BlerkOne

Doesn't sound like you were talking with Princess

Smokers are a dying breed and their numbers continue to diminish. They are not getting more real estate. With the exception of the casino, smoking has been eliminated indoors. The lounge has had other uses in the past including live entertainment and yes, even smoking, and is underutilized. The proximity to fine dining eliminates using for smoking. Other Conquest class ships utilize the lounge better, sometimes offering comedy. Perhaps when Liberty replaces Glory there will be other offerings. Or maybe Freedom will provide a clue.

As you mention, it is a waiting area for diners, most of whom don't want to reek of smoke or inhale any waiting for tasty food. But it is also used for a few other activities.

Charge extra starting with the 3rd entree like Carnival does. Problem somewhat mitigated.

Since the new menus were announced, there have been several changes. I'm still waiting for the return of the promised flat iron. Maybe by now it has made it? Anyway, much of the menu should remain the same, but I would expect some changes. How significant the changes are depend on if one of your favorites is impacted or makes a return.

I've enjoyed several of them. It doesn't mean they aren't sweet. Often a sugar substitute is used.

I don't think there are dedicated karaoke bars - they are multipurpose venues. It is impossible to eradicate the smell of smoke in a short period of time for a cigar venue to be used for anything else.

The cigar lounges on Carnival were underutilized and a complete waste of space.

Cove balconies

MSC top level gets a whopping 15% off.

try princess

Sometimes it just feels good to come home without wondering who moved the cheese

I dunno, but for the Sept 10 Miracle Alaska cruise it was all messed up.

If you are going to be parking a car, last month there was no parking available at the terminal for our cruise. They were handing people a map to somewhere and to take a shuttle back, although you could drop luggage off. Other than Queen Mary, not sure how close anything else would be for food.

and an ice rated hull. Even expedition ships can get stuck. There was one that ran aground in Greenland recently.

Layers are your friend. and windproof. a waterproof shell. Gloves. Forget cotton - when wet it provides no insulation. Wool and synthetics are preferred. A ski mask/balaclava is useful. You can get electronic, rechargeable hand warmers to keep in pockets for use. I didn't have special shoes, but did have heavy wool socks.

One way is to book Sail Away cabins which don't offer FAS.

All cruise lines sell illusions. But to belabor a little more - the FAS is "optional", but it is still built into the price many pay. You can get a better price.

I just use packing tape. Waterproof and very strong. The only way the tag is coming off is if a gorilla rips the handle off. Can't beat it.

^^^ This. So much is subjective. Don't pick or avoid a cruise line because of an opinion that is not yours. People can cherry pick what they like or dislike and paint a biased picture.

With Princess, you also get bottled water, room service, unlimited internet, and more. I do like that on Princess you can get edible food without having to go to a specialty restaurant.

or any other gratuity. Free at Sea is anything but. and NCL Air has earned its bad reputation.

If available, it would be under specialty dining. If sold out, it would still show up.

I think a lot comes down to the attitude of the passengers. Carnival passengers don't worry about other cruise lines. Don't be a Debbie.