First time in Haven. Thoughts and impressions. Bliss/Aft/13906

Hutcha · March 15, 2022

Hi everyone. First off, I apologize if this isn't in an organized format. I'm just sitting down and spewing what comes to mind. 2nd, these are just my opinions. Sorry if I dump on something you really like. I've been on about 13 cruises. This was my first time in anything higher than a balcony. I have three more cruises booked in the next 15 months. Two with all of the kids (14-22), and one with another couple. This cruise was just my wife and I.

The Cabin

We were in an Aft Facing Penthouse, #13906. The room was great! Plenty of storage. Large master bath, with 2 vanities, a large soaking tub and separate shower. The living room felt larger than what the pictures portrayed. The balcony is why you book this room. Being on 13, we had the smallest of the balconies in this category. That being said, it was still plenty big. It had 2 full size loungers, a table and 2 chairs, and a small cocktail table with 2 additional chairs. There was enough room to put the 4 chairs at the table and have a meal.

Being outside of the Haven was not a burden on us. It was only about a 3-4 min walk to get there, and I felt like it allowed us to see more of the ship. The vibrations in the back were not bad at all. We only felt it a couple of times, as the ship was coming into port. The soot was an issue, depending on the wind. The cabin steward did a good job staying on top of it, but in his absence, it did collect.

The Haven

The Haven was a great experience, and we'd do it again, for the right price. We paid about $6k to book this room. The ship was at 1/3 capacity, but the haven was booked to 100%. It never once felt crowded. The most people in the restaurant were during the embarkation lunch and disembarkation breakfast. Even then, it wasn't about 75% filled. During most dinners, there were never more than 7-10 tables occupied.

The food in the restaurant was ok. We were not blown way by it. It felt inconsistent. The first night, I had prime rib and lobster tail. It was fantastic. The last night, I had it again, and it came out drenched in a thick gravy that was absent before. The much talked about pork chop was dry. I was told they prepare it well done, so I ordered it med-well. Should have gone medium. My wife had several things she just plain didn't like. We're not picky people, and we didn't send anything back. Breakfast was really good. The French press coffee was great for me, but a little too strong for my wife. They had a nice selection of pastries, parfaits and fruit on the buffet. We only did lunch on embarkation day. The staff here was outstanding. They went above and beyond on every visit. They made the restaurant the experience it should have been.

The bar was amazing. Great craft cocktails. Very personable bartenders. They did magic and card tricks, and kept everyone well entertained. We had a lively bunch that would go there every night, and the bartender would just start lining up random shots for everyone in sight. As many as 14 at a time. On the 2nd night, the bartender started talking about a wheel of drinks he was going to put together. On night 4, it showed up. You'd spin it, and whatever shot it landed on, that's what he'd line up. I found that the liquor selection was very good, but there was nothing there that was exclusive to the Haven. There were 3-4 other bars that had a lot of high end stuff as well. The Haven bar is good for the extras. The syrups, infusions and the smoke machine.

The courtyard was very nice. Never more than 15% occupied. There was plenty of opportunities to have the pool or hot tub to yourself. There were a couple of very well behaved kids that would frequent the area. The sundeck was great! Occupancy ran about 50-75% on the nicer days. Plenty of options for seating, in and out of the shade. There are two large hot tubs up there that rarely had anyone in them. Bar service up there was never lacking. It did take a little longer, because the server had to go down two levels and aft to the main Haven bar to get your drink. I had a burger up there that was the best on the ship. My wife got one later, from the buffet, and it didn't compare.

The concierge was nice and attentive, but we didn't use him for much. We had a billing issue, from the embarkation lunch, that he straightened out. Once he saw us walking into the main show once, flagged us down, and showed us to the reserved seating, which we didn't use.

The Horizon Lounge was nice and spacious. It was one of the more crowded spaces in the haven. Great area to take in the sights, and a must have on a cruise like Alaska. They had a nice selection of food and snacks out, and the coffee machine pumped out some nice java.

The Butler

Thanks to @Sthrngary, and all of the information he put out, I had a good idea of what to expect. My summation of the butler is that he's your personal waiter. He'll bring breakfast, lunch and dinner to your room, and set it up on a white tablecloth. Inside or outside. What did we use him for? We gave him what snacks we wanted and they were always there (plus some extra ones). He set up breakfast one morning when we had to be off of the ship early. It was nice opening the bedroom door at 7 to find it there and ready to go. On 3 of the nights, he picked up our deserts for us, and one night a special requested diner for my wife that was a little seasick. We had the minifridge emptied out, and a pitcher of ice tea and orange juice in there. He was mostly good about keeping them filled. He was very nice and very attentive.

Premium Plus Drink Package

Thanks again to Gary, we did this. It was worth every penny. Did we get $500 out of it? I have no clue, because the best part was I didn't need to keep track. We always had San Pellegrino or Aqua Pana with a meal. Fresh squeezed OJ in the morning. Lots and lots of Veuve and Moet. Some really nice wines and bottles we could take back to the room. Only hit Starbucks twice. The bartender's eyes really do light up when they see the P+. They like to get creative and pour the good stuff. I would definitely do it again.

Tipping

I know there's a lot of controversy about disclosing any specified amounts to tip. I don't care. This was my first time in a suite, and I had to dig and dig to come up with some sort of guide to go by. If someone visits the US from another country, they may not know it's customary to tip our waitstaff 15-20% for good service. They unknowingly end up disappointing someone by not tipping or undertipping. I didn't want that to be me. That said, it is a very individual thing. Also, my philosophy on tipping is this; just because I did not use a person to their full potential, doesn't mean I should not tip them as if I did. If you disappointed me with your service, then I would downgrade your tip. Saying all of that, I tipped the butler $150, the cabin steward an extra $100, the concierge $50, the Haven Maitra D and Hostess an extra $40 each. For each meal in the Haven I tipped an extra $5 to $20. Usually $20 for dinner. I usually tipped the bartenders $2 per round of drinks. Excluding the concierge and butler, I probably tipped an extra $400 for the week.

Overall Impression

The Haven was really nice, but it did not blow me away. I would do it again, for the right price. I think NCL nickels and dimes the passengers too much. At the prices they want you to pay for the Haven, it should include more. They need to let your butler bring you drinks and include the mini fridge if you have the drink package. This is very cheap on their part. I can have a great meal in my cabin, but no wine to accompany it? I can not imagine paying $18-22K for a DOS, only to have them suck more money out of me for internet, drinks, tips, and more.

As a comparison, I have two cruise booked on Royal, in Star class. Yes, Star class is generally more than the Haven.... generally. But you are hard pressed to find something that's not included. Unlimited specialty restaurants (with no upcharges) including the chef's table, unlimited Wi-Fi for each person in your party, tips included (except for the Genie), drink package (with no add on gratuity), unlimited laundry service, indoor skydiving, a private escape room session, and on and on. The Genie can do so much more than the Haven can. Set up a party in your room with drinks and food. Meet you at any show and escort you to your front row seats. The room I have booked on Royal is for 7 people in a 2 bedroom cabin that's 825 sq/ft, with a 775 sq/ft balcony. For the price I paid for one of the cruises, I don't think I could even get 7 people in the Haven (or 6).

So overall, I did really enjoy it. I would definitely do it again, but for the right price. Personally, it needs to be in the $2-3K per person range, max for me to do it again. That, or NCL will have to step up and make it a better experience.

chill6x6 · March 15, 2022

Thanks for your review!

I agree with you about pricing. I really like the Haven. I have WANTED to book the Haven again several times BUT I have been able to book Royal Caribbean Star class for the same or usually LESS money. AND as you mentioned usually a larger cabin/balcony and the amenities you described.

Hutcha · March 15, 2022

tedbearz · March 15, 2022

Does RCL Star Class have comparable Star Class only areas?

mearsfansinboise · March 15, 2022

Thanks for the info - come Sunday we are on the Bliss with our first time being in the Haven as well. I appreciate you sharing tip amounts too - I like it when people do because it helps in making decisions so that we know we aren't way over or way under what average seems to be.

Hutcha · March 15, 2022

31 minutes ago, tedbearz said:

Does RCL Star Class have comparable Star Class only areas?

They have the Costal Kitchen, which is for suite guest and the highest tiers of the loyalty program. It's said to be one of the best restaurants on the ship. They have a suite only sundeck, but no pool/courtyard area. Some of the ships have a bar/lounge. I believe it's connected to the restaurant.

Hutcha · March 15, 2022

8 minutes ago, mearsfansinboise said:

Thanks for the info - come Sunday we are on the Bliss with our first time being in the Haven as well. I appreciate you sharing tip amounts too - I like it when people do because it helps in making decisions so that we know we aren't way over or way under what average seems to be.

It's a great ship and itinerary. The Luxury sail and snorkel in Cabo was one of the best sail/snorkel excursions I've been on. They feed you twice, and it's really good food. Also a nice open bar for the whole trip.

Rabbit58 · March 15, 2022

April 3rd in 2 bedroom.....reg balcony..small...

My thought was since we're on 18, we were close to deck chairs and would have had our fill up there....and not worth the extra $$$ for large balcony...but yes we are excited for our 1ST HAVEN..Plus huge Anniversary cruise....Your room was awesome.....I just wanted to be in the Haven....Thank you for your Tipping thoughts and for your post.

Shellbelle28 · March 16, 2022

We were on Bliss in October in aft suite 11312, which is the "large" balcony version. And man, it is amazing! We did a cabin crawl with our Cruise Critic roll call and we ended at our suite. I felt like royalty! We opened the door and the butler had rearranged the living room area and set out snacks and drinks for everyone. We never went ashore in the ports, we just lounged on the balcony and people watched.

We live pretty frugally in our day to day lives, but when we cruise we like to be spoiled. I do think I like the smaller ships overall, but that Bliss aft penthouse is an awesome memory.

Our next cruise, we're trying the Sun, also in an Aft penthouse. It will be an interesting comparison.

david_sobe · March 16, 2022

I enjoyed this mini review. I do agree with the OP that NCL misses some opportunities to really make the Haven special. However some may forget all the tiny perks that were removed from the Haven over the years like: Special fluffy beach towels, 3 liters of spring water, etc. For its price (these days), NCL could do a little more but I dont expect to see that.

I am so surprised the OP only did lunch at the Haven restaurant once. May I ask where you ate lunch? Breakfast is the best Haven perk there and lunch is a close second.

Oxo · March 16, 2022

20 minutes ago, david_sobe said:

Breakfast is the best Haven perk there and lunch is a close second.

What made Breakfast the best Haven perk there is? Eggs, bacon, pancakes, etc.

How can that be much different than any other breakfast anywhere else on the ship?

TIA

Hutcha · March 16, 2022

4 hours ago, david_sobe said:

I am so surprised the OP only did lunch at the Haven restaurant once. May I ask where you ate lunch? Breakfast is the best Haven perk there and lunch is a close second.

We were underwhelmed with lunch on the first day. Add that to the fact that we typically eat breakfast late, and we just never found our way back there for lunch. We would either grab something at The Local or eat the sandwiches and snacks back in the room.

aubreyc1988 · March 16, 2022

34 minutes ago, Hutcha said:

We were underwhelmed with lunch on the first day. Add that to the fact that we typically eat breakfast late, and we just never found our way back there for lunch. We would either grab something at The Local or eat the sandwiches and snacks back in the room.

I am a pretty picky eater, do not like seafood, hate mushrooms, so only thing I liked on the Lunch Menu was the Burger and I need variety, so we only ate in the Haven Restaurant for lunch twice. Not a big deal, just my preference. Food elsewhere was delish. I thought the "beer cheese" in the Local has changed, maybe slightly for the better?

Hutcha · March 16, 2022

6 hours ago, Oxo said:

What made Breakfast the best Haven perk there is? Eggs, bacon, pancakes, etc.

How can that be much different than any other breakfast anywhere else on the ship?

TIA

Better service. French press coffee. Steak and eggs. Outside seating and service. Pastries, fruit and parfaits were higher quality.

Yeah, regular omelets and eggs are no big deal, but the breakfast menu had a lot more than that.

SplashOfWater · March 16, 2022

1 hour ago, Hutcha said:

Better service. French press coffee. Steak and eggs. Outside seating and service. Pastries, fruit and parfaits were higher quality.

Yeah, regular omelets and eggs are no big deal, but the breakfast menu had a lot more than that.

We enjoyed the breakfast potatoes that were served with the eggs and omelets. They were just diced potatoes and nothing special to look at, but they were perfectly cooked and seasoned.

BEACHBARB · March 16, 2022

20 hours ago, Shellbelle28 said:

We were on Bliss in October in aft suite 11312, which is the "large" balcony version. And man, it is amazing! We did a cabin crawl with our Cruise Critic roll call and we ended at our suite. I felt like royalty! We opened the door and the butler had rearranged the living room area and set out snacks and drinks for everyone. We never went ashore in the ports, we just lounged on the balcony and people watched.

We live pretty frugally in our day to day lives, but when we cruise we like to be spoiled. I do think I like the smaller ships overall, but that Bliss aft penthouse is an awesome memory.

Our next cruise, we're trying the Sun, also in an Aft penthouse. It will be an interesting comparison.

We were on the Breakaway a few years ago in a Haven aft and did the cabin crawl with Cruise Critic. I agree - you feel like royalty. People are so amazed!!!!

david_sobe · March 17, 2022

23 hours ago, Oxo said:

What made Breakfast the best Haven perk there is? Eggs, bacon, pancakes, etc.

How can that be much different than any other breakfast anywhere else on the ship?

TIA

Thats a fair question so let me count the ways. First of all, I rarely eat breakfast out unless I am on vacation so its always a treat for me. However the first part that makes Haven breakfast so nice is the service in the restaurant. I could write a full page on that alone. Its something you have to experience. The food is really good and they use real eggs. NCL uses "fake eggs" or some pre-mix egg substance for their scrambled eggs in the MDR (unless you request otherwise) and buffet. You also can get salmon and a few other items you cant get in the MDR. The restaurant has a quiet and non-rushed atmosphere and is a great way to start the day. Lastly, its wonderful to open your cabin door and walk only a few steps to the restaurant where the people know you by name.

Having said all that....... the French toast and many other items are the same in the MDR just served on a fancier plate. Yes I can be happy for breakfast anywhere. But each morning its a treat and it reminds me that I am in the Haven. Even on port days when the MDR is closed, you can go back to the ship and each lunch in the restaurant when the rest of the ship only has the option of the buffet.

Edited March 17, 2022 by david_sobe

david_sobe · March 17, 2022

3 minutes ago, david_sobe said:

delete

double post

Edited March 17, 2022 by david_sobe

Oxo · March 17, 2022

52 minutes ago, david_sobe said:

Thats a fair question so let me count the ways. First of all, I rarely eat breakfast out unless I am on vacation so its always a treat for me. However the first part that makes Haven breakfast so nice is the service in the restaurant. I could write a full page on that alone. Its something you have to experience. The food is really good and they use real eggs. NCL uses "fake eggs" or some pre-mix egg substance for their scrambled eggs in the MDR (unless you request otherwise) and buffet. You also can get salmon and a few other items you cant get in the MDR. The restaurant has a quiet and non-rushed atmosphere and is a great way to start the day. Lastly, its wonderful to open your cabin door and walk only a few steps to the restaurant where the people know you by name.

Having said all that....... the French toast and many other items are the same in the MDR just served on a fancier plate. Yes I can be happy for breakfast anywhere. But each morning its a treat and it reminds me that I am in the Haven. Even on port days when the MDR is closed, you can go back to the ship and each lunch in the restaurant when the rest of the ship only has the option of the buffet.

Glad you enjoyed your breakfast! That's the way to start your day.

Stay Safe and Happy Cruising!

Two Wheels Only · March 17, 2022

On 3/15/2022 at 9:26 PM, Shellbelle28 said:

We were on Bliss in October in aft suite 11312, which is the "large" balcony version.

Deck 11 Aft-Facing Penthouse (HC) isn't considered one of the large balconies. Decks 9, 12, & 15 (HB) are the large Aft-Facing Penthouse balconies for Bliss.

Deck

Location

Comment

First time in Haven. Thoughts and impressions. Bliss/Aft/13906

Recommended Posts

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Please sign in to comment

Announcements

Features & News

New Photos