smilesntravels

40 minutes ago, RFerrington said:

I'm a little confused about what cabin category you are considering.  One of the responses above mentioned suite....so I'm going with that.  While I love the Quantum class ships (Anthem), I am NOT a fan of the Grand Suites on the Q class.  They have a wall that separates the bedroom and sitting area and it makes the suite seem very small and cramped.  I have never been in an Owner's Suite on the Q class but I think they are very scarce to begin with.  The suites, in general, are much bigger on the Oasis class (Allure) than they are on the Q class.  That rule goes all the way from Junior Suites up to the Star Class suites.  Since the Q class ships are narrow (as compared to the O class) there is just less room....pretty simple.  All things being equal, I would probably want the longer 9 night itin but if you're looking for a nice, big suite, you're going to get a better experience (IMO) on Allure than you would on Anthem.  Of course, as a general rule, Anthem suites are cheaper than corresponding suites on Allure so there's that.....

Well thanks for that.  The one thing I didn't ask about was what cabin to get 🙂 .  The man just mentioned that he's getting a grand suite on his next anthem cruise.  So I said great, and mentioned that we're getting a balcony cabin.  I'd love to try a suite sometime, but the cost is kind of high.  I plan a good deal of trips for us and always like nice hotels, newer ships, a nice all inclusive resort, etc.  So O class is wider than Q class.  I think I read something about that.  I read a lot of reviews, just don't post a lot in here.

I agree on the 9 nt cruise, too.  As long as we're in a balcony cabin on a nice ship, that is what I want!

1 hour ago, florida eagle said:

Before Covid I read where Mariner was Amped Up and sent to Port Canaveral but it was supposedly being set up for young people. I took that to mean a young and more partying crowd. 3 and 4 day cruises. That was the gist of the article. And of course you have your views to cruising.  Nice class of ship. 

Thanks for pointing that out.  That's part of the reason I wasn't really looking for a four nt cruise, or one out of Miami.  We're not old, but not 20's-30's anymore either :(.  We do drink and are friendly, but I'd rather have more kids than the real young party crowd.

44 minutes ago, firefly333 said:

The cdc CSO is full of mandates and doesnt fall off until nov 1st. Includes things like masks at the private island and no self serve buffets. Just further out might be fewer cdc rules in place. Btw coco cay is pretty fabulous imo. 

 

When you say spa what is it you want? I love the solarium on rcl ships. Shaded pool and I need to get out of the sun and like to read. The solarium on oasis serves meals, kinda healthy but meals. I ate there quite a bit to avoid the crowds at the buffet anyway. It's a gorgeous poo, with shade and usually plenty of seating.

Oh I was just thinking out loud about the spa cabins on other lines.  I've just noticed that RCL doesn't have spa cabins, and since we haven't been on one yet I am guessing you just have to buy a spa pass for the week if you want.  Not that I spend tons of time there, I just like the idea of a spa cabin and going a few times.  There's never enough time to do all that I want, that's why I really would like the 9 nt. cruise.

I watch the news often and have been following the pandemic stuff all along, but am not one here that often and don't know what 'cso' means.  So those are mandates issued by CDC regarding cruises? Hmmm, and I didn't even want to cruise in Sept, but the itinerary and port location along with price all sounded good.   I was fine with mask wearing and all that, but it won't be much fun wearing one outside on an island :).  

33 minutes ago, CaroleC said:

For me it would definitely be the 9N on Anthem. Fabulous ship and you’re getting an extra 2 nights on board. The longer the cruise the better imo. Having said that, I love Allure too. Voyager class not so much.

Thanks CaroleC.  I agree- the longer the better!  It's just little things I'm trying to decide on because I love to travel and we usually only do one trip a year.

Just now, Sunshine3601 said:

We have sailed on all there ships    My personal choice would be the NYE cruise on the Anthem.    9 nights is so much better than a 7 night cruise.   Plus should be an easy drive from VA to Cape Liberty, NJ.      I sailed out of this port many times and it is very convenient/easy to drive up to.     I have sailed Anthem several times and I prefer this ship over the Allure.     I am in my early 50's w/o children on vacation but we had lots of fun activities to do on the Anthem - love the bumper cars too!

Allure was nice to see the aqua show and the ice skating show but I don't know we just like Anthem better.     A NYE cruise will be lots of fun!   They go above and beyond on holidays too!

I'm responding to all the responses so far.  Thanks Sunshine.  I was hoping people would elaborate in their responses.  I've never been on a holiday cruise, and I'm sure it would be fun, different and maybe more exciting.  So you liked the Anthem?  I'm sure it's a very nice ship.  I don't know why I got a so-so opinion of it from the reviews.  The price is almost the same as the 7 nt. Allure.  Maybe we'll just do a separate trip to Orlando another time.  So hard to decide 🙂 .

6 minutes ago, NancyIL said:

I have no opinion regarding your choice of cruise ships. However, October 1st begins Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebration, and it will be exciting - but crowded. If you decide to go there, you’ll need to have admission tickets in advance in order to make theme park reservations. 

Thanks Nancy- good to know about the 50th!!  I looked a while ago at when is a good time to visit DW.  One man's blog listed everything month by month, and it looked like October was a good time to visit.  Not as scorching hot, and fall is my favorite season.  🙂 

1 minute ago, George C said:

I like oasis class and voyager class , going on oasis class is like going to Disney world children everywhere which I don’t necessarily think it’s a good thing and entertainment on voyager class is good but not as good as oasis also more food choices , we are sailing on Allure in November in a grand suite.

How nice for you regarding the grand suite.  Hubby has no interest in suites.  At least we always get a balcony.  No inside cabins! 🙂  I actually like kids, and don't mind 'some.'  But a ship full of them isn't so great.  That's why I always try to cruise when it's not a school holiday.

Voyager class- Mariner?  Did you mean less food choices on the Mariner?  I assume so.  Yes, it's a toss-up and I have a hard time deciding, and always want a longer/nicer trip.  Thanks for your response.

Thank you firefly.  Sea World wasn't on the top of my list, so that's good to know.  I've read about the amplification.  I would pick Oasis, but it doesn't have the itinerary I want, leaving out of Port Canaveral.  I suppose we could hotel in Orlando, then drive or get transportation down to Miami but that's more planning.

What do you mean about cso?  I also know Sept is hotter and more likely hurricane season.  However, I meant to mention this in first post--- the Allure itinerary in late Sept is less full than later in Oct.  I probably shouldn't book based on that, but it would be nice if the ship wasn't completely full.

Hi all,

This will be hubby and my first RCI cruise, this coming fall (assuming cruises do in fact sail.)  My first two cruises were on Carnival, and he and I have both been on newer NCL and HAL cruises.  For the longest time I've been wanting to try Allure of the Seas.  I know Allure isn't so new anymore but I love all the pictures and reviews I've read.

Just looking for lots of opinions, please.  I've sort of eliminated this option, but not completely---  9 nt. Anthem of the seas NYE cruise this Dec., out of NJ.  We could drive up from VA and spend one night at hotel.  On paper it's exactly what I want--- nine nights (I always want more than seven,) five whopping days at sea (I always want more than 2-3 days at sea, and it goes to the one port I need to go to--- Labadee.)  But the reviews don't seem as good as the Allure and the pictures of the ships interior don't look as pretty as the Allure.  We went on the new Nieuw Statendam 12/19, a couple months before the pandemic started, and it was gorgeous.  The pictures of the pool area on this ship just look okay.

2nd, but main option--- 7 nt. Allure late September or early October (this year), out of Port Canaveral.  We could drive or fly down and then do another thing I've always wanted to--- go to Disney World.  I've been to Disneyland dozens of times, growing up in SoCal, but never to Disney World.  I think this is the best option as long as hubby agrees to it.  This also has a stop at Coco Cay, which I'd really like to see.  We've been to Half Moon Key, very nice, twice and would like to see another private island.

3rd option--- 4 nt. Mariner this Oct., out of Port Canaveral.  Similar to option two, BUT we could stay an extra night or two at maybe a more expensive hotel/resort in or near Disney World and go to Disney World two days instead of one, and/or Epcot, or Wild Animal Park, or Sea World, or....  I know this ship is older and it's only four nights.  This itinerary has just the one stop at Labadee, which is why I'm considering it, along with a longer Orlando portion of the trip.  Plus I'd love to sail out of Port Canaveral for a change.

Any comments/opinions on the ships and itineraries are welcomed!  We're late 40's-early 50's w/o kids.  Hubby isn't that picky but I like the newer nicer ships.  It doesn't have to be a mega ship, although most of RCI's are.  Last two cruises we got the drink package on NCL and HAL, which was great.  They both also have spa categories and RCI doesn't seem to, but I'm looking forward to going on one of their cruise and seeing Labadee.

Thank you!

On 12/21/2019 at 5:20 PM, Copper10-8 said:

 

Doesn't work that way; the captain has ultimate responsibility and is always on the bridge next to (or behind) the pilot when entering or leaving a port

I agree.  The new captain of the NS gave a very nice explanation of why we missed our port of Key West on 12/21 due to high winds.  He mentioned how the pilot said something like 'yes, lets go ahead and go for it.'  Then the captain explained how the pilot thought it was fine and dandy, but he the captain would be responsible for any damage/injuries that occurred while trying to get into that port during gale force winds.

I feel bad for the captain and officers involved.  I'm sure none of them willingly thought 'gee, lets just crash into this other ship,' because unfortunately mother nature doesn't always cooperate when operating a huge cruise ship in rough waters and wind.

Great review!  We just got off the ship yesterday 12/22 and I'll write a review soon.  We're late 40's without kids and noticed all the kids onboard were very well behaved.  Once we joined a hot tub with two boys, since we didn't want to crowd in the other one with three adults.  My husband put his watch on the side of the tub after the boys left.  Later, it was gone and we thought it fell over the edge.  So we looked but couldn't see it.  Anyway, one of the boys walked by later and it must have slid a couple feet away and they came up to us to ask if it was ours.  I thought that was so sweet of them and they didn't have to! 

4 hours ago, caribill said:

 

a) Everyone is allowed to eat in the dining room (while it is still open for lunch) on embarkation day. It used to be that only Mariner Society members could do so.

b) There will be two Mariner lunches during the cruise if the number of Mariner members cannot be accommodated in just one sitting. You would receive an invitation to attend one, not both if there are two.

 

Someone else will need to answer about the brunch.

Thank you.  The lady on the phone did say the embarkation lunch is open to everyone, I just didn't say it in my post.  Hmmm, so maybe it's a mystery champagne brunch she was talking about.  I'm looking forward to the high teas and the new eating spots on this ship!

1 hour ago, Crew News said:

The day began with partly cloudy skies and temperature in the high 70's and bumpy seas. 

Today was another day of sleeping late and another late breakfast.  Having chosen a healthier diet, I took a step backwards and opted for the corn beef hash with poached egg.  I kept watch on the prep station from my high stool table and did not see my meal being prepared before it suddenly appeared from behind me. Probably from the MDR kitchen.  Total time for breakfast was 45 minutes.

With high winds and the threat of rain on the forecast, I chose to remain on board and catch up with scanning menus interspersed with a “business communications” video series. 

Dinner in Club Orange had a special veal cutlet that was my initial choice until I noticed the regular menu wiener schnitzel which I really liked on my last cruise.  The schnitzel covered over half the plate and was easily cut.  After living in Germany for many years the schnitzel was tasty but would have been better if smothered with mushroom gravy, AKA Jagerschnitzel.

I have noted that unlike the Koningsdam, my shower door has a clear gasket to ensure a tight closing, using the toilet does not require a five degree rotation of my knees, there is no nightlight near the bathroom door, and the Lido Market chairs are easier to push back from the tables. 

There are three US electrical outlets at my desk, two European outlets, and one USB port.  

The food and service in the Lido Market is exceptional with the servers going above and beyond to make customers happy.  Drinks are offered within seconds of taking a seat. 

My Room Steward, Matt, is one of the best.  The ship seems to be well maintained and the crew very accommodating.  Hopefully my opinions will not change as my cruise continues.

For those following this thread, I snagged the last two 6-inch chocolate chip cookies from the Dutch Café before the 5:00 PM sail-away.

Tomorrow is Gala Night (Gold Menu) and I will see if Club Orange makes a difference in surf & turf (actually just two lobster tails and no turf).

More later.

Thank you and danke for all of the info you're giving us.  Has anyone said why the seas are bumpy/choppy, as in is it always this way in December?  I remember from our first HAL cruise several years ago, which was in December also, that it was a bit bumpy then too.

I read from another review that their Schnitzel is pretty good.

When I talked to a lady on the phone from the Mariner Society, she told me that there is an embarkation lunch and a champagne brunch.  I've seen you, and maybe others, mention one or two Mariner lunches.  If you get a chance can you explain?  I'm sure we'll find out next week and also get the invitation(s), but am just wondering why she mentioned a brunch and you've mentioned lunches.

Hopefully there are enough of those jumbo cookies to go around 🙂 .

12 hours ago, Crew News said:

 

The MDR Silver Gala Night menu is served on the first Gala Night of each 7-day cruise and features the rack of lamb.  The Gold menu is served the second Gala Night and features surf & turf.

Great to know, thank you for the info.  I just realized that you're the Roger of that website with all the pictures :).  I used to go to beyondships .com to see pics of cruises and menus and lately have been going to your website for HAL pics.

1 hour ago, Crew News said:

 

 

My apologies again.  Rack of lamb is served on the Silver menu which is the first Gala Night for 7-day cruises.

That's okay, thanks again Roger.  I don't know what the silver menu is, but I assume for the MDR.  

On 11/24/2019 at 9:04 PM, SanDiego Single said:

I am wondering what is going on in KW the weekend before Christmas? Anything we must do?

I was wondering the same thing.  It will be my first time there and I'm still trying to find out things to do.  See you on board the N.S. next week

1 minute ago, Crew News said:

 

There experts will be onboard next and there will be a special dinner in the Canaletto featuring their wines.  Go to the kiosk on Deck across from Sel de Mer to book this special dinner/  Spaces are limited so reserve as soon as you board.

Thanks Roger.  After looking further into this wine theme cruise, I found that they would have a wine representative at Blend.  

Good to know about this special dinner at Canaletto!  We do have the alcohol/beverage package, yay, so will be trying lots of wine, etc.  I know it doesn't include all, but just having the package is nice.

I thought about posting this in our roll call for next week, but it's not very active.  Anyhow, hopefully you have time to relax and enjoy the cruise.

13 hours ago, crystalspin said:

You might have heard incorrectly -- it's $300 in spending (per stateroom) that counts as one point. You can only earn as many "Bonus Points" as there are nights in the cruise. And only passengers 1&2 get the Spending Bonus credits.

Yes, you're right about the $300...not 100.    I do know the rest.

57 minutes ago, Walfam said:

I always thought days cruised were all that counted toward Mariner levels, and whether those days were suites which counted more.  So HAL EXC excursions booked before departure count, too?    🤷🏼‍♀️ Seriously, this is a learning moment for me, so could someone please clarify?  

I just called HAL the other day, specifically talking to someone within the mariner society.  The lady told me that excursions, or any extras purchased even in advance do count towards points for mariner levels.  It's only second HAL cruise but I found out that for every $100 spent onboard (in advance as well, like the pre-paid excursions, etc.) one will get an extra point/night.

7 minutes ago, LouTheGlue said:

 

They started to appear slowly last week, I just wish they had a better location for the two huge tree's in BB Kings they really block the stage for almost everyone. The gingerbread house setup at Grand Dutch Cafe is awesome.

I did read from previous posts and reviews that they just started going up.  I thought they'd be up the week of Thanksgiving or right after.  Oh too bad about blocking the stage.

I just read that CO menus are the same as MDR menus, except for one additional entrée.  If that is correct, then the menus for MDR look great.  I've been doing searches for menus from MDR on this ship and haven't found any, so it's nice to finally be able to see some, even if from the CO.

Thank you for your ongoing review.  We'll see you onboard next week. Hopefully you enjoy your first week aboard.

I just noticed on cruise website that our sailing on the 15th is a theme cruise:  wine experts cruise, with wine experts from Chateau Ste. Michelle.  My hubby and I love to go wine tasting, so that will be an added bonus.  Did you already know this or have you heard anything about it.

Also, only if you get a chance, can you possibly let me know what night they're serving rack of lamb in the MDR?  We'll probably do one specialty restaurant and I don't want to do it the night they have rack of lamb.  Thank you..

Thank you for your review!  Great pictures.  We'll be on her next week, 12/15, when you get off.  Can't wait and I'm so glad they put up the Christmas decorations.

5 hours ago, AlexCherie said:

I think you'll love it.

For me I especially loved the touches in the cabin. Not sure it if is precisely "wood", but the rooms looked great - fresh, clean, modern. Nice flower arrangements in the hallways (not enough of them). 

Mmm. Miss it already.

Thank you.  I think I read your review of the ship as I remember your name.  I'm pretty sure we'll love it.  If only we could get a suite 😉, but as long as I have a balcony that is good enough.  The pictures of the cabins look nice, as well as the ship overall.

9 hours ago, doone said:

Please share your thoughts on this class of ship when you return, I will be curious.  Enjoy your cruise.

I've heard that some people don't like these latest two new HAL ships and I've read that sometimes the service isn't as good.  I've also read that the NS and Koningsdam are beautiful,  but I read that there isn't a library also.  Yes, we'll see.  I'm not super picky about every thing and cruises go by too fast for me.  I just happen to like newer ships, so am very happy to go on the newest HAL.  

8 hours ago, Itchy&Scratchy said:

our kiddo gets 5 unexcused absences before a social worker shows up at your door step. Our school district is very strict. I don't want to risk it...

We did it last year, though: we were on a cruise on Thanksgiving which broke down on day 3 - NCL Jade, so we had to go home and then retake the cruise a month later, and the only cruise I could afford at that time was BEFORE the Christmas break. DS missed 4 days of school, and I felt very bad about it, but at least it wasn't 5 and we weren't red flagged. So, I don't do it unless I absolutely can't help it.

DH and I can take off any time, but the kiddo can't.

Oh okay.  Yes you don't want them to be out too long.  I don't have kids, but work with them.  I was thinking if it didn't happen that much that it might be okay to have a child or two out for maybe 4-5 days once a year.  Just trying to help.  I know the prices get so high for cruises when it's a break from school!