Travel R

I have a related question - for the excursions that are not included, does Viking include the cost on these pages of their website? If so, how soon before the sailing? Also - for the non-included tours, would anyone suggest using third party tours vs. taking the tours offered through Viking? [For context - we are looking at an itinerary that includes Athens. As per the current itinerary, the included tour does not include the Acropolis, which we would all want to visit. In my experience on mainstream cruises, I have usually found the third-party providers to be better than going through the ship.] Thank you

Thank you. What you suggested is the direction for how we are approaching our search; look for all available options regardless of how the lines are characterized, and see which ones we think we would like the best - then compare al that we have found. A premium or a borderline premium/luxury line may be a good fit; especially since our friends are not big cruisers, and have not sailed on a mainstream cruise in a number of years. For myself and my DW, I think we would be okay with whatever category we choose. Speaking to people I know about their own experiences I already have some pre-conceived biases towards and against certain lines even before I began my recent research, but I am going to try to void that from how I gather data. I will also confess that I have been looking at the boards for some of the other non-luxury lines, such as Viking and Azamara to get some idea of what people are saying about them these days. If we like luxury cruising (what's not to like), I am sure we will try it again, and most likely on a different line for the sake of comparison (although our next non-mainstream cruise will be a river cruise (unscheduled for 2026)). I have looked at a few of the premium and luxury lines and so far, for Med sailings most schedules are only posted through July 2024 (although I have seen Aug '24 schedules for Asia or longer cruises that sail beyond the summer months). But I have only begun to perform any research, so there are a few lines I have not even reviewed as of yet.

^That.

The age restrictions are most likely driven by the insurance policies of the third parties, not RCI or the other cruise lines. Can't say I agree with them. When I retire at 65 I don't want any stupid restrictions slowing me down. Although recently in Alaska we had the opposite restrictions, my 22 year old could not drive a jeep since the minimum age limit was 25. And even at 25+, we had to sign waivers. Lions, and tigers, and birds, oh my!

It's always a crap shoot with Alaska. Accessibility to the Arms/Glaciers changes week to week. Although we saw both, your sailing navigated a lot closer to Hubbard than we did (due to too many icebergs).

My mom had mobility issues over her last few years. Something to consider - you can borrow a wheelchair from RCI (they used to be complimentary, but not sure if they have them available or if you needed to reserve in advance). Another alternative, albeit at an extra expense, you can rent a scooter (I know my mom would have to reserve in advance). FYI - last month we were on the Serenade with a cabin fairly close to the Centrum and did not experience very much noise or any outward drunkenness; but different sailing and different cabins, so maybe different circumstances. PS: Loved the layout/setup of this ship and it's whole outward-looking/facing design.

That stinks, but you will have more time to enjoy Juneau!

Good for you.

When we visited Spain, we had to find restaurants with "American Hours" for dinner; although would go around for tapas and drinking later in the evening.

Yes, very nice to see you here as well!!!! Whereas river cruising was a whole new world to me, I am at least starting out with my research into luxury cruising on better footing. I know and have talked to many friends and family that have taken "luxury" cruising over the years, so I am familiar with some of the ups and (few) downs to luxury vs. mainstream and which luxury lines are their preferences. I am also familiar with the premium vs. luxury vs luxury - and the blurred distinction of the latter two classifications. [And a confession - I have been lurking on the luxury boards for a few years.] I do get it, a 1 star Michelin restaurant is very, very nice and you cannot go wrong eating at one, but a 2 or a 3-star Michelin are yet a notch or three above. But sometimes that dirty spoon in the next town that isn't even Zagats-rated has some of the best eats in the world. Although I am familiar with some of the benefits on some lines versus others, I need to do some more research on these and see what the benefits of sailing each currently. The two things I am looking for in a luxury cruise (vs. mainstream) is a notch-up on food and less crowds. A butler would get bored with me since the only thing I would probably ask for is to make sure I have ice in my room every evening - which a steward would do for any guest on the inside cabin of any ocean liner. My only "special" request for wait staff is to bring me two glasses of Diet Coke after we sit down to eat. I have tried to get my DW and friends up to speed on luxury cruises by sending them a few articles I found of use and a few videos (of course, a few from Craig B!). FYI - everyone likes the idea of a luxury cruise. We also have an idea of where we would like to cruise from - either Rome or Venice (which makes it a lot easier than not even having an idea of which river to sail). For me, my next step is to find different luxury cruise itineraries of 7-10 days that sail out of either of the above cities during the timeframe allotted at the end of August (yes, it's gonna be hot). In addition, the itinerary will be towards the east (although France and Spain are great, if I'm spending the extra $ on a luxury cruise, I would like to see places I have not been). [If out of Venice, we would be taking a high-speed train from Rome (hopefully there will be no strikes).] Personally, if Viking has the most desirable itinerary (I did see one that looks great), I would personally sail with them even though some would classify them as an "upper premium" and not even "luxury." [Am I allowed to mention "Viking" on this forum or will this post be deleted?] For me, it will be the itinerary that is the most important - but I am only one of four votes, although for myself and my buddy will defer to our DWs as to what we want to do. I will do research into all of the options available during our window of opportunity and weigh them against the other. [I have one friend that will argue till he is red in the face that I would consider anything other than SS (I've heard his stories, and it does sound fabulous). On the other hand, I know people that love Viking.] Going back to your original question "Underlying the whole question about luxury lines is which aspects define luxury for you?" I am looking for good food and not being crowded in every venue I walk into. However, that is a question that I will ask each of my travel-mates - which may allow us to narrow down some of the options once they become available (August 2024 is not being scheduled as of yet . . . but should be soon). As a mainstream cruiser, I am looking forward to trying out a luxury cruise.

We are looking to take our first luxury cruise, so thought this would be a great thread to read. I have read a lot of helpful information, and learning about the different lines (and what people like and dislike. [Yes, I know some is old, like any info on Crystal.] However, it is good to see that there are still some similarities between luxury and mainstream cruising, such as the discussions [arguments] over attire. It actually made me laugh.

We sailed Alaska last month on the Serenade (smaller ship). I cannot comment on the ships, but I would strongly suggest the itinerary that includes Sitka on the Quantum vs Inside Passage. [If you go to my signature, there is a link to the Index for this cruise - in the index, click on the link for Sitka to see my review of that port.]

I emailed RCI about two months before my cruise. After a week of no response, I called them - and although part of the answer was incorrect, I did get a hold of them. I had then emailed them again on a minor issue the following week. It is a month after I have arrived back from the cruise, but still have not received an answer. Calling is your best option.

Thank you so very, very much for all of your suggestions and advice. Yes, it has been fun. Unfortunately, my time on the River Cruise boards is soon arriving at its final hour. I am waiting for our friends to look through the materials I sent them on luxury cruising and to give us the okay before I begin making any waves on those boards. In the mean time, I am still semi-active on the thread for my recent ocean-cruise review answering any questions that come my way. Fortunately, it is not a true goodbye, since we do plan on a river cruise within the next few years - and celebrating our 30th Anniversary in 2026 by sailing down a European river seems like the perfect way to celebrate! Thanks again! [PS: For those not familiar with NYC traffic, here's a recent article on how it stacks up vs. other cities in the US and internationally. . . . https://www.fox13news.com/news/us-cities-with-the-worst-traffic-congestion]

@Just Jo - Thank you. Glad my review was of assistance. Please let me know if you have any questions. I've learned so much from other people's reviews on Cruise Critic over the years that I am happy to pay it forward. Out of the corner of my eye I saw "Royal Majesty" in your signature and looking further, it was in 1996 - the same year we sailed her. I consider our sailing on the Royal Majesty my first "real" cruise. Loved it and is where I fell in love with cruising. As far as cruise experiences are concerned, it is my standard of comparison for all subsequent cruises.

At the beginning of COVID I did a big clean-out of my basement. I had dozens of highway maps from many of the states and countries we have driven though (and a few city street maps). I sold them all as part of a large lot on eBay. I used to love using maps, but the Internet has negated their usefulness (although, shhhhhh . . . I still keep a small hard copy of a US (Highway) Atlas in my car). Talking about traffic and California - I've been stuck in traffic on the LA Freeway, that's a 14 lane parking lot during rush hour (7 lanes each way).

I hear y'all, but this is one area where I digress. I was born n' raised in New York City, where traffic is just a part of life (it has sometimes taken 20-30 minutes to drive 3 miles - seriously). So, a little traffic is of no concern. Growing up I also used to work on cars and even do a little street racing; the driver's seat of an automobile is one of my happy places. When we visited Alaska recently, it was the 45th of 50 States I had visited. I had driven within all the other states, and drove a jeep off-road to ensure that I was able to drive in all 45. I have driven through a few Provinces in Canada, and in various countries throughout the world (Iceland being the most memorable because of its topography - it was like driving on the surface of the moon). The only countries I will not drive in are England and the former colonies that drive on the left side of the world. My instincts and reactions as a driver are too right-side dominated, that I fear that I would make a good move in the US that would cause an accident in England. I love to drive. In fact, within the next two months I am going to drive from New Jersey to Niagara Falls (NY), Memphis (TN) and up to various states in New England (twice). I know this is a cruise board, but many of our vacations are land-based within the US and abroad. There are a few things I love about driving while on vacation, especially in states and countries that we have never or rarely visit. We enjoy the freedom of deviation - changing of schedule or destination based on something as small as seeing an interesting sign to a museum or oddly named road. We love the ability to visit all those little places that a bus or train will pass by and talking to people that you may meet along the way - shopkeepers, locals, and fellow travelers. Allegorically, the road is my river - and the car my river cruise ship. I can sail along the highways in my auto stopping at all the smaller sites that the big ships cannot port and immerse myself in the local culture and history. [Just as there are low/high water levels, jams, locks, and other obstacles to slow down the ship on the river, there is also going to be traffic to contend with.] As always, I will do my research about the traffic regulations for each country I visit. I'll also find out if they have any driving restrictions within the city we intent to possibly visit. [I know that there are ZTL zones coming to Paris; I'll have to find out what other cities have them; FYI - for those travelling to NYC, there will be something similar (congestion pricing) that may be implemented in 2023.] Various countries also have low emission regulations (so you have to ensure that you rent an auto that is okay to travel through your desired countries); I am sure the Netherland probably has this without even looking. Long story short - I know that it is not for everyone, but driving would be one of the highlights of my trip.

PS: Now I can let you know what course I would have taken if the vacation were left up to me . . . . Fly into Paris Spend a 1-2 days exploring Paris Rent Car Drive to and spend day in Versailles DIY (not that 4 hour bus tour where you spend half the time on the bus) - Drive to Disney Paris Spend Day in Disney Paris Drive to Amsterdam w/ lunch and a little exploration of Brussels Spend 1-2 days exploring Amsterdam Rhine River Cruise 1-2 Days in Basel and the surrounding area Fly home No, I still have not figured out which cruise line.

UPDATE I was offline this weekend to enjoy the beautiful weather here in the Northeast US. But wanted to mention the following before I begin work this morning . . . . We met with our travelling companions. They had finally read the articles and watched the videos on river cruising. As I had mentioned in an earlier thread, I wanted to make sure that they knew what they were getting into before we signed up and tasked the TAs with unneeded research. After some some discussion, we are sadly not going to be sailing down a river in 2024. After watching the videos on the differences between ocean and river cruises, they believe that river cruising would be too regimented for them (maybe a little too quiet), does not have the food options they like on an ocean cruise, and is not just for them. In addition, with all the issues with airlines, by sailing out of Rome we have one less flight to worry about, and they have also read about the problems with low-rivers, and feel that it will be one less thing to stress about. Maybe river cruising just is not for them - which is okay. We are still vacationing with them, and will still begin a few days in Rome, but the plan is to now look at Luxury Cruises out of Rome. Of course, I have already performed some research and send them articles and videos. HOWEVER . . . . . This was not all for naught. River cruising has been pushed up on my list of travel destinations, and has peaked the interest of my DW, who would like to river cruise as well. We are still going to do the family ocean cruise in 2023, then the ever-changing anniversary Rome+ vacation in 2024. So, 2025 (which seems so far away) may be ripe for our first River Cruise. The whole idea of river cruising sounds extremely appealing to me - the slow pace, the history and art, the amazing fellow travelers - so it will happen. I really would like to thank everyone that took their time to answer my questions and provide so much great information, insight, and share some of their own stories. It has all been very much appreciated. Although I know none of you are salespersons for these cruise lines, but you have me sold on going on a river cruise!! I am going to still try to finish up my research documentation over the next few weeks - although some of it will be out of date in 2-3 years, much of it will not have changed. It will also be helpful for newbies like me looking for a river cruise in 2022-23. You are a great group of people, and wanted to say thank you for all your help!!! [No, I am not disappearing, I will be back to respond to some of the comments posted over the weakened, and will still be on CC researching Luxury Cruises (and subsequently whatever this vacation will morph into next). Travel R

Thank you. And thank you for your input! My DDs 17 and 22 loved Alaska. But sometimes it is also good to get away with your significant other sans the "kids." Denali would be the reason for us to do a southbound. Although the planner in my head has a whole sub-trip planned DIY, including flying into Fairbanks, driving to some of the smaller enclaves near Gates of Artic further north. At Denali, I would also probably take a bus so I can see the full park. If in Rome, when taking whatever ship south, I would prefer to visit GNP. But we shall see, a lot of other things on our plate that is taking precedent. Whoa - a knife? The Pride Parade must have been fun. The Pride Parade is NYC is one big, long party, with everyone just letting themselves be themselves. Luckily, handicap accessibility is getting better as time moves on.

Thank you very much for the clarification. As Americans, when we saw this, the first thing we had thought was the very recent US Supreme Court ruling, although yes, we were in Canada, we had thought that there was some outrage by our northern neighbors. Either ethnocentricity or nativity on our part (or both). Just read about this . . . . very, very sad. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.

Yes, we may be of the same mind, especially after reading the following: “I have CDO. It’s like OCD except the letters are in alphabetical order…LIKE THEY SHOULD BE!” I stayed offline this past weekend, so only took a quick look at your review, but like your reading style (and trying to write a review that is off-kilter from the rest is not an easy task, but half the fun). I will take a good read-through - although an Alaskan review, we will eventually do a southbound w/ Denali pre-cruise, so it will be worth my while.

One of the data points I am trying to capture are how each of the lines (American-Marketed) offer their excursion, how they are reviewed, and what tours are included (how many tours are included in base fare, what is not, does it matter on the cabin, and avg. price of additional non-complimentary tours). I have just begun the research (I'll get deeper into it this weekend when I have the time), but this gathering this specific information is not as straightforward as it should be.

Very cool! Love living museums.

For those that only saw the movie, it was loosely based on the book, and only scratches the surface of the whole story. I know this is not a book club, but I would strongly recommend the book (not a very long book and it was a pretty quick read) .