annelouise74

We just left Encore yesterday after doing the same itinerary. The weather was great, really hot in Rhodes, Bodrum and Santorini and tbh it was great being less crowded everywhere. Cesme was the only day that we found to be on the chilly side but I think that was more to do with the wind and being in the retreat for the day...we def picked the wrong day for that!

Wow that really is an amazing blog, actually really enjoyed reading it and learnt so much. What a talent you have for writing. Thanks so much, decision made, now on to the choice of suite x

Many thanks for your replies. Whilst I understand neither will have the party vibe that Celebrity has in The Club and tbh we aren't looking for that either, which would you say has the the most atmosphere in the evenings?

We are looking to book a 7 night med cruise in 2 weeks without our children....escaping for a week! Usually we sail on Celebrity in the Retreat but want to try one of the smaller more luxurious ships. We prefer to explore ports on our own rather than ship excursions and really enjoy good food and wine. Love the casino and some nightlife. My question is which would you choose? Both itineraries are similar, Explorer looks the more glitzy of the two which appeals to me but the price is pretty much double to Encore. Is it worth the extra as we won't be using the excursions? I also like the wider choice of restaurants onboard Explorer. Which is the more livelier of the two? Please help as I keep going back and forth and at this rate will end up booking nothing!