NCL Epic or RCL Oasis? 30yr old single guy

[gofolite1]

Well, I was just about to book the Oasis and then I heard about the single rooms/studios on the Epic...sound great! Just wondering if they are as good as advertised. I would save a good amount of money doing going with the Epic, however I've heard such great reviews about the Oasis...

 

Has anyone stayed in the Epic's studios? Which ship/experience would you suggest for a 30 yr old single guy? Thanks all!

[ColinIllinois]

Well, I was just about to book the Oasis and then I heard about the single rooms/studios on the Epic...sound great! Just wondering if they are as good as advertised. I would save a good amount of money doing going with the Epic, however I've heard such great reviews about the Oasis...

 

Has anyone stayed in the Epic's studios? Which ship/experience would you suggest for a 30 yr old single guy? Thanks all!

 

 

As you can tell by my sig block I will be going on the Epic and staying in the Studios for the third time. I think they are an awesome bargain. My next cruise I got for only $735 (with military discount). Yes, the rooms are small indeed but they are very efficiently laid out. I'm one of those people, like many, who are only in the room to sleep, change, and shower so I didn't mind the size especially when I got such good prices.

 

The Studio's as you may know have their own lounge (The Living Room) and they have gatherings for solo travelers every evening of the cruise. They have a crew member who comes in and coordinates events like a group dinner and they even brought in the comedian last trip. You can either participate or not, it's up to you.

 

Not sure what you are looking for as a single guy. I didn't think of the Epic as a party ship for singles but I met a ton of nice people and had more than my share of fun (and beer). :D

 

I would recommend it.

[Single Cruiser]

Guess it also depends on how social you want to be. Epic will definitely have more single or solo cruisers than Oasis. I'm in my 30s and loved the studios.. Everything you need and loved the lounge if you fancied a chat, grab a cookie or drink..

 

Here is a quick scan of the studio from standing at the door and then some pics of the lounge area.

 

(vid of room)

 

P6020057 by single_cruiser, on Flickr

 

P6020058 by single_cruiser, on Flickr

[Cruisegirl6]

I have not been on the Epic nor do I think I will cruise NCL soon due to the freestyle issue....you see all cruise lines have their own terminology as to anytime dining....so NCL is not offering anything different here (it used to be) (RC calls it Mytime dining and I believe Carnival calls it anytime dining). I have heard from many who have cruised on NCL stating that sometimes even though they do have reservations they had to wait for their table for dinner. Just as RC or other cruise lines offer specialty dining, so does NCL so when you read that they have all these choices in dining, do know there are also additonal frees to go to them. I also read that NCL nickle and dimes you more than the other cruise lines.

 

What I not like are those studio rooms have you even seen photos of them it looks as if it is a white room in a sanitarium to me with the cushion like walls next to the bed, to me its a turn off totally. The room is even smaller...all staterooms are small enought that I can't imagine any smaller stateroom even if I were to cruise by myself but for a solo cruiser I can understand it saves them money. They do offer you that lounge but look at it, to me it does not have any nice appearance, sort of a small little area that turns me off, as a single person you are, I feel you much rather be in the nice beautiful lounges and such and you also can meet more people that way. I like to know how many people really use that small lounge, I for one love the beauty of the main areas on the ship.

 

Honestly I will stick with RC but I also would like to hear other people's opinons as I find this studio room interesting but not in a taste that I prefer as far as the decor of the rooms.

[ColinIllinois]

I have not been on the Epic nor do I think I will cruise NCL soon due to the freestyle issue....you see all cruise lines have their own terminology as to anytime dining....so NCL is not offering anything different here (it used to be) (RC calls it Mytime dining and I believe Carnival calls it anytime dining). I have heard from many who have cruised on NCL stating that sometimes even though they do have reservations they had to wait for their table for dinner. Just as RC or other cruise lines offer specialty dining, so does NCL so when you read that they have all these choices in dining, do know there are also additonal frees to go to them. I also read that NCL nickle and dimes you more than the other cruise lines.

 

What I not like are those studio rooms have you even seen photos of them it looks as if it is a white room in a sanitarium to me with the cushion like walls next to the bed, to me its a turn off totally. The room is even smaller...all staterooms are small enought that I can't imagine any smaller stateroom even if I were to cruise by myself but for a solo cruiser I can understand it saves them money. They do offer you that lounge but look at it, to me it does not have any nice appearance, sort of a small little area that turns me off, as a single person you are, I feel you much rather be in the nice beautiful lounges and such and you also can meet more people that way. I like to know how many people really use that small lounge, I for one love the beauty of the main areas on the ship.

 

Honestly I will stick with RC but I also would like to hear other people's opinons as I find this studio room interesting but not in a taste that I prefer as far as the decor of the rooms.

 

The lounge when I was on it was busy around the happy hour time but for the most part there was just a few people here and there that used it like in the morning for coffee and pastries.

 

Looking at pictures of the lounge and rooms I think they don't do it justice. I think the lounge is quite nice looking as are the rooms (with very comfy beds I might add). Others would disagree with me though, I'm sure.

 

It works well for me though and it's not just because I can't afford something more "upscale". I just enjoy the setup.

 

To each their own........... :)

[CruisinMaterial]

Has anyone stayed in the Epic's studios? Which ship/experience would you suggest for a 30 yr old single guy? Thanks all!

 

I have stayed in the studios at the age of 29 and I had a GREAT time! I highly recommend the Norwegian Epic for the solo travelers! The rooms are hip and the meeting area and 2-for-1 social hour drink specials help to get to meet your fellow passengers. Our week there were quite a few younger folks in the studios and we hung out everywhere.

 

As for what to do, the Epic has a huge casino if that's your thing. If nightclubs are your thing then the EPIC's nightlife is INCREDIBLE! You have Spice H2O which is a great place day or night under the stars and just as good is Bliss Ultra. The social hostess named Natalie is exceptional in helping solo cruisers connect and you can have dinner with the group who sign up each night in each of the specialty restaurants or do your own thing.

 

On Oasis, I can't compare but I know they don't really do much for singles like NCL does on the EPIC so my vote is EPIC! :D

[camz]

I have not been on the Epic nor do I think I will cruise NCL soon due to the freestyle issue....you see all cruise lines have their own terminology as to anytime dining....so NCL is not offering anything different here (it used to be) (RC calls it Mytime dining and I believe Carnival calls it anytime dining). I have heard from many who have cruised on NCL stating that sometimes even though they do have reservations they had to wait for their table for dinner. Just as RC or other cruise lines offer specialty dining, so does NCL so when you read that they have all these choices in dining, do know there are also additonal frees to go to them. I also read that NCL nickle and dimes you more than the other cruise lines.

 

What I not like are those studio rooms have you even seen photos of them it looks as if it is a white room in a sanitarium to me with the cushion like walls next to the bed, to me its a turn off totally. The room is even smaller...all staterooms are small enought that I can't imagine any smaller stateroom even if I were to cruise by myself but for a solo cruiser I can understand it saves them money. They do offer you that lounge but look at it, to me it does not have any nice appearance, sort of a small little area that turns me off, as a single person you are, I feel you much rather be in the nice beautiful lounges and such and you also can meet more people that way. I like to know how many people really use that small lounge, I for one love the beauty of the main areas on the ship.

 

Honestly I will stick with RC but I also would like to hear other people's opinons as I find this studio room interesting but not in a taste that I prefer as far as the decor of the rooms.

 

With all due respect, it is obvious by your post that you are not a fan of NCL. That being said, I have to ask why it is that you would even consider posting on the NCL Boards and not just stick to RC Boards, where you are obviously happy? In all honesty, I am everything NCL and I don't even look at the other lines' boards. Again, I mean no disrespect, however, I just had to ask since you have never been aboard the Epic, but went ahead and posted your thoughts about dislikes anyway. You can only get so much information by looking at the photos and not experiencing the ship. Just saying......

[Single Cruiser]

BTW they have stopped the 2-1 drinks offer! :(.

 

Having had a promenade view cabin on Indy of the Seas last December and A Studio this year. Given the choice I'd probably go for the smaller studio.

 

The handy vending machines to just swipe your card for a bottle of drink or some candy/chips. The communal kitchen type with instant hot water, no boiling kettles was just so convenient.

 

On RCL there was very few solo travellers and I was allocated on tables with couples. On Epic we met up, people would write on the flip chart looking for meal/ice bar/bowling groups and a time and I had a few nights with great company...

 

The drinks machine in the lounge was often used by the ships officers who would pop in and have a chat...

 

Also by far NCL had a much younger passenger age than RCI

[Cruzaholic41]

Well, I was just about to book the Oasis and then I heard about the single rooms/studios on the Epic...sound great! Just wondering if they are as good as advertised. I would save a good amount of money doing going with the Epic, however I've heard such great reviews about the Oasis...

 

Has anyone stayed in the Epic's studios? Which ship/experience would you suggest for a 30 yr old single guy? Thanks all!

 

I have not stayed in a studio, but I did see the studio area and lounge. As a solo traveler, I think it is probably the best set-up in cruising for solos.

 

That said, once out of the lounge, EPIC just does not compare with Oasis (I have ACTUALLY been on both). I found Oasis's restaurants to be better and the shows to be better. Plus the actual ship (Oasis) blows away the Epic. The Solarium (adults only), Central Park, Promenade, and Boardwalk are marvels and the "wow" factor is much higher than Epic. Honestly, there is no ship class at sea that can compare with Oasis. Epic would be better compared with RCI's Freedom Class.

[Silverman]

Do a search for Epic reviews. Some really good solo reviews. As far as shows go. BMG is better than Hairspray. Im pretty sure you would enjoy Epic more. Im kind of going thru the same thing. But different ships. Freedom of the Seas, Carnival Liberty, Pearl or Epic. Thinking about Epic just because for my sail date it could save me up to 450 dollars. I could do a lot more excursions with that extra money. Plus a few more beers!!!

[sdmike]

Don's review of Epic in my signature line chronicles his trip as a single. It's good reading with lots of information and pictures.

[willysgrandma]

I've been on the Oasis, the Allure and the Epic - I think you would really like the Epic. When we sailed on the Oasis and Allure, I thought that nothing could compare to the entertainment on those ships, but the Epic did. Blue Man Group, Second City, Fat Cats, Legends in Concert - excellent entertainment.

 

And the studio cabins are excellent - you actually have a real room around the toilet, not a glass door. The Living Room is a great area and was always busy at night. There was a daily Happy Hour - sorry to see someone say that has been discontinued. You'll meet lots of other solo travelers to hang out with, eat with, etc.

 

While the food is not that great on NCL - (RCCL is much better) - I really enjoyed the Epic and what it had to offer.

[gofolite1]

Thanks everyone for the replies. I've decided to book the Epic! Extremely excited. Headed to the Eastern Caribbean. Any suggestions on excursions or on board activities will be much appreciated.

 

Best,

John

 

P.S. Don's review was great!

[Cruisegirl6]

CollinIllinois- I guess it is true photos do no justice have to see it in person. :)

 

Cruisinmaterial- Honestly I think the studio staterooms are wonderful for those who want the bargain and not pay the extra costs of nearly a double rate when they traveling single. It makes sense at least solo cruisers have a choice.

 

Camz- I read all posts, RC, Carnival, Princess, Celebrity, NCL mainly. I have been on a number of ships 46 in my lifetime and I not 50 yet, and I like to read up on all the latest things regarding cruise ships.

I have family and friends going on the Epic this november, thanksgiving cruise we chose not to go for a few reasons for starters the airports be very crowded during that week, the ship will be full of kids and it will be packed, so we won't go... We also not like the freestyle dining, not want to wait in a line for a table, as some of our family already cruised the Pearl last year and said they had to wait for their table even though they had reservations. NCL is certainly on my list for the future just not at this time. The past two ncl cruises we have taken the cabins had squeeky noises in it at night which woke me up a number of times during the night. I have seen photos of that single cabin that "cushion type wall look" just turns me off, the lights in the hallway of all colors and in the rooms not appeal to me thats all.

 

Cruisaholic- I have not yet gone on the Allure/Oasis but will book after my next cruise next month and I have heard the very same thing you saying from people.

 

Gofolite1- Bon Voyage!

[kannruss]

I haven't been in a studio (though I've been tempted many times!) but I LOVED the Epic. I haven't had issues with NCL. In fact last year I did two cruises close together and one was booked through Royal Caribbean (so I had no choice) and you talk about lines. That is the worst dining experience I've ever had. I never waited in a line so long before and it was every night. Not that I haven't waited in dining lines on NCL especially for main dining but this was insane (like disembarkation lines). I hope you enjoy the Epic as much as I did.

[Cruisegirl6]

Kannruss are you saying you waited in lines on your RC cruise or NCL cruise its not clear to me?

 

I never wait in lines on RC its either I chose the main dining room or what we really do is dine in Portofino's two evenings and two evenings in Chops...we love the specialty dining and never ever waited in lines with our reservations there.

[sdmike]

Our group never once waited to get into a restaurant on the Epic, and there were 11 of us most nights! You do realize there are something like 15-20 places to eat there, right? Lots of people but spread out all over the ship for food, entertainment, etc.

[kannruss]

Royal Caribbean - my only experience on them - main dining room every night. Horrible lines. Packed in like sardines for them to open the doors.

 

Short lines on NCL yes - nothing like I experienced on RC. Again, I prefer NCL and only was on this ship because it was a specialty cruise.

[Tatka]

I have not been on the Epic nor do I think I will cruise NCL soon due to the freestyle issue....you see all cruise lines have their own terminology as to anytime dining....so NCL is not offering anything different here (it used to be) (RC calls it Mytime dining and I believe Carnival calls it anytime dining). I have heard from many who have cruised on NCL stating that sometimes even though they do have reservations they had to wait for their table for dinner. Just as RC or other cruise lines offer specialty dining, so does NCL so when you read that they have all these choices in dining, do know there are also additonal frees to go to them. I also read that NCL nickle and dimes you more than the other cruise lines.

 

Well, NCL freestyle dining is very different from RCCL's MyTime dining. On RCCL to get a guaranteed table for two you actually have to make a reservations (area is very small). We like to have a dinner 6-7, but on 4 out of 10 nights it was not available. On NCL you just have to show up. We never had any waiting time. NCL has more various options for paid restaurants too, some are cheap.

 

On the other note I think regular inside cabins on NCL is very small and should be for 1 person. ;)

[oceanseagle12]

OP- be sure to check out the roll call for your sailing, once you decide when you are going. It is a great way to "meet" people before you go, and share ideas about excursions, etc.

[Got2Cruise]

Excursions- in St. Marten- Americas Cup Race, one of our favorite excursions ever. In St. Thomas, join a snorkeling excursion. The snorkeling is great in St. Thomas lots of different reefs they can bring you to. I'm not certain, but usually in the Bahamas there is usually a private island beach party excursion where they bring you to a beach, with drinks and games. Look for that if you don't want to be "all by yourself" on the beach. You made a wise choice. And I agree, definitely join he roll call. There will be a Meet and Greet and you can meet people and have familiar faces on board so you don't feel "alone".

Thanks everyone for the replies. I've decided to book the Epic! Extremely excited. Headed to the Eastern Caribbean. Any suggestions on excursions or on board activities will be much appreciated.

 

Best,

John

 

P.S. Don's review was great!

[Cruisegirl6]

Kannruss- I never experienced any lines into the dining room and have been on many ships of theirs. Perhaps that happens when people start to line up waiting for the dining room doors to open once they open those people get in and there are no lines. I always show up 5-7 minutes after the doors open up never once had any line or any problem just walking in at our own pace.

The doors stay open for at least 20 minutes why get there early if there are lines at that time?

 

On RC you can go to the maitre d' and tell him what time and days you want mytime dining so you will get a table (you can reserve my time dining the first evening for all the nights you want) this won't cause any delays of waiting for a table.

 

Tatka, absolutely correct on RC you get an assigned table and this is why my family went on the Pearl last year and had to wait for their table 4 out of 7 evenings even with having reservations because they are not assigned to a table.

[crusinmama06]

Royal Caribbean - my only experience on them - main dining room every night. Horrible lines. Packed in like sardines for them to open the doors.

 

Short lines on NCL yes - nothing like I experienced on RC. Again, I prefer NCL and only was on this ship because it was a specialty cruise.

 

Not to point out the obvious, but you were on the smallest/oldest ship in the RCI fleet (Majesty) and you were on a "specialty cruise" - so maybe things were just running differently. Can't say I've ever been packed like a sardine and waited in line anywhere on a RCI ship. The OP was asking about the newest and largest in the RCI fleet.

 

It's just like lyndamr saying that he won't try NCL because of all of the "nickle and diming" because of what he read. :rolleyes: Not by what he experienced on a NCL ship.

 

All of these impressions of ships you all have never tried.

 

gofolite1 - Congrats on booking Epic! I hope to be following your lead next year. Not for the single life - but it does look like a great ship. ENJOY!

[Cruzaholic41]

Well, NCL freestyle dining is very different from RCCL's MyTime dining. On RCCL to get a guaranteed table for two you actually have to make a reservations (area is very small). We like to have a dinner 6-7, but on 4 out of 10 nights it was not available. On NCL you just have to show up. We never had any waiting time. NCL has more various options for paid restaurants too, some are cheap.

 

This is false info. The Op is asking about Oasis. On Oasis, there is an entire floor of the 3 story dining room dedicated to MTD. And no, you do not need to make a reservation to get a 2-top table. Just like on NCL ships, wait lines depend on how many people show up at one particular time. 7:00 is very popular and if, say 40 people show up right at 7:00, there will always be a line - on both Epic and Oasis.

 

Royal Caribbean - my only experience on them - main dining room every night. Horrible lines. Packed in like sardines for them to open the doors.

 

Short lines on NCL yes - nothing like I experienced on RC. Again, I prefer NCL and only was on this ship because it was a specialty cruise.

 

Again, let's try to keep focused. This, in no way, describes the Oasis. None of RCI's ships were build to accomodate MTD before Oasis.

[Tatka]

Tatka, absolutely correct on RC you get an assigned table and this is why my family went on the Pearl last year and had to wait for their table 4 out of 7 evenings even with having reservations because they are not assigned to a table.

 

Well, I was talking about My Time Dining with RCCL, and regular dining room with NCL. We didn't have to wait with NCL - every time were greeted by the staff and got the table right away. On RCCL we had to reserve a table every day for the next one, and convenient times were not available, but if we didn't have reservations they couldn't guarantee us a table for two.