Allure vs Equinox Suite Class

We wish to compare the two suite class vessels, Equinox and the Allure. We sailed last year same time aboard the Allure GS 8254 371/105 sq. ft. cabin/balcony. The Coastal Kitchen (Allure) was so good we booked this year's cruise in OS 14644 556/243 sq.ft. July 15, 2018. The cabin was divided into two rooms, and the balcony was too huge. We only used 2/3 of the balcony. We are still learning. The Sky suite this year on the Equinox S1 1663 300/57 sq.ft. June 23 2018 was also a nice cabin. 300 sq.ft is enough not to get in each others way. The balcony was too small for our wants, 2 lounge chairs facing the ocean. The Coastal Kitchen was so bad this year that we do not plan another cruise aboard the Allure. Beware the Caesar salad in the Coastal Kitchen, last year no problems. You have 8 waiters in CK, you will have each of them at sometime. You get one dedicated waiter in the Equinox Luminae. The food was so good we booked another Equinox trip on board for next year. Even though both ships provided our category with prepaid gratuities, we find it an American habit of tipping cash to each of our 8 waiters, 2 maitre d’, 2 concierges, and room steward. We do not feel they are really getting what the cruise lines say they are sharing in.

Another very important aspect to consider for any potential cruiser is to check the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program for all ships that visit a US port. As of 12/31/17 the Allure scored 86 and 2/5/18 the Equinox scored 99. An 85 is failing.