bd1958

This seems stupid as we've sailed HAL three times and always choose early seating, but I can't remember the early time... was it 5, 5:30, or 6? We sail on the Westerdam this Saturday, and the departure order suggests we will sail last of the bunch, probably around 5pm. Wondering if i'm going to miss the sail away.

Thanks,

Bruce

I often get the spa package and also book a massage when on a cruise. My problem is with the incessant upselling by the massage therapist. The inquiries about who i'm traveling with, the feigned interest in what I do, the promoting of the upgrades and crazy overpriced house products, and urging of tips all drive me crazy and distract from the relaxation and letting go that a massage should represent. I always tip so that's not the problem, and I feel for the workers who are under enormous pressure to drive up profits. But I want a massage free from the distraction.

i'm considering for my next cruise in march (already have massage booked) making a deal with the therapist: up front, before she lays a hand on me, hand her a tip and say she can let go of any upsell because i'm not buying. I don't want her to feel challenged but also want her to feel liberated from the upsell distraction as well.

What do people think? is this reasonable and respectful? Thoughts?

Thanks,

Bruce

We tend to eat in the MDR and enjoy it most of the time. I think all items can be hit or miss. I've had some terrible beef dinners before and I've had a pork dish that was out of this world. I try to give the kitchen some slack...they are serving something like 500 people at once and you can't have the same expectation that you would at a fine dining establishment. I agree that the soups tend to stand out and the desserts are lackluster. I've avoided the lobster because I didn't want to be disappointed (we're from new England) but maybe this time I'll give it a try!

I hear very mixed reviews of the canellato. I've always enjoyed it and look forward to returning. The tamarind is fantastic and the service is top notch. I find the pinnacle mixed....I DO have high expectation of them unlike the MDR and sometimes they disappoint. nonetheless I will always go there for one special dinner.

Bruce

Yes. we're also on the Westie March 5. It appears the Christian group will be getting off as we get on.

Let's hope for a great cruise! this has been an interesting and revealing thread, which could only happen on this kind of site. I hope it leads to better communication by the cruise lines, which all seem to engage in this kind of deception.

Bruce

This stinks, but the real joke might be on those poor Christians who sign up...check the prices. Nearly double the lower rates published by HAL. plus a 'conference fee.' Not to mention the fact that the group doesn't say that the ship is shared with non-conference guests (possibly heathens!). Someone is making a lot of money off that charter.

What everyone said...plus: priority embarkation and disembarkation at beginning and end of cruise plus ports where there is tender service. The wrap balcony makes dining on the deck favorable. we really enjoyed breakfast outdoors, whether at sea or port. The wrap cabin is somewhat smaller than the other Neptune suites and that's the tradeoff for the balcony. We thought it was worth it. It's a long walk to the Neptune lounge but it's worth it. Breakfast in Pinnacle is indeed nice as well.

Hope you enjoy the trip!

As stated by a previous response, it's a great escape. I've used it on several cruises and it's rarely crowded. the showers are nice and the whole thing is very relaxing and quiet. Even a suite room can feel crowded at times if you are used to having your space, and it's nice to have some extra space on the ship.

On the other hand, the most popular spots during sea days sell out early. I tend to book them in advance.

Bruce

We live in the Boston area, and took the Montreal to Boston trip in 2012 on board the Maasdam. We rented a car at home and drove the Montreal, leaving the rental there, jumping on the boat and ended the cruise at home.

Loved Quebec city and look forward to returning. PEI is great, most scenic to the east and north. Sydney was a bit of a bore. Halifax is a great walking city, the public garden a joy, an easy walk up the hill. Bar Harbor is wonderful if you get out of town and tour Acadia. We traveled in late May/June and would have preferred the warmer months. The aft pool was closed the entire trip. Yes, weather is sketchy but August is a very good bet.

We were offered an upgrade from balcony to Neptune (for the fee) and it was worth it.

Best wishes,

Bruce