Royal BVE 10/4/14

[argenta01]

Four of us went on the BVE aboard the Royal in Brooklyn today. It was fantastic! For $39, it is the bargain of the century.

 

We were the very first group to board at 11:45am. We had our pictures taken and were then escorted on board by the Future Cruise Consultant.

 

Once on board, we got a very brief talk about what dining room was open for lunch, where to pick up our pictures and what time to disembark. After that, you could either stay with her and have a 20 minute tour of the ship or head off on your own.

 

First thing we did was to go to a passenger deck and see if any cabin doors were open. Luckily we got to see a balcony and premium balcony. Very nice, but the balconies are a big thumbs down, hardly worth it. I can’t image having the UBD out there.

 

Next it was off to the Horizon Court. Love the layout. Can someone who has sailed on the ship, tell me what the difference between the Horizon Court and Horizon Bistro are, besides the furniture. ;-)

 

After a quick sampling at the Horizon Court, we headed down to Deck 5 where the MDR for lunch was located. They welcomed us as BVE guests and we got a lovely table for 4 next to the window.

 

The lunch menu is the same one I have seen on every BVE – salmon, chicken cacciatore and beef medallions. We all had the beef, which was tender, delicious and cooked to perfection. In addition to the wine, with dessert we were able to get espressos and cappuccinos. Very nice! Did not even have to use an old coffee card I brought. ;) Soda is also free for BVE guests.

 

After lunch we explored decks 5, 6 & 7. It all seemed so open and uncrowded. How is it once the ship is full and at sea??

 

Unfortunately, NY had the worst weather today. It was pouring up until about 2pm. The sun finally came out, so we headed back up to the open decks. Enjoyed the beautiful views of NYC and walking in the fresh air.

 

At 3pm we headed down to deck 6 to pick up our photos. We each got 2 different photos. Our last stop was Crooners where we relaxed with some martinis, until 3:30 when we had to disembark. :(

[Topo Gigio]

Four of us went on the BVE aboard the Royal in Brooklyn today. It was fantastic! For $39, it is the bargain of the century.

 

We were the very first group to board at 11:45am. We had our pictures taken and were then escorted on board by the Future Cruise Consultant.

 

Once on board, we got a very brief talk about what dining room was open for lunch, where to pick up our pictures and what time to disembark. After that, you could either stay with her and have a 20 minute tour of the ship or head off on your own.

 

First thing we did was to go to a passenger deck and see if any cabin doors were open. Luckily we got to see a balcony and premium balcony. Very nice, but the balconies are a big thumbs down, hardly worth it. I can’t image having the UBD out there.

 

Next it was off to the Horizon Court. Love the layout. Can someone who has sailed on the ship, tell me what the difference between the Horizon Court and Horizon Bistro are, besides the furniture. ;-)

 

After a quick sampling at the Horizon Court, we headed down to Deck 5 where the MDR for lunch was located. They welcomed us as BVE guests and we got a lovely table for 4 next to the window.

 

The lunch menu is the same one I have seen on every BVE – salmon, chicken cacciatore and beef medallions. We all had the beef, which was tender, delicious and cooked to perfection. In addition to the wine, with dessert we were able to get espressos and cappuccinos. Very nice! Did not even have to use an old coffee card I brought. ;) Soda is also free for BVE guests.

 

After lunch we explored decks 5, 6 & 7. It all seemed so open and uncrowded. How is it once the ship is full and at sea??

 

Unfortunately, NY had the worst weather today. It was pouring up until about 2pm. The sun finally came out, so we headed back up to the open decks. Enjoyed the beautiful views of NYC and walking in the fresh air.

 

At 3pm we headed down to deck 6 to pick up our photos. We each got 2 different photos. Our last stop was Crooners where we relaxed with some martinis, until 3:30 when we had to disembark. :(

 

Were the Martini's included in the $39?

[shepp]

Were the Martini's included in the $39?

 

Of course not. (I mean, I think you're kidding, but…) People on the BVE are treated like regular passengers and have to register a credit card. All charges beyond what's included in the BVE are charged to that account.

[PescadoAmarillo]

Happy (thrilled really) to see salmon back on the embarkation day menu!

[suejoe]

Thanks for the BVE review. We are doing the BVE on Royal next Saturday (10/11) and can't wait! How early did you get to the pier?

Susan

[sunsetbeachgal]

Sounds like great fun!

Especially in New York, where are you going to get a meal and afternoon like that for $39?!

[kendon]

Thanks for the BVE review. We are doing the BVE on Royal next Saturday (10/11) and can't wait! How early did you get to the pier?

Susan

 

We got to the pier at 10:45. After a special BVE check in we went through security and then onto the standard lines for your cruise card. We were then told to sit it a special area until 11:30 when the CC hostess then escorted us onto the ship.

[Topo Gigio]

Is it also available for the Regal Princess?

[BDRebel]

It is open on all ships. The only way I can see to get reservations is to call the 800 number for princess.