Low-Key Young Professional - Clueless But Curious & Looking For Insight :)

[thatb0yadamh]

Hello, everyone!

 

WOW - I've just stumbled onto this site in the midst of my research and fact finding, and what a wealth of information it is indeed! I'm excited to spend my day perusing the wealth of information already on the forum!

 

A bit about me...

 

I'm a 25 y/o, self employed gay young professional from Toronto, Canada who loves to travel every chance I get! While Las Vegas is my "go to" vacation destination, I've decided to broaden my horizons and feel that as a solo traveller, cruising will offer me a great value and a wealth of opportunities to make new friends in my travels!

 

With all said, I'm clueless about destinations and cruise lines and in the dizzying array of brochures and slick websites I'm a bit overwhelmed with choices. At the moment, I'm looking at cruises sometime in either July or August (flexible dates) but a bit unsure of where or what line may suit me best.

 

My ideal vacation...

 

I'm pretty low key, and on a typcial vacation you'd be likely to find me

 

- Enjoying a martini or glass of wine

- Relaxing by a pool with a book and sangria

- Sleeping in

- Enjoying a massage at a spa and relaxing in the hot tub

- Having high tea, followed by a fine dining experience for dinner

 

So, that's to say, I'm not much one for loud clubs or parties or a 24/7 agenda LOL!

 

Options I'm considering...

 

Based on my research thus far, it looks like the summer season is a bit more limited for warm destinations, so I'm looking at either the Eastern Caribbean (NCL Getaway) or Bermuda (Celebrity Summit).

 

Budget-wise, I'm rather flexible but wouldn't want to have my cruise fare go above the $2000 mark for a 7-day voyage.

 

Given it's studio staterooms and lounge, as well as the attractive price offered, NCL seems like it may be an ideal choice for me!

 

My burning questions...

 

Given that I'm totally new to the world of cruise vacations, in addition to everyone's insights (both from travellers similar to myself, and those who prefer a different type of cruise experience!) I'd love any expertise you may have around

 

1) Getting the best rate - so far, I've simply called the cruise lines and gotten a straight quote and itinerary suggestions. I'm presuming that this may not be the best avenue to get extras/a good deal, and would love your suggestions on agency or websites to book through.

 

2) Destinations - as I said, I'm *completely* open here, so as long as it's somewhere warm, and the departure port isn't too out of reach from Toronto.

 

3) Cruise lines - I'm quite low key and do have "champagne taste" if you will, but at the same time would appreciate a vessel with other young(er) passengers; as such I'm a bit hesitant to explore options such as Cunard, Crystal, Holland America, etc. The idea of a single supplement also isn't particularly attractive to me, which most of these lines seem to charge. I likely wouldn't wish to have a roommate assigned to me.

 

4) Embarkation - I'm looking through the site, but can anyone provide a brief idea or link where I can understand how the process of loading onto and getting checked into the ship works? I'm picturing an absolute GONGSHOW!

 

5) Onboard billing/payment - Is cash typically accepted on board? I presume that I will have an account for the duration of my voyage which I settle either before disembarking or following the cruise? Are these typically paid via credit card or similar?

 

6) Connectivity - Given the nature of my business (branding, web design, and digital marketing), 24/7 connectivity is absolutely crucial. What experiences has everyone had with the on board WiFi packages? Are there other options to staying connected on board?

 

I'm looking forward to getting to know many of you here on the forums, and quickly advancing from "cruising newbie" to "cruising afficionado"!

[psbtrvlr]

Hello, everyone!

 

 

1) Getting the best rate - so far, I've simply called the cruise lines and gotten a straight quote and itinerary suggestions. I'm presuming that this may not be the best avenue to get extras/a good deal, and would love your suggestions on agency or websites to book through. We are not allowed to discuss travel agencies/agents, or websites on Cruise Critic

 

2) Destinations - as I said, I'm *completely* open here, so as long as it's somewhere warm, and the departure port isn't too out of reach from Toronto.

 

3) Cruise lines - I'm quite low key and do have "champagne taste" if you will, but at the same time would appreciate a vessel with other young(er) passengers; as such I'm a bit hesitant to explore options such as Cunard, Crystal, Holland America, etc. The idea of a single supplement also isn't particularly attractive to me, which most of these lines seem to charge. I likely wouldn't wish to have a roommate assigned to me.

 

4) Embarkation - I'm looking through the site, but can anyone provide a brief idea or link where I can understand how the process of loading onto and getting checked into the ship works? I'm picturing an absolute GONGSHOW! Similar to an airplane loading

 

5) Onboard billing/payment - Is cash typically accepted on board? I presume that I will have an account for the duration of my voyage which I settle either before disembarking or following the cruise? Are these typically paid via credit card or similar? Cash is not accepted, however you can set up your onboard account with cash.

 

6) Connectivity - Given the nature of my business (branding, web design, and digital marketing), 24/7 connectivity is absolutely crucial. What experiences has everyone had with the on board WiFi packages? Are there other options to staying connected on board? Very expensive, and very slow

 

I'm looking forward to getting to know many of you here on the forums, and quickly advancing from "cruising newbie" to "cruising afficionado"!

 

See above

[Cruising Golfer]

It looks like you are off to a good start!!! You have come to the right place and everyone here is happy to help.

You have asked some very good questions and I would like to give my two cents, although it is just my opinion...:D

I think NCL is a good choice for the more calm people, not a lot of drunkenness as on say Carnival. We did like Celebrity also.

As for rates you can check on-line or just call, it is mostly the same price either way. Being your first cruise I would say call and let them guide you with your needs.

Wi-Fi is a little pricey with not the best service.

Embarkation varies from port to port, but is never really that bad, maybe an hour to complete and to be on board.

Cash or Credit Card is the best way to pay... NEVER use a debit card as the holds they put on can screw things up!!!

All that said Welcome to our little corner of the world and don't try to take in too much at one time. Learn as you go and you will be fine.

Ask anything here and someone will be able to guide you.

Enjoy and plan on getting hooked!!! :cool:

[calliopecruiser]

You may want to look at Crystal because of their very low single supplement - when you do the math, you might find that their all inclusive with a lower single supplement is not a lot more than a mainstream line, and you get luxury service, food, and surroundings. I liked that because it also indicated to me that I was not an "add on" type of passenger and would be treated well by the line whether alone or as part of a pair - and that mattered to me. That said, there aren't a lot of people under 35 on board, and most are over 60.....but age doesn't bother me, and I've met wonderful people to chat and dine with who were 20 years younger and 20 years older than me. YMMV.

 

Connectivity will depend a lot on the ship and location; I've done both transpacific and transatlantics and had pretty good internet service. Consider the cost though - if you know it's something you're going to spend on, put it all in your calculations (is laundry extra? drinks? soda pop? "specialty" restaurants? gratuities? sauna and gym? etc).

 

Embarkation will vary with the size of the ship and the cruiseline. Basically, though, you hand off your luggage to be loaded on board and proceed through security to get your on-board swipe card, which acts as a door key for your cabin as well as a "charge to your cabin" id card. How long all of that takes will depend - 15 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the size of the ship, the passenger load, and the cruise line. Usually you have to wait until a proscribed time to go to your cabin, where your bags will be waiting - that's to allow the staff to get everything loaded and sorted.

 

Are you wanting a port-intensive cruise or a cruise with lots of sea days? That may make a difference to your planning - if you're going to be off the ship most days, you may not care much about the ship or what it offers; on the other hand, if you are on board for many days, you might want to pay more attention to things like shipboard service and available activities, entertainment, etc.

 

I'm a huge Crystal fan because of the lower solo supplement and wonderful service (I've experienced a lot of bad service because I've been solo, so it's nice to be treated just like everyone else), and the excellent food. I also like the "all inclusive" feel.....it's a feeling of freedom for me not to have to sign for things all the time (even if the actual cost isn't an issue), and there's no atmosphere of trying to sell you things, or up-sell you to something more pricey.

[NMLady]

The studio cabins on the newest NCL ships are probably your best budget options since other cabin prices presume double occupancy. That means singles pay double the quoted fare, occasionally 150% instead of the 200%.

So, when comparing prices, make sure you ask what the fare for a single is.

 

Some travel agents will offer OBC (onboard credit) as a perk, taking it out of their commission.

 

When choosing a travel agent ask if they charge for changes or cancellation. Some do. Also know that if you have a Travel Agent you can only deal then with that agent, not directly with the cruise line.

[cb at sea]

The "luxury" lines that would suit your "champagne" tastes will not have the youthful ambiance and fun you're looking for.

 

The mass market lines will not have the "champagne" tastes you're looking for...

 

And in truth, none of the cruise lines will equal the Vegas experience....I'm being honest! You get wonderful hotel rooms in Vegas, and many of the restaurants can't be beat....

 

Ship cabins are teensy, in comparison, and the food...unless you're on a "luxury" line, expect Applebee's quality, for the most part. Once in a while, if you pay extra for a specialty restaurant, you may get something approaching Morton's or Ruth Chris, but that's rare.

 

Cruises are fun, but they aren't like Vegas!!

[wwcruisers]

Sounds like you might enjoy Celebrity. :cool:

 

But, in response to your question about getting the best deal: we are not allowed to name travel agents (or agencies) here on CC. :o We can answer more generic questions, e.g.: whether we prefer going through a TA (and why), or booking directly through the cruiseline.

[Honolulu Blue]

Welcome to our little site. It's obvious you've thought a lot about your future cruise. That's great; it puts you well ahead of most everyone else. I'll try to respond to some of your points:

 

* I actually think the cruising experience is a lot like my LV experiences.

* Cruise passengers tend to skew toward middle-age + hetero couples. The exact balance depends on the cruise, but be sure to keep it in mind.

* I'd rather go to Toronto than the Caribbean in July or August, but that's just me.

* $2000 is reachable for a 7-day cruise on most lines if you're willing to settle for an inside or ocean view cabin. Actually, my first three cruises were about $2k total, but I tend to work the discounts harder than you're likely to want to.

 

My burning questions...

 

Given that I'm totally new to the world of cruise vacations, in addition to everyone's insights (both from travellers similar to myself, and those who prefer a different type of cruise experience!) I'd love any expertise you may have around

 

1) Getting the best rate - so far, I've simply called the cruise lines and gotten a straight quote and itinerary suggestions. I'm presuming that this may not be the best avenue to get extras/a good deal, and would love your suggestions on agency or websites to book through.

 

2) Destinations - as I said, I'm *completely* open here, so as long as it's somewhere warm, and the departure port isn't too out of reach from Toronto.

 

3) Cruise lines - I'm quite low key and do have "champagne taste" if you will, but at the same time would appreciate a vessel with other young(er) passengers; as such I'm a bit hesitant to explore options such as Cunard, Crystal, Holland America, etc. The idea of a single supplement also isn't particularly attractive to me, which most of these lines seem to charge. I likely wouldn't wish to have a roommate assigned to me.

 

4) Embarkation - I'm looking through the site, but can anyone provide a brief idea or link where I can understand how the process of loading onto and getting checked into the ship works? I'm picturing an absolute GONGSHOW!

 

5) Onboard billing/payment - Is cash typically accepted on board? I presume that I will have an account for the duration of my voyage which I settle either before disembarking or following the cruise? Are these typically paid via credit card or similar?

 

6) Connectivity - Given the nature of my business (branding, web design, and digital marketing), 24/7 connectivity is absolutely crucial. What experiences has everyone had with the on board WiFi packages? Are there other options to staying connected on board?

 

I'm looking forward to getting to know many of you here on the forums, and quickly advancing from "cruising newbie" to "cruising afficionado"!

 

1) If you haven't already done so, you should do some looking at the cruise lines' Web sites. Their pretty pictures and FAQs will give you a better idea of what to expect.

2) I would humbly suggest San Juan as an embarkation port. First, I think the Eastern Caribbean islands are more interesting than the ones out West. Second, many of the departures from SJ are late, so you can spend more time on the ship at the start of your journey. And third, I think the crowd is a bit younger. You're going to have a long flight to any embarkation port, so good luck with that.

3) I'll stay away from specific cruise line recommendations. All my cruises have been on Carnival, and they've suited my needs well so far, but I don't know how good of a match they would be for you. They're distinctly mainstream.

4) Embarkation in 100 words or less: Fill out the paperwork online. Give your checked luggage to the porter. Follow the signs to check in. Take a picture. Check in. Take another picture. Get your card. Go through security and go to your cabin or get something to eat. Unpack.

5) Cash is generally accepted only for the casino and cash tips (mostly for room service). You may want some cash for the stores in port. Your account will generally be hooked to a credit/debit card, though you can use cash deposits.

6) The stories I've heard about Internet access at sea are pretty scary - slow, erratic, and expensive. Some lines are trying to improve things.

 

Some sub-boards that may be of help to you:

 

Gay & Lesbian Cruisers: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=162

Singles Cruises: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=139

Solo Cruisers: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=373

Bermuda: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=196

Caribbean: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=587

 

Have fun on your cruise. Be sure to give us a trip report.

[Essiesmom]

I would think Celebrity a good place, the Summit to Bermuda. Some sea days to find your way around the ship, a couple of days to explore a beautiful island. There will be some younger people onboard, although the may be accompanied by small children...Summit is one of the M (Millennium) class of ships in Celebrity's fleet. I think you might really like the S (Solstice) class, but in the summer, one is in Alaska and the other four are in Europe.

As for savings on bookings, go to the websites of each/all of the cruise lines and sign up for their email/snail mail specials. Celebrity and Royal caribbean have online Tuesday specials:

http://www.creative.rccl.com/Sales/Exciting_Deals/XcitingDeals_cel_tues.pdf

 

http://www.creative.rccl.com/Sales/Royal/Multi_Dest/Special_Offers/rci_sales_event.pdf

[spookwife]

Hello, everyone!

 

 

1) Getting the best rate - so far, I've simply called the cruise lines and gotten a straight quote and itinerary suggestions. I'm presuming that this may not be the best avenue to get extras/a good deal, and would love your suggestions on agency or websites to book through. while we cannot discuss TAs here, simply do some basic research online. things to ask: do they charge a fee to make ay changes and what extars are they willing to kick in, keeping in mind that the price for the cabin is usually not allowed to be discounted.

 

2) Destinations - as I said, I'm *completely* open here, so as long as it's somewhere warm, and the departure port isn't too out of reach from Toronto. look at driving to Bayonne or even Baltimore if airfare to FL( where many cruises originate ) is prohibitive

 

3) Cruise lines - I'm quite low key and do have "champagne taste" if you will, but at the same time would appreciate a vessel with other young(er) passengers; as such I'm a bit hesitant to explore options such as Cunard, Crystal, Holland America, etc. The idea of a single supplement also isn't particularly attractive to me, which most of these lines seem to charge. I likely wouldn't wish to have a roommate assigned to me. they don;lt make you bunk with anyone. NCL and the newest class of Royal ships have single cabins but honestly sometimes it is cheaper to just pay the surcharge, get the double points and the extra room

 

4) Embarkation - I'm looking through the site, but can anyone provide a brief idea or link where I can understand how the process of loading onto and getting checked into the ship works? I'm picturing an absolute GONGSHOW! very similar to checking ion for a flight. same security protocols. while they may start letting people check in as early as 9 or 10 am, actual boarding does not begin until noon for the most part. so if you don't want to spend hours waiting, just plan on arriving later, keeping in mind you must be ON BOARD 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure.

 

5) Onboard billing/payment - Is cash typically accepted on board? I presume that I will have an account for the duration of my voyage which I settle either before disembarking or following the cruise? Are these typically paid via credit card or similar? cashless for all transactions on board except the casino. you may settle the account with cash before departure but the lines on the last night get to be pretty dang long smart people secure it with a credit card( NOT a debit card) and then use cash to pay it off or down if that is what they desire

 

6) Connectivity - Given the nature of my business (branding, web design, and digital marketing), 24/7 connectivity is absolutely crucial. What experiences has everyone had with the on board WiFi packages? Are there other options to staying connected on board? only if you are willing to pay for it..and it will be dial up speed, and if you absolutely must be connected 24/7 or the world ends, cruising is NOT for you

 

 

 

go to your local auto travel club(usually the first entry in the dictionary) and avail yourself of their vacation services.

[Sauer-kraut]

Just a thought, since you are in Toronto how about taking the Breakaway out of NYC to Bermuda. Your travel expenses will be less than flying all the way to Miami.

 

Bermuda is a great place, the ship "parks" for 3 days and you get to see Bermuda without the high price of the hotels there. Public transport and ferries will get you around and then there are the beaches!

 

The Breakaway will also have Studio cabins although not as many as on the EPIC. The new NCL ships offer a sort of Vegas "feel" with their multiple shows and eating places. NCL is very gay friendly as well.

[cruisead]

Is there any reason why you're limiting yourself to just those two ships/destinations? I can't recommend NCL, despite their Studio cabins because that line, and having champagne tastes just doesn't mesh. While NCL is budget friendly, as with all things, you get what you pay for. NCL will also be loaded with kids.

 

Celebrity is a VERY gay friendly cruise line. You might want to check out the Gay and Lesbian Forum here on Cruise Critic. The Summit has a wonderful martini bar and other lounges for music and dancing. The food and service are very good and their alternate specialty restaurants are excellent. Three days in Bermuda are a real plus.

 

Wifi/internet on any ship is not great. Very slow and expensive. Service can be spotty, also. You can get unlimited internet on Celebrity for $299. But expect modem speed, or maybe just a bit faster. You can find free wifi at places in Bermuda.

 

Cruise lines are totally cashless on board except for the casino. When you check in, you present a credit card to back your purchases. On the morning you disembark the ship, you can pay your final bill with cash, but it's just easier to keep everything on the credit card.

 

Embarking on the first day isn't all that bad, especially on a smaller ship like Summit. You find your way to the cruise terminal, give your luggage to the porters, walk into the cruise terminal, go through security screening, and follow the signs to the desk where you present your passport or birth certificate and photo ID, and your credit card. The check in staff will give you your sign and sail card (which is your cabin key and the card you use for all on board purchases), they will take your picture for security purposes and then you'll be directed to the gangway where you'll board the ship. It's nothing too insane.

 

Have a great cruise.

[searoses]

Love bermuda....love the summit class of ship...celebrity is a bit more upscale......being in bermuda for several days a good way to get the feel of cruising without having to do the planning for multiple islands....leaving from near nyc gives you the chance to pre or post there for a couple of days.... .be sure to find the ports of call board to learn more and join your roll call to meet a few people before you go...enjoy and you won't be sorry you picked bermuda!

[George C]

as just said I agree Celebrity is a more upscale line , may have a better time relaxing by the pool. Celebrity is almost entirely smoke free which may be good or bad for you. Also I dislike anytime dinning, Celebrity offers a choice of anytime of a set time we set waiters

[Winnigirl]

The studio cabins on the newest NCL ships are probably your best budget options since other cabin prices presume double occupancy. That means singles pay double the quoted fare, occasionally 150% instead of the 200%.

So, when comparing prices, make sure you ask what the fare for a single is.

 

Some travel agents will offer OBC (onboard credit) as a perk, taking it out of their commission.

 

When choosing a travel agent ask if they charge for changes or cancellation. Some do. Also know that if you have a Travel Agent you can only deal then with that agent, not directly with the cruise line.

 

Hello and welcome! Last year I booked a studio cabin for my 29 year old daughter. She is a lawyer who had a trial cancelled and wanted a quick, relaxing getaway. I booked her on the Norwegian Epic and she absolutely raved about the studio cabins. NCL makes a real effort to see that singles enjoy themselves - along with the studios, single passengers have access to their own private "den". They have a table at dinner and opportunity to book excursions together. Nothing is "obligatory". You can come and go as you please and choose. She met many nice people and keeps in touch with some of them to this day.

[breeze123]

We needed the unlimited wifi on our last cruise due to my husband being self employed as well. It was slow, but not as painfully slow as some have mentioned. It's not like being on land, but it will work for your business needs and get you through the cruise.

[Dayenu]

Hello, everyone!

 

 

6) Connectivity - Given the nature of my business (branding, web design, and digital marketing), 24/7 connectivity is absolutely crucial. What experiences has everyone had with the on board WiFi packages? Are there other options to staying connected on board?

 

 

Sorry, but don't count on it. Have you tried "all inclusive" vacation?

[angelwinks_ca]

 

Budget-wise, I'm rather flexible but wouldn't want to have my cruise fare go above the $2000 mark for a 7-day voyage.

 

Not only consider the cost of the cruise and flight but added cost will be a hotel the night before if you don't fly in the day of and consider transfer fees!

 

2) Destinations - as I said, I'm *completely* open here, so as long as it's somewhere warm, and the departure port isn't too out of reach from Toronto.

 

We are in Kitchener-Waterloo and have been on 3 cruises. Once we flew out of Toronto, once out of Buffalo and once we drove to South Carolina. Consider flights out of Detroit! Flights seem the cheapest if you don't mind the drive! Closest ports to drive for us would be New York, New Jersey and Baltimore.

 

3) Cruise lines - I'm quite low key and do have "champagne taste" if you will, but at the same time would appreciate a vessel with other young(er) passengers;

 

We've only done Carnival so far. Definitely younger crowd but there was ALWAYS quiet areas for us to escape to!! Not quite a champagne taste cruise line but we loved the low key feel! Booked for Royal Caribbean this August out of Galveston so it will be fun to compare!

 

4) Embarkation - I'm looking through the site, but can anyone provide a brief idea or link where I can understand how the process of loading onto and getting checked into the ship works? I'm picturing an absolute GONGSHOW!

 

I've found some ports are better than others. Miami was awesome compared to South Carolina. I think once you book, the message boards for your port would be the best spot to answer your questions regarding this.

 

6) Connectivity - Given the nature of my business (branding, web design, and digital marketing), 24/7 connectivity is absolutely crucial. What experiences has everyone had with the on board WiFi packages? Are there other options to staying connected on board?

 

We had WIFI once and it was NOT reliable. We only needed it to keep in touch with home. Early morning and late night...not many issues. During the day...forget it!

I'm looking forward to getting to know many of you here on the forums, and quickly advancing from "cruising newbie" to "cruising afficionado"!

 

Many great boards to check out here. Becomes addictive really!! Have fun with your planning!

[reney313]

Hello, everyone!

 

 

My ideal vacation...

 

I'm pretty low key, and on a typcial vacation you'd be likely to find me

 

- Enjoying a martini or glass of wine

- Relaxing by a pool with a book and sangria

- Sleeping in

- Enjoying a massage at a spa and relaxing in the hot tub

- Having high tea, followed by a fine dining experience for dinner

 

So, that's to say, I'm not much one for loud clubs or parties or a 24/7 agenda LOL!

 

Options I'm considering...

 

Based on my research thus far, it looks like the summer season is a bit more limited for warm destinations, so I'm looking at either the Eastern Caribbean (NCL Getaway) or Bermuda (Celebrity Summit).

 

Budget-wise, I'm rather flexible but wouldn't want to have my cruise fare go above the $2000 mark for a 7-day voyage.

 

Given it's studio staterooms and lounge, as well as the attractive price offered, NCL seems like it may be an ideal choice for me!

 

[

 

I'm concerned when I read your points for an ideal vacation and then you have listed NCL Getaway as a potential choice. I like NCL, don't get me wrong. However, their martini bar lacks, I am fairly confident they do not have high tea, and relaxing in the hot tub can be difficult as their hot tubs are generally overflowing with people. I'm not sure that is what you have in mind. NCL is actually the line I choose when I want to party non-stop.

 

I will echo a few comments here--I think Celebrity might be the best fit based upon your desires and cost range. Bermuda is good, but you also might look at their Caribbean itineraries.

 

I know you mentioned warm weather destinations, but in July or August, I think you would be remiss to write off Alaska. On that itinerary, I would look at Princess. They have the ambience you want, you can definitely relax in the hot tubs (even if cool out--they are wonderful at that time--and EMPTY). Princess serves a traditional High Tea and the age on the Alaska route is very diverse. I would not however, recommend Princess for the Caribbean. To me, it is just too boring--although you might find it nice and relaxing--and the age is higher onboard. I found very few younger solo cruisers that you would likely find in Alaska or other cruise lines in the Caribbean/Bermuda.

 

That's just my opinion. I applaud you for researching. I had a few friends return recently from an NCL cruise in the Caribbean. They are in their 30's and had they asked me before they booked their cruise, I would have steered them differently. As expected, they were a little put off by all of the "extras" onboard (dining, entertainment, etc). So many people just go online and look at a few lines and then book without knowing if it will suite their personality.

 

Good luck in your research, I'm sure you will enjoy your first cruise!