CruiseMark

Thank you for posting this.

Not anymore. They changed it to $30 pp/pd a couple of months ago. This from the FAQ on the HAL website:

I know that HAL puts a hold on your credit card for $30/day. I normally do 7 day cruises, so it’s no big deal. But next year I’m taking a longer cruise and that $30/day really adds up. I’ve heard that you can have that amount either reduced or taken off if you go to Guest Services. Is that true? Has anyone done that? (Please refrain from snarky comments about how I should have $25,000 in credit, just in case. Not all of us are so fortunate and I have insurance for emergencies)

Believe it or not, Holland America’s app is one of the best out there. Princess’ app was so bad they’re about to completely replace it, Royal Caribbean constantly crashes, etc. HAL’s website on the other hand…ugh. As a website manager for Microsoft for nearly 20 years, it pains me every time I get a “Bad Gateway” message.

It’s so you can align that deck with the ones above or below it when comparing decks. A visual tool.

I just rebooked to get the Black Friday deal. Slightly lower cruise fare ($100 less), but got more OBC ($225) plus the included gratuities, which for my 13 night cruise saved me more than $200. So a total net positive of more than $500. While not massive, it was definitely worth it to me.

Holland America announced what their Black Friday sale will be. Starting Nov 17th, 30% off select cruises plus free gratuities. More info here: https://www.cruisehive.com/holland-america-line-offers-major-black-friday-savings/115084 I don’t know any details beyond what’s in the article.

@CPT Trips I don’t feel comfortable having my email permanently posted here, unfortunately. Oh well. I tried.

@CPT Trips I tried to message you to get your referral code, but it says “Feature disabled”. Not sure why. If you could try messaging me with it, I’d appreciate it. Thanks!

Thank you so much, @JerseyGem That’s exactly what I wanted to know. Extremely helpful, thanks.

I’m considering a Christmas Market cruise with Grand Circle cruise line (River Harmony). It’s hard to find recent reviews or feedback. If you have ACTUAL RECENT EXPERIENCE WITH THEM, say within the last two years, I’d love to hear it. Especially around dinner food. Please don’t post opinions on them if you’ve never sailed with them. YES, I know they’re a budget line and their ships aren’t anywhere near the luxury of Avalon, Tauck or Uniworld, but I like that they have some unique experiences for Christmas. Thanks in advance.

So my question is…are you enjoying your cruise? Cuz it kinda seems like you aren’t, based on all the complaints.

The little “racing theme” bar is part of the smoking section. The only indoor bar where smoking is allowed.

I was looking at that winter 2024 version as well. I just wish their pricing was more competitive with Havila, especially for solos. I realize they have solo specials, but usually only for last minute trips and I’m a planner 😊

Thank you, @Flyinby. Very helpful.

Thanks, Stan. BKB is the Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen round trip Norwegian Coastal Express. I wish I could afford a 645Z!

Thanks, @oakridger, but that forum is pretty generic. I’ve been a photographer for 50+ years and know how to use my camera. I’m looking for lens recommendations for this cruise specifically.

Trying to decide on what photo gear to bring on a BKB voyage. I have a Canon 6D kit. I’ll obviously bring a wide prime for northern lights, a standard zoom for walk around. But what I’m unsure about is a telephoto zoom. I’m trying to envision what I’d be using it for. I have a 70-200 and could pick up a 70-300 pretty cheaply, but don’t know if I’d need longer than that. Thoughts?

Thank you so much, @Flyinby for such a detailed report. It’s tremendously helpful!

Thank you so much for your perspective, @hallasm

For those of you who have cruised on Hurtigruten or Havila to Norway, what made you choose that type of cruise vs a “normal” cruise line such as P&O or Fred Olsen? There seem to be pluses and minuses for each, and I’m wondering what swayed you? Thanks.

Hello, I’m considering a Norway Northern Lights cruise in December. Both Fred Olsen Borealis and P&O Aurora get good reviews and the itineraries are somewhat similar. I realize that this is a Fred Olsen forum and may lead to some biased responses, but does anyone have thoughts on the two ships? Any differences I should be aware of between either the ships or the cruise lines? I’ve cruised extensively but never with either of these two lines. Thanks. Mark

Is this available only if you book direct with P&O or will it be available to those who use a TA as well

Thank you, I have. It’s anywhere from a £500 to £800 difference, depending on cabin type. I’ll be flying in, so parking isn’t a concern.

Hi, Does anyone have experience booking an “Outside Guarantee” cabin on the Aurora? Did you actually end up with an Outside cabin or were you upgraded? Or were you put in a bad cabin? I’ve cruised extensively on other lines, but never with a guarantee room (due to Early Saver). The Select fare was significantly more expensive, so I’m trying to assess the risk of booking the lower fare.