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Interesting comments about soot falling on decks. I am a travel writer/podcaster and wrote a feature about the origin of the winged funnel on Carnival—for this very reason—and interviewed the designer on the podcast. Never realized this was a problem prior to that feature.

We sailed Hawaii to Alaska in May. The refurbishment made it like new. Almost perfect except bathroom is tiny—that can’t be fixed by a refurbishment—and the buffet is the worst ever experienced. Tiny, which I understand, but the food and presentation was uninspired. As a result we ate lunch in the MDR almost daily. I think all my MDR lunches ever before Spirit, can be counted on one hand. MDR and specialty restaurant food was excellent as well as a couple of other complimentary options.

The OP experience was their experience and I appreciate them sharing. In response to a commenter the cruises was not dreadful. I also was on it. I can’t link to it but I published a podcast about it today. FWIW, I gave it a grade of B

I booked 16-day Spirit after interviewing blogger and Alaska expert, Prof. Cruise (for a writing project). She had taken the same cruise, and brought her 13 y.o. son. He was content because he loves basketball and there is a court. I am sure she will interact with you directly re your questions. If you can’t reach her through the blog, I can put you together with her.

Yes, it was all of the above but especially the food. They go out of their way to please you. After ordering dessert, we were stuffed, and they brought out this tiered tray of chocolates and other stuff. We forced ourselves to eat some to show our appreciation. They did something similar in Eden which was also outstanding

I was on the Med cruise on Beyond right before this one and it was perfect—no staff shortages and the food was the best I’ve ever had at sea. Of course, it was not at capacity

On Beyond we ate at Le Voyage by Daniel Boulaud, Eden, Fine Cut Steakhouse, and Raw on Five. They were all excellent and I have ranked them in order. The meal at Le Vogage was the best I ever experienced

As others have said it is an easy process. Too bad it is not applicable to charter cruises (my next cruise is The Smooth Jazz Cruise on Millennium)

We were on Beyond right before this cruise and it was as close to a perfect experience that I have had on a cruise. I guess the difference is because of the much lower passenger count. Not related but internet was solid too.

I have read a lot on various forums about how food has declined in quality post lockdown. I somewhat agree based on my cruises. However I recently ate at LeVoyage on Beyond and it was the best meal I ever had at sea or on land.

Just booked Hawaii to Alaska Apr/May ‘23 on NCL Spirit. I think you mentioned adult-oriented in the thread—Spirit underwent a huge refurbishment in ‘20 to create specifically adult focused ship

Royal allows one alcohol package if the other adult buys the much cheaper refreshment package. No note needed, just have to call

Hello. Just wanted to share that I will be meeting Captain Bos for lunch tomorrow. Will be sharing a draft of his feature which includes your quote. As mentioned, I had previously read it to him over the phone. Thx

You sound like you don’t need further convincing but in addition to what others said I started everyday with a protein smoothie from Vitality Spa; a JR shake most days; latte everyday; assorted Virgin cocktails, etc

It is my 3rd nonfiction book about the joy we all share for cruising. Not HAL specific. Dont want to violate forum rules are advertising. you can google name in avatar. Thx

Hello. Resurrecting this 4 y.o. thread to say that I am doing a feature on Captain Bos for a book I am writing and was wondering if I could get your permission re using this photo? Also you mentioned having worked with him. Would love to get a quote. Sorry I don't see how to reach out privately. Thx...Paul

Hello. Odd receiving reply for a 4 y.o. post, I know! Interviewed Capt Bos today for book I’m writing. I had found above prior to the interview, and I decided right away that I planned to quote it in the book (with proper attribution to you of course). Have to say after interviewing him, above certainly rings true even if I have never sailed with him. By the way, I read the quote to him over the phone and I sensed he “lit up.” Thx…Paul