat and 2 ocean front rooms while at the Bahamas. Plus $100 gambling money on the ship. All of this for $666.00. My daddy always told me if something is too good to be true, it usually isn’t.
They do say that the cruise you can actually go on, and it does get you out of the house. Although, it is not free by any stretch of the imagination. That is my gripe. Look into other cruiselines that don’t pressure sell, and have legitimate reputations, that might be a more amicable situation.
This is a response from whomever above . I was reading ayour post im still tryna find the part where they scammed you .you claim that caribbean cruiseline is a scam but you don’t have actual facts to back up your statement! The reason for you not being able to book your dates is because you probally did not give them a 60 day notice so as an end result you had to upgrade your cabin.the part not being able to get your money back , if you read your statutory period you would of known after 3way biz dayz the package is non refundable however transferrable .and if they were a scam im pretty sure they would take more than $118 bucks from you! They would max out your bank account and you wouldnt be able to contact them either. So ya, I think you should look up the definition of a “scam “
Dear Ladylove,
You said “So ya, I think you should look up the definition of a “scam “”
I agree with you 100%!!! I took this cruise TWICE, and had a blast…
99% of the people posting state they refused the cruise, but yet condemn something they never experienced. If you look there are employees of the company stating this is not a scam, but yet the moderator dismisses them, and people like me. He wants photo proof we were on the cruise, but yet when I ask to show them standing on the dock without a ship….he does not.
He automatically accepts any negative comment as fact, and positive comment is not believed. He even stated this was HIS site and that it is for the negative comments about the company.
I would like to see him actually take a cruise, and then make comments about it. Getting a letter, and opting not to take the offer does not make this a scam. Everything is FULLY disclosed (at least for me) when you call them, and again in the letter confirming your agreement. Yes they tried to upsell. Look at it … what sales company doesn’t try, like McDonalds for example: “Would you like to super-size your order?”. All you have to say is “no thanks”.
John,
I agree with you about the company being smart to try and upsell, that’s just the nature of the beast.
As I have stated already in the above posts, I have taken a cruise before. I thought I had reviewed it on these pages, but I cannot find the post to link you at the moment.
The reason why I automatically accept the negative comments (note that I leave up all comments that are respectful, good and bad, contrary to what you have said) is because I had the EXACT same experience.
The goal I had in writing this was to inform people of what happened to me, and it has turned out that it isn’t just me that has had this experience, in fact, almost 400 posts have been made on this site now about this, and I think that should show you that something fishy is going on.
I realize that I questioned a few people at the start of this blog, which was because I was interested in evidence so that I could show people that my experience was just with the sales team, and not with the actual cruise itself. Also, I am interested to see how it compares to the other cruises I’ve been on.
Thank you for taking the time to point fingers once again John,
TIll next time.
Dear Ladylove,
In my initial post, I posted the screenshot of what I had won. I realize now I should have posted a screencap of my bank statement with the money charged to it, to accommodate you.
As for the 60 day notice, I believe I also addressed that in my initial post.. But, I initially got the call, triple asked them if I had enough time before my trip, even got them to check to make sure the trip wasn’t sold out, told them exactly when I was going, was told there was no black out period during that time, and they said yes of course, all is good. I then went through with it, paying them their money for the FREE cruise, still with about 3 or 4 months before my trip. After waiting a few weeks, I eventually phoned them up, for I did never get the package in the mail, and got a code from them to continue with the booking, which is when the troubles started.
For the record, google defines scam:
scam
noun /skam/
scams, plural
A dishonest scheme; a fraud
– an insurance scam
victimize: deprive of by deceit; “He swindled me out of my inheritance”; “She defrauded the customers who trusted her”; “the cashier gypped me when he gave me too little change”
a fraudulent business scheme
My grandmother was “scammed’ into this cruise about three years ago. She received the free cruise after purchasing something online. I had just lost my boyfriend in a plane crash and she wanted to cheer me up so she thought this was a great idea. She received her paperwork and decided to pass the information to me so I could book our trip. I called several times and asked many of the same questions that previous posters asked. Eventually, I booked a trip for two for March 2010. My credit card was charged the $118. I was told I would receive my confirmation in the mail. I never received this information (still haven’t). I called to ask when I was going to receive this information and was told that my trip was not booked and they were at capacity for when I wanted to travel. I told them that I did book and they saw on my file where I called and booked but someone didn’t actually book us on the boat. I explained that was not my fault and they needed to find us a room. They tried to get me to cruise at a different time. I could not because of my job and I had already taken the vacation time, etc… I eventually had to get a lawyer involved and send a letter on their letterhead and miraculously, the cruise line found a room for us! Dealing with the customer service people is hazardous to your health! Beware of this!
We did have to attend a time share presentation. They fed us lunch and we toured the grounds. They tried hard to sell, of course. Our hotels were not wonderful but our meals were included. Overall, the travel experience was not bad. It wasn’t wonderful either.
HOWEVER, we DID go on the cruise. The ship was small and they did push excursions, but we declined and decided to just go to the market. We did pay the $15 to be bussed to the market. We could have gotten a $5 taxi, but we didn’t know. We did have to pay $100 per person to get on the boat for drinks, pictures, etc. If we had not spent that money, it would have been refunded (or so we were told). We decided to spend it so I don’t know what kind of hassle that would have been. We were only actually in the Bahamas for about 4 hours. We opted out of the extended stay package. We never did see the “beach” because you could only access it from the Our Lucaya resort and that was an extra cost.
While on the cruise, the staff was fabulous. The food and nightly entertainment were great. There wasn’t much to do on the boat during the day besides sit by the small pool or sunbathe. There was a dance club after the nightly entertainment and a karaoke contest. There is a kids playroom with kid friendly games. Overall, the cruise was nice. It was my first cruise and after reading all the negative reviews online, I didn’t have high expectations. I was pleasantly surprised. Of course, it’s not as nice as a larger boat with many activities, but for a short trip to the Bahamas, it was fine. I wouldn’t mind going on another cruise on this ship IF I didn’t have to deal with the customer service to book the trip.
I probably won’t cruise on this ship again because of the horrible customer service prior to taking the cruise.
As for people trying to decide whether to take the cruise or not after paying the $118, there IS an actual cruise. You DON’T have to upgrade to the extended stay. You do have to pay $100 for “extras” before you board (I was told it was refundable if you didn’t spend it). We did have to pay the fuel surcharge of $9 per person per day ($18 per person for trip). You have to pay for soda and alcohol (coffee and tea are included). There are plenty of things that they try to sell you. You don’t have to purchase it.
Good luck and safe travels!
Tiffani, thanks for your review on the cruise. Either my attitude has changed, or people are misinterpreting my initial post. It was about the fact that the cruise was supposed to be free, and it ended up being about a $600 cruise or so.
I have been on other cruises before, and what you experienced with the taxi/bus ordeal, onboard ‘activities’ etc. sounds very similar to other experiences I’ve had. They aren’t taking you on the cruise, sticking you on a ship, and then not trying to make as much money from you… I think any company is going to try and wriggle every last coin from your pocket!
Thanks again for sharing, and giving your advice.
I was very pleased to be able to confirm by checking this web site that my gut feeling was correct and that my free cruise was going to be anything but free. Sales caller was very pleasant specifically Tim Gallagher ref KB 3726 but so long winded and yes stopped to make notes and sounded a busy office. Happily I did not pay anything and I don’t think I disclosed any info about myself except that I am over 18 and single.
yeh, I could swear the two or three people they gave me to when I had called them sounded the same. I thought they were the same people personally….
i just finished making an order by phone when all of a sudden i was told that i won a 2 days 2 nights free trip to the Bajamas that Caribbean Cruise was sponsoring.. word per word they told me exactly what they told the first person on this page. i told them that i do not make any decisions without consulting my husband.. when i asked for their phone number and exactly the web site to research this to make sure this was not a scam they gave me the runarounds.. they told me that if i hang up that i would loose this great free offer to the Bajamas.. I told them that best they give this offer to someone else for I did not feel comfortable giving away my credit card number with doing my own personal research.. they tried hard to convince me to not let go of this great advantage but I was just as hard in insisting that I will not give away my card number because for all I know they might be scam artists just like many out there. reading the experience above I realized I was not wrong.. I thank God I followed my gut feeling as we all should. When something does not sound right do not give in and hang up. Too many scam artists out there – we must protect our pockets from them all. Good Luck!!
Thank you sooo much for having posted your story. I just got a mail with this offer and everything was really too good to be true.
Thanks, thanks again!
go.steal.money.from.hell!
Dawn, I did not go on the cruise, I tried everything to get my money back. Like I said in my post, I couldn’t get any of the times except a small window they would allow me, and even then, I wouldn’t be able to get the cabin’s that I had paid for, I had to upgrade my package. I never did get a package in the mail they said should be there within a week.
Your article saved me too! I got the similar $59 per person ‘deal’, while on the phone I googled and found your article, and hung up THANK YOU!
My be the letter is not theirs. Who know?
i got this exact scam this morning. they said i entered a contest at a rib festival (which I did but for it to win a car…not this! rmb DON’T fall for it)
I actually was tricked into giving out $665 us for the cruise. I found this website and I am glad i did. I immediately called back and they said they will do the refund in 3-5days. I will definitely update you all on what happens from this on….
I also called my credit card company to stop the visa card and to send a new one.
Damn! I am curious how it all pans out for you, although smart that you cancelled your credit card.
Wow, I got scammed too! I should have known something was fishy. I had just attended a presentation and received a free cruise on a Thursday, but on Saturday, I received the cruise thing in the mail and thought how quick they were to send the voucher! Then I looked at the date, it was from July 13, 2010 meaning that this was an entirely different free cruise. So I called them back and they gave me the run around plus the fact that they told me that I could get a refund and then changed their minds. Thank God I did not give them more than the $118 because they were trying to get me to pay more for a trip to Mexico! I told them no and they had an attitude. In fact, the guy that I was talking to was thoroughly upset that I would not upgrade to something more expensive and he gave the phone back to one of his co-workers to finish the conversation. I wish that there was something that I could do. This was a real rip off. I was so mad, that I had hung up on the lady that was telling me that I could transfer my prize to someone else!
I just got contacted via a phone offer to this scam. A woman with a nasal voice talked to me, and she kept wanting to get my credit card and mailing address. The new website is
http://www.2011getaway.com. she talked to me like i didnt know how to use a computer because thats the usual kind of people who go through with this and fall for this i think. i am a software engineer and i did this for laughs with my buddies. and she asked me if i thought the girl was pretty in the video. what the hell is this? why are scams like these continue to exist?
I just got this in the mail today June 13, 2011, with all these things, I check first and NEVER give anyone my credit card number. But here is my question, How to get
at these people for the scam they are doing to unsuspecting people? Is there something other than BBB, (which it sounds like they are useless in cases like this) that can be done to stop them? Keep spreading the word.
Some people think this is a scam….but it is not. I have taken two of thesecruises,and had a blast. You have a choice to take it or not to take it. Notice that the moderator of this site does not seem to like people posting positive remarks here. He said that it is only for the complainers. Just rememberthere are always two sides toany story, and his is the negative one. He wants me,and others toprove we went on the cruise. Well I am awaitinghim toprove that he tried the cruise and was left without anything. He has yet to do that.
John, once again. Thank you for taking the time to diligently support Caribbean Cruise Line once again. I’m sure they would be very much indebted to you if they cared for customers like you say they do.
Once again, I shall illuminate that the reason for my intitial post was to make people aware that the FREE CRUISE they are offering is NOT FREE at all, that you end up paying money just like you would any cheap knock off cruise line would charge you. The only thing that is enticing people to this cruise is that they say “LOOK AT ME, WE”RE FREE” and then insert the hidden fees as a trick.
Best of luck on your next cruise.
Dear John, thanks for giving us your words of warning, and sharing with us your experience. There has been one person post on here who said they were going to start a lawsuit, and to email them. I emailed but didn’t receive a reply, I think the only thing we can do is to make other people aware of it, I know personally that this post gets about 100-300 people viewing it a day, which has been happening for…. about a year a 6 months now. Doing the math, this works out (assuming each person (200 a day) gets suckered at 150$ a pop) works out to be $16.2million dollars I have managed to steer away from the company and keeping it in we, the peoples, pockets. Which is definitely hurting the company in their scam big time, so that’s what I’m doing for my part. I think that posting on this to further validate my, and other peoples findings also helps.
first thing i want to say is that there are employees commenting like john B. but dont worry this happens to every post of this company being a scam. secondly i got the same letter and i called. at first the person said its 129$ for port taxes but then the price some how raised to 800$ because the check only covers 1 third or something. when the person told me it was a one time call i realized that it was a total scam. i told the person i would think about it and he said that it is one call. so i told him no and hanged up. thank god i didnt put my credit card number
Dear Bob…I am not an employee of the company in question.. Just a happy customer. I do not comment on places I work for, since my opinion may be considered biased.
Just happened to me. Got the voucher for the “free cruise” in the mail. Wasted 30 minutes of my time. Guy hung up when I told him I was in law school. (Btw, I think John B is a CCL troll).
Glad to hear that you didn’t get scammed. Seems mentioning anything about law school immediately prompts them to act much better. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks John, Keep up the good work.
Dear Bob,
Same deal, different person. Thanks for helping us share the news that this is a scam, and that it is indeed NOT A FREE CRUISE.
Dear Bob,
I am not a troll, I am as human as the next guy. Everyone has an opinion, and mine happens to be I had a good time with this cruiseline. FYI the free cruise is NOT offered by the actual cruiseline. It is offered by an authorized agent. So this should be refring to that company, not the cruiseline.
So Bob have you read all the post I have made? If not then you should before you make comments you can not prove.
Maybe the cruiseline should not authorize them to sell this scam? Just a thought.
I am soooooooooooooooooooooooo sick i did not research this first I am stuck with a $665 credit card charge nasty customer service reps that keep passing me around and around. I am so stressed I booked my airline nonrefundable flights for dates that they said was confirmed and then told me that they could not accomodate me during those dates and all they could do was give me a free meal and extend it for 12 months. He was kind enough to extend his id employer number I am so sick of this scam. Please people dont be fooled.
Sorry this happen to you but I use to work there until they fired me 6 days ago because I wasn’t closing any sells, but I just didn’t feel right sucking so much money out of a person so they could sit threw a time share presentation.
Crazy, it’s a hard life trying to get sales for a scam, I hope more people quit there to un-validate the people responsible for this. I still get over a hundred views of this post a day. Clearly they’re going strong.
Sorry to hear that Ally, I hope you will come back if you get any further with this, with any new information.
Found this website while on the phone with this company. Thank you so much!
Glad to know I (we) helped Jay. May your day continue happily.
same exact experience , to a T!!! thank you for saving me!!
THEY ARE AT IT AGAIN! we just got something in the mail that is this exact scam! thanks for info everyone! it looked to good to be ture for me but my boyfriend was sold! lol
They’ve never stopped Cyndi! ahhhh! Glad to hear one of you has some wit about you
I just fell for the scam. I was called about the survey for a free cruise. I purchased the $118 port tax, then found this site. I immediately called my credit card provider and disputed the purchase. The credit card representative called the scamming company, while I was on the phone, and the scamming company promptly removed the charges. I explained that there was an overwhelming amount of evidence suggesting that I would not get the offer that was described, but they still insisted otherwise. I can’t say for sure that it was a huge scam, because I didn’t go through with the purchase, but it was all so sketchy. I’m glad I canceled.
My father in law got a call from Carribean Cruise Lines informing him of winning a cruise, and same thing they wanted $59 per person for port fees. I whipped up my laptop knowing right away it was a scam but I wanted to show him. The woman on the phone also gave him this website to check out their company on
http://www.2011getaway.com/
He quickly said not interested and hung up. If you win something it should be free and that is it. NEVER give your credit card info out to someone who calls the house. My dad told me that MANY many moons ago. I worked in a for a couple years and saw many people who would fall for these “deals”. Sad that it is done.
I read your post, and skimmed through the comments. I had a call and answered some questions for a “free cruise”. I was told I would have to pay the 59 dollars for taxes. Like one of your comments, I was told it had to be a minimum of two, maximum of four passengers. What is the latest? Is this a scam?
I would say, considering theres 40+ people who have been contacted the same way, and many of them scammed in the same way, that yes, indeed it is a scam. Did you sign up?
Well I have to say I guess I fell for the scam, I ordered something from TV .Then they said to hold on and that I had been selected for a Bahama Cruise. I fell hook line and sinker. This was in Oct. of 2010.Today I have been trying to get ahold of them to book our departure time. It seems that the lines are busy, for 2 hrs. I decided to get online and see what I could find out. I happen to see your blog. Now I have to agree with my husband, He said it was a scam the whole time. I’m in to them for $697. I really feel dumb
Don’t give up Pat, apparently they do have a cruise, but just that its bottom rate, and cheap. I have been able to get a hold of them before, try some of the other numbers suggested by this blog, Hopefully your available times of departure are flexible.
Good luck!
I just had the same thing happen to me, but I didn’t give them my credit card number because of this thread. It was $59 X 2 and they wanted there money today and I could not get a call back. this sounded like a scam, who gets a free cruise for a quick phone survey? I googled the SS celebration and found out this was a scam because of this thread and politely stated I was not interested. Wow, the sales lady was very friendly but pushy and finally agreed to hang up.
Glad to hear I helped you.
Thank you for posting this! I completed the same survey and then received a message on my cell phone from a representative. I called back to find out more details when I got the same line about having to decide right now and putting down the port charges. I didn’t trust it but I thought I’d let the guy explain more while I googled Caribbean Cruise Lines. Thankfully, I found this site and new my hunch was correct and told the guy no.
