Mariner, Concierge Level

[sarawithanh]

Hello,

 

I am 32yr old female, and possibly accompanying my 87 yo Grandfather on the Monte Carlo to Barcelona June 2014 cruise aboard Mariner. 2 for 1 fares and he needs a roomie ;)

 

A few questions - I can't tell from website, though, we could probably find out from a TA, is it possible for the beds to be separated???? NOT sleeping with my grandfather in the same bed - yuck!

 

Also, is it true the rooms are all about 300 square feet? I was recently on a Carnival cruise and the rooms averaged 185square feet (though hubby and I got a handicapped room so it felt roomier). Wondering how spacious the concerige rooms are going to be for two people with separate beds in the room?

 

Tips/tricks etc appreciated for this Regent Newbie.

 

My grandfather can be quite difficult/complains a lot so trying to get a feel for things ahead of time.

 

Thanks!

[nana541]

No problem the beds separate with the bedside table in the middle instead of on the side. The bed area accommodates either configuration and does not take up extra room.

 

All "Deluxe" cabins are identical, Concierge or not, they cabins do not change until you reach the Suite level. Only the location changes and on Mariner there is really no bad cabin or location so my advice is don't waste money on Concierge! However the Penthouse cabins on Mariner are lovely and for you and grandpa that may provide for a roomier experience!

 

You will love this Regent experience, be sure and fly in at least 2 days early to allow your Grandfather to recover from the long flight and to see the sights at your Embarkation Port.

Go on the Regent website and look at the cabins, they really do look Exactly what is shown! Including Walk in Closet.

Because of your Grandfathers age MAKE SURE YOU GET A SHOWER ONLY CABIN.... Other wise he will need to climb into a very large bathtub to get to the shower.... This is a must!!!!

[1982CruzStart]

The bed setup is either 2 beds or put together as 1. The choice is yours. You specify when you book. If by some chance they are put together when you board you simply ask your room steward or stewardess to change it.

 

The rooms are 252 sq feet with a balcony of 49 sq ft on Mariner. All the rooms from H to D are this same size. We have only been on Voyager and its rooms are 306 sq ft plus 50 sq ft balcony and they are fantastic. I am not sure how much difference the 54 sq ft will make though i think you will find the space generous especially after the smaller staterooms you have been in. Hopefully someone that has been on Mariner and Voyager can give you an idea of the feel of the suites. You'll enjoy the generous bathroom and walk-in closet.

 

Frankly on most itineraries I wouldn't spend the extra money for a concierge level suite unless there are specific benefits you are wanting from concierge that you don't think you can get without spending that much extra money.

 

Regardless Regent is great so enjoy.

[sarawithanh]

Thanks for the reply!!!

 

Flying in ahead of time a big problem for me. I am already cutting my previously planned beach vacation with my husband's family (it happens to be the last beach vacay where all of my husbands siblings will be able to join us - b/c his sister/hubby are going to Ukraine for 4 years for contracted work assignment).

 

The cruise leaves at 10pm on Sunday June 22.

 

I would prefer to leave sometime Saturday June 21 to fly over to Monte Carlo because I will be driving back from the beach on Friday June 20.

 

However, I suppose if there was a late night Fri night flight, I could still swing the drive back from beach, only to turn around and catch a flight. Need to check flight options with TA!

 

Thanks!

[nana541]

Thanks for the reply!!!

 

Flying in ahead of time a big problem for me. I am already cutting my previously planned beach vacation with my husband's family (it happens to be the last beach vacay where all of my husbands siblings will be able to join us - b/c his sister/hubby are going to Ukraine for 4 years for contracted work assignment).

 

The cruise leaves at 10pm on Sunday June 22.

 

I would prefer to leave sometime Saturday June 21 to fly over to Monte Carlo because I will be driving back from the beach on Friday June 20.

 

However, I suppose if there was a late night Fri night flight, I could still swing the drive back from beach, only to turn around and catch a flight. Need to check flight options with TA!

 

Thanks!

 

YIKS! A flight leaving the 21st won't even get there until the 22nd you still need to either train or bus to Monte Carlo, if anything goes wrong you could well miss the ship! Is there not a different week to cruise that will allow you a bit more room for error?

[sarawithanh]

The only "big" difference between Concierge and Deluxe Veranda seems to be 24hour room service?

 

Wouldn't room service be included for ALL staterooms regardless??

 

Yeah I'm thinking the "extra" 50feet may prove to be super roomy compared to rooms I've been in the past!

[sarawithanh]

Yeah I think maybe we need to take a Fri night late flight. Need to check with TA.

 

I would assume that since Regent is booking the flights that the ship wouldn't leave without us?

 

there are 2 other sailings in June but I can't go b/c of 10yr college reuinion and leaving for beach trip.

 

For some reason he REALLY is hooked on THIs particular cruise, though I think the ONLY reason why is b/c he saw it advertised through our local DC radio station WMAL and one of his favorite wackadoodle political DJs is going to be on the trip.

[sarawithanh]

I would prefer to do a end of May or Late August sailing somewhere so that I am not leaving my beach vacation early (can't do anytime before May since I'm in Grad School and can't do the month of July due to a summer class)....

Edited December 16, 2013 by sarawithanh

[nana541]

The only "big" difference between Concierge and Deluxe Veranda seems to be 24hour room service?

 

Wouldn't room service be included for ALL staterooms regardless??

 

Yeah I'm thinking the "extra" 50feet may prove to be super roomy compared to rooms I've been in the past!

 

There is room service in ALL cabins....and I have traveled in Deluxe cabins on both Mariner and Voyager and yes there is a slight difference at the pathway at the end of the bed it's wider.... My favorite ship is Mariner and would much rather travel in Mariner, there truly is not a big difference in the cabin size, I fact I think the real difference between the two near identical cabins is a slight difference in the closet and a pretty big difference in the bathroom. Both cabins are lovely and once again compare them side by side on the website....it is a very true representation.

 

My last PS is you do realize the 2 For 1 pricing is a marketing gimmick?? The price they are showing you is the price for "one" passenger. And yes it does include Air, tips, transfers, all liquor, and tours...

Edited December 16, 2013 by nana541

[xrvlcruiser]

You've had some good advice here - check out the web site for sure.

 

I fully agree about the shower - that has to be a necessity. The tubs are treacherous for any one and for your Grandfather at 87, I would not consider anything else. This cannot be an option.

 

The cabin are fine - a very nice size with a sitting area - a couch and a couple of chairs by the door to the balcony.

 

The Mariner is a lovely ship, the staff and crew are marvelous . . . . .

 

Enjoy!

[nana541]

Yeah I think maybe we need to take a Fri night late flight. Need to check with TA.

 

I would assume that since Regent is booking the flights that the ship wouldn't leave without us?

 

there are 2 other sailings in June but I can't go b/c of 10yr college reuinion and leaving for beach trip.

 

For some reason he REALLY is hooked on THIs particular cruise, though I think the ONLY reason why is b/c he saw it advertised through our local DC radio station WMAL and one of his favorite wackadoodle political DJs is going to be on the trip.

 

Ok so he wants this trip! But as for the ship waiting for?? Not happening, passengers chase cruise ships all the time. Make sure your have cruise insurance and given your grandfathers age I am not certain that is possible but check as to your options at (insure my trip dot com) as June is a long way away for someone who is 87.

[sarawithanh]

Yes, I realize the 2 for 1 fare is a marketing gimmick. I'm hoping my mom pointed that out to him when she was trying to reason with him last night LOL. She also pointed out that the "radio advertisement" offerings do not differ from normal offerings...probably in a point to show him that he doesn't HAVE go on this sailing - knowing that I would be more able to go if it wasn't during June or July.

 

Bigger bathroom - count me in. I think we will need it.

 

Are there usually "formal" nights on the cruise or is it all Elegant Casual?

[sarawithanh]

regarding 2 for 1.

 

Would he be able to go on the cruise by himself and only pay the 1 passenger fee as advertised??

 

(I mean, i'm sure he doesn't want to just go by himself, but he has nobody willing to share a room with him - my uncle did not want to go and my mom did not want to go - I volunteered to take mom's spot)

[sarawithanh]

The regent website is so utterly confusing and all those asterisks and fine print.

 

That is probably the one thing turning me off the brand.

 

I was excited about free wifi until I saw the asterisk - not being offered til winter 2014. ANNOYING.

 

This poor grad student really could use some wifi to kill the time she will be spending waiting for gramps - and lament/share pics on FB ;)

[nana541]

Yes, I realize the 2 for 1 fare is a marketing gimmick. I'm hoping my mom pointed that out to him when she was trying to reason with him last night LOL. She also pointed out that the "radio advertisement" offerings do not differ from normal offerings...probably in a point to show him that he doesn't HAVE go on this sailing - knowing that I would be more able to go if it wasn't during June or July.

 

Bigger bathroom - count me in. I think we will need it.

 

Are there usually "formal" nights on the cruise or is it all Elegant Casual?

 

No formal nights thank god! This is a very port intensive trip....also there is no "fixed" seating for meals, you simply show up and are seated (rarely any waiting) and tables for two are never an issue or you can join a group if you are so inclined.

The bathrooms on Mariner are very large compared to other cruise lines I'm just thinking that where some of that extra space went to, as the actual living area is so similar except at the end of the bed. Like I said Mariner is my favorite ship, voyagers bathroom I do prefer :)

Edited December 16, 2013 by nana541

[RachelG]

All elegant casual. No formal nights.

 

You definitely need to fly in at least a day early. Monte Carlo uses the Nice airport, and you will need either a car or taxi to take you from Nice to Monte Carlo.

 

The suites are plenty big, and there is no problem at all separating the beds. I have taken my son a couple of times. But the shower only is a must!

 

And no, if he went by himself, he most likely would have to pay 100% single supplement. Which means both fares. There would be a small reduction for air credit for one person (presuming he is using Regent air), but that would be it. And is he really in good enough shape to travel that far by himself? Maybe you could hire a travel companion.

[xrvlcruiser]

Insurance: because of your Grandfather's age, the ship's insurance - although not perfect - may be a better choice. Most of the other companies use age to determine the cost. As someone already said, check it out.

 

You mentioned a radio personality who is to be on that cruise. Is there a special deal by reserving though his group? Might give a better price or some extra perks. Worth checking out.

[nana541]

Insurance: because of your Grandfather's age, the ship's insurance - although not perfect - may be a better choice. Most of the other companies use age to determine the cost. As someone already said, check it out.

 

You mentioned a radio personality who is to be on that cruise. Is there a special deal by reserving though his group? Might give a better price or some extra perks. Worth checking out.

 

Ditto...cruise critic really really needs a "Like" button!

[sarawithanh]

My mom looked at the radio deal offering and it doesn't appear to offer any other deals/perks different from we saw on cruise site.

 

(side note: what other cruise ships are on par with Regent's offerings? - trying to see if there is something else in May/August just to have it in back of my mind)

[nana541]

Sail Regent you will not regret it! I don't think IMO any other line really compares in the over all experience, All Inclusive, Country Club Casual, open dining without reservations, only 700ish passengers and All Suites.

 

IMHO you just can't beat the entire experience, now can you sail for less money? Yes but not with the same experience.

[DaveFr]

I echo the comments others have made. In particular, if you want a shower only suite be sure to book a suite whose number ends in 1 through 6. Those are the shower only suites.

 

The cruise you are thinking about is part of the WHYCHOOSE promotion which includes free Wi-Fi and $200 of shipboard credit per stateroom.

 

I also recommend not booking a concierge suite. There are nice Category G suites, such as 761, available that are better IMO than the Category E suites available and will save you $600 pp. The G suites do not include the included precruise hotel night but you can use the $1200 savings to get a nice hotel room plus transfers and still come out way ahead.

 

Hope this helps.

[Emdee]

I suggest you get a TA that knows Regent who will help you with all the little things.

You will be very comfortable with the lovely rooms and walk in closets on Regent. There is no need to get a Concierge room as others have said.

 

You will have to fly to Nice to board at Monte Carlo and if you dont want to take the limo or bus from the airport you could take a helicopter. Its under 10 minutes though the ride is not as spectacular as I expected.

[8dimsum]

Happy that your grandfather wants to go on a cruise that interests him. I would strongly advise you to shorten your beach family vacay and go earlier with your elderly relative to Europe. He may need more recovery time per the air flight stressors. The fatigue post international travel can hit either you or him... catching a bug will make you feel worse. The all inclusive aspect of taking a Regent cruise covers alot, but not medical care, if needed.

 

I have escorted/roomed with my elderly Mom on land tours and on cruises. She is fairly outgoing and yet still needs a fair amount of catering to. She grasps the "big picture" and I am there to handle all the rest: bills, travel documents, wake up calls... The memories we share of our travels are priceless. Having me fuss makes her feel special and cared for.

 

Go with an open heart and make memories!

[8dimsum]

no need

he all inclusive aspect of taking a Regent cruise covers alot, but not medical care, if needed.

 

I have escorted/roomed with my elderly Mom on land tours and on cruises. She is fairly outgoing and yet still needs a fair amount of catering to. She grasps the "big picture" and I am there to handle all the rest: bills, travel documents, wake up calls... The memories we share of our travels are priceless. Having me fuss makes her feel special and cared for.

 

Go with an open heart and make memories!

 

oops, didn't get back to editing my post per time limit:

 

A Regent cruise is all inclusive. Medical care and services are a seperate charge.

 

Pace yourselves: take some tours, eat in moderation, plan on downtime/naps and have some time away from one another.

....

Fussing over Mom doesn't stem the complaints and opinions of an 88 yo! Which is why I advise setting some time away from your relative while on the cruise: pool time, library, DVD viewing... refresh yourself in the spa!

[pingpong1]

XRVLCruiser - You are absolutely correct in your advice to the OP regarding Regent's cruise insurance! It's one of Regents few "economical bargains". For younger travelers, you can probably do as well or better with other insurance offerings. But for a senior - senior traveler (like the OP's Granddad), they won't find a better/cheaper deal. My Dad (95) travels with us on Regent. I've checked the insurance competition and it is astronomical in price at his age. Regent only charges 10% of each passenger's total fare - regardless of age. To Ensure (Whoops - I mean Insure) my Dad's trips with any other commercial travel insurance would cost 2-3 times (in premiums) as much as what Regent charges. In this particular case, Regent's Insurance (at least for the 87-year old passenger) is a very good deal.

 

I would also most strongly echo the recommendation to specify a bathroom with a walk-in shower - definitely NOT a shower/tub combination. The tub could be a "killer" - literally. Europe, in general, is certainly not "ADA Compliant". Falls are the single biggest "killers" of elderly folks. Even if they "just" break something - things are never the same afterwards and it's a pretty fast downhill spiral after that. At the hotels we have stayed at in Europe that don't have walk--in showers (that's just about all of them!) I carefully and personally help my dad into the tub and I'm standing nearby the entire time. Most of the tubs don't even have non-skid floors in them. I also carefully help my Dad out. Once, when I was firmly holding on to him, he STILL fell, and got a big bruise on his hip. But fortunately, nothing more serious than that! If I hadn't been there.....I hate to think!

 

The OP is probably (and appropriately) not going to be inclined to help her Grand Dad in the bathroom shower/bathing mode - So be watchful and wary while he is in Europe hotels (and even out walking on the streets with uneven cobblestones and on stairs/steps with no handrails - another common occurrence in Europe.)

 

Also strongly recommend Nana's suggestion - if at all possible - to arrive at destination a day before embarkation to "catch up" with jet lag/time zones and to allow for unexpected delays. My Dad is a real "trooper", but I simply have to make allowances for his age and for the fact that he simply moves "slower" than we do and his "battery runs down" quicker than ours do -although we're not too far behind! :eek:. I would suggest to the OP that if you want to minimize Grand Dad's "grumpiness" do yourselves both a favor and build in plenty of "relax time" and try to accommodate his pace, his more sensitive diet to strange foods, and his other little "preferences".

 

You're a great "sport" for volunteering to accompany him on this "trip of a lifetime", and you're blessed to still have him around. Try to help him enjoy your company and the entire Regent experience. Let us know how things turn out. Best Regards.