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Elf70
09-13-2019, 12:27 AM
We’re packed and ready to go! Tomorrow morning we head to Miami for an overnight and then Saturday we board the MSC Seaside for 7 days. We’ll start with almost 2 full days at sea. Then our ports are San Juan, St Maarten, St Thomas, and Nassau.

I’ve researched, lurked Cruise Critics, watched YouTube videos, and basically spent hours reading about cruising. My last cruise was almost 20 years ago. The one thing I remember was it was quite expensive. I expect I’ll find the same this trip.

I had no idea what to pack so I just decided to pack everything. Lol.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190913/7443329cfbe36af6dca240d899632df9.jpg

Since I’ve spent the last 6 months frequenting the dermatologist and getting sun damage burned off my face I’m going to try hard to avoid too much sun. Here’s my cruise look. Feel free to lol.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190913/75fec41c4785e6c36960c0536936815f.jpg

S and I are extremely excited about the trip. It feels good to be going somewhere besides Vegas and Chicago.

I’ve read the WiFi on the ship is spotty so I’ll update when possible or recap when we’re back. (Can I handle not checking the forum several times a day??)

Everyone have a great week.

michelelovesvegas
09-13-2019, 12:29 AM
You look great and ready for an adventure! Hope the weather is good for sailing and you enjoy the time with your travel buddy!

CPT
09-13-2019, 12:36 AM
https://i.imgflip.com/2foae3.jpg

Have fun Elf, enjoy your getaway!

dvandentop
09-13-2019, 12:44 AM
Cant wait to hear thoughts!! Gonna. Be a grear time for sure

charlie50
09-13-2019, 12:47 AM
Have fun Elf...looking forward to this report .

zeus
09-13-2019, 01:04 AM
Have a fabulous time! I know you will though. Everything I have seen about the ship looks wonderful. And at least you will have a balcony to sit on to drink your Diet Pepsi just like you are at the Cosmo. I guess they carry Pepsi products? [emoji50] If not, you better be buying you a 12 pack to take. Looking forward to pics, updates, food porn, and slot wins!

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MNvegasgal
09-13-2019, 01:06 AM
We’re packed and ready to go! Tomorrow morning we head to Miami for an overnight and then Saturday we board the MSC Seaside for 7 days. We’ll start with almost 2 full days at sea. Then our ports are San Juan, St Maarten, St Thomas, and Nassau.

I’ve researched, lurked Cruise Critics, watched YouTube videos, and basically spent hours reading about cruising. My last cruise was almost 20 years ago. The one thing I remember was it was quite expensive. I expect I’ll find the same this trip.

I had no idea what to pack so I just decided to pack everything. Lol.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190913/7443329cfbe36af6dca240d899632df9.jpg

Since I’ve spent the last 6 months frequenting the dermatologist and getting sun damage burned off my face I’m going to try hard to avoid too much sun. Here’s my cruise look. Feel free to lol.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190913/75fec41c4785e6c36960c0536936815f.jpg

S and I are extremely excited about the trip. It feels good to be going somewhere besides Vegas and Chicago.

I’ve read the WiFi on the ship is spotty so I’ll update when possible or recap when we’re back. (Can I handle not checking the forum several times a day??)

Everyone have a great week.

Smart.. protect that beautiful face.. and you look adorable!


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Cyndyga
09-13-2019, 01:24 AM
Have a great time! Bon Voyage!

tee2green
09-13-2019, 01:31 AM
Am excited for you and S and know you will go with the flow and enjoy yourselves! Check in when you can but we can wait till you return to hear all about it if need be. Good idea protecting from the sun, no lol from me! Bon Voyage[emoji4]

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clemi
09-13-2019, 02:08 AM
Great pic of you Elf! Sending best wishes for a fun cruise, I can’t wait to hear all about it!

LowAndSlow
09-13-2019, 02:14 AM
Have a wonderful time you two!

Laurie
09-13-2019, 02:17 AM
Have a great trip Elf and S! Look forward to your thoughts :)


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chrissyDee
09-13-2019, 02:21 AM
I am so excited for you! I can’t wait to hear your impressions. Your hat is perfect!

BON VOYAGE!!!


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KingJasonSlots
09-13-2019, 04:19 AM
I’m so jealous! I hope you have a spectacular vacation. Maybe you’ll love cruising as much as Christopher and I do!!


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nhmajik
09-13-2019, 10:10 AM
Have a fabulous time...and good for you protecting your beautiful skin!!!

CTslotters
09-13-2019, 11:31 AM
Bon Voyage Elf and S!
Have a great trip and you look great!
Can’t wait to hear all about it! I also stalk cruise critic when we book a cruise if it’s a ship we’ve never been on and inevitably fall into the research vortex where I just keep clicking further into the site and lose track of all time reading everything! Lol


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Mary9915
09-13-2019, 12:29 PM
Bon Voyage Elf! You guys are going to have so much fun!

DK528
09-13-2019, 12:48 PM
Have a wonderful trip elf and S! Also your skin looks amazing!


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Elf70
09-13-2019, 04:58 PM
We made it to Miami. Nice hotel. I have a wraparound balcony. lol.

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When we checked in we got wristbands that get us free drinks from 5 until 7. So I guess the party starts tonight. We’re heading out to find some lunch. [emoji3][emoji3]

clemi
09-13-2019, 05:14 PM
Nice room and wristband score!

Elf70
09-13-2019, 07:28 PM
Lunch at an Italian restaurant we stumbled across. Very good.

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serenasea
09-13-2019, 09:50 PM
Have fun, Elf -- yes, protect that glowing skin, and enjoy the cruise. That first lunch looks really yummy.

Georgiagambler
09-13-2019, 11:01 PM
Have a great trip! Can’t wait to hear about it when you get back.


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Borgatadd
09-14-2019, 04:59 AM
Have a wonderful trip!

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Elf70
09-14-2019, 11:51 AM
We had so much fun last night! We all met for drinks and appetizers from 5 until 7. I doubled my normal alcohol intake and had 4 beers! I was feeling quite good! (I’m such a lightweight drinker). We met most of the people in our group. Everyone is so nice! This is going to be an epic cruise.

After the meet and greet a group of us went to dinner. We ended up at the same restaurant S and I ate lunch at. I had pesto with chicken and it was good.

This morning S is Ubering to Target to pick up some things he forgot to pack. The cruise line is sending a shuttle to our hotel to pick up our group around noon. S and I may head over to the ship earlier than that. We’ll see.

This may be my last post for awhile depending on the WiFi situation. Bin Voyage.

sondor
09-14-2019, 11:52 AM
Have a great trip...

zeus
09-14-2019, 11:58 AM
My advice for St.Thomas..... jewelry shopping (I wear a 12 in a ring [emoji14]), or if jewelry is not your thing, take an excursion to St. John and go to Trunk Bay. It is my favorite place on this earth outside of Vegas.

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bluesfan
09-14-2019, 01:11 PM
Elf, I hope you have a great time!!! Cruising is so much fun!!! And remember your sunblock to protect you!!! I love the big hat, right up my alley!!!!

Penguin
09-14-2019, 01:46 PM
Have a ball!!

dvandentop
09-14-2019, 01:53 PM
My advice for St.Thomas..... jewelry shopping (I wear a 12 in a ring [emoji14]), or if jewelry is not your thing, take an excursion to St. John and go to Trunk Bay. It is my favorite place on this earth outside of Vegas.

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkHow did get over to Trunk Bay was it one of the excursions from st. Thomas?

Looks amazing

dvandentop
09-14-2019, 01:53 PM
Damn I can tell you're already having a great time hope the check-in is amazing and if you get on the ship early you can start having some drinks and lunch as soon as ya board before the masses come

Borgatadd
09-14-2019, 02:23 PM
My advice for St.Thomas..... jewelry shopping (I wear a 12 in a ring [emoji14]), or if jewelry is not your thing, take an excursion to St. John and go to Trunk Bay. It is my favorite place on this earth outside of Vegas.

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkDitto what Zeus said....Trunk Bay is just beautiful and [emoji4] St Thomas definitely has the jewelry stores. Also, booze and perfumes.

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Borgatadd
09-14-2019, 02:25 PM
How did get over to Trunk Bay was it one of the excursions from st. Thomas?

Looks amazingYes, they have short ferry rides over to St. Johns.

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dvandentop
09-14-2019, 02:32 PM
nice been looking at different excurions for st john and st kitts

post your favs

zeus
09-14-2019, 02:36 PM
How did get over to Trunk Bay was it one of the excursions from st. Thomas?

Looks amazingYes, it was.an excursion we did through the cruise line. We were picked up and boated over to the island. I think it was a 30 minute ride. The whole island is beautiful, but Trunk Bay was breathtaking. There was great snorkeling over an incredible reef.

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Nhcris
09-14-2019, 03:23 PM
It is so much fun when you meet people ahead of time for a cruise! What a great way to start. I cannot wait to see and hear more, more more!!!

BON VOYAGE!!

Gypsy
09-14-2019, 04:36 PM
How did get over to Trunk Bay was it one of the excursions from st. Thomas?

Looks amazing

Richard and I just took the Ferry. It was so cheap and then a taxi over to Trunk Bay. We also love Cinnamon Bay which is just a little bit further. It’s not so crowded and just as beautiful!!

Gypsy
09-14-2019, 04:38 PM
Sounds like you are off to a great start Elf, have a fabulous time!!

Suze1000
09-14-2019, 05:45 PM
My advice for St.Thomas..... jewelry shopping (I wear a 12 in a ring [emoji14]), or if jewelry is not your thing, take an excursion to St. John and go to Trunk Bay. It is my favorite place on this earth outside of Vegas.

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St. John is my favorite place on Earth, too. Currently, Francis/Maho Bays are my favorite beaches because of the snorkeling.

Suze1000
09-14-2019, 05:48 PM
K
nice been looking at different excurions for st john and st kitts

post your favs

I have been to St. John at least 18 times. If you need some info, let me know.

Suze1000
09-14-2019, 05:49 PM
nice been looking at different excurions for st john and st kitts

post your favs

My advice is go to St. John on your own and pick a beach that the cruise people are not dropped off at. Too crowded. There are 39 beaches over there.

Elf70
09-16-2019, 06:08 PM
Hi everyone! After 3 days I’ve finally figured out the WiFi. Lol. I’m an idiot. Anyway we’re having a great time. Our first stop tonight is San Juan. I hope you all are well! More later.

dvandentop
09-17-2019, 04:26 AM
Hi everyone! After 3 days I’ve finally figured out the WiFi. Lol. I’m an idiot. Anyway we’re having a great time. Our first stop tonight is San Juan. I hope you all are well! More later.I have read the slots are looser on the first couple night so hopefully you're having good luck sounds like you're having a good time for sure

Jen Jen
09-17-2019, 06:29 AM
Looking forward to more updates! Enjoy your cruise.

Elf70
09-17-2019, 03:38 PM
Last night in San Juan a group of us got off the ship together. We ended up taking a bus tour ($15 each) and seeing some old fort and the government building. At that point we abandoned the bus and walked back towards the ship. Some stayed and ate and drank. We walked around a bit more and came back on board. San Juan is really beautiful. The architecture is amazing. The casino reopened at 2 am. We were asleep. [emoji3]

We woke up in Charlotte Amalie. S and I did some shopping in the souvenir area and then came back on board. This afternoon I’m doing the spa and tonight we’re eating in the main dining room for the first time. I’m very sick of the buffet but have been bad about tracking when the main dining room is open. (Casinos do that to me!) After dinner I’m following S around the casino and betting what he’s betting. He remains several hundred ahead. I need to be more like him!

More later

Nhcris
09-17-2019, 03:55 PM
Stop eating at the damn buffet Woman! We loved the food in the main dining room for dinner. Just check the newspaper thingy in the morning for the hours. You should also be able to find the daily menu, either posted outside the restaurants or possibly in the tv.

Also, there are 2 buffets. Have you checked out both?

Seriously though, cruising is about doing it your way. Just keep having fun!

Curlyd
09-17-2019, 06:48 PM
When Bill and I cruised we left out of San Juan 3 times. We always went 2 days early to walk the streets of Old San Juan. We lived it. Thanks for sharing.

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dvandentop
09-18-2019, 12:47 AM
Did you get a chance to go see the umbrella alley I heard that supposed to be pretty awesome in San Juan

Curlyd
09-18-2019, 04:25 AM
Whoo had to look up Umbrella Alley. That wasn't there the 3 or 4 times we stayed in Old San Juan. Walked the street many times. I bet it's lovely. Also on the weekends the families gather at the large grassy area by the one Fort and fly kites. It's a great thing to see.

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Elf70
09-18-2019, 11:31 AM
Stop eating at the damn buffet Woman! We loved the food in the main dining room for dinner. Just check the newspaper thingy in the morning for the hours. You should also be able to find the daily menu, either posted outside the restaurants or possibly in the tv.

Also, there are 2 buffets. Have you checked out both?

Seriously though, cruising is about doing it your way. Just keep having fun!

Did the main dining room last night. Ordered the “strip steak.” It was inedible. [emoji22] Unfortunately S got sick right after dinner. (He’s better now). I may be stuck with the buffet. Don’t know if he’ll do the dining room again.

Elf70
09-18-2019, 11:39 AM
One of my new friends and I occupied Buffalo last night. 5 straight hours! I started with $500 and ended with $6000!! Multiple handpays. We had so much fun. Especially with the lurkers trying to get on the machines. I donked some back before finally going to bed at 1:30am. It was soooo much fun to finally get some decent play. Today is our beach party. Up at 7am. I am hurting but will push through!

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Handpays automatically download to the Tito but then when you try to cash out a Tito over $1000 it has to be hand paid. Weird.

Everyone have a great day!

zeus
09-18-2019, 11:39 AM
That is sad to hear. (I was talking about the food and illness.)

Yay on the Buffalo!!!

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Borgatadd
09-18-2019, 11:47 AM
Sorry to hear your S got sick but glad he was feeling better. But on a happy note Wow!....those Buffalo were really showing g out for you....congrats. Have fun at the beach today.

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Nhcris
09-18-2019, 12:25 PM
Yikes, so sorry the dining room wasn't good. And especially sorry S got sick. Being sick on a cruise really sucks.

Great job in the casino last night! I will try to rub up on those Buffalos to get some of your luck when I go!

Beach party should be fun! Wear that adorable hat and slather on the sunscreen!

Laurie
09-18-2019, 12:26 PM
Sorry to hear S wasn’t feeling well. Congrats on the great buffalo wins!!


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clemi
09-18-2019, 02:07 PM
Congratulations on your awesome buffalo run Elf! I hope S is feeling better, best of luck today!

tee2green
09-18-2019, 02:20 PM
Wow, what a great Buffalo run! Sorry about S being sick. Getting sick on vacation is never fun but hopefully it was brief and you'll have a blast at the beach party.

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dvandentop
09-18-2019, 04:08 PM
Painful have said the cruise ships pay Best the first two nights is that your experience? Let me know how the rest of the slots feel after day 2 congrats on the big wins sorry to hear the food in the dining room wasn't good

Nhcris
09-18-2019, 04:30 PM
Painful have said the cruise ships pay Best the first two nights is that your experience? Let me know how the rest of the slots feel after day 2 congrats on the big wins sorry to hear the food in the dining room wasn't good

Derek, you know better than that! I have heard that since my first cruise, but I have never seen any indication of it. What I do see is that the casino is busiest on the first night, so more big hits are likely. By the end of the trip, people are either out of bankroll or sick of the casino, so it's less crowded. My hand pays and best hits have been scattered throughout the cruises, and at times when the casino wasn't busy at all, so pretty much no one even saw them.

dvandentop
09-18-2019, 04:34 PM
Derek, you know better than that! I have heard that since my first cruise, but I have never seen any indication of it. What I do see is that the casino is busiest on the first night, so more big hits are likely. By the end of the trip, people are either out of bankroll or sick of the casino, so it's less crowded. My hand pays and best hits have been scattered throughout the cruises, and at times when the casino wasn't busy at all, so pretty much no one even saw them.LOL yeah I figured it sounded like bullshit but you never know l.

dvandentop
09-18-2019, 04:35 PM
Looks like you will be getting many more Cruise offers with that many points accumulated * $5 per point I'm guessing?

Elf70
09-18-2019, 06:26 PM
Painful have said the cruise ships pay Best the first two nights is that your experience? Let me know how the rest of the slots feel after day 2 congrats on the big wins sorry to hear the food in the dining room wasn't good

I agree with Chris on this one. It seems just as much luck last night as earlier in the week. Last night someone in our group won the Major on Rising Fortunes ($5800) and not 5 minutes later another person in our group on the next machine over won the Grand ($40,000)!

Elf70
09-18-2019, 06:28 PM
Looks like you will be getting many more Cruise offers with that many points accumulated * $5 per point I'm guessing?

We have been unable to figure out how the points work. There also are double points periods throughout the day/night. 10k points earns a free cruise from what I’ve heard.

dvandentop
09-18-2019, 06:30 PM
I agree with Chris on this one. It seems just as much luck last night as earlier in the week. Last night someone in our group won the Major on Rising Fortunes ($5800) and not 5 minutes later another person in our group on the next machine over won the Grand ($40,000)!Damn thats.amazing especially.since we all know how hard rising fortunes can be

tee2green
09-18-2019, 06:49 PM
I agree with Chris on this one. It seems just as much luck last night as earlier in the week. Last night someone in our group won the Major on Rising Fortunes ($5800) and not 5 minutes later another person in our group on the next machine over won the Grand ($40,000)!Wow, that's amazing. Wish it had been you for that Grand!

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Luckylinda123
09-18-2019, 07:20 PM
Great wins! It’s a lucky group you are gambling with. Sorry S got sick

aaron5
09-18-2019, 07:27 PM
I agree with Chris on this one. It seems just as much luck last night as earlier in the week. Last night someone in our group won the Major on Rising Fortunes ($5800) and not 5 minutes later another person in our group on the next machine over won the Grand ($40,000)!

I hope you get some of that luck!

Is Kevin allowed to play with the group on the ship? I always have luck when playing with him.

Elf70
09-18-2019, 09:59 PM
I hope you get some of that luck!

Is Kevin allowed to play with the group on the ship? I always have luck when playing with him.

Yes. I saw him at VP and saw the hosts playing a few times.

dvandentop
09-18-2019, 11:09 PM
I hope you get some of that luck!

Is Kevin allowed to play with the group on the ship? I always have luck when playing with him.They are degens just like the rest of us lol

Elf70
09-19-2019, 07:23 PM
Oh Lord the ship is rocking today. I just put on a sea band and hope it helps fast!

clemi
09-19-2019, 08:23 PM
Oh Lord the ship is rocking today. I just put on a sea band and hope it helps fast!

Hoping the rocking passes and the sea band works!

foamy
09-19-2019, 10:35 PM
Oh Lord the ship is rocking today. I just put on a sea band and hope it helps fast!

When we went out fishing with CTslotters it was rough and they asked if I took motion sickness pills I didn't but after about 8 Yuenglings I didn't care. hhh

dvandentop
09-20-2019, 02:17 AM
Oh Lord the ship is rocking today. I just put on a sea band and hope it helps fast!How does that work is it like one of those rubber wristbamds?

Does it help to sit in room look out balcony?

CTslotters
09-20-2019, 02:31 AM
When we went out fishing with CTslotters it was rough and they asked if I took motion sickness pills I didn't but after about 8 Yuenglings I didn't care. hhh

Hahaha! Yes, the more you drink the less boat rocking you feel Elf70!

Thanks for all the updates, hope you hit smooth seas and lots of jackpots at the tail end of the trip! :)


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Elf70
09-20-2019, 11:40 AM
How does that work is it like one of those rubber wristbamds?

Does it help to sit in room look out balcony?

They’re fabric bands with a plastic piece that sitting on some nerve on your wrist. I post a picture when I’m back in the land of real WiFi. Once I figured out how to wear them properly they helped a lot.

Elf70
09-20-2019, 11:49 AM
Yesterday morning I played Buffalo Good for several hours and ended up down $150. I stopped when it was time for my afternoon massage. The massage was great. Unfortunately shortly after I became very very seasick. I’ll spare you the details. S really came through and made sure I was alright.

I made myself go to the casino for the last freeplay drawings late last night. Both the MSC Casino and Cosmo have been having drawings for us on most days. I still haven’t one anything. Actually I did win $100 in FP from a hot seat drawing.

Today the seas are still rough but I’m feeling fine. I’m going to make sure to eat. Yesterday I had very little food. We are docking in Nassau. The weather does not look very good but I think we’ll head to Atlantis anyway. (It won’t be raining in the casino [emoji3]). More later.

Nhcris
09-20-2019, 02:12 PM
Have fun at Atlantis! It's a pretty impressive place. I am happy to hear the wristbands worked out.

I have a couple quick questions for you since I will be on Seaside in 2 weeks! Were you happy with the machines in the smoking area of the casino? I am having a hard time remembering it from my last cruise, plus I am sure they changed things up since then.

Also, did you happen to see what brands of cigarettes (marlboro silver, pall mall?) are offered in the store onboard and the prices? Also, I am pretty sure they let you take them with you (Princess keeps them until the last night like alcohol purchases) but I am not positive. I'm not sure how many to bring with.

Hopefully you will win a drawing tonight. Usually the last night is the best!

Elf70
09-20-2019, 04:09 PM
Have fun at Atlantis! It's a pretty impressive place. I am happy to hear the wristbands worked out.

I have a couple quick questions for you since I will be on Seaside in 2 weeks! Were you happy with the machines in the smoking area of the casino? I am having a hard time remembering it from my last cruise, plus I am sure they changed things up since then.

Also, did you happen to see what brands of cigarettes (marlboro silver, pall mall?) are offered in the store onboard and the prices? Also, I am pretty sure they let you take them with you (Princess keeps them until the last night like alcohol purchases) but I am not positive. I'm not sure how many to bring with.

Hopefully you will win a drawing tonight. Usually the last night is the best!

The cigs are $42 a carton and I was able to take them with me. I believe there is a 20% discount on 3 cartons. I’ll check tonight and let you know brands.

The entire side of the casino opposite the table games is considered smoking. All the good machines are over there. I believe they try to have only part of it smoking but everyone is smoking all over at night. I have absolutely killed it on Buffalo Gold and Buffalo Max. 2 more big wins this morning. The Rising Fortune bonuses have been disappointing. Very small balls.

Elf70
09-20-2019, 04:14 PM
This morning I had a good run again on Buffalo.

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Some other nice wins.

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I got booted out of the casino to go on my excursion. I walked away $1600 ahead. Yeah! I’m well under my budgeted loss. Thanks to my 2 Buffalo machines. Hopefully I won’t donk it all back tonight.

We tried to cancel Atlantis and just walk around the port because of the weather but it was a 50% charge so we’re going. Will probably end up in the casino. Lol.

tee2green
09-20-2019, 04:18 PM
The cigs are $42 a carton and I was able to take them with me. I believe there is a 20% discount on 3 cartons. I’ll check tonight and let you know brands.

The entire side of the casino opposite the table games is considered smoking. All the good machines are over there. I believe they try to have only part of it smoking but everyone is smoking all over at night. I have absolutely killed it on Buffalo Gold and Buffalo Max. 2 more big wins this morning. The Rising Fortune bonuses have been disappointing. Very small balls.Small balls.can be quite disappointing[emoji23]
Continued good luck, BG is one of my favorites now.

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Elf70
09-20-2019, 10:47 PM
Have fun at Atlantis! It's a pretty impressive place. I am happy to hear the wristbands worked out.

I have a couple quick questions for you since I will be on Seaside in 2 weeks! Were you happy with the machines in the smoking area of the casino? I am having a hard time remembering it from my last cruise, plus I am sure they changed things up since then.

Also, did you happen to see what brands of cigarettes (marlboro silver, pall mall?) are offered in the store onboard and the prices? Also, I am pretty sure they let you take them with you (Princess keeps them until the last night like alcohol purchases) but I am not positive. I'm not sure how many to bring with.

Hopefully you will win a drawing tonight. Usually the last night is the best!

They have Marlboro Silver.

Elf70
09-21-2019, 01:18 PM
We’ll we’re off the ship. I was really surprised that the casino did not comp any of my on board charges. I spoke with one of my buddies who played much more than me and nothing was taken off her bill either. Interesting. I got a certificate for a cruise for 2 anywhere MSC goes. It for the “Bella Experience” which is a down grade from the trip we were just one. What’s everyone’s experience with this? My understanding from friends that gambling and cruise is that spa and specialty food charges are often removed.

Anyway, It was an outstanding cruise and we’ll cruise with Cosmo again next year if the timing works. At the request of our Cosmo hosts I’ll be writing up a TR on Vegas Fanatics. I’ll copy and paste it here.

clemi
09-21-2019, 02:45 PM
So glad you had a fun cruise, safe travels home and looking forward to your TR!

FL Mary
09-21-2019, 03:18 PM
Glad you had a fun cruise! I'm going to San Juan on a cruise next February so can't wait for your trip report!

BorgataBabe
09-21-2019, 04:49 PM
Sounds like you had an awesome time other than the food not being up to par. Congrats on your HP’s!

The hubby and I are cruising back to Bermuda in May 2020 to celebrate our 25th, Bermuda is my favorite place, I could sit at Horseshoe Bay Beach everyday. It will be our 3rd time cruising to Bermuda and our 7th cruise.


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Elf70
09-21-2019, 05:28 PM
I just had to post this picture. My cabin number was 9255. Can you all see why I constantly walked in the wrong direction when going to my cabin? It took my until yesterday to train myself to walk in the correct direction.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190921/3855a031485838dc2f241ef839f3876d.jpg

Pat
09-21-2019, 08:50 PM
I just had to post this picture. My cabin number was 9255. Can you all see why I constantly walked in the wrong direction when going to my cabin? It took my until yesterday to train myself to walk in the correct direction.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190921/3855a031485838dc2f241ef839f3876d.jpg

Totally understand that. On another note, I actually know someone by the name of Lanikai

emmas
09-22-2019, 08:13 PM
Sounds like you and S had a fantastic trip despite both of you getting sick. Congrats on a wonderful cruise.

dvandentop
09-23-2019, 07:50 PM
So which way was the right direction to the right?


Also wow very shocked that they did not remove any onboard charges from your bill especially knowing how you play

Elf70
09-23-2019, 08:25 PM
So which way was the right direction to the right?


Also wow very shocked that they did not remove any onboard charges from your bill especially knowing how you play

Glad you can’t figure it out either! To the left.

I spoke with a fellow cruiser who had about twice my play. She did not get anything comped either. (except for one specialty dinner we both got comped). My credit card has not been charged by the cruise line yet so maybe there’s still hope??

dvandentop
09-24-2019, 10:28 PM
Let us know if you hear more on the comp situation
If nothing off your bill then will prob effect my play when I got since doesnt seem like back end comps are as realistic as land based?

Elf70
09-25-2019, 06:06 PM
My charges came through - no comps. I checked with my Chicago friend who played more and she had nothing comped. I know of a person who lost mid 5 figures. I’m going to see if I can find out if she got anything comped. I would certainly hope so!

Anyway, the overall trip cost for S and me, including gambling, was way under my budget. Mostly because I restrained myself in the casino. My daily budget for gambling was 1/2 my normal Vegas daily budget and I lost less than half of that. I got lots of play for very little money the last 3 days. It’s just so darn easy just to download money directly to the cruise card! I’m happy with the amount of play I got and the overall cost of the cruise. It was an outstanding time and well worth the money spent to bring S along and spent to gamble! I’d cruise MSC again for sure.

A friend who cruises (and gambles) a lot said that she believe cruise comps are more based on loss than on amount played. Unlike Vegas.

Elf70
09-25-2019, 07:49 PM
Here’s the text from the TR I posted on Vegas Fanatics. I’m leaving the picture out as you’ve seen all the good ones.


Cruising with Cosmo

I haven’t done a TR in awhile but really wanted to share our epic adventure on last week’s Cosmo VIP cruise. We were aboard the MSC Seaside for seven days that went by way to quickly. It was an absolutely amazing trip. Ports included San Juan, St Thomas, St Marten, and Nassau. What an amazing and fun week it was!

The night before the cruise many of my fellow Cosmo cruisers and I stayed at the ALoft hotel in Miami. The Cosmo crew, Kevin, Catie, Desiree, Rebecca, and Mary started our week long party off with a meet and greet with open bar and appetizers. It was a great start to the trip and a great way to get to know everyone we’d spend the next week with.

My ALoft hotel room had a mini wrap around balcony. Just like being at Cosmo!

Saturday morning a bus picked us up at the hotel and we were off to the port. We all had upgraded cruise packages provided by Cosmo so we got to bypass all the check in lines and were on the ship in record time.

My cruise cabin had a mini wrap around balcony. Just like being at Cosmo!

After leaving Miami, first on the agenda was a meet and greet with the MSC casino staff in the Seaview Lounge. Drinks flowed and appetizers were consumed. We all got a Cosmo backpack full of Cosmo swag.

After that we, of course, headed to the casino. Many handpays and big wins happened night one and throughout the trip. I no longer believe the rumor that cruise ships tighten the casino after a few days. At least this one didn’t. Several days into the cruise someone from our group won the Major on Rising Fortunes for about $5800 and later that night another Cosmo cruiser won the Grand for more than $40,000! Several other people hit handpays over $5000. Then on the last night a Cosmo cruiser hit the Lightning Links Grand for over $20,000! I had several handpays on Buffalo Gold and Buffalo Max throughout the cruise. The game selection overall was very good. The casino hosts, slot attendants, and drink servers were all wonderful. Here’s a few pictures of the slots.

The MSC casino had, exclusively for Cosmo cruisers, freeplay giveaways worth several thousand dollar throughout the cruise. Cosmo also has several drawings for freeplay during the trip. Fun times!

Our first day was a sea day. All of our cabins came with 2 free massages and free thermal spa access. Most of us took advantage of this during the cruise. I had my first massage ever and enjoyed it so much I booked another one for later in the week.

Dinner that night was at one of the specialty restaurants. Teppanyaki was very enjoyable and delicious. Our chef was so entertaining!

Our first port was San Juan. Several of us disembarked at the same time and ended up on a bus tour of some sites. We all abandoned the tour before it finished and headed back towards the port for drinks and shopping. Those tour buses really need to consider serving cocktails!

Next up was St. Thomas. We had an entire day there and lots from our group did many different things.

Dinner that night was in the main dining room. It was Italian night. Here’s Cosmo host Rebecca and her husband David dancing during dinner.

That night my new cruise friend Melissa and I played Buffalo Gold and Buffalo Max side by side for hours!! Drinks we flowing and handpays were happening! I also won $100 in freeplay during a “hot seat” giveaway. My first drawing win ever!

Next was St Marten and my favorite day of the cruise. Cosmo put together an amazing beach day for us all. Covered loungers, open bar, delicious food, a band playing, sand, sun, and beautiful warm water. I really can’t describe how perfect the day was.

Here’s our private beach area. Notice the purple Cosmo flag welcoming us!

Here’s Kevin on a jet ski. It looks like I chopped his head off in the picture. Lol. Sorry, but he was moving fast! I’m also sorry I didn’t get a picture of his epic wipeout directly in front of our group. Lol. He survived.

Next we had another sea day. Unfortunately the seas were very rough and the ride was tough. Lots of us were queasy during the day but still managed to enjoy the casino and more massages and spa time. That night there was another Cosmo freeplay drawing in the casino.

Our last day was in Nassau. Before making it into the port I had more luck on “my” Buffalo machines.

Many of us headed to the Atlantis water park. I’d never seen Atlantis. It’s a beautiful resort.

One last night in the casino and the cruise came to an end. I had some good luck on Lightning Links. My $930 win was on the machine that hit the Grand later that evening. The MSC casino staff did one final freeplay drawing for our group for $3000.

The Seaside was a beautiful ship. The staff was great. It was wonderful meeting so many fellow Cosmo slot players. I encourage everyone who plays at Cosmo to talk to your host and see how you can join in on the fun on the next cruise.

Thanks Kevin, Catie, Desiree, Rebecca, and Mary for hosting this awesome adventure. I can’t wait for the next one.

Hopefully some of the other Cosmo Cruisers from the forum will add their thoughts. [emoji3][emoji3]

zeus
09-25-2019, 07:58 PM
It sounds like the Cosmo took great care of you guys and made it a first class experience. Almost unheard of these days. Other than the seasickness it sounds like the perfect trip. Thanks for the write up!

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Nhcris
09-25-2019, 09:04 PM
Great write up Elf! Sounds like Cosmo and MSC really did well by you all. Sorry about the rough seas, but there is something very cool about having to hang on to your slot machine when the ship is rocking and rolling :beguiled: You have me very excited to board her in 10 short days! I will say hello to your Buffalo!

Elf70
09-25-2019, 09:09 PM
Great write up Elf! Sounds like Cosmo and MSC really did well by you all. Sorry about the rough seas, but there is something very cool about having to hang on to your slot machine when the ship is rocking and rolling :beguiled: You have me very excited to board her in 10 short days! I will say hello to your Buffalo!

I hope you’ll do a TR! It will let me vicariously live my cruise through you. And yes! Those damn Buffalo were hot!

bluesfan
09-29-2019, 04:39 PM
Thanks for the write up Elf, glad the casino treated you well!

Just a side note on comps, when I cruise I go with NCL, I use the players card for Casino’s at sea. On the last sea day, I have them review play and that is when they comp stuff off the bill. They do not do it without me asking.

Elf70
09-29-2019, 09:57 PM
Thanks for the write up Elf, glad the casino treated you well!

Just a side note on comps, when I cruise I go with NCL, I use the players card for Casino’s at sea. On the last sea day, I have them review play and that is when they comp stuff off the bill. They do not do it without me asking.

What’s frustrating is that the casino hosts told us all week that on the last night they would review our play and issue comps. I haven’t heard of anyone yet that got anything comped. I’m going to check with a few more people next weekend. I can’t believe that the people who played very very big didn’t get anything.

dvandentop
09-29-2019, 10:06 PM
What’s frustrating is that the casino hosts told us all week that on the last night they would review our play and issue comps. I haven’t heard of anyone yet that got anything comped. I’m going to check with a few more people next weekend. I can’t believe that the people who played very very big didn’t get anything.Yeah really hard to imagine since it sounds like there was some massive play!

bluesfan
10-01-2019, 11:11 PM
What’s frustrating is that the casino hosts told us all week that on the last night they would review our play and issue comps. I haven’t heard of anyone yet that got anything comped. I’m going to check with a few more people next weekend. I can’t believe that the people who played very very big didn’t get anything.. Sorry to hear that, I do hope you all do get something.