Celebrity Purist Must Switch to HAL for Dec 09 Cruise--Any Big Differences in Cruise

[moondoggie]

We have been sailing Celebrity exclusively for ten years, but my dear sister and I are cruising in early December 09 to celebrate her 55th BD--and we must switch to HAL Eurodam for an itinerary she likes.

 

Can anyone tell me what they think are the big differences between X and HAL, so we can be prepared for them? Cabins are not a problem, as we both want insides and spend most of our time reading on deck (away from loud pool activities!) and talking--we live far apart, and try to get together withour our husbands and kids periodically!

 

I am also considering the 'anytime' dining program, so that we can meet lots of other people each evening--got any thoughts on this program? I'll also post this on the HAL board.

 

Thanks, cruisers!

 

ps--I'm on Solstice in January with my DH--two cruises in two months--heaven!

[Morris4me]

I have never sailed on Celebrity (first cruise with them coming up, though!) and have sailed HAL once. The service on HAL was the best I've ever experienced on any cruise. The staff greets you by name every time they see you, they remember your preferences whether it be reg. coffee or decaf or what kind of wine you prefer and they are outwardly friendly. From what I've read on these boards, Celebrity's service is much the same so you should have a wonderful cruise. Enjoy!

[Fblack]

We have sailed both cruise lines many times. We like them both. HAL has free cappuccino and espresso, free popcorn at the movies, generally bigger cabins, and a very nice and helpful staff. You should enjoy the cruise.

[mjs107]

Having sailed many times with RCCl we've decided that it's no longer quite right for us. We have our first cruise booked on HAL in 6 weeks time and our first with Celebrity in autumn. I'm looking forward to seeing the similarities and differences. Can't wait!

[barbels]

From what you write you should be fine on the Eurodam. My main complaint with HAL is that all and I mean all evening activities are geared to early diners. There is also not enough live music around the pool for me , but this sounds like it will be a plus for you. Cabins are better on HAl; food is about the same, with a slight edge to X and service is great on both lines.

[Ine]

We have sailed X and HAL various times and we like them both.

Apart from all mentioned above, the beds on HAL are great, much better then on X.

Also the shipofficers are seen more during the day and very willing to talk with the passengers.

I am sure you will like HAL.

[zoncom]

Interesting question. Been on X 8xs, HAL once, both within last 3 months. Masdam & Solstice. Chose M for its 14 day Carib. itinerary; X for its food. Differences that mattered to me ( I also book insides, dont do shows or bingo.) Hals lack of sophistication. Dining room food was meat, potatoes, veg. Same in Pinnacle Grill. Felt like 50s food. I missed the international flavor of Celebritys staff; felt waitstaff had little food knowledge & could care less. Liked the BYOB wine policy on HAL. Also excellent ice cream in Lido. Nice expresso in MDR. Cappachino soso. Solstice has better pools. I feel HAL has better itins on its longer voyages. They both now have open seatig but you have to make dinner res. on HAL in Lido in AM to get a seat without waiting a half hour which without waiting a half hour which to me is odd.

[takemewithyou]

This may be stating the obvious to you.....

Lots of smokers on HAL- don't know if that will bother you.

They can smoke on the balconies and IN their cabin.

And in the casino and in the Crow's Nest and on some ships, in a portion of the Ocean Bar.

[helenp2]

We have sailed both lines multiple times. They are similar in many ways. Dining room service on X is excellent but we prefer the food on HAL. HAL's lido food is by far the best we have had on any line. If you are seeking peace and quiet you can not beat the beautiful teak chairs on the Promanade deck on HAL. These chairs are the perfect place to sit, nap, watch the ocean and just plain relax.

 

As mentioned earlier, the beds on HAL are fantastic and again we have yet to experience any better even on Cunard & Regent. One other thing that we love on HAL is that their pool decks have lots of comfortable loungers and it never seems to be too crowded. Not sure but the last time we were on X I seem to remember having to carry a beach towel with me to the pool. On HAL you can have as many as you wish as they are constantly being replenished by the pool stewards.

 

We do enjoy the welcome and drinks offered on X and also love the cold towels offered when returning from shore.

 

Not sure if your cruise will stop at Half Moon Cay but if it does this is a must see. Fabulous beach and good luch served right on the beach.

 

Enjoy, I'm sure you'll feel right at home.

[New Hampshire]

Never sailed on HAL but have sailed 8 times on Celebrity. I never had to carry a towel to the pool. You can have as many towels at the pool as you want. On RCCL, you are issued one towel that you have to bring to the pool with you. Just sailed on Solstice in April. We slept on the most comfortable beds we have ever slept on at sea. We have done 19 cruises.

[moondoggie]

i forgot about this! Celebrity is much more restrictive on smokers--which we love. Hope we are able to work around those who insist on smoking. Glad we haven't booked a balcony cabin...