Thinking of booking my first Royal Caribbean cruise

[Vitality08]

I've cruised three times with Carnival and had an excellent time on all three cruises. Friends have told me I should try Royal Caribbean. With the current WOW sale going on, I'm thinking I just might. There's a February cruise that would be a perfect way to celebrate my birthday. I'm just a little nervous about what to expect.

 

I feel I "know" Carnival so well I'm a bit leary of going to another cruise line. For those who have cruised both, can you tell me what the biggest differences are that you have experienced?

 

I'm sure I'm going to book it, I just need that little push.

[janetz]

I've cruised three times with Carnival and had an excellent time on all three cruises. Friends have told me I should try Royal Caribbean. With the current WOW sale going on, I'm thinking I just might. There's a February cruise that would be a perfect way to celebrate my birthday. I'm just a little nervous about what to expect.

 

I feel I "know" Carnival so well I'm a bit leary of going to another cruise line. For those who have cruised both, can you tell me what the biggest differences are that you have experienced?

 

I'm sure I'm going to book it, I just need that little push.

 

I am going to shove you...:) Really, everyone has different expectations depending on what you like to do. Not being true to any line, we have done both RC and Carnival. RC won us over. We feel the food is better, the shows were great and we found so much to do onboard. On our last Carnival cruise on the Legend, aside from the shows we became bored. We are not casino people either. I am not knocking Carnival but sailing different lines is what "we" do. So far our favs are Celebrity, RC and Princess. I think you should try another...:D Just because...you can

[Aquahound]

Friends have told me I should try Royal Caribbean. With the current WOW sale going on, I'm thinking I just might. There's a February cruise that would be a perfect way to celebrate my birthday. I'm just a little nervous about what to expect.

 

What ship are you considering? Most RCI ship classes are very different from one another, so knowing what ship you are looking at matters.

[yogimax]

Without knowing details of what you are actually considering, by all means try RCCL.

 

We have sailed both lines and they both provide excellent value. There are, however, basic differences involving decor, activities, etc..

 

Will you prefer one over the other? No one here can answer that for you. The only way to find out is to book RCCL and experience it for yourself. My guess is that you will be pleasantly surprised!

[lv2cruise2]

I have never sailed on carnival but have sailed on princess several times and decided like you to try another cruise line and went on royal.

 

I LOVE IT!!!! Like another poster wrote it won me over! the food, the ship, everything was so wonderful!

 

Like you I am looking at another cruise with RCC right now and cant wait!

[PH8]

I have cruised both(ok,only once on Carnival) but enjoy them both........I just stick with RCCL for the perks(no matter how they are dwindling)

[Cruising Erin]

It really depends on what you like about Carnival. I had cruised Princess before and now am happy with Royal. I looked at booking Carnival but it came down to the passenger to space ratio. Smaller Carnival ships carry 500 more passengers than RCI. Royal ships are designed great and have very innovative features. Any cruise is better than no cruise. :)

[Vitality08]

I'm looking at Majesty of the Seas going to Nassau and CoCoCay. This itinerary for me is more about the dates than the destinations. Plus it gives me a short cruise to try RC out. Also, the shortness of it is perfect for a friend that is considering going.

 

I'm not a big partier but I like to gamble and I like games. I also like to go to the shows. I'm actually very easy to please and don't get upset over small things.

 

I'm looking at the 2/3-2/6 sailing. I think that's also superbowl weekend. My birthday normally falls very close to the superbowl although I'm not a big fan of football but if there was a large gathering on the ship to watch it, I'd most likely join in...or go to the casino...lol.

[The Big Booper]

I'm looking at Majesty of the Seas going to Nassau and CoCoCay. This itinerary for me is more about the dates than the destinations. Plus it gives me a short cruise to try RC out. Also, the shortness of it is perfect for a friend that is considering going.

 

I'm not a big partier but I like to gamble and I like games. I also like to go to the shows. I'm actually very easy to please and don't get upset over small things.

 

I'm looking at the 2/3-2/6 sailing. I think that's also superbowl weekend. My birthday normally falls very close to the superbowl although I'm not a big fan of football but if there was a large gathering on the ship to watch it, I'd most likely join in...or go to the casino...lol.

 

The Majesty is the oldest ship in the fleet. In it's day it was the best cruise ship in the world but that day was the early 90's.

 

This ship and it's twin, the Monarch are only used for short 3/4 trips out of Florida to the Bahamas. Lots of people love these ships and their friendly crews. There were many innovative features on these ships including the glass elevators, Centrum atrium, big pools in the center of the ship, the Large Viking Crown circular lounge, etc. But the cabins are very small, from 119 ft inside and 122 ft outside. All the other RCI ships have far larger cabins from 160 ft. up.

 

As a semi-party ship it is the best around as long as you don't get upset about the small cabins.

[hazeleyez3]

I have not sailed on the ship; however, as a pp said, its the oldest ship.

 

I don't know if she will truly give you a "taste" of what a RCI cruise is like. My thought is that the Vision or Radiance class are about on par with some of Carnival's ships.

 

You won't see a lot of the bells and whistles (at least in my eyes) until you get to the Voyager.

 

What I can tell you is that I have cruised both Carnival and Royal. I prefer Royal; however, I still like Carnival -we did the Carnival Miracle last year (after a few Royal cruises) and still had a wonderful time.

[Aquahound]

To clarify, Majesty is the 2nd oldest ship. Monarch is older. ;)

 

But like the others said, Majesty is quite different than the rest of the RCI fleet. It is, however, the best option for a 3 night cruise, in my opinion. The crew is top notch, the ship looks great, and the fellow passengers are much more tolerable.

 

My suggestion is, if you book this ship, book a deck 9 SO room. The room is much larger, has a small couch, and the hallways are much quieter.

[wantocruisemore]

I've cruised on both Carnival and RCCL in the past year. I really loved them both and found more similarities than differences. We sailed the Triumph with Carnival and Naviagator with RCCL. I would not hesitate to go on either again, and just booked RCCL for next summer. BUT, the main reason I booked RCCL is because I was pleased with this past summer and we wanted a 7 nt. Western Med cruise. RCCL had what we wanted. If Carnival had a similar cruise, we would have done that, depending on the price.

 

The main differences we noticed is that on Carnival you can carry on a bottle of wine and you can order liquor from bon voyage. We missed being able to do that on RCCL. Carnival also had the big screen theatre outside that one DD really liked and she missed that on RCCL.

 

But, RCCL had the rock wall the other DD liked and the ice show was really good. The aft balcony was bigger with RCCL (we only get afts).

 

Other than that, it was pretty much the same. The food was good on both. I did not like the casino as much on the Navigator. We're not big gamblers, just like the slots every once in awhile. Just didn't have as much luck and preferred using the sail card on Carnival as opposed to money on Navigator. They seemed to have games on both. My BIL and Niece took part in sports games on the Navigator.

 

The decor is a little less flashy/neon on RCCL, but then I don't cruise for the decor so it really doesn't matter.

 

I'm a firm believer in a cruise is alot of what you make of it. It sounds like you have been happy with Carnival. I have heard lots of negatives about the ships on both Carnival and RCCL on the 3/4 nt. Bahamas run. They tend to use their older ships for that. Honestly if all things were equal and I were choosing a 3/4 nt. Bahamas, I would likely choose Carnival over RCCL. That would change depending on the itinerary and possibly the ship.

[debates2]

I've cruised three times with Carnival and had an excellent time on all three cruises. Friends have told me I should try Royal Caribbean. With the current WOW sale going on, I'm thinking I just might. There's a February cruise that would be a perfect way to celebrate my birthday. I'm just a little nervous about what to expect.

 

I feel I "know" Carnival so well I'm a bit leary of going to another cruise line. For those who have cruised both, can you tell me what the biggest differences are that you have experienced?

 

I'm sure I'm going to book it, I just need that little push.

 

I've sailed both and each have unique attributes. Carnival tends to be the party ships, but have something for every age bracket. For me, Royal Caribbean offers more services. I like being pampered and yes I'm a balcony snob, but love concierge treatment. Both are affordable, but I encourage you to give Royal Caribbean a try. We're platinum level with their loyalty program now, if that tells you anything. Have fun!

[bobmal99]

I have been on Carnival & NCL several times.

Will be going on my first RCCL this December.

 

I have had great times on all my cruises.

Decided to see what all the fuss is about

with RCCL.

 

Will give a detailed report when I

come back in December...

 

Have already booked another Carnival

for February, 2012..

 

RCCL is my hold over cruise till

my February cruise..

[yogimax]

I'm looking at Majesty of the Seas going to Nassau and CoCoCay.

 

if you book Majesty, be sure to visit the Compass Deli for the fabulous dessert crepes!

[BecciBoo]

I'm looking at Majesty of the Seas .

 

O no, you musn't! To truly give you the WOW you have got to book a 7 day! Don't worry, you will not be disappointed! We loved Majesty, but she is one of the oldest ships in fleet. I recommend at least Voyager class to get the most representative of ships. But Freedom or Oasis/Allure would be even better. There was another thread comparing the lines using cars as an example, like Kia versus Lexus or something like that. Based on our one Carnival cruise, I agree with that assessment. Rccl will definitely give you the WOW factor. Ships are elegant, well laid out and activities a step up. Food is definitely a step up. Service is excellent. Although others disagree, you will have to make up your own mind. So why not book a 7 day on one of the newest ships to compare. Can't wait to see what you say next year! Enjoy!

[kelzbelz77]

O no, you musn't! To truly give you the WOW you have got to book a 7 day! Don't worry, you will not be disappointed! We loved Majesty, but she is one of the oldest ships in fleet. I recommend at least Voyager class to get the most representative of ships. But Freedom or Oasis/Allure would be even better. There was another thread comparing the lines using cars as an example, like Kia versus Lexus or something like that. Based on our one Carnival cruise, I agree with that assessment. Rccl will definitely give you the WOW factor. Ships are elegant, well laid out and activities a step up. Food is definitely a step up. Service is excellent. Although others disagree, you will have to make up your own mind. So why not book a 7 day on one of the newest ships to compare. Can't wait to see what you say next year! Enjoy!

 

I did just that. I booked Allure for 9/22/13 during the WOW sale. My niece saw pics of Oasis and boy she was ready. I will have completed 14 Carnival Cruises before we step foot on RCCL. I really am looking forward to this cruise. We knew we wanted FOS or better to try them out. I really am cruising for the ship not the intinerary on Allure. Now only 718 days to go!! :eek::p

[MichelleChell]

I can put it to you a simple way. Its like shopping at Target vs Macy's.

[BecciBoo]

I did just that. I booked Allure for 9/22/13 during the WOW sale. My niece saw pics of Oasis and boy she was ready. I will have completed 14 Carnival Cruises before we step foot on RCCL. I really am looking forward to this cruise. We knew we wanted FOS or better to try them out. I really am cruising for the ship not the intinerary on Allure. Now only 718 days to go!! :eek::p

 

Then you will have something to compare with in Carnival Breeze and Allure...since those are both the latest ships in their respective fleets. I'd love to hear what you think.

[wantocruisemore]

I can put it to you a simple way. Its like shopping at Target vs Macy's.

 

For our area more like Target and Kohl's. Both have some really good products, some good buys and each are certainly worth checking depending on what you are looking for.

 

Basically both give great service at decent prices and serve good food.

[Virtopia]

I've been on RCL and NCL, both Bahamas cruises.

 

With RCL, I thought I'd be disappointed in going on the Majesty, since is was one of the oldest ships, but I loved it. I don't think I could've tolerated it on a 7 night sailing, but 4 nights was just perfect. It was the right size for the destinations and the room size didn't bother me, as I was traveling by myself.

 

Although the Majesty won't give you a true representation of what RCL has to offer, it will make you interested enough to book another cruise with RCL.

[Upandadam]

By all means book it. Some things will be a little bit of a let down from what you're familiar with, and some things are going to be a pleasant surprise.

 

We were fortunate enough to once do a Carnival ship one week followed by the same itinerary on RCI the next. A great opportunity for comparison and here is a shor list of some of the differences we found between The Spelndor and Mariner of the Seas.

 

Show lounge: All of Carnival's lounges are a sofa type of set up with small tables for your drinks in front while RCI are individual seats like a movie theater and way more cramped. Once sat, you're stuck and a server can't really get to you. Shows were similar caliber. Advantage to Carnival by a long way.

 

Elevators: Many more elevators and elevator banks on Carnival. Carnival wins hands down.

 

Pool area: RCI had an actual full llive band and the deck and pools were much more interesting and not salt water. Beautiful area. Winner, RCI

 

Buffet: All of Carnival's are pretty much the same with some having a few more selections. RCI was a better selection, better tasting, and much better view. Kind of difficult to find cartons of milk to take back to your room like we always do while on Carnival, it's simple to stock up. You can't take your food out on the deck by the pool on RCI like you can on Carnival. Overall winner for the buffet has to be RCI.

 

Main dining room. RCI was elegant as all get out while Carnvial's is usually a bit over the top and even goofy sometimes. Carnival has warm chocolate metling cake while RCI doesn't have a signature desert that grabbed us. Food quality was slightly better on Carnival. Give Carnival the nod by a small margin.

 

Overall feel/Design: RCI has a definite "WOW" factor that Carnival doesn't have. Carnival tends to have a lot of windows in public areas so that you feel you're on the ocean for the most part. RCI had the royal Promenade which makes you feel like you're in a very upscale large shopping mall. If you're used to Carnival, this may be the biggerst difference you feel. At least on a Navigator Class. Each style has it's pluses but I'll call this a draw due to RCI being more impressive, but Carnival doing better and tying in the ocean with the ship. Other RCI classes are probably much different such as the Radiance Class from what I hear.

 

But there are many more similarities than differences.

[Cya@Sea]

I have cruised both. I prefer Royals ships and all the bells and whistles they have. The loyalty program is nicer in my opinion. Decor isn't as loud. There are a lot of similarities! I say give royal a try. We just tried Carnival again recently to Mexico (no royal in Mexico). We were pleasantly surprised. Would I sail Carnival again YES! Do I prefer Royal? Oh yes. Enjoy your cruise no matter who you sail with!

[papasaun]

I am trying to decide between the Carnival Magic and RCI Mariner of the Seas. I have three boys who will be 6, 9 & 11 at the time of sailing. I have cruised RCI before kids and really liked it. I have cruised Carnival three times with kids and really liked it too. I have heard in the past (say 2007) that Carnival had better kid programs but don't know how they compare now.

 

I doubt I could go wrong with either ship. Carnival's Magic is a fairly new ship, however I have heard the Mariner of the Seas will be gutted and refitted sometime in 2012. We plan to sale in Dec 2012. Any advice?

[Vitality08]

Well, the verdict is: I'm going on the Majesty of the Seas. I read what everyone says about the ship being older but really, the price, length, and dates work perfectly. It'll be my birthday weekend and my friend that's going really can't get more than 2 days off from work. Plus the price is perfect for her. The length is perfect for me also. I can take this 3 night without buring any vacation leave which is a plus because I have 2 land based vacations already booked for May 2012 and July 2012.

 

So anyway, I'll be booking tonight as soon as my friend calls me back.

 

Thanks for all the input.