World Cruise Question

[WISCruiser]

New to this ~Wonderfull~ board. :p Have been observing for about 3 months and decided to "take the plunge".

My question is: I've noticed on the HAL website that the 2006 WC is going to be a totally different itinerary from what this years WC is.

Do they rotate WC itineraries every year? As I would like to go on 'This Years" Itinerary, when I retire in 2007 (but don't know if it will be offered). After reading Grumpy and Slinkies WC thread, it sounds like the perfect WC itinerary that would suit my interests.

I also find it odd that on the WC, they don't offer cabin R501 (which is a Single Person cabin, no supplement!, I'll presume), but on the rest of the year Prinsendam cruises, they do offer it). I wonder why they do that?!? That Single Supp, has to be a "killer"

Any insites would be greatly appreciated!

[RuthC]

Hi, Alan. And a hearty welcome to you. Although I've never taken the World Cruise---nor any segments, either---I might be able to shed some light on it.

I wouldn't say the itineraries "rotate" so much as "vary". World events have an impact causing the cruise to stay away from some areas that would otherwise be visited. One recent year the cruise went east-bound :eek: , if you can believe it! Gaining an hour sleep 24 times is preferable to losing an hour 24 times as you circle the globe, IMNSHO!
The size of the ship can make a difference. The Prinsendam, being smaller, can visit ports that other ships (like the Rotterdam) can't.
There are many people who do the complete World Cruise repeatedly. By varying the itinerary---within the bounds of passages and weather restrictions---it's possible to bring something new to the repeaters.

These are just some of my quick thoughts on the subject. Perhaps others who have done the World, or segments, could comment further.

[bepsf]

About R501 - i'd be willing to bet either that someone has a standing reservation for that stateroom or that HAL pulls it from inventory to accomodate a lecturer or entertainer.

[DFD1]

I think RuthC gives you some good insight as to how the itinerary comes alive. I agree that Grumpy1 and Slinkie seem to be having a great time on their itinerary.

I had never heard of the WC sailing eastbound. I wonder if there was a particular reason since they usually seem to progress westbound.