seahags

On 8/3/2019 at 7:43 PM, rattanchair said:

To all,  I  have another observation, that may be off base. We were on the Divina for Christmas and I remarked to DW that the security people checking passengers on and off both the Divina and Seaside this summer were speaking to each other in Hebrew. It did not dawn on me until we met Captain Massa this summer on Seaside at the CC meet and mingle, when one of us brought up the Achille Lauro . I was talking about the ship, the Captain was talking about the founder of Msc, that  Achille Lauro started out as a Captain. His name sake vessel was attacked by terrorists. I surmise that the owner and founder of MSC vowed to never let there be a repeat of what happened to any of his cruise ships again and has determined to hire the world's finest to protect his cruise fleet. Again, this is only an observation.

...so thankful for the security on ships not being taken for granted.  We sailed through 'pirate' waters from Dubai to/thru the Suez Canal escorted by USN vessels...the crew of our ship(RCCL) was up the entire night on deck with flashlights in hand.  The Caribbean has not been a haven for terrorist activity to date, however it IS comforting to know that those enforcing the security have been well vetted!  Kudos!

We are booked on the Splendida's 9 nights trip November 1, 2020 in YC.  It is my understanding that hamrag is correct about the Connoisseur drinks being the only exclusion.  We booked last month and are SO looking forward to the Divina this December as our first MSC YC trip, as well as the Splendida next year!  Come join us!

1 hour ago, Beamafar said:

There are usually 3 'Elegant' nights on an 11 night cruise (though YMMV).  Unfortunately less and less people are dressing up these days.  On our Armonia cruise last month you wouldn't even have known it was a gala night were it not for the crews' attire and free pre-dinner cocktails.  Not even the women looked well-dressed up.

...I guess that seems to be the way the cruise lines are all headed, boo hoo!  It does look from some of the pictures I've seen that the Yacht Club seems to be a bit dressier.  We're still excited about our new adventures with MSC!!

We, too, are experienced cruisers...many with RCL and many with Celebrity.  Booked on Divina in December this year in YC.  Really looking forward to it and so encouraged by the great reviews posted about the YC.  Somewhere I read that there are formal nights.  Our trip is 11 nights...anyone know how many formal nights, AND, do the passengers dress in tux and gown (somewhat disappointed in how casual Celebrity has become over this)?  Would love to begin prepping the DHs to fit into their finery again--we are two couples that travel together and Carol and I would LOVE to dress!

Thanks for all the hings, encouragement and inside info!  Hopefully chat soon!

eileen.

20 hours ago, Toofarfromthesea said:

$12.50 pp pd, I believe.  And yacht club staff, i.e., butlers, stewards, etc. share in it.

Thank you!!

10 hours ago, MarkusToe said:

if you cruise within EU its 10 €

...thanks, we'll save our Euros for next year's trip!

Is there a daily service charge added in Yacht Club?  or is that included in the contract.  Thanks for any help you can be, we're booked in a Deluxe Suite if that helps.

13 hours ago, Hlitner said:

Just a friendly warning that the YC has become very popular and tends to sell-out, far in advance, on many cruises.   In fact we recently looked at booking a relatively late booking for a particular cruise in May only to discover that the YC was totally sold out.

 

Hank

Thanks so much, Hank!  We're looking at this December and September/October 2020.  I think we're about to make the decision!  Looking at the Divinia this year and the Splendida in Europe next year...four of us travel together (two couples) and we're all pretty excited about the change.  It's a hard decision after so many cruises and years.  We'll apply for their matching levels as soon as we book!

And to all who have posted their experiences, it's really helpful.  Hopefully we won't miss Luminae too much, LOL!

...off to look at air now!  Cheers everyone!😎🌨️

On ‎12‎/‎25‎/‎2018 at 1:32 PM, Hlitner said:

We recently returned from 21 days on MSC's Divina (in the Caribbean) where we had booked a small suite in their so-called "Yacht Club."  For many years we have always taken a Celebrity Caribbean cruise between Thanksgiving (USA) and Christmas.  But for the past 3-4 years we had noticed some major degradations in service/quality on Celebrity....so last year we decided to give MSC a try.  Our intent was to compare MSC's Yacht Club to Celebrity (and Aqua Class) and make a decision whether to book the Silhouette for Dec 2019 or go back on the Divina.  About 2 weeks into our 3 week Divina cruise, DW and I debated the future cruise decision.  The Silhouette has long been one of our favorite X ships and we could have easily booked the 12 day Caribbean cruise in any cabin class.  The Divina offered an 11 day cruise about the same time.  Although we have long been fans of X (we are Elite Plus) our decision was surprisingly easy, we booked the Divina, again in their Yacht Club and even kept the same cabin.  To be honest, it was not even a contest.  Within the Yacht Club (a dedicated section of the ship with its own gorgeous lounge, sun deck, and restaurant (with its own galley and chefs) the food, service and even atmosphere blew away anything we have experienced on Celebrity...especially during the past few years during the era of Celebrity cut-backs.   Once we left the confines of the Yacht Club to experience other facets of the Divina, the service and quality were somewhat below what we experience on Celebrity.  On the other hand, we could easily return to the sanctuary of our Yacht Club area, use our cards to enter the exclusive section of the ship, and immediately feel like we were truly on a private yacht.   And for those that enjoy suite benefits on X we would mention that on MSC, the dedicated restaurant is open for lunch every day.....even when in port.  And the menus in that restaurant are not just slight modifications to the regular MDR, but totally different with everything prepared to order (especially on the slow port days).

 

It actually caused DW and I some pain not to return to Celebrity.  There are many things about the S-Class ships that continue to make them our favorite vessels.  But those positive aspects cannot overcome all the cut-backs that seem to be the new philosophy at X.  Will we again cruise on Celebrity?  Most definitely.  But,  on the other hand, our next three booked cruises are on Seabourn, Princess and MSC.  5 years ago all those cruises would have been on X.  Just saying.   We hope some at Celebrity read this post, wake up, and restore more of the quality we used to find in the MDR, Aqua Class, etc.

 

The regular US cruise lines had best be prepared for the competition provided by MSC, not to mention the soon to come Virgin Cruises.  MSC is actually adding about 2 new builds every year for the next decade.  By 2026 they will likely have 29 vessels, nearly all of which are near new.  Besides larger vessels (3000-4000 passengers) they are building 4 smaller luxury vessels that will likely compete with lines such as Seabourn and Silverseas.   MSC will be adding their third Florida based ship (Mergaviglia) next fall.   While the line continues to attract many Europeans (they are familiar with the line and prefer the International flavor) more and more North Americans are discovering this company.  They are still tweaking their Florida-based products to make them more "Americanized" but we really hope they keep much of their Italian identity.  The pastas and risottos offered in Le Muse (the Yacht Club's private restaurant) are simply fantastic.

 

Hank

Wow, we are long time Celebrity (and prior to that D+ on RCCL) Elite.  We are really considering a jump to MSC, and have a Divinia trip in mind this coming December.  REALLY glad to read your review of the Yacht Club.  I just read this and will now peruse the rest of the thread...thanks so very much for your review!!

On ‎1‎/‎31‎/‎2019 at 12:36 PM, Mr.AgentMan said:

New to NCL, but a veteran of more than 20 cruises.  Regarding Pete's contention that crew members don't remember, I have two stories. 

 

My wife and I cruised on HAL in the Mediterranean several years ago.  It was a wonderful trip and we made friends with our female cabin attendant.  About 5 years later, we cruised the Caribbean on RCL.  As we were walking down the hallway to our stateroom, I heard someone yelling my wife's name--it was our HAL cabin attendant.  She had moved to RCL and was working on the same deck as our stateroom.  They ran down the hallway and hugged like they were long-lost cousins.

 

And on Celebrity two years ago, my wife became very attached to our assistant waiter.  The two exchanged emails and still keep in contact with each other.  We are planning a Celebrity cruise later in the summer so that we can sail with her again (this time as a head waiter).

 

Pete, just because you and I aren't particularly memorable to crew members doesn't mean that everyone is. 

 

Regarding the OP, I like to know the names of the captain, cruise director, restaurant manager, etc.  It adds to the anticipation of the cruise, which can sometimes be almost as fun as the cruise itself. 

 

Can anyone give me any information about the current cruise director on the Breakaway? 

 

 

We've cruised many times and continue to encounter crew from past times...and they DO remember us!  We also email often with many of our favorites of the past from all parts of the world!  Something to look forward to when you know a familiar face may be there!!  

13 hours ago, G.M.T. said:

Heavy rain is forcast for the next 48 hours.

 

Flood warnings have been issued for several Danube tributaries.

 

Merry Christmas everyone.

13 hours ago, G.M.T. said:

Heavy rain is forcast for the next 48 hours.

 

Flood warnings have been issued for several Danube tributaries.

 

Merry Christmas everyone.

we are on SS Beatrice (happily)...Captain just announced we would depart Nuremberg 6 pm instead of 2 am because of heavy rain and flooding...we’ll be on our way to Regensberg soon. Merry Christmas 🥂🎄🎄🎄

1 hour ago, Deval said:

 

Disappointing to read this today, as it certainly hasn’t applied to us.  Today was our last day on AmaLea, we’re on the Dec 2-9 that was supposed to be Budapest to Nuremberg.  While Lea was able to get to Budapest and we were able to board last Sunday, she wasn’t able to get out - we were stuck there 3 days.  The schedule has been a hot mess all week, sometimes changing multiple times in 1 day!  

 

We ended up getting out Wed but sailed 24 hrs straight to get to Vienna, we basically lost a full day onboard.  Had a good day in Vienna Thursday and opted for the night visit to the markets.  We’ll that was another hot mess as we were taken back to the same market to see it lit at night, but it closed at 9:30 and we were not picked up to return to the ship until 10:30.  It started raining and it was really cold and we had to find a pub to hang out in until the pick-up time.

 

Friday was a full day tour to Salzburg - 3 hr ride each way!  The day was cold but sunny and we enjoyed our time there.  We had been before but got to see things we didn’t previously.  Today was a full day in Regensburg which we really enjoyed.  Lea only made it as far as Passau so we had to fully disembark there for our tour to Regensburg and then bussed to Nuremberg where we are being put up at the Hilton.  It’s basic to say the least, pretty dated.  The group that booked post tour to Prague are put up at Meridian which is a lot nicer and closer to town.  For us it’s a 15 Euro taxi each way.

 

The week certainly didn’t turn out as expected, and we didn’t get to towns on our itinerary.  We understand the impacts of low water, but it seemed Ama should’ve been more proactive and upfront about it with us.  I have to say though that the crew was fantastic all week.  A shout out to Milos in the dining room who served us so well, and Milana and Marina who kept our glasses full, along with so many others.  

 

We will now await to see what Ama’s official response to us within the next 30 days will be, and what, if any, compensation will be provided for the significant impacts to our cruise.  I’ll provide an update when I get it.

So sorry to hear about your disappointing trip.  It seems that now the rivers are somewhat higher, but the distance between Vienna and Budapest seems to have been one of the last to be passable.  I know that we've seen posts on here of those that were bussed from Budapest to Vienna where they began their journey.  Does the AmaLea have a particularly deep draft? or there maybe weren't alternative ships for you?  At any rate, glad you were able to enjoy portions of the trip and sure hope that you have a lovely time in Prague!!  

4 hours ago, steamboats said:

 

No snow in my forecast for next Thursday... but that´s longterm... Should by freezing cold next week and some snow on Monday and Tuesday. Actually I don´t need any snow on Thursday... Have to head out to the airport for a surgery (yes, there´s a small private hospital).

 

steamboats

Good thoughts for you Thursday!  Hope all goes well.

2 hours ago, G.M.T. said:

The Danube levels have fallen somewhat, but they seem to be leveling out at a higher level than before the recent rains. Don't worry there is still enough water for your ships to get through the Danube shallows, also more rain is due this weekend.

 

Oh for the good old days, 20 cm snow and minus 10°C, that is the weather to really enjoy a Christmas Market.

 

Tonight, we're off to Passau Christmas Market, must not forget the Crucifix, garlic and the full vampire kit in case we come across dear MiL.

 

All you cruisers have a great time, either onboard or at a Christmas market.

 

 

 

Please keep that rain in the forecast 'til we board 22 Dec and head from Nuremberg to Budapest!!  I see some snow in Munich for our arrival 13 Dec, too!  We're inching closer!!

Just now, Bizmark'sMom said:

I am currently in Vienna, and have just been informed by Ama that will be sailing original Vienna to Nuremberg itinerary.  

That's WONDERFUL NEWS!!!  Enjoy!🎄

🎄Such great news about the rains and the rivers rising!  We'll be waiting to hear how the trips from Nuremberg all the way to Budapest progress!!  Can't wait to visit the Markets!

1 hour ago, G.M.T. said:

🎄"Cruisers shall inherit the Danube".

 

The Danube has risen and more than after last week's rain.

 

The outbreak of Vikingitis in Straubing has been cured, the Lif and Var that have been stuck there for many a day are able to move, they both made it through the Danube shallows and are currently passing Deggendorf towards Passau, no other ships insight.

 

The cruise lines will now have to get their boats in position to take advantage of this wet window.

 

So for all your cruisers visiting a Christmas Market don't forget for every glühwein you have you will be helping a fellow cruiser (downstream) who may be high and dry.

 

It's always nice to type good news for a change, you lot are lucky, for me Christmas is already over with dear MiL coming. Please do not cry for me as watered down glühwein doesn't taste that good.

WONDERFUL NEWS ON A MONDAY MORNING!!🎄❄️

8 minutes ago, G.M.T. said:

Guess what, it is raining as predicted. The Danube levels are rising, we will have to wait and see what tomorrow brings, but it is looking good.

 

Rain, on and off forecatsed until next weekend.

 

First glühwein (white) is probably well on it's way to the Black Sea, hopefully helping the situation around Budapest.

WONDERFUL NEWS...we might actually make it from Vienna to Budapest!  Keep that gluhwein flowing!!!🎄🍷

28 minutes ago, G.M.T. said:

The river levels are low again, nothing moving between Passau and Regensburg.

 

Snowed overnight, nice background for our village Christmas Market this afternoon.

 

The outlook is very bright, not sunny but for the Danube levels. Sunday evening through to Wednesday morning, heavy rain fall is forecasted, then light to moderate rainfall until next Sunday. If this does happen I would say from late Tuesday the river should be passable and with the follow up rain the river levels should be maintained at a level for ships to pass the Danube shallow.

 

I hope this "Christmas Present" is delivered this time.

 

I'll have my first glühwein this afternoon, I'll toast all river cruisers that they have at least a handsbreadth of water under the keel.

G.M.T. you are the best!  We SO appreciate all of your banter and real-time information.  We leave the US in about ten days, but don't sail the S.S. Beatrice until 22/12 from Nuremberg to Budapest.  We see much rain forecast, but like your comments on the long range forecast for the Danube, ours here in Delaware, US aren't too reliable either!  At any rate, very happy to see your comments...keep 'em coming, and enjoy that first gluhwein (sorry I don't have an umlaut)!🎄

eileen

Our TA spoke in person with the CEO of Uniworld on Tuesday so we do know that there are at least GOOD contingency plans in the event there is not enough rain for the Danube!  

47 minutes ago, Jcat2010 said:

two weeks to our embarkation date for Viking River Cruise, Romantic Danube.  On fact is clear, at least for the US arm of Viking.  Their marketing efforts far outstrip their customer service and support.  Between TV commercials and emails, I hear from Viking marketing at least 3 times a week.   In the last year since we booked the trip, we've maybe heard from viking about three times total.   When contacting viking regarding the danube river levels, the initial "handler" says "everything is fine, no changes", it usually takes at least three levels of transfer before you can get to someone who will at least confirm what's obvious from this board - that the river levels will have some impact on the cruise.  No definition of what that impact might be.  in fact, just received the "confirmed itinerary", shows no changes.   I've been told to expect a further communication "sometime" before we board the plane.

 

Perhaps Viking could learn that more information is better than less, in terms of customer satisfaction.  I really feel for those who have "trusted" Viking to keep them informed, as they will likely have no back-up plan.

Amen to that...and include other lines in that as well!  We are booked on Uniworld for a 13 night trip and leave home 13 days prior to embarkation..can't get ANY answers from them!  Two weeks 'til our departure...silence!  VERY frustrating!!

I did see this morning that it's raining in Vienna and forecast for rain most of the week!  Sure hope it's true!!!

23 minutes ago, mtkprint said:

Were Plan A and Plan B an option or does Plan B only come into play if there is no rain and Plan A can't work. Or is it majority rules? When will the final call be made on what is happening.  We are on AMACerto on 22 December from Vienna to Nuremburg. Are still waiting to hear what is happening as we leave Australia on 7 December for a sea cruise first and fly to Vienna the day we finish the sea cruise. Lets hope the wifi is working on the sea cruise or we will have no idea what is going on.

We are in a similar situation...we are on Uniworld SS Beatrice on 22 December from Nuremberg to Budapest.  We leave the U.S. on 12 December for several stops before boarding in Nuremberg.  There's not a lot we can do other than watch...hoping for LOTS of rain between now and then.  It's cold here, 20s at night but 50s during the day (until Thursday hi 33), so we're getting ready to spend a lot of time in cold weather whether on the water or the roads!

51 minutes ago, bubbulz said:

A friend is on the Maria Theresa right now and not happy at all with Uniworld's communication nor compensation so far. They had to be bused to Passau for the start of their trip, and the boat could go no further than Vienna so they are being bused to/from Bratislava and then the next day being bused to Vienna and put up in a hotel for the last days. I understand completely about the low river levels, but I was disappointed to hear that Uniworld is stepping up to make things right so far.

That's really disconcerting!  I like to think that a portion of that may be their proximity to the horrible fires in SoCal (I'm originally from close to there), and that they'll get their act together now.  Our boat leaves from Nuremberg and our 'shore' days are prior to boarding there so that portion of our trip won't be impacted.  I'm extremely hopeful that we won't spend 13 days and nights on a bus when we've paid premium dollars for the Beatrice!   At this point, nothing we can all do but wait.  I know your trip is at least two weeks before ours on the ships, can't wait to see your report and sure hope it's all river!!!

...waiting, however impatiently, for Mother Nature!  We have ten days in Munich, Prague and Frankfurt before we are scheduled to board in Nuremberg late December.  This will be our first ever river cruise so really wondering how Uniworld may handle it and whether or not we will have any information before we leave home!  Certainly a different animal from the changed itineriaries and cancellations we've had with ocean cruising!

Thank you for the temps/dress help! It's so difficult to pack 'light' and pack warm at the same time. We will be prepared to layer, and definitely have water-proof boots and shoes! Carol and I will be fine traipsing through the Christmas Markets with plenty of gluhwein, but the guys will be on their own, LOL! It's been SO overly warm and humid here the past couple of weeks that thinking about winter clothing has been a real challenge! I KNOW we'll have a great time!

I sailed the Rhine last November from Basel to Amsterdam' date=' and the temps ranged from cool and sunny to downright cold and rainy. Between sweaters / light dress jackets and a waterproof rain coat, I managed and had a fantastic time. Yes, layers are key! And be prepared for wet pavement with shoes that have good tread on them.[/quote']

Oops, LOL!! YAY, four weeks away! Would love to have your restaurant recommendation. We are staying at the Hotel Muller, which seems to be central and very well reputed! We're all about the 'local'!

:cool::cool:

I meant 4 weeks away on vacation (LOL! :D)

I have a great "local" restaurant recommendation I can pass on while in Munich (if interested) - food was absolutely phenomenal and was a true local place.