chefchick

We are also sailing Explora for the first time in February and am very excited to try out a (new to us) line. We have been cruising for over 30 years on everything from Carnival to Seabourn and have loved something about (almost) every cruise we’ve ever been on 😎. I too, tend to consume as much information beforehand as possible, and sometimes can be accused of enjoying the planning of our cruises more than the cruise itself. That said, there are many channels/reviewers on social media and some I resonate more with than others. Just like here on CC, I think it’s important to remember that it’s easy to get excited over the shiny and new as we all did when the original reviews came out, but as more and more have actually sailed Explora it is (of course) not the perfect/ one size fits all perfection that is marketed to be. I know that going in and will temper my expectations accordingly. For example, many here have been upset at the swap of complementary high end champagne for all suites to what is considered a lesser brand. As someone who really doesn’t drink champagne, I could care less but would be upset if the bourbon selection was poor or the coffee tasted horrible, for example. We all have our preferences which can make or break an experience. I personally have never been on a perfect vacation or a terrible one, but with realistic expectations, the reminder that I am fortunate enough to on a vacation at all, and perhaps a delicious cocktail, I’m sure we’ll get thru. 🍸. To fair seas ahead.

Is it me, or is this “changing ports at the last minute (or after final payment) seem to be the norm with NCL lately? I know it’s “within their rights” but it seems excessive, no?

I will be boarding the Bliss in Early November. Although I’ve cruised on her many times, each sailing is different. Would love to know if you thought upgrading to premium was worth it? (Last time I considered it, they were out of most of the premium spirits and wines I would have ordered). With the “new” cut backs, how was entertainment overall? Is Jersey Boys still playing? Icons show? Anyway, I hope you had a great time and I look forward to the rest of your report.

I agree that indulge food hall is one of the best concepts onboard any NCL ship. Wish they all had them.

I would be the first person at the Silent disco and movies with the same style headphones (so we all have a different opinion of what is a “terrible idea”). But there isn’t enough alcohol on board to ever get me to sing at Karaoke 😎

That’s unfortunate you are having problems with what should be a pretty simple task. I’ve read on these boards that you can request alternate sprits than those listed. For those of you who have sailed with Explora before has that been your experience as well? For example, if we wanted to request a dark rum and some ginger beer for a dark and stormy on the balcony? I know that would be assuming they have something appropriate in stock but we will be sailing in the Caribbean so…

I stand corrected. It seems by your many postings that you did not enjoy your Explora cruise and that is unfortunate. It’s great that there are so many other lines out there for you to enjoy.

And yet none of those are included in your fare.

I am very happily married and cruise solo often as my husband prefers other ways to vacation. I too consider myself an introvert. My biggest piece of advice is push yourself out of your comfort zone (if necessary) and join the solo meet up on the first night. This will give you some indication of the vibe of the other solos and give you a chance to see if you click with anyone and more importantly, what the solo coordinator has planned for your cruise. Some coordinators really do a lot to heighten your overall experience (make dinner reservations for the group, secure a reserved solo area in the theater, answer questions, etc) where as others act like they got the short end the stick and aren’t particularly happy to be there. (Most are great tho). Anyway, I have found that at least going that first night can set the cruise off right, and then you can decide if you’d like to go every night or not. That’s the best thing about solo cruising…YOU get to decide. There is no right or wrong way. Have a great time, but you have been warned, solo cruises are addictive. 😎

Glad you found a good fit. If you have never been to Seattle before there are the obligatory stops of Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, but it really depends on how much time you have and what your goals are. Hotels downtown are expensive and not always the greatest places to walk around at night (although don’t let anyone convince you it’s the hell hole the media makes it out to be). If you are short on time, you might consider staying near the airport and saving a few bucks to spend on your excursions. I can recommend The Cedarbrook Lodge as a lovely hotel near the airport that doesn’t feel at all like an airport hotel. The grounds are pretty, the rooms have a Northwest theme and the restaurant is pretty decent. Not the cheapest, but nothing is in this city. Hope this helps.

I too sailed the Epic for the first time (I’m platinum on NCL so not my first time with the line) in April. It was a TA and not at full capacity but as stated above, it felt much more crowded than say, the Prima at full capacity. There was nowhere to just hang and play cards for example. The staff was overworked and although I read all about the weird cabins, I was not prepared for their layout. I could go on, but let’s just say, she was a one and done for me.

Living in Seattle, I have cruised to Alaska MANY times and on almost all the lines. Glacier Bay really should be a priority. Also, regardless of which line you choose, be sure to look carefully at length of port times, and wether they tender or if you can dig deeper, where they might be berthing and if shuttles are involved. Holland America and Princess have been sailing these routes the longest and therefore, generally tend to get preference (or have reserved/bought out) the best berths closest to town. Being able to just walk off easily makes a big difference in the ease of your day in port. Also, consider which month to sail (if possible). I have sailed every month available on Alaska’s short season and although July and August have more predictable weather the ports have also gotten ridiculously crowded, as have the ships. I much prefer late May/very early June or even September (after Labor Day) for “less” crowds. Whatever you choose, since you have time, do your research. Alaska isn’t as easy or as affordable as say, your random Caribbean cruise, but it’s worth it.

To the OP (and others doing research for future cruises) also remember that if you are used to less expensive excursions say in the Carribean for example do NOT expect that on an Alaska cruise. Yes, you can always just hike or go to lunch in ports fairly easily, but the reason most go are for things you can only do in Alaska (glacier viewing, wildlife sightings, helicopter or float plane rides, dog sledding etc) and these excursions cost A LOT of money. The Alaska cruise season is short and these vendors make their entire year’s salary on your choices so do your research and factor this expense into your overall budget. Hope this helps.

I have been fortunate to sail to Alaska MANY times and on many cruise lines. They all have pluses and minuses. Generally speaking Alaska cruises are more about the itinerary vs the ship/line, but since this would be for a honeymoon I assume you would also prefer a more laid back, adult experience and to spoil yourselves at least a little. Whatever line and ship you choose, be sure to look at time in port along with the ports themselves and take tendering into account. I would also second the suggestion of finding an experienced TA who could help you find a good balance of price and itinerary. Whatever you decide, congratulations and have a wonderful time.

I’ll be boarding this Friday and have been enjoying seeing the dailies and your amazing photos! Can I ask, have you been enjoying the restaurants, the shows? How about the bars and lounges? The cocktail above looks good, have you had any problems getting good brands of wine or alcohol at the bars? (supply chain issues, blah, blah, blah). Does the ship feel crowded? Lots of kids? Is that enough questions? Can you tell I’m excited 😎

Maybe it would be more appropriate in this instance if you don’t have anything nice to say, then spend your vacation time on a line or category of ships that appeals to you and stop complaining already! 😎

Just to reiterate (I’ve received different answers)….like the OP when I booked the only option was late dining. I am sailing on the Edge (my first E class ship) and would DEFINITELY like to switch to anytime dining. Do I need to do anything upon boarding like track down a Maitre D or is everyone on E class ships considered “anytime”? It’s confusing because I’ve seen other threads with folks wanting set dining times and reading that is also available….which is it? And if I do have to confirm with a Maitre D (which is fine) which dining room would I most likely find them set up on embarkation day?

One other thing about the bar tab that is useful for some…you can buy ONE and use it for all in your cabin or even to buy random strangers drinks. For a couple where one partakes in alcohol and one doesn’t this is great alternative to the traditional beverage package on other lines where everyone in a cabin has to purchase. It’s another way Virgin treats adults like adults. Just sayin.

The “bar tab” (Virgin’s take on the bev pkg) is pretty simple. You can purchase each drink outright, or if you pre purchase a $300 “tab” and they will add a certain amount to it (varies from sailing to sailing, but generally $50). Some sailings include a bar tab for X amount, so look out for specials. Best part? If you order a drink that costs $12 on the menu, that’s what you pay…taxes and gratuity are already included. Makes it easier IMO. As far as spa services, I’m not sure. I don’t think the current ships have great thermal suite areas like other brands, but there is one as well as separate barber and beauty shops. The gym on the other hand is excellent and all classes are included in your fare. There truly is no “nickel and diming”. When pricing out a Virgin cruise vs others you really have to compare apples to apples because so much is already included (wether you would use/partake in those inclusions is up to you).

If this isn’t just an anomaly from one person’s experience on one ship I’m confused why this would happen in the first place? I could understand if I order “a martini” or “a glass of Sauvignon Blanc” the bartender probably won’t go out of their way and serve you what is easily available in front of them. But when you specifically call out a particular brand what do they have to gain by trying to cheat you? Ultimately it seems bad for business. I’m pretty particular about what brands I consume so I tend to order directly at the bar and watch my cocktails being made but if I pay for a premium product and someone tries to give the ole switcheroo I won’t have a problem going full blown Karen on them. 😜

I can do you one better 🙄. I was at the Martini bar around six o’clock when a “gentleman” sat down next to me in a bathrobe, no shirt, no shoes (I wasn’t going to investigate any further as to what he may or may not have been wearing underneath). I assumed he was either coming or going to the spa or hot tubs, but no…he just settled in for a martini. Needless to say I took my martini to go. 🍸

It’s my standard first cruise cocktail on boarding day…it better be 😎

Another consideration when booking a Windstar cruise is the ships themselves. They have the traditional “sailing vessels” (the sails are really just for show but very cool nonetheless ) and the transformed yachts they purchased from Seabourn. Both are great, but the overall vibe and guest experience CAN be very different. Just something to think about when booking. A great product for those looking for a small ship cruise with generally wonderful itineraries.

As much as I love to travel the world, even when it is to countries that know their coffee, there is just something about that first cup when you get home…made just the way you like it…it’s almost as good as sleeping in your own bed.🌸

Nice. I’ve sailed Windstar (a few times actually) but the others are still on my list. Cruising is a passion and I’m fortunate enough to cruise multiple times a year. I love new experiences so I am always on the hunt for a line or an itinerary I haven’t tried YET. 😎. Happy sailing!