Alternative cruise line to Cunard

[Lynnewob]

Hi

 

I've decided, that after numerous problems with Cunard recently, to try another cruise line.

 

We do however like the dress codes that Cunard offer (which I appreciate differs to what some people like) and wondered if there are any other cruise lines that are as formal?

 

We usually book a suite so some of the more expensive cruise lines would not be a problem. We've look at Regent, Silversea etc but really do not know which is best for formality and service. It would make a nice change though to save a bit of money and book a smaller cabin (still with a balcony though) but on a nicer cruise line - we only book suites on Cunard because of the better service offered in the Grills but if there's a cruise line out there that offers the level of service and food options that Cunard Grills offer at the same sort of price, it's definitely time for a change.

 

Please let me have your thoughts on the differences between the lines.

 

Many thanks

Lynne

 

PS. We don't need entertainment every evening but do tend to spend time in the casino, so it would help if that's available on the particular line.

[corpkid]

While I can't offer any advice other than to say we too are Cunard cruisers who decided to switch to Azamara for a more "boutique" (read: smaller) style cruise, it's probably not for you as it's not formal.

 

I will be watching this thread curiously. What made you decide Cunard wasn't for you anymore? For us, it was simply a dislike for the large ships - and Cunard was the best of the breed so I'd cruise with them again if the itenerary was great, but for now, we will be trying the smaller ships.

[wwcruisers]

Sorry -- don't know anything about the "luxe" lines (or Cunard)-- but have you considered Celebrity? There is probably as much attention to dress codes there as you are likely to find on any of the main stream lines. And, if you book a suite, you'll have some nice perks -- including a butler. :cool:

[Keith1010]

While not quite as formal as Cunard, you may want to take a look at both Crystal and Silversea as both do have formal nights.

 

Keith

[TeaBag]

I would second Celebrity as they do have formal nights and if you want to save a bit as compared to Silversea, Crystal or Regent, then it might be a good fit for you. We love it but I can't compare it to Cunard as I have never sailed with them.

[janetz]

Celebrity :)

[pris993]

We have cruised on Princess, Celebrity, HAL, NCL, RCCL, Cyrstal and Cunard.

 

Cunard by far is more formal which we really liked. HAL depending on the cruise, longer ones attract an older group and therefore are more formal.

 

We did not have a suite on Cunard. We had a balcony cabin, even so we were able to special order every night on the QV in the MDR. We did find the food and service above average on OV, even in the MDR, compared to other cruise lines. We feel food is better on Princess and HAL, by comparison to any of the others we have been on - other than Cunard.

 

We did a 7 day on Celebrity (Eclipse) and a 7 day on the Ruby Princess this past March in the Carribean. We had an Aqua Class cabin on Celebrity and eat in BLU which is a diningroom only for Aqua Class -- while it was nice to have a private diningroom - we did not feel the food or service was that much different. More hype than anything on Celebrity. We actually preferred the Ruby Princess over the Celebrity ship.

 

We have not been on more expensive lines, so can't help you there by comparison.

[navybankerteacher]

Gelebrity would be worth a try -- also HAL -- their smaller ships on longer itineraries (especially Prinsendam) would have the sort of atmosphere you like on Cunard.

[calliopecruiser]

From my research, it seems Crystal and Silversea look to have the most formal "formal nights", and will likely offer service to the level of the Cunard Grills. I know Crystal consistently wins awards for their onboard service.

[kitty9]

Unfortunately, Celebrity and their formal nights have been slipping lately as the "casualites" have begun to take over. If it's a more formal atmosphere you desire, I highly recommend Crystal.

[Travelcat2]

Does Crystal have more formal nights than Silversea? I thought they were going more casual (according to posts that I read). On Silversea, it is "Formal" (tux or dark suit) or "Informal" sports jacket - tie not required almost every night.

[Gail & Marty sailing away]

Try Holland America.

[Shorex]

Hebridean might be a good fit for you. It's very British, suitable for Queen Elizabeth to charter, dining is elegant and formal.

 

A recent review is here.

[calliopecruiser]

Does Crystal have more formal nights than Silversea? I thought they were going more casual (according to posts that I read).

 

I don't know how many formal nights there are on average.....I was referring to how formal the formal nights were, not how many of them there are. I know that even years ago on HAL and Celebrity (the two other lines I'd been on), even "formal" nights weren't really all that formal and only the most casual of clothes were deemed unacceptable......which is fine by me, but apparently not what the poster wants. According to Crystal, casual day wear like shorts are unacceptable in public areas of the ship on any night, including those with a casual dress code.

[jocap]

The other cruise lines which seem to be as formal as Cunard are Fred Olsen or P&O, where the majority of men will wear evening dress on formal, and jackets on semi- but as a line,neither is up there with all the "stars" of Cunard.....they are middle range cruising lines, although the little Adonia was supposed to be aiming for an extra star.....:confused:

Most people I read about who have sailed with Cunard, and want to try another line, seem to be happy with Celebrity.

Enjoy choosing. :)

Jo.