HAL vs Oceania

[titong]

We have cruised on several different lines with our last cruise (this past summer) on O (our first time on this line). We were SO not impressed and we weren't alone. Another couple on our cruise who have sailed on HAL commented to us the day we were in port along side a HAL ship that they wished they could jump ship and get back on HAL. HAL pays attention to the details of service that make the experience so special.

 

We were very disappointed with O on many levels and did not feel it was worth what we paid. We made a lot of comments on the guest survey and the response from O invited us to tell them more. We did. In fact, we sent them a long, detailed email outlining our impressions. Then nothing. We had to email them to check that they received it (they had). I expected at least a reply acknowledging our comments and telling us what they are doing with them. This lack of response is pretty much in line with our overall impression of O.

 

I know there are lots of very loyal O folks on this thread and I'm glad you've found a line that you enjoy. We just won't be back.

 

For our money, HAL or Crystal are the lines to go with!

 

Your review would only be helpful it you told us specifically what you don't like about Oceania. Your review only details vague generalities. Accordingly, your review is not helpful.

[kimanjo]

We have cruised on several different lines with our last cruise (this past summer) on O (our first time on this line). We were SO not impressed and we weren't alone. Another couple on our cruise who have sailed on HAL commented to us the day we were in port along side a HAL ship that they wished they could jump ship and get back on HAL. HAL pays attention to the details of service that make the experience so special.

 

We were very disappointed with O on many levels and did not feel it was worth what we paid. We made a lot of comments on the guest survey and the response from O invited us to tell them more. We did. In fact, we sent them a long, detailed email outlining our impressions. Then nothing. We had to email them to check that they received it (they had). I expected at least a reply acknowledging our comments and telling us what they are doing with them. This lack of response is pretty much in line with our overall impression of O.

 

I know there are lots of very loyal O folks on this thread and I'm glad you've found a line that you enjoy. We just won't be back.

 

For our money, HAL or Crystal are the lines to go with!

 

 

I too, am interested in what "attention to details" you found lacking? I think sometimes what matters greatly to one, not so much to another. For instance, because I dont drink, the availability of cocktail servers is not too important to me. But, the details of clean public restrooms IS very important.

 

What are the specifics of what you found lacking??

[cstrick]

Our first cruise ever was on the Ryndam to Alaska. Because it was our first we were very excited. The cruise was wonderful. The cabin large and the specialty restaurant was very good. What almost ruined our future on cruise ships was the awful food. I know that food is subjective but anyone would have found this food tasteless and bland. We ate in the specialty restaurant 5 out of 7 nights. Needless to say that was our last HAL cruise. Since then we have sailed on Regent (3), Celebrity (2) and Oceania (1). In each case the food and the service were great. I would rate them:

 

1- Regent

2- Oceania

3. Celebrity

 

 

..... and then HAL