The only time we used the golf-type umbrellas was when we got trapped in the Grill by a major downpour as we were having dinner there! It was really pouring and there is no way to leave the Grill except by going outdoors. The Grill staff got a bunch of the umbrellas and we were glad to have use of them if only for walking to the other side of the pool where you can go inside and get to the stairs. Otherwise, when we were on shore, we either waited out a cloudburst under cover, or didn't mind getting wet if more of a drizzle. The provided umbrellas are too big, in my opinion, to carry around off the ship.

Dena