How do you choose a cruise line? Royal, Carnival, or Norwegian???

[big al]

My criteria affecting selection:

When do we want to go? - Not every itinerary is available all the time (i.e. - no Alaska in the winter, etc.)

Where do we want to go? - Caribbean, Baltic, South Pacific, etc.

How long? - Don't forget to add in travel time to/from the port and an extra day if there's the posibility of jet lag or flights delayed by weather.

Port intensive? - Different port (almost) every day, or mainly at-sea days?

What cruise lines are available? - Each line caters to a different base clientele.

 

Please note, I did not identify PRICE as a criteria. When you break it down, the difference in the low and mid priced lines is usually in the realm of $15-25 per day difference. You usually get what you pay for.

 

My take (and I know I'll draw flames for this, but the following is solely my opinion, based on what I have experienced):

 

Carnival - Primarily first time cruisers and those who want to go as cheaply as possible.

Norwegian - Again, usually the lowest initial price, but a lot of nickel and diming (extra charges).

Costa - American itineraries good for families and those who enjoy a more international flavor. On Mediterranean cruises, North Americans will be in the minority. Many more smokers!

Royal Caribbean - good for those who are "more active" and/or those who want the ship to be the main feature.

Princess - Also good for families. Very "vanilla". Just good, basic, cruising. Excellent Alaska.

Holland America -More mature base. Fewer children. More genteel.

 

Cabin(s) - The reality on cabins is that you're only in your cabin to sleep, shower, shave, s****, and change clothes. You can't see anything out your window at night (there ain't no street lights out there), balconies are highly over-rated and you won't spend that must time out there anyway (there's way too much else going on). Suites are great, if you're really in need (not want) of extra space.

 

No matter what cabin you take, you'll all go to the same places, eat the same great meals and watch the same shows. The only difference is how much you choose to spend on where you sleep . . .

 

You obviously have not read this on balcony cabins:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1947393

 

A balcony cabin completely changes your whole perspective on cruising plus you FEEL a part of the sea, a part of the cruise, instead of feeling a part of a broom closet as I mention..98% of the posters agree about balconies- 40% of your time ( or more if you have a nice balcony)

is spent in your cabin,so why not enjoy it and have that "can't wait to see what's out there" feeling? I know I NEVER had that feeling when I went back to my broom closet-like cabin..I knew it would always be the same- dark,boring, sullen,devoid of the sea life that can be at your feet...BTW, I mostly agree with your assessment of the other major cruise lines...I guess you have not sailed Celebrity since you didn't mention them..the Solstice class ships are magnificent & have great dining & service ( as does Disney)..

 

Big Al

Edited July 6, 2014 by big al
for got one word..

[Calgon1]

You obviously have not read this on balcony cabins:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1947393

 

... A balcony cabin completely changes your whole perspective on cruising ...I guess you have not sailed Celebrity since you didn't mention them... great dining & service (as does Disney)..

 

Big Al

 

Have done balconies before, but usually only when the upgrade fairy taps us. Yes, they are nice, but unless you really spend a lot of time out there, I don't think they are worth the extra expense. I find the upper decks have the same 'oneness' with the ocean and have the benefit of having food and drink service within easy reach . . .

No, haven't cruised Celebrity (yet). Have heard many, many good things about them. Same with Disney. However, Disney tends to be around twice as expensive. That's what happens when the casino and liquor revenues are not the prime producers.

But, yes. I would definitely recommend both =X= and "The Mouse".