What was your upgrade offer and what did you bid

[All-ready2cruise]

Okay, I would like to hear some opinions. As you can see by the signature, it has been a very long time since we went on a cruise. Last cruise was on the Sea, which was less than half the size of the Getaway, and we had a smaller, port hole window cabin on that cruise. This time we are in what I think is an awesome location (forward, starboard, deck 8) with a mini-suite, large balcony with no obstructions. We have already paid off the cruise plus our excursions, already have the UBP and 3-day specialty dining, and all grats are paid. That said, we still have a "hefty" budget to play with.

With all the changes on the ships since our last cruise, should I even bother to try and bid up to a Haven cabin? Or should I just keep my existing cabin and spend my money for thinIgs like the Thermal Spa, Vibe (if possible), the casino, shopping, etc?

All opinions welcomed.

 

In my opinion, if you have some extra that you've budgetted for, you would likely really enjoy experiencing the Haven. However, what I would do is check the prices on the NCL site first so you have an idea of the expectations of NCL. It may be beneficial for you to simply call and ask how much it would be to simply upgrade... pay the diff. between what you have and what you'd like. They may give a price you like. Otherwise, yes, bid what you're comfortable with, no more, no less.

 

Good luck either way.

[YVRBassElectric]

Okay, I would like to hear some opinions. As you can see by the signature, it has been a very long time since we went on a cruise. Last cruise was on the Sea, which was less than half the size of the Getaway, and we had a smaller, port hole window cabin on that cruise. This time we are in what I think is an awesome location (forward, starboard, deck 8) with a mini-suite, large balcony with no obstructions. We have already paid off the cruise plus our excursions, already have the UBP and 3-day specialty dining, and all grats are paid. That said, we still have a "hefty" budget to play with.

With all the changes on the ships since our last cruise, should I even bother to try and bid up to a Haven cabin? Or should I just keep my existing cabin and spend my money for things like the Thermal Spa, Vibe (if possible), the casino, shopping, etc?

All opinions welcomed.

 

I will give you my opinion about why I choose the Haven. If you don't mind lining up & always having people around, you might prefer to spend your money at the casino or shopping.

 

I haven't been on the Getaway yet, but just came off the Bliss. For me, I loved the stability of the large ship (as I am prone to seasickness & haven't found anything that combats it 100%) but I need an escape from 4,000 passengers. On your itinerary, I wouldn't want to use the Thermal Spa, I would want a break from the heat outside.

 

If you are in the Haven, you will be escorted off (and around the crowd) for the first 1/2 hour or so, at every port - line ups are LONG for non-Haven passengers, if you aren't on a ship shore excursion.

 

Some people have an easy time finding a favourite bar/bartender/waiter & being served great drinks, that isn't my experience, in the Haven, I always had a drink I enjoyed when I wanted it (bar staff, found me in my quiet corner).

 

The first time I was upgraded to a suite I was on the Dawn, sailing at capacity with 800 kids, didn't have a proper "Haven" but a restaurant for breakfast & lunch (and huge suite balcony) was enough of a break from the crowd, that I enjoyed the cruise. I would have hated fighting for a seat in the buffet.

 

I am assuming you know about the butler & concierge, so haven't talked about how nice they make the Haven experience.

[All-ready2cruise]

Well said, YVR.... the suites on NCL are really what has made it one of the best cruise lines, again JMO. I've cruised in regular suites, and though they haven't been Haven suites, they have been wonderful and if you can make it happen within your budget...just DO it...

 

Cheers.

[kcdcac13]

You are correct about only the first 2 in cabin pay the upgrade. You should do it if you can afford. It is AMAZING!!!! But know that you may never be able to go back - we upgraded once and have been doing Haven ever since at full price because we don't want to take a chance of NOT getting a Haven.

 

:'):') I believe it is very likely we would never want to go in anything but Haven if we were lucky enough for our bid to be accepted!

[YVRBassElectric]

:'):') I believe it is very likely we would never want to go in anything but Haven if we were lucky enough for our bid to be accepted!

 

that's what happened to us......upgraded in 2016, next cruise sailed with friends in a mini-suite, have stayed in suites since. Kinda like when we upgraded to a balcony, couldn't go back to inside

[jeffregpuck]

Ahh...I'm starting to see these July sailings getting picked!! Excited and nervous!! If not....I love my balcony. It's on my favorite location on the ship....but sure would be fun to get a Haven Suite!!!

[mom on coast]

Okay, I would like to hear some opinions. As you can see by the signature, it has been a very long time since we went on a cruise. Last cruise was on the Sea, which was less than half the size of the Getaway, and we had a smaller, port hole window cabin on that cruise. This time we are in what I think is an awesome location (forward, starboard, deck 8) with a mini-suite, large balcony with no obstructions. We have already paid off the cruise plus our excursions, already have the UBP and 3-day specialty dining, and all grats are paid. That said, we still have a "hefty" budget to play with.

With all the changes on the ships since our last cruise, should I even bother to try and bid up to a Haven cabin? Or should I just keep my existing cabin and spend my money for things like the Thermal Spa, Vibe (if possible), the casino, shopping, etc?

All opinions welcomed.

Believe me, you won't regret the Haven. The restaurant, even though menu doesn't change, is excellent. Your own lounging area. You are treated like royalty. it's pricey, but, unfortunately, it's like they say, you sail the haven, you can't go back.

[GA Dave]

Thanks for the advice all. My wife agrees with the comment about the Thermal Spa being a waste on a four-stop Caribbean cruise in September. We have become used to being spoiled lately, so we may go for it with a good bid and see what happens. All categories except Owner’s suite are still open for our cruise and I noticed the prices have also dropped recently. Guess that is good news.

[Sand and Seas]

Believe me, you won't regret the Haven. The restaurant, even though menu doesn't change, is excellent. Your own lounging area. You are treated like royalty. it's pricey, but, unfortunately, it's like they say, you sail the haven, you can't go back.

There is a number of us (perhaps a small number!) who haven't felt the need to return to the Haven.

 

While we enjoyed our one Haven experience on the Getaway, we really don't need to do that again. Loved the Haven Restaurant and bar, but really didn't need the butler service. Also didn't get to enjoy the Haven pool & hot tub area due to the number of children onboard. Very happy that we got a chance to cruise the Haven as a special offer from Caesars but that didn't make us want the Haven above all else. (Would rather cruise more often.)

For those of you who can't cruise more often and need to make the most of those precious vacation days, hope you get a great deal on an upgrade so you can enjoy the Haven.....but if you don't get it, enjoy being at sea! Good luck all:cool:

[JulesAS]

We were on the May 29 Baltic cruise on the Breakaway. We bid $965.00 each for a H6, H7, H9 Suite, which is the very low end of Fair. We did not win a bid.

[njkate]

There is a number of us (perhaps a small number!) who haven't felt the need to return to the Haven.

 

While we enjoyed our one Haven experience on the Getaway, we really don't need to do that again. Loved the Haven Restaurant and bar, but really didn't need the butler service. Also didn't get to enjoy the Haven pool & hot tub area due to the number of children onboard. Very happy that we got a chance to cruise the Haven as a special offer from Caesars but that didn't make us want the Haven above all else. (Would rather cruise more often.)

For those of you who can't cruise more often and need to make the most of those precious vacation days, hope you get a great deal on an upgrade so you can enjoy the Haven.....but if you don't get it, enjoy being at sea! Good luck all:cool:

Funny you should mention this, there were two posters just off The Breakaway Baltic cruise that commented on bratty kids in Haven, like ringing doorbells at night, the one poster said they were rude and demanding to wait staff and they were spoilt brats. That would have made me pizzed if I paid rack rate for Haven and had to deal with bratty kids, it would be nice if they made Haven area adults only lol

[GA Dave]

Funny you should mention this, there were two posters just off The Breakaway Baltic cruise that commented on bratty kids in Haven, like ringing doorbells at night, the one poster said they were rude and demanding to wait staff and they were spoilt brats. That would have made me pizzed if I paid rack rate for Haven and had to deal with bratty kids, it would be nice if they made Haven area adults only lol

 

This is the main reason my wife and I are very hesitant to even bid for a Haven cabin. We have been empty nesters for quite a while now and cannot stomach how out of control some people allow their children to act in public. The mini-suite we are currently assigned to is in an area that has been noted by others here on CC as being very quiet and we have a private balcony. I hate to bid up to Haven and wind up on Deck 15 near the main pool and having to deal with everyone's bratty kids.

[njkate]

This is the main reason my wife and I are very hesitant to even bid for a Haven cabin. We have been empty nesters for quite a while now and cannot stomach how out of control some people allow their children to act in public. The mini-suite we are currently assigned to is in an area that has been noted by others here on CC as being very quiet and we have a private balcony. I hate to bid up to Haven and wind up on Deck 15 near the main pool and having to deal with everyone's bratty kids.

Yes, I'm in a mini with large balcony on deck 8.

I am a mother and a grandmother and just appalled at how some of these kiddos are little hooligans.

If I paid that much money for a Haven, unfortunately my mouth would have no filter if area had bratty spoiled kids running around.

[Hockeydad1972]

Anyone hear anything for the Sunday's Getaway? I did notice that yesterday AM there were 12 Haven rooms left then by last evening they were all saying Sold Out.. Appears they were getting ready to award but you never know.. 🤔

[Alyand]

Anyone hear anything for the Sunday's Getaway? I did notice that yesterday AM there were 12 Haven rooms left then by last evening they were all saying Sold Out.. Appears they were getting ready to award but you never know.. 🤔

 

good luck - you sound like me I check all the time on what rooms are available. Must be hockey families!

 

I bid for upgrade on getaway for July 15 cruise. I guess it will be a long wait -

[Sand and Seas]

This is the main reason my wife and I are very hesitant to even bid for a Haven cabin. We have been empty nesters for quite a while now and cannot stomach how out of control some people allow their children to act in public. The mini-suite we are currently assigned to is in an area that has been noted by others here on CC as being very quiet and we have a private balcony. I hate to bid up to Haven and wind up on Deck 15 near the main pool and having to deal with everyone's bratty kids.

If you want to enjoy a quiet relaxing place with wonderful views suggest you try purchasing spa passes. Adults only and very relaxing.

[Alyand]

How much more would it cost to directly upgrade to the haven instead of your bid ?

 

I called today and was quoted $5800 to upgrade from midship mini suite on the getaway to the "lowest haven category" Not sure what the lowest one is.

 

This was thru the casino services.

[kcdcac13]

Yes, I'm in a mini with large balcony on deck 8.

I am a mother and a grandmother and just appalled at how some of these kiddos are little hooligans.

If I paid that much money for a Haven, unfortunately my mouth would have no filter if area had bratty spoiled kids running around.

 

If I ever found my kids to be acting up on holiday god help them! :') So far I seem to have brought them up better and no matter where we we're staying I would make it quite clear any bothersome little cherubs;) need dealing with ;p

[styme123]

If I ever found my kids to be acting up on holiday god help them! :') So far I seem to have brought them up better and no matter where we we're staying I would make it quite clear any bothersome little cherubs;) need dealing with ;p

I got the email offering an upgrade today and have been spending HOURS reading all the posts about upgrading. I'm getting a little obsessed with it ;p. I originally booked a balcony and bid on 3 of the Haven suites. The Spa Haven is really the one I was hoping for. My husband wanted the thermal suite access. I bid very low so not sure how that will work out. After reading through some of the posts about the Haven having unruly, noisy kids running around etc., I'm having second thoughts and wondering if it's worth the extra money? When I watched the promo videos for it, it seemed wonderful. Even with the minimum bids it's $500pp so $1000 more than I'm paying now. Should I just keep my balcony, pay for the spa separately if we want and call it a day? Should I withdraw my bids and just call later to see if there are upgrades as it gets closer to my sail date? At least then there is no minimum bid also.

[Trimone]

You find it everywhere in the world with wealthy people, they have a break with the children, the nanny is left at home, and the parents are obsessed about themselves, and couldn’t care less how the children behave.

I have 4 cruise next left, after that it will be children free cruising.

[mom on coast]

If you really hate kids then go for an adult only cruise or cruise when the kids are in school. yes, kids can be unruly but it wouldn't stop me from booking the Haven. Would you rather not be in a secluded area with 10x the amount of kids at the pools? There can be some unruly adults too. You have to read the reviews with a big box of Morton Salt!

[pe4all]

I got the email offering an upgrade today and have been spending HOURS reading all the posts about upgrading. I'm getting a little obsessed with it ;p. I originally booked a balcony and bid on 3 of the Haven suites. The Spa Haven is really the one I was hoping for. My husband wanted the thermal suite access. I bid very low so not sure how that will work out. After reading through some of the posts about the Haven having unruly, noisy kids running around etc., I'm having second thoughts and wondering if it's worth the extra money? When I watched the promo videos for it, it seemed wonderful. Even with the minimum bids it's $500pp so $1000 more than I'm paying now. Should I just keep my balcony, pay for the spa separately if we want and call it a day? Should I withdraw my bids and just call later to see if there are upgrades as it gets closer to my sail date? At least then there is no minimum bid also.

I had the same "problem" on my upcoming Baltic cruise in August. Received the upgrade email about a week ago, with all the Haven cabins (H2-H9) up for bid. We always choose cabins we would be happy with when we initially book - in this case adjoining family balcony cabins. I have always wanted to try the Haven, but in this case putting in even the minimum bid would add thousands onto our price. I decided that - on this itinerary- we would be off the ship so much we would not benefit as much as I wanted from having a Haven cabin, and putting that money towards incredible excursions would be more practical. In your case it might be better to keep the cabin you have if you are happy with it and just get spa passes.

[Trimone]

Sorry, I have just returned from the Baltic on the Breakaway in the Haven, I have witnessed kids running up and down corridors ringing doorbells, at 10pm, taking over the hot tubs, even whilst being underage.

Unfortunately I find the concerage are unwilling to say anything, just in case it upsets some parents! I have always taken our children on cruises when younger, but my children have manners, and never shove food in their face whilst on the phone, I may add this also happens in the Haven restaurant.

[styme123]

If you really hate kids then go for an adult only cruise or cruise when the kids are in school. yes, kids can be unruly but it wouldn't stop me from booking the Haven. Would you rather not be in a secluded area with 10x the amount of kids at the pools? There can be some unruly adults too. You have to read the reviews with a big box of Morton Salt!

I don't hate kids at all. I have some of my own and work in a school so it's not that I don't want to be around them. If the haven is supposed to be a "special" "exclusive" place that your spending a lot of extra money on, then I think the unruliness (adults or children) should be kept to a minimum by staff. If not, it might not be worth the extra bidding money.

[Trimone]

Problem with some people they think of the Haven monetary value, status and not what it is, it’s only the cruising standards of yesteryears, before standards and prices dropped.