Nautilus vs. underwater observatory

[Bahama Mama 40]

We are trying to decide between the Nautilus semi-submersible and the underwater observatory on the list of RCL excursions. They sound very similar but the underwater observatory is quite a bit cheaper. Just wondered if anyone knows the difference. Thanks!

[disneymomtwo]

I posted a similar question a few days back and haven't gotten any responses. Can anyone advise about the semi-sub tour options??? Sailing in 9 days!:confused:

[disneymomtwo]

Bahama Mama 40 - I've been searching through the posts to try and get answer....Here's a post related to the two options that I ran across - they are older, so not sure if anything's changed since the hurricane?

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=72445&highlight=nautilus

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=50990&highlight=nautilus

 

From what I'm reading, there seems to be a preference for Nautilus. But, I also found posts from members who liked Seaworld Explorer.

[gorditaRN]

Bahama Mama 40,

I am also trying to decide between these excursions. I think since those post are alittle old they might night be too reliable anymore. A web site Atlantisadventures.com has a good pic of the vessel where nautilus does not.

[Bonnie Voyager]

I am resurrecting this thread because I too would like to know what the difference is between the Nautilus underwater observatory tour and the "Cayman underwater observatory" tour that RCCL lists in their excursions. Nautilus is more expensive. Does anyone know which vessel is used for the RCCl tour? (the Cayman underwater observatory tour). I am holding reservations on both tours. The "Cayman underwater observatory" tour is cheaper AND is more adequate for our schedule, but I don't mind paying more and changing my schedule if the cheaper tour is not worthwhile. Has anyone been on this tour?

[twinkletoes4445]

I think there are two different types of subs...one actually goes under the water, and one just skims the surface.

 

Here's the website for the Atlantis...

 

http://www.atlantisadventures.com/tour_info.php?site=5&tour=149

 

Here's the website for the Nautilus...

 

http://www.nautilus.ky/?page=cruise

 

When I asked about the Atlantis, I was told that if we did do this, to try and sit on the left side (when facing the pilot). They get a better view that the ones sitting on the right. I don't know if this is true or not, because we ended up not doing either of them.

 

 

 

I think the difference in the cost is because the one actually goes under the water. At least that's what I seem to remember. I do remember that my kids wanted no part in that, but when I tried to book the Nautilus, it was fully booked for the week.