I need a stratagy

[Sunset Rider]

Let me begin by saying two major milestones in my life have led me here. First I've recently reconnected with my childhood sweetheart were both 40 now. Second through some great fortune I find myself semi retired and able to enjoy middle age.

 

I've been a mass market cruiser for years normally opting for suites. Financially I can afford most of what are considered the "Luxury Lines". So Kris and I came up with a plan. We want to take 3 cruises next year on 3 different "Luxury Lines" one in each Spring, Summer, and Fall. Basically to discover our best match for a cruise line.

 

I've read that each line kind of has it's own vibe. Keeping that in mind I would love it if the vast experience on this board could point me in a direction for these 3 cruises. Below is our wish list.

 

1. Cabin- Luxury and perfection, it doesn't have to be massive there will only be 2 of us but it needs to be exceptional in every other aspect.

 

2. Food- This is simple "a 5 star dining experience"

 

3. Other on board entertainment- An upscale casino( for me), great entertainment (comedians,Broadway style shows, lectures).Possibly a place to dance the night away.

 

4. Itinerary- Interesting places and culture, not super picky here. I doubt seriously any of the "Luxury Lines" would have a bad port of call.

 

5. Crowd- We are a young 40 (not party animals mind you) I'm a martial artist and an avid hiker. Shes a writer and studying for her private pilots license. So an energetic crowd would be a positive.

 

6. Dress Code- I'm more of a cloths horse than she is. A nightly competition to see who brings more style to the table might be a fun side activity.

 

7. Returning passenger perks- What lines have the best perks for repeat cruiser

 

Keeping all that in mind fire away if there are questions I/we can answer we will do our best. Please don't leave your bias out of this. What makes one cruise line special to you is precisely what were looking for.

 

 

Kris and I thank you in advance.

[Mike2131]

Let me begin by saying two major milestones in my life have led me here. First I've recently reconnected with my childhood sweetheart were both 40 now. Second through some great fortune I find myself semi retired and able to enjoy middle age.

 

I've been a mass market cruiser for years normally opting for suites. Financially I can afford most of what are considered the "Luxury Lines". So Kris and I came up with a plan. We want to take 3 cruises next year on 3 different "Luxury Lines" one in each Spring, Summer, and Fall. Basically to discover our best match for a cruise line.

 

I've read that each line kind of has it's own vibe. Keeping that in mind I would love it if the vast experience on this board could point me in a direction for these 3 cruises. Below is our wish list.

 

1. Cabin- Luxury and perfection, it doesn't have to be massive there will only be 2 of us but it needs to be exceptional in every other aspect.

 

2. Food- This is simple "a 5 star dining experience"

 

3. Other on board entertainment- An upscale casino( for me), great entertainment (comedians,Broadway style shows, lectures).Possibly a place to dance the night away.

 

4. Itinerary- Interesting places and culture, not super picky here. I doubt seriously any of the "Luxury Lines" would have a bad port of call.

 

5. Crowd- We are a young 40 (not party animals mind you) I'm a martial artist and an avid hiker. Shes a writer and studying for her private pilots license. So an energetic crowd would be a positive.

 

6. Dress Code- I'm more of a cloths horse than she is. A nightly competition to see who brings more style to the table might be a fun side activity.

 

7. Returning passenger perks- What lines have the best perks for repeat cruiser

 

Keeping all that in mind fire away if there are questions I/we can answer we will do our best. Please don't leave your bias out of this. What makes one cruise line special to you is precisely what were looking for.

 

 

Kris and I thank you in advance.

Like you, we have cruised on the mainstream lines and gotten somewhat bored. We love the outdoors and wildlife and decided to try an expedition cruise. We were on the Silverea Prince Albert II for a 7-night Arctic cruise in June and absolutely loved it. In fact, it has entirely changed the way we look at cruising. We have a Galapagos cruise coming up in May and are starting to plan an Antarctic cruise on the Hanseatic for 2012. There are some luxurious expedition ship out there (including the PA II) that might merit consideration.

 

As to most of your questions, others will have to help you. I just thought this might be one other type of cruise to consider.

[Travelcat2]

Let me begin by saying two major milestones in my life have led me here. First I've recently reconnected with my childhood sweetheart were both 40 now. Second through some great fortune I find myself semi retired and able to enjoy middle age.

Think it's great that the two of you have reconnected. Also, how wonderful to be semi retired at such a young age:)

 

I've been a mass market cruiser for years normally opting for suites. Financially I can afford most of what are considered the "Luxury Lines". So Kris and I came up with a plan. We want to take 3 cruises next year on 3 different "Luxury Lines" one in each Spring, Summer, and Fall. Basically to discover our best match for a cruise line.

Hmmm, you definitely present CruiseCritic members with some challenges. First, it is important to say that Summer cruises on any cruise line will have quite a few children. While few passengers on luxury lines enjoy having children on board, I would have to say that Crystal and Regent are the most child-friendly (only during the summer and school breaks). If I were to pick three seasons, it would be Spring, Fall and Winter. While we have only cruised on Regent (with Silversea scheduled for next month), we have done months of research on the other luxury lines. My views are based on our research.

 

I've read that each line kind of has it's own vibe. Keeping that in mind I would love it if the vast experience on this board could point me in a direction for these 3 cruises. Below is our wish list.

1. Cabin- Luxury and perfection, it doesn't have to be massive there will only be 2 of us but it needs to be exceptional in every other aspect.

Regent "regular" suites, Silversea balcony suites on the Silver Spirit and Seabourn balcony suites on the Odyssey and Sojourn are about equal in size and in ammenities. Regent has two ships (Mariner and Voyager) with all balconies). Silversea has butlers for all suites while Regent has butlers for Penthouse and above suites. On Crystal, you need to upgrade a bit as their regular suites are quite small.

2. Food- This is simple "a 5 star dining experience"

Food is so subjective. You can have a 5 star dining experience on any of the luxury cruise lines. . . . . however, you will not find perfection anywhere.

 

3. Other on board entertainment- An upscale casino( for me), great entertainment (comedians,Broadway style shows, lectures).Possibly a place to dance the night away.

Keep in mind that luxury ships are small. The largest are the Crystal ships (approx. 1,000 passengers). Regent ships are 490 - 700 passengers. . . . Seabourn 209 - 450 passengers and Silversea 300 - 540 passengers). Review indicate that Crystal has the best entertainment and lectures and I would guess the best casino.

 

4. Itinerary- Interesting places and culture, not super picky here. I doubt seriously any of the "Luxury Lines" would have a bad port of call.

You are correct. . . . you need to check out itineraries on line. One of our favorite destinations is the Western Mediterranean (Istanbul to Athens for example). The weather is horrendous during the summer. . . . best time to go is October.

 

5. Crowd- We are a young 40 (not party animals mind you) I'm a martial artist and an avid hiker. Shes a writer and studying for her private pilots license. So an energetic crowd would be a positive.

You are rather young for a retiree. On long itineraries and itineraries when school is in session, the average age on luxury cruise lines skews higher. Truly do not know which cruise line has an energetic crowd. There are certainly wonderful, energetic excursions available from the cruise line or privately at each port.

 

6. Dress Code- I'm more of a cloths horse than she is. A nightly competition to see who brings more style to the table might be a fun side activity.

The most formal cruise line is Silversea while Regent has Elegant Casual every night on itinearies under 15 nights.

 

7. Returning passenger perks- What lines have the best perks for repeat cruiser

Without a doubt Regent has the best perks. After 21 nights, you receive free unlimited internet and 1 hour of free phone use.

 

Keeping all that in mind fire away if there are questions I/we can answer we will do our best. Please don't leave your bias out of this. What makes one cruise line special to you is precisely what were looking for.

 

 

Kris and I thank you in advance.

 

Another cruise line you may want to try is the Paul Gauguin. Listed as luxury, it is as close to luxury as you can get. . . . just a little more laid back because they sail in Tahiti. It is all -inclusive -- with around 300 passengers. The age is a bit lower -- best time of the year to cruise is Spring, Summer, Fall.

All-inclusivity is also a factor. It is not so much whether or not a person can afford it. . . . instead, it is so nice to not sign for anything -- it's just included.

Seabourn is all-inclusive -- regular and alcoholic drinks, tips, etc.

Silversea is also all-inclusive. In addition to the above, they include coach airfare on many itineraries. They do charge for one dining venue ($30-$200) on most of their ships. On their newest ship, they charge for two dining venues.

Regent is the most inclusive -- they include drinks, tips, airfare, all dining venues and many excursions. Business Class air is included on European itineraries if you book a Penthouse or above suite.

Crystal is not all-inclusive, but, they do give varying amounts of on board credits to cover many items. You do have to sign for drinks. Many times your travel agent (TA) will cover your tips. Soft drinks and water are included. Crystal is also the only cruise line with set seating in their main restaurant. Effective 2011, they will have open seating in the main restaurant, however, as I understand it, reservations are required in order to have open seating.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a TA that specializes in luxury cruises. They will not only be able to answer your questions, many of them have cash back benefits and other special perks. The TA must have experience booking with these specific cruise lines.

You may want to take a couple of short cruises to see which works the best.

Once you have a better idea of which cruises you are interested in, you may want to go to the specific board for that cruise line. There are lots of us out here that will be happy to give you our perspective.

[Keith1010]

Let me begin by saying two major milestones in my life have led me here. First I've recently reconnected with my childhood sweetheart were both 40 now. Second through some great fortune I find myself semi retired and able to enjoy middle age.

 

I've been a mass market cruiser for years normally opting for suites. Financially I can afford most of what are considered the "Luxury Lines". So Kris and I came up with a plan. We want to take 3 cruises next year on 3 different "Luxury Lines" one in each Spring, Summer, and Fall. Basically to discover our best match for a cruise line.

 

I've read that each line kind of has it's own vibe. Keeping that in mind I would love it if the vast experience on this board could point me in a direction for these 3 cruises. Below is our wish list.

 

1. Cabin- Luxury and perfection, it doesn't have to be massive there will only be 2 of us but it needs to be exceptional in every other aspect.

 

2. Food- This is simple "a 5 star dining experience"

 

3. Other on board entertainment- An upscale casino( for me), great entertainment (comedians,Broadway style shows, lectures).Possibly a place to dance the night away.

 

4. Itinerary- Interesting places and culture, not super picky here. I doubt seriously any of the "Luxury Lines" would have a bad port of call.

 

5. Crowd- We are a young 40 (not party animals mind you) I'm a martial artist and an avid hiker. Shes a writer and studying for her private pilots license. So an energetic crowd would be a positive.

 

6. Dress Code- I'm more of a cloths horse than she is. A nightly competition to see who brings more style to the table might be a fun side activity.

 

7. Returning passenger perks- What lines have the best perks for repeat cruiser

 

Keeping all that in mind fire away if there are questions I/we can answer we will do our best. Please don't leave your bias out of this. What makes one cruise line special to you is precisely what were looking for.

 

 

Kris and I thank you in advance.

 

I would recommend that you do seek out a travel specialist that specializes in luxury cruise lines and one that has personally sailed on all or most of these lines.

 

I would also read about these cruise lines. I highly recommend that you pick up (you can order it on Amazon.Com) the book titled Compete Guied to Cruising and Cruise Ships written by Douglas Ward and published by Berlitz. It give you a nice writeup on almost every cruise ship out there and touches on many of the items you mentioned.

 

I would also go to each cruise lines web site to look closely at the layouts of each ship, to read about what they highlight in terms of the overall experience and to get a sense of various areas including accommodations, dress and cuisine.

 

You will need to prioritize each item because while I can think of a few cruise ships that might provide you with the adventure the trade off might be that the attire in the evenings is casual.

 

There is also no one line that is best even for each individual category and what is number one depends on your preference.

 

For example, TravelCat2 mentioned that Regent has the best repeat cruiser program because they give you free internet after 21 days. Well, the value is in the eyes of the beholder. Other luxury cruise lines gives you other perks that one might consider to be of more value. For example, some of the lines give a past cruiser and an on board discount for all cruises and some don't do this for all. Others give a complimentary cruse after a certain number of days while another one doesn't. One gives an upgrade to a suite after certain thresholds are hit. The bottom line is the devil is in the details and ones own preference. There are a lot of number ones out there.

 

If you want to sail with people closer to your age then summer cruises on a luxury cruise line is something to consider and the length of the cruise is something to consider as well as the ones much longer in length typically have an overall average age that his higher than the shorter ones.

 

I could recommend cruise lines and rank ones in each category but I no longer thing that adds value because in the end what I rank first or second will be different than the ranking someone else provides. After all it comes down to personal choice.

 

For example, which car is more luxurious; Mercedes, Lexus or BMW. First off it not only depends on your own personal tastes but even within each line there are different vehicles to choose from. Well on a cruise line many times there are differences between ships with factors such as their respective sizes playing a role.

 

So, my advice to you is to pick up the book, go to the web sites and even get a few brochures, speak with one or two luxury cruise line specialists, narrow down your list and go to the respective cruise lines boards and even come back to this board with some questions that are not focused on ranking who is number 1 but focused on does this cruise line offer this and if so what does it encompass and so forth.

 

Remember, what one person says is number one another person may have an entirely different view. I know I do.

 

And many times several lines are quite good in a particular category but again it varies by our own individual preferences.

 

Congratulations on being able to semi-retire. I was fortunate to be able to retire at a relatively young age (not as young as 40 but still in my forties) and have found many other outlets in life to stay quite busy.

 

Keith

[Sunset Rider]

As I expected a wealth of information, Kris and I thank you. The book Keith recommended will be in my library as soon as the local Barnes and Noble opens for business ( assuming they have it on the shelf) otherwise I'll order it.

 

As far as hiring a TA, Any tips on finding and hiring a "Brick and Mortar" TA. Is there any organization or regulating body that will help me narrow the search? Frankly someone that specializes in the big box type of cruising isn't who we're looking for.

 

There's truly a great deal of information in the response to our posts and we appreciate it.

 

Kris has mentioned Tahiti. So we're considering the 7 night Tahiti & Society Islands Cruise on the m/s Paul Gauguin. Could anyone recommend a time of year? My research shows 2 things July is cooler and drier and there is apparently a month long festival ( we do plan on extending our trip on either side of the cruise by a few days) any thoughts?

 

As a side note I've printed this thread out and delivered it with breakfast to my love. I love to watch her get excited.

 

I think 2011 will be a very good year and again the opinions of the people on this board are invaluable to Kris and me.

[Travelcat2]

As I expected a wealth of information, Kris and I thank you. The book Keith recommended will be in my library as soon as the local Barnes and Noble opens for business ( assuming they have it on the shelf) otherwise I'll order it.

 

As far as hiring a TA, Any tips on finding and hiring a "Brick and Mortar" TA. Is there any organization or regulating body that will help me narrow the search? Frankly someone that specializes in the big box type of cruising isn't who we're looking for.

 

There's truly a great deal of information in the response to our posts and we appreciate it.

 

Kris has mentioned Tahiti. So we're considering the 7 night Tahiti & Society Islands Cruise on the m/s Paul Gauguin. Could anyone recommend a time of year? My research shows 2 things July is cooler and drier and there is apparently a month long festival ( we do plan on extending our trip on either side of the cruise by a few days) any thoughts?

 

As a side note I've printed this thread out and delivered it with breakfast to my love. I love to watch her get excited.

 

I think 2011 will be a very good year and again the opinions of the people on this board are invaluable to Kris and me.

 

Brick & mortar TA's are not necessarily easy to find. We have had excellent experiernces with two TA's via the internet. Although we cannot name our TA's, I can say that there are several consortiums that specialize in luxury travel. I found them by doing searches for luxury travel/cruise, etc. Virtuoso, for instance is one (we can name consortiums:-). You may want to check out their website.

 

Do recommend Tahiti in "our" spring and summer months. We've been there five times, so you could say that it is one of our favorite places.

 

I have to agree that each of us has our own view of cruising. Admittedly, I prefer Regent's laid back vibe while Keith tends to do a lot of cruising on Crystal. In terms of passenger appreciation programs, Regent's just kicks in much faster than others. On Silversea, for instance, you must sail 200 days in order to get a "free" 7 night cruise. I believe that all of the major luxury lines are excellent -- just different from each other. I have a friend (former Crystal loyalist) currently on Silversea. She loves it -- but, really dislikes the formality.

 

In any event, the PG (Paul Gauguin) is where many of us began our luxury cruise experience. You should enjoy it very much.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

I haven't read all the responses completely, but did pick up on a couple of things. I'll just give you my thoughts:

 

- yes, do include the Paul Gaugin (pgcruises.com). These are dreamy trips, all of them, and the ship is wonderfully intimate. Go for a larger cabin if money is no object (the deck 8 forward suites are very nice). Make sure to do a pre-cruise too, preferably on a remote island!

 

- I agree that Regent has great returning pax perks. Free internet now kicks in at the *beginning* of the cruise when you will hit your 21st night. We just made Gold and now have free newspapers, more free pressing, and several hours of free phone calls.

 

- dress code on Regent is quite relaxed now, but plenty of people still dress up.

 

- All the cabins on the Regent ships are wonderfully spacious, but in your situation, go for at least a Penthouse.

 

Lucky dogs, have a great time doing your research!

[Keith1010]

Brick & mortar TA's are not necessarily easy to find. We have had excellent experiernces with two TA's via the internet. Although we cannot name our TA's, I can say that there are several consortiums that specialize in luxury travel. I found them by doing searches for luxury travel/cruise, etc. Virtuoso, for instance is one (we can name consortiums:-). You may want to check out their website.

 

Do recommend Tahiti in "our" spring and summer months. We've been there five times, so you could say that it is one of our favorite places.

 

I have to agree that each of us has our own view of cruising. Admittedly, I prefer Regent's laid back vibe while Keith tends to do a lot of cruising on Crystal. In terms of passenger appreciation programs, Regent's just kicks in much faster than others. On Silversea, for instance, you must sail 200 days in order to get a "free" 7 night cruise. I believe that all of the major luxury lines are excellent -- just different from each other. I have a friend (former Crystal loyalist) currently on Silversea. She loves it -- but, really dislikes the formality.

 

In any event, the PG (Paul Gauguin) is where many of us began our luxury cruise experience. You should enjoy it very much.

 

Actually, all of the programs kick in immediately.

 

Each of them provides different perks at different levels. So like anyting else the devil is in the details.

 

I continue not to push anyone line when people ask for input and have been very consistent about this on this board.

 

It doesn't matter which line I prefer because in the end the most improtant factor is what works best for the person.

 

And I also believe that for some more than one line works well.

 

Keith

[Travelcat2]

Actually, all of the programs kick in immediately.

 

Each of them provides different perks at different levels. So like anyting else the devil is in the details.

 

I continue not to push anyone line when people ask for input and have been very consistent about this on this board.

 

It doesn't matter which line I prefer because in the end the most improtant factor is what works best for the person.

 

And I also believe that for some more than one line works well.

 

Keith

 

Keith, I know they all kick in immediately. . . . but, how many days are necessary to receive any perk on Crystal or Seabourn? Regent and Silversea have the on-board booking discount -- not sure about Crystal or Seabourn. My point simply was that most cruisers receive benefits on their second Regent cruise (unless they have taken two 7 night cruises).

 

I certainly would never push anyone to a certain line. However, I consistantly point out the fact that Crystal is not, by definition, all-inclusive. This may not be important to some -- but may be to others.

[Keith1010]

Keith, I know they all kick in immediately. . . . but, how many days are necessary to receive any perk on Crystal or Seabourn? Regent and Silversea have the on-board booking discount -- not sure about Crystal or Seabourn. My point simply was that most cruisers receive benefits on their second Regent cruise (unless they have taken two 7 night cruises).

 

I certainly would never push anyone to a certain line. However, I consistantly point out the fact that Crystal is not, by definition, all-inclusive. This may not be important to some -- but may be to others.

 

The reality is that at the end of your first cruise your first perk kicks in and that is the on board booking discount and the past cruiser discount. This is applied to all Crystal and Seabourn Cruises. It varies on some of the other luxury lines. The reality is this perk is worth a vast amout of money; much more than free internet minutes. From there it varies by cruise line. Some provide a free cruise at a certain threshold but others provide a variety of perks as cetain milestones are achieved.

 

Keith

[wripro]

And it all depends on which perks are more important to you. Personally, I'd rather have a free seven day cruise on Seabourn after 140 days than free internet.

[Keith1010]

Henry, I agree.

 

Each cruise line does this all differently.

 

One thing that we need to remember, and I do the same thing, none of this is free. Rather, it is something you have earned based on what you have spent with the cruise line.

 

Keith

[Sunset Rider]

Good afternoon everyone, Kris and I have been watching our post. Again thank you all for the information. I'm sure it will make this process much easier.

 

Just to keep you up to speed. We are going to take the Paul Gauguin 7 day Tahiti & Society Island Cruise In July 11'. After considering our options for our stateroom were thinking the Veranda Stateroom fits our needs.

 

I think were going to do Moorea pre cruise, and Taha' a post cruise.

 

I do have a few questions.

1. Should we book our own flight? They include LA - Papeete Tahiti or give you a credit and you can book your own.

2. Is there any Must See/Must Do things we need to be aware of.

3. For those that have been on this ship Is our room category selection a good one or are there things to consider which might not be obvious for those who haven't been there before.

 

Keith I did have to order that book we should have it by the weekend.

[Travelcat2]

Good afternoon everyone, Kris and I have been watching our post. Again thank you all for the information. I'm sure it will make this process much easier.

 

Just to keep you up to speed. We are going to take the Paul Gauguin 7 day Tahiti & Society Island Cruise In July 11'. After considering our options for our stateroom were thinking the Veranda Stateroom fits our needs.

 

I think were going to do Moorea pre cruise, and Taha' a post cruise.

 

I do have a few questions.

1. Should we book our own flight? They include LA - Papeete Tahiti or give you a credit and you can book your own.

2. Is there any Must See/Must Do things we need to be aware of.

3. For those that have been on this ship Is our room category selection a good one or are there things to consider which might not be obvious for those who haven't been there before.

 

Keith I did have to order that book we should have it by the weekend.

 

Congratulations on making the booking. IMO, the suite you booked should be great. However, I have not been on the ship since 2004. So, really think that you should get some advice from PG experts on their board. Here is a link http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=627 Hope you'll do a review after the cruise so we can read about it.

 

In terms of the other luxury lines you are considering, I think you will get better information by posting questions on the board for that line. I feel that you get prejudice opinions on this board (including my own). This is just my opinion. If you decide to stop by the Regent board, I'll be happy to answer any Regent specific questions (as will many others over there):)

[wripro]

Good choice. I'm sure you'll have a great time.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

 

I think were going to do Moorea pre cruise, and Taha' a post cruise.

 

I do have a few questions.

1. Should we book our own flight? They include LA - Papeete Tahiti or give you a credit and you can book your own.

2. Is there any Must See/Must Do things we need to be aware of.

3. For those that have been on this ship Is our room category selection a good one or are there things to consider which might not be obvious for those who haven't been there before.

 

 

Good for you, great first choice!

 

Flight booking depends on your air habits I think. Booking with the cruise line will get you Air Tahiti Nui, which is affiliated with AA but I don't believe you can use miles to book, just accumulate. Have a look at the Business Class fares that PGC offers you. The other alternative, depending on the timing of your pre- and post-cruise stays, would be Air France, which is SkyTeam I think. So if you have points, or like collecting points, it might make a difference. Business on ATN is okay, not fabulous, but better than coach.

 

You'll have plenty of time on Moorea to do the obvious musts, like driving up the Belvedere lookout to see the view. The dolphin watch excursion with Michael Poole is great if you like wildlife, and we also took a very nice catamaran trip with snorkeling last time we were there.

 

On the cruise itself, the "motu day", at motu Mahana, off Taha'a, is wonderful, as is the private beach usually available while in Bora Bora.

 

I'm sure the balcony cabin will be fine--the cabins on this ship are a good size by industry standards, although not huge.