Multi-generational cruise Thanksgiving 2011- too early to panic?

[O2cruise_again]

We're booked on Norwegian Epic for a Thanksgiving 2011 cruise (approx 20 people) and frankly, many of the reviews on Epic have me concerned. (Will Cruise Critic do a review soon instead of just the preview that's currently posted?) We picked Epic because of the variety of activities and previous experience with NCL's children's program. Although I'm trying to put all reviews in perspective, it's hard to ignore complaints about customer service, poor traffic flow, inability to avoid smoking areas on Epic, the perception of more "extra" costs than usual, and worse of all- dissatisfaction with the children's program for kids under age 10. What are the chances that these issues will be solved by the end of the year (when penalties from TA will start for making changes)?

 

There are other ships on similar itineraries (only considering Eastern and Southern Carib) . Can anyone provide a comparison of Epic and RCI Oasis of the Seas, or Celebrity Solstice or Carnival Miracle?

 

Ahhhh- the pressure of trying to find the perfect cruise for everybody in the family- or at least close to perfect.:confused:

[MamaParrotHead]

Although I can't do the comparison you've requested, I can tell you my experience in our multi-generational cruise this fast fall. We had family and friends from ages 2-86. And EVERYONE had a blast (Carnival Glory). My grandma (86) was comfortable to pick and choose which ports/excursions she wanted to join us on, and on the days she stayed on the ship she found a quiet place to dig into one of her novels and make new friends. The kids all raved about Camp Carnival/Club O2 and begged to go at every opportunity. And all the adults found the balance between adult time and family time awesome, along with the many choices of what to do in the evenings (big productions, comedy shows, piano bar, casino, BINGO or just hanging out in one of the lounges and relaxing, enjoying the night air on deck, etc.).

[mymollysue]

I have been reading a lot of the Epic reviews and find them to be mixed. The ship still needs to work out some kinks but it looks like the entertainment is great, the slides are a lot of fun and the food is decent. I think all cruise ships nickle and dime you so I wouldn't make that a deciding factor. DH and I are actually considering the Epic (without kids) for our 5th Anniversary.

 

One thing that may be a good thing is NCL's Freestyle dining. It will give you a lot more freedom.

 

The Oasis has had very good reviews as well. The ship is almost twice the size of the Epic and seems to have a better layout. If you are traveling with some elderly folks, the ship may be too big!

 

I have family on the Solstice now and I think Celebrity is a bit too formal for such a large party. Although I hear the Solstice is a great ship and the reviews are good!

 

I have done a couple of Carnival Cruises and they have been fun! I haven't been on the Miracle though so I really can't provide much insight.

 

I think your best choices are the Epic or Oasis. Good luck!

[O2cruise_again]

Good points about the formality. We are taking our first Celebrity cruise in November so that should give me a feel for if it is "too formal" for our extended family. I've enjoyed Carnival in the past but think it may be too informal (party time) for us. However, that may depend on the ship. Layout of Oasis definitely is a plus if it doesn't expose non-smokers to smoke the way Epic does. Thanks for the tips.