Expectations for second cruise - HELP

[dec2007w3boys]

We are 11 days always from boarding our second cruise. :D This one will be on the Freedom; our first was on the Valor. Ok - where should I set my expectations? I went on the first cruise looking to have a nice time, see some neat places and eat some good food. Well, we had all of that and so much more. It was by far the best trip we ever took. We loved the staff, the shows, the service, the casino, the dining room servers.... I could go on and on. Now, I am afraid that I have my expectations for my second trip to high. Anyone else ever feel this? Or for those who remember their second, how did it compare to the first?

One last caveat - we are taking my dad and his wife who have listened to us go on and on about how great cruising is - maybe I should have been less enthusiastic??

[bnsilly]

Try not to go with expectations, then you will be pleasantly surprised and not disappointed...I think sometimes we set ourselves up by having our expectations so very high..

[beach410]

My second was better then my first and my last cruise was the best by far. I cant help but have my expectations high, but I am realistic too as to small things that can ruin others vacations, but I dont let them ruin mine. I am sure it will be wonderful, I havent sailed on Freedom, but recommend reading some of the recent reviews to help set your expectations and your parents. Enjoy! We look forward to your review when you get home!

[Grits53]

We thought our first cruise was the best. But we have taken others since then that we said, "This is the best". So I'd say we've had, oh, at least 3 "best cruises" so far! LOL! They're all a little different, even on the same ship and same itinerary. Many factors can influence how much you enjoy a cruise. Weather is unpredictable and can play a major part in the experience as a whole. Our 2nd cruise was NOT as good as the first, due to weather. But it was still great! Personally, I think you might be worrying just a little too much. ;) It will be another great cruise, with all new experiences. ENJOY!

PS - By all means, take your dad and his wife to the Supper Club!! It will be the highlight of your cruise!

[dec2007w3boys]

So I'd say we've had, oh, at least 3 "best cruises" so far!

That is great - just what I am hoping to experience! I know, I worry, but I figured I couldn't be the only one!

[AZ Karaoke Girl]

I booked a 3rd cruise, 2nd with Carnival so my kids could experience all the things that were so great for us. I sure hope our cruise in February will be every bit as good as our other cruises for my kids first cruise.

[MonaCK]

Go into the cruise with the realization that there is no such thing as perfect. If something does happen that's negative, let it roll off of your back and realize that you're on vacation, and overall, you're having fun. Remember. Even a bad cruise is better than a good day at work. ;)

[SunnyinMA]

In my experience...nothing is like the first b/c you have nothing to compare it to while you are there. We walked off the first ship wide-eyed, in love and ready for the next one. Now we do find ourselves a bit jaded and comparing this to that, whats better, whats worse etc. when we go. Don't get me wrong, we still have a good time and look forward to each one but nothing is like the first time when it's all new...

[cruise.freak]

When you go don't compare cruises. We compared our first (RCL) to our second (Carnival Elation) and was disappointed. Two us RCL is so much better but we usually book with Carnival because it is cheaper. It is a vacation and we are not at work and we don't have to cook, clean, ect. Just go and have a great time.

[Muumuu]

The main thing that was different between my first and any of my others was the first cruise initial WOW factor as you enter the ship. Nothing can compare to the first one. I know each ship is different and beautiful. It's just that first one. I still remember it like it was yesterday. More than a kodak moment. It's in your mind and your heart.

[BlueC5Kitten]

Between my first and every other cruise, there was very little difference in expectations, but I was pleased EVERY time!

[soon to cruise]

I have to admit our first was better than our second. We were on the Conquest the first time for our 20th anniversary. It was bigger and newer than the Fantasy that we took this summer. Of coure we had the kids with us and we all shared one cabin. (it was either that or not go this summer) so that was a factor. The ship was smaller and older so we were comparing. BUT.....we still had a fantastic time. Oh, and it was only a 4 day and not a seven day and we only went to Cozumel instead of Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. So really it's comparing apples to oranges. I'll agree that there's nothing like the first time when it's all so brand new. You'll be able to enjoy your Dad's and his wife's first cruise experience through their eyes though. You'll have a great time.

[CWcruisers]

My first was my worst. I was on a ship that was running from the bankruptsy courts. I have had 35 other great cruises since then and I sail on many different lines, but I always enjoy the second time on a line because I feel I know the ropes.

 

Don't forget, now you get the invitation to the past guest party, and you can take your parents.

[emmysmommy]

I think that nothing compares to your first cruise since all the wonderful experiences are so new. However, I've loved all of our cruises and have not been disappointed yet.

[Payd]

We are 11 days always from boarding our second cruise. :D This one will be on the Freedom; our first was on the Valor. Ok - where should I set my expectations? I went on the first cruise looking to have a nice time, see some neat places and eat some good food. Well, we had all of that and so much more. It was by far the best trip we ever took. We loved the staff, the shows, the service, the casino, the dining room servers.... I could go on and on. Now, I am afraid that I have my expectations for my second trip to high. Anyone else ever feel this? Or for those who remember their second, how did it compare to the first?

 

One last caveat - we are taking my dad and his wife who have listened to us go on and on about how great cruising is - maybe I should have been less enthusiastic??

 

The second time is just as good, if not better. A little less traveller's anxiety.

 

Never be less enthusiastic.

[dec2007w3boys]

Great advice! Thanks to all. Sounds kind of like Disney World, nothing tops the first time wow factor (think walking up main street towards cinderella's castle with the music), but you can have a great time everytime!