Semi-Live Comparison of NCL Haven Suite vs. Oceania Penthouse/Vista Suite

[Sthrngary]

Disclaimer: I am working hard to clean up my communication.  Reducing the details, using less words and cleaning up my spelling/grammar.  It won't be perfect but the effort is being made. 

 

I wrote "The Secrets of the NCL Haven VIP Experience".  My next cruise is on NCL's sister brand, Oceania Cruises.  I was asked to do a comparison of my experience in a Haven Suite vs. a Oceania Penthouse/Vista Suite.  My cruise leaves on November 9, 2023 for a 10-Day Mediterranean Cruise.  I will attempt to post while on the cruise.  If you have any specific questions please feel free to ask and I will attempt to answer as they come up in Real Time.

 

Installment #1: Pre-Cruise Events

I got better communication pre-cruise from Oceania Cruises then the NCL Haven.  First several months ago, I got a phone call asking if I had any food needs.  Second, I got a very professional packet of information that was semi-personalized with Luggage Tags at about 45 days out. Third, all Specialty Restaurants are part of the Oceania amenities, however you are only guaranteed pre-cruise one reservation per specialty restaurant.  Like the Haven, if you are in a Penthouse or above on Oceania, you can make those reservation earlier then other cruise guests.  Fourth, I upgraded to an upper suite on Oceania with a Paid Guest upgrade.  The stateroom is called a "Vista Suite".  From a size, location, amenities and perk standpoint it compares to the (H2) Haven Owners Suite on the NCL Joy.  I found the pre-cruise gifts, perks, amenities in the Vista Suite far better then the Haven Owners suite.  Fifth, all water and soft drinks in the Oceania Staterooms regardless of category are complementary.  Sixth, depending on the drink package you have, Oceania Adult Beverages can be served in your stateroom as complementary.  Rules vary based on drink package. There is a charge on NCL. 

 

Have a question ask it. Just remember, I get on the ship next week. Be patient on my responses. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[njhorseman]

(deleted)

Edited November 2, 2023 by njhorseman

[Sthrngary]

4 minutes ago, njhorseman said:

A suggestion...if you can make the change the thread title should say "vs. Oceania Vista Suite", not "vs. Oceania Penthouse/Vista Suite" . A Vista Suite is not the same as a Penthouse Suite. Vista is a higher category as a result and gets additional benefits that a Penthouse Suite doesn't.

@njhorseman I have a Vista Suite, my guest with us have a Penthouse.  This allows me to talk about both.  I will compare the Vista Suite to my recent stay in an H2 Haven Owners Suite.  Still hard to compare and be fair. I will compare the Penthouse to the Haven Penthouse. 

 

7 minutes ago, njhorseman said:

Also when making cruise line to cruise line comparisons fare is always a factor. Are you paying more on Oceania than you would on comparable cruise in a comparable category on NCL?

I purposely did not put budget in quite yet.  It is my intention to do so.  It will be hard to compare the cost of the Vista Suite to the H2 Owners Suite because I got a real deal on the Vista Suite.  I will do my best to be accurate.  The Penthouse suite is much easier.  I just have to show what you get on each line for a fair comparison. My approach and would love your feed back is to do the cost, per guest, per day vs. a total amount.  Thoughts?

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[Sthrngary]

Installment #2: Budget (I am only covering this because it was a question from someone)

 

When I book a Haven Suite, usually the least expensive one is the Haven Suite outside of the Haven Proper.  The daily rate with the "Free At Sea" promotions give me a rate of between $460.00 down to $360.00 per guest per day.  That is my experience anyway. It was higher in September of 2022.  Over the past few months, those rates came off the $460.00 and got closer to the $360.00. 

 

When I priced out the Oceania Cruise in September of 2022, comparing it to the two NCL Haven ships doing essentially the same itinerary which was the Viva and the Breakaway, Oceania was far less. To be transparent, at the time Oceania was offering a four category upgrade sales which I took to the Penthouse level with a butler. A few months later, Oceania had another special sale called the Extraordinary Saving Event which took the rate down even further.  The final daily rate was $310.00 per day per person which included the "Prestige Unlimited Wine, Beer and Spirits".  

 

If we priced another itinerary, all of this could be reversed.  The lesson is check, do your due diligence. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

 

 

[Sthrngary]

Disclaimer:

 

Nothing will take away my love for the NCL Haven Concept of a "Ship-Within-A-Ship".  Yet I am very respectful it is not for everyone.  When I do my comparation, it is not to sell anyone on one approach from another.  Every choice we make has Pros/Cons.  When I choose my next cruise on NCL Sister Ship it was for the Itinerary and for a change to a different emphasis for my next cruise experience.  Did I feel something were not up to past levels on my NCL Haven Experience, Yes.  However is was a minor reason for considering a change in brand, ship size and type of cruise. Hope that makes sense and answers some questions. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[CDR Benson]

I will be following this thread avidly, sir.  Nothing else to say but to wish you and your companions a safe and idyllic cruise.

 

Fair winds and following seas, my friend.

 

 

[Sthrngary]

Installment #3: Airfare

 

My goal was reduction of stress.  The older I get, the more I seem to want to stress-out on things.  I almost missed a cruise embarkment once and this is a memory trace.  That was very stressful.  So now I want complete control over my air travel, brand, connections, times and seating. This for me, makes using Cruise Brand flight, even if they are less expensive, not an option for my travel. 

 

1) Fly In Early: I always want to come in one day or more early as a general rule.  I noticed that a policy changed with Oceania a few months ago that if you use their air, they will book you in a day or so early with no additional charge.  Not sure if NCL has that but nice if you book your air with the cruise brand.

2) Consider All Options:  If you are completely flexibly and want the cheapest air, you have to consider which ever cruise brand air is available regardless of brand. Still check the booking direct with an airline.  My approach was a comparison of Fully Refundable fares.

3) Perks Provided by Cruise Brand: I though it was a nice touch for a trip to Europe that Oceania has a $299 per guest per international segment to have Coach Premium Plus upgrades. Not available for all itinerary but was for this cruise. I have not seen such an opportunity with NCL. I will also say, the Add-On for business class for Oceania was unreasonably high and I would price shop with major carriers. 

 

Conclusion: I booked my Business Class and my Guest Fully Refundable Coach directly with Delta Airline.  My business class was with point I saved for years.  The coach for my guest was paid with a credit card.  I purchased both on the first day the flight became available to get the lowest fare.  Over the months, I have upgraded my guest to First class on all domestics flights and Business Class on the first long-haul flight.  All VERY reasonably for a cost stand point. Keep all your options open, and make your decision based on facts that are available.

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

 

[Sthrngary]

Sunday, November 5, 2023: Pre-Cruise Communication

 

Summary: Flight leaves 06:33 am, November 7, 2023.  Pre-Cruise Hotel is on November 8, 2023. Cruise departs on November 9, 2023 out of Athens, Greece.  This final preparation allows for excitement to build.  Your vacation should have a Before, During, and After element of JOY. 

 

Difference between Oceania and NCL Haven: At this day, two day prior to flight, there is "NO" real difference to speak of other then some communication and documentation some weeks ago. 

 

• Pre/Post Cruise Hotels:  Both hotels have sent information sheets and confirmations this morning. I am always afraid I booked the wrong dates.  
• Travel Insurance: We used Allianz Insurance Company, full coverage including cancel for any reason. This morning a final confirmation was sent.  I noticed the return date was off by one day and fixed it. 
• Packing:  All bags are packed.  My wife has packed three times, changing items each time.  I was FORCED to go clothing shopping and YES I have an jacket for dinner. The luggage is in the SUV already.
• Money:  I had my bank order me both types of currency for our itinerary to cover little inexpensive items on the street. Easier to do than I thought. 
• Journey Document: Final version is at the Printer for pick up tomorrow.  A work of art that no one will read or look at including myself.  However really helps me when you check in to hotels and the ship. It was fun to do. 
• Butler Letter: Final version was printed, and sealed.  This letter is far less detailed and lengthy as I have done in the past.  I did one for our guests as well. 
• Online Airfare Check-In: Will receive tomorrow morning. Pre-Flight Menu's were sent for the main meal.  I ordered the Beef Short Ribs and my lovely bride  plus our guests ordered the Ravioli. 

Conclusion: Basically all checks and cross checks are done.  The biggest challenge we have is staying on our diets until we leave.  It is so easy to go off the deep end even before you are on vacation.  If you never had a weight problem, I envy you. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[Candy Apple 12]

8 minutes ago, Sthrngary said:

 Your vacation should have a Before, During, and After element of JOY. 

 

How very true! I think that’s why many of us spend time on CC—the anticipatory joy of learning more about our upcoming cruise and the joy of giving back to the community by sharing our experiences after the cruise.  

[FetaCheese]

@Sthrngary

 

Thanks, again for your posts.  How will you be able to sleep tonight and tomorrow night, with the anticipatory excitement?

 

Really enjoy reading your posts to my wife and myself!  

 

Good to have found the insurance date error.  Such a very important date.

[Sthrngary]

3 minutes ago, FetaCheese said:

@Sthrngary

 

Thanks, again for your posts.  How will you be able to sleep tonight and tomorrow night, with the anticipatory excitement?

 

Really enjoy reading your posts to my wife and myself!  

 

Good to have found the insurance date error.  Such a very important date.

@FetaCheese Do you remember how we met on CruiseCritic.com?  I had done a post for "New Cruisers".  I posted what happened on my "Guest Paid Upgrade" from a Penthouse to the Vista Suite.  You showed class when asked to share where you saw the post and diverted to me.  That show of kindness and class made me one of your biggest fans.  Then I read your posts and was so impressed the way you were always fair, balanced and detailed.  Unlike me, you mastered the art of being clear without writing a book.  Impressive.

 

I have not issue sleeping.  I do an Ambien and Vodka. I call it a "Night Cap"!!!  Seriously, I have done everything that anyone can do and then some.  My wife has more lists then I have ever seen.  We will be so exhausted we will pass out for sure. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[FetaCheese]

@Sthrngary

 

Thanks for your kind words and compliments on my posts.

 

Perhaps we will meet in person one day on Oceania.  Would have lots to share.

 

My wife has a  packing doc, and a house get ready doc.  She lets me plan the cruise, meals and shorex, then gives approval, or not!

[DominicAUS]

Oh I’m very interested in reading these comparisons and of course you all enjoying your trip. 
Enjoy and have a great time. I look forward to reading about it. 

[WillCruiseForMoney]

@Sthrngary

Looking froward to your updates.  We (wife and I) have cruised in the Haven on NCL and in a Penthouse suite on Oceania, so it will be interesting to hear about your experiences and thoughts.

[vacation44]

Have an wonderful and safe trip! Looking forward to reading all about it.

[Sthrngary]

November 13, 2023:  Day 5, of 10 of our Mediterranean Cruise.

 

My real time blog is on the Oceania Cruises Cruise Critic area.  However, I waited to start writing this one until I felt I understood the differences.  I will do a couple of posts here and if I have time, I will answer some questions.  We are on the newly renovated Oceania Riviera. 

 

The Biggest Difference:  When you leave your stateroom, everyone is treated the same.  No separate Haven Area or Haven bar/restaurant. No one ever feels like they are not getting the full luxury experience.  Within your suite, the higher up you go, the more amenities in you gain.  If you are a penthouse or higher, you get a butler, access to the Outdoor thermal spa which is like the Vibe Beach Club with a thermal spa area but no bar.  An executive lounge with a concierge, snacks and computer area. I can get more specific here but I can say it best by saying, when you leave your stateroom, it is like the entire ship is the Haven on Steroid.

 

Specialty Restaurants:  No charge for any guest but everyone gets four guaranteed reservation pre-cruise and space available when on the cruise.  If you are in the three highest suites called the Oceania, Vista and Owners Suite, you get 8 pre-cruise reservations.  Food is subjective to the person so keep that in mind.  From my opinion, the Specialty Restaurants are some of the best I have ever had on the sea, PERIOD on Oceania.  The service has been stellar each and every time.  The quality has also be excellent.  The restaurants are smaller and they only have one seating.  

 

The Main Dining Room:  Better then the Main Dining Room on any ship I have been on but not a huge difference.  I will say, on day two at breakfast, they new my name and my guest names.  That was impressive. 

 

Buffet: Smaller then NCL.  Food quality, no comparison, Oceania wins again on the food quality with a grill to order section.  I think you get the point on the food. 

 

The Butler:  Yes, I did a butler letter.  Yes, I had several items I asked for.  Sorry NCL, you simply don't have butlers, you have folks that look the part.  I kind of figured this from a past experience on Crystal.  My butler on Oceania is the Real Deal.  Quite, never have to ask twice, always available and never says no.  No excuses, generally loves to see us enjoy ourselves in a way that makes you feel nice.  He double checks everything you as for has been done.  No comparison if a butler is important to you. 

 

Suite:  I have a Vista Suite 1250 sf which is the equal to an H2 Owners Suite on a large NCL ship.  My guests have a Penthouse, 440 sf.  The quality, artwork, are all better on Oceania.  The bed and linens are a new level.  I like the showers better in the Haven because they are larger, regardless of which suite.  

 

I will add some more in the future, remember, I love the Haven, always will.  At this point, no comparison.  Ask any questions you might have. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

[vacation44]

Thank you for checking in.  I will check out your updates in the Oceania thread.

[Sthrngary]

Embarkment: Timed like all other cruise lines.  The higher your suite, the earlier you can board.  The more expensive suites like the Oceania, Vista and Owners Suite were ready when you boarded.  No waiting.  The Penthouses were ready at 12:00 PM which was their boarding time.  No waiting for your room with Penthouse and above.  This is not always the case but it was my experience.

 

 

[Sthrngary]

WARNING: Long and Detailed. Read at night when you can't fall asleep.

 

Hello Cruise Critic Friends:

 

I came on the Oceania Cruise board 1.5 years ago.  I wanted to make friends, which I did.  I wanted to learn, which I did.  I wanted to enhance my cruising experience with Oceania Cruises, which I did. I have an acquired taste, and I am fully aware of that. Yet, “It is nice when a plan comes together.”

This post will be on the Oceania and the NCL CruiseCritic.com Boards.  On NCL, I want to let my longtime cruise buddies that engaged with me on the “NCL Haven” to have my perspective on Oceania Cruises per their request.  For the Oceania Board, I want those that wanted a new person’s perspective on Oceania to have one that is based on a perspective of a lots of cruises and the last 10 years of cruising in the VIP section of Mainstream Mega Ships. 

 

I am writing this partially on the flight back home watching “John Wick 3”, the morning after I get home and two days after I am home.  A perfect approach to a review of sorts to allow one to remember it as it happened. 

 

“Let us begin.”

 

Review with the End in Mind: Writing with “End in Mind”.  For all those that say, my post is “Word Salad”.  You were RIGHT, however that is the way I write.  To honor you, here is my conclusion.  “I Love Oceania Cruising”.  For those that want the details, please read on. 

 

My thoughts are mostly good, with some areas of concern/improvement.  I believe in honest balanced reviews. My order is my own based on what comes to my mind first.  Full Disclosure, I had a few glasses of wine and now on my second cup of coffee Delta Airline Coffee so excuse the spelling and grammar.

 

Flying on the Day before the Cruise:  First, please always consider this if possible. We got lucky with NO air issues at all either way. That was a miracle.  My wife and friends all flew First Class Delta domestically and Delta One Suites for the long haul from JFK to Athens, Greece.  I used saved Delta Miles for myself, and I got lucky on inexpensive upgrades as they were made available for my friends. The Delta Suites were nice, but I like the older Delta One seats better on the return trip.  I don’t know why, but I was more comfortable on the return flight.  Although on the return, the seats, and areas around them were dirty, which is why we bring cleaning clothes.  Just my thoughts about the Delta One seats, not everyone.  This is from someone that has flown ALL his adult life. Was it better than coach or coach premium, YES but only at the right price.  Full fare, I say not in our future.

 

Hotel In Athens, Greece Day Prior to the Cruise: The “Hotel Grande Bretagne”.  I booked it directly with the hotel, it is cheaper than booking through Oceania by almost half.  Outstanding Hotel in every way.  The roof top bar/restaurant has the most spectacular views at night of all of Athens, Greece and for breakfast the same view in the daylight. Breakfast was amazing and the greatest way to start a vacation.  The best breakfast buffet I have ever had in my life and that is to say something. Plus, it was part of the room rate. 

 

Oceania Embarkment:  This was the first TEST of my experience with Oceania Cruises.  Security was as one might expect, awkward, a bit of a “Hurry up and Wait”. My approach for every cruise is to get onboard first (Based on Cruise Brand Rules), in this case 11:00 AM and this was NO difference.  I was in a “Vista Suite” and my Guests were in a “Penthouse (PH2)”.  Oceania let them check-in with us, which was nice.  I took my Suite Card pictures at home for check-in and NO pictures were needed at the port. That was a first for me and I noted it.  Quick easy and on board in less than 15 minutes.  Just like other brands, I got multiple emails to watch the safety video, which we did. My Vista Suite was ready immediately and the PH2 was ready at 12:00 PM.  I went straight to Muster, which was quick and easy, then to our Suite with our guest as one might expect.  To answer a few questions.  My key card for the Vista Suite was gold with a black edge.  The Penthouse card was all gold. To my NCL Haven Friends, you cannot put your carry-on’s, in your suite before they are ready on Oceania like you can in the Haven.  However, for this cruise anyway, the time you are asked to board, both staterooms were ready. I rate Embarkment a 9 out of 10.

 

Vista Suite:  Lovely suite but a “One and Done” experience for me.  A huge suite with a huge balcony that is half the front of the ship literally.  I rate the suite an “8 out of 10”.  The exercise room is a waste of space for us on a cruise.  The balcony furniture is pulled/tied down before the ship leaves a port which is a waste.  The in suite blue tooth Bose Music System worked perfectly and love that.  The Jacuzzi in the Master Bath was used a few times, and it was double sized and lovely.  The Jacuzzi outside was never used because the water was warm but not hot.  Before the Oceania CruiseCritic.com Police hit me up, YES, I told the right folks. The suite itself was nice but in the future, I will go for a PH or Concierge stateroom. I currently booked a Concierge Stateroom for an October 2025 cruise already. As some of you know, I got a very good deal on Vista Suite and it was worth every penny but still, for me not worth full retail.  The six bottles of spirits, the Bath Gift Box and the Oceania Gift Bag were a very welcome and nice touch.  A way to remember the suite. Before folks get confused, those gifts were only for Oceania, Vista, and Owners Suites.  This has been a topic of another blog here on CruiseCritic.com.  Embarkment lunch in the suite is ONLY offered to the Owners Suite which is an answer to another question recently asked.  Not an issue, not the way I wanted my first lunch to be on Oceania anyway. The Oceania Vista Suite is basically the same as the H2 Haven Owners Suite with Large Balcony on the NCL Joy, Encore or Bliss.

 

Butler: Rating 9 out of 10. He was GREAT, and I think his name was “Raj”.  No request was denied, extra specialty restaurant reservations were obtained, and changes of reservations were done within 15 minutes.  We never dinned in the suite at all but had coffee and Danish brought every morning from Barista’s at 07:45 AM. That was worth the price of admission.  To my NCL Haven Friends, this butler was the Real Deal butler and the NCL butlers, I have had many, cannot come close.  My guests, like so many new cruises that have never had a butler, did not take my advice, and utilize their butler except for complementary laundry services.  They lose, but I understand.  I did the same the first time I had a butler.  My wife and I did not have anything pressed (allowance of four items done within the first three days of sailing) and we only used two (2) of the three (3) bags of laundry.  The last morning, because of my mistake of missing the third bag, I was punished by doing two loads in the complementary laundry mat on deck 11. NCL Haven Friends, this is yet another difference with Concierge and above staterooms to have some complementary laundry however the laundry mat is available to every stateroom.

 

I did a Butler Letter which I have posted about online and given some samples.  It is something I have done for 10 years after being disappointed so many times with below average butlers.  Every single request was made with no further comment from me.  From extra lounge chairs on the deck, Nuts/Pretzels in the suite, Orange/Cranberry juice in the refrigerator and the type of soda’s we like.  One request was not large portion for snacks because I had wasted food.  All were honored. 

Our six (6) bottles of wine/spirits were delivered after the ship left the dock (Rules about delivery). The spirits were liter, which was a surprise. Before someone asked, those six (6) bottles come only with an Oceania, Vista, or Owners Suite not with a PH or lower. I took home in my luggage what we did not drink, I just unpacked what was left and put it in my home bar.  To my NCL Haven Friend.  Complementary Spirits and Mixers in your Haven Suite is limited to H2/Owners Suite and some of the larger suites on ships with no Haven areas.  They are NOT liters; they are 5^th on NCL. One more difference, if you have a drink package on Oceania, the room service or butler WILL bring those drinks to your stateroom complementary where in the Haven, there is a charge.  NOTE, the rules to which Oceania Drink package applies.  Do your due diligence, it will serve you well, especially if you have never cruised Oceania before.

 

First Day Lunch:  The Breakfast at our Hotel in Athens was one of the best I have ever had as stated above.  I had items I have not had in years.  I was not hungry for lunch on the ship, but we all chose to go to the Terrace Café’ (Buffet) not Waves as I originally planned.  I had a very small lunch which was from the Carving Station and was great quality.  My NCL Haven Friends, the Terrace Café’ is the buffet.  It is NOT huge, but unlike other ship Buffets, the quality was very good.  The closest I have ever gotten to this at sea was on Crystal Cruises with better bread on Oceania Cruise and better deserts on Crystal.  Please remember, it was still a buffet but a good one.  I knew we were going to dinner at the Toscana (Italian) for dinner.  This cruise for me was not an eat feast.  I had just lost lots of weight getting ready for the cruise so my stomach simply could not handle huge amounts of food.  We gave up quantity for quality. For a fat guy, that was a major change in my eating habits.

 

Brief Summary of Day One: After lunch we unpacked, which is the rule in my family and strictly enforces by my bride.  We all then went to the outside Spa Terrace where the Thermal Spa is located.  This was of great interest to me and an area I spent much time in during the cruise. My wife was impressed that all the of the spa amenities (outside of the Thermal Spa) were available for all.  She especially liked the heated tile lounge chairs.  This is part of your fare with Oceania for my Haven Friends information.   We then simply took a tour of this well-appointed ship (Riviera) which was just renovated less than a year ago.  We ended up in my Vista Suite, with drinks in hand, for the sail away.  What a view of Athens and our guests were beside themselves. Time to get ready for dinner and another drink (two or three). 

 

Food and Drink:  I will not share every aspect of the food we ate.  We all must realize food is relative to the person.  This will be a general overview only. Many others show pictures and comments. 

 

Specialty Restaurants:  All the Specialty Restaurants were excellent except the Polo Grill which I will share below.  The quality of the specialty restaurants, which are complementary in Oceania (Some Rules do Apply). For my NCL Haven friends, in my opinion Oceania Specialty Restaurants were much better, with the except for the steakhouse.  NOTE: Oceania Cruises gives four (4) guaranteed reservations pre-cruise (ten-day cruise), (Oceania, Vista and Owners Suites have 😎 and space available when on the cruise which differs from NCL that charge for Specialty Restaurant past the “Free at Sea” promotion.

 

Red Ginger (Asian fusion):  10 out of 10. Rated #1 by our entire group.  Service, quality of food and for me the only place I loved dessert, which was simple.  We have a special evening which I wrote about when a person from a table of 8 was screaming at his fellow table mates which made our dinner even more eventful.  As previously stated, “Dinner and a Show” not on the Oceania Currents (Daily Activity Sheet Name).  We went to Red Ginger twice.  I could eat there every night. 

 

Jacques (French): 9 out of 10. Rated #2 overall and again we ate here twice.  The entire staff treated us like rock stars, especially the host who is a super star. We wanted our friends to join our table for the second meal (Based on a Vista Suite) and it was always accommodated.  I think what made this restaurant special was the atmosphere.  It is gone on the new ships which I think is a loss and our next cruise is on the “Vista Ship” which means for us, no more Jacques. Sad about that.

 

Toscana (Italian): 8 out of 10. Rated #3 overall.  I like Italian food however we had several ports in Italy so simply no comparison.  I found the food Americanized but I like that so just understand.  It is not Italy, but It is good. No one in our group liked the olive oil cart except for the presentation by the great Vincenzo.  We skipped the second dinner. 

 

Polo Grill (Steakhouse): 5 out of 10. Rated #4 of the specialty restaurants. We did not like it as a group, so I cancelled my second reservation. My Prime Rib queen cut was really great but just warm like it was sitting under a heat lamp. The service was awful. We asked for water, wine, and drinks multiple times and to no avail. The plates were cold, the food was lukewarm and, as so many have mentioned, not cooked to the temperature requested. For a small steakhouse, all the food seemed pre-prepared so in some cases cold and just did not taste good.  Not everyone’s opinion on the ship is so relative to the person.   Before I get comments on this statement, “Yes I told the GM (Emma) and the Restaurant Manager”.  Both asked me to try it again and I smiled and just did not take them up on the offer. 

 

Normal Restaurants:

The Grand Dining Room: 7 out of 10. This is the Main Dining Room for my NCL Haven friends.  Our service was GREAT, but our dinner and lunch foods were average to below average.  HOWEVER, I ate breakfast with my friend every single day and we loved the breakfast.  The NCL Haven Restaurant is hands down much better than Oceania’s Grand Dining Room and there is no comparison. 

 

Waves Grille: 8 out of 10. This to most of us would be the Pool Grille.  The burgers and fries were really good. We ate here for several days lunch.  When the ship docked at 11:00 AM or later, we would eat on the ship.  The Terrace Café’s (Buffet) was just around the corner so LOTS of options. Interesting that they cook your burger to order and bring it to you.  To my Crystal Cruise friends, like what they did on Crystal however Crystal has a GREAT steak sandwich which still holds the price.

 

Terrace Café’ (Buffet):  7 out of 10. About what you would expect, but more than slightly better quality and service.  Some of my guests were picky, however I like the variety, quality, and service.  At dinnertime they sometimes had themes.  Yes, they will cook to order steaks, Lamb Chops, and Lobster Tails to order for you at night if not a theme night.  NOTE: On most all Lobster dishes, they were below average, over cooked, dry, and not worth the selection.  The only deviation was in Red Ginger which was really good. I only bring this up because it seems to be a hot CruiseCritic.com topic.  Again, to my Haven Friends, the lobster tails in the Haven Restaurant were always excellent and no comparison.  Just a FYI on that one.

 

Afternoon Tea in Horizons:  Excellent and I mean from start to finish.  Service, Food, and Music.  We only did it twice, but it is an experience I will not soon forget.  The tiny sandwiches were great. Busy trip or we all would have done it every day.  Take it from me, just do it and be open minded.

 

Executive Lounge: for Penthouse and above only.  Went twice.  Nice concept, simply NO need for it for my enjoyment.  Now with a Concierge Stateroom where you have no butler, they have a Concierge Lounge.  That will be a better option for that level of stateroom.

 

Snacks in the Room and Room Service:  Nice concept, did the snacks once in my suite and skipped them for the rest of the cruise except for the Chocolate covered strawberries.  All we wanted was a small bowl of pretzels and nuts. We did get the butler to give us Special Coffee with Danishes every morning from Barista’s. Our friends had breakfast the first day and it was less than good, so they skipped from that point forward.  You must take the good with the bad.  For my NCL Haven Friends, when you order room service breakfast, ALWAYS get it from the Haven Restaurant and you must ask your butler to do so.  That breakfast is usually very good.  That is a difference to note.

 

Bars:  We only went to Martini’s (10 out of 10) and the Pool bar (8 out of 10).  Martinis was our place and we tried lots of great drinks.  My favorite was “Big O” Martini.  Sorry to the CruiseCritic.com poster that asked me for the recipe. I did not find out how it was made, I simply forgot. We never went to the other bars except the pool bar. 

 

Barista’s (Coffee): 10 out of 10. The only place for a great coffee period.  For my Haven Friends it was always complementary.  Better than Starbucks on the NCL ships by far.  As mentioned, in the morning, before you go to breakfast, get your coffee at Barista’s then take it to breakfast.  Not my idea.  An idea I got from someone on this Oceania CruiseCritic.com Board.

 

Mini Bar in the Suite:  Soft drinks, water and juices are complementary.  When you arrive, you are given one bottle of VERY NICE real French Champagne.  NCL Haven Friends, not sparkling wine.  Real Champagne.  Gone day one and was very good. It was nice not to have the Room Seward must take all the stuff out of the stateroom on day one because they were all for sale.  Just an appreciated difference.

 

Drink Programs/Packages: If I ever get an Oceania, Vista, or Owners Suite again, I will NOT get the upgraded drink unlimited drink program called the Prestige Package.  Waste of money under those circumstances. However, for all other staterooms, it suited me nicely.  For my NCL Haven friends, Oceania recently changed their fee fare structure, so everyone has a Wine/Beer and Champagne at ONLY Lunch and Dinner which is in all fare.  To upgrade to unlimited with spirits, it is $30.00 a day, per guest.  Also note that Oceania has two, “2 for 1” happy hours a day so if you just have an occasional drink, review the programs carefully.  On my last cruise on NCL, the White Wine was horrible.  I mean really bad even with the NCL upgraded Premium PLUS Drink Program.  The White Wine on Oceania was very good.  Also different from NCL.  Oceania allows you to bring on board 6 bottles of wine or spirits.  Every port, I bought one or two bottles of wine for my wife for the Suite.  I like the ability to bring wine/spirits on board like the “Old Days”.  The only deal is if you take your wine to dinner, there is a cork charge but no charge if you drink your wine in your stateroom. Do your due diligence, you will thank me. NCL benefits are different so again, do your due diligence.

 

Water On Board: 9 out of 10. Excellent reusable, sustainable and refillable.  What a great idea and no plastic bottles. At first, I did not think I would like this.  From the first drink, it was just fine.  I think the system is called Vero Water.  Oceania gives you two stainless steel containers to take with you to the ports.  Nice touch and nice when you get home also. This has a cost on NCL even in some Haven.  Notice the small items that are different which is what my Haven friends wanted too here.

 

Entertainment: 6.5 out of 10

NCL wins hands down, no contest so if you want that kind of entertainment, skip Oceania.  No Go-Cart Tracks, NO wall climbing, NO Virtual Reality, NO Lasor Tag, and NO water slides.  The Shows were Hit and mostly misses.  The Guest Singer was GREAT but only did two (2) shows.  Just like food, subjective. The piano player in Martini’s was very good, every night.  The strings were very good every time they played. The house band at the pool and Horizons late night (not very late) was always very good. You have options, choose wisely.

 

The Cooking Classes: 9 out of 10. I loved it and my wife was so/so on it.  One interesting fact.  We learned that when using Rose, use a tiny amount.  If you use too much, it tastes like dish soap.  I bought a bag of cookies at a bakery at one of the ports.  It tasted like dish soap.  We both immediately knew why, and the cookies got tossed.

 

Onboard Internet: 7 out of 10. Sometimes good and sometime well you know.  We are on a cruise ship.  Stay home for great internet.  I upgraded our Internet to Streaming for a bit more once onboard.

 

Casino: Small, casual and for me profitable.  I waited until the last night.  I check my account for how much was on it which is my judge for how much I must win.  My wife bought a purse onboard, and we had the upgrade to the internet.  I NEVER take my wife to a casino because she makes me nervous when I gamble.  I won all the money in 10 minutes plus extra for lots of extra tips.  Then I walked away a winner.

 

The Vista Suite: 8 out of 10.

For my NCL Haven Fans, the Vista Suite I stayed in was very close to the Haven (H2) Owners Suite with Large Balcony on the NCL Joy, Encore, and Bliss.  The difference as I shared before was, they pulled the outdoor furniture before departing.  On NCL, they never did that.   

 

The Vista Suite was HUGE, the deck was half the front of the ship with an outdoor hot tub which we never used.  A four-person dining table outside which we used once, was a nice touch.  Blue Tooth throughout the suite from your phone which was very easy to use and great sound through Bose Speakers was awesome.  The master bathroom was huge with a supersized Jacuzzi.  Second FULL bathroom which I used all the time was as you enter the room.  The makeup area was in the corner of the bedroom.  The beds were fantastic. Really best at sea so far.

 

Great Room again was huge with a dining room table for four.  NCL Haven fans, you can order from ANY Specialty Restaurant through your butler with Penthouse or above any dinner time.  This gives Penthouse or above the ability to have specialty restaurant every single night.  That, my friends, is a nice perk and since it is complementary, better than the NCL Haven.

 

Talking about perks.  We got three gifts for the Vista Suite which is not available for Penthouse or below.  1) A huge gift box of high-end toiletries.  Super nice. 2) A very high-end beach bag with Oceania Branded hats, towels, and other things. 3) On the last day, which I think everyone gets two metal Oceania luggage tags. If you are in a high-end Suite, leave room in your luggage for all the stuff.

 

The downside was the bedroom temp was super cold for a couple of days which I finally got fixed.  Some folks have a hard time with the “Home Automation” Lights.  I have these at home, so it was easy for me. The table lamps in the main great room need to be turned off by hand.  The room is very loud when they dock, especially early.  There is a sour smell when they leave the port like they are emptying the black tank.  Neither last long but it was noticed. The deck is impossible to use due to wind while sailing.  The exercise room which is gone from the new ships is a waste of space on this ship. 

 

As I said above, “One and Done” unless I get a crazy deal again.  If so, I will opt for an Oceania Suite which has a deck on the side and a TV room. The bigger the suite is not always better.  The Penthouse suites are excellent and larger than most NCL Haven Suites at 440 sf.  Save the money is my opinion in the future. Don’t want a butler, go down one category to a Concierge Stateroom, which is lovely.

 

Transfers:  I did not use Oceania for transfers. At first it was a little scary, but it all worked out. All were done online, pre-paid, and the services were reasonable, on-time and professional. I hate Cruise Brand Transfers with the buses and waiting for those that are late so why not do it yourself. Google Search is our friend.  Another word of advice.  I asked both hotels what they charged for the same service, and it was usually four times more than what I paid. Do a little research. 

 

Ports & Excursions:

As many of you know, I did a lot of preparation before traveling.  I did NOT want to do Oceania, Air, Hotel or Excursions.  All of which for me and my way of traveling was correct and now confirmed.  It also saved us a lot of money in all categories. 

 

We did the “Hoop on Hoop Off” buses and trains.  Had a list of 8 places to go in each port but only did two. The key is we made the choice based on how we felt, so we were in complete control.  Never rushed off the ship or rushed to get back on.  I always had the best way to get from the cruise ship to City Central.  We stayed in a hotel the day before and the day after the cruise, which made the experience that much better. 

 

If you want my thoughts on each port, it really won’t matter to you.  Every port is to your taste on what you want to do.  I will say, if you have mobility issues, skip the walk through the Sistine Chapel. When possible, get your attraction tickets online and have it on your phone.  Saves time and in some cases money.  This includes train or bus tickets.  Make sure you can cancel them if the port is cancelled, which happens all the time.

 

Getting Off the Ship the Last Day:

Smooth sailing ALL the way.  We had a great breakfast at the Grand Dining Room.  Waited until 08:30 AM.  Walked off, got help with our bags and got in a Taxi Van super quick which I pre-ordered online.  No fuss, no muss.  Straight to the "Hotel Arts Barcelona" a Ritz Carlton Hotel which was lovely.

 

At all ports we always left the ship one hour after it arrived to miss the crowd.  Worked great. Just a thought if you are doing your own excursions vs. using Oceania.

 

Conclusion: Cruise 9 out of 10

Cruises are what you make of them.  Smile, have a good attitude and make it fun for the crew.  Yes, you heard me right, make it fun for the crew and your time will be so much better.  I was having such a good time, on day two, I went to say hello to “Emma” the General Manager and said thank you.  She always said hello when she saw me on deck. 

 

Did things go wrong, YES. Where there some misses at meal, YES. Was the entertainment always great, NO.  Where there are a few issues with my suite, YES.  Did any of it matter so much that my cruise was negative, ABSOLUTELY NOT. Attitude is everything.  Did my group get loud, make fools out of ourselves from time to time, YES.  Did we get some looks from some of the other Guests, YES. Then they came and joined us and were welcomed. Were some folks inappropriately dressed for some restaurants, YES.  Did we dress correctly, YES.  Did it affect our enjoyment that others dressed too casually, NO.  This is Oceania not Queen Mary.  I mean NO disrespect by that statement.  Just the way I feel.  To each their own and let it be like “water off a duck”.

We booked two cabins on a cruise onboard the Oceania Vista ship, Concierge Stateroom for October 2025.  I will watch sales, for a four-category upgrade or other special promotions.  This time, I think that won’t be an option because the date is in October vs. November.  However, I will watch for it.  The onboard special was 5% off for booking so far in advance (2025).  $400.00 off the stateroom price which goes up with each category above.  $250.00 per stateroom of On-Board-Credit and for this upcoming sailing the “Simply More” program with two (2) device internet, Lunch/Dinner Wine Package and I think $600.00 per stateroom excursion credit.  My travel agent had a special so this time, she will pay gratuities, which is nice.  The reduced deposit was $250.00 per person, which was also nice.  Please remember, for ANY cancelation, the new Oceania policy is you will be charged a $150.00 cancelation fee NO exceptions.

 

A side note and not meant to be advice for anyone.  I gave a donation to the “Crew Cruise Fund”, gave extra to my favorite bartenders/servers.  I took care of my butler and room Seward with extra.  The amounts were personal, but I am very generous to those that treat my party nicely.  You do you.

This was my favorite cruise of ALL time.  My wife had a great time, which is not always the case.  For the first time, we saw places that we had never really seen before.  First real port intensive cruise ever and in the Mediterranean.  Very different and interesting for both of us.  Our friends were completely blown away. 

 

The proof is we booked another cruise onboard. I will answer any questions you have but I was obviously very detailed.  Hope for those that wanted details, I did not disappoint. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

 

 

[quillwercruisers]

I always love reading your posts and reviews. Thank you very much for the detailed and honest comparisons. I love NCL and have always been hesitant to try the other lines because of the dress code (we really are not dress up kind of people) and them not having the "Freestyle" cruising, but might have to take a look and see.

 

Thanks again and glad that you enjoyed your cruise!!

Edited November 22, 2023 by quillwercruisers
added words.

[Sthrngary]

21 minutes ago, quillwercruisers said:

I always love reading your posts and reviews. Thank you very much for the detailed and honest comparisons. I love NCL and have always been hesitant to try the other lines because of the dress code (we really are not dress up kind of people) and them not having the "Freestyle" cruising, but might have to take a look and see.

 

Thanks again and glad that you enjoyed your cruise!!

@quillwercruisers I  did not dress any differently then I did on my NCL cruises.  Some folks were VERY casual.  That is OK but at dinner, in a specialty restaurant or the grand dining room, country club casual is easy.  I think you will enjoy it. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

 

To all my NCL Haven Friends, Post 19 is the Full Reviews.  FYI ONLY

Edited November 22, 2023 by Sthrngary

[CDR Benson]

Thank you for the trip report, sir.  Oceania has long interested me.

 

We depart on our Regent Seven Seas cruise in three days.  It'll see how it compares to both the NCL Haven and your experience.  Your detailed post will serve as a fine checklist.

 

Welcome back!

 

 

[Yesimapirate]

What's your October 2025 trip? I have one booked for then as well.

[Sthrngary]

2 hours ago, CDR Benson said:

We depart on our Regent Seven Seas cruise in three days.

@CDR Benson Sir, I can tell you right now that your RSSC is going to be hands down over the top.  You deserve it and you are one of my favorite folks to talk with online.  RSSC makes life much easier and I will give you one reason.  On Oceania because there are so many options for the drink program, you always have to give your card.  RSSC everyone has the same drink package.  Not saying you drink or it matters, it is just an example of one of many major difference.  

 

I can't wait to read your thoughts and thank you for always being so positive. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

[Sthrngary]

1 hour ago, Yesimapirate said:

What's your October 2025 trip? I have one booked for then as well.

@Yesimapirate October 13, 2025, on the Oceania Vista.  Mediterranean again but mostly different ports. 10 days that starts in Monte Carlo and ends in Venice. 

 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.