I'd appreciate some current feedback on the Windjammer 'barefoot' cruises. What are they like? What do they cost? < etc. > T

Hey, <BR> <BR>You probably already checked out the homepage but, if not, here it is: <BR> <BR>http://www.windjammer.com <BR> <BR>They seem to have a lot of information...including prices. <BR> <BR>Good luck!

Jay, My wife and I took one two years ago as my birthday present. I can honestly say it was the best vacation I have ever enjoyed. I believe the cost was around $800-900 per person plus airfare. We recently returned from one of those big cruise ships and it couldn't compare. Besides the windjammer homepage, check out: www.glider.simplenet.com <BR>Great pictures, trip report etc. <BR>On a Windjammer, dressing up is a clean tee-shirt. <BR>

<BR>I've taken several "big" cruises and altho I've enjoyed them, the WJ cruise was by far the most FUN. The people who go are outgoing, friendly and well traveled. You will stop at small islands (where the large ships can't) where you can hike, relax on the beach, snorkle, dive, play volleyball and also, they stop at the more usuall large ports where you can take tours, shop,etc. The best of both worlds. WJ is extremely casual with a wide and varied clientele but everyone will be there to have a great time. Cost: $900 to $1,000 each and airfare of approx $500.oo each.

Just another side of the story for you to hear - I took a WJ singles trip on the Poly last Thanksgiving and won't be taking another one anytime soon. I researched the trip extensively before I went but was still a little disappointed. The cabins were TINY [which I expected] but there was absolutely no place on the ship to escape the constant party except your cabin with earplugs. There is no pool or entertainment [which I also expected] but I thought there would at least be a library or somewhere to go other that the deck or my cabin. Also, WJ does not do an established "meet and greet" program at the airport - you just get off a plane, find a cab and ask for your ship. Unless you are an experienced Caribbean traveler, this isn't my idea of customer service - I arrived after dark and hate cabs under any circumstances. The cruises are also just 5 nights plus an additional cost "stowaway" night, not 7 like a standard cruise. And from the Midwest, by the time you pay cruise, airfare, stowaway night and cab fare, it really wasn't any cheaper that a 7 night cruise. Maybe a non-singles trip would be better. <BR> <BR>I didn't HATE it - the ports were nice and I did enjoy not being one of 2000 tourists in the little ports, but the lack of privacy and alternate activities other than drinking at night will probably keep me on the bigger ships for awhile.