I am taking my mom who is turning 75 (very able bodied) and my sister on the Carnival cruise from San Juan. St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, Fun Day At Sea, Bridgetown, Barbados, Marigot Bay, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Looking for shore excursions for hire as well as self guided recommendations. Best snorkeling spots anyone can access. Where do you HAVE to go back? What was the best value? What do you recommend? What experience was forgettable?

Also, on the cruise we have a balcony cabin and thinking of upgrading to a Grand Suite. 3 of us.....one of us will have the couch. Has anyone slept on the couch? Does housekeeping have egg crates or mattress toppers to add softness to the couch? Spa access rooms? Are they worth it? Are there any traditional events on board like a White Party where we should plan ahead with costumes/accessories? Thanks!

You might get more/better responses if you post this in the cruise forum.
Also visit Cruise Critic https://www.cruisecritic.com/smart-d...SAAEgJTJPD_BwE

I agree you should look at Cruise Critic for information on the cruise. Just one comment; the July cruises out of Puerto Rico have historically been heavily booked by Puerto Ricans who typically travel with families for their summer vacations. I don't know if that will be so this year, as so many things have changed since the hurricanes. But be prepared for big, lively groups and Puerto Rican music.

You may not have to use the couch. There are usually drop down twin beds for extra people. Yes, they do have extra padding, but the couch may be fine without it.

Depends on cost, but unless it is super cheap, I would keep the balcony and save the extra money for doing things off the ship.

I like the itinerary, but it will be super hot!

It is Carnival. You will have some loud music anyway, but it is fun!

Thank you!