Sthrngary

Thanks to everyone that shared on this stream.  I have continued to read other posts on Explora Journey.  As NCL had done with Oceania Cruises. MSC has realized that the Yacht Club is nice but not enough to bring in a client that is looking for a more intimate journey.  I used Oceania as an example but I could have used Princess or Viking.  

The key is a smaller ship, better personalization with the guests, and up tick in the quality/delivery of dining, and bar service. For true cruise fans, looking and studying different brands and how the compare to each other is fascinating to me. Each brand does something different.  Example: Explora Journey Adult Unlimited Drink Package is for all guests.  No need to show your room card.  Oceania Cruise has Wine and Beer at lunch and dinner.  You can pay extra to upgrade to Unlimited Drink programs.  The hassle is showing your card each time you gain a drink. Regent Seven Seas Cruise claims to be completely all inclusive including most excursion's. Explora does not provide excursions but does provide buses to the city center; Oceania NOW provides 300-400 credit pre guest for excursions but does not always provide buses to city center. Positive and Negatives to all however it is always reflected in the fare one way or another. Lots more difference but all I wanted to do was make a point. 

My initial feelings with just a few days research is Explora Journey is simply attempting to get their sea legs.  Historically, each time a new approach to cruising has happened, those learning curves also happened.  Great companies listen to what the guests actually say and make changes.  This same concept of gaining sea legs happened to the NCL with the Haven, Celebrity with the Retreat, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection initially and ever Virgin Cruises.  When the consistence and changes happen over time, I fully expect the fares to rise and the ships to be sold out. 

This offering is seems to be more like Luxury vs Ultra-Luxury.  A comparison to Crystal was made and I can see that from all I have read. The difference for me is the new Crystal fares compared to the current Explora Journey make Explora Journey the current value.  That is my take so far feed back welcomed.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

15 minutes ago, Laszlo said:

We were escorted down 4 times to the small club to see shows, can in thru the back door. When they opened the doors I only heard one person griping about. Another Haven guest piped up to the person and said these are the perks if you want to pay the price.

@Laszlo Glad you received this courtesy.  It is not however provided on each ship, in each Haven to every Haven Guest.  That means, if it is, GREAT.  If it is not, that should be the expectation. No disappointment that way.  On Disney, in their upper level, this benefit is provided in writing to those in the upper level.  All NCL says is escorts to the big shows with a reserve Haven Section.

Realistic Expectations are the clarification that something may, or may not happen.  If I was new to Haven, asked for the escort and early entry to the small venues and did not get it, it would be disappointing.  I am trying to have folks go in and get wowed, not disappointed.  

I completely believe your account.  You are not the only one who has had this experience.  I also read lots of other that were disappointed.  Just managing expectations, that is all.  Thank you for you comment.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

The NCL Haven along with the Celebrity Retreat, MSC Yacht Club and other VIP area's on Mainstream Cruise brands all have be created for a reason. To each guest that books one of these staterooms/categories, it provides items/amenities/benefits that will enhance their cruising experience. The first area's to sell out on many cruise are these categories yet they are in many case three to four times the cost of a simple balcony stateroom. 

Many say when you do the Haven, you can't go back.  Some establish these VIP categories a perfect approach to cruises saying it is the best of both worlds.  A huge Mega ship with all it has to offer and a very exclusive private area with greatly improved amenities. Other say it is a slap in the face of the majority of the guest on that ship.  The debate will go on as does the debate on how to handle "Chair Hogs" at the pool.  Opinions are just that, opinions. 

I have written now since 2018 about my enjoyment of the Haven and other area's like it on other brands.  Those blogs have gone viral however one really negative aspect of this topic really bothers me. My approach has always been to be balances, fair and clear especially on how to leverage ever penny of value if you pay the premium.  The words I use quite often is, "Always have realistic expectations".  My contributors describe their experiences as Perfect, Life Changing, The only way to go.  This approach drive some new guest to choose the Haven and be somewhat disappointed.  The image they had in their head prior to cruising, was not matched with the reality during their Haven Cruise. That makes me sad.

Part of my reason and strategy to write so much about these area's was to emphasize the good, be real about the average and show a way around the bad. If you know what is not so good, you can take action so that aspect of your experience is non-existent. If you are going to be hit in the face with a right hook, duck. Don't stand there and take the punch.

Here are some examples:

1. Butlers:  For me on all examples of Mainstream Cruise Brands the butlers have been hit or miss.  Attentive or absent is the best way I can describe it.  If you read folks that say, "I never had a butler before and it was one of the greatest experience of my life in every way." Then you gain your first butler that was less then satisfactory, you cruise experience based on your expectation are lower.  Mainstream Cruise brands have a habit of over working their butlers on area's having nothing to do with personalized service for their assigned guest.  My solution that is debated as much as "Chair Hogs", write a simple butler letter explaining in writing what your likes and dislikes are and provide with some or all of the gratuities on day one.  For me, but clearly not everyone, the quality of my mainstream butlers attentiveness instantly got better.  Disappointment with butler down, enjoyment of cruise up. 
2.  
3. Lack of Menu Variety in the Haven Dining Room:  First and for most, I personally like the Haven dining room especially for Breakfast and Dinner.  The Menu never changes from night to night so many have issues with that.  Having this knowledge before you cruise in the Haven, allows you to utilize the two or more specialty restaurant options throughout your cruise.  To do so as a strategy which makes the Haven Menu, not an issue. Some post state that the Haven Restaurants will cater to your food requests by making items not on the menu.  I am not talking about getting something from the Main Dining room or being Gluten Free.  I am talking about items that are special not on the menu.  When a new Haven Guest hears this, that becomes their expectation and when it is not provide, they again are disappointed.  Again, manage your expectations because it can make your cruise better if you do.
4.  
5. Gaining Early Entrance Into Small Venues: An example is the Cavern Club with is very small and popular.  A Haven Guest posted his Haven Team took him in the side door to get a set early.  This create lots of folks angry that this was happening and why were they not offered the same benefit.  Other said they asked and were denied. I have been in the Haven lots of times, I write about how to take advantage of every amenities available.  I have NEVER been provided access early to the small venues.  So when I go onboard, don't get it, I am not disappointed.  Realistic Expectations.

These are just a few examples.  My message is don't think you are going the a six star hotel, it is a Mainstream Cruise Brand that is elevating the experience for 225 people out of 4500 guest onboard. Go in with Realistic Expectations and play fair when your review your experience.  Be balanced and realistic so other are not terribly disappointed when they don't get "Only Red M&M's four times a day from their Butler."

Cruise well and enjoy every moment

@rjp50 The following is a section of my Journey document done for my recent Oceania Cruise 10 day Mediterranean Cruise sailed November 2023 on the Riviera. This Journey Document was created to help my guest since it was their first time cruising and with a Butler.  I hope this gives you so assistance. See below:

How To Utilize Your Butler:

·        Menus: Each morning, they will bring you that day’s “Grand Dining Room” menu.  The Specialty Restaurants Menus are in the suite, and I have digital copies. You MAY want to attempt to change your specialty restaurant booking that evening in the Specialty Restaurant based on “Grand Dining Room” menu. Make sure you can replace that reservation for another time that suits you before you cancel it.

·        Coffee: Bring your morning coffee and pastries if you like, even from the illy™ Barista Coffee Bar. Always give your butler good instructions, a head up, and time to prepare.

·        Reservations: Assist in making or changing Specialty Restaurant reservations.  Remember, “NO” guarantees especially on a sold-out cruise and that is why making those reservations pre-cruise as soon as you can, is important.

NOTE: When I upgraded to a “Vista Suite”, I got eight (8) guaranteed specialty restaurant reservations. I will attempt to have the butler add Winkler’s on the second four (4) reservations.

·        In-Suite Dining: Serve you in-suite dining from ANY restaurant.  The butler will do this course-by-course.  Please give your butler a fair head up and only order from one restaurant to avoid confusion.

·        Sweet Dreams™ Pillow Menu: Gain the pillow you want from the Sweet Dreams™ Pillow menu and exchange it for the pillow on the bed.

·        Afternoon Tea in your Suite: Oceania has Afternoon Tea daily in the Horizons Observation Lounge at 04:00 PM.  You may choose to have a personalized Afternoon Tea in your suite.  As with all uniquely special services, give the Butler a fair head-up.

·        Afternoon Canapes: Provide you with your afternoon canapes based on your selections provided to them in the morning.

NOTE: This seems great for a day or two then it can affect enjoyment of our dinner.  You can tell the butler to skip it.

·        Bubble Bath: Draw you a bubble bath at a specific time.

·        Escort: Escort you to the main theatre shows, restaurants and events upon request.

NOTE: A Butler is NOT your date.  They take you to the location and drop you off.

·        Laundry: Take care of your complementary laundry of three (3) bags of 20 items each or less.  There is a three-day turnaround time for return.

·        Shoeshine: Have a scuff on your shoes, give them to your butler.

·        Pressing:  You have up to three (3) days after embarkment to provide four (4) items per cabin for pressing.

·        Port Reservations: Gains reservations even for port restaurants.

·        Luggage: Unpack and pack your luggage.  This is NOT something I have ever had done.  Those that have had it done seem to enjoy it.

NOTE: I do what is called a Butlers letter.  It gives information to the butler on minor requests, so they don’t have to read our minds.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, English Tim said:

What none of us know is what it’ll be like when the ship is full.

@English Tim I am very new here on this board.  I am not new to cruise critic or cruising.  Can you elaborate.  Are the ships not filled now?  Any information will be helpful.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

My travel agent suggested for me to learn more about Explora Journey.  I read a few reviews, I saw some familiar contributors from other boards. I am looking at to consider Explora but need some comparisons to what I have been used too in the past. Any and all feedback would be appreciated. Full disclosure, I never ask questions unless I am seriously considering a brand. All the brands I will outline below I still enjoy but for specific cruises or experiences I want on a cruise.  I am booked for a 10 day Mediterranean Cruise in late 2025 on Oceania Vista. 

What I enjoy and want in my future cruises:

• Brands and Experiences I have Enjoyed in the Past: NCL Haven, MSC Yacht Club, Celebrity Retreat and most recently Oceania Cruise Larger Ships. In each case, the personalized service, dining, bars and amenities were better then standard cruise categories. 
• Personalized Service: Feeling like a guest vs. a number.  Service that does not feel like a cookie cutter.  
• Dining: Not rushed, attentive service, quality food, with the understanding it will never be Five Star since it is a floating hotel. I also realize food in general is subjective. 
• Semi-All-Inclusive: I have no need for airfare, I would prefer to arrange and do my own excursions, I would enjoy as I notice this brand has transfers from ports to city central, access to all areas including thermal spa, specialty restaurants, etc. 

Things I would like to know:

• What are the benefits or amenities differences between stateroom categories.  Early booking for specialty restaurants, early boarding, additional benefits for inside staterooms, butlers, and in-stateroom bar/soft drink setups.
• Those that have gone on the brands and categories I outlined above, how the Explora compared in you mind. 

I will continue to google, watch YouTube Video's, and call the reservations to clarify some questions.  Any information from those that have traveled this brand would be appreciated.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Glad so many people like this topic. Full disclosure. A topic like this in different levels of detail are on every Cruise Critic Brand Blog. The best I had ever scene or read was the one on the old Crystal Cruises.  The author really helped me back then to select Crystal for a "Luxury Cruise Test Drive". As my hobby of cruise continues in my twilight years, it is so enjoyable to try new things, brands, accommodations, foods and itineraries. The scary part is reading some guest love something and other guest equally dislike the same things. 

Instead of being upset with something you read, watch or hear about with regards to a brand; consider the brand in it's entirety.  80% favorable and 20% not.  On the items that don't suit you, see if there is a way to avoid them and therefore not be effected by them.  That raises the favorable rating.  Example, I heard the coffee was not great outside of the Barista on Oceania.  This community said, "Get your coffee from the Barista and take it to breakfast."  Brilliant advice. By doing so, I never had bad coffee because I avoided it.  Simple solution to a complicated problem. Avoid what others teach you and if it is unavoidable, simply set your expectations accordingly.

I am no guru on cruises.  I do know myself and what destroys a vacation for me. If I can't avoid those things, I simply choose another vacation. Life is to short to mess around. All we need is enough information to evaluate from what is important to each of us.  Take the time, have the right attitude and learn from others. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

23 minutes ago, QuestionEverything said:

OP thank you for the time to post your analysis.

I love the size of O ships, the graciousness of the passengers, the good food but "best at sea", TBD. The staff are welcoming and smiling and they love it when you smile at them. Love the "classless" approach of O and the other premium and luxury lines (albeit with a few perks for the higher level, but no ship within a ship bull) - which is why I exclusively patronize this level of cruise lines.

Totally agree with the often lack of value for $ for the size of rooms, especially on port intensive voyages, we are rarely in our room other than to sleep.

My concern in the many recent NCL company Oceania, Regent, NCL posts regarding cancelled ports. I cruise only for the ports, no other reason.

The O decision in 2023, to reduce the time at ports by 1 hr across the portfolio for "environmental" reasons is total bull to me.

Way too many posts over many years about O cancelling ports using "operational reasons" "weather" versus other cruise lines.

Other posts will no doubt disagree, that is fine.

But this issue has to be remediated before I will book another O cruise.

 

 

 

 

 

@QuestionEverything Understood and respected.  This is why we as consumers have options.  Our decision, our money and we can do what we want.  Regardless, enjoy your next cruise.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, durberville said:

First time Oceania cruiser (booker) here. Thank you so much for this!
 

One note…I’ve read so much about Oceania’s tendency to skip ports, I start every conversation with my husband by saying “We’ll probably miss that port but…” I am fully expecting a 25 night cruise locked up on the Regatta so I will NOT be disappointed… surely we’ll make one or two ports!  😉🤣

@durberville Here is my strategy.  Many make claims on social media.  For the most part, I don't pay attention.  Until it becomes a trend or pattern.  This happens on all brands on social media.  When I realize this might be a thing, I prepare myself and my guest that it might happen.  This lesson's the blow.  

The example used was missed ports.  I told my group, we will most likely miss a port or two.  If we do, it will either be a sea day or another port.  We missed Florence, and another port was provided. Because we anticipated it, it was no big deal.  

The key is having realistic expectations.  Then manage those expectations.  The bottom line is we the guest have no control of things like this but we do control our attitude and expectations. It is a floating hotel on the sea.  Stuff happens outside or my control so you just have to let it go.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

12 minutes ago, cruiseny4life said:

I know this works for you and I'm not one to judge your method! If it works for you, it works. And that's all that matters! Especially when it comes to tipping cruise staff.

 

For me, and me only, I choose to tip the server(s) at the end of the cruise. I'm a firm believer in tipping for great service. Typically two to three servers receive a tip. The others receive whatever portion of the onboard service charge that is reserved for them, in whatever way NCL actually provides it (please don't turn this into a debate...pretty pleeeeeease, y'all).

@cruiseny4life I know what you mean about a debate.  This subject comes up often.  It is debated often.  No right answers but lots of opinions.  Here is the bottom line.  Whether it is the category you cruise, the stateroom you select, the specialty restaurant you like the best, how/when/how much you tip, or the brand that floats your boat.  It is all of our personal decisions.  My adult son says, "Dad, you do you". 

All that really matters is in this hectic world, with stress and constant issues; we all have the opportunity to enjoy a few days they way we want too.  I feel blessed to cruise and to have shared the experience with friends and family.  We are all so lucky to live in a world with the ability to vacation.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

I am writing this because of so many first time Oceania Cruisers with so many questions.  I also had lots of questions before, during and after my bookings.  My past is NCL (Haven), Celebrity (Retreat), MSC (Yacht Club) and HAL (Suites).  For the longest time I was sold on big mega ships.  Mostly the Caribbean and Mexico. I have had inside cabins to the Nicest Suites onboard.  My enjoyment was much more about the people I met and the friends/family that joined, then the stateroom.  Then I went on Oceania Cruises and it was different in positive ways I did not expect.

I did not choose Oceana Cruise, it kind of choose me. Our best friends wanted to do a "Once in a Lifetime Mediterranean Cruise".  There Travel Agent suggested Regent Seven Seas.  When they heard the price, they had major sticker shock.  I personally was willing to bite the bullet but they just could not make it work.  So, that left Oceania Cruises.  I am so very happy I made that decision.  It kind of changed my likes/dislikes on cruising after over 30+ Cruises. If you are new to Oceania Cruises, here are some of my reasons for my change of heart from past choices.

Caribbean and Mexico Cruises:  Always was great weather but went to those same place lots of time.  I never really felt comfortable with the destinations.  Simply felt like shopping and a OK beach.  Still great memories but wanted something different.

Mediterranean: I had been to Europe and the Mediterranean many times on business.  Never for pleasure until my November 2023 10 day Riviera Cruise. It was immediately clear my experience would be much more enjoyable then those business trips.  Each port was different, interesting and never boring.  I learned about Hop On/Hop Off buses, and local tour guides.  

Smaller Ship:  The smallest ship I had ever gone on held 1250 guest and that was the Riviera.  I thought it would be to small.  Instead I found the size perfect and it never seemed to be crowded. That really surprised me.  Did I miss the Water Slides, Go Cart Tracks or Broadway Shows; NO.  Been there and done that many times. Sold me on a smaller ship concept.

Guest On Board: I was expecting everyone to be on oxygen, in wheel chairs and with knee braces. Instead I found some middle age to older guest but every single person I came in contact with had a zest for life which made age a non-issue.  A very pleasant surprise. Very few children as one might expect. 

Dining and Food: Before someone else comments, yes food is relative.  I never believed the hype on best food at sea.  My only hope was a click better then what I was used to in past cruises.  That was achieved especially at the Specialty Restaurants. The buffet was better but just like other buffets, it was all about your choices.  The grille by the buffet had great burgers which for me suits me.  At night the same place had nice pizza but we were in Italy so our lunch pizza at the ports were obviously better. Breakfast at the Main Dining Room was one of my highlights of every morning.  

Coffee: The Barista Coffee, the quality and the snacks were great and complementary on Oceana.  That was different from other ships I have been on so it was nice to have that available to everyone. The quality of the coffee was excellent. 

Bars and Drinking: The crowd was not huge drinkers.  More like social drinkers. The four of us had the Prestige Unlimited Drink Package.  That decision was based on past experience and for our group was a good experience.  However, if you want to make a bar in your stateroom, you can bring wine and spirit onboard and save that cost.  We will do it again knowing that it is kind of a waste of money but I personally like the convivence when I am on vacation.  I still learned from a fellow guest to buy local wine and spirts at the ports which was extremely fun.  The bottom line is, you don't have to get the unlimited drink package to have a GREAT Time. I will say, an evening highlight was going the Martini Bar which was rarely crowded and had a nice piano player.  Suited me and was special compared to my normal life.

Entertainment: Hit or miss.  The guest performer was outstanding.  One of the production shows was ok, the other one was well, not so good.  It did not matter at all.  We were tired after our day in the ports anyway.  We always sit in the last row by the exit so we can leave if the show does not suit us.  The Karaoke was enjoyable but very few people ever came.  It was usually at 10 PM so I fully understood. Still fun. 

Casino: Small, never crowded and for a small ship nice place.  But I am not a huge gambler so take that into consideration.  

Staterooms:  All were nice.  As the price went up, obviously so did the size of the stateroom.  Oceania for the most part treats everyone the same when they leave their stateroom.  However there are subtle difference when you go to the higher priced suites.  Earlier time to make Specialty Restaurants reservations, Penthouse and higher has a butler, Concierge Level and higher have assess to the Outside front of the ship spa complementary.  The debate is if you had a more expensive stateroom, did you gain other priorities due to your stateroom.  Probably so but rather then debate it, let say I would be quite happy with almost any stateroom as long as it had a balcony.  On port intensive cruises, the stateroom is to sleep in mostly.  Full disclosure, I had one of the top suites called a Vista Suite.  Lovely huge and I won't book it again because it was a lot of wasted space.  I also got a deal on it so I could not turn it down.  I will say, the beds in all the staterooms were excellent. 

Staff and Crew:  Another area of debate.  I found everyone to be attentive, kind and caring.  Please know, I had no issues on our cruise.  For folks that have had issues, they were less impressed then I was but that was my impression.  Folks got to know you even by name quickly and for the most part, treated us very nicely. Your experience may vary. My general rule is be engaging and folks will engage with you.  

Value: I got lucky and hit two sales that both worked together.  I booked another Oceania Cruise for October 2025 on the Vista and kind of feel those sales won't happen this time. We will see but always look for sales.  Some are better then others. 

Airfare:  We booked our own and controlled everything from selecting seating well in advance to purchasing early to save money.  Again, your experience may vary.  What I found out for myself was not to be afraid of transfers in Europe.  A simple Google search or YouTube video is worth its weight in gold.

Area's of Concern:  All though we were quite happy with the dining, some meals were much better than others.  We never got hungry.  The laundry room was crowded at the end of the cruise so I learned to do the laundry earlier next time.  We also had some laundry that was complementary to the stateroom.  I missed the cut off but learned to ask next time. Our deck in the Vista Suite was huge but worthless at night when the ship was moving. It was in the front of the ship and due to wind when cruising, they tied down the furniture every night. One of the Specialty Restaurants was horrible due to a lack of staff.  Yet, the general consensus is that was not the case most of the time. The weather in November was great but not perfect for pool swimming.  Yes there were a few guest that hogged the best lounge chairs.  Far less then I was used to on Main Stream Mega Ships. 

Since I wrote this post for first time Oceania Guest, attached is a very long detailed FAQ document I posted in the past.  Some things have changed but I wish it was available when I was first considering Oceania.  Oceania_Cruises_FAQ.pdf

No cruise is perfect.  No cruise brand is perfect.  Taste change of the years and everyone has different expectations.  The one rule I have is always have realistic expectations.  When something goes wrong like missing your favorite port, you have to recover quickly and shake it off.  We missed Florence, Italy which was a port I really want to go to.  I knew that Oceania missed ports frequently when it happened, we all got over it quickly. All in all, a great experience which again somewhat surprised me. Hope this helps and if you have any questions, post them.  I assure you, the folks here on Cruise Critic will help you as they did me.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

5 hours ago, Pappy1258 said:

Just off the JOY in the haven and for those of you who were wondering it was as much lobster as you want ,at no added charge, in the haven restaurant. Lobster Lobster Lobster

@Pappy1258 Your post emphasizes that not every post on a subject is 100% accurate.  Only those folks that actually have just been on the cruise. Also, thinks can change quickly so what might have been the case a few months ago, NCL could have changed it when they heard the guest feedback.  Whether lobster or a specific champagne available,  a recent guest like yourself really helps this and all brand boards.  Thank you for taking the time to post and clarify.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

8 minutes ago, MEFIowa said:

Though I'm not sure you're giving an adequate presentation for others to make sense of your specific situation on that cruise.

 

You HAD A VERY HIGH-LEVEL cabin, far above PH. Weren't you the Vista Suite (VS) 12001? You were kind enough to give me a tour of your VS. And how you got it was out of the norm. I wonder how many know that story?

 

And weren't you eating with the other couple, so tables for 4 most nights? How many of your 9 were tables for just 2? AND what times were you eating at? We could get the early times for our A3 cabin, but not for our B3.

 

For sadly, as we learned at the B versus A levels on our B2B that included your 10-night cruise, O wouldn't allow us to book from the B cabin at times we wanted in advance. And once they changed our 9 pm reservation to 8:30, which seemed to be the actual last time for any couples to arrive. The places emptying out by 9 pm. All but deserted by 9:30.

 

So begs the question, HOW did you keep getting reservations when we were denied them in advance? And none available the day of. WE tried to go to the desk to get better times. Nothing was available for us on the 4 nights we had our reservations. All crummy late times.

@MEFIowa I truly enjoy your comments and posts on CruiseCritic.com.  I also attempt to always respond in a kind way to all that have a question or want my limited advice.  You are the expert on finding value in everything you do.  We all can learn a lot from you and the experience you have successfully achieved.  I was personally impressed with your approach although mine was different.  I, on the other hand have far less experience on Oceania but I try to be a quick learner.  That is the purpose of social media in my opinion.

My issue was not my Vista Suite. It was having each of the meal with my traveling partners who were in a Penthouse.  So YES it was a table for four.  I did not see the question how do I get a table for two, just how do I get additional reservations.  I must have missed that. Second, our butler helped us once and we took a reservation earlier then we liked.  That was just fine. Third, the main person in the restaurants helped us multiple times because we got to know them.  I did not show my Vista Suite card, they were kind and considerate. Make people have a good time doing what they do, they treat you better. Just my approach and it works for me. 

I don't do many things right, just ask my family,  but what I am good at is engaging with people. I made a living at it during four decades.  If some of the recommendations I provide work, great; if you try and it does not work, then nothing lost.  What I don't believe in is taking NO for an answer. Never give up.

I hope to see you and your lovely bride on a future cruise.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

11 hours ago, Vineyard View said:

Thank you both. So basically, all is the same in terms of numbers of reservations in specialty restaurants PH and below.   However, your butler (which we have never had…we never felt we would see the added value for the cost on some lines, tbh) can be helpful. 

This thread has given me a lot to think about…..
 

@Vineyard View Your statement above seems to be accurate.  It was a point of confusion to me also.  With the understanding I have only one Oceania Cruise under my belt, I am no expert.  However, I am comfortable with my personal experience.  My strategy was to not book the first night in a Specialty Restaurant using my four pre-cruise reservations in other strategic days.  Once on the ship, I went to the specific restaurant and asked for that night and was easily granted a very nice time slot. I learned that approach right here on Cruise Critic.com.

Eating Dinner in the Room.  Some like it, some don't.  I don't, so I much preferred the restaurant. Now the next approach to gaining more specialty dining reservations is engaging with the Main Person in the restaurant as you are eating there. That has worked for me and my party.  Remember, on the day you want another reservation, approach the restaurant and or guest service for a reservation that night (Day of).  On my 10 days cruise, we had 9 Specialty dining nights.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, caribdvr said:

Thank you. 
 

I believe you have answered the mystery for me. A1 is $8.3k, A1 $8.8, PH3 $9.5 but PH 2 is $11.7. I could not figure out why there was such a big jump. I guess the sale is doing that. All of the PH3 are “guaranteed” and perhaps that makes a difference.  

@caribdvr The topic of Guaranteed Staterooms has been a topic over and over again.  I personally booked two Guaranteed PH3's for my cruise on the Riviera for a 10 day Mediterranean Cruise November 2023.  The results of a Guaranteed Cabin vary as those many comments on the topic clearly showed.  

I purchased the two guaranteed PH3's because that sailing had an four category upgrade sale so it was the best value.  Not all four category upgrade sail include the PH category.  There is no financial benefit taking any guaranteed stateroom like other cruise brands.  If not for the upgrade, I would not have done so.  Long story short, one of the PH3 Guarantee's cleared about five days before the cruise.  The other one which was mine, I upgraded on my own again long story.

With pricing that looks confusing, always call Oceania and ask.  Sometimes it is simply not posting the accurate sale price, other times there is a simple explanation.  Just my thoughts on the matter.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, Kay S said:

This PH or better talk could be discouraging to new O cruisers, such as myself, who are booked down in steerage. 🙃 Don't tell me we will treated differently because of that.  This particular cruise is the perfect itinerary on the perfect dates, and we booked late.  Rather than risk the waitlist on something with a verandah, we took an ocean view down on a lower deck.  My husband is allergic to "class system" cruises and will never book  on one of those ship-within-a-ship behemoths coming out on the mainstream lines.  I don't want to tell him Oceania is more class-based than any others.  Yes, I get it; you pay more, then you get more.  I guess what I'm asking is will there be any "snobs" on O we will need to avoid?

@Kay S I am the person that made one of the comments of PH or higher.  I was not in anyway suggesting that it was the way to go.  I was responding to another poster that it does not matter and whether the owners suite of inside cabin it is the decision of the guest.

I would like to add to my comments.  The entire reason I started to book on Oceania is because, Once you leave you stateroom, EVERYONE is treated the same.  I hated on Main Stream Cruise Brands that folks were treated differently.  Oceania is not like that.  Please also know that the people, all the people I met were super kind, professional and humble. It made the trip for me.  

My cruising history started 44 years ago for my honey moon.  We were in a bunk bed inside cabin on the SS Norway.  We thought then and now it was one of the greatest experience of our lives.  30 plus cruises later we elevated our stateroom but the experience again is the same.  

I hope that all makes sense to you and other.  Thank you for sharing your thoughts and allow me to further explain.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

36 minutes ago, FNSCGAL said:

any recommendations for the specialty restaurants? How about entertainment?

@FNSCGAL on the NCL Blog, I just posted the Excel Agenda and the Butler Letter for you.  On the dining.  I would have the Prime Rib in the Haven restaurant.  I would choose the Seafood Restaurant and the French Restaurant.  If you like noodle bars, it is complementary but you have to get there early or wait a long time.  The 24/7 restaurant has good wings and burgers.  The Buffet is good but not great.  

My favorite place is the Haven lounge in the front of the ship for early morning coffee and Danish.  The high-end coffee machine has great specialty coffee's with Starbucks beans.  The assortment of light snacks or breakfast suits me when I am up early.  The lounge is my favorite place on the ship.  The General Lounge is just below it with a real Starbucks with is only part of the Premium Plus Drink Package.  

The shows are always really good but NCL has cut back on the Broadway shows of recent.  If they have a Cavern Club with the Beatles, don't miss a show even though it is always packed.  In the main showroom, they have a side section for Haven Guest.  Gain reservations for the show you want with the Haven Concierge in the Haven Lounge. The bar tenders in the Haven Lounge are the best on the ship but Haven Guest work the hell out of them so they are always very busy.  When they are not, ask them to make a "Smoking Drink" even if you pay for it.  Take out your camara and video the show.

The Haven Sundeck is the place to be in one of the hot tubs when they do Glacier bay. Have a drink, look outside while in a hot tub is excellent.  Again, ask me anything.

Always gamble with a Card so you can get rated.  Never ever gamble without a card.  Learn from my mistakes. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

27 minutes ago, FNSCGAL said:

@SthrngaryThank you for this post!!! I think I just asked about a format for the letter on your other reply for 1st time cruiser advice and I see that it was added on Trina Moo's reply now. 

 

This post has definitely given me things to think about to hopefully allow a realistic, non chaotic experience. I am even more excited to dial in the planning this next week 🙂 

@FNSCGAL This attachment might help your planning. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. Cruise_Agenda_Template.xlsxButler_NCL_Cruises_Template.docx

26 minutes ago, fdnycruiser said:

Gary, I can’t believe that people would actually give you heat over your letter. I think it was well thought out with good suggestions. 

@fdnycruiser The real heat was my approach to putting the entire tip in the letter upfront.  I get it.  We all need to do what is best for each of us. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

4 minutes ago, FNSCGAL said:

@Sthrngary As a first time cruiser and one lucky enough to win a Haven bid (yay), I'm not even sure what to expect or do. I read your posts about the Haven and the butler tips, etc but I am not sure if there are differences as far as the cruise location and how things are handled with ports, reservations of any kind, etc. My husband and I will be doing an Alaska cruise in June 🙂 and have the excursions figured out, as well as flying into Seattle a couple days ahead of the boarding to see family, but we were just going to eat in the main dining room and check all the other stuff out as this will be our first. What tips would you give as I have not gotten the concierge letter or email as others have discussed when booking the Haven? We will be sailing the Encore and my biggest goal it to be able to not have to make multiple decisions during vacation as I would like to be able to just relax. 

@FNSCGAL A first time cruiser, AND staying in the NCL Haven on the best ship the Encore.  where do you go from there?????  Good call on your part.  

Have you read my first post located on the NCL Cruise Critic blog call" The Secrets of the Haven....."  That first posting is very long and has lots of information.  I see you are also reading my posts on Oceania Cruises.  My opinions are the same. However, I will attempt to give you what I would do here.  

Pre-Cruise Concierge:  First, you contact email for them is " NorwegianConciergeDesk@ncl.com ".  I would normally ask for changes in Restaurant Reservation, water as well as extension cords for CPAP machine, and general information.  They can help sometimes and put a request into your reservation other times.  When you are on the ship, the ship board Haven Concierge can get mostly everything done for you.

Getting Onboard:  Haven Guest can go onboard first.  I always get to the port a bit early to be first onboard.  Not everyone thinks this way, but I do.  I then get to the On-Board Haven Concierge first or wait online to talk to them.  A busy time for them.  So since like you, want things done early, I wait.  Worth the wait. 

Manage Your Expectations:  The Haven is really nice but not crazy nice.  Please keep that in mind.  Leverage your expectations to be realistic so you can be pleasantly surprised. 

Dining: Yes relative to the person but you are asking me so here is my take. They will offer you a choice of lunch in the American Diner or some other restaurant or the Haven Exclusive Restaurant.  Do the Haven Restaurant and expect a longer leisurely lunch.  I would NEVER eat in the Main Dining room, ever.  I would eat in the Haven Dining Room but since it has the same menu every night, I would choose carefully the Specialty Restaurants that would suit my tastes.  I would also inform my butler that my room service should be from the Haven Restaurant not normal room service unless the Haven Restaurant does not have the item.  

Haven Butlers: Hit or miss and at very best Average.  Knowing that, you need to communicate your needs to them. I do it in writing which I call the butler letter.  Never huge items just thanks like coffee in the morning with Danish or almond Croissants which are only available to Haven Guest. Remember, not even your butler can bring you an alcoholic drink to your room without charging you.  Regardless of your drink package.  The stuff in your mini fridge is all at a cost so have the butler put it up.  The Sparkling Wine given is complementary and horrible.  I usually give to a newlywed. The afternoon snacks are the same for everyone so don't be disappointed.  Sometimes your butler can bring chips or m&m.  Realistic expectation.

That was just a few things that I feel might make you vacation better.  You can as any questions you want.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

1 hour ago, MEFIowa said:

I think paying for a PH is a waste of money since we cruise for excursions and ports and take port-intensive cruises.

The debate on staterooms (Dining Venues, Ports, Drink Packages, Amenities, and on) is similar to the debate on all things cruising.  A cruise brand wants to have a variety of options to met lots of clients needs.  Where one client wants a Penthouse and can give all the reasons they feel that way.  Another client can do the same for any other stateroom.  It is not a matter right or wrong.  It is a matter of can a client justify the value based on the cost and/or simply client preferences. There is NO wrong answer, just what suits you best.   

I make no bones about it.  I am a Penthouse or higher guy.  I have been for years. I lived on the road for decades in every type of hotel room from the worst to the best.  All paid by my clients.  Now in retirement, it is my money, my choice.  Regardless of anyone choice of stateroom, make it right for YOU, your vacation and your budget.  We are so very blessed to have the ability to vacation.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

6 minutes ago, Barsoap said:

Thanks for the info Basor  thanks all.

sthrngary.. train from Trieste to Milan @9.39 ,

basor above gave me the run down on the disembark particulars  but I’m still wondering about the overall time it will take and if  the 1-1/2 hrs  Is enough to make the transfer . Yes there are later trains  but none direct  all with longer travel times  cutting deeply into a day in Milan 

 

Based on my limited experience, using the early departure request, you should be close but fine.  Worst case is you take another train not direct.  The point is, you are close enough, getting on trains are simpler then the airport and your terminal is close to the cruise port.  Milan will be lovely.  

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

2 minutes ago, MEFIowa said:

Not sure the OP is really apples to apples. The point of cruising is to "sample" quickly and move on. But the point of spending time on vacation in a particular area is to dig deep and experience. They both are what you make of them

 

So, I know what you mean about the Med cruise we were both on off Riviera 11/2023. We had a magnificent time. We're in our late 50s so we were doing all the energetic walking and excursions to see sights (e.g., all those steps up the St. John's Fortress in Kotor). We did ours as a 20-night B2B hitting so many cities from Istanbul to Barcelona. With 3 nights each in Venice (before the start) and in Barcelona (at the end). We came to see and we saw. Each day off the boat early to be on the road to somewhere.

 

BUT I can then COMPARE our 2023 Med cruise to my solo dream vacation in PARAGUAY in April-May 2022. I spent 2 magnificent weeks in country. I did it by building my own personal route with an American who does small group and individual tourism there. We literally planned each day out in 30 minute blocks. And we drove her diesel SUV over 2000 KM from deep in the Chaco desert to the heart of the swamps of Neembucu. Usually with a guide or history expert on the day's places. With so many points in between. I took her to places she'd never been to in her 20 years dealing with Paraguay! I'd wake up at 4:30 or 5 am and immediately get up to wander around whatever city I was in. And I'd walk around them at night before going to bed. With each day filled with the places I wanted to go to. My bucket list trip tied to my love of Paraguayan history going back 40 years to my college days.

 

I loved them both and both were so entirely different. Now if I can just do future dedicated vacations in Madagascar & the Wild Coast of S. America (Guyana, Surinam & Fr. Guiana)!

My point was simply to tell a story of a new experience for me.  My first Oceania and Mediterranean Cruise we were on together was such a good time, I actually wanted to try a land only vacation in some of the same area's.  

Just like dining, to do or not do drink packages and type of staterooms we tend to choose; it is all relative and everyone is different.  I hope my post did not sell folks from wanting to do land only adventures.  That was not my intent. For me, only me, Cruise with a taste of a port seems to suit me best at the stage of my life. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

@Barsoap I was in Venice last week for two days with my daughter.  We took the Train from Rome to Venice.  When I read your post I was not sure if you were taking the train from the Trieste Cruise Terminal to Venice or to another location.  Another post above suggested you might be taking the Train to Venice.  Please Clarify.

On to Venice.  When I did was two things.  First, I used "My Google Maps" to create a map of Venice.  I then added in the Train Station in Venice which we arrived in.  I went back to my map and added in Trieste Cruise Port.  The port is a long distance from Venice.  You can hire a car (Expensive unless you share a van with others), the Bus (In expensive and only about 2 hours) or the train which you know about.  If you do the Train, You might be cutting it close.  Make sure you get a FLEX far so you can change trains at no cost.  Word of advice, ONLY book the train with the actual train company.  Don't use Ninja Train or High Speed Train.  They are a rip off.  

When you get to Venice, you will be at the train station where I was just at.  Do yourself a favor and take the Private Water Taxi which was $60.00 the Ferry is super crowned and you will wait for ever.  

If you have any other question I can answer, please let me know.  I loved Venice a lot. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

2 hours ago, Acruzaholic said:

We have always been able to secure VIBE passes, not very easy prior to now being able to buy bypassing the running on board early to secure them-On our first NCL cruise we secured VIBE passes by luck-First time was the charm. My wife will now not sail on NCL without VIBE passes-NO VIBE-then cancel the cruise

@Acruzaholic My wife feels the same way.

Cruise well and enjoy every moment.