Orlando or Tampa? & do we need our passports?

[kristeena]

Hello people,
We're first time snowbirds, presently in FL. Thinking of trying a cruise. We've never been on one (I'm scared of being seasick!). Hubby saw a quick 7 day trip to Mexico and he's always wanted to try a cruise. Since we wouldn't have to fly to the port, he thinks this would be an ideal time to do it. My questions are: 1. Would we be best to start from Orlando or Tampa? And in "best" I mean are the water calmer going out of one or the other? We're also considering driving down to Miami and going from there? For some reason, I seem to remember hearing to never to out of Miami as the waters are roughest there? My second question is: Do we need passports to get into Mexico or elsewhere when you're coming in on a ship? We've been to Mexico many times and have passports, but they're at HOME..ha! We didn't plan on leaving FL - but we can certainly get them down to us with FedEx. Overall, just considering trying out a quick 7 day cruise. I'm thinking if we get a balcony room - I'll feel better if I can see outside?!

 

[red stripe]

Hello Kristeena
these days the ships are so large, you can barely ( if at all) feel the motion. But there are plenty of things on the market for seasickness. So get something, meds, bands etc. just to set your mind at ease.

Best would be Tampa, but your true “ best” is what port is closest.

about passports, you should call the cruise line that you are sailing with and ask them. Personally I would take my passport. If anyone became ill and had to be flown back home, that passport is invaluable.

and yes on a balcony room.. in the middle of the ship, not bow or stern… and as low as possible.

tell us how this works out.