ALPHYL

I am glad you cancelled your Bliss cruise. I have written about many of my own complaints from a Bliss cruise July 14-21.

I too was travelling with 3 kids(my grandchildren) and their Dad.

I have cruised in past in what many readers on CC believe are luxury ships(Oceania,Azamara,&Regent). But this time I chose

Bliss because of its supposedly kid-friendly atmosphere. Well there was nothing kid-friendly about it. They were 12,10 and 8.

All the supposedly stuff for kids was either sold out, or had restrictions on weight and height. In your case it might be a divisive

rather than a great experience--the 9 year-old won't be able to go on either the go karts or the big water slide--and your two older ones probably will make the height and weight. Can you imagine how happy the 9 year old will be then.

I have so many complaints about the ship that I intend to write the President of NCL. I will also post it on Cruise Critic and Trip Advisor. The problems on the ship are not merely about the "activities". Some of the savings that the Bliss has incorporated

(like 1-ply toilet tissue) are an insult. I think people in prison at least get proper TP.. And, as you may have read, they nickel

and dime you for everything.

But don't let cancelling the cruise spoil your plan to have a family holiday. Yes, take them to Europe. I started taking my kids

to Europe when they were quite young. Start with the UK. I have been to London about 50 times and I still haven't seen it all,

or if I have seen it, I see it again. Do your research--I am sure that there are tons of books out there about travelling with kids to London and the rest of the UK. as well as all the online info. They will experience history, pageantry, cathedrals, castles--that

are so much more lasting than a lap on a go-kart. New foods-- if they are adventurous, or authentic food that they will love, To have lunch in a pub, or take them to afternoon tea.

My kids loved travel to Europe so much that all three of them now go back to different countries and cities they love with their spouses and their own kids. And the UK does not have to be expensive. You can have a great meal in a pub, or "the Sunday roast" on--guess what--Sunday.

There are so many gorgeous parks and places to eat outdoors. Go to the Changing of the Guard, go to see the Queen's Cavalry's stables. It is so easy to take the Tube. I haven't been in a London taxi for years--the subway is an attraction in itself. You could spend a lifetime in the British Museum (free) , the British Library, where in one room they have the 100 most famous things written. in a teeny display case you will find, on a paper napkin, the lyrics to "Imagine". If your kids know the Beatles they will have goose bumps, or, perhaps, like me, find your face wet from the emotion at seeing these iconic words.

Alaska no doubt is beautiful. But there are many beautiful places to see in the world. Come to my country--Canada. Right now the American dollar is worth .30 cents more than ours'. If you like mountains and glaciers go to Alberta to see Banff and Lake Louise. If you like oceans and seafood, go east--to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and especially PEI and Newfoundland.

Family trips are wonderful--and all you are missing by not going on the Bliss next year is a lot of aggravation.

Funny, but no one commented about how stupid it is to pay twice for dinner the same night. (The one you pay to eat in the specialty rooms and the wonderful "included" ones in the regulardining rooms that you missed.

Or that you have a buy a UDP rather than bringing your own booze and wine aboard with you. Or how about the awful water, when you get as much bottled SPRING water in your cabin as you want on a good ship--rather than having to pay for filtered water--which is just swill.

And as for dress, is that what a vacation means to you--being able to wear shorts. Then I think you should look for a ship that has several fast food restaurants on them

and you'll fit in beautifully.

Why don't you add up all the dinners you paid for, all the drinks you paid for, all the water you paid for--and-- I forgot your flights. Your mandatory tipping and not getting free transfers from the ship. Problem is everyone thinks a line like Regent, Azamara and Oceania are expensive. Truth is they probably work out to be less than the tubs run by NCL. Too bad you don't know what you are missing. Try it, you'll really like it.

As they say in my country-"chacun a son gout"--each to his own taste. As to the question about smokers and what Bliss staff did about it--1st time they came, look around on a deck about ours and left. 2nd time, I called and they said they would come. I waited an hour and they didn't come.

Re why did I book Bliss: I booked it because I was travelling with 3 kids. My cruise agent told me about all these activities that I knew my grandchildren would love. What they didn't say is: there are weight and height restrictions on the go karts and the large water slide. You could have a zillion reservations, and if the kids can't meet the

restrictions, it is a no go. Can you imagine the disappointment? Also, we were not told that there was an unlimited access pass (per day or per week) that was available for the go karts. Perhaps it is a good thing, because 2 out of the 3 kids were not tall enough to drive the karts and all three weighed too little for the slide. My son, a grown man, took my grandson's place on the slide and found it terrifying. And, as a person with professional race car training, he is certain there is going to be a horrific injury and/or a fatality on the track very soon.

As for specialty restaurants--is everyone on the Bliss so wealthy that they can afford to pay twice for dinner. You have already paid once in your fare. And then you pay and tip again in a different restaurant. On the so called "luxury" ships, the only payment in a specialty restaurant is a tip for your server. And, if you want to have a drink in your stateroom, bring your liquor of choice aboard in your luggage. Your cabin steward will even bring you mixes. You can drink your own booze in your cabin and drink your own wine at dinner. The only charge is a modest one for corkage.

As for excursions, I book my own private ones. They are 1/2 the price and twice as good as the ship ones. I have never been even close to missing a ship. Do you really think the tour company would allow that to happen? It just requires some research and reading Cruise Critic or Trip Advisor.

As for dress--if it is such a big deal to put on a pair of khakis and a polo shirt, or a pair of capris and a nice top, then I think you should stay in your backyard in your grubby shorts and t-shirts and spare me the sight of your hairy legs and fat bellies. And be sure to have a few beers while you're there.

Hi: To the cruiser who is thinking of cancelling his cruise on Bliss in 2019, I would do so asap. I am about to post my critique about the ship based on my recent cruise on it from July 14-21. There are many more criticisms than the many about the go carts. After several other cruises on other ships, I would never cruise on any NCL ship ever again. The Bliss's main goal was not to have happy passengers and great food and experiences.

It was to try and gouge you for everything (specialty restaurants, excursions,).We encountered sold out reservations before we had even

stepped on the ship. The thing they did best was make animals out of the towels after evening turndown. Of course we were all so aggravated (eg. people smoking on nearby balconies) that we barely slept. Try a better line--like Oceania. They attract a crowd who knows it is not an effort to put on a pair of chinos and a polo shirt for eating in the dining room. We had people wearing tank tops, short shorts, ripped jeans and hats--on. It is disgusting to eat in a beautiful room beside some guy's hairy legs and fat belly. And the drink packages encourage people to be drunk and loud all the time. Such a sickening example of the worst of behavior for my grandchildren. They may have a go cart track (dangerous) and a gigantic water slide (scary and dangerous,) but I want to cruise without the stress of running to make reservations the instant you get on board, or seeing both my son and grandson getting injured by some jerk on the go carts ride. Please change to another ship, another line. You won't regret it.

I have just returned from a Bliss cruise to Alaska (July 14-21). I will not talk here about the problems we had with even getting go-kart reservations or being unaware of the unlimited access pass.

I travelled with my son and his 3 children(ages 12,10 and 8). On their last run, both my son and my grandson(in separate cars) were injured by other cars/drivers who rammed into them.

My son has professional race car training. He was appalled at the staff who ran the ride--who did not make any attempt to deal with drivers who

fantasized (obviously) that they were in tryouts for spots on a Formula 1

team and drove recklessly and thus endangering everyone on the track.

My son believes that there will be a very serious injury very soon, or, heaven forbid-a fatality on that track. And NCL will be deservingly sued for a bundle.

It is time that somebody with NCL look at all the various excellent ideas posted here to ameliorate this situation. And, for those who drove drunk or want to try out for a racing team--you don't have to go on a family oriented cruise to Alaska. Please stay in your own town or city and not ruin our much anticipated trip.

Hey all fellow cruisers. I didn't realize my question was going to almost start a war.

Here is my final comment--and I hope all of yours'. Instead, go make a list of what you need to

take on your next trip trip, go pack, go google--just remember that this is my problem and I will

solve it in whatever legitimate ways available to me.Mind you it I must admit it was nice when some people agreed with me.

I accidentally left out an important reason for my need/preference for bottled SPRING water--which everyone is unaware of. I have very sensitive teeth and I can't drink ice water--which would be mostly what everyone suggested. Dasani and Aquafina are NOT Spring water, but actually the same stuff available on the ship--filtered water. And it is an additional way for Coke and Pepsi to ruin even more people's health and pocketbooks than with their soda pop. So even if the water in the cabin and the bars is filtered, it is probably going to have ice in it, or be ice cold, as that is the way most people prefer it.

I do not, and since I must consume a lot of water, it is easier to down it if it doesn't hurt your teeth.

So I never refrigerate my SPRING water, I keep it in various places in my house (like under the sink) where it is easily accessible. Also, I always have a bottle on my nightstand. I too have had the experience of reaching for a glass and ending up having a middle of the night bath!

BTW, the reason diabetics need lots of water is to prevent kidney damage--which is one of the bad side effects of having this disease. And if I have to drink a lot of it, it is my preference to drink what I prefer--what tastes best to me and at room temp.

Just like some people prefer Grey Goose or Ketel One in their Vodka/tonic, I only order Absolut or Smirnoff, I don't drink martinis or V and T's. I drink mixed drinks called Seabreezes and why would one purchase a premium vodka or gin if they are adding grapefruit and/or cranberry juice to it and is beyond me. They could make it without vodka, and I would still love it.

As for the discussion re Oceania and NCL or other similar lines, I'm sure if you added up all the extras you must pay for on NCL and all the inclusions (like airfare) on Oceania, Oceania might even end up less expensive than supposedly mid-class ships. Also, my husband and I hate dressing up. To be able for him to put on a jacket and a nice shirt and for me to wear--whatever--is great. And to choose what time and who you might want to sit with is even better (sometimes just to eat as a couple is a treat too.)

I realize that this discussion could veer off and go on forever--big ship versus small, forward vs. aft, port vs, starboard. Expensive suite or inexpensive inside cabin.

The important thing is to love your choice, that it be what you can afford, and that the travel g-ds

give you sunny days and calm waters. Thanks for all your good, bad, funny and even the nasty answers. It is amazing how with all our opinions we can even occupy this same planet! And, of course, being a Canadian, I can now see how, with so many varying opinions and how truly different we are from Americans. Not better, just different. Safe travels.

The place I found is Alaska Travel Adventures. They have a "tour" that is 1.5 hours. It includes use

of rain ponchos, the opportunity to keep whatever you pan!! and a certificate entitling you to

an inch of property in Alaska. Sounds like just the perfect length of time--I think I will contact them

and see how they suggest combining their excursion with a trip to Mendenhall and back to the ship

in less than 6 hours.

Any other panning companies that you are aware of in Juneau--although this one seems to fit all our

requirements--time, great kid experience and pick up at Juneau docks.

Again, thanks for the suggestions re the Access Desk--very helpful. And as for which line charges for what--NCL charges to eat in "specialty dining rooms". On Oceania, no extra charge and the specialty rooms have 3Star Michelin quality food and service. Gratuities--included. Booze-- bring whatever you want on board--hard liquor included and as long as you do not consume it in public areas, it is perfectly acceptable and encouraged. Wine--buy some on land that is so much better than the plonk in the dining rooms. They will charge you a minimal corkage fee but the quality of the wine makes it worthwhile. And if you don't finish the bottle, they label it and will bring it to you wherever you are eating -- maybe even days later. Your bottle of great Italian or French wine which

you purchased on land will last until it is empty and it will find you everytime you want it. Oh, by the way, if you have a higher class of cabin, everyday a steward will bring you a tray of hors d\oeuvres and the mixes and ice for your pre-dinner cocktail--made of course with your own premium vodka or gin. . We will take it all on our veranda, enjoy the sun and sea and be grateful for every minute that we are being pampered. Like having bottled water (at no extra charge). To some it is a small thing, to me it says everything about the quality of a ship and whether it is just a money grabbing venture or whether it wants you to enjoy every minute of your trip.

I got what I paid for--a kid friendly boat that will make my grandchildren happy. But when I travel with my husband, I will go on Oceania, Azamara, Celebrity and not have somebody picking my pocket all the time..

Sorry--the question about 2 excursions in Juneau for 6.5 hours was posed inaccurately by me.

My question was can you fit in Mendenhall Glacier and a visit to Gold Panning Site in that time frame?

If we do a ship's excursion to Mendenhall, we leave too late to do both.

But does anyone know a private guide who could do both and get us back to ship on time.

We are a party of 5-2 adults and 3 children from 12 to 8, Thanks, sorry about the confusion.

I am booked on a cruise to Alaska with

my son and 3 children--12 and under.

My son wants to see the Mendenhall Glacier, and I have read

that the most authentic place to pan for gold is in

Juneau.

Wonder if both can be done in 6.5 hours. Ship excursion to

glacier leaves too late to include panning.

Would a private tour be best and be most able to accommodate both

excursions.

If so, could you please recommend one/some.

Thanks--when I started planning this trip I thought it was going to be a breeze.

I have arranged many excursions in Europe and never felt as confused or conflicted

as on this upcoming one. So many places--so little time. And so many guides and

tour leaders. Help, please.

I have done 3 cruises with Oceania.

This summer for the first time I am taking my son and his 3 children on

an NCL Alaska cruise out of Seattle.

I am diabetic and I need to always have bottled water on hand to : take meds, stay hydrated

etc. Plus the kids will drink tons if it they are warm.

I had my agent ask NCL if I could bring a case of bottled water on board--to ensure there would

always be some 24/7 x7. The answer was NO, but I could pre-purchase a Water package of a

case of 24 ml. bottles of water for $72.00. I am Canadian so add on becomes 20% more! This

same case at Costco or a supermarket costs $3.00 for 24 bottles.

I wanted to ask all you experienced NCL cruisers if NCL charges outrageous amounts for

EVERYTHING? What do they charge for a can of soda pop? I have always had bottled water in

my room gratis. Please tell me about your experiences with extra charges for ordinary things. I am not asking for champagne but water--at a reasonable price. How do you all feel about this? I'd appreciate knowing very much. Thanks--about to bail!

Thanks again to responders. I was very grateful to the family with kids the approx. age of my grandchildren

who verified that the train trip would be all I believed it would be--for them. Boring, tedious and seemingly endless. I'm sure it is a wonderful trip--a must do--

according to adult friends, but they were unaccompanied by kids. This is their trip and I can stop feeling guilty for not being able to do everything that people say is "a highlight". As to the family who posted pictures of their dogsled rides--thanks you made me want to take the kids even more. And for the kidless cruiser--thanks for being so detailed with your suggestion. Most helpful. All responders--thanks for taking the time and for your suggestions.

Everyone else, I welcome your continuing input--its hard to have the responsibility for 4 other people having the most memorable trip.

Thanks to all who answered my questions about kid-oriented excursions in our ports In Alaska.

And thanks for the info about docs. for the kids. It is a real mish-mash. My son is divorced and is

Canadian with American landed residency. Kids are American 'cause I don't think he has gone through the process of getting them first registered as Canadian citizens ,which is required before you can get a Canadian passport.

As to whether the kids have American passports, will have to find out .I would imagine so, as they have travelled with their Mom or their Dad a bit and my son and the kids came to

Toronto two years ago.

I am Canadian--so no problem there with documents.

I really like the recommendation of doing half the train ride, combining it with the bus ride.

Now one more question: Which companies would you recommend for: dog-sledding (not on glacier--just the camp), and which city would you do it in. I don't want to load up everything in one day--eg. Skagway. Would just like to spread out the activities so we can enjoy the ones available on the boat--according to the brochures the ship has a Ferrari racing track which I'm sure they will want to go on ad nauseam!

As for tea, I have been to Victoria previously and gone to the White Heather. It was fantastic. But I checked on line, and it is almost as expensive as the Empress and has very rigid rules about their tea trays. This one can only be shared by two, this one is only for one, and no children's plans. But to all of you who are going to be in Victoria at some point, the White Heather is the place to go--but reserve--very NB.

Thanks again to all of you. And any more suggestions are most appreciated--I am doing all the arrangements myself and I want to make sure the kids have the

most wonderful time.

I will be cruising on Bliss in July with my 3 grandchildren and my son. The trip is going to be

based on the must do excursions in these 4 points for KIDS ]aged 12, 10 and 8: Ketchikan 8 hours,

Juneau 6 1/2 hours, and Skagway 10 1/2 hours, Victoria 6 hours and utilizing the great activities on the ship.

For example, I know the train ride in Skagway is supposed to be fantastic, but would 3 and 1/2 hours

on a train for 3 active kids be the best way to spend 1/2 of our time there? They are active normal kids,

and I'm sure would want to be DOING things rather than watching scenery go by for that length of time. What has been your experience on the train with kids.

So where are the best places to see/do dog sledding/pat dogs, pan for gold, see/experience indigenous life (totem poles etc.), lumberjacks, see wildlife?

In Victoria, I would like them to experience "afternoon tea", but not at the EMPRESS. Could anyone recommend an alternative, less costly place for tea in Victoria?

I would really appreciate all suggestions that would make this a dream trip for the kids. (BTW, they don't even know they are going yet)