Cruise Junky

Island Princess is 7 years older than Equinox. Not a fan now they butchered her but the cruises we had on her were fine. Friends did the world cruise on her this year and definitely warned us off taking that ship. Too many maintenance issues. interesting comment on the storage. Solstice, Equinox’s sister, is our favourite ship. We loved the storage above the bed. Thought it was genius. I sadly think Equinox has been the experiment to see how low they can lower the bar on menus recently. Hope they come to their senses soon.

It’s not completely bleak. I booked a Sky Suite this week, 19 day transpacific for under $10k for 2.

Sounds like they’re set. For Gold Coast we’ve stayed at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort twice and loved it.

Don’t mind at all. Solstice. Honolulu to Sydney. October 2, 2025.

I want to thank you guys for complaining loud and clear. Someone is listening. We were able to book a new release Sky Suite on a 19 day TransPacific for $450 more pp than a balcony + classic drinks. We’re very happy! First time in a suite on Celebrity.

I just love Port Douglas. We’ve done three land trips there. Great shirts!

Does anyone have an approx idea of when these itineraries be released? Tx

Celebrity would always be our first choice. But if X doesn’t offer the itinerary, Princess is a decent backup. Just can’t stand the smoking in the casino.

Not August! Never August. Mid to late September or late May are usually perfect.

Regarding Indonesia, In the paper work we received from Princess they said “A visa will be issued upon the ship's arrival and therefore you are not required to obtain one in advance of vour cruise; a visa fee will be applied to your stateroom account.” is that not to be trusted? Or is it just cheaper to do it yourself?

We were 100% sure we’d be switching to the 2026 WC and then….we saw the itinerary. Not our cup of tea at all. Sticking with 2025.

We did it years ago and Master Chef Alfredo Marzi was onboard and did ours. Incredible but there’s no way to top that one and haven’t done it since. Risotto to die for.

Grand Princess. October 16th. 2025

Thanks for posting the itineraries. Eyeing 1/2 the world cruise. Liked the 2025 itinerary better…but sigh…work 🤷🏻‍♀️

It’s the 15th in Australia…. Impatiently waiting for those itineraries 😂😂

This is great news.

I disagree. I think they know a certain percentage of cruisers remove all tips. The people that leave them on are picking up their share. And this is exactly American tipping culture. Pay them the minimum and make it up with tips. That’s not English, Canadian, Australian or any other culture.

They don’t have to raise it $150 pp. ever seen the line up at guest services to have tips removed? I’m tired of paying for the cheapskates. Make it mandatory and add it to the fare. Royal Caribbean’s is now $55 Cdn a day. Enough!

They deserve to be paid a living wage by their employer, not me. The whole US based tipping culture is out of control.

You’re also paying for a refundable deposit but wouldn’t it be past final payment date anyway by now?

Which is pretty good regular price these days is $20 + gratuties

Insanity!

Check out the Ilikai

Gratuities. 18% US I’m thinking.

You’re going to have to explain your math.