Hoping to get some expertise from members who have taken Alaskan cruises as to whether or not this seems to be a value in comparison to what they have paid for similar cruises. The details: I (and 2 other couples) have Caesar's 7 Star certificates for a free cruise, minimum 7 days. I consider myself a new cruiser having only taken a short Caribbean cruise 25 years ago. With the certificate we are limited to Norwegian and specifically to the Bliss. Preferred travel dates in July. 1 itinerary available only. The week we are looking at is 7/22/23-7/29/23. The certificate comp is for ocean view room but can upgrade if you wish and available to balcony.
Cruise fare p/p - $1889 x 2 = $3778.00 (comped)
port fees 599.60
drink pkg grat. 305.20
spec dining x 1 grat 20.00
Admin fee $140 x 2 280.00
service fee $140 x 2 280.00
Total cost for two people, $1484.80 for 7 days, Norwegian Bliss, ocean view room. The drink package is something we know we want, not heavy drinkers but even 3 a day plus sodas makes it a deal. I realize there will be other costs involved including airfare (a hefty one flying from PA to Seattle), hotel night prior to cruise, and having to have our passports renewed. Also need to contact my health insurer for specifics of medical coverage and look into travel insurance if needed. Those are costs we are willing to pay if the cruise cost is a deal we might not normally be able to get outside of the certificate.
Considering that the cruise is only 5 months out and wasn't booked far in advance, does this sound like a great deal? I have visited Alaska 40 years ago when I was a teenager and loved the beauty of it. My husband and other couples have never been but we are all newly retired in our 50's and early 60's and think this may just be a trip to remember and if a good value, want to take advantage of it.
Any thoughts, comments, or tips would be greatly appreciated. We are on a bit of a time constraint as I know these rooms may sell out very quickly. As of now, NCL confirmed that they do have ocean views available for both the week of 7/22 and 7/29.
Thanks in advance!