7 Day:Eastern or Western

[CourtasanSatine]

I'm still digging up info for mom and can't decided which one to pitch.Which is better?

 

[DisneyGator01]

well, techically I haven't done the 7 day (yet--33 more days to go!), but from what I have researched and read, the Eastern is more like your traditional cruise, with more day's at sea and tropical/island ports. A lot of people have recommended the Eastern for a first time cruise. I have also read that the shopping is better on the Eastern, while the Western has more excursions and ports featuring the outdoors and exotic activities (hiking ruins/diving/snorkeling).

I personally was more interested in the Western ports, but the dates didn't match with my vacation time. But I am just as excited about my Eastern cruise, and am really looking forward to the days at sea. I guess it comes down to what you are looking for--more time on the ship and onboard activities which is what seems to be the appeal of the Eastern, or more ports and onshore activities--the bigger appeal of the Western.

I have been to St. John though, and it is absolutely gorgeous--so to me, getting to go there again is a big plus for the Eastern. Since I am going with my grandmother I am glad we got the Eastern dates, since she wouldn't be up to the hiking the ruins in Mexico, or the diving and Grand Cayman--which really is what I hear most about. I think she will enjoy the shopping and island tours more.

I'll save the night life of Key West and Cozumel when I cruise again with my friends! Just means I have to take another 7 day cruise... darn it!

 

[plutojudy]

I think I like the Eastern better. We did the Eastern in April 2002 and the Western March 2003. (minus Grand Cayman, Costa Maya instead), we are trying the Western again in April to see Grand Cayman. I liked St Martin, St Thomas, and St John much more than Cozumel. I enjoyed Costa Maya.

 

[Favorite Auntie]

I love the sea days.... ....they are heaven to me. So I have to vote Eastern...

 

[WDWLVR]

To me it is totally a personal preference. Neither one is better than the other. There are things I love about both ports, but what I love you mom might not. That's why it is totally up to her.

 

[xABearx]

In my opionion....the Eastern is better for the shopping and the Western better for excursions.....your Duty Free allowance is more on the Eastern than the Western....$1200 versus $600, I believe.....also, the liquor allowance is better on the Eastern...6 Liters versus 1 Liter on the Western......Andy