Ouch! Wow those Haven prices are high

[Merriem]

Have you tried a luxury line? From what you are saying, I bet you would love it. Bigger rooms, less pax, great service, many are truly all inclusive down to shore excursions, and much quieter. All for the about the same, or sometimes less than the Haven.

 

We have tried all the luxury lines.

 

Crystal. Nice, great service, small cabins unless you to to a penthouse and that is only 350 sq ft. Price is about double

 

Seabourn. Excellent

 

Silversea.. Horrible. Spent $20,000 for a 9 night Vietnam cruise. Food was bad, ship was in poor condition, and the food was poor

 

Regent. Very nice no complaints

 

Oceania. excellent food...very snobby.

 

However, we are finding that you get more for your money in the higher rent area suites on the so called mass market cruises.

[sjbdtz]

I dislike the Haven. I can get a true luxury cruise experience for the same or lower cost on another line. The Haven is designed for people who want exclusivity, (even though that is not the main draw for some). Generally, Haven sailors want to feel special. (ex. Better than the unwashed masses below.)

 

You CAN put a price on feeling important and feeding people's egos. (Look at any casino.) NCL does this well. I however appreciate it on NCL because the Haven is subsidizing my super low cost inside cabin. There is no way that $239 pp for seven days of food, lodging and entertainment covers the cost of my family of 3.

 

 

 

So would the people in the 2 bdrm Haven Suite look down on those lowly people who only have 1 bdrm? Would the DOS look down on the 2 bdrm?

 

 

If anything, we try to get a cabin with enough space for entertaining. We frequently meet people we like, and invite them to dinner chez-nous.

 

It's not about feeling superior, it's about sharing what we've been fortunate enough to have.

 

 

As for why I like suites: space, another venue (though we're likelier to be in the spa than in the Haven), another restaurant, fewer precious vacation minutes wasted in lines, a more relaxed breakfast & lunch venue, and the ability to head out to the pool deck for a burger if that's what we want.

 

We book Haven Suites when possible because it affords us more choices. And unlike those who want the waiter to always know what you want to drink....we like to switch things up, so choice is good.

 

 

Stephen

 

 

.

[spanishguy1970]

I only book insides....or possibly an ov

 

We cruise often and will only pay rock bottom prices which allows for several incredible vacations per year including very long European jaunts and extra long Carib cruises

 

Keep the haven.....I'll take the insides

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

 

I totally agree, not because i can't afford the Haven but because i like the deals of inside cabins. I rather spend my money either on excursions or drinks or spa pass etc.. The amount of money you would pay for haven could be the cost for 4 cruises or more. I can understand if you are a large family that you would need the extra space but for a couple just don't see why the Haven is a big deal unless you get the upsell at a steal price which is very rare and/or is a special occasion. I have also seen the prices on NCL just go up for any category stateroom, I guess is Mr. Del Rio trying to make more money for the line which is fine i guess...

Edited October 17, 2015 by qtaromar1970

[canadianeh934]

My favorite cruise thus far was a transatlantic 14 days in an inside room. We slept like babies with no lights from windows etc.

 

We paid $549 all in! And landed in England with 5 ports of call.

 

We spent a total of $5800 and we were gone for 6 weeks and went to Paris for a week. Amsterdam and Valencia for 9 days. This price includes airfare for two.

 

So I prefer my vacation dollars to be spent stretched for my time. We are doing a back to back cruise in Jan and booked an ocean view to get the drink package. With airfare and the two 7 day cruise we will spend around $3500 for two all in, includes a one night pre and post cruise hotel stays and transportation to and from airport.

 

 

I can understand why some like the large rooms with lots of amenities and I thank them as they keep the cost of the lower end rooms cheaper.

[spanishguy1970]

My favorite cruise thus far was a transatlantic 14 days in an inside room. We slept like babies with no lights from windows etc.

 

We paid $549 all in! And landed in England with 5 ports of call.

 

We spent a total of $5800 and we were gone for 6 weeks and went to Paris for a week. Amsterdam and Valencia for 9 days. This price includes airfare for two.

 

So I prefer my vacation dollars to be spent stretched for my time. We are doing a back to back cruise in Jan and booked an ocean view to get the drink package. With airfare and the two 7 day cruise we will spend around $3500 for two all in, includes a one night pre and post cruise hotel stays and transportation to and from airport.

 

 

I can understand why some like the large rooms with lots of amenities and I thank them as they keep the cost of the lower end rooms cheaper.

 

Very true, my favorite was transatlantic 14 days " inside cabin" 429 dollars..Out of Venice...:-)

Edited October 17, 2015 by qtaromar1970

[FloatYourBoatSince2003]

We slept like babies with no lights from windows etc.

 

Yes that was certainly an unexpected positive on the last (inside) cabin we booked. We will book a balcony when the price difference is not too big because we do like to chill in our own "outside" space but the Haven isn't something we would pay for either - to stretch our vacation dollar as discussed...

 

Having said that I do defend the Haven folks for their choices and it isn't fair to label them as "snobby" or feeling superior.

 

Whatever floats your boat :)

[penwah2002]

I don't agree with this. There is a misconception that if someone isn't in the Haven, they can't afford it. That's simply not true. There are lots of people for whom the Haven doesn't appeal for a variety of reasons.

 

However, there are plenty of Haven guests who consider themselves to be above everyone else, and you can spot them on this forum, but especially on the ship. It's important to their self worth to be sure as many people as possible know they are in the Haven. These folks are in the minority, thankfully.

 

I'm thinking you just made a broad assessment not really knowing what you are talking about. The beauty of cruising is the ability to choose your accommodations. Haven guests, like myself enjoy every perk granted to us, we pay extra for this and if you think we are elitist and snobs then so be it. I'm sure if you were offered a Haven suite you wouldn't hesitate to accept it, of course if you could afford it. There in lies your problem.

[Merriem]

I'm thinking you just made a broad assessment not really knowing what you are talking about. The beauty of cruising is the ability to choose your accommodations. Haven guests, like myself enjoy every perk granted to us, we pay extra for this and if you think we are elitist and snobs then so be it. I'm sure if you were offered a Haven suite you wouldn't hesitate to accept it, of course if you could afford it. There in lies your problem

 

This last month the DOS on the Breakaway was the nicest we have had in 40 cruises. The view was to die for, and it was so quiet.

 

It isn't about being a snob, it is about how you want to spend your money. To us vacationing is all about relaxing and enjoying yourself.

 

To say that people who stay in the Haven are snobs is like staying that those to chose to stay in an inside cabin are cheap!

 

It is all about choices. The Haven was lovely, the staff very kind, and yes they did remember our names, and what we liked to drink.

 

We have 3 more NCL cruises booked in suites, but not on ships with The Haven. I am sure we will have a lovely time.

[NLH Arizona]

Hey, everyone books the cabin that they want to book and I'm surprised that some would generalize and say they are snobs or want to feel better than anyone else because they book a suite in the Haven. If someone wants to book a Haven suite, good for them, just as if someone wants to book an inside cabin, good for them as well. Don't judge a person by the cabin they sail in, how much money they have, the clothes they wear, the car they drive, etc., judge them by their actions.

 

BTW, no one should have to apologize or explain why they booked the cabin they sail in.

Edited October 17, 2015 by NLH Arizona

[Imasima752]

Hey, everyone books the cabin that they want to book and I'm surprised that some would generalize and say they are snobs or want to feel better than anyone else because they book a suite in the Haven. If someone wants to book a Haven suite, good for them, just as if someone wants to book an inside cabin, good for them as well. Don't judge a person by the cabin they sail in, how much money they have, the clothes they wear, the car they drive, etc., judge them by their actions.

 

BTW, no one should have to apologize or explain why they booked the cabin they sail in.

 

 

I couldn't agree more with everything you just said!

[SuiteCruiser]

Hey, everyone books the cabin that they want to book and I'm surprised that some would generalize and say they are snobs or want to feel better than anyone else because they book a suite in the Haven. If someone wants to book a Haven suite, good for them, just as if someone wants to book an inside cabin, good for them as well. Don't judge a person by the cabin they sail in, how much money they have, the clothes they wear, the car they drive, etc., judge them by their actions.

 

BTW, no one should have to apologize or explain why they booked the cabin they sail in.

 

I agree 100%, I've sailed in the biggest suites and the smallest insides and everything in between. I enjoy them all.

 

My attitude or personality doesn't change depending on my accommodation.

[LrgPizza]

I'm thinking you just made a broad assessment not really knowing what you are talking about. The beauty of cruising is the ability to choose your accommodations. Haven guests, like myself enjoy every perk granted to us, we pay extra for this and if you think we are elitist and snobs then so be it. I'm sure if you were offered a Haven suite you wouldn't hesitate to accept it, of course if you could afford it. There in lies your problem.

 

The next time read what you are quoting prior to quoting it. I clearly stated that those people are in the minority.

 

However, you did make a statement in your above post that proved my point. Thank you for the affirmation. Sucks to be in the minority, doesn't it?

Edited October 17, 2015 by LrgPizza

[wildwanderer]

I don't understand the class thing we got a suite with all the amenities, prepaid dsc for less then some people are paying for a balcony. We wanted a suite because in room dining means we can have a dinner with two children and not have to eat a buffet. The smaller private dining area means my kids will get to eat lunch and breakfast in a smaller area. Priority boarding means we won't wait in a crowded port but will be in a smaller area. My son is on the spectrum but anyone with two young kids could understand the kids will enjoy the cruise more, I will be less worried and for that reason I am thrilled. I would spend more then this in a heartbeat but we don't have a Haven just a suite. We aren't better then anyone just grateful that we will ALL have a great vacation.

[perditax]

Have you tried a luxury line? From what you are saying, I bet you would love it. Bigger rooms, less pax, great service, many are truly all inclusive down to shore excursions, and much quieter. All for the about the same, or sometimes less than the Haven.

 

 

I've looked at both Oceania and crystal, yes. Certain of their sailings are in my budget, especially if one is already looking at suite and concierge on the mass markets. Funnily enough, this is where I'm slightly concerned about the class issue. I don't disdain fancy dress at all, but I'm not too amazing at fashion choices. I also wasn't kidding when I said I don't need overly attentive service. That said, I definitely see Crystal in my future some day, and it WILL be for the smaller passenger load.

[Dawniepoo]

If I could afford it, our family would be sailing in suites. Unfortunately, we aren't financially able to YET :D. I won't begrudge anyone's choice in cabin selection, but I will be envious. It's in my nature :o.

[Merriem]

I've looked at both Oceania and crystal, yes. Certain of their sailings are in my budget, especially if one is already looking at suite and concierge on the mass markets. Funnily enough, this is where I'm slightly concerned about the class issue. I don't disdain fancy dress at all, but I'm not too amazing at fashion choices. I also wasn't kidding when I said I don't need overly attentive service. That said, I definitely see Crystal in my future some day, and it WILL be for the smaller passenger load.

 

Remember the cabins on Crystal are very small unless you go to the Penthouse starting level. 200 sq ft isn't very big and the bathrooms are tiny. Oceania is the same.

[picodrive]

I know you prefaced this with 'generally' but I still want to point out that in a lot of cases (me, for example), people are willing to pay extra for some peace and quiet. I can get extremely anxious in large crowds. I paid recently for DCL concierge, and while I appreciated the way the staff treated us like royalty, I really didn't need the level of service or to be made to feel 'important'. Some level of line/crowd/herding avoidance is what I paid for.

 

I'm torn on the Haven. It sounds nice, but I've read so many stories of the pool area being overrun by large families. What NCL (or another mass market line) could get me to pay out the wazoo for would be an adults-only version. (Yes, yes, I know drunk adults can be way more obnoxious than kids, but that is not usually the story when you read when people talk about the Haven pool area being non-peaceful.)

I have only one experience in the Haven and that was on the Getaway. From what you have described, peace and quiet and away from the crowds, I would highly recommend you try this. I think you will be very happy. As on any cruise, the number of kids is dictated by holidays or summer break so you might want to avoid those time frames if possible. Happy Cruising!!

[perditax]

Remember the cabins on Crystal are very small unless you go to the Penthouse starting level. 200 sq ft isn't very big and the bathrooms are tiny. Oceania is the same.

 

 

I like cruising solo and I loved my studio cabin on getaway. :)

[Jane Don]

Remember the cabins on Crystal are very small unless you go to the Penthouse starting level. 200 sq ft isn't very big and the bathrooms are tiny. Oceania is the same.

 

On Serenity, C Insides are 229 square feet and AA, A & B verandahs are 269, about the same size as an H9. Hardly a deal breaker.

 

My retirement dream is around the world on Regent. 2017 is $54k but it is 4 months or more and includes everything including flights and hotels and medical service. 2017 is waitlisted already for most categories.

[Merriem]

On Serenity, C Insides are 229 square feet and AA, A & B verandahs are 269, about the same size as an H9. Hardly a deal breaker.

 

My retirement dream is around the world on Regent. 2017 is $54k but it is 4 months or more and includes everything including flights and hotels and medical service. 2017 is waitlisted already for most categories.

 

We were in an a3 and that included the balcony. It was tiny. The bathroom was horribly small, and we found the cabin uncomfortable. It is 246 sq ft with the veranda.

[DevonianCruiser]

Wow there seems to be a lot of generalisation and assumption on this thread! What people do or don't book is up to them and doesn't give others an insight in to the type of person they are. I've had suites, balconies, outsides and insides and personally if the price is right I'd book a suite, if it isn't I won't. Doesn't change who I am.

 

I've been looking at one recently and a haven was £2,500 and a mini suite £700 - for the time of year, weather and itinerary the extra just wasn't worth the consideration . . . . .for ME. Others it may well be. Live and let live, life's to short to worry about whose doing what :D

[justhappy]

I'm just back from the Getaway, in the Haven. This is the first time in 17 cruises we have ever sailed in a concierge level stateroom. We were celebrating our 40th anniversary and wanted a romantic splurge. It only cost us $200 more then an 4e on a Disney ship (which is not concierge and has an extended veranda).

So if you want to use the pricey argument I guess it depends on the cruise line and what is typical for an average cabin.

As for why people cruise in the Haven or the same level on other lines, the reasons are limitless, and to say people do it so they can fell superior to others just shows a persons own feelings of inferiority IMHO. The same type of people walk by the first class section in an airplane and have the same thoughts.

We wanted to splurge for our big occasion and have the money to do so.

The only time any other passenger knew we were in the Haven was when returning from an excursion a lady behind me getting back on the ship saw my room key in my hand as I was about to reach the security desk and she asked me why my room keycard was a different color. I said I guess it was because we were in a Haven room and the cards were a different color. She said "ohhhh" with that tone in her voice like aren't you special, glanced at the lady with her,

I told her my husband and I were celebrating our 40 th anniversary and decided to splurge. Her tone immediately changed and she said that was great and Wished me a happy anniversary. Sad that her first response was the one it was. It later bothered me that I felt I had to defend my choice of cabin. Why should anyone have to defend how they spend their own hard earned money?

 

On the issue of kids taking over the haven pool, there were plenty of kids in the Haven area, but they were all well behaved, no running and screaming around the pool or hot tubs, luckily the same for the adults too! Just a few loud nonstop talkers which is annoying when you are trying to snooze or read on a lounger. We found that going to the upper lounge deck was more enjoyable because everyone up there was quiet and reading or napping, plus you have a great view of the ocean from those round covered Loungers.

And yes we were spoiled rotten, we finally had to ask our butler to not bring us food in the afternoon.He slacked off on how much he brought, we were feeling so wasteful that it was going uneaten.

We would enjoy staying inthe Haven again. But if not in the Haven,since the adult pool area is a lot louder than we enjoy, we would also be happy in an inside cabin but would go to the deck that is above the Haven on the port side forward for peace and quiet. Or we would buy Vibe passes if on an Away ship.

Edited October 18, 2015 by justhappy

[navybankerteacher]

[quote name=Merriem;48039229

 

...

 

Silversea.. Horrible. Spent $20' date='000 for a 9 night Vietnam cruise. Food was bad, ship was in poor condition, and the food was poor.

 

...

 

[/quote]

 

Wow - I'd guess you did not enjoy the meals: bad AND poor is a deadly combination.

[Merriem]

Wow - I'd guess you did not enjoy the meals: bad AND poor is a deadly combination.

 

Yes, and that ship the Silver Shadow flunked its health inspection when they hit Alaska.

 

http://www.cruiselawnews.com/2013/07/articles/norovirus/silver-shadow-fails-sanitation-inspection-after-caught-hiding-filthy-conditions-from-health-inspectors/

 

After they "got their act together" they just flunked it again.