Suze10860

Six days to go.

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ixsay

We were very disappointed not to go to Great Stirrup, we were looking forward to it big time. I'm beginning to think there is something going on with Norwegian and skipping GSC, and these "medical" Emergencies that make them go so fast to get home. Something smells fishy.

 

Now for my review of the good, the bad, and the ugly.

 

1) Good: HAVEN. Everything HAVEN was awesome! From Eugene & Nelson our steward and butler, to the private pool, to the private restaurant bar. Thank god for Haven, or our whole trip would haven't been as good. MIXX bar, and Rho the bartender. He was great!

 

2) Bad: Above. No stop at GSC sucked big time.

 

3) Ugly: a) ALL THE TVS ON THE BOAT WERE STUCK ON THE SAME CRAPPY CHANNEL, AND THE COLORS ON THAT CHANNEL WERE ONLY GREEN AND RED. EVERY BAR, EVERY LOUNGE, EVERY TV, EXCEPT THE ONE IN OUR ROOM WERE STUCK ON THIS CRAPPY SOCCER CHANNEL THAT EVERYONE WAS COMPLAINING ABOUT.

b)Getting on and off the ship, was also UGLY. Especially getting back on after excursions, with the NCL staff dancing/blocking our way onto the ship, while people are stepping on our heals.

c) For such a big ship, it rocked like crazy. Don't let anyone tell you ships don't sway. This thing was rocking the entire trip.

 

Overall, the cruise was ok, but could have been better. Not sure if we will do Norwegian again. Our time on Carnival last year was better, and no issues stopping at their private island (the highlight of our cruise last year).

I could have sworn I read that the waters were really rough. Isn't that why there was no stop at GSC? Do you really think that NCL is doing something intentional to not stop there and/or to arrive back in NYC early? Do you think they are "fake" medical emergencies? Really?

Thanks for the responses. I get it.

But honestly, as I said in my original post, if I were spending extra money for the passes and/or cabana, I probably would feel compelled to spend a decent amount of time there. But that's just me. I'd need to justify (to myself only) the extra money.

And really, that's why CC is so wonderful. It's a great way to get this type of information and others' opinions on things. Since booking our April 3 cruise about 2 months ago, we've made a couple of big decisions about what we'll be doing and how we'll be spending our time and money. We made the decision not to go for an upsell to the Haven and not to even make an attempt to get Vibe passes. The way we look at it, that's $1,160 we've saved by reading here. For us, our large mini suite balcony is all we need to make this the relaxing vacation we're looking for.

I'm actually happy I started this thread because it sort of did confirm our decision not to go for Vibe passes. But don't get me wrong - I'm very happy for everyone who gets them...whether they use them for 1 hour during the cruise or 12 hours each day!!

Thanks ~

I saw Gentleman Jack but prefer the Woodford

Thank you Lou. My husband is not a fan of "Jack" in general. Of his favorites, Woodford is the only one I've ever seen mentioned on any menus, etc., but I thought I'd see if perhaps there was something else hidden out there.

Thank you and I'm really happy you had a nice relaxing cruise. Did I mention that I cannot wait until this Sunday!?!?!?!

I feel like I see this quite a bit on CC. People get a Vibe pass or a Vibe cabana (which everyone always seems to love having) but they report back that there were cabanas empty all week and that the area itself was never crowded.

Considering that it's unanimous that Vibe seems to always sell-out and people are very anxious to be onboard early so they can have access, who do you think all of these people are that are purchasing but not using the passes?

Maybe I'm too frugal, but I know that if I spend the money, I would darn sure be using the area every opportunity I had.

Anyone here on CC ever get the passes and then really not use them?

And I do understand that sometimes the area is full and all cabanas are being used, but I definitely see posts where people say that it's not crowded and cabanas are empty. Just a curiosity question really.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Thanks for the nice to-the-point and very helpful review. You had my husband at "Woodford Reserve," but I'll just ask out of curiosity: any other nice Bourbons to be had?

We are sailing this Sunday. Cannot wait.

We went on 3/12 (I think). Salad bar was amazing.

Was on Mar 13 2016 -the salad bar was lacking ... each year seems less and less.

And this is what makes the world such an interesting place. Two different people; two different perspectives.

I can't wait to eat there myself! Thanks to all for posting.

A little off topic, but this thread has certainly wandered away anyhow...

My husband and I stayed at a really popular little hotel in Chicago - above a very "hip" bar. There were about 8 rooms. All of them had glass bathrooms. Some had frosted glass, some had clear glass, some had a combination of both. Bottom line - you could pretty much see anything going on in there.

On their website they're cute about it. They suggest not booking a room unless you are very comfortable with your roommate!! We dealt with it - wasn't really an issue. Of course it was just me and my husband. I definitely don't think I'd like it if we were at an earlier stage in our lives...with kids around. Little kids, fine. My 20-something son was probably horrified just to visit us in the room and think about his parents in there. Can't even imagine if you had adolescent children. I said I was ok with it, but definitely not that ok. :)

I just thought it was interesting.

Glad to help. Just an FYI.. The regular balconies on the Breakaway and Getaway are really small. Smallest of any ship we've been on. It's hard even turn the chairs forward, or your legs will hit the balcony glass. They have them facing each other. Not sure what category your friends are booking. Just a heads up.

Thanks again, and for sure on those tiny balconies!! That's why we booked the mini with the large balcony. Money is definitely a bit of an issue for them, so that's why they're leaning towards a balcony guarantee. So inexpensive right now. While I'm sure they would like a bigger balcony (who wouldn't) they are definitely not lounge around type of people.

Thanks for the comparisons. And while I agree that I don't care for the artwork on the NCL ships, I have no problem getting past it.

Thanks guys. I'm really hoping they come....

Background- Platinum on NCL, 3 star with HAL. We'll be on the Nieuw Amsterdam in 10 days, we were on her last year about the same time. Most recently on the Escape in December and again in February.

 

BIG difference in the lines. HAL has a much older demographic. As a result, different entertainment options. You'll find string quartets, cooking demonstrations, traditional shows in the show rooms. Most all bars and all dining( except room service) close by 11:00 PM. No kids pools, no slides, rock walls, ropes courses,etc. It's a much more sedate environment. Very few children compared to NCL. Its a very relaxing experience. If you want to recharge, this is the line. The service is much better than NCL. While some disagree, I think the food is similar, each line has it's good and bad.

 

We were on the Breakaway in September. Even though NY school was back in, there were still 1200 kids on our cruise. NCL promo's 3rd and 4th in cabin free from time to time. April 3rd I'd expect kids.

 

There's lots of activity, both day and night on NCL. Outdoor parties in Spice, just about every night. and dancing in Bliss. There's more entertainment, from Headliners, to the Broadway shows. 24 hour O'sheehan's pub, for late night grub. NCL has a much, much more active vibe. But, it does feel more crowded than a HAL ship. That's partly due to it's size( pool deck is a little crazy on sea days). Partly due to more of the passengers being out and active day and night. It's not bad, just not particularly relaxing. You have to look for relaxation more on NCL. It hits you in the face on HAL. JMHO

 

I hope you all enjoy your cruise.

Thanks you so much for that detailed response. Just the kind of info I'm looking for. And your description of relaxing on the Breakaway makes me realize that my large balcony (mini suite) will be perfect. Thanks again.

I posted this on the NCL board too....

Here's an interesting situation. I think that a couple we are friends with is going to wait until the very last minute, and then book on our April 3 Breakaway cruise (at a really nice price.) They have only cruised once before, and not only was it on HAL, but they didn't pay for themselves! Her parents did. (Sweet, right?)

So I'm really hoping they come with us, but my only concern is what their expectations might be having only sailed once before on a line that is (I think) very different than NCL. They also sailed out of Florida, so the itinerary was definitely a little more exciting than the Breakaway out of NY itinerary. We don't really cruise so much for the ports. It's more about getting away and relaxing for us.

They are in their mid-40's and lots of fun. They like to stay active and I'm sure they'd want to take advantage of excursions at each port. (This is unlike my husband and I who enjoy nothing more than chilling on our balcony as often as possible.) I think our plan is more to be independent during the days, then get together to take advantage of our UBP's and have fun each night.

Anyone who has sailed both lines - thoughts on any information I might share with them so they're not caught too off guard by the differences, both good and bad?

Thanks!

Here's an interesting situation. I think that a couple we are friends with is going to wait until the very last minute, and then book on our April 3 Breakaway cruise (at a really nice price.) They have only cruised once before, and not only was it on HAL, but they didn't pay for themselves! Her parents did. (Sweet, right?)

So I'm really hoping they come with us, but my only concern is what their expectations might be having only sailed once before on a line that is (I think) very different than NCL. They also sailed out of Florida, so the itinerary was definitely a little more exciting than the Breakaway out of NY itinerary. We don't really cruise so much for the ports. It's more about getting away and relaxing for us.

They are in their mid-40's and lots of fun. They like to stay active and I'm sure they'd want to take advantage of excursions at each port. (This is unlike my husband and I who enjoy nothing more than chilling on our balcony as often as possible.) I think our plan is more to be independent during the days, then get together to take advantage of our UBP's and have fun each night.

Anyone who has sailed both lines - thoughts on any information I might share with them so they're not caught too off guard by the differences, both good and bad?

Thanks!

Along with the cabin restrooms on the Epic, that most of the rest of world find nothing wrong with.

Huh?

I live in the UK and as a restauranteur am allowed to give 16 years olds beer wine or cider (cider ***) am I allowed to say that ?, with their meals. I have also been on an unbeknown to me US spring break cruise. Oh gosh, so very awful. Puking teens everywhere. Wanted my money back. Those kids had never had a wine or beer and were let loose on the rest of the world. Bless them.

 

Drinking is fine as long as you do not abuse it.. As an Italian/ Latvian family we introduced our children to wine quite early. We appreciate the flavours and little kick back from a fine wine. Our children have never felt the need to go out and 'get plastered' and ashame themselves. They are now in their mid 40's and still enjoy a drink but not too excess.

 

I think that molly-coddling children ,when they should be adults by 18 , is a huge mistake.

I agree with you totally. I think it's a cultural thing in this country that we don't seem anywhere near changing.

I know I need a drink right about now.....

Me too! And I give you permission to make one for my 17 year old kid. KIDDING. KIDDING. Both of my darlings are well over 21. Just couldn't resist.

If you want a cabin that isn't connecting then just pay more to pick your cabin

 

 

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For someone who is going on his/her first cruise in November 2016, you have some strong opinions on how others should cruise.

I still don't understand why drinking is a requirement to have a good time. Rules are rules. The military has nothing to do with anything. In my opinion, when I spend thousands of dollars on vacation, I want to remember it. That being said, I doubt a waiver would be accepted for the friend since you aren't the legal parent/guardian. I would just not sign the waiver for either of them.

 

 

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And if the OP asked for opinions on "what are the requirements for having a good time" and opinions on "18 year old drinking" and opinions on "what type of person enlists in the military" and opinions on "who are better citizens - college students or enlisted military" and.....well you get my drift.

But the OP didn't ask any of these things. If the OP says that their 18 year old can drink wine and beer on a cruise, and NCL says they can, and they have the permission of the parents of their child's friend, then no one else's opinion matters. They are doing NOTHING wrong. Why do people feel the need to be so freaking judgmental. Grrrrrrrrrr. Makes me crazy.

One day as he was delivering our afternoon snacks, we were engaged in a short very pleasant conversation about himself, his family, etc. when his phone rings 'yes one Mudslide? Yes, thank you I will bring it right up". He excused himself to go and fetch the mudslide for the cabin. I said to my husband - really? calling the butler for a bar drink to be delivered? "Get you own dasm Mudslide" became our little phrase. I must admit I was kind of shocked that someone would call the butler to get them a drink from the bar. Requesting M&Ms sure. Dinner, breakfast, I understand - it was lovely having breakfast brought in one morning complete with linens and silverware, but a phone call for a bar drink? If you created a standing request for a drink to be delivered at a certain time every day, yes OK, but an on the fly request for a bar drink is a bit over the top to me.

I LOVE this. Stealing it!

It's over the top for me, too.

Maybe a bottle of wine or champagne, but not a single drink.

 

To each their own.

I'll get my own mudslide.

I'm with you guys on this. Which is probably part of the reason I decided to stop even trying to get an upsell to the Haven on our upcoming 4/3 cruise. I know I'm not the type of person to ever want to "put the butler out" in any way, and it would probably bug me to see other people doing it!! I'd end up wanting to help the poor guy.

I know. I know. To each his own. I'm better off just staying out of there.

I always laugh when someone tries to play the "they can fight and die for their country at 18" card. They can, but most don't. DH was a weapons instructor for many years in the army. Trust me, 18 year olds are told when to eat, when to sleep, when to use the latrine and when to clean it.

Sorry. I don't get what you're saying here. Because the majority of 18-year old military personnel don't die, it's something at which you find you want to laugh? Not trying to be snarky. I truly don't understand what you're trying to get across.

Wealth Envy gets you nowhere. Be happy for what you have.

I can only speak for myself, but I guarantee you this has nothing to do with wealth envy. That's a pretty big assumption.

People are only underpaid because of their own choices. If an employer is offering a job a $X and you do not think that $X is sufficient pay for that job then do not take the job. The free market system sets prices and wages, and when allowed to work, it does a damn fine job of it.

There are so many things incorrect about your statement here (in my opinion.) But this forum is not the place for that argument. From your 2 replies to my post, plus this one here, I can see that we fall on very opposite sides of certain issues. I'm walking away right now. I've learned there is nothing to be gained by online "discussions" of this type.

Have a lovely day.

Not to turn this into politics, but its not half this board, its half the United States that seem fasicated and are concerend about what other people make.

Well I guess this is political, but rather than being "fascinated" I'm actually appalled. You know, what with all of the uproar in some states with how much money our teachers and police officers make. I mean, you see cops and educators all the time on "wealthiest people" lists, right?

But heck - what's really more important. Compensating the people who are responsible for our children on a daily basis, and the ones who put their lives on the line to protect us OR is it the CEO of a major corporation? We have messed up priorities in this country...

So, to stay on point, I think that might be the reason some people do find this information very interesting.

Thanks all!!! You have made my DW very happy!!!!

As my husband says: Happy wife, happy life!!!