Help Deciding on Upgrading to Haven

[taylortime05]

I have a bid in to upgrade from Balcony to a Haven on Escape in Nov. I am considering just purchasing the upgrade.

 

Right now I have 2 perks - Beverage package and Pre Paid Gratuities and a great rate on the balcony at 799 PP. If I go with Haven I will lose the Pre Paid Gratuities but get the other 4 perks. The price difference is 2499 to 799 but NCL is also offering 600 OBC.

 

How is the Haven Restaurant for dinner? I purchased the 6 night dining package but if I go with the Haven I will get the 3 night package.

 

I know this is subjective but overall taking into account the extra perks and OBC the difference in my cost is about 2200. This includes me still purchasing the SPA package. Is one week in the Haven worth 2200 extra dollars? Please tell me why it's so wonderful.

[nhtravels]

I was on the fence like you! I've never cruised NCL so had not much point of reference. But yesterday NCL doubled the OBC offered, so for my Haven upgrade the doubled OBC went from $300 to $600. So I did upgrade direct. I went from a M9 (Spa Mini-suite) to a (H9) Haven Spa Balcony and ended up with 4 perks instead of 2, plus my OBC went from the $140 (which I would have gotten for the mini-suite to $600. (It was $300 for the Haven when I booked.

 

HTH!

[taylortime05]

I was on the fence like you! I've never cruised NCL so had not much point of reference. But yesterday NCL doubled the OBC offered, so for my Haven upgrade the doubled OBC went from $300 to $600. So I did upgrade direct. I went from a M9 (Spa Mini-suite) to a (H9) Haven Spa Balcony and ended up with 4 perks instead of 2, plus my OBC went from the $140 (which I would have gotten for the mini-suite to $600. (It was $300 for the Haven when I booked.

 

HTH!

 

I am having such a hard time deciding. I'm actually on the phone with my TA to figure out all the differences in prices & perks. I almost moved to a SPA Haven balcony in July because NCL had the 300 OBC and my TA had pre paid gratuities plus 600 OBC. It sounded like such a good deal but the TA would not give me the extra perks unless I cancelled the reservation and paid 125 and rebook. I was so frustrated I just said forget it. I probably should have just went ahead at that time.

 

If NCL will let me move and if my TA will give me extra OBC (300 instead of original 100) then I think I will do it. I am probably going with the Haven Courtyard and purchasing the SPA package to save a little money (2499 vs 2999).

 

The reason that this is tough is I'm going from a really inexpensive trip at 799 PP in balcony to quite expensive at 2499 PP in Haven. But I want to try the Haven so bad. If I bid I don't think I would come out too much cheaper and it's driving me crazy waiting.

 

Congratulations on your upgrade. :)

[nhtravels]

Good luck on your decision!! Keep us posted!

[ColeThornton]

 

The reason that this is tough is I'm going from a really inexpensive trip at 799 PP in balcony to quite expensive at 2499 PP in Haven. But I want to try the Haven so bad. If I bid I don't think I would come out too much cheaper and it's driving me crazy waiting.

 

 

Personally, for that much difference I would stick with a balcony. For that much more money per person that translates to paying for another cruise with the money you would save. Remember for the Haven you also will have to budget tips for the Butler and the Concierge.

[susique]

I may be wrong, but I thought I read that if you win a upgrade bid you keep the perks you originally picked and do not get what is offered if you purchased that cabin. You would still get the perks for the suite.

[nhtravels]

OP is considering just purchasing the upgrade direct (paying the difference). That is ultimately what I did myself yesterday instead of waiting on a potential upgrade bid. This way we get all the promos and the additional OBC being offered by NCL currently.

[garycarla]

I may be wrong, but I thought I read that if you win a upgrade bid you keep the perks you originally picked and do not get what is offered if you purchased that cabin. You would still get the perks for the suite.

 

Sort of.

 

You get all the perks that come with the suite.

You do not get the promos that come with booking a suite.

You take the promos that you rec'd from booking the balcony or mini-suite if you move up via the upgrade bid program.

 

If you outright BUY an upgrade (not bid), you get whatever the CURRENT promos that are available.

 

Think of perks as fixed items, and promos as things like OBC, Free at Sea, etc.

[Pappion]

To answer one of your questions in the original post, the Haven Restaurant is pretty good. We ate there twice last cruise on nights we didn't have the dining package and found the meal to be as good as(and in one case better than) any specialty venue.

 

We always were content cruising in a balcony room, and January I won the bid to get a Haven Spa Suite. If you aren't concerned with being in the Haven itself, this may be the room for you. You get Haven access, and Spa access. Both were just a short walk away (at least on the Getaway). My husband felt guilty asking the Butler for anything the first day or two, but then found the treats he left to be something to look forward to when we returned from port. Did we NEED the Haven to make it a great vacation, no. But would we book it again? Absolutely if the price is right and in our budget. Other posters have mentioned rolling in the dough or just wanting to feel special. Well who doesn't want to feel special?, and if you work hard all year and want to spend your cash on a little extra splurge, that is your business.

 

As for is it really worth it? If you sometimes skip a port, or find the ship to be the destination in itself, YES. DH and I enjoy spending time in the hot tubs or pool area. Sometimes it can be overly crowded (especially on sea days) and finding a lounger or spot in the hot tub isn't easy. Never had that issue in the Haven. Yes, on our sailing there was one family with unruly kids, but it was far better than the 30 unruly kids at the other pool area. Always had a quiet place to relax, and the spa was nice to use as well.

 

So I guess, if you're looking for a quiet relaxing atmosphere, the Haven can be worth it. If you're ok with the normal cruise experience, no it isn't worth the extra $.

[san92103]

go with Haven. If you want the 'stress' and 'care' free experience and the luxury cruise exclusivity... HAVEN. You're buying access, but it's worth it. My wife and I enjoy the vibe in the regular pool area, but, deepy appreciate the ability to disconnect and relax in a tranquil environment (we're 30). the Haven may be for people willing to throw down more money, but, having done both 'regular' stateroom and haven. There is no contest.

 

Two years ago to present we did our first haven cruise (Jade, Penthouse from Venice eastern Med) and we STILL talk about it!! Want cagneys steak on white linen in your room? Done. Want champagne brought up to your exclusive sun deck? Done. Oh, walking around the ship and want your room steward to close your blinds or double check you closed the balcony (etc...)? That's done, too. Just call on your personal phone.

 

We decided that we'd rather cruise less frequently, but in Haven, than more frequently and in non-Haven. We view it as a special event, rather than a hobby of frequent cruising. Not that there's anything wrong with it. Just our personal decision.

[Theodorable]

I had a spa balcony for our upcoming trans Atlantic with the beverage package and the free gratuities. I upgraded to the Haven spa suite and kept my fee gratuities along with the increased perks that come with the Haven. I bought the upgrade, I did not use the bidding process. Confirmation of my free suite gratuities is shown on my booking.....! Maybe I was just lucky. I also got some hefty onboard credit as well...:D

[April42749]

It depends on your priorities. We were offered the Haven a few cruises ago for about $2500 total. The issue was....we are not eaters (especially me). We do not want afternoon snacks or special meal service. I drink water and almond milk, and sometimes iced tea. That's it. (Diet for health issues....45 lbs lighter and in perfect health!) In addition, I don't know what I'd do with a butler; I'm a "do it myself" person and I can find the theater without an escort.

 

It had nothing to do with cost....it was all based on "want and need".

 

If it included something I could actually use....like a daily massage or facial....maybe I would have considered it.

 

So, we bought me a diamond ring instead and stayed in our balcony.

 

You do what's right for you. Look at all the variables and then decide.

[DMH15]

To answer one of your questions in the original post, the Haven Restaurant is pretty good. We ate there twice last cruise on nights we didn't have the dining package and found the meal to be as good as(and in one case better than) any specialty venue.

 

We always were content cruising in a balcony room, and January I won the bid to get a Haven Spa Suite. If you aren't concerned with being in the Haven itself, this may be the room for you. You get Haven access, and Spa access. Both were just a short walk away (at least on the Getaway). My husband felt guilty asking the Butler for anything the first day or two, but then found the treats he left to be something to look forward to when we returned from port. Did we NEED the Haven to make it a great vacation, no. But would we book it again? Absolutely if the price is right and in our budget. Other posters have mentioned rolling in the dough or just wanting to feel special. Well who doesn't want to feel special?, and if you work hard all year and want to spend your cash on a little extra splurge, that is your business.

 

As for is it really worth it? If you sometimes skip a port, or find the ship to be the destination in itself, YES. DH and I enjoy spending time in the hot tubs or pool area. Sometimes it can be overly crowded (especially on sea days) and finding a lounger or spot in the hot tub isn't easy. Never had that issue in the Haven. Yes, on our sailing there was one family with unruly kids, but it was far better than the 30 unruly kids at the other pool area. Always had a quiet place to relax, and the spa was nice to use as well.

 

So I guess, if you're looking for a quiet relaxing atmosphere, the Haven can be worth it. If you're ok with the normal cruise experience, no it isn't worth the extra $.

 

 

 

Wow! Someone with a sensible answer... who knew?

 

My sarcasm means this: I like your answer. I can only imagine meeting you on a cruise you would be a nice fun person.

 

 

 

 

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[sverigecruiser]

How is the Haven Restaurant for dinner? I purchased the 6 night dining package but if I go with the Haven I will get the 3 night package.

 

 

We use the Haven restaurant a lot. We eat breakfast there every day, lunch most days and dinner at least 4-5 times during a week long cruise.

 

Excellent food and excellent service.

[san92103]

There is a good YouTube video by Jim Zimmerman entitled something to the effect of haven and non haven comparison. Just watch it and man... you’ll quickly agree.

 

If you’re a penny pincher then Haven is not for you. If you want a treat for a infrequent vacation, do it. It’s not all 1% up there. Most of it is honeymooners, families who take advantage of third l/ fourth go free or “rich” people. Our latest cruise had many neighbors on the third/fourth go free.

 

 

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[Two Wheels Only]

There is a good YouTube video by Jim Zimmerman entitled something to the effect of haven and non haven comparison.

It's Jim Zimmerlin. He also posts here on CC as "Spaniel Lover"

 

His channel has lots of videos of different cruise-lines and ships.

[Hearthosesteeldrumsplayin]

Okay, we are not the "rolling in dough" people (I'd be on Regent if that were the case....), but we like to cruise 1-2 times a year. My DH works very hard, so wants to decompress when we go on vacation. Neither of us are sun worshipers. The Haven has been a haven for us. Priority boarding, smaller area for relaxing that doesn't have throngs of people, larger cabins, beverages and snacks out during the day, it is a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere without the hub-bub. I didn't think I would use/like a butler, either, but boy, what a blessing a good one is! We enjoy eating in our cabin at least once during the cruise and NCL does it right (paying attention, RCCL?) And I will say that when we were on the Escape, we were very happy with the Haven restaurant.....in fact, some of the entrees offered were the same as what you would find in the specialty restaurants. No need to upgrade dining if you don't want to---it would take about a week to eat through the menu choices.

There are certainly lots of factors that are personal in your decision to Haven or not. I could not get my DH on a cruise in a regular cabin any more....he has trouble hearing and the noise, etc., just frustrates him to no end. And he likes the additional space. We even like to dress up, so usually have more luggage than most, and the Haven has space for those extra clothes and bags. So, it comes down to what YOU consider important and what priorities YOU have for YOUR vacation. For us, we will cruise less often and pay for the Haven. And who doesn't like to feel pampered?

Enjoy your cruise, no matter which way you go! Its YOUR time!

[garycarla]

There is a good YouTube video by Jim Zimmerman entitled something to the effect of haven and non haven comparison. Just watch it and man... you’ll quickly agree.

...

 

Not sure if this is the same video, but this one appears to be the DOS or OS - those and the Garden Villa I think are the only ones with their own outdoor hot tub. The other Haven rooms do not have that.

 

[kitty-sail]

There are often threads that pop up here like "Is the Haven Worth It?". I often chuckle at the responses, especially if the person asking is just married, big anniversary, etc. A high number of folks answer with: "Yes, book it", or something along those lines. Only way to go, etc.

 

Is it worth it? One be hard pressed to justify spending an extra $4-$5,000 for the perks. But, folks do book it because they WANT it or just plain have lots of money, or don't care even if they don't -LOL!

 

Less than 5% of the total rooms are suites/haven and are almost always available a few months before most cruises. People book other rooms. That is the real answer.

 

You're right. Balconies are the most preferred room choice. They are priced right for an affordable vacation. Haven is quite expensive and a big jump in cost.

[san92103]

That’s definitely a good one. But this one:

 

 

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[realcindylouwho]

Okay, we are not the "rolling in dough" people (I'd be on Regent if that were the case....), but we like to cruise 1-2 times a year. My DH works very hard, so wants to decompress when we go on vacation. Neither of us are sun worshipers. The Haven has been a haven for us. Priority boarding, smaller area for relaxing that doesn't have throngs of people, larger cabins, beverages and snacks out during the day, it is a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere without the hub-bub. I didn't think I would use/like a butler, either, but boy, what a blessing a good one is! We enjoy eating in our cabin at least once during the cruise and NCL does it right (paying attention, RCCL?) And I will say that when we were on the Escape, we were very happy with the Haven restaurant.....in fact, some of the entrees offered were the same as what you would find in the specialty restaurants. No need to upgrade dining if you don't want to---it would take about a week to eat through the menu choices.

There are certainly lots of factors that are personal in your decision to Haven or not. I could not get my DH on a cruise in a regular cabin any more....he has trouble hearing and the noise, etc., just frustrates him to no end. And he likes the additional space. We even like to dress up, so usually have more luggage than most, and the Haven has space for those extra clothes and bags. So, it comes down to what YOU consider important and what priorities YOU have for YOUR vacation. For us, we will cruise less often and pay for the Haven. And who doesn't like to feel pampered?

Enjoy your cruise, no matter which way you go! Its YOUR time!

So we don't think completely alike, but so many of your reasons are the reasons why we cruise in suites and on a big ship like the Getaway, the Haven is a must. Here are a few of our reasons why we would choose haven:

1): Our jobs are to make our "customers" happy and if for one week a year we get to be at the center of attention, we are going to go for it and it starts at embarkation! *Here is our latest not special embarkation though...We have usually booked on the Getaway out of Miami on deck 16 but this January 2017 we decided to forgo the scraping of deck chairs at 6:00 a.m. waking us up and booked a one BR H5 on deck 15. Because of this we boarded from the B terminal insead of the C terminal. Our embarkation was in a tiny little 36" wall, partitioned off area where everyone else was looking at us like caged animals in a zoo. So, it was very much not special when they announced for us to line up and to board. A bunch of non-haven cruisers jumped into line with us and the NCL employees gave up trying to seperate the Haven from non-haven and just let everyone in the line go. Grrrr....this caused a mess at the elevators and confusion for the first-time cruisers. Anyway, rant about this over!

2). We are drinkers and LOVE the Haven bar. I mean we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the Haven bar. Hubby drinks Jack and the bar will go through bottles on just my husband alone. That specific cruise week, we asked the bartender if she had ever gone through THAT MUCH Jack Daniels and she said "NO!" It was quite a week! Whatever you ask for, they will make it for you. If you drink one specific drink, like my hubby does, when they see you walk up the pour will automatically begin. You don't need to tell them what you want to order. We always provide a nice thank you card (which we pack at least 10-12 of pre-cruise) and provide a nice cash tip the last evening of the cruise. This is our experience, yours may vary.

3). We love the priority/front of the line port tendering/getting off the ship. We don't want to wake up a minute earlier than we have to on vacation. Having this service available if we want it is a great benefit.

4). The food at the Haven restaurant is great. I do the majority of the cooking at home and infrequently eat outside of the house. I love being able to sit down at breakfast and lunch and have someone wait on me. White linens, coffe cups and saucers, a cloth napkin, these are indulgences I don't often partake in during my everyday librarian life. Yes, there have been cutbacks in the past ten years since we started cruising, but I feel very lucky to be sitting in a chair, that someone has pushed in for me as I sat, being order to have multiple choices for breakfast or lunch and not having to plan the meal. purchase the food at the grocery store, or cook the food.

4). We aren't sun people, but I do like to catch some rays in the mid to late afternoon with my OWN choice of music or NOT music and I want relative quiet and don't want to have to pick up some long forgotten towel or lunch plates or drink glasses from the lounge area. I know I can walk up the stairs to the Haven sun deck at 4 p.m. and have my pick of nearly any lounger I want. I don't want to have to deal with adult drunks or non-supervised kids running around. It might also have something to do with the time of year we cruise, but we almost always have very few children on our cruises. We typically cruise the week after Thanksgiving, but our last cruise was in late January and there were not many kids booked in the Haven. (So much more to this story and the week we cruised, the third week of January. I won't go into it here but those who are in the know, know that "that group of super imposing, pushy, noisey, demanding, loud, and sometime very obnoxious east coast Americans" have a "holiday" from school the last two weeks of January. We still had a fabuous time on our cruise!)

5). I like to get off the ship as late as I can. Since we have to fly half-way across the country to get to the ocean, NCL must almost force me off the ship. We can be packed up, pull our luggage to a common area and then have a nice leasurely breakfast. This allows the steward to be able to have access to our cabin and get it flipped for the next lucky guests. We then meet the conceirge or their helper at the desk and they escort us quickly off the ship, usually by an employee elevator. When the doors open and we are placed back into the long line to exit the terminal into customs, we begin the dream for our next cruise.

 

I am perfectly human and am jealous of the guests who are able to less costly get into a suite with the current bidding program, since we book at full fare and choose the suite that we wish, usually when the dates become available up to two years in advance. But as a previous "upsell fairy" to the Garden Villa at a deep discount price back in the day, I understand the changes NCL had to make. Your vacation dollars are yours to decide how to spend. Gather information, mull it over and make your best guess as to what is correct for you! Enjoy the blessing to be able to cruise, no matter the cabin!!!

[kitty-sail]

Have stayed in Balconies, Mini-suites, Suites and Haven. I enjoy MS on the smaller ships because its simple to move around. I prefer the Haven on the newer much larger ships to avoid the crowds. It seems cumbersome to get thru MDR, pool or shows on large ships.

[dexddd]

Not sure if this is the same video, but this one appears to be the DOS or OS - those and the Garden Villa I think are the only ones with their own outdoor hot tub. The other Haven rooms do not have that.

 

 

 

That is a DOS on one of the Jewel class ships.

[BostonGal35]

when you upgrade, you keep the perks you got at booking. you do NOT get different/extra perks.

[garycarla]

when you upgrade, you keep the perks you got at booking. you do NOT get different/extra perks.

 

You might want to use the word promotions in the above answer.

 

You still get the perks that come with a suite such as butler, concierge, priority boarding, eating in haven restaurant for breakfast/lunch.