CC, Mustang Group Cruise to offer traditional lagniappe, Feb 28

Two new ports and an exciting pre-cruise option await shipmates on the 2010 Marine CC and Mustang group cruise.

Past group cruisers said they wanted to visit some different ports than on previous voyages.  And, most stressed that price was important. In addition, some traveling from parts of the country other than Florida said they would like a little something extra.  In Louisiana, they call that lagniappe (pronounced “lanyap”).

So where else to embark on the next Marine group cruise than New Orleans — “The Big Easy” — where “lanyap” is a way of life.

But first, the new ports for the group will be Costa Maya, Mexico, and Santo Tomas de Castilla, Guatemala. The cruise will also visit two familiar stops, Cozumel and Belize.  All offer abundant water sports, jungle treks and Mayan culture … and shopping.

The cruise will sail from New Orleans Feb. 28, 2010 for seven days aboard the Norwegian Spirit. Rates start at $623.54 per person for an inside cabin, $723.54 for an ocean view cabin and balcony cabins range from $993.54 to $1023.54. All prices are based on two persons to a cabin and include all taxes and fees. As always, there will be some extra group amenities (“lanyap”), such as the usual bottle of wine, a hosted cocktail party and new this year — a group picture.

And now for the “lanyap.” Arrive in New Orleans a few days early and enjoy the French Quarter, sightseeing, dining,  the city’s many attractions such as Riverwalk, the World War II Museum, Canal Street shopping and music from every direction.

Some may want to go early and do their own thing, but for those not familiar with the city, an optional group pre-cruise hotel-diniing-sightseeing package is being arranged. Details will be announced in plenty of time to make travel plans.

The annual group cruise is sponsored by the Florida chapters of the Marine Mustang Association and the USMC Combat Correspondents Association.  After the cruise, the travel agent and agency make a generous contribution to the sponsoring groups’ charities.

The best cabins will be booked early, so first come, first served. A $250 per person deposit will hold the best available cabin within each category until full payment, due by Nov. 27, 2009.  Cancel before that date and receive a full refund. Friends and family are welcome.

To book now, contact CC and Mustang Tom Kerr at 850 897-7743 or email tripstogo@cox.net.