British Isles - Lots of ?'s - New to SS

[theresef]

Hi All,

New poster/lurker for the SS forums:) Hubby and I are looking to go to the British Isles next year and were intrigued by the itinerary for the May 2010 sailings on the PAII.

 

We have sailed, Celebrity/Princess/Hal/Carnival and a smaller boat (600 PX) years ago.

 

We have never done an expedition or a boat of this size. Curious as to how the ports work. Zodiac and land tours of the various locales? How about in the larger venues like Edinborough?

 

We usually have a suite or balcony for our prior sailings - this may be difficult for the expedition sailing - what are your thoughts for those that have traveled similarly - did you feel a part of the "expereince" was lost or was the whole sailing so vastly different from the mass market that it did not matter?

 

Read with interest the children thread:) We have a few - although now in the 16-30 range - in fact all are going on a cruise with us this month to Alaska on Princess - but we are anxious to have a child free holiday:)

 

Assume given this is a luxury cruise - unlike the ones we have been on before - the food will be above what we have expereinced previously - are there other differences along these lines?

 

We typically entertain oursleves on our cruises - rarely attending shows, usually hanging out with a glasss of wine on the balcony. Occasionally utilize the casino or attend a venue with live classical performances. Short of that we tend to do our own thing in ports - more expedition like" types of activities and enjoy just sailing and the interesting places we visit.

 

SO think we would be okay on a smaller ship - any tips or gotcha's for those new to luxury cruises and smaller ships in general you could outline?

 

Thanks for any and all information. Very little to be found on the PAII, evne less on the British Islkes Itinerary - so any info would be most appreciated.

 

Thanks!

Therese