"George Leppla" wrote in message
news:ha29j60k1v@enews5.newsguy.com...
>
> "John Sisker" wrote
>
>> Likewise, we also recommend sticking to the cruise lines shore
>> excursions vs. shopping on your own elsewhere with the goal of trying to
>> save a few bucks. The is because the excursions organized and sponsored
>> by the cruise lines are licensed and insured, where you don't really know
>> what you're getting with some other private operations.
>
>
> This is totally wrong... and a common misconception.
>
> The cruise lines take no legal responsibility for the operation of the
> shore excursions they sell. The cruise lines do not "sponsor" shore
> excursions... they have no say in how the shore excursion companies are
> operated. They just act as a ticketing agent with no responsibility for
> safety, quality or any losses.... even if the tour people have the cruise
> line logo on their uniform. At MOST... they will delay departure time
> for a late returning excursion.
>
> Look at
> http://www.carnival.com/CMS/Static_Templates/ShoreExcursionsTC.aspx
> "Carnival acts only as an agent for the independent tour operators
> supplying excursions or services. Independent contractors operate all
> shore excursions, including any related transportation. Carnival neither
> supervises nor controls their actions, nor makes any representation either
> expressed or implied as to their suitability. Carnival sells tickets for
> all excursions as a convenience to guests only. Tour operators,
> transportation providers, and their employees are neither agents nor
> employees of Carnival, notwithstanding their use of any signage or
> clothing which may contain the name "Carnival" or other related trade
> names or logos. It is understood and agreed that Carnival assumes no
> responsibility for, nor guarantees performance of, and in no event shall
> be liable for, any loss, damage, injury, or death in connection with said
> excursions or transportation. Please review your ticket for further
> information regarding your rights and obligations as well as those of
> Carnival. "
>
> Other cruise lines have similar policies. Look up the passenger contract,
> etc. The info is all in fine print, but it is there.
>
>
> --
> George Leppla
>
> Countryside Travel http://www.CruiseMaster.com
> Blog http://cruisemaster.typepad.com/my_weblog/
> Facebook http://www.facebook.com/CruiseMaster
>
>
> --
> George Leppla
>
> Countryside Travel http://www.CruiseMaster.com
> Blog http://cruisemaster.typepad.com/my_weblog/
> Facebook http://www.facebook.com/CruiseMaster
>
George, you're not saying a newbie should disregard the cruise line
excursions, are you? I understand the point about assuming responsibility,
but there are places, like Columbia, where I would only take a
ship-sponsored tour. And especially if I don't speak the language, I feel
better if the cruise has to get me back on time. As far as responsibility,
I'm a big boy and the risk is mine, but I think I benefit that the cruise
line has done some "vetting" which I can't do. You've got me a little
worried because I agreed with most of what John said.
Harry Cooper
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