Getaway Haven 14-21 June (Couples Review)

[ee1999]

Couple of questions - we too like a nice quiet pool/outdoor experience.

 

The review mentioned some sort of an upper deck in the Haven area - Does that overlook the ocean/have ocean breezes or is it "enclosed"?

 

Is the Haven pool itself "enclosed" or ocean view/ocean breezes?

 

The adult only area (I forget the name) - is that relatively quiet or do they blare music or video?

 

Finally, what is the "vibe" area? Is it ocean view/ocean breezes?

 

Just to add to what miataman has said. The Haven pool area you cannot see the ocean or get a breeze. It's not covered with a roof, but is enclosed on all sides. I never felt that it got warm in that area though.

 

The overlook directly above the pool has shade that extends and is also very cool, but does get some breeze. The area away from the pool on the upper deck is mostly sun with some shade (umbrellas and cabanas if you want to use them). This is also the area were people smoke, but very courteous.

 

Spice is louder than any of the other restricted areas, but we thought it was fun.

 

Vibe area is not quite as plush as the Haven area, with no access to a pool in the immediate area. They do bring around food and cold towels like the Haven area though. I personally would not pay for Vibe if I had access to the Haven. Haven is nicer and included in your fare.

[BACON227]

Thanks for your review, you mentioned that you took pictures of Vibe, can you please post them..............

 

Trying to decide between The Haven or a mini-suite with a Vibe pass.

[ee1999]

 

 

Thanks for your review, you mentioned that you took pictures of Vibe, can you please post them..............

 

Trying to decide between The Haven or a mini-suite with a Vibe pass.

 

For what it's worth. I was originally going to do a mini-suite and Vibe passes, but decided to take the plunge and upgrade to Haven. If I were to do it again I would go with mini-suite and Vibe passes.

 

Vibe seemed very quiet and they come around with refreshments there just like Haven. As a low maintenance couple, the price difference just wasn't justified for us. I know there are a lot of cc members who swear by Haven, but for me once you get over the "Wow we're in the Haven" effect it just wasn't worth it.

 

I am in the minority on this if you read most Haven reviews, but I also feel some people place a value on the status of being in the Haven. That's just not a big deal for us.

[ee1999]

There is an upper deck overlooking the Haven pool area. It also has a starboard and front view of the ocean. There are area's up there that have a breeze and others that don't, your choice. The small Haven pool is not enclosed but not much of a breeze. Spice H20 (adult only area) is rather noisy compared to the Haven area. Vibe is an enclosed area on the same deck as The Haven. You must purchase a week pass to have access. It is separate from the Haven and has its own bar, loungers, 2 hot tubs and cabanas. Haven guests do not have access to Vibe. They only sell a limited amount of passes.

 

 

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Patrick,

Hope you still check this occasionally. I was reading posts for Celebrity Reflection (we are going on the 8 NOV sailing) and saw you had been on Reflection last year. Wondering what you thought of that ship compared to Getaway? We are booked in a Concierge room and couldn't get over how much less it was than Haven.

Thanks,

Bill

[dexddd]

Patrick,

Hope you still check this occasionally. I was reading posts for Celebrity Reflection (we are going on the 8 NOV sailing) and saw you had been on Reflection last year. Wondering what you thought of that ship compared to Getaway? We are booked in a Concierge room and couldn't get over how much less it was than Haven.

Thanks,

Bill

 

Looks like you are going on Celebrity this year? I've been doing some looking at them and it looks like Celebrity is adding things for their suites starting next year I think. Things like a restaurant similar to Cagneys for suite guests and other perks based upon suite booked.

[ee1999]

Looks like you are going on Celebrity this year? I've been doing some looking at them and it looks like Celebrity is adding things for their suites starting next year I think. Things like a restaurant similar to Cagneys for suite guests and other perks based upon suite booked.

 

Yes, Celebrity Reflection 8 Nov 2014. We got a price on a concierge cabin at less than half of the Haven cabins. I know there are many differences between NCL Haven and Celebrity Concierge, but we didn't feel that Haven was a good fit for us. The concierge sounded like the upgraded services minus the Haven area and restaurant. We'll see and compare.

[miataman19]

Yes, Celebrity Reflection 8 Nov 2014. We got a price on a concierge cabin at less than half of the Haven cabins. I know there are many differences between NCL Haven and Celebrity Concierge, but we didn't feel that Haven was a good fit for us. The concierge sounded like the upgraded services minus the Haven area and restaurant. We'll see and compare.

 

Hey Bill. Yes we did sail Reflection in March 2013. Concierge class Aft cabin # 1222. Both ships are great but totally different vibe's. Reflection subdued, Getaway more party. That's of course if your not in The Haven. One thing I would recommend is Celebrity's dinning package. The food in Reflections specialty restaurants was the best we've had. Only QE2 was comparable. Breakfast on The Porch and dinner at the best restaurant afloat, Murano. #3 in my book right behind Spiaggia in Chicago and Victoria & Albert's at The Disney Grand Floridian. Qsine is pretty cool too. I did a review of the dinning program. It's on these boards somewhere. Or just search my posts.:D

 

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Edited July 22, 2014 by miataman19

[ee1999]

Hey Bill. Yes we did sail Reflection in March 2013. Concierge class Aft cabin # 1222. Both ships are great but totally different vibe's. Reflection subdued, Getaway more party. That's of course if your not in The Haven. One thing I would recommend is Celebrity's dinning package. The food in Reflections specialty restaurants was the best we've had. Only QE2 was comparable. Breakfast on The Porch and dinner at the best restaurant afloat, Murano. #3 in my book right behind Spiaggia in Chicago and Victoria & Albert's at The Disney Grand Floridian. Qsine is pretty cool too. I did a review of the dinning program. It's on these boards somewhere. Or just search my posts.:D

 

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Enjoyed your review of the dining. We're still contemplating the dining package. Erin is set on MDR strictly, hopefully I can chafe her mind.

 

How did you feel the concierge class on Celebrity compares to butler and concierge on NCL (minus the obvious Haven area and restaurant)?

[miataman19]

Enjoyed your review of the dining. We're still contemplating the dining package. Erin is set on MDR strictly, hopefully I can chafe her mind.

How did you feel the concierge class on Celebrity compares to butler and concierge on NCL (minus the obvious Haven area and restaurant)?

Bill, As I recall there is no butler service for Concierge Class cabins. Only Suite passengers get a butler. The actual concierge is not anywhere near the service of the concierge on Getaway. Its basically someone at the Guest Services desk (We used them once to change a reservation from Tuscan Grill to Murano). Here is a link to Celebrity's site giving the exact extras for your cabin. http://www.celebritycruises.com/onboard-celebrity/staterooms-concierge-class-stateroom

[alishac]

Enjoyed your review of the dining. We're still contemplating the dining package. Erin is set on MDR strictly, hopefully I can chafe her mind.

 

How did you feel the concierge class on Celebrity compares to butler and concierge on NCL (minus the obvious Haven area and restaurant)?

 

I've been on both the Reflection and Getaway in the Haven, and there is no comparison between the Haven and concierge class on Reflection. Concierge cabins are basically the same as staying in a regular balcony cabin except that you get daily canapes (that aren't that great). If you're looking for something comparable to the Haven you probably want to look at either an Aqua Class cabin or suite.

 

That being said, the Reflection is my favorite ship and sailing her comes second only to staying in the Haven on the Getaway, which for me was an amazing experience.

[ee1999]

I've been on both the Reflection and Getaway in the Haven, and there is no comparison between the Haven and concierge class on Reflection. Concierge cabins are basically the same as staying in a regular balcony cabin except that you get daily canapes (that aren't that great). If you're looking for something comparable to the Haven you probably want to look at either an Aqua Class cabin or suite.

 

That being said, the Reflection is my favorite ship and sailing her comes second only to staying in the Haven on the Getaway, which for me was an amazing experience.

 

 

Unfortunately, I didn't see the big deal about the Haven on Getaway. Our room steward, Randolf, was amazing in the Haven. Aside from him, our butler brought snacks once a day and the concierge was all but useless. I definitely didn't see what I would consider even close to the return on investment I would expect. The Haven restaurant was nice, but easily replaced with UDP.

 

I would say the Haven is great for people vocal in their desires. If you're not you get slightly better amenities than any other passenger at inflated prices.

 

I know there are masses who rave about Haven and I think if you're able give it a try, just wasn't for us. My wife now is in no hurry to go back on Getaway. I believe in large part because of the Haven vibe and experience.

 

All that to say it seems like what concierge class on Celebrity is described as is what we received in Haven (minus the courtyard area which we did not like at all). I'm glad you enjoyed Reflection. We haven't been on a Celebrity in many years. I know it's a touchy subject, but we're also happy to see Celebrity is smoke-free inside.

 

 

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[Let'sGoTribe]

Frasier Season 4 Episode 4: A Crane's Critique

 

Most of ship's amenities sort of ran together so I'll cover them as much as I remember in one post.

 

Bars:

Like Frasier and Niles meeting T.H. Houghton that's how it was when I met Bong. We went to the Mojito Bar on deck 8 many, many, many (you get the point we had the drink package) times. It was always great and drew a very fun crowd. We never went to the outside portion of the bar. Inside at nights there was usually some live music. We really enjoyed the latin group and Jim Long. If you decide to drink here you have to understand their big drinks are mojitos and they take time. The whole group of bartenders here are entertaining. The first time there we saw this bartender balancing drinks on his head and pouring them. About our 3rd night there the same bartender was serving us and after talking to him I while I realized I was in the presence of NCL royalty and it was Bong. I should have known he comes by his reputation honestly. Know what cows drink or he may have to cut you off! He tells jokes, does magic, and puts his personal touch on all the drinks. The rest of the bartenders there are great, but Bong is one of a kind. I don't really drink much and enjoy the foo-foo drinks more. I really enjoyed mudslides. A cheap way for me to drink no-calorie chocolate shakes. Erin likes a little more alcohol and drank mojitos. The raspberry guava and the pineapple coconut were her favorites.

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The other bar we enjoyed was Spice H20. I believe the bartender there was Danny Fernandes. The mango meltdown is awesome at this bar. It is a combination strawberry and mango daiquiri. Spice was just a nice place to go get away from the crowd, adult only and still get some sun. Erin also was able to check a moscow mule off of her bucket list of drinks.

 

We drank at a lot of other bars on ship, but these were our 2 favorites. The Haven bar was just too quiet for us. There is no entertainment there and it seemed like an airport bar to us.

 

Dining:

 

When we were on Epic we ate at specialty restaurants every night. Thinking this would be the same we purchased the dining package. I already reviewed Cagney's, a huge disappointment for us. I wish the service and food was better because my favorite thing is a great steak.

 

Teppanyaki was excellent. The presentation by the cook is what makes the meal specialty. They do all of the classic Japanese steak house stuff. They have great songs they sing and the presentation is a lot of fun. I had the shogun, chicken and beef and Erin had land and sea, beef and shrimp. Both selections were tasty and the fried rice was better than what we get at home. We ate at Teppanyaki twice and enjoyed both times. The first time we sat with 3 other groups of two all adults. The second time we ate with a family of 6. They were Mom, Dad, and 4 teenage or older daughters. All of the groups were fun and we had some great conversations. The second time we had a complimentary bottle of wine. I'll get into why in a little bit.

 

Moderno was worse than Cagney's. I try not to critiques solely on food because it is so subjective. The service we had at Moderno was the worse I have had in any restaurant land or sea. The salad bar as most have said is excellent . They have a lot of unique items on the bar. Our waiter seemed to have way too many tables or just had no clue what he was doing. He asked us about drinks as we sat down and we both ordered drinks. After he asked 3 more times what we would like to drink about 45 minutes later we got drinks. It wasn't just us, every table beside us was sharing in the frustration. Most would flag down the maitre 'D to get what they needed. There was a theme with this guy that after the 3rd or 4th time you would ask him for something you would get it. We received some butter and bread almost an hour into our meal and the sauces for the meats just before he asked us about dessert. He was so busy running from table to table he would never stop to listen to our requests after asking us if we needing anything. I always look forward to lamb on a cruise ship, but I enjoy it with mint jelly. I asked for the mint jelly 3 times before he finally brought me out au jus. When he asked about dessert we declined it just wasn't worth it. I have never complained to management about service in my life, but when the Asst Maitre 'D Raluca Udrea asked how everything was as we were getting up to leave I unloaded. I explained to her in detail how frustrating this meal was and asked if perhaps they had given too many tables to each waiter. She apologized profusely and asked for my cabin member. I told her it was okay there was nothing she could do and she said no I want to give you a bottle of wine. I told her it wouldn't be necessary. I really didn't want anything. I just wanted her to know so she could take care of the service issue. Fast forward 2 nights later to Teppanyaki. The hostess as we are seated gives Erin a wine list and tells her she has a complimentary bottle of wine. When I asked why she told we it was from Raluca Udrea. I really thought that was very classy of her and it impressed me. She had to track us down to make the gesture. On any other cruise line I don't believe that would have happened.

 

Le Bistro is phenomenal. I can't say enough good things about this restaurant. We managed to eat there twice and each time was consistently exceptional. The service there was on par or better to the service we received in the Haven restaurant. The food was a better quality than the Haven imo. The first night there was a lady there with her teen daughter who was telling everyone that this was the first time in her daughter's life she was able to order a dessert in a restaurant. Her daughter had some sever allergies and one of the chefs came out to walk her through the dessert menu to find a suitable option. I found this to be true throughout the restaurants. They were very concerned with allergies and checked constantly. I had the same meal both nights at Le Bistro the filet. Erin had the salmon one night and swordfish the next.

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Haven Restaurant was on par with the better specialty restaurants. The service was impeccable and friendly. Most of the time we had Esther as our server. This was her last trip before her vacation. She would get you anything from anywhere. She knew Erin liked the pretzel rolls so she would get those brought in from the buffet. We mixed and matched sides and main courses on the menu with no problem. I just have to say again that the food is served hot, not warm. The filet in the Haven is large and good. They have excellent burgers for lunch. It was so nice to have this option especially for breakfast and lunch. It was a high quality sit-down meal that didn't take any longer than going to the buffet.

 

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The casino was large, but I don't think as well laid out as the casino on Epic. The table dealers were all friendly. Nothing worse than losing your money and dealing with a stone faced dealer. They all seemed genuinely happy when you were winning and get to know your name quickly.

 

The blackjack tournaments were a different format than I'm use to. Instead of each day tournament being a stand alone with a winner each day, there's is a 3 sea day format with a final table at the end. The prize was $500 no matter how much they earned for the week. Just from my experiences on RCCL that is very low. The entry fee was reasonable though at $15 so I played 1 time each day. One day I convinced Erin to play the tournament with me. I apologize to the other 4 people at the table. On the first hand some crazy lady stood on a soft 5 against the dealer's 4, we'll call her Erin. Just to show you what a good crowd we had they all laughed and thought it was hilarious. I ended up the week almost dead even, I think up like $50 for blackjack.

 

Erin plays slots so we both purchased one of the $25 slot play coupons prior to boarding. They were very easy to use and the casino host gives you a cheat sheet on how to use the credits. Erin is very lucky when it comes to gambling. She played 3 machines Skeeball, Stinkin' Rich, and Pirates and managers to hit small jackpots on each almost every time she played. She will play about 5 pulls on a machine if it doesn't win and will pull one time after a big win before quitting. She managed to win about $500 over the first 6 days. The only machine she waited until day 7 for was Deal or No Deal. She lost about $80 waiting for the deal time to come and finally was able to pick a case. She turned down the first 3 deals. On the third deal the other person playing took the deal leaving only her. She was trying to decide if she should take the fourth deal when time ran out and it was automatically no deal. Turns out she had the winning case and pulled out a win for $100 more than she had bet. So on our $50 investment she won about $600. We decided not to play anymore that night and go home with a win.

 

I have really enjoyed your review. The dailies are very helpful in the planning of our trip. We are sailing on the Getaway on 11/29.

 

You mentioned $25 slot coupons that you purchased prior to boarding. Did you purchase them online? If so, I have been unable to find them on the NCL site. Please point me in the right direction.

 

Thank you so much!

[cmdchiefthom]

Pete,

Glad to hear you're enjoying the review. Congratulations on your retirement and thank you for your service! If I knew how good teaching JROTC was I would have retired sooner!:D

Cpt. Bob is a blast. Sit up front and don't worry about bringing shoes. You put them in a bin as soon as you board the boat and don't see them again until you dock.

You'll love the casino on Getaway, one of the friendliest group of dealers we've ever run into. We loved Getaway, just wouldn't do Haven again.

Have fun,

Bill

 

I'm amazed that after all the time I've spent on these boards that suddenly, in a review of the next ship I'll be cruising aboard, I run in to two military guys who also teach JROTC. Its a small board!!! I gave them 26 on active duty, 19 in the classroom and finally took the suit off for good in June of '13 after 45 years. Didn't know what to wear for the first few months, but it was summer, and I have a pool, enough said.

 

Thank you both for your service to our country, and especially for the service to your cadets!;) Maybe we'll run into each other somewhere at sea.:)

[ee1999]

I'm amazed that after all the time I've spent on these boards that suddenly, in a review of the next ship I'll be cruising aboard, I run in to two military guys who also teach JROTC. Its a small board!!! I gave them 26 on active duty, 19 in the classroom and finally took the suit off for good in June of '13 after 45 years. Didn't know what to wear for the first few months, but it was summer, and I have a pool, enough said.

 

Thank you both for your service to our country, and especially for the service to your cadets!;) Maybe we'll run into each other somewhere at sea.:)

Thom,

The military brotherhood definitely makes the world seem smaller. Thank you for your service. Now that you're truly retired you get to enjoy Veteran's Day!

 

I really enjoyed Getaway, don't forget to do the ROPES course. We have about 6 guys in our JROTC district that cruise together at times.

Bill

[kellkell]

What is the dress code at the Haven restaurant?

[happy cruzin]

What is the dress code at the Haven restaurant?

 

 

Dinner I've done jeans/slacks and dressy sweaters - DH usually does dockers and a polo or collared shirt.

 

Breakfast and lunch are casual - shorts are ok but no swimsuits.

 

 

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[kellkell]

Dinner I've done jeans/slacks and dressy sweaters - DH usually does dockers and a polo or collared shirt.

 

Breakfast and lunch are casual - shorts are ok but no swimsuits.

 

 

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thanks