123firsttimer

I got a 25% onboard credit in late April for a May 7th sailing - way past final payment. I originally asked about an upgrade but they wanted to give me a gty which I didn't want. I had to specifically ask for the credit - nothing was offered without asking.

First cruise ever last week

We got super lucky $3700 for 2 (child was free) for mid ship balcony got a $175 OBC after a price drop. Upsold for 2 bedroom Haven on the Gem for $400 per person 2 days before sailing (child again free) so $4500 before taxes gratuities etc.

Was a great deal but would never sail without being in the Haven and would never pay $9500 rack rate for 2. So doesn't look likely for us to sail again......

Wow it's disappointing to hear about the pool!! Is this and the Haven courtyard the only benefit then to a haven vs regular suite?

Thank you!!!

Hi,

We are considering an upsell from a mid balcony to a Haven 2 bedroom Villa - we do not need the 2nd bedroom but want to stay mid ship as this is our 1st cruise.

I am considering it for the following:

priority boarding, tendering (if we are lucky enough to stop at GSC)

Having a special area for shows where we don't have to rush for seats - is this true on the gem?

Having a nicer option for lunch and breakfast.

Does the Haven on the gem have their own restaurant?

Not having the stress of finding chairs near the pool each day - I would be happier away from the pool but we have an 8 year old to keep an eye on.

What are the other major benefits?

I really appreciate any insight you may have. This is our 1st cruise and I am trying to make it a great stress free vacation but am not sure if the extra $$$ for the Haven or a suite.

Do suites offer all of the above minus the private pool area?

Thx so much!

I don't really enjoy haggling but if I want something I think about the price I would be happy with. I start a few dollars below - if I get it great if not whatever. What I have learned is that you cannot haggle too much on things you absolutely must have - too much emotion involved :-)

Thank you!!

Promise I won't try and refill gallon sized bottles From the public water area on the ship!

What I meant was I may possibly buy 1 or 2 gallon sized water bottles in port canaveral to refill our empty small bottles from the case we carry on in NY :-)

Hi we are sailing on the Gem and plan on bringing a case of water on in NY. We are big water drinkers and are wondering if we can bring in another case in port canaveral?

We plan on renting a car there and thought we could grab another case or possibly a gallon size bottle to use for refills on the ship.

Are we allowed to carry on sealed water/Gatorade when getting back on the ship in port canaveral?

Would prefer not to carry it all in in NY

Thank you!!!!

Is there that much of a difference in these rooms? Trying to figure out if the mini is worth the extra $$. The floor plans look exactly the same besides the couch being a bit larger. Thank you!

Are your kids happy to go? Thank you and have a great vacation!!