HAL/Celebrity comparisons

[KAYEF]

:confused:We have almost 100 days on HAL and have sailed on Princess and NCL as well but are looking at a Celebrity cruise. Would any of you who have sailed both HAL and Celebrity please tell me some differences I might note if we chose this C. cruise, please. I know the cabins are smaller.

Thanks.

[tkwbear]

I've only been on one Celebrity cruise, and it will probably be my last. The Summit was beautiful, but had azipod problems in Alaska. We got into ports as much as 8 hours late.

 

The Summit has had a number of unscheduled dry docks. The cruise after ours was canceled and the ship headed to San Francisco for repairs. It also ran aground in Alaska once.

 

Beyond that, the food wasn't as good as HAL's. The entertainment was MUCH worse than HAL's.

 

You will find a lot of people that love Celebrity, but I'm not one of them.

[alcpa1]

After a number of Celebrity cruises we tried the Ryndam in November. We couldn't wait to get off the ship.

Some of our issues, hopefully, have been taken care of in it's recent dry dock. There is absolutely no excuse for mold in the bathroom. We had maintenance in the cabin four times for different issues. The ship missed Key West and every excuse in the book was given for this missed port during a number of sailings. We lost an engine. The ship had horrendous vibration problems. The food was less than wonderful. The stanchion and station set up in the narrow passages of the Lido were cumbersome at best. For the first time in almost thirty cruises on five different lines we left the entertainment venues more than once.

I could go on and on...

We booked this particular ship for the itinerary. At this point I do not think we would give HAL another chance.

[mudscraper]

After a number of Celebrity cruises we tried the Ryndam in November. We couldn't wait to get off the ship.

Some of our issues, hopefully, have been taken care of in it's recent dry dock. There is absolutely no excuse for mold in the bathroom. We had maintenance in the cabin four times for different issues. The ship missed Key West and every excuse in the book was given for this missed port during a number of sailings. We lost an engine. The ship had horrendous vibration problems. The food was less than wonderful. The stanchion and station set up in the narrow passages of the Lido were cumbersome at best. For the first time in almost thirty cruises on five different lines we left the entertainment venues more than once.

I could go on and on...

We booked this particular ship for the itinerary. At this point I do not think we would give HAL another chance.

Our Ryndam cruise (1 Nov) had issues also. But we sailed on the Oosterdam in Jan. and it was like night and day. Great food, immaculate ship,fantastic crew. We still talk about this great cruise and wish we were back on the `O`.

 

 

Rich

[Ichiban Nekko]

The following are some things we have noted when sailing both lines, although we have not been on the newer Solstice class (X) or Signature (HAL) class ships. Please note these are personal observations only and reflect our personal preferences:

 

Celebrity Plus: Smoking policy (including a smoke-free casino, cabins & balconies); premium restaurants (eg, Murano); sommeliers in MDR; TV access to online account 24/7.

 

HAL Plus: Library including on-going jigsaw puzzle, free cappuccino availability at dinner, liberal policy regarding bringing wine on board, bathrooms in cabins, wrap-around promenade decks; itineraries, movie venue (with popcorn!), Culinary Arts Center, smaller ships, shoeshine service, the Ym-Yum man.

 

In any event, being spoiled throughout the vacation and being in the company of pleasant fellow travellers, visiting long-dreamed of destinations -- what's not to like? :D:D

[woody14h]

The following are some things we have noted when sailing both lines, although we have not been on the newer Solstice class (X) or Signature (HAL) class ships. Please note these are personal observations only and reflect our personal preferences:

 

Celebrity Plus: Smoking policy (including a smoke-free casino, cabins & balconies); premium restaurants (eg, Murano); sommeliers in MDR; TV access to online account 24/7.

 

HAL Plus: Library including on-going jigsaw puzzle, free cappuccino availability at dinner, liberal policy regarding bringing wine on board, bathrooms in cabins, wrap-around promenade decks; itineraries, movie venue (with popcorn!), Culinary Arts Center, smaller ships, shoeshine service, the Ym-Yum man.

 

In any event, being spoiled throughout the vacation and being in the company of pleasant fellow travellers, visiting long-dreamed of destinations -- what's not to like? :D:D

 

After over 70 days on HAL and 100 days on X, we pretty much concur with the above. Pinnacle Grill on HAL has always been a delight. Room and dinner service on both has been impeccable. HAL has better beds. Evening shows similar. Our choices are usually destinations and/or timing. Can't go wrong with either lines. BTW we have also cruised on Cunard and Princess, HAL and X will continue to be our choices for cruises. Or at least until we can afford the posh cruise lines.

[KAYEF]

Thanks, everyone, for your input.

I just booked a repo on the Infinity and look forward to checking out Celebrity. One thing I'm thrilled about is their strong NO smoking policy; not having neighbors (under or beside) smoking on their verandahs will be a bit plus but I know I shall miss the crew and BEDS of HAL.;)

[kelmac]

Thanks, everyone, for your input.

I just booked a repo on the Infinity and look forward to checking out Celebrity. One thing I'm thrilled about is their strong NO smoking policy; not having neighbors (under or beside) smoking on their verandahs will be a bit plus but I know I shall miss the crew and BEDS of HAL.;)

 

A few years ago, Celebrity upgraded all of their beds and beddings. Very close now to what HAL offers.

 

 

 

My wife and I use to alternate between Celebrity (15 cruises) and Holland America (8 cruises). We've taken a break away from HAL for a bunch of reasons (another thread), but here is my take on things:

 

Things great on HAL

--nice size ships with a good space ratio.

--warm and professional service onboard.

--wrap around teak wood promenade deck.

--very good MDR food and an excellent Lido buffet.

--some of the best itineraries at sea.

--great beds and beddings.

 

Things great on Celebrity

--modern and bright decor.

--happy international crew that provides great service.

--excellent MDR cuisine.

--the best alternative restaurants at sea.

--no smoking in cabins, balconies and most areas of the ship.

--if your cruise price drops, even after final payment, Celebrity will

rebate the difference to your credit card.

--very nice entertainment venues.

--we've made seven visits to the Captain's table on Celebrity.

--Nothing in HAL's fleet can compare or compete with Celebrity's new

Solstice class of ships. Their third Solstice class ship floated out of

production yesterday.

 

Both of these cruise lines were very close in "bang for the buck", but as of late Celebrity is on a roll compared to HAL.

 

Have a great cruise!

Kel:)

[Dunelm]

We choose a cruise for its itinerary, and have cruised with Hal, Celebrity, and Princess, and have liked them all. Last year, we were on Celebrity's Constellation--a beautiful ship, great food, and great service. Recently were on the Grand (Princess)--another great cruise. Will be on Noordam later this year. We have been on Oosterdam and Statendam--loved them. I don't think you can go wrong with any of them.:)

[igraf]

Where are the Celebrity stateroom bathrooms????

 

igraf

 

 

 

 

HAL Plus: ... bathrooms in cabins...

[sjaak]

We just got home from our Eurodam-cruise. We have now done 2 HAL-cruises and 2 Celebrity.

 

Big PLUS for HAL is the Indonesian/Philipean crew. Great service with a smile!

And I really love the wrap-around promenade-deck.

 

But the food on Celebrity is better and definitly warmer!

I don't like the layout of the Lido (HAL). Stand in line for 2 peaces cheese because the people in front of me are loading there plates as if they won't get the chance anymore to get some food that day :eek:

 

Big PLUS for Celebrity is the non-smoking policy, although I must admit that we experienced less trouble from the smokingpolicy onboard the Eurodam then expected. But .... we avoided the casino and the nearby bars.

 

I completely fell in love with The Solstice the minute I set foot on her. We both found the Eurodam a little dark and somber.

 

We were really, really disappointed in Exploration's cafe on Eurodam, THE place to get good coffee. Yes, the coffee was great. But why not use porcelain cups???? I hate to drink my coffee from a cardboard cup.

 

Despite that, we had a GREAT VACATION!! :D

[igraf]

Are you saying that Celebrity has shorter buffet lines, or that Celebrity passengers are less gluttonous? :-)

 

Seriously, HAL is known for their efficient layout in the Lido buffet.

 

igraf

 

 

 

 

....

I don't like the layout of the Lido (HAL). Stand in line for 2 peaces cheese because the people in front of me are loading there plates as if they won't get the chance anymore to get some food that day....

['The Bear']

I tend to agree with Kelmac but I can't comment on solstice class ships. Having recently returned from the Millenium I preferred the Lido Area and Promenade deck on HAL, and as lovely as the Pinnacle Grill is, the Olympic Dining room is superior!

 

I think drinks are overpriced on 'X' and of course the liberal wine issues on HAL are a huge bonus for me (cases vs 2 bottles) ;) and there seemed to be more 'nickel and diming' on X. IMHO

 

But you really can't go wrong with either line --- tremendous service on both, smaller cabins on X, younger, more varied demographic on X. A different experience but thoroughly enjoyable!

 

We will probably return to the Maasdam next spring since she's returning to the Caribbean from the Panama Canal.

[flushingcruiser]

HAL Plus: Library including on-going jigsaw puzzle, free cappuccino availability at dinner, liberal policy regarding bringing wine on board...

 

I thought they don't allow you to bring on board your own wine. Do they not x-ray luggage like other lines?

[pcl_cruiser]

I have enjoyed reading these posts. We are planning an Alaska cruise next year for our 10th anniversary. We had thought about NCL but are now considering HAL Oosterdam. I like the itinerary, but have never been on HAL and am nervous about the older clientel, we are 32 and 35, but it could be nice not having as many kids onboard. Celebrity doesn't go to glacier bay on their r/t from Seattle which is what we want. So I don't know neither celebrity or HAL has prices out yet. But we are thinking we don't really want to go with NCL now...hmmmmmm. :rolleyes:

[Old As Dirt Mom]

........

I thought they don't allow you to bring on board your own wine. Do they not x-ray luggage like other lines?

 

HAL allows you to bring on as much wine, soda, and water as you can carry. No need to hide it or worry about x-rays. A corkage fee applies to the wine in the dining room.

[flushingcruiser]

Thanks. I also just found a clarification on another thread: it seems you may bring on as much wine (including champagne), soda and bottled water as you wish (they speak of bringing on board a case of wine). What is proscribed is liquor; when they x-ray all the bags at embarkation, and at each port, they will graciously hold it for you until disembarkation.

[schoolinmy3]

I have enjoyed reading these posts. We are planning an Alaska cruise next year for our 10th anniversary. We had thought about NCL but are now considering HAL Oosterdam. I like the itinerary, but have never been on HAL and am nervous about the older clientel, we are 32 and 35, but it could be nice not having as many kids onboard. Celebrity doesn't go to glacier bay on their r/t from Seattle which is what we want. So I don't know neither celebrity or HAL has prices out yet. But we are thinking we don't really want to go with NCL now...hmmmmmm. :rolleyes:

 

We loved our first cruise which was on the Westerdam to Alaska in 2008. It was for our 20th anniversary. Glacier Bay was both stunning and amazing. We even talked my parents into booking their first cruise to Alaska which they are taking in August. They are taking one of the cruise tours that includes the land portion so they can do some extensive hiking. Even though they are in their late 60's they are extremely active! We still consider ourselves young (most of the time :)) as I am 42 and my husband is 46. This year we are taking our three children to the Mediterranean on the Eurodam. The oldest is 19 and our daughter is 10. I do not expect there to be many kids onboard (May cruise) but that suits us fine as well. We enjoy peace and quiet and are not the party sort either.

diane

[Cinder Again]

I have enjoyed reading these posts. We are planning an Alaska cruise next year for our 10th anniversary. We had thought about NCL but are now considering HAL Oosterdam. I like the itinerary, but have never been on HAL and am nervous about the older clientel, we are 32 and 35, but it could be nice not having as many kids onboard. Celebrity doesn't go to glacier bay on their r/t from Seattle which is what we want. So I don't know neither celebrity or HAL has prices out yet. But we are thinking we don't really want to go with NCL now...hmmmmmm. :rolleyes:

Remember when you are planning your trip that Alaska trips are in SUMMER which translates to more kids aboard any line. There are lots of 3 generation groups on Alaska cruises, where Grandparents are paying for their kids and grandkids, so therefore, more kids.

That said, IMHO Holland America and Princess are the best two lines for Alaska. They have it down to a science!

[kelmac]

I have enjoyed reading these posts. We are planning an Alaska cruise next year for our 10th anniversary. We had thought about NCL but are now considering HAL Oosterdam. I like the itinerary, but have never been on HAL and am nervous about the older clientel, we are 32 and 35, but it could be nice not having as many kids onboard. Celebrity doesn't go to glacier bay on their r/t from Seattle which is what we want. So I don't know neither celebrity or HAL has prices out yet. But we are thinking we don't really want to go with NCL now...hmmmmmm. :rolleyes:

 

Global warming has not been kind to Glacier Bay and it is eroding rapidly. It's still a nice stop, but I think Hubbard Glacier is more impressive. Celebrity visits Hubbard.

That's the reason I think a northbound cruise out of Vancouver (Holland America) and a southbound cruise out of Seward (Celebrity) is the way to go. You must have over two weeks to make this work, but these north/south cruises tend to be less expensive compared to the R/T cruises from Seattle. It's a good idea to "think outside the brochure"!:rolleyes:

 

Enjoy!

Kel:D

[KAYEF]

PCL CRUISER

I was cruising through other threads yesterday (not on a ship, darn;)) and if you "read around" you will avoid NCL at all costs..........seriously.

HAL is wonderful in Alaska; that's the only line I've taken up there except for one GIANT mistake when I took my D and SIL on NCL............I was so used to HAL I was truly in shock.

Read the posts; they will more than help you decide.

You will LOVE Alaska and I agree with an above poster.........HUBBARD was magnificent last year. We did a b-2-b up to Seward and back. Both times Hubbard Glacier was a highlight; before I'd always sought out Glacier Bay. BTW, cruising back was cheaper than flying back and it's such fun to NOT have to pack when most are.:p And, In May and September there are "no" children on the ships if that's a problem for you. We especially love September in Alaska.

[pcl_cruiser]

Thank you guys for all of your help, I really think we will go with Holland America, I am hoping we can afford even a suite...that would be nice for our 10th anniversary! ;)

[KAYEF]

Thank you guys for all of your help, I really think we will go with Holland America, I am hoping we can afford even a suite...that would be nice for our 10th anniversary! ;)

:DOh, my gosh!

I just booked a suite for an upcoming cruise and after reading for a couple of hours on here, I'm terrified.:eek:

It seems once one has had a Suite, they will ALWAYS want a Suite.

If so, my frequent cruises will be "cut back!"

I thought I'd died and gone to heaven when we got a Verandah Cabin on our 23 day repo. cruise; what will this Suite do to me?

Guess I will soon find out.

Enjoy!

[pcl_cruiser]

:DOh, my gosh!

I just booked a suite for an upcoming cruise and after reading for a couple of hours on here, I'm terrified.:eek:

It seems once one has had a Suite, they will ALWAYS want a Suite.

If so, my frequent cruises will be "cut back!"

I thought I'd died and gone to heaven when we got a Verandah Cabin on our 23 day repo. cruise; what will this Suite do to me?

Guess I will soon find out.

Enjoy!

 

I agree, it was the same with a balcony, now we almost have to have a balcony, so I can imagine that it will be like that with a suite, but if we can afford it, why not do it for our anniversary?! But whatever we get I am excited about trying HAL...even more than I thought I would be!

[C 2 C]

One plus for frequent cruisers is Celebrity's cocktail time from 4 to 6 pm: free drinks for those who have cruised ten times on Celebrity or RCL (elite or diamond). This perk pretty well ends the need to bring your own on board.

Other than the near smoke-free-environment on Celebrity, the other aspects of your cruise will be comparable. You can have a negative experience or a fantastic cruise on either line.