raspberry ridge

I agree with the advice that a longer sailing (7-10)generally has a more lively evening vibe, especially in the Caribbean.I've done two Alaskan sailings however and will "warn" you that they were extremely quiet in the evenings. Various entertainments were offered but most people spend their days outdoors in more strenuous activities and they are tired and early to bed.For me that is a plus as I'd rather stargaze in the less light polluted night skies, read, or watch a movie than hang out in a lounge, but after 10PM it will be a VERY quiet ship and during the day most people will be ashore. For us the "sweet spot" in cruising if we want plenty of company and activities is Royal Caribbean.It might be a good fit for you. I've cruised over 30 times (Carnival,Royal,Celebrity,Norwegian,HAL, & Disney)and each has pluses and minuses not only by line but by itinerary and voyage length IMO.

We will be taking a TA cruise on Celebrity Silhouette from Miami in April and returning several weeks later on MSC Magnifica. I assume each has their own parking garage next to berth spaces but I have no idea how far apart they might be. Can anyone advise regarding the distances between them especially recommendations for moving luggage to car at disembarkation? Would doing this be a better option than staying in a local hotel and using their parking and shuttle or taxi? we have cruised quite a bit but never using two different lines and only rarely from Miami. Thank you so much for any advice offered!

Both are lovely ships in their own way. Transatlantic crossing weather can be quite variable. I went on a TA in May where I was freezing the whole time and only able to use the balcony wrapped in deck blankets and have been on others a month earlier that were quite comfortable on deck. The reason I say this is that Constellation has a thalassotherapy heated pool. Reflection has a solarium covered pool but it is not warm like the T-pool.Constellation is older, fewer specialty restaurants, and on average smaller cabins than Reflection. It does have some of the biggest balconies afloat in aft concierge or family verandahs though and although sailing on Apex a few months back has given her competition for my favorite ship status Connie is still the one I like best and I believe I have sailed 3 TAs on that ship.So it really depends on what you are looking for. I am not able to advise on which side would be better cabin choice as I've not done a TA into Barcelona. Of course 3/4 or more of the time your view will literally be only "water, water everywhere".LOL Bon voyage!