pguasto

We have done past cruising with Holland America Lines and have decided to do the Mediterranean on HAL in the spring. The problem we are having is there is too little time in port. There is only one day in Naples (hard to see Pompei and Capri), only one day in Rome (is there time for Vatican, Colliseum and Trevi), and one day in Florence. My question is has anyone any suggestions about what to see if you only had one day in port? Also, is it better to do it on your own, or book with HAL for the shore excursions? And lastly, I understand that the Nieuw Amsterdam has pool cabanas. Has anyone rented one of these and was it worth it? Thanks, and if you're sailing to the Med. in May 2012 let me know.

Frank

Almost all European cruises will only give you one day in each port, occasionally they will overnight in a port or two. Med. cruises are basically a way to sample different cities and countries with the idea to going back on your own to those you find most interesting. Also if you have already been to a city it's a great way to go back for just a day and ramble around for a second time. We have taken 2 Med. cruises and enjoyed going back to Rome, Florence, Naples and Venice and just taking in some secondary sights we had originally missed. For the new ports we did a lot of research and took tours we thought were the most important or most interesting to us.

If you take organized tours, you'll be surprised how much they can fit in a full day tour. We always take the ships tours, although more expensive than local tours, it's nice to know you won't miss the ship.

parkimedes

You sound like an "on the beaten path" kind of traveler. As someone who has never done that, I'd suggest try it on your own. I've done single day excursions in Sevilla, Frankfurt, Venice and Jerusalem, and really enjoyed them all. Look for a museum to check out, walk around the nice neighborhoods looking for shops or restaurants you like. Try to meet some people, ask for suggestions on things to see, etc. My driving philosophy has been that I'd rather learn about the people, than the things (buildings, monuments, etc). Maybe you can rent bikes and cover more distance that way.

If you want to browse a map with videos about places check out http://www.vmap.com

qwovadis

Did all those ports with Princess in the past

Prefer regional trains cheap and self guiding

seat61.com eurocheapo.com budget guides each city

but check tours also reviews on your ship

cruisecritic.com tours are easier but way more costly.

Happy Planning!

pguasto

we may take some ship excursions to save time, thank you all for your help