Where will my money go?

[Something fun!]

He was on a long (UK Bank Holiday) weekend. Thanks. Sometimes sad but never lonely.

 

 

 

I'm back, and would like to thank everybody for their valued input.

 

 

 

not a troll, haven't read the nickel & Diming thread so can't comment.

 

 

 

I will pack a first aid kit. Thanks.

 

 

Thanks again to everybody who has offered me some constructive advice.

 

We do have UBP (we like a drink)

We have paid DSC (gratuities)

I've done my research and don't think we'll need any NCL excursions

We will eat at the speciality restaurants. Just not every night. (might look at Speciality Dining Package once on board)

I won't buy photos

I will use the casino occasionally - cash only.

 

:D

 

Regarding the photographers, they are actually very good. If you haven't taken any nice, formal photos recently, it is a great opportunity as they have various backdrops and props (benches, chairs, columns, etc.) each evening and will do a free mini photo session.

 

Obviously a seasoned cruiser would not need to partake, but it can be a special occasion otherwise.:)

[newmexicoNita]

That is just one person's opinion.

 

It's been years since I've had a meal in the MDR of any cruise line that is anywhere near as good as the meals in Le Bistro or Cagneys. If they really were "the same food", you wouldn't need to make reservations because no one would be paying the upcharge to go in.

 

If you do decide you want a treat, a truly good meal, the specialty restaurants are worth it. In my opinion.

Agree with you. Where in the world did someone get the idea the food in the specialty dining rooms are the same as in the main dining rooms?

[ayjayoh21]

Another question.

 

We have friends travelling at the same time - different deck. Not a problem, but I seem to remember reading somewhere that calls between suites are charged ($9.99 sticks in my mind). Is this correct?

[biker@sea]

Another question.

 

We have friends travelling at the same time - different deck. Not a problem, but I seem to remember reading somewhere that calls between suites are charged ($9.99 sticks in my mind). Is this correct?

 

 

No.

 

.

[BaWBarmy]

Another question.

 

We have friends travelling at the same time - different deck. Not a problem, but I seem to remember reading somewhere that calls between suites are charged ($9.99 sticks in my mind). Is this correct?

 

No.

 

If you are using iConcierge on your mobile then it will cost each of you to have that facility included but just using the in cabin phones is free when phoning to another suite.

 

If you were on a UK Bank Holiday I'm guessing you booked Premium All inclusive. This means you can ignore all this stuff about the DSC (included in your fare) or gratuities on the UBP (included in your fare).

 

Photos are expensive BUT as a memento of your first cruise its worth buying one.

 

The food in the MDR isn't quite as good as the Speciality Dining but it's more than edible as is the stuff from the Buffet.

 

There are usually plenty of free things to do around the ship during the day and the theatre shows are free at night.

 

You have the UBP just make sure your drinks stay under $15 per drink. This is the only real 'trap' I can think of. Order glasses of wine at dinner rather than bottles.

 

Don't bother with the ships WiFi because it's bloody expensive. If you're cruising in Europe then your phone will work as normal once you are in port. When at sea just turn off the WiFi and turn on Aeroplane Mode.

 

Don't commit yourself to any Cruise Next Certificates unless you are absolutely sure you want to cruise with NCL again within the next four years. We always get some because we just absolutely love cruising.

 

I hope you really enjoy your cruise.

[DarkJedi]

Good evening all

 

First day as a member

First ever cruise in a couple of weeks

First post

First questions

 

I've read a lot of reports (on various websites) about the on-board efforts by NCL staff to lighten your wallet during your cruise.

 

I just wanted to know what it is that costs, any traps to avoid and how best to prevent a hefty bill at the end of the cruise.

 

Thanks in advance

 

 

Just took a 21 day cruise on the NCL Jewel.

 

Pre-paid service charges.

Pre-paid for additional specialty dining.

Used the fill a bag for $19.95 laundry option twice.

Took two shore excursions, $144.00 each.

Purchased a memory card from the photo studio, $89.95.

Nothing hidden, no surprises.

[BostonGal35]

plenty to do that is free. 2 or 3 MDRs are free to eat, OSheehans is free, buffet is free. if you book free at sea and pick booze, only drink what's on package and its free (and there is plenty on the package). dont eat at specialities, unless you get a pack of meals as prt of free at sea. avoid casino, games like deal or no deal, bingo.

[BostonGal35]

Agree with you. Where in the world did someone get the idea the food in the specialty dining rooms are the same as in the main dining rooms?

 

 

the MDR chicken parmesan is IDENTICAL to the one you pay for in LaCucina. we complained about this and we were literally told by the dining manager that you pay not for the food but the atmosphere at specialties. i was like, what?!?

[amelia3171]

You don’t have to spend a cent on board if you don’t want to. On the Epic last year & booked again for this October and never felt even for a moment anyone was trying to get me to spend money.

 

We ended up with a $1.07 charge on our account, no idea what it was and too wee to bothering asking.

 

 

I just read a review on the review pages, someone complaining at the cost of bottled water to clean their teeth! I grew up in Scotland and now live in Ireland, our tap water is superb, and the water on the ship was just as drinkable, and obviously fine for teeth cleaning. My understanding is that the aquafina sold in board is just tap water in bottles.

[Something fun!]

The minibar items in the fridge are not included in the UBP. Ask your steward to remove them and replace with a free pitcher of ice water. You can also use your UBP to restock it with some beers.