HELP (me choose a cruiseline)!

[hayesktrm]

We are booked in 2007 on the Vision going out of Seattle to Alaska. We got a good price (much cheaper than if we went out of Vancouver...yeah, I know that's a much nicer ship). My parents live in Seattle (they're joining us), so that's where we want to sail out of. Now I'm starting to have second thoughts. I want a nice ship at a reasonable price. We went on the Enchantment and loved it (although I thought she was showing her age a bit). We have also sailed on Disney (loved it but thought there could have been more activities for adults and I missed the casino). Our first cruise was on Carnival and although it was fun, I don't think I'd do Carnival again. So, left is Holland America which would be great for my parents, but it looks like my kids wouldn't have enough to do. Also, Princess, but they are a bit expensive. I was wondering about NCL. I saw some good prices for their new ship, the Pearl. I know nothing about NCL except I know they had lots of problems with the Pride of America at first. It looks like a nice, new beautiful ship with lots and bells and whistles. Could I get some honest opinions. I'll also go over to the NCL board, but I wanted some RCL past passengers to give me their opinions first. I'm not a very picky person when it comes to cruises...I'm just happy I'm on vacation, but I want this to be extra special because we are taking my parents as their Christmas present.

 

Thanks!

[Sue L]

I am going on the Seranade out of Vancouver but we are flying into Seattle because it is a lot cheaper for us to fly there, almost 700$ difference. And my DD will be living in Seattle for the summer so it is just easier for us. Then we are either going to rent a car or do Amtrak to to Vancouver why don't you consider doing something like this.

 

The Serenade is lots of glass which is perfect for the views of Alaska. Also in my research I was told that out of Seattle is much rougher because you are in open water as opposed to the inside passage.

 

You also might want to post this on the Alaska board where there are some extremely seasoned cruisers as well as quite a few Alaska residents.

 

 

Sue

[wrp96]

Can't comment on NCL itself, but I know that the Pearl will be brand new and that it has one of the better itineraries out of Seattle. I do think you are really limiting yourself though by not looking at Vancouver. There are some great deals on Vancouver flights next year due to the new passport rules.

[cruisedaze1929]

Hi,

I have been on NCL prior to freestly cruising and after it has been implemented, Here is my honest op:

 

Prior to Freestyle :

The food was somewhat good I rated it about a 6.5

The entertainment such as show was superb

Kids program was good also

The crew service was good

 

NCL IN ITS CURRENT STATE:

 

The food is lacking to say the least. The buffet can sometimes be horrid(INC cold food)

I got the root of the problem from a waiter whom i became friendly with.

The food is served from about 4:00pm till 10:00pm. Where anyone can come into the dining room and eat whenever. Dont you think for one minute the food is being prepared all night. Its cook early and left under warming lights for hours. The lobster was unedible.

 

Service:

Ever since they went to prepaid tips, the service is lacking dramaticly.

 

Entertainment:

Still as good as ever.

IMHO NCL no way

Yoyr kids will have fun but your food and service will have alot left to be desired

 

PS it took me 3 calls to have my cabin cleaned, They showed up one night at 7:00pm

[Barbee524]

There are some great deals on Vancouver flights next year due to the new passport rules.

 

OK what airline. I can't find anything less than $600 to Vancouver for next May out of Chicago.

[TEXASMUNK]

is your itinerary inside passage or outside passage?

[spam-la]

I took the Vision to AK and had a great time. we left from Vancouver....I just took her to Mexico and she has been through dry dock and looks new. Not a Voyager class ship by any means, but if wear and tear is what you are worried about don't. I had great service, and good food too. Also the new beds are in. good luck in your decision.

 

I heard NCL sold (to a middleeastern group?) and the service has gone down....not sure if this is rumor or truth. Anybody know??

[hayesktrm]

Inside passage. I still haven't made a decision yet. If NCL's food and service were up to par, I would definitely choose NCL Star. They have many restaurant options and a lot of extra things to do. They also have one more port than the Vision. It's scary trying a new cruiseline.