Sthrngary

2 hours ago, Mommapadraig said:

Sorry for the hijack on the lounger question. I too would like two on our cruise.Good morning Gary. I have followed you on your NCL haven post from its inception I believe. I avidly read it in preparation for our first Haven cruise. We too loved the NCL haven concept and cruised it whenever we could afford it. Then in May we ended up in the MSC Yacht club on the seashore. We loved it. The service we received far exceeded any previous experience on NCL including being guests in the 3 bedroom owners suite due to kindness of friends. Perhaps it was the staff. The fact that the chef came out into the dining room during every dinner and talked to each guest to find out what they liked or what they could do better. My butler seeing me enjoying a Dos Equis and when I returned to the cabin finding 3 of the beers in the fridge. The inclusion of water and Wi-Fi and the fridge contents in the price….we cancelled our pending NCL cruises with the plan to book again in the MSC yacht club with our travel friends. Then he saw the Explora Journey. We are now booked on the Explora ll in January. I doubt we will go back to NCL. I feel that they have outpriced themselves compared to what is being offered by the competition for much less cost. Wrapping this up I wanted to thank you for your posts in the past. Cruise on!

@Mommapadraig So nice to hear from you.  Thank you for acknowledging the topics I wrote about in the past specifically on the NCL Haven. I also want to thank you for giving me a reason to break away from my morning which has become really stressful.  I needed a break and writing about cruises will give me that break.  Here goes.

Some time ago, right after covid, I wanted to choose a brand outside of the NCL Haven that was a 100% luxury cruise.  I wanted to take a "Luxury Cruise Test Drive".  I wanted a ship that everyone when they came out of their stateroom, were treated exactly the same.  I choose Crystal Cruises at the time.

One of the things I started to be uncomfortable with in the Haven was the looks, comments from guest that were not in the Haven.  I also felt the treatment when you leave the Haven was significantly downgraded from when you were in the Haven.  So your cruise did not have a balanced of personalized service. Luxury is all about personalized service from soup to nuts more then any other aspect of a cruise. This opened me up to different brands.  It also opened me up to experimenting with a "Luxury" brand. My Crystal experience although not ideal, showed me what I wanted to see and feel.  I got the difference immediately, and I liked it.

Fast forward, before I choose another brand, I research the heck out of it.  Part of that is doing a price, amenity, ship, and perk comparison.  What most folks don't quite get is the add-on costs you have to pay when you use a Mainstream Cruise company even in the Haven.  Things like waters, specialty coffees, in-suite mini-fridge items that have a cost, gratuities, access to the thermal spa, and the list goes on.  If those item are included, it makes the higher cost per day equal to OR less then those other brands VIP sections.  I did that with my upcoming cruise in February 2025 on Explora 1.  My fare on Explora was equal to or less then the Haven and a real problem was the Haven only has King Sized Beds and I needed two twins.  I know Explora is a new brand but they are in my opinion trying very hard to provide to every guest on their ships, a "Haven On Steroids" experience.  So everything we liked about the Haven and Yacht Club and lots more for the same or less daily cost considering everything. 

My Haven Threat you are referring to started in 2019, was then and now one of the most read and commented OP-ED on all of CruiseCritic.com  I rewrote it in 2022 to revise the things that changed.  The revised OP-ED is even more popular then the original.  It would be safe to say that I was an unofficial advocate of the NCL Haven Brand.  Yet, here I am with my next cruise on Explora and the cruise after that on Oceania.  I am still an advocate for the NCL Haven and the MSC Yacht Club, however my wants, needs and quest to enhance my future cruising experience plus quite frankly the companies offering a ship-within-a-ship concept ever increasing cost, make evaluating and selecting other brand especially in the luxury category simply a good business decision. It is clear, we both seem to feel the same way.  

Hope that all makes sense.  Thank you for allowing me to write my thoughts to your post.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

If you don't like my long wordy post that seem like I am preaching or come across like I am some sort of cruise expert or influencer, don't read this one.  It is long, opinionated and some might consider it condescending. You have been forewarned. 

Move forward at your own risk. 

This post is NOT directed at the author who I consider to be an trusted and respected member of this community.  It is not directed to any one contributor. It is to the topic of issues with a specific cruise brands decisions. I also don't mean to hijack this topic.

Goal of my future Cruising:  "Elevate my cruising experience based my my past experiences."

Topic of this Tread: "Simply More pricing and quality of excursions are not going in the right direction"

Reality of ALL Cruise Brands: Oceania Cruises is NOT perfect cruise brand.  It is like every other cruise brand, not perfect.  However, we as consumers have choices, that is our power. Our money, our choice. With chooses, brands differentiate themselves from their competition some way.  "We are different because of....". The Brand Marketing Department makes claims to attract new clients that quite frankly don't pay off. The Marketing Departments of ALL brands have never understood the notion of "Under Promise and Over Deliver". The same department changes how things work and say it is because the clients asked for it. The notion of Simply More is a great example of this. Human nature is we HATE change even good change.  We like things the way they were. 

All Cruise Lines Do The Same Thing: This is NOT an Oceania Cruises issue.  This is an industry issue.  I personally started to cruise on Oceania to elevate my cruising experience as was my stated goal above.  My experience was it did just that. Was it perfect, no it was not. Did the good out weigh the bad, YES.  If it did not, I personally would not have booked another cruise for 2025.  But let us all remember. My and others evaluations was NOT based on 20 cruises on Oceania.  It was based on our past experiences compared to Oceania. My past experience was the NCL Haven, Celebrity Retreat, MSC Yacht Club, Crystal Cruises before being re-purchased. Past experience creates perspective which is everything to my evaluation of my future bookings.  I don't think I am alone on this approach. 

Being an Advocate Does NOT Mean Being Exclusive to a Brand: When I got married 44 years ago, my commitment was until death do you part. Product and service done fall under that commitment. I was/am a major advocate to the "Ship-Within-A-Ship" notion created by NCL for its Haven Product.  Yet, I went on Oceania Cruise.  I AM a fan of Oceania Cruises yet my very next cruise is on "Explora Journey".  Why? Because each of us has the obligation to ourselves and our family's to know the great, good, bad and ugly about the vacation/brand we choose.  No one brand is perfect.  Each do things differently.  Changes happen and when they do, your evaluation of your next cruise needs to be considered based on that change. 

The Simply More Program: I don't like the Simply More Program but I do understand it.  I don't like Cruise Brand excursions regardless of the brand including if all excursions are included and would prefer they don't offer them at all. My reasons don't matter, just my likes and dislikes realizing everyone is different.  I don't like the Simply More Drink program being just Wine/Beer at lunch and dinners so I upgrade to the Unlimited Plan.  Now I feel inconvenienced having to show my stateroom card at every bar instead of ordering a drink, because everyone has the different packages. I don't think Oceania has the best food at sea or what ever the correct motto is.  The old Crystal was much more to my liking.  This matters because I know what the deal is before I purchase a cruise. So when I have to provide my card, not have a great lobster tail at the buffet, have tasteless cookies, miss Illy Coffee Beans at the Barista or need to have a strategy to use brand excursions that are not really to my liking; I knew the deal before I went on the ship.  I choose it anyway, yet I had a choice. 

Increased Prices and Decreased Quality: The prices are going up.  The cost of doing business is going up.  All the cruise lines have huge loans that need to be paid due to Covid.  The quality of some items that before were GREAT have gone down.  Those are the facts, if it does not suite you, choose another brand or don't cruise at all.  Or, simply pick and choose the brand that is right for your next cruise knowing the facts from doing so simply research.  

Conclusion: I warned you I was going to write a book.  You read on anyway.  If any of have a issues with any cruise brand, a disappointment with any aspect of their product, by all means share it.  If you care about the brand, share it with them especially so they know how their client base works.  Survey's are worthless, well written letters with the intent of helping the brand and your next experience on the brand is much more productive. Highlight issue so the can be fixed and tell the people who actually can fix them. 

"Cruise well and enjoy every moment."

2 hours ago, chill6x6 said:

When is your cruise Gary?

@chill6x6 February 14 - 21, 2025, Explora 1

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

4 minutes ago, chill6x6 said:

We have never really been "loyal" to any particular cruise line.  We alway go with what works best with the time I can get off for vacation and try not to duplicate itineraries.  I don't like standing in lines and I like to have sodas/water/beer/etc in my fridge in our cabin as I would at home without having to "work" the system.  Last requirement is two lounge chairs on our balcony with a table and two table chairs.  Nothing different than I have at home. Sounds simple! Not so on a cruise ship! LOL

 

So to get all that(not really that much, IMO) we've been mostly in HAL Pinnacle suites, Royal Star Class, and NCL Haven(working the system for drinks and careful to book suites with loungers/tables). Star Class prices have increased to a point that is ridiculous. Pinnacles suites don't really have the service you pay for, and with NCL one has to really purchase "Free at Sea Plus" to include WATER in ones drink package! LOL! Water!  So this lead us to either Virgin Mega Rock Star OR right HERE with Explora.

 

Deciding between Virgin and Explora took me several days(weeks?/Months?) to decide.  As with any decision you really CAN'T get everything one wants but you can come pretty close. Both are really lacking a little with the bathroom area. Two sinks should be standard with an over $10,000 suite.  So equal here.  Suite storage...It looks as if Explora is definitely a step up here. Virgin looks to have better entertainment.  Explora has so many pool areas, NICE! So it came down to itinerary as it does many times. I didn't want to go to San Juan three times in a row no matter how much I like it! So we took the 8-day Cozumel. Belize City(haven't been here in a while), Cayman Brac(never been), and Key West(love Key West!) itinerary.

 

Really looking forward to this cruise! Next up is HAL Rotterdam though which should prove to be a nice cruise!

@chill6x6 Chuck, well done.  Love the evaluation you did.  All cruise lines are adjusting all aspects of their offering.  The lack of cruising and loans due to covid will do that to a company.  This is happening to all main stream cruise brands. Whether MSC, NCL, Celebrity, and the list goes on.  This is even more true with the "Ship-in-a-Ship" or upper suite areas.  I could write a book why I think this is happening but who am I anyway.  Just opinions.  The fact is with many brands, prices have goon up, and cost saving measure are clearly apparent.  So Pay me more, for less concept.  I don't care that the brands took a hit from covid.  I evaluate what is really provided and compare to other brands even new brands. 

Loyalty to brands.  A very long time ago, when I first did a Haven suite followed by a Retreat suite I LOVED the concept.  They solved many of my issues I was having on Food, drinks, and personalized service.  I loved it so much I became a cheer leader for the concept.  When the prices rose, I realized, I had to look at the pros and cons of other brands especially brands that included items that the Main Stream Offerings were charging for.  This lead to starting to list, what you got vs. what you did not get from each brand.  Took a very long time but worth the study.  

The conclusion was in every case, as you indicated, there was some benefit and some loss of benefit.  It was never a clear path.  The one thing was, as much as I love the Ship-in-a-Ship concept for my way of cruising, it has to make a good business decision for me. When the price reach its current levels, it was clear, Luxury Cruising with all that is provided could actually be the "NEW" value approach to cruising for my wants and needs.  That is why in the past I cruised Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises and now Explora Journey.  Would I consider Haven or Retreat or Yacht Club; sure but not at current investments.  

For me, once I clearly knew what was and was not provided in detail, it made it easy to make a future business decision.  The result, I booked a cruise on a brand I never cruised before, Exlplora Journey.  I booked another cruise with a brand I cruised once, Oceania Cruises.  I knew the pros and cons and feel very comfortable I made the right decision.  Actual results with be the true test and I promise I will write in great details my honest and balanced experiences. Bravo to your post again.  Well done.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

2 hours ago, chill6x6 said:

 

Hey,

 

I just wanted you to know that your info was so helpful, I just booked it! I let go a NCL AF PH for this!

 

Any other pointers you'd care to share?

 

Thank you!

@chill6x6 Something tells me you made the Right Choice.  I also enjoy NCL, especially the AF PH in the Haven.  I am also sold on this new Luxury brand for many reasons.  So happy we who love cruising have so many choices.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, MEFIowa said:

AND now it makes it easier to find you onboard. On our cruise on Riveria late last year in the Med I think you were the 4th or 5th person I'd walked up to asking, "Are you, by chance, the Southern Gary who posts on Cruise Critic?" [Guess I should've known you be hanging out at the pool bar? And it was Gina who said, "Maybe that's him? Go ask. I was getting frustrated by the weird looks I was getting from those I had asked before.] 

@MEFIowa LMAO, you are missing the BEST part of the story.  Yes, we were with another couple.  Yes, if anyone wants to find me, I am at a bar.  Yes, the only bar I could find was the pool bar.  You went up to my friend traveling with me, who actually looks like the image I used to use and said, "Are you SthrnGary?" He laughed and said no because you were the forth person to ask him.  He really looks like the old picture.  I said, "Who is SthrnGary and is he a good guy?"  You said yes, he writes a lot on CruiseCritic.com.  I said, "I am SthrnGary!"  

That meeting made my trip.  My friend was so sick of being called SthrnGary.  He thought it was crazy how many folks knew who I was.  The same thing happened at the Martini Bar with a new friend by the name of Bubba.  Bubba, if you are reading this, I miss you. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

17 minutes ago, momofmab said:

One other question - since the minibar is not complimentary as it is in the Yacht Club, does NCL allow passengers to bring soda or water to keep in the cabins?  I recall doing that for one cruise back in the day but can't recall if it was NCL or RCCL.

I don't know.  That is a question for NCL.  What I always do is have the butler take every single item out of the mini-fridge day one. They now usually put it up in a closet rather then take it out of the cabin.  This keeps the mini-fridge open for other things.  Bringing soda's on board I have no clue. 

Ask NCL and or your Travel Advisor about the Free At Sea PLUS program.  You might gain value from that.  

I highly Oceania Cruises for the Mediterranean.  I did a comparison of Oceania, Crystal Cruises and Exploria on my Caribbean Cruise.  900 to 1200 guests with a crew ratio of 1.25/1. Oceania was the value. I would consider those three choices when considering a Mediterranean cruise.  Smaller ships to get into smaller ports is the way to go for that.  Happy to answer any questions but would prefer to focus on all things Haven and NCL on this thread.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

In the OT category, which has a balcony of 75 sf, consider a Ocean Grand Terrace Suite which has 115 sf.  Cost more but accomplishes your need. Or go to Penthouse Level which is a significant price hike.  

I fully understand why you want that request.  Smart to think about it now.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

33 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-Morning coffee (very important!): I know there are machines in the room - I have one at home and they are noisy. Where else (besides Starbucks) can I get a morning cappuccino?  The Haven lounge?  I know I can always ask my butler to bring, but I like to be self-sufficient.

@momofmab Hello.  I am the author of this stream.  I will do my best to answer some of your questions.  At the end, I will comment on the other lines you brought up because I know them both.  On Coffee.  Transparency, I have NOT been on the Epic but have been on her sister ships.  Usually, in the Haven Observation Deck is a GREAT High End Coffee Machine that serves everything from drip to specially coffees.  Also have light breakfasts and snacks.  Usually empty in the morning. 

39 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-Is it necessary to make reservations for the Haven restaurant, or just drop in?  What is the general dress code for dinner?

The Haven Restaurant does not take reservations but my experience is rare to wait for a table. The dress code is Country Club casual but mostly not enforced.  Debated on a daily basis with no clear resolution. 

41 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-Does NCL have a move-up or bidding process for suites?  (

They do a Biding process.  Depends on the sailing and availability to win.  I have NEVER won. 

42 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-I'm reading 120 days out for making specialty dining reservations. Is that still the case?

For Haven it is 130 days out, you can do them from you online account.

43 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-On Epic, are entertainment reservations required for Haven guests? 

For the big shows yes and no.  Yes officially, but I have never been turned down.  There is a Haven Section reserved up until 15 minutes before the big shows. 

44 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-If we order room service, is that always done through the Butler?

Yes, complementary and important when the Haven Restaurant is open to ask the butler to get the food from there.  Much better food but they only make what is on the Haven Menu. 

46 minutes ago, momofmab said:

-Great Stirrup Cay - what is there now?  Is it just a beach?  Is there a Haven-only area there?

No Haven private area, very nice private island, beach-pools and bars.  

47 minutes ago, momofmab said:

My husband and I thought about moving on to the luxury lines (Oceania, Explora Journey)

I highly recommend trying Luxury Brands.  The difference is once you leave your stateroom on a luxury brand, everyone is treated the same.  More things are free across the board like soft drinks in your stateroom mini bar and thermal spas.  What you miss is go cart tracks, water slides, and huge production shows.  The best approach for me is to only go Luxury in Europe/Asia.  Port intensive and the ship is focused on relation not excitement.  Oceania I found to be GREAT for a recent Mediterranean 10 day cruise.  Explora Journey I have booked with my older sister for February of 2025 for a 7 day Caribbean because of the quiet ship, up tick in food, larger staterooms and personalized service for everyone not just Haven guest.  

You can't go wrong with Haven or any of your other choices.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

12 minutes ago, ORV said:

Is that your college graduation picture?

@ORV Ok, so embarrass me.  Call me out on social media.  Make me feel old.  Thanks a lot.  All true though.  That picture is me, a few (maybe a few more then a few) years ago.  But it is me.  

All kidding aside.  I want everyone on CruiseCritic.com whether on this Oceania Cruise Board, or NCL, Crystal Cruise or Explora Journey Cruises how much it means to me to be aloud to talk about a subject that makes me so happy, CRUISING.  We all work hard, I feel so fortunate to still be here to enjoy this last quarter of my life on a cruise with all of YOU.  

"Cruise well, never show your current old wrinkly picture and enjoy every moment."

8 minutes ago, FetaCheese said:

@Sthrngary

 

New Photo ?  I liked your Avatar -- it allowed me to imagine what you looked like !

 

I had viewed your comparison Xcel sheet, and also noticed your names and booking #.  Now deleted.

 

I would also like to experience Explora Journeys, at the right price point.  I recently watched a Travel Agency presentation, live from the Explora Journey ship.  Looks and sounds like you will enjoy your cruise with them.  They also include gratuities in the fare.

@FetaCheese on the picture.  It was suggested to me by someone I really admire to lose the Avatar.  It made me look mean and angry. It might make people not even consider read what I wrote.  Yet my posts were not so.  I thought about it and said, ok, makes sense to me. So, that is really me.

On the Explora Journey, I don't want to go into to much detail on an Oceania Blog.  It would make me question the post since it was not the brand on that specific blog.  I will say, the value on that spreadsheet was Oceania, not Crystal of Explora.  My issue was different Embarkment and dis-embarkment locations. Also, I always like to experience new brands in the Luxury segment. Not so much for me but for my sister who is joining me, round trip to Miami was better.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Just now, Daniel A said:

@Sthrngary Since that info is already out there, can you rebook the same sailing, so you get a different booking number?  Just a thought.  

@Daniel A Agreed and already in the process.  What is funny.  This is just one more sign I am getting older.  I was talking to my wife this morning about forgetting some details I used to NEVER forget.  When we get older, we have knowledge, experience and maturity.  Just our minds and bodies simply don't want to cooperate.  LOL.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

5 minutes ago, the mice said:

@SthrngaryYou are certainly detailed, but maybe you didn't want to include your booking # and full names.   Just sayin'....

@the mice I feel like a fool.  I read what happened to others.  I am so upset with myself.  Thank you. 

MODERATOR: CAN YOU HELP ME DELETE THE EXCEL.  i WILL ADJUST IT AND REPOST. 

On 5/28/2024 at 6:59 PM, drpclarke said:

...and this is my first rodeo with Explora.

 

Explora doesn't seem to offer additional trainings for TAs, so I'm just popping on these boards, visiting their websites, and trying to understand all things Explora. While I am learning about it, the pricing is just baffling to me.

 

For example - the cruise they are looking at...(April 2025, Explora 2) ...the "Unique Escapes" rate (this looks like a short term promo) starts at $5285 per person. The "Early Booking" rate starts at $6695 per person. It goes on to say that the "early booking" rate is a great deal on the "journey" fare.

 

Huh? Journey fare? Is the unique escape not a journey fare?
 

I just don't know all of this Explora terminology...can anyone here help?

Thanks!

Rachel

@drpclarke Hello.  First I read your first post.  I then read everyone else's comments. I would like to complement you for taking the time to educate yourself even though you knew you would get some heat for being a travel agent.  That takes guts.  

On to you questions.  I drill down deep as a client and guest before I book a new brand.  The level I drill down is much more then most yet less then some. For me it is kind of sport to know as much as I can know.  This and other brand boards are GREAT.  Still, take everything with a grain of salt as you should take me.  I just booked a OT-2, for a 7 day Caribbean itinerary, comparing Oceania, Crystal and Explora Journey.  I have cruised Oceania Cruise and loved it, I have also cruised Crystal Cruises before they were purchased.  I enjoy it very much but at the time there were some issues that have seemed to be resolved.  

I was also confused by the two different prices given.  That was my first education.  You got great advice here, the "Unique Escapes" is the way to go if you are booking any of the OT's.  My next quest for knowledge was what was the difference between OT.  Obviously like all cruise brands it was locations, except for the most expensive OT which had a larger deck.  While I was on the phone with the Explora consultant, he brought to my attention the other promotion which also was mentions above called Penthouse Dreams.  It seems if you want a upgrade to a Penthouse, book the most expensive OT (larger deck mentioned above) NOT on the special "Unique Escapes" sale, on the "Early Booking or Normal Fare" and get the upgrade. 

This lead me to drill down on the differences between categories. OT, Penthouse and the upper suites. Seems simple and it was.  So simply I was surprise.  Basically, it is simply the size of the stateroom and which residences, they come with butlers.  My bottom line was, unlike other brands, the amenities and benefits were so very close from the least to most expensive stateroom.  I at first did not believe it but every thing I learned seemed to lead to the same place.  I usually get a bigger suite with a butler but the investment different simply for me (not everyone) was not there. I also wanted to separate beds because I was going with my older sister and we were sharing a cabin.  I learned, OT-1 did not have cabins where the beds separated, OT-2 & OT-3 did.  So I took an OT-2.  That cabin had a bath tub shower and had a door for a connecting cabin.  A very wise contributor said, look closing at the deck plans and most every question about what each cabin has is answer.  GREAT ADVICE.

I know this is a long post but I think I am answering your questions.  Here are other things I liked:

No Main Dining Room and all Specialty Restaurants are included except for a special 7 course meal at 190 euro's with another 75 euro's for the wine pairing.  Mix reviews on this special extra cost meal. Those that liked it LOVED it, those that did not like it HATED it.  Like for example Oceania the specialty restaurants that took reservations the first one was guaranteed and the next ones were space available. Nice to know information for strategy. I also learned the buffet is not a buffet.  You can see the food, much of which is made fresh for you and the chef plates if for you behind glass.  I loved this concept. 

Everyone has the same Internet and drink program. Neither has an upgrade option except to purchase a high dollar Wine or Spirit.  Also, unlike Oceania that you have to show your card to get a drink because of all the different drink plans, no card needed on Explora. Some complaints on quality of wines but i here that on every board.  I drink straight vodka on ice so it did not effect me. Each stateroom has a bottle of champagne but the brand lowered the standard for the OT's but it is still champagne.  I am used to horrible sparkling wine from other ships and give to a honeymoon couple who love getting that extra bottle. 

I am going to give you an Excel Comparison of Explora, Crystal and Oceania below.  Look to the bottom of the Excel for where I listed the different amenities and benefits.  That should help.  I hope this was helpful.  Never stop asking question.  Hope this helped.

I loved the crew to guest ratio of 1.25/1.  Yet the more you read, the more you can see this brand is finding their sea legs a bit.  My cruise is February of 2025 so my hope is they have their total act together by then.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

PS: I will post the comparison later.  I have to make a correction

On topic and off topic.  In my career, I worked with Toyota Motor Sales National Headquarters.  That was one of many clients.  Toyota the brand has very rich history and culture.  That history goes into how they manufacture all of their vehicles.  One thing they say and execute better then most is their cost cutting approach.  They reduce cost but NEVER reduce quality.  It is a fine line and just takes some very careful thought before they do something.  Kind of like "measure twice cut ones".  Other companies simply cut costs which leads to guest reduction of satisfaction. 

I just read a complaint about Oceania on another Social Media site.  My wife belongs to that sight and I don't.  I deleted all my social media with the exception of YouTube and Cruise Critic years ago.  So I just read what the guests write. One such guest was referring to the article on "Cruise News" showing NCL and its brands were focusing on cutting cost.  This was followed with what this guest felt was a reduction in quality of the dining and food onboard the Oceania Marina.  The comments were both supported and challenged by other guests.  Knowing that food and dining is relative to the guest.  This guest was angry that the person in charge of that blog deleted their post. 

I personally like balanced, reviews that give all sides.  Whether you are new to a brand, traveled them once or 20 times, it gives you sense of what to avoid or have a lowered expectation. When it is not helpful is when it is the SAME guest that seems to always complain, yet still cruises the brand.  Those people, I simply don't understand. We should embrace all opinions as long as the contributor is just someone who hates every thing, all the time.

I hope Oceania will embrace cost cutting in the way Toyota did.  That is my hope. Just my two sense.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

14 hours ago, uktog said:

I should have added our first Explora experience was surrounded by influencers and people on freebies

@uktog I must be so naive.  My adult daughter tells me that all the time. I had no idea the Influencers and other folks get free "Anything".  Yet I watch hundreds of YouTube videos.  I love TikTok but usually for the French Bull Dog video and guys fixing Cow feet.  Not kidding here and kind of ashamed of myself.

To me, the key to great information on any product especially a luxury product is what the folks that pay full price think after the fact. If the guest does not have skin in the game, how can they shot us all straight?  Don't get me wrong, Any Cruise Brand That Wants To Give Me a Free Cruise, I am easy to find.  I also know a lot of folks that will take free cruises also.

The above two paragraphs is my off the wall, sense of humor.  Yet there is some truth to it.  The key to me about an learning about a new brand is learning the good, bad and ugly.  Example, one brand I cruise has lobster tails on the grill in their buffet.  The lobster is horrible, over cooked and tough to eat. Enough folks have said so.  My strategy, avoid the Lobster Tails at that grill. Problem solved.  What if no information was provided, what if the truth was not told,  and the so called facts were based on gaining a free experience. 

Just a thought to consider this Wednesday Morning. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

If you feel you have been wronged, write a letter that clearly outlines your reasoning and sent to the four top executives of the cruise brand via, certified mail.  Send the same letter every week until someone gets back with you.  Social Media is not the place to get results, Travel agents will never focus the amount of attention, a client will.  To the client it is a matter of principle. The travel agent has limited time. 

Sorry, it is SO important to simply fight your own fight with those that can do something about it. That would be dealing direct with the brand.  All we can do here on Social Media is make you feel better that you were wronged.  That and a dime will not by you a cup of coffee.  As you can see, I am feisty tonight.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

12 minutes ago, PaulMCO said:

Hello Gary - nice to see you trying another cruise line....

@PaulMCO long time since we visited last.  This trip is for my sister and me.  I looked at Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Explora Journey.  I personally wanted to do Crystal again but the itinerary led to bad flights.  I also wanted to try something new. Oceania was also an option and the best value however it was a 10 day cruise.  I love my sister but being with her for 7 days is a stretch.  I am also on an Oceania cruise (Vista) for ten days in the Mediterranean Oct 2025 so I figure, try something new. 

I read your entire list and appreciate the time you took to list them.  It is clear you remember all the many questions I asked prior to cruising on Crystal.  You nailed every question.  Thank you.

Paul, as you know, I usually do a deep dive into details.  My approach is a bit different here.  I think it has to do with my getting a bit older and not needing the Mega Ships anymore.  The other consideration that we all make is the person that is joining us.  My (Older) sister who has never ever cruised requested quiet places, could care less about the food, may not consider getting off the ship, does not drink a lot and thought having a balcony was PERFECT.  Now once she is on the ship, some of that may change because she knows not what she will receive. In my minds eye I said, "OK, let's give Explora Journey a try".  Like chicken soup, it can't hurt. 

Again, your list is point on, very helpful and appreciated.  Thanks for the effort. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

7 hours ago, the mice said:

@Sthrngary  Glad to be of help. I've read your posts and have found them helpful.

 

Good luck with getting Delta One Business award seats.  Personally, I have found Delta's award redemptions to be outrageous.  You might want to look at all your options for award flights before you go with Delta.  You might try posting on the  Cruise Air forum with flight itinerary details to get some advice.  Some savvy flyers there.  

 

 

 

@the mice Thank you for your advice.  I am a 5 million Miler on Delta lifetime which gives my a lifetime Diamond Status.  In a nutshell, I have four Global Upgrades as a gift from Delta every year.  I just used the four upgrades to go to Europe with my Adult Daughter last month.  I have four more upgrades for my next year cruise with my wife. If you use your Delta Points to gain a Coach Premium seat, you can still use your upgrades for Delta One Business Class.  That is the strategy.  I combine my Delta Miles and my American Express Points to get exactly the amount I need. If not for my status and benefits with Delta, I would not approach the air travel that way.  

A side note.  I always wanted to take Air France Business Class in their new Air France cabin.  I had the opportunity to do so with my daughter coming from Paris to Atlanta.  I asked my daughter her thoughts and here is what she said.  "If I had not traveled for my first Business Class Flight in the new Delta Suites, I would have said Air France Business class is great.  After Delta, Air France does not compare."  I unfortunately agree with her.  Might have been an off day for the crew of Air France.  Lesson learned. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

4 hours ago, daydreamer62 said:

We fly out in less than 24 hours. From New Zealand there is no quick way to get to Europe. I have tried multiple routes , via the US , via Singapore and via the middle East. To me via the middle East was the least painful. It's 17 hours and 5 minutes from Auckland to Dubai. That's just a very long stretch no matter what way you look at it but Emirates flies A380s on that route which to me seem less cramped than the alternative Boeing 777. From there is 6.5 hours this time to Venice. We have a 3.5 hour layover. I find it's better to bite the bullet and do it all in one hit.  No matter what way you look at it, any flight over about 9 hours is painful. If you fly from here to Singapore it's 12 hours.. Then you have another 12+ hour flight ahead of you. It's about the same if you stop in LAX. Once that long leg to Dubai (or Doha if flying Qatar airways) the second leg seems almost a breeze!. We don't fly premium economy or business mainly because we would prefer more trips. Premium economy was almost 3x the price of economy when we booked . So it's a matter of suck it up and deal with it. The end result is worth the pain. 

I have been asked to organise a meet and greet for more than 60 other passengers. I should have asked here first but my Oceania rep said it couldn't be organised till we were onboard. I've now emailed someone who apparently can help organise it before. It may well be too late! . 

I'll also supposed to organise a get together in Trieste for a smaller group so I did some research with Google maps Street view and found a bar/restaurant that looks like a good place for Apero , called The Pier (near the cruise port )  .I hope I can find it in reality!!

So.. after some false starts and one cancelled cruise with a pretty decent replacement we are nearly on our way. 

@daydreamer62 That is quite the trip.  However, you see the light at the end of the tunnel.  I fully understand your strategy on flights and having more trips.  You are to kind to organize a M&G.  All of this will work out.  Please give us all a update.  Drink lots of water on the flight.  Take lots of walks and bring a neck pillow.  That part of your trip you won't even remember once you step on board a lovely ship.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

On 5/9/2024 at 2:18 PM, the mice said:

AMEX Platinum is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a bunch of new offers, including several travel related.  Just announced this one for Oceania:

Get 10 additional Membership Rewards® points for each dollar spent on qualifying cruise reservations made using your enrolled eligible Card online at oceaniacruises.com by calling 855-623-2642, via Amex Travel or through an Oceania Cruises travel advisor by 7/8/2024. Limit of 40,000 Membership Rewards points.

 

So it maxes out at $4000 spend.  Be sure to read the terms regarding what doesn't count.   If you have an AU on your card, they might have it as well (mine did).

 

Certainly a nice additional bonus to the one AMEX offered in March.  

@the mice Thank you so much. A few days ago, I read your post, went to my AMX home page and say the Oceania Promo.  I clicked it, called my Travel Agent and paid $4,000.00 on my upcoming October 2025 cruise.  

Why your advice was so important and helpful to me.  I received the 40,000 point today. I need as many AMX points as possible so I can transfer them over to my Delta Airlines account in November of this year.  That is when I have to get the flights for my 2025 cruise.  I want those flights to be Delta One Business Class.  The 40,000 point has put me over the edge. Thank you again.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Interesting question and I just booked with two separate beds.  I was told, I had to book a OT-2 or OT-3.  I booked an OT-2 and it has a adjoining cabin.  I have no issue with that so that is information.  My cabin is 7085 on the Explora I

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

16 hours ago, Waltershipman said:

Great choice Gary I look forward to seeing you on board as we are booked for the 8 night sailing as well

 Got off Oceania Vista in February and cruised EJ last October.  

 

Looking forward to sailing on EJ again. It was splendid 

 

Look forward to connecting with you both before and on board

 

All the best

 

David 

@Waltershipman David, I spoke to soon.  My sister changed the departure date to February 14-21, 2025.  Sorry, She is making me crazy.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Update on my Quest:

I promise the folks here on the Explora Journey, CruiseCritic.com blog, I will not post daily as I have done so many times in the past.  For those that have read my posts, they will thank me for that.  But I wanted to give a follow up on my decision to consider Explora Journey Cruises.

Questions:  I wrote 19 question out and called the Explora Journey Cruise phone number.  The first time I called, I gave my name and phone number per the recordings request for a follow up call.  After two days, no one called me back so I called again. Within just a few minutes, a gentlemen answered the call.  He answered each and every question I had.  Professional, easy to understand and no spinning the answers.  

American Express Platinum Cruise Perks:  One question was about the American Express Platinum Cruise Perks.  It seems that they became available that very day.  I hope that helps some folks on this blog.  You receive the OBC from AMX and can still use the "Unique Escapes" sales promotion. 

Twin Beds: I am going on this cruise with my older sister.  I needed two twin beds that were separated.  I was told, OT-1 did not have twin beds but OT-2 and OT-3 did.  Just an FYI for some one who this matters too. 

Excel Comparison of Cruise Brands: I do comparisons on expensive products all the time.  It is a throw back to my career prior to retirement.  I compared Oceania, Crystal Cruises and Explora Journey.  It is impossible to do an Apples-to-Apples comparison.  The different brands make sure of that with their different policies.  However this is not my first Rodeo.  So I used information I had on Oceania and Crystal.  I called Crystal to verify their information was correct and I was just on Oceania so I know that pretty well. I added in the Explora Journey.  I look at the total investment, daily investment for each guest, Amenities, Perks, and misc information.  It is and has always been a very helpful way to evaluate if used with Blog, article and video information one can find online. 

YouTube.com Video's:  I watch all I could find and they differed somewhat but gave a consensus of information that added to my knowledge base. I much prefer normal people rather then travel agents of so called influencers.  

Conclusion:  I stick with my statements on post # 34 of this stream.  However, my further research gave me the confidence to move forward.  I booked a 8 day Caribbean Cruise on the Explora I for late January 2025.  My sister is all-in.  I look forward to the experience and appreciate everyone's feedback.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, FetaCheese said:

Oceania Flash Sale now thru 29 May. 18 cruises.

@FetaCheese If you have a link can you provide it.  I don't see it on the site anyway, but I might have missed it.  Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.