2016 Itineraries Come Out When?

[tymike]

I am definitely planning to overnight after the flight from NYC to LAX (or Hawaii) in order to avoid being totally done in by the time we get to Tahiti. We also want two nights pre-cruise on the island.

 

Any recommendations as to LA hotels (at or very near the airport with shuttle service) and/or pre-cruise stay in Tahiti? I would like to stay a night or two after the cruise as well, but that remains to be seen. At this point, we are not devoted to the idea of a PG air/sea package as we have so much time to plan.

 

Thanks again...and again!

[Silver Sweethearts]

Finally (for now at least! :)), how much difference does having a butler on the ship make? It's a pretty port intensive cruise, with two overnights and one full sea day. This is indeed a bucket list trip, so I want to make really thought out decisions about what we book.

 

Although he was very pleasant and good at what he did, we really did not have much use for our butler. As with butlers on Silversea, he brought and set up our room service breakfast each morning and canapes at cocktail hour, but that was about it. We really didn't have anything extraordinary for him to do. Unless you will have specific needs for a butler, in this case we do not feel it is worth it.

Edited December 19, 2015 by Silver Sweethearts

[tymike]

Although he was very pleasant and good at what he did, we really did not have much use for our butler. As with butlers on Silversea, he brought and set up our room service breakfast each morning and canapes at cocktail hour, but that was about it. We really didn't have anything extraordinary for him to do. Unless you will have specific needs for a butler, in this case we do not feel it is worth it.

 

On PG, is there any way to have breakfast brought to the cabin without a butler?

 

I'm totally new to what PG's perks are with suites. I have read their website so I know the butler will unpack (I would never have them do that) and 'do about' laundry, but I really only care about room service (especially for breakfast) and snacks in the afternoon. Can you ask for what type of canapes you want?

 

Thanks to all!

[Silver Sweethearts]

On PG, is there any way to have breakfast brought to the cabin without a butler?

 

I'm totally new to what PG's perks are with suites. I have read their website so I know the butler will unpack (I would never have them do that) and 'do about' laundry, but I really only care about room service (especially for breakfast) and snacks in the afternoon. Can you ask for what type of canapes you want?

 

Thanks to all!

 

Unless things have changed, room service is available around the clock. We just ordered breakfast the night before on the order cards you leave outside your door. If you have a butler, it is served by him. If not, then room service does it we imagine. It was pleasant having breakfast in our (Grand) Suite because we had room to do so. We aren't sure if it would work in a smaller cabin.

 

As to canapes, we just asked for cheeses and such, but what showed up seemed be be whatever the galley had in mind (and, forgive us, not that good).

 

One fun thing was that our Hawaiian Airlines flight from Honolulu arrived late at night, but the ship promised to wait for passengers on the flight. When we finally arrived at the ship at almost midnight (turns out we were the only two Paul Gauguin passengers on the flight), the Hotel Manager and our butler (in tails even at that hour) came to the reception desk to greet us and have the butler escort us to our suite. A very nice touch indeed.

[Emdee]

I am definitely planning to overnight after the flight from NYC to LAX (or Hawaii) in order to avoid being totally done in by the time we get to Tahiti. We also want two nights pre-cruise on the island.

 

Any recommendations as to LA hotels (at or very near the airport with shuttle service) and/or pre-cruise stay in Tahiti? I would like to stay a night or two after the cruise as well, but that remains to be seen. At this point, we are not devoted to the idea of a PG air/sea package as we have so much time to plan.

 

Thanks again...and again!

 

LA has a host of hotels with free shuttle. We have stayed at the Hilton, the Radisson the Sheraton. Liked the Hilton best. All had shuttles to and from the airport.

 

In Tahiti I would strongly recommend the IC. The Pearl is run down and the Meridien is just Ok.

If you want to spend two nights away from Tahiti it's very easy to take a ferry to Moorea and when you return the ferry dock is a few steps from the PG.

[Emdee]

On PG, is there any way to have breakfast brought to the cabin without a butler?

 

I'm totally new to what PG's perks are with suites. I have read their website so I know the butler will unpack (I would never have them do that) and 'do about' laundry, but I really only care about room service (especially for breakfast) and snacks in the afternoon. Can you ask for what type of canapes you want?

 

Thanks to all!

 

I too didn't find much use for the butler though they are wonderful people. We actually like to have breakfast in the restaurant but they did bring me morning coffee each day and the canapés which we mostly didn't consume. They took our laundry away. I think they polished Colin's shoes once! Didn't ask them to unpack. Anyway next cruise I am back to deck 4!

 

Room service whether breakfast or meals is available in any class of cabin.

 

Have you looked at the PG Webinar? I saw one the other day and they are very well done for the newbie.

[Burpelson]

I can kinda see why pax want to overnight in LAX; it's grueling from the East coast, etc. That said, why not tough it out and get early to PPT and relax there for a night or two or three? Or both ; ) I dunno. I'll first time on PG in 2017, and will go w/o the stopover. But hopefully will walk around the cabin a lot. And hopefully do Delta/AF, rather than the poorly reviewed seats on ATN. Depends on the dollars though. I'll pay some more for that, but not a lot more.

[Emdee]

I can kinda see why pax want to overnight in LAX; it's grueling from the East coast, etc. That said, why not tough it out and get early to PPT and relax there for a night or two or three? Or both ; ) I dunno. I'll first time on PG in 2017, and will go w/o the stopover. But hopefully will walk around the cabin a lot. And hopefully do Delta/AF, rather than the poorly reviewed seats on ATN. Depends on the dollars though. I'll pay some more for that, but not a lot more.

 

We have decided to stay longer on the PG and am considering sitting in coach. Of course may break our resolve and upgrade when the time comes. Hoping that ATN has day flights both ways. It's the nights that kill me.

[tymike]

Thanks to all about answers regarding flights/butler service etc. Now for the (not nearly I hope) $64,000 question.

 

I've been pricing out cabins with my TA. I've ruled out the Grand Suite and pretty much the Veranda Suite. I am really liking the Veranda Stateroom (category B), but I've also asked the TA for pricing on the aft balcony staterooms (no butler). I plan on applying any savings to bumping the comfort level on the flights. I'm also aware that this cruise is port intensive with only one sea day, so the cabin may not be the MOST important thing. But I love a nice cabin, and I definitely want a balcony.

 

Can I please ask for feedback on whether or not it is 'worth it' to stay in an 'A' vs. 'B' suite as opposed to an aft balcony stateroom? I'd love to hear your experience of your staterooms as well as any pictures if possible. I have looked at the virtual tours on PG's website, but first hand knowledge is always more valuable. I also welcome recommendations regarding specific cabins.

 

I will also check out the webinar! Thanks for that tip!

 

Once again, your help is invaluable! Thank you tons.

[twin123185]

Thanks to all about answers regarding flights/butler service etc. Now for the (not nearly I hope) $64,000 question.

 

I've been pricing out cabins with my TA. I've ruled out the Grand Suite and pretty much the Veranda Suite. I am really liking the Veranda Stateroom (category B), but I've also asked the TA for pricing on the aft balcony staterooms (no butler). I plan on applying any savings to bumping the comfort level on the flights. I'm also aware that this cruise is port intensive with only one sea day, so the cabin may not be the MOST important thing. But I love a nice cabin, and I definitely want a balcony.

 

Can I please ask for feedback on whether or not it is 'worth it' to stay in an 'A' vs. 'B' suite as opposed to an aft balcony stateroom? I'd love to hear your experience of your staterooms as well as any pictures if possible. I have looked at the virtual tours on PG's website, but first hand knowledge is always more valuable. I also welcome recommendations regarding specific cabins.

 

I will also check out the webinar! Thanks for that tip!

 

Once again, your help is invaluable! Thank you tons.

 

Oh boy you asked for it:

 

Stay in a porthole or window stateroom and save all that money to go back again - you might not think you are but you will.

I understand why you would want a balcony. I stayed in one once on the PG BUT you will be on deck much more than in your room - the ship is a great balcony. Forget the butler. If you have to stay in a balcony room stay on deck 6. I love 310 but balcony - I like the first ones - 625 on one side and I don't remember the other side. I stayed in aft balconies on the Tahitian Princess and that WAS great. Most of the repeaters on this board are going to tell you to stay on deck 3 or 4 - you watch.........That's how we all get to BE repeaters!

[tymike]

Love the response!!! That's what I'm looking for! Keep them coming experts!!:)

[Wendy The Wanderer]

I disagree with Emdee that the Meridien is "just okay". We really liked it, although we were there for only one night. I'd certainly go back there. I'm not a big fan of the IC, although I admit I haven't been there for a long time. The Pearl, which used to be the Radisson is reportedly rundown--I hope the Pearl people fix that because it's a stunning location.

[Emdee]

I disagree with Emdee that the Meridien is "just okay". We really liked it, although we were there for only one night. I'd certainly go back there. I'm not a big fan of the IC, although I admit I haven't been there for a long time. The Pearl, which used to be the Radisson is reportedly rundown--I hope the Pearl people fix that because it's a stunning location.

 

Wendy, may I respectfully point out that you haven't been to the IC recently....

 

I found this Meridien on the low end of Meridien standard. The pool was just OK but nowhere near the IC infinity. Same comment on the food. The IC is perfectly located and close to Carrefours if you want to pick up anything. I would happily use the Meridien if I was counting costs or for a day room like the last time.Our room had no towels last year and the service was very slow even for FP.

 

The old rad is out of the question. Mossies, Air Con not always working. That being said we always had a suite there and they were nice. However, I wouldn't stay there again.

 

I would recommend a panoramic room at the IC. They Overlook the infinity pool and a lovely view of Moorea.

[Emdee]

Thanks to all about answers regarding flights/butler service etc. Now for the (not nearly I hope) $64,000 question.

 

I've been pricing out cabins with my TA. I've ruled out the Grand Suite and pretty much the Veranda Suite. I am really liking the Veranda Stateroom (category B), but I've also asked the TA for pricing on the aft balcony staterooms (no butler). I plan on applying any savings to bumping the comfort level on the flights. I'm also aware that this cruise is port intensive with only one sea day, so the cabin may not be the MOST important thing. But I love a nice cabin, and I definitely want a balcony.

 

Can I please ask for feedback on whether or not it is 'worth it' to stay in an 'A' vs. 'B' suite as opposed to an aft balcony stateroom? I'd love to hear your experience of your staterooms as well as any pictures if possible. I have looked at the virtual tours on PG's website, but first hand knowledge is always more valuable. I also welcome recommendations regarding specific cabins.

 

I will also check out the webinar! Thanks for that tip!

 

Once again, your help is invaluable! Thank you tons.

 

Since you are looking at suites may I suggest the B suites. I haven't been in the A but stayed twice in the B. Once upgraded and once I sprung for last year. The location cannot be beaten. The best part is they are right by the Pool Bar and the Pool. So easy to go outside if you want to take pics or grab a drink. On the way back from excursions we would just put in our drink order and Randy would kindly come by with it 5 mins later. When one of us was in the shower the other could sit on the balcony and sip a refreshing drink. Love that location but promised DD that I would not be spending her inheritance....so back to deck 4 we go.

i know a couple of people who stayed in the back balconies. Both felt semi negative about them. For one thing you can hear the music from la Palette at night. The sliding doors were not efficient and also one person said that the placement of the vent was not optimum and had to tape a towel to redirect the air con. Finally any cabin on deck 7 is noisy each morning when pool chairs are being placed and dragged.

So If you want a balcony I would suggest the 8 th deck. You have to remember that those back balconies were a lovely deck once. Wendy you probably remember them? When they were retrofitted into cabins everything didn't end up perfect.

Edited December 19, 2015 by Emdee

[Emdee]

Thymike as you can see all of us regulars have our own favourites and our own opinions. However, all of us agree on one thing...there is NOTHING like the PG.

 

When the staff hug us on arrival and say welcome home the warmth of the incredible staff just fill our hearts. I am tearing just thinking of my long wait....why the heck did I agree to a Crystal cruise and the Camino next year!

[Silver Sweethearts]

tymike - You have to ask yourself how much you are going to be on the go and how much you are going to want private time. If you only use your cabin to sleep and shower, it would obviously be foolish to go with an A or a B. If you prefer room to lounge and space to enjoy cocktails just for two served by your butler, then A or B it is. We agree with Emdee that deck 8 is nice. No matter what you choose, and you may have done this already, study the deck plans to see what is above, below and beside the cabin you have in mind and pick your specific cabin and not just any A, B or C. If you can't figure it out, do ask this message board. Your honeymoon is a memory you should cherish forever, and keep up the effort you have shown to make the right choices so that you will have wonderful memories.

[FlightMedic555]

We've been on the ship 4 times, always on deck 3 or 4. The last cruise due to a problem we were moved to deck 6 for two nights, very close to the back of,the ship. We really did feel the motion of the ocean I that cabin and it was not pretty. Cabins on deck 3, 4 and 6 are all the exact same size. Deck 3 has 2 portholes, deck 4 a window, and deck 6 a small balcony.

 

I'd rather use the $$ for a longer cruise or to stay pre/post cruise than a higher cabin.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Just remember that the A and B suites are just a tiny bit bigger than standard. I love the little cabins on the PG, they are very well thought-out, but they are small, no getting around it. But there is room to sit for two, and the bedding is lovely.

 

I was only in a B suite once, and I loved being up on the pool deck, but other than that, I don't think the price is worth it. I think the cabins on deck 4, with a window, mid-ship, are perfect.

[tymike]

Hi all, and continued thanks for all the information about everything!! I haven't heard from my TA yet re: pricing for the aft balconies, but based on the above report of noise/motion etc., I'm thinking to stick to the B suite. Do any wise posters on this board have a specific recommendation for a cabin in that category?

 

I totally understand that we would save $ by having a window or porthole cabin, but as this is our honeymoon and it's a bucket list trip we are going to do the suite thing! I do, actually, believe that we will do PG again, but probably in a much less 'fancy' way than this time.

 

I'm also torn between staying at the IC in Tahiti vs. Moorea for the two days pre-cruise. Any advice is welcome!

 

I can't thank everyone enough!

[Emdee]

Hi all, and continued thanks for all the information about everything!! I haven't heard from my TA yet re: pricing for the aft balconies, but based on the above report of noise/motion etc., I'm thinking to stick to the B suite. Do any wise posters on this board have a specific recommendation for a cabin in that category?

 

I totally understand that we would save $ by having a window or porthole cabin, but as this is our honeymoon and it's a bucket list trip we are going to do the suite thing! I do, actually, believe that we will do PG again, but probably in a much less 'fancy' way than this time.

 

I'm also torn between staying at the IC in Tahiti vs. Moorea for the two days pre-cruise. Any advice is welcome!

 

I can't thank everyone enough!

 

I liked both ones I have been in. Nearer to the pool than the front. Although we were close to the butlers pantry or the pool bar pantry on either side. Didn't hear a peep out of the staff. We were in 816 and 817. Both really close to the elevators but far enough to hear nothing. Finally, when there was music at night we never heard a thing either. I would take another B in a heartbeat.....its just that I am now retired and font want to spend the $

 

Yes they are only slightly bigger but the little difference in size makes a big difference.

[twin123185]

Hi all, and continued thanks for all the information about everything!! I haven't heard from my TA yet re: pricing for the aft balconies, but based on the above report of noise/motion etc., I'm thinking to stick to the B suite. Do any wise posters on this board have a specific recommendation for a cabin in that category?

 

 

 

I totally understand that we would save $ by having a window or porthole cabin, but as this is our honeymoon and it's a bucket list trip we are going to do the suite thing! I do, actually, believe that we will do PG again, but probably in a much less 'fancy' way than this time.

 

 

 

I'm also torn between staying at the IC in Tahiti vs. Moorea for the two days pre-cruise. Any advice is welcome!

 

 

 

I can't thank everyone enough!

 

 

If you want to swim in nicer water go to MOOREA. If you want to get used to tune change stay in Tahiti then one of the days you stop at MOOREA rent a car. I think k for MOOREA you should consider a three night pre. 2 is rushing it being you are starting on the east coastZ

Edited December 20, 2015 by twin123185

[Emdee]

If you want to swim in nicer water go to MOOREA. If you want to get used to tune change stay in Tahiti then one of the days you stop at MOOREA rent a car. I think k for MOOREA you should consider a three night pre. 2 is rushing it being you are starting on the east coastZ

 

Three nights in Moorea is wonderful but even two s Ok if they stay at the IC the first night and take the morning ferry to Moorea.

 

My preference is the Sofitel. But everyone loves the Hilton as well. Best price will be IC thru the ship.

[twin123185]

I am in the minority as I like the Tahiti IC more than the one on MOOREA. Also most people on these boards when it comes to swimming and snorkeling prefer the Hilton. Emdee and I are the only ones it seems who love the Sofitel. It also is the most expensive I think. Wendy will tell you to stay at Les Tipaniers for an authentic experience but they don't have a/c.

[Emdee]

I am in the minority as I like the Tahiti IC more than the one on MOOREA. Also most people on these boards when it comes to swimming and snorkeling prefer the Hilton. Emdee and I are the only ones it seems who love the Sofitel. It also is the most expensive I think. Wendy will tell you to stay at Les Tipaniers for an authentic experience but they don't have a/c.

 

Sofitel has some deals. AMEX plat gives you Platinum status so you get some love in terms of upgrades etc. we do like the ACCOR group who I believe recently bought Fairmont another hotel group we love.

 

I was told by a Moorea local that the water around the IC is not 'fresh' . They used to have a boat that went across to a Motu and we once took it but I found the undertow uncomfortable for sitting in the water.

 

Our love affair with Sofitel Moorea began when all PG cruisers were allowed to spend the day on their beach in Regent days. Last year we took a day room there for when we were in Moorea and I certainly will do that if possible. The Sofitel does have bugs maybe sand flies and Colin had his legs covered with them when we stayed there. Fortunately an antihistamine settled him . They didn't itch unlike their NZ relatives nor did they swell up like their Dubai cousins. You can tell the poor man attracts this species. Fortunately the Dubai and Moorea residents didn't consider me a tasty treat!

 

I have been thrice to the Hilton twice in its previous life as a Sheraton. I read that they have special lights under the OWBs that encouraged corals. People like it for its convenience and because it's not so European as the Sofitel.

[Silver Sweethearts]

Hi all, and continued thanks for all the information about everything!! I haven't heard from my TA yet re: pricing for the aft balconies, but based on the above report of noise/motion etc., I'm thinking to stick to the B suite. Do any wise posters on this board have a specific recommendation for a cabin in that category?

 

We can agree about the vibration being felt in the aft area. It even made the glassware rattle in L'Etoile.

 

As to deck 8, we found the staff access areas around 818 to be rather busy, and don't know if doors banging would be a problem or not. Perhaps a little further up the corridor would be better. We were at the end of the corridor, which was great because it was private, but we did get some motion being far forward.

 

As a side note, if you are balcony people as we are, you will appreciate that a B balcony is almost twenty square feet larger than a C or D balcony.