shellster1

I appreciate the OP's review, as well everyone's honest opinions on this thread, particularly those who are considerate and leave out the snarky tones! (which is the majority here.) :)

I will be on a summer sailing with my son. While I'm worried I will feel the same, the little guy thought this ship would be "so cool", and insisted we book a CP or BW balcony to "people watch". I booked a guarantee balcony, so I'm crossing my fingers (for him.) I'll miss the OV for sure.

So grateful for CC: Because of everyone's advice, I've made all necessary resi's. I know it will be fun if I make sure to stay positive!!

And it's great. Especially when I got on one day and it was full of kids riding it, all the buttons were pushed [emoji849], swipe card and bingo YC level 15! Hahahaha so long suckers. [emoji14]

Literally, I just laughed out loud! So true with kids. Very annoying when they push all the buttons, not limited to just elevators. ;p Thank goodness mine is old enough now to realize it's actually NOT fun to stop at every floor.

In any case, thanks everyone for the more detailed info.

I've read that if a YC guest swipes their card in the elevator, the elevator then automatically goes to deck 15, bypassing every other floor, EVEN IF buttons have been pushed for other floors? :o

Did I read this correctly? Seems like it might be slightly awkward...although I'm sure my 9-year-old son would thoroughly enjoy the hack. :rolleyes:

3+ and potty trained.

Totally agree.

Our son was 10 on the cruise in February 2017.

I just asked him some of your questions. He says that the Kids Club has Wii and they played Mario Cart. He really enjoyed evenings in the kids club. He made a few friends and was happier eating with the club at the buffet than in the sit down restaurant.

 

On the tv in our cabin, Boomerang and TuneCast are the 2 kids' channels.

 

We all went on the waterslide which was great fun. It is not too fast and relatively smooth.

 

The sports bar bowling is non smoking. It's more of a bowling game than real bowling. We bought the $60 all week pass for the entire cabin to use on bowling, F1 racing and the 4D cinema. My son used this A LOT.

 

The ice cream machine on the pool deck is open specific hours each day. It's listed in the daily program. There is no fee. It was vanilla, chocolate and twist flavors.

Thanks SO MUCH!! Every piece of info helps a lot.

Thank you all very much for your help!!! I really appreciate everyone taking time out of their day to help me!!!!!:):):)

Thanks so much for bearing with me. I have many questions!

On the CC official review, it lists activities such as a hairy chest contest, then daily games like trivia, jenga, taboo, pictionary, etc.. Is there anyone who can confirm? Are they fun for kids?

Also, can anyone confirm there's Xbox at kids club for the 9 year olds?? This might sway him to try out the club.

I'm reading some quite different opinions as far as kids go on this cruise line: Some reviewers say it's great for kids, some say maybe not as much as the other lines.

Here's what I am assuming will be PROS: ??

I like the waterslide and read it might go a little slower than some prefer. This will be great as my son is, umm... "risk-challenged". (My little chicken).:D

I think the bowling will be fun. ?? It's at a sports bar. I'm guessing it's ok for kids to go? Do they allow smoking in the sports bar?

Looks like the arcade will be fun, at a price. The 4D theater looks fun, and the ride simulator??

Are there do-it-yourself ice cream machines on board? Are they included, or for a fee?

I read there's a (for fee) cooking class at the kids club? This might actually get my son to want to go to the kids club! Can anyone confirm?

I read there's no music played on the lido deck. Really? I must have read this wrong. ??

(my assumption of the) possible CONS:

1) Not as "FUN" for kids?? I guess this means more adult-oriented? Although I'm reading mixed reports on this! My son loves production shows, so maybe this won't apply to him?

2) no comedy shows ( this one is a disappointment for us.) :(

3) no cartoon network, Disney channel, Nickolodeon, or other kid shows on the TV??

If this one's true, will the internet package work for Youtube and/or netflix / Itunes?? The kiddo likes to watch kid shows before hitting the sack.

So here's my story, if anyone's wondering why I'm fussing so much: I planned a RCCL cruise in June, but am thinking of canceling to go on this ship. At first, the rock-wall, zip line, wave rider, and ice skating rink sounded great! But then I thought about it more: As those activities will be a lot of fun to watch, my son is not going to try any of those things. He doesn't like risking injury. He's a funny little dude. He more into sports like swimming, golfing, tennis, or basketball. Not too much into sports that could potentially cause him to hurt himself. As much as I'd love for him to learn rock climbing and try to surf or zip-line, I know in my heart he's not going to do it. I've offered to take him to these things here at home, and he refuses, and I don't want to be THAT mom. That's why I'm now rethinking the RCCL cruise.

Thanks for all the replies so far. I really appreciate it. So yes, my hope is that since it's June, I might see just a few more kids. MSC is the only cruise line that has a page on their website dedicated to parents traveling alone with their kids. I was really intrigued by that because that's often the case with me.

I have a couple other questions:

1) Will the YC lounge be able to make frozen non-alcoholic daiquiris for kids? Is there a charge for them?

2) Can anyone remember brands of wines in the club? Are they American, Italian, etc..??

3) If we choose to dine at a specialty restaurant, do YC guests still pay a fee? Are there tables for 2?

Thanks again, everyone. I hope I'm not being a pain. I'm currently researching every thread in my spare time trying to figure things out!!

Hi everyone,

I have been fortunate to have cruised many times in the past, but have never cruised MSC before. I have a deposit down on the Divina June 3rd from Miami in the YC. While I'm definitely NOT the type of vacationer expecting a butler to unpack for me, bring me food at any given moment, grant my every wish, etc...I decided to book a YC suite in hopes of having a somewhat private retreat to escape the crowds if or when needed. That said, I have a couple questions and hope for some input:

1) CC review says the YC decks are really windy. Are they too windy to enjoy during a sea day, given moderate weather?

2) Does YC have priority seating at the shows, or do we need to arrive early?

3) When dining the private restaurant, is there a set time? (early, late, or "My-time?)

4) This is for anyone reading this, with kids: Did your kid(s) have a good time? I have only one 9-year-old who will not want to go the kids club. I'm totally cool with hanging with him, going to the arcades, down the slide, etc...whatever makes him happy...but it would be nice if we were able to chat with other families in a more intimate enviroment.

Thanks for any advice. I want so much to find a nice balance in a vacation for me and my son. We have so much fun cruising, but sometimes we both get overwhelmed with either too much kid stuff (for me) or too much boring, "relaxing" stuff for the little guy!!

Thank you, Bob. I had a feeling they did not. Darnit! :(

Do these rooms have access to the private suite deck?

I'm trying to justify the price of the GS vs. JS, but there's quite a jump. The free drinks, private lounge, private restaurant, and priority boarding don't interest me as much as the private suite deck.....but is the price hike worth it :confused:?

Wow, looks amazing! Thanks so much to everyone who replied!! :)

My workaholic, kinda introverted, and (somewhat) crowd-adverse DH is actually considering going on an upcoming cruise with me and our 9-year-old son! YAY!! I want him to LOVE it, so If he decides to go, we'd need to upgrade to a suite for the reason of more space for him....but I have a couple questions first:

1) I've googled, but unable to verify any info or pictures about this private deck for suites. Even on RCCL website I can't find info.? I've read it has cabanas? Does it have a small pool or hot tub? Music? I assume there's a bar?

2) Most important question, are kids allowed on this deck? If so, would they be a little bored? I'm not expecting a party, but looking for a nice, peaceful escape from the crowds with some fun, too.

I really think hubby would enjoy himself, despite the crowds if we could escape to a suite after say, climbing the rock wall or trying to surf. Any info from anyone who has been in a similar situation would be great!! Thank you!!!

Nachi Cocom.

Another vote for Nachi Cocom. So much fun, and so beautiful. Also worth noting, (I could be wrong on this) but I believe they only allow a set amount of people in to prevent over-crowding. This makes a huge difference in my opinion.

Hi everyone,

So Diet Coke is my go-to drink in the morning. I'm reading up on posts regarding drinking packages, and have a question about the Coke Freestyle machines.

How many are there on the Allure? Did you notice if there's always a long line to use it?

Also, if you order a coke from one of the bars, do they have fountain machines or will you get a can?

One more question: Appx how much would an average martini, made with Grey Goose instead of the cheap stuff, cost? I'm probably going to opt for the drink package, but wondering if I'll still need to pay an extra few bucks on the ship. I viewed some images of what I think was a MDR wine list. Looks like they offer some nice wines by the glass, but I will be paying a couple bucks more for them. can anyone confirm this? I'm just thrilled they offer more than one or two choices that are by the glass, even if they are over the limit.

The main one to reserve on oasis class ships is the comedy show. The other ones you can always do the standby line if you did not make reservations online. Or when you board you will be able to make reservations. But i do recommend if you book one online, make sure it is the comedy show as the venue is tiny. Thanks

 

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I just tried to reserve the comedy show but wasn't able to book for my son. Are all the comedy shows for adults only? This will be a bummer. We really enjoy the comedy shows.

NICE!!! I'm with you, I'd take the OBC, too! With shore excursions, drinks, pictures, etc.. I feel like it's almost too easy to rack up a $1000 bill. Not having to think about it much would be wonderful. Have fun!!

Thanks for your review. Love the pictures! I enjoy reading reviews, especially ones with kids. It's always helpful to read tips from parents. I took my son on his first cruise when he was 3, and he's now obsessed just like me! It's a lot of fun as they grow up because they start really enjoying all the shows. Our favorites are the (PG rated) comedians. Alex loves the trivia contests, too. The beach excursions are always a hit as well. We started snorkeling around age 6, although I've seen younger kids out there with snorkel gear.

I agree with you about the mini bars!! My son is 9, and STILL doesn't understand how I could be so mean and deny him those M&M's when they are right there in front of him.

Oh, and the stuffed animal shop: Get this: We recently took a Carnival cruise. They actually had the audacity to announce OVER THE PA that the Build-a-Bear workshop was starting in 10 minutes.....

Needless to say, an hour later, I'm about $50 poorer.

My husband (the disciplinarian of us) doesn't do well on cruises, so it's always just me and the little guy....and I'm the sucker, so yeah, it's tricky to get around things. :)

So happy your family had a great time!!

With 15 k in port ( which is a lot more ships than almost any day in the summer ) Mullet will be busy. Not packed but busy with beach goers and with catamaran trips docking in the water. It's generally considered the busy section of the island since it's beside Maho beach which is the "airplane" beach which is a hit with cruisers. I love this beach though. If you don't need facilities the far end is lovely.

Agreed: It's not the cruise passengers that would be a concern...just the other visitors this time of year. Still, I think an early arrival at Mullet would work out. I don't feel like Maho visitors would venture over to Mullet. I'd go for it!!

I totally agree with you, Simpson would be a bit too rough for a 10-year-old to kayak. I never felt like Mullet Bay was too crowded...but honestly, I was there during the summer which is low season. 4 ships is a lot, but my guess is Mullet wouldn't be a cruise passenger destination. I don't think it's listed on the ships as an excursion, and unless you are familiar with the island, I don't think a newbie would venture there, even though it's really not that far. Of course that's only my opinion.

My second choice would be Anse Marcel, and my third Grand Case. They are a hike from the port...but it's on a less traveled road. The beaches at both are amazing. Barely any waves. Still not great for snorkeling, but great for relaxing, paddle boarding, etc..

Even though my son is a string swimmer, I'm overly paranoid about being too far from my son in the water. However, I felt all these 3 beaches were very safe for him. I never worried. The waters are so calm. My little guy preferred Mullet because he loved playing in the slightly bigger waves, and he enjoyed feeding the fish.

If it were me, I would risk the increased possibility of crowds and go to Mullet. Go early. You'll be sure to get a great, front row spot on the beach and I believe you guys will have a great time!!

Check out Kim's story about kayaking to Pinel http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?p=51075115

Absolutely, a fair representation of how I would describe kayaking to Pinel!!!! LOVED this post!!

YES!! I'm referring to the summer of 2015!

Wow, so it's better now?? I'm so happy and relieved to hear that!! It was just SO BAD that I haven't checked up on it too much. My hubby recently mentioned he might like to go back this summer. I'm starting to research it now, but you know, back then we had a condo across from Dawn Beach and I felt like we had to drive to the other side of the island to escape the seaweed!

Still, we loved it. Most the beaches we preferred were on the other side anyway so it didn't bother us too much. It's such an amazing place!! Can't wait to go back, if I'm so lucky!! :)

I have a 9-year-old son, almost 10. We spent the summer in St. Martin so I might be able to offer suggestions for you.

If I were you, I would get off the ship and grab a cab to Mullet Bay. It's just a bit past Maho, so not too far from the port. I feel like it's one of the top beaches, especially for kids: Fun, gentle waves that are not over powering, but not too shallow and boring for adults. It also has a reasonably priced beach bar and grill, loungers and umbrellas for rent, it's very safe, and even though there's no great snorkeling, you can still bring your snorkel gear and see fish: just grab some sandwich bread from the grill and bring it out with you to the ocean. Drop it around you, and you will find yourself surrounded by friendly, mellow, yet similar looking fish. It's so much fun and your 10-year-old will have a blast!

If you want to stay closer to the port, go to Divi Bay resort. It's on Little Bay, the next beach over from Great Bay. I wasn't too impressed with it, but cruisers like the proximity to the cruise port.

Whatever you do, I would NOT recommend swimming in Great bay, where the cruise ship docks. The water is polluted, and (I don't feel like) it's safe for kids...or adults. The boardwalk, however, has wonderful restaurants and is a lot of fun to walk around!!

St. Martin is one of my favorite places in the Carribean. It's absolutely beautiful, safe, and a lot of fun if you know where to go!!

I'm surprised at the responses to this. I spent the summer in St. Martin and there was a MAJOR seaweed problem on the Atlantic side, especially at Cul De Sac. The ferry dock taking passengers to and from Pinel smelled (and looked) terrible. I wouldn't set foot in the water due to health concerns. Hopefully reading these posts means it's better??

Another concern would be the winds. I feel like I'm in somewhat decent shape, but to be honest, I wouldn't risk kayaking against the winds. If battling a head wind, I don't feel like inexperienced kayakers would enjoy the track to Pinel from the island. Sure, it's doable but wouldn't be fun or scenic. You're crossing the Atlantic with no pretty, narrow passages so not as scenic as one would imagine.

Pinel, however, was completely and totally amazing. NO SEAWEED ISSUES! You can easily do it on a shore excursion. Grab a cab from the port, and arrange with the driver a pickup time. In the unlikely event he doesn't show up for the return trip, just ask the ferry employees to call you a cab if there are no other cabs available... which I agree with previous posters...cabs are not readily available at that particular pier.

Oh wow, what a beautiful picture! Thank you so much for both replies. I'm now a little concerned about the temperature, or rather lack of airflow. I suppose even with an ocean view balcony, it's going to be hot in June.

I guess I'll just cross my fingers we are assigned a cabin perhaps closer to the aft, or on a higher floor for better airflow.