Advice for 1st Time Cruisers from a Frequent Cruiser

[CinderK]

Thank you so much for your thoughtful advice. I just booked my first cruise in 20 years to Greek Isles and Turkey. This community is very helpful.

[Sthrngary]

Here is another installment.  As I always say, don't believe me or anyone else on social media.  Do your own investigation on these topic especially those you consider serious. 

 

Booking a Guarantee Stateroom:  The best way to explain this is you choose a category of stateroom.  Let's use a Penthouse but any category will do.  In Penthouse there is three levels.  PH3 (Lowest Priced), PH2 (Middle Priced) and PH1 (Highest Price).  Location and or deck is usually the criterion for the different distinctions.  In most but not all cases, the highest price staterooms are in the middle of the ship.  

 

For our example, we choose a PH3 Guarantee.  This means when our stateroom is actually assigned, it will be a PH3 or better.  We have no choice which stateroom it is and have to wait to find out which could be when we check in at the port.  You don't like the stateroom it does not matter.  You are in it.  Your thought pattern needs to be, "I am good with any cabin in this code (PH3)."  

 

Now if the ship gets sold out in the PH categories, or in the PH3 Categories, there is a possibility you might get a complementary upgrade. The cruise brand first tries to get folks already on the ship to give up their cabin for a "Discounted Paid Upgrade".  That might open up a PH3 for you.  Or, as is the case on a cruise I am going on in 130 days, the entire ship is completely and fully booked.  If no once cancels, the give guest onboard all kinds of incentives to go another week.  

 

From a strategic perspective which is mine and mine alone here is how I think.  I book the PH3 Guarantee which gives me the lowest cost for the PH categories. I would be happy with ANY PH3 so no issues on my end.   I choose a voyage likely to sell out.  I did just that on my upcoming cruise.  The penalty stage for cancellation on this cruise has already begun so this reduces the odds of folks cancelling.  It does not eliminate it it just reduces it. This gives me better odds of gaining:

 

1. A PH2 or PH3 upgrade.
2. A higher than PH upgrade if all PH are sold out with no cancellations.
3. An incentive offer for future cruising.  

 

What I have done to increase my changes of a complementary upgrade?  Do day is June 25, 2023.  My final payment is due August 11, 2023.  Yet, I have paid both my booking in full two months before it was due.  That shows skin in the game and commitment.  Will it work and will I get an upgrade, time will tell and I will report back.  My gut tells me base on past experience, yes.  For me, that is sport and I enjoy the chase.  I hope this entertained you and helps in some way. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[Sthrngary]

The "Upgrade Fairy" is Alive and Well:

 

As with all of my posts, I am trying to give my experience of a level of success on topics new cruise guest have.  This one is popular to all cruise guests.  I purposely have not posted this on the cruise brands because the long-time loyal brand folks, tell me all the time, it won't happen.  Yet, below I will show you how it happened to me, on more than one occasion and the actions I took.

 

The subject, gaining upgraded staterooms hence the "Upgrade Fairy":

 

My most recent situation and I will be very specific. 

Timing of Cruise: Want an upgrade, choose a cruise date that is the first or second week our of prime sailing dates. I am on a 10-Day Mediterranean Cruise in the first week November 2023. This opens up a ship not to be completely filled.  That opens up a higher chance of success for an upgrade.

Watch for Upgrade Promotions:  Want to take a cruise, choose brand, timing and budget.  Go on that brands social media site and read the posts often.  All of a sudden, the post comes up about a promotion/sale.  Social media will get you the alert before you will hear it from any other source. My situation was the upgrade promotion was a four category upgrade.  I went from the least expensive Concierge Stateroom to the least expensive Penthouse with butler at the same fare. Do you consider that an upgrade?  I do.

Tell Your Story and Ask for a Professional Courtesy: Can you write is good letter? Can you tell a good story in writing? Write a well thought out letter with lots of complements about the experience you have had on the brand to this point.  Here is the most important point, don't lie.  Either you have had excellent service or you did not.  Mean it or don't say it.  Brands love to hear the successes of their team members.  The Team member also love receiving that input and it helps their careers. At the end of the letter, give a good reason for the brand to consider offering you a upgrade.  Never demand, never threaten, never be insincere or rude. It could be a story about the guest traveling with you and the hardship they have gone through to get to this cruise.  Just be truthful.  Send this letter via certified mail to the top four executives at the brand and wait for the phone call back.  

The Promising Phone Call:  That call stimulated by this letter comes about two weeks later.  When it does be shocked which you should be.  No one ever believes this will happen.  Also, be prepared with questions or requests like early reservations to special restaurants.  I recently received that phone call, asked for a few minor things in my suite and early reservations to the specialty restaurants.  Normally, this confirmed reservations happen 90 days in advance.  Mine were done 150 days in advance. I shared this on the brands social media board which I will NEVER EVER do again.  I was attached and called a liar.  I posted the screen shot from my online account supporting my claim and still got claims of being a liar.  At the end of the call with the rep, ask if at all possible to be considered for an upgrade.  Finally, ask for a email from them to confirm your other requests.  

Emails Provide Direct Communication With Executives:  Once the rep send you an email, look at their direct email address.  JHarris@(Brand).com.  First initial followed by last name at the brand.  Now find out the CEO, President, V.P. and other executives names.  You now can send an email directly to them. Don't send an email unless you want it to count.  To many gets you blocked.  Be smart and strategic. 

Look for Future Promotions:  The term is Double Dip.  Using two promotions at the same time.  I already had the four-category upgrade.  I had a fully refundable security deposit paid.  Social Media announced a special promotion.  I called my Travel Agent, she checked and I got a reduction of $1800 per cabin and keep the original 4-Catigory Upgrade. My guest were thrilled. My fare not was over $1,000 less per person than the same itinerary, on a mainstream cruise brand in their special VIP section.  

Ask for a Paid Upgrade: Have your travel agent call the cruise brand as the cruise gets closer and ask for a guest paid upgrade opportunity.  I have stayed in the best and worst stateroom on a ship.  I was already in a Penthouse with a butler.  I wanted the next category up.  My full fare at the time was $2,750.00 per person which is a bargain.  The next category was $9,000.00 per person. I asked for guest paid upgrade and was given one for $2,000.00 per person.  Now I am in a $18,000 suite for $4,700.00 per person.  That is about what the Penthouse would have been if there was not two promotions on this cruise.  This might not be worth it to you, it was to me at my age.  Remember to each their own. You can imagine what might happen if I shared this with the folks on the Social Media blog.  All hell would have broken loose. 

Bid An Upgrade:  I have done this many times especially with NCL.  What every stateroom you are in, close to the cruise they give you a bidding opportunity.  Travel Agents say, they are a waste of time.  I say, do your research and be strategic.  How much was the upgraded stateroom you wanted selling for now.  What is the current inventory for that desired stateroom.  The more open, the less you bid.  You want the NCL Haven, it is all about inventory availability.  Choose your bid, know it could or could not happen and be happy with your result.  Never offer the same amount as you could have purchased it for retail.  In that case just contact your agent and upgrade for a cost.  The key here is gaining an upgrade at a true value.

 

I hope you like my approach and stories.  I assure you, I am transparent all the time.  Have a question, feel free to ask on this stream.  Remember, I share this because you deserve to have some information even if it is your first cruise.  Just be happy with the results you achieve. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

 

 

 

[PurpleBunny84]

I've enjoyed reading your installments, thank you for sharing your insights. We will be going on our very first cruise this November. I'm excited, but also anxious, so I appreciate reading the tips.

 

I have a question about excursions. Are similar activities usually offered at the various ports by companies unaffiliated with the cruise line? It seems to me that the excursions are likely very overpriced because the cruise line is getting their "cut", and in the Bahamas there simply HAS to be more than one company offering jet ski rentals. But even using Google, it's difficult trying to find out exactly what my options would be, especially as a first time cruiser who doesn't even know exactly where the specific ports are.

 

We've had a very difficult last few years and my husband and I really need this. So I want to make a memorable trip for us, without completely breaking the bank on excursions in each port.

[Sthrngary]

9 minutes ago, PurpleBunny84 said:

I've enjoyed reading your installments, thank you for sharing your insights. We will be going on our very first cruise this November. I'm excited, but also anxious, so I appreciate reading the tips.

 

I have a question about excursions. Are similar activities usually offered at the various ports by companies unaffiliated with the cruise line? It seems to me that the excursions are likely very overpriced because the cruise line is getting their "cut", and in the Bahamas there simply HAS to be more than one company offering jet ski rentals. But even using Google, it's difficult trying to find out exactly what my options would be, especially as a first time cruiser who doesn't even know exactly where the specific ports are.

 

We've had a very difficult last few years and my husband and I really need this. So I want to make a memorable trip for us, without completely breaking the bank on excursions in each port.

@PurpleBunny84 Welcome to CruiseCritic.com.  I know exactly how you feel. As you have noticed, when I reply I am very wordy but detailed.  I will approach your question as I would do it myself. 

 

1. Ports You Will Dock At:  Go online to the cruise brand, go to the specific cruise you are on.  Go to the itinerary and look really close.  Usually it says the name of the port.  If not, go to google, put in the port and your cruise brand to find out the port.  When you know the port, you know place you want your excursion to be.  Makes it easier. 
2. Tender or NO Tender:  When you are on the cruise brand website, see if it says there will be a tender from the ship to the port or the ship will dock at the port.  If a tender add a least an hour to get off the ship.  Example: Will be at X city at 09:00 AM.  Consider that you will not be at the port until at least 11:00 AM or later.  You need that to see make your arranged time for excursion. 
3. Value of Cruise Companies Excursions:  The do all the arrangement, take a huge cut and the ship waits for that cruise brand excision to come back before leaving.  I have done my own and used the cruise like.  I will be in Europe for a 10 day cruise in November 2023.  I will use the cruise line for NO excursions. The prices are crazy.
4. Finding Excursions:  You can look on CruiseCritic.com on the bottom section of the "Boards" page.  I go to the most popular travel sites like Expedia and look up the information.  The key is LOTs of positive reviews or if they were negative, you can deal with it.  I am surprised Google is not helping you more.  The other way it to do a search from YouTube which is one of my favorite places to get this type of information.  

 

Cruise NEVER go perfect.  You are on a floating hotel, weather, water and huge crowds.  Things happen like ports being cancelled.  Make sure if you book outside the cruise brand, you can cancel if the port is cancelled.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[PurpleBunny84]

45 minutes ago, Sthrngary said:

@PurpleBunny84 Welcome to CruiseCritic.com.  I know exactly how you feel. As you have noticed, when I reply I am very wordy but detailed.  I will approach your question as I would do it myself. 

 

1. Ports You Will Dock At:  Go online to the cruise brand, go to the specific cruise you are on.  Go to the itinerary and look really close.  Usually it says the name of the port.  If not, go to google, put in the port and your cruise brand to find out the port.  When you know the port, you know place you want your excursion to be.  Makes it easier. 
2. Tender or NO Tender:  When you are on the cruise brand website, see if it says there will be a tender from the ship to the port or the ship will dock at the port.  If a tender add a least an hour to get off the ship.  Example: Will be at X city at 09:00 AM.  Consider that you will not be at the port until at least 11:00 AM or later.  You need that to see make your arranged time for excursion. 
3. Value of Cruise Companies Excursions:  The do all the arrangement, take a huge cut and the ship waits for that cruise brand excision to come back before leaving.  I have done my own and used the cruise like.  I will be in Europe for a 10 day cruise in November 2023.  I will use the cruise line for NO excursions. The prices are crazy.
4. Finding Excursions:  You can look on CruiseCritic.com on the bottom section of the "Boards" page.  I go to the most popular travel sites like Expedia and look up the information.  The key is LOTs of positive reviews or if they were negative, you can deal with it.  I am surprised Google is not helping you more.  The other way it to do a search from YouTube which is one of my favorite places to get this type of information.  

 

Cruise NEVER go perfect.  You are on a floating hotel, weather, water and huge crowds.  Things happen like ports being cancelled.  Make sure if you book outside the cruise brand, you can cancel if the port is cancelled.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Thank you for such a quick and detailed response!

1. To clarify, I know the ports, but I don't know exactly where the ship itself will be in relation to other places of interest. And didn't know how to find out. For example, I pulled up "Nassau,  Bahamas" on Google maps. I saw things like national parks, beaches, casinos, etc....but didn't know how to find out EXACTLY where my ship would be in relation to each of them. So, thank you for giving me the Google search "recipe"😆 I just tried "Nassau Bahamas Royal Caribbean port"...and I got the actual name(Prince George Wharf) and address of the port Royal Caribbean uses, and can see it on the map. That's exactly what I needed in order to see what our nearby options will be! So again, THANK YOU!!😁

 

2. I haven't seen anything about a tender, but I will look specifically for those words so I can be certain. Thanks for that tip!

 

3. I like the idea of the ship waiting in case there's an issue with one of their excursions, but for the savings and the freedom, I think I'd rather plan my own excursions and just give myself plenty of time to make it back...which I now feel more confident doing since I now know how to find the exact port location.

 

4. I will look in those places for ideas. And thanks for the tip about cancellations 👍

 

I really appreciate your help!

[Sthrngary]

3 minutes ago, PurpleBunny84 said:

Thank you for such a quick and detailed response!

1. To clarify, I know the ports, but I don't know exactly where the ship itself will be in relation to other places of interest. And didn't know how to find out. For example, I pulled up "Nassau,  Bahamas" on Google maps. I saw things like national parks, beaches, casinos, etc....but didn't know how to find out EXACTLY where my ship would be in relation to each of them. So, thank you for giving me the Google search "recipe"😆 I just tried "Nassau Bahamas Royal Caribbean port"...and I got the actual name(Prince George Wharf) and address of the port Royal Caribbean uses, and can see it on the map. That's exactly what I needed in order to see what our nearby options will be! So again, THANK YOU!!😁

 

2. I haven't seen anything about a tender, but I will look specifically for those words so I can be certain. Thanks for that tip!

 

3. I like the idea of the ship waiting in case there's an issue with one of their excursions, but for the savings and the freedom, I think I'd rather plan my own excursions and just give myself plenty of time to make it back...which I now feel more confident doing since I now know how to find the exact port location.

 

4. I will look in those places for ideas. And thanks for the tip about cancellations 👍

 

I really appreciate your help!

One more hint for you that I use when going to Europe.  I find out how to get from the port to City Central.  Easy find on YouTube.  The methods are taxi, Bus or Train.  Most of which you can pre-book online and look at reviews.  I then use "My Google Maps" feature to list and show all the places.  I want to coordinate them so getting from one place to another is fast, close and easy.  

 

Google Maps is your friend. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

[PurpleBunny84]

2 minutes ago, Sthrngary said:

One more hint for you that I use when going to Europe.  I find out how to get from the port to City Central.  Easy find on YouTube.  The methods are taxi, Bus or Train.  Most of which you can pre-book online and look at reviews.  I then use "My Google Maps" feature to list and show all the places.  I want to coordinate them so getting from one place to another is fast, close and easy.  

 

Google Maps is your friend. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

Thanks 😊 👍 You mentioned doing that when visiting Europe. Is there a reason you don't do it for other places? Have you not found it as beneficial when visiting other areas? We will be going to 4 ports in the Caribbean. 

[Sthrngary]

4 minutes ago, PurpleBunny84 said:

Thanks 😊 👍 You mentioned doing that when visiting Europe. Is there a reason you don't do it for other places? Have you not found it as beneficial when visiting other areas? We will be going to 4 ports in the Caribbean. 

I have done the Caribbean so many times, I don't need it anymore.  I have done over the years most all of the excursions more than once.  Europe, it much more about the attractions and the sites.  You have 9 hours there and if you don't have your facts right, you can mess up your day.  

 

In the Caribbean, I love the cruise companies private islands.  I usually spend some money on a private cabana  by the beach or pool.  Most of the other ports, I get off the ship, hit some shops and get back on the ship.  Been there and done that.  I am all about the cruise and less about the sites in the Caribbean.  Definitely do zip lining, it is fun.  

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[PurpleBunny84]

1 hour ago, Sthrngary said:

I have done the Caribbean so many times, I don't need it anymore.  I have done over the years most all of the excursions more than once.  Europe, it much more about the attractions and the sites.  You have 9 hours there and if you don't have your facts right, you can mess up your day.  

 

In the Caribbean, I love the cruise companies private islands.  I usually spend some money on a private cabana  by the beach or pool.  Most of the other ports, I get off the ship, hit some shops and get back on the ship.  Been there and done that.  I am all about the cruise and less about the sites in the Caribbean.  Definitely do zip lining, it is fun.  

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Ah, I see! Thanks again for your help 😊

[bonsai3s]

17 hours ago, PurpleBunny84 said:

Ah, I see! Thanks again for your help 😊

 

19 hours ago, PurpleBunny84 said:

Thank you for such a quick and detailed response!

1. To clarify, I know the ports, but I don't know exactly where the ship itself will be in relation to other places of interest. And didn't know how to find out. For example, I pulled up "Nassau,  Bahamas" on Google maps. I saw things like national parks, beaches, casinos, etc....but didn't know how to find out EXACTLY where my ship would be in relation to each of them. So, thank you for giving me the Google search "recipe"😆 I just tried "Nassau Bahamas Royal Caribbean port"...and I got the actual name(Prince George Wharf) and address of the port Royal Caribbean uses, and can see it on the map. That's exactly what I needed in order to see what our nearby options will be! So again, THANK YOU!!😁

 

2. I haven't seen anything about a tender, but I will look specifically for those words so I can be certain. Thanks for that tip!

 

3. I like the idea of the ship waiting in case there's an issue with one of their excursions, but for the savings and the freedom, I think I'd rather plan my own excursions and just give myself plenty of time to make it back...which I now feel more confident doing since I now know how to find the exact port location.

 

4. I will look in those places for ideas. And thanks for the tip about cancellations 👍

 

I really appreciate your help!

We do mostly DIY...for planning and research, we use Cruise Critic, YouTube, and www whatsinport.com

 

Happy sailing!

[PurpleBunny84]

6 hours ago, bonsai3s said:

 

We do mostly DIY...for planning and research, we use Cruise Critic, YouTube, and www whatsinport.com

 

Happy sailing!

Thanks 😊 

[Sthrngary]

I am the OP and want to add more information that may help everyone who is new.  Two subjects:

 

1. Credit Card Perks
2. Gaining Upgrades

 

Credit Card Perks: 

Some credit cards are better than others.  Prior to booking your cruise, check out your credit card for cruise perks.  I have an American Express Platinum Card and when I book let us say, the NCL Haven Suite, I received $300.00 of on-board-credit and dinner for two at the French Specialty Restaurant. I also gain access with this card to the Delta Sky Club, The Priority Lounge and the The Centurion® Lounge. Those lounges are great when you have a lay over. There are rules and every card is different.  Add to this there are some Insurance benefits HOWEVER, NOTHING takes the place of well thought out Travel Insurance.  DON'T THROW THE DICE!!!!!

 

Gaining Upgrades:  

Go to social media sites and learn the tricks to the upgrade for your specific cruise brand.  Example: NCL has a Bidding system.  They send you and email, you bid on the upgrade you want. Oceania has you make a request if they have upgraded staterooms left to make you an offer.  Crystal Cruises when they were in business, did a greatly discounted upgrade as the cruise became closer.  If it is a bid, do a mock booking to see what the inventory is left.  If lots, bid low.  If a few and you really want it, bid higher. On Solo travelers be extra careful on bidding.  If you bit $100.00, you pay $200.00 because it is double occupancy. Free upgrades depend on the infamous, "Upgrade Fairy".  Rarely happen so don't count on it. 

 

Well I hope this helps some of you.  

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[PurpleBunny84]

35 minutes ago, Sthrngary said:

I am the OP and want to add more information that may help everyone who is new.  Two subjects:

 

1. Credit Card Perks
2. Gaining Upgrades

 

Credit Card Perks: 

Some credit cards are better than others.  Prior to booking your cruise, check out your credit card for cruise perks.  I have an American Express Platinum Card and when I book let us say, the NCL Haven Suite, I received $300.00 of on-board-credit and dinner for two at the French Specialty Restaurant. I also gain access with this card to the Delta Sky Club, The Priority Lounge and the The Centurion® Lounge. Those lounges are great when you have a lay over. There are rules and every card is different.  Add to this there are some Insurance benefits HOWEVER, NOTHING takes the place of well thought out Travel Insurance.  DON'T THROW THE DICE!!!!!

 

Gaining Upgrades:  

Go to social media sites and learn the tricks to the upgrade for your specific cruise brand.  Example: NCL has a Bidding system.  They send you and email, you bid on the upgrade you want. Oceania has you make a request if they have upgraded staterooms left to make you an offer.  Crystal Cruises when they were in business, did a greatly discounted upgrade as the cruise became closer.  If it is a bid, do a mock booking to see what the inventory is left.  If lots, bid low.  If a few and you really want it, bid higher. On Solo travelers be extra careful on bidding.  If you bit $100.00, you pay $200.00 because it is double occupancy. Free upgrades depend on the infamous, "Upgrade Fairy".  Rarely happen so don't count on it. 

 

Well I hope this helps some of you.  

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

I like taking advantage of credit card perks when I can. I was able to get a $400 statement credit for buying our plane tickets with my American Airlines card. I was considering getting the Royal Caribbean card because they're currently offering $250 in on-board credit

[Sthrngary]

47 minutes ago, PurpleBunny84 said:

I like taking advantage of credit card perks when I can. I was able to get a $400 statement credit for buying our plane tickets with my American Airlines card. I was considering getting the Royal Caribbean card because they're currently offering $250 in on-board credit

@PurpleBunny84 The best credit card perk program is American Express Platinum Rewards.  Not associated with any brand.  It give you the most flexibility.  However, it is VERY expensive so you have to leverage every perk which I have done.  I used to travel for business and my client paid all my travel expenses.  At one time, I had 1.5 million points.  I can transfer the points to Delta one point for one mile.  I just used 800,000 delta air miles for two round trip Business Class ticket on Delta ONE from Alabama to Athens, Greece and from Barcelona to Alabama. I needed to transfer 100,000 AMX points to gain 100,000 extra miles.  

 

All I am saying is, AMX give reward points & Cruise Perks.  The Royal Card just give Cruise perks.  Read the fine print and due your due diligence.  Then do what is right for you.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

[Mum2Mercury]

On 5/23/2023 at 11:11 AM, Sthrngary said:

Know Yourself:

Take out a piece of paper and write down all the things you want in your next vacation experience. 

This is a great thread!  

 

Yes, this is so important.  If you don't think through /plan what you want, you're not likely to get what you want!  I also agree with your run-down of mainstream vs. premium cruise lines; it's important to choose appropriately.  There's nothing wrong with a mainstream cruise line -- as long as you don't book a mainstream cruise line expecting it to be premium.  

On 5/23/2023 at 11:11 AM, Sthrngary said:

Where to buy your cruise:

You've included a ton of great detail.  I'd like to add one more thought:  After trying a few cruise lines, we've opted to "stick with" one particular line.  Why?  Because if you stick with one cruise line, you'll work your way up the loyalty ladder, which can translate to financial savings.  For example, depending upon the line you choose, you might get upgrades, free drinks, free laundry, or whatever else.  But most of us won't cruise enough to garner these benefits on multiple cruise lines.  

On 5/26/2023 at 9:52 AM, Sthrngary said:

Here is the mistake new guest make when considering a drink package.  They want to make the cruise brand lose money on them.

And that will never happen, not even with the heaviest drinkers.  

On 5/29/2023 at 1:46 PM, Sthrngary said:

Side Note, I am the only one in my group of four that does one once of planning way ahead of time. 

It's the same in my house!  My husband looks forward to cruising, but he wants to know the date ... and doesn't really want to get into details until the week before the cruise.  He's happy to let me choose the room, make sure the payments are made on time, and choose our shore activities.  If I ask him a question, it's not likely to turn into a discussion.  

 

The positive side of this is that I really do enjoy researching and making plans, and I get to do all the things I want on shore!  

On 6/25/2023 at 12:09 PM, Sthrngary said:

Booking a Guarantee Stateroom:  

At this point in our lives, we're highly price-motivated.  We're early mid-50s /early retirees ... so we have time on our hands /can travel any time of year, but we're too young to touch the majority of our savings.  When it's just the two of us sailing, we really aren't fussy about our room, so guarantees are a great way to save money.  We've been quite happy with our assignments ... but the important thing is, We fully understand the choice we're making!  Don't go into a guarantee if you wouldn't be satisfied with the lowest-level cabin in your category.  

On 7/4/2023 at 1:06 PM, PurpleBunny84 said:

I have a question about excursions. Are similar activities usually offered at the various ports by companies unaffiliated with the cruise line? It seems to me that the excursions are likely very overpriced because the cruise line is getting their "cut"

Definitely.  At most Caribbean islands, you you can find multiple tour guides offering shore excursions very similar to those offered by the ship.  Do your homework and verify through this site (and others) that the company is reliable.  

 

BUT you're focused on money alone.  The reality is that small, private tours are superior in other ways:  you'll be in a smaller group, you'll have more interaction with your tour guide (who, unlike the cattle-call excursions sponsored by the ships, is motivated to keep you happy), and you'll have more choices.  With a ship's excursion, you'll be in a huge group, and you'll be moving at the pace of the slowest participant.  With a ship's excursion, you'll be forced to spend an hour in a straw market that doesn't interest you, then you'll hurry past a cute little boutique or bar where you would've wanted to stop.  In contrast, the private guides often give the group choices; for example:  Okay, we've finished our main activity ... now I can drop you back at the port, or I can drop you at a beach /you can make your own way back to the ship when you're ready, or -- if you want lunch -- I recommend Restaurant X.  Take a minute, then tell me what you'd each like.  

On 7/4/2023 at 1:28 PM, Sthrngary said:

@PurpleBunny84 Welcome to CruiseCritic.com.  I know exactly how you feel. As you have noticed, when I reply I am very wordy but detailed.  I will approach your question as I would do it myself. 

Good run-down of how to manage excursions.  I like wordy-but-detailed.  Yes, Google Maps and You Tube are great resources for planning shore activities.

 

If we're talking Caribbean, tenders are rare now.  And that's a good thing.  

[FetaCheese]

Mr. Gary, I just found this topic -- referenced in your Oceania -- GTY Assignment -- topic.  

 

Have read all posts, and really enjoyed and appreciated your advice and thoughtful commentary.

 

We are experienced cruisers, yet I have learned much from your approach.

 

Thanks.

Edited July 18, 2023 by FetaCheese
Addl info

[Sthrngary]

32 minutes ago, FetaCheese said:

Mr. Gary, I just found this topic -- referenced in your Oceania -- GTY Assignment -- topic.  

 

Have read all posts, and really enjoyed and appreciated your advice and thoughtful commentary.

 

We are experienced cruisers, yet I have learned much from your approach.

 

Thanks.

You are more than welcome. I am really looking forward to my first Oceania cruise.  I usually cruise the NCL Haven.  I am well known there.  I find it difficult sometimes to interact on the Oceania Board.  My approach seems to set some of the Oceania faithful back.  I am working on it.  Thank you again for such kind words.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

[Sthrngary]

@BSA My sincere apologies to you.  You had every right to post the Investment Number on the other board.  You and I are HUGE NCL fans.  I have been cruising NCL since my Honeymoon 44 years ago when it was call just Norwegian.  Once I found the NCL Haven, I found what I have called the Best of Both Worlds.  

 

It seems you and I are new to the other brand.  I am very careful when I have never cruise a brand not to come across as an expert on the brand.  Where with NCL, I make very pointed comments based on Experience.  My reaction to the amount disclosed was based on a less than thrilling exchange on Crystal Cruise some years ago prior to taking my first one.  

 

When you posted, I felt one of the members was being rude to you like you were lying about the information you found.  You were classy enough to say you would let me disclose the link and you got a Laughing emoji.  That is why I came back, said you were correct and gave the link.  

 

Putting the dollar amount on any thread was a stupid move if I wanted it keep private.  Again, you did nothing wrong, you were actually being complementary.  I hope you will accept my apology. 

 

Since we are both new to that brand, and I have done intensive research.  Ask me anything and I will freely share. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

Edited July 18, 2023 by Sthrngary

[Sthrngary]

@BSR Sorry for the late post.  I originally sent it to the wrong name above.  My bad. 

 

My sincere apologies to YOU.  You had every right to post the Investment Number on the other board.  You and I are HUGE NCL fans.  I have been cruising NCL since my Honeymoon 44 years ago when it was call just Norwegian.  Once I found the NCL Haven, I found what I have called the Best of Both Worlds.  

 

It seems you and I are new to the other brand.  I am very careful when I have never cruise a brand not to come across as an expert on the brand.  Where with NCL, I make very pointed comments based on Experience.  My reaction to the amount disclosed was based on a less than thrilling exchange on Crystal Cruise some years ago prior to taking my first one.  

 

When you posted, I felt one of the members was being rude to you like you were lying about the information you found.  You were classy enough to say you would let me disclose the link and you got a Laughing emoji.  That is why I came back, said you were correct and gave the link.  

 

Putting the dollar amount on any thread was a stupid move if I wanted it keep private.  Again, you did nothing wrong, you were actually being complementary.  I hope you will accept my apology. 

 

Since we are both new to that brand, and I have done intensive research.  Ask me anything and I will freely share. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

Edited July 19, 2023 by Sthrngary

[BSR]

@Sthrngary   No need to apologize to me. I shouldn’t have posted the dollar amount as I didn’t know you wanted to keep it private. You shouldn’t really care what others think, as you paid for the upgrade and did score a great deal. Be happy about that.

 

Every time we post on CC, we open ourselves up to be attacked one way or another.

 

We have sailed many times on NCL in the Haven and really enjoy the experience. This will be our first time in a suite on Oceania and looking forward to comparing the two brands.

 

I just received my official cruise vacation planner which was a nice surprise.

 

I know what to expect from NCL’s butlers, but I haven’t found out much about the O’s butlers. Do you have any information on the butlers? Any other helpful information on suites would be appreciated.

 

 

Edited July 20, 2023 by BSR

[Sthrngary]

21 minutes ago, BSR said:

@Sthrngary   No need to apologize to me. I shouldn’t have posted the dollar amount as I didn’t know you wanted to keep it private. You shouldn’t really care what others think, as you paid for the upgrade and did score a great deal. Be happy about that.

 

Every time we post on CC, we open ourselves up to be attacked one way or another.

 

We have sailed many times on NCL in the Haven and really enjoy the experience. This will be our first time in a suite on Oceania and looking forward to comparing the two brands.

 

I just received my official cruise vacation planner which was a nice surprise.

 

I know what to expect from NCL’s butlers, but I haven’t found out much about the O’s butlers. Do you have any information on the butlers? Any other helpful information on suites would be appreciated.

 

 

@BSR Thank you for understanding.  I bet you read my thread on NCL for the Haven.  I wrote the "Secrets of the Haven VIP Experience."  I LOVE the Haven.  I also did a Video on YouTube for the Joy (H2) Deluxe Owners Suite.  This is my first time with Oceania also.  We will learn together.

 

On the Butler, as a matter of fact, I have LOTS of information for you.  I will put some here however I have written a lot on Oceania which I will post after I cruise in November.  I always write the big op-eds in advance.  On NCL, the Butlers were Hit/Miss until I started to write a Butler Letter.  Then it got better.  See below and let me know if it helps you.  Enjoy

 

Secret #8: Utilizing Your Butler:

Things you will encounter and enjoy with a butler.  The will:

·        Menus: Each morning, they will bring you that day’s “Grand Dining Room” menu.  The Specialty Restaurants Menus are in the suite. You MAY want to attempt to change your specialty restaurant booking that evening in the Specialty Restaurant based on “Grand Dining Room” menu. Make sure you can replace that reservation for another time that suits you before you cancel it.

·        Coffee: Bring your morning coffee and pastries if you like, even from the illy™ Barista Coffee Bar. Always give your butler good instructions, a head up, and time to prepare.

·        Reservations: Assist in making or changing Specialty Restaurant reservations.  Remember, “NO” guarantees especially on a sold-out cruise and that is why making those reservations pre-cruise as soon as you can, is important.

·        In-Suite Dining: Serve you in-suite dining from ANY restaurant.  The butler will do this course-by-course.  Please give your butler a fair head up and only order from one restaurant to avoid confusion.

·        Sweet Dreams™ Pillow Menu: Gain the pillow you want from the Sweet Dreams™ Pillow menu and exchange it for the pillow on the bed.

·        Afternoon Tea in your Suite: Oceania has Afternoon Tea daily in the Horizons Observation Lounge at 04:00 PM.  You may choose to have a personalized Afternoon Tea in your suite.  As with all uniquely special services, give the Butler a fair head-up.

·        Afternoon Canapes: Provide you with your afternoon canapes based on your selections provided to them in the morning.

·        Bubble Bath: Draw you a bubble bath at a specific time.

·        Escort: Escort you to the main theatre shows, restaurants and events upon request.

NOTE: A Butler is NOT your date.  They take you to the location and drop you off.

·        Laundry: Take care of your complementary laundry of three bags of 20 items each.  There is a three-day turnaround time for return.

·        Shoeshine: Have a scuff on your shoes, give them to your butler.

·        Pressing:  You have up to three days after embarkment to provide four (4) items per cabin for pressing.

·        Port Reservations: Gain reservations even for port restaurant.

·        Luggage: Unpack and pack your luggage.  This is NOT something I have ever had done.  Those that have had it done seem to enjoy it.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Edited July 20, 2023 by Sthrngary

[Sthrngary]

@BSR Tell me the Suite you are in and I will post what I have.  Penthouse, Oceania, Vista or Owners Suite.  I have information on all of them

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[FetaCheese]

Since we're price/value driven, never had a suite nor butler.  Are very happy with Oceanview, don't really need or use balcony, but really enjoyed veranda on Viking.  We're just happy and blessed to have been on some 45 cruises.  

 

Gary, your research on O butlers is spot on. (no butlers on Viking). Perhaps someday we'll spend extra to be in an upper tier cabin, with butler.  We would most definitely avail ourselves of all his/her 

services.

 

BTW, have read that many pax here on CC who have paid for butlers, don't or underutilize their butler.  Some have said they don't know what they do.

Edited July 20, 2023 by FetaCheese
Clarity

[Sthrngary]

2 minutes ago, FetaCheese said:

Since we're price/value driven, never had a suite nor butler.  Are very happy with Oceanview, don't really need or use balcony, but really enjoyed veranda on Viking.  We're just happy and blessed to have been on some 45 cruises.  

 

Gary, your research on O butlers is spot on. (no butlers on Viking). Perhaps someday we'll spend extra to be in an upper tier cabin, with butler.  We would most definitely avail ourselves of all his/her services

services.

 

BTW, have read that many pax here on CC who have paid for butlers, don't or underutilize their butler.  Some have said they don't know what they do.

@FetaCheese When I booked the Oceania Cruise, I waited for a four Category Upgrade Promotion.  I also use the strategy of booking this cruise the week after the prime season in the Mediterranean, which was November 9 cruise. As I mentioned, The Extraordinary Saving Sale happened.  The reason why I am sharing this is the Penthouse ended up being about the same as a Veranda after all that.  

 

I assure you, without the promotions/sales, I would not have had a Butler.  Treat yourself one day.  The above list is a good one.  I also draft a butlers letter that gives some history, like/Dislikes, food preferences and some other stuff for my wife and me.  It helps the butlers and they always say, I did the work for them so they don't need a crystal ball.  On the folks that don't utilize the butlers, they are best to learn how to leverage them or don't waste the funds on a Penthouse or above. My first butler was underutilized because my wife would not let me ask them to do anything.  That only happened once, I assure you.

 

IMHO, Everyone deserves to be a "Rock Star" once in their lives. Any way I can assist, just reach out.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.