Live/Nautica: Greece, Holy Lands, Egypt, Dubai; Terry/Pix’s

[TLCOhio]

20 hours ago, irisbax3 said:

Terry, thanks so very much for this wonderful review and superb visuals.  I am going on a land tour to Egypt in March and feel very lucky that I ran across your review with the photos of that area.  Also, we will be on O's Nautica in Dec. for a 30 day cruise from Dubai to Cape Town so I'm going to follow along on your review of your South Africa/Botswana-Africa trip.   I do have one question.  I understand that Nautica is scheduled for dry dock after my Dec. 7, 2019 to Jan. 6, 2020 cruise.  What was the condition of the ship?  Was it ship shape or in need of some TLC? Thanks, again for taking so much of your time in posting these wonderful reviews.

An avid follower,   Iris

 

Greatly appreciate, Iris, your nice comments and very good follow-up question.  For our twenty days on the Nautica late last year, we did not notice and/or see anything that I would call "worn", dated and/or neglected, etc.  All seemed to be very "ship-shape"!!!   Looking good on the ship, in the rooms, etc.  From what we have been told and read, this re-do is partly a "marketing plan" to give the Oceania ships a little more of a "contemporary" look and style seeking to appeal to a younger audience.  But, nothing too modern or extreme!!  Just a little more of a 21st Century approach with the colors and styles for the decor, furnishings, etc.  It's a system-wide upgrade, not just something for the Nautica.

 

Don't be shy.  Keep up the great questions.  Happy to respond for any other info needs.  

 

In the Florida Keys right now to escape the bad, bad winter cold/snow storm coming down from Canada that will be hitting the Midwest and NE.  Below is how the pool area looks at our Key Largo resort setting.  Better than snow and ice!! 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling for "down under” wonders. Exciting visuals with key highlights.  On page 15, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 217,486 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

 

My camera is still working well.  Here is a visual from last evening at the Playa Largo Autograph by Marriott Resort.  Super blue skies now with plenty of sunshine.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see this picture larger/better!)

[Kinkajou]

Terry, I have a similar cruise booked for this October. I really enjoyed your photos. I may have missed it, but could you give me the name of the private tour companies that you used in Egypt and Jordan? Many thanks, Susan 

[TLCOhio]

On 1/31/2019 at 2:55 PM, Kinkajou said:

Terry, I have a similar cruise booked for this October. I really enjoyed your photos. I may have missed it, but could you give me the name of the private tour companies that you used in Egypt and Jordan? Many thanks, Susan 

 

Hi, Susan from Mississippi !  Appreciate your great comments and excellent follow-up question.   For Egypt, we used “Love Egypt Tours”.  You can find and contact them at their website of www.loveegypttours.net.

 

For Jordan, we used “Jordan Horizons”.  You can reach them at: 
https://www.jo-horizonstours.com/our-tours-section/private-tours-from-aqaba-port/

Or, send an e-mail to  jo.horizons@gmail.com.  

From our experiences, it super worked well in getting up at 6:30 am to depart Aqaba Port.  That allowed having the added time in order in the afternoon to also see Wadi Rum in addition to the superstar attraction of Petra.  Wadi Rum was like "frosting on the cake" for what we did in Jordan!!  Hopefully my earlier visuals document that wise choice by us.  After our Jordan tours and that long day, we had four sea-days to rest up and recover from these intense actives in Egypt and Jordan.  Push yourself!!  The "prize" is well worth it!!

 

Need more?  Don't be shy with any all questions, etc.    
 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 62,828 views:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

 

For those liking visual "eye candy", we are now at the Fort Lauderdale airport heading back from a wonderful week in the Florida Keys.  Below are a few pictures as "proof" or evidence for what we saw and did, including for at and near the Everglades, birds and animals seen, the water sunset, etc.  Look good?:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

 

[Kinkajou]

Wow, love the Key West photos—not a good time to be returning to Ohio. I am originally from Michigan and am happy not to be there in February. I really enjoyed following your cruise. Thank you for taking the time to send the tour information. We are looking forward to our cruise, going in the opposite direction from yours.

 

Susan

[want2go]

Soooo enjoyed your reviews!  And the pictures were outstanding.  So glad I somehow found my way here.  Helps me as I'm looking forward to a bucket list cruise to Israel.  Thank you for sharing!

 

[irisbax3]

Thanks so much for answering my question about the Nautica and for all the information and pictures. I'm a devoted TLCOhio follower. We're leaving for our Egypt trip on Sunday and your review and pictures have helped tremendously.

[gator50]

Terry, do you post to a blog outside of CC?

[TLCOhio]

14 hours ago, gator50 said:

Terry, do you post to a blog outside of CC?

 

Appreciate so much these great comments and follow-ups from Kinkajou, want2go, irisbax3 and gator50.  It's wonderful to hear about a "devoted TLCOhio follower", etc.  Look forward to hearing back from irisbax3 after your Egypt trip. 

 

For gator50, it's either good news or bad news, but I do not have a blog outside of these Cruise Critic boards.  Maybe someday in the future?  Maybe not?  Clearly a good reason to do such an outside posting is that live/blogs have a major downside.  The order, timing and flow with a live/blog is not a perfect way for posting.  In an ideals world, all would be posted in perfect, chronological order with an easy-to-use index at the start.  But, with many busy port schedules and so much activity on the ship, there are time limits.  Also on ships, at times, the Internet service is not always perfect and fast.  The plus side with a live/blog is being able to get interaction, suggestions, questions, etc., as you travel.  Do that "sharing" is part of the fun. 

 

Over this weekend, I am hoping to finish polishing up many more details about our first cruising experience with Oceania.  There were many, many positives.  BUT, I also have a number of suggestions and/or frustrations to express in a few areas.  Warts and all, I will be posting that summary soon.  Plus, a few more visuals.  As always, happy to hear any and all questions, info needs, etc.  

 

In additional, we are not less than four months until we depart in mid-July, for our first time, to be seeing Jasper/Banff, doing the Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, having three days in Vancouver, then sailing up to Alaska, doing a post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Just booked our on-ship dining reservations and we have made more of our various port excursions arrangements for Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, etc.  This sailing will be with Silversea on their very new Silver Muse ship. Should be fun and very interesting!!  Any one have good tips and suggestions for these scenic areas in Alaska, etc.?

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.!  Live/blog from early 2018, first adventure through SE Asia, stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before exploring all over Vietnam and Cambodia, seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 45,329 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474

[CintiPam]

Terry, I just spent the last two hours joyfully reading your entire thread and enjoying your visuals.  I am so grateful that posts were made here recently or I would have missed it entirely.  (I now only look at the CC boards a couple of months before I cruise, a result of what I decided was becoming an addiction a few years back.). 

 

As usual, you have whet my appetite for the world of new horizons. Your posts regarding your Norway adventures were so helpful to my planning (and anticipation) of our fabulous RT Amsterdam Azamara Norwegian cruise a few years ago.  Now your posts and visuals from Egypt and Jordan are adding to my anticipation of our upcoming late November three-week alumni trip to those countries.

 

As someone who only has cruised on Oceania and Azamara, I look forward to reading your opinions and suggestions regarding your shipboard experience.  

 

Best wishes from your close neighbor to the south.

[dani negreanu]

23 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

 

Any one have good tips and suggestions for these scenic areas in Alaska, etc.?

 

 

Hi Terry 😀,

 

Ketchikan -- I've done the Island Wings (with Michelle as the pilot) trip -- no words could describe the sheer beauty of the scenery from above.

Skagway -- the trip with Dyea Dave to the Emerald lake was amazing.

 

Enjoy !!

[TLCOhio]

18 hours ago, CintiPam said:

Terry, I just spent the last two hours joyfully reading your entire thread and enjoying your visuals.  I am so grateful that posts were made here recently or I would have missed it entirely.  (I now only look at the CC boards a couple of months before I cruise, a result of what I decided was becoming an addiction a few years back.). 

As usual, you have whet my appetite for the world of new horizons. Your posts regarding your Norway adventures were so helpful to my planning (and anticipation) of our fabulous RT Amsterdam Azamara Norwegian cruise a few years ago.  Now your posts and visuals from Egypt and Jordan are adding to my anticipation of our upcoming late November three-week alumni trip to those countries.

As someone who only has cruised on Oceania and Azamara, I look forward to reading your opinions and suggestions regarding your shipboard experience.  Best wishes from your close neighbor to the south.

 

Super wonderful to hear from Pam in Cincinnati, our "neighbor" to the south in Ohio.  Great to read your kind comments and that you have an upcoming trip to the Middle East.  Look forward to hearing your reactions, likes and specifics from traveling there.  

 

Below starts part one of my detailed comments as relates to Oceania, etc.  Hope these items are of help.  More to come!!  Plus, some suggestions and areas for improvement.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

OCEANIA PLUSES, SURPRISES, POSITIVES, LOVES, TIPS, etc. (part one):

1. Oceania staff: After doing eleven different cruises on six different lines, we expected the staff with Oceania to be good or better.  BUT, our actual experiences on this 20-day Oceania Nautica sailing were much, much above any reasonable or normal expectations.  For our two cabin staff members and in the dining areas, the crew did not just seem or merely “act happy”.  But, they were genuinely so positive and helpful that it added up to be a major plus on this first sailing with Oceania.  The Captain during a Q&A session discussed their staff training, promotions from within policy and encouragements for the crew to aspire to the highest levels of service.  It’s true!!  Not just some company hype, spin and/or BS. Earlier on our live/blog, I posted a number of pictures of the excellent staff we encountered.  It was a big PLUS with the great staff that made our trip so much more enjoyable.  Most all of them were very experienced, helpful and so totally hard-working!!

 

2. Ship itinerary:  In trying Oceania for the first time, the main attraction was this great Athens to Dubai schedule that included two-day port stops in both Israel and Egypt.  Plus, this schedule offered so many very good and interesting other locations and potentials for those of us who enjoy history, culture, scenic locations, food, architecture, etc.  All worked well!!  With a smaller ship like the Nautica, they can visit some different and unique places in the world.  Cannot say enough about this long, but great schedule for us to be able to do our first visit in some of the world’s best and most special locations. AND, we accomplished these objectives all in one cruise, plus the opportunity to have added time prior in Greece and post-cruise to explore the fast-evolving United Arab Emirates.

 

3. Favorite “hide-away” location/Library:  For my interests, I really loved the library on the 10th floor of the Nautica.  It has very comfortable seating, offers a classic styling/setting, was close to our elevator bank and was never very busy or crowded.   This was especially great for me early in the mornings to allow my wife to sleep a little later and give me time to review pictures, do live/blog postings, etc.  Several times while there, the ship General Manager walked through and I was able to ask him some questions, gain added information, share my comments, etc. While I did not use the library for getting specific books, it seemed to have a fairly large and varied collection.  As others have mentioned, get there early for books to better satisfy your personal interests before their collection gets too picked over.

 

4. Speciality dining:  Which one was best? Toscana and Polo are both so fabulous with their classy settings, wide-ranging menus and nice staffing.  However, these specialty restaurants did not change their menus during our 20-day cruise.  Did that cause a problem?  No!  Why?  Each of these two menus are so big and the options are many!!  Clearly these locations need advanced reservations.  We were fortunate that our traveling companions, Amy and Milt, had a Penthouse Suite and those reservations can be made 75 days prior to sailing.  We made three reservations at each location stretched out over our long cruise.  Only one of the available reservation was later in the evening than when we desired.  Later on the ship, we were able to get that time adjusted and all worked very well.

 

5. Dining quality/times:  YES, the food with Oceania is very good, but it, however, can be challenging to avoid gaining too much “width” while on the ship.  Eating too much is another question for another day.  All, however, was not “perfect”, if that is possible with Oceania food.   I have some suggestions to be made in the next posting if the CEO of Oceania called and asked for my detailed ideas as to their menu options on a long cruise.  Nothing major.  Just sharing that food over a twenty-day cruise can be a little bit of a complex topic.  Among the “stars” are their breads and baked goods.  In the main dining room, having the dining timing flexibility is a major, very important plus for us.  Hate it on some ships that require you to fit and adjust to “their schedule” for doing either a fixed early OR late seating time.  We generally on this Nautica cruise dined in a location near the back of the ship in the MDR and had the same, excellent staff members serving us each time.  Worked so well!!  Over the 20 days, we dined in the MDR about 12 times.  Two of the evenings, we were off of the ship doing overnights in Jerusalem and Luxor/Egypt.  The other six times in the evenings, we were not in the MDR because of using the speciality dining venues.  We did not do any evening dining in the Terrace buffet area. In the buffet, they offered some interesting special nights, but we were very happy with the main dining area and/or enjoyed being in the speciality areas.  Plus, after using the buffet for most breakfasts and lunches, it was good have more variety of location in the evening.

 

6. Terrace dining:  For most breakfasts or lunches, we headed to the Terrace dining area.  Worked very well.  At times, however the Terrace would get fairly crowded and super busy.  But we tried to adjust accordingly.  Ideally, there would be more room there in the Terrace.  While using the Terrace, our super favorite was to enjoy our meals while out on the patio.  Super location and views.  And, it got us away from the “congestion” in the main parts of Terrace interiors.  Great fun, fresh air and sights being out there on this open-air area.  There was decent variety through this buffet, but at times, I would have desired a little more for “creative options” of with the various desserts.  But, we did not starve or go hungry.   

 

7. Entertainment:  Overall, most do not rate Oceania that high for entertainment.  That’s understandable given that this is a smaller ship and you cannot economically support doing big production shows as done on ship with three to five thousand passengers.  But, overall, there was a decent range of evening programs/options and I enjoyed, mostly, these various offerings.  The five young singers/dancers had good spirit and energy, plus reasonable talents.  The Cruise Director, as I had mentioned earlier on the live/blog, did a very good job, was very active around the ship, etc.  Liked her fun Aussie style, energy, talent and activities.   

 

8. Ship speakers?:   As detailed earlier on this live/blog, the two ship speakers on the ship for this type of long journey worked very well.  Both were very approachable, interesting, skilled, knowledgable, etc.  They had presentation with nice visuals and video clips that aided so much in understanding these historic and significant areas that we were visiting.  On this cruise, these two speakers were major pluses!!

 

9. Surprise location/stop?:  Petra/Jordan was our biggest surprise location/stop.  We knew in advance that Jerusalem and Egypt/Luxor would be super major and impressive.  They were!!  And, much more!!!  But in Jordan, we were blown away to be riding on the “Silk Road” or King’s Highway in order to reach Petra.  Yes, I mean that “Silk Road” known as so significant in ancient history of connecting the East and the West.  Plus, then in Jordan to do Wadi Rum, etc., added to the amazement for this exotic region.

 

10. Great, Skilled Captain:  Our Nautica Captain was very impressive, especially in hearing when he was doing a wide-ranging and interesting Q&A (question and answer) session for us as passenger during our sailing down the Red Sea.  Also, running into him and talking with him during our overnight in Dubai was fascinating as he was coming back from doing a bike ride during this final stop.  I felt very comfortable that this Captain was a strong, capable leader who communicated well and understood the passenger needs/interests.

 

Here are a few additional Nautica visuals.  First, in our room, I liked these soaps and other items with the great Italian-brand connection.  Not sure if all rooms had this brand.  We did as being in a Concierge cabin.  Second is the wonderful Terrance outdoor dining area that we super loved for many nice breakfasts and lunches!!  Yes, you can see a couple children in that one picture.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

Here is a little sample of the Waves menu options offered during our Nautica sailing.  Tasted good in a nice setting.  But, it could get a little crowded and confused at times there during busy sea days.  Second is an example that hand sanitation was pushed and justifiably encouraged for us while on the Nautica.:

 

[TLCOhio]

2 hours ago, dani negreanu said:

Hi Terry 😀,  Ketchikan -- I've done the Island Wings (with Michelle as the pilot) trip -- no words could describe the sheer beauty of the scenery from above.

Skagway -- the trip with Dyea Dave to the Emerald lake was amazing.   Enjoy !!

 

Appreciate these above great tips and this follow-up from Dani in Israel.  Very helpful for our planning and prep in doing our first visiting in Alaska and to see these scenic parts of western Canada.  Keep up the great ideas and suggestions for our late July and early August "adventure".  For Dani, we super loved our first visit to your country, especially the two days in and around Jerusalem.  Very amazing!!

 

Below is part two of my various comments, reactions regarding Oceania and the Nautica.  Hope these are of help.  Happy to share more and/or answer any questions.  Then, a little later today, I will be offerings some of my suggestions and ideas for change/improvement.  There is always room to make changes and do certain areas in a little better manner.  

 

Below is the connection to the live/blog that Pam mentioned previously. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 234,507 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

 

OCEANIA PLUSES, SURPRISES, POSITIVES, LOVES, TIPS, etc. (part two):

11. Elevators:  Worked well!!  There was a reasonable number available in both parts of the Nautica.  No major challenges with long waits, floors not being marked well, etc.

 

12. Pool:  Given the combination of busy port schedules and/or whether that it was not that hot during most of the cruise, we did not use this area that much.  But, the pool and seat seemed good enough if that was your interest.  It was always nice to walk through, above or around the pool area.  That gives off a nice “vibe” for what cruise ship resorts are all about in offering.

 

13. Air travel arrangements:  Our coach air arrangements were included with our cruise cost package.  We also paid a little more to be able to do some adjustments in order to get the exact dates, airlines, timings, etc., that we desired.  That worked well for us, even if it  cost a little more.  And, it was worth it to be able to tie in with American Airlines where we would get the added Frequent Flyer miles, plus pay to AA a little additional to get the extended leg room seats.  We did not just take what was offered for air flights.  You can and should do added time before and after your cruise’s timing, plus customize your flight to be fit your personal interests.

 

14. Horizons Lounge:  For afternoon tea, especially on sea days, this was an excellent setting.  What was not to like with the live music, including their string quartet, nice food and service, etc.?  We watched the narrated and interesting passage through Suez Canal from this location.  The string quartet also played each night in the great hall area that was enjoyable to sample as we pass through that part of the ship.

 

15. Passengers on-board: As expected, the largest group was from the United States, but there was a sizable number from China and Asia.  We were surprised to see that wider diversity on this cruise.  A few times, some in these larger groups from Asia got a little “excited” in enjoying themselves.  That could be a little “distracting” in the main dining room, but we all adjusted accordingly.

 

16. Concierge cabin: Is it worth it?  Maybe?  Maybe not? Much depends on your budget flexibility, what you can afford, etc.  One of the favorites that we gained was the three free bags of laundry.  On a twenty-day cruise, that was very helpful!!   The spa terrace on the R ships is available to concierge category passengers.  We did not use this feature that much, but it was an option and is a nice area.  Maybe with Concierge we had better, more experienced cabin staffing.  Do not know if that is actually true, but we were super pleased with our two cabin stewards.   

 

17. Weather/timing/fellow passengers: Great timing for this part of the world.  Not too hot or excessively cool here by choosing to cruise at this time of the year in the Middle East.  In the summers, it would be rather too, too warm for many of these countries.  At this time of the year and for this long of a cruise, the passengers are older, mostly retired and few children were seen.  Those demographics made us seem just like “middle-agers”!!   Not older folks.  Nice comparison?

 

18. Internet: It's a ship at sea. It's never going to be super fast and perfect like at home or work as if with true, high-speed wiring. BUT, overall, things worked reasonably well for my personal needs.  I did much on the web, including for posting the live/blog, surfing news stories and doing many picture up-loadings.  Yes, for early mornings and some later evenings, the Internet might work a little better.  At most locations around on the ship, the wireless seemed to work fairly well.  A couple of times, there was a challenge logging on as I had not previously logged out properly.  That was easy to solve.  As a part of our OLife package, we had unlimited web access, but we did not need or desire to pay more for being able to do the higher-speed video connections.  With this regular Internet on the ship, you cannot do streaming video.  It would be nice to have that higher level of access, but it is not worth if, for us, to pay that extra up-charge.  As this was the college football season when on this sailing, we were able to follow along via ESPN and a couple of different Ohio newspaper to get nearly real-time updates for key games, including Ohio State vs. Michigan and the Big Ten Championship.  Our team won both!!  That made it much more fun for following along!!

 

19. Other Angles/Views:  From our very experienced travel agent, she had not previously sailed with Oceania.  She just completed in the past month being on the Oceania with a sister ship to our Nautica in the South Pacific.  She sailed on the Regatta, also an R-class cruise ship, that was built in 1998.  Among her first impressions and summary likes/comments: “Fresh berries and freshly-squeezed orange juice daily.  All the lobster you can eat in many different recipes including the best lobster mac and cheese.  Ship-made sorbet and ice cream daily, about 10 different flavors including macadamia, rocky road and pear tart.  All the Wagu and Angus beef you want, from hamburgs to filet mignon and beef Wellington.  All the premium bottled waters you can drink, including Perrier and San Pelligrino.  Milk shakes and malts made to order, frothy and just like the old  days in a soda fountain.  Drinks and wine, however, are somewhat expensive!  A special menu only for selecting Balsamic vinegars and Italian olive oils.  A few more clues: Takes 13 laps to walk a mile.  Their ‘older’ ships are classics in their time, with furnishings that antiquers love (fireplaces and cushy chairs, painted recessed ceilings and gilt framed paintings on the walls, oriental-style carpets, etc.) are being replaced with silver and aqua tones, lighter and brighter interiors.”

 

From the closing staff recognition program, this first picture shows the very capable General Manager speaking with the Cruise Director at his immediate left, plus a couple of the performers, etc.  The second visual shows more of the crew with the CD talking.  Well-deserved recognition for the hard-working staff!!:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

Here is view of the pool from the upper level vantage point.  Nice and sunny this day, but this area was not too crowded.:

[TLCOhio]

Here is my summary for some “hits-and-misses” and/or ideas/suggestions for improvements that Oceania could consider or do in the future.  This is not a huge or long listing, but I just wanted to share that there are always opportunities for changes and upgrades to consider by management.   

 

NEEDING ATTENTION, IMPROVEMENTS, CHANGES?:

1. Excursions/Pricings?: These offerings tended to be high in price, plus not always the best in “value” compared to doing private tours.   We did have the Olife excursion option of four “free” tours each.  These were “OK”, somewhat and maybe??!!  One tour day was very marginal and we were fortunately able to skip the last scheduled Oceania tour in Muscat, Oman, and do a much better private excursion.  I realize that some local tours are limited by what is available to Oceania in each port.  It is not totally under their control.  But, overall their pricing is high and lacking in value.   Fortunately in traveling with another couple and with advance research/planning, we did private tours prior to our cruise in Athens, plus in Jerusalem and Luxor overnight, for Petra and Dubai/Abu Dhabi, etc.  These private tours were super and made such a positive contrast to what Oceania offered/provided.

 

2. Menu variety?:  In the Grand Dining Room, the biggest complaint was that the choices for the first two courses before the main entrees got rather old and very repetitive.  There was a serious need for more creative and wider options with this initial part of their GDR menus.  Yes, we were on a twenty-day cruise and we did not expect a “totally new” menu for each of these different evenings.  BUT, Oceania could do much better as to their menu offerings with those first two evening dining choices.

 

3. Lobster bisque?:  In both the Polo speciality dining and main dining rooms, they offered what they called a “lobster bisque”.  But, there was not much lobster taste.  Sorry! It seemed more like just a general seafood soup with a darker color.  Maybe you could call it “OK”, but I think that Oceania could and should aim to do better.  After you have had good lobster bisque, having a weak “knock-off” is not nearly as enjoyable.

 

4. Wine on board?:  On this cruise, we knew that wines and alcoholic drinks would be extra.  We were prepared accordingly.  BUT, on the ship, the total cost for a glass of wine was not exactly cheap, especially after the service fee of 18% was piled on top of the base price of $10-12.  We brought on to the ship a couple of bottles of wine purchased prior to boarding and paid the $25 corkage fee to have it served in the dining room.  That worked out OK.  The staff was very good when we ordered a bottle, used about half of it on the first evening and then would finished the bottle the next night.  Fortunately, we are not big drinkers and we made it all work out.  If you are not carefully, however, your beer, wine and liquor tab could escalate up . . . and UP, quickly!  You will have fun drinking in that manner, but do not be surprised by the bill when you get at the end of your cruise.  As background, if you purchased a package for beer, wine and liquor beverages, it would run $40 per day per person for the basic quality level.  To move up to the better or “Prestige” stuff, it costs $60 per day per person.  With these packages, the gratuity is included.  Given the number of busy port days and/or doing a couple of days off of the ship doing overnights, the “value” did not work for us.  You had to buy these packages for every day of the cruise.  You could not selectively pick it for just a few of the more sea-day focused dates on the schedule.

 

5. Excursion protocol?:  There was confusion, especially as we were seeking to exit the ship at Haifa in order to do our private tour for the overnight in Jerusalem.  The reception desk kept insisting that we could not depart in the morning until ALL of the ship tours had exited.  Then, they tried to blame it on the Israel shore officials.  That was not the case.  The ship General Manager later confirmed that we were given incorrect information and that it delayed our departure from the ship in this highly-important port stop.

 

6. Room/bath sizing?: Our basic balcony room (even as a Concierge cabin) on this ship was a little smaller than what we have previously done with Silversea, Celebrity, etc.  The balcony and large glass opening helped much to give a little better sense of “room” and space.  During this 20-day cruise, we survived!!??  BUT, the room can get a little challenged at times, especially when two people are preparing in the evenings for dinner.  The old joke in the shower is that you can put the liquid soap on the wall and then just rotated your body around.  This bath is tight and the shower curtin set-up is not the best.  Sorry to be blunt, but it is true.   On this age of this R-class ship, larger cabin and baths were not viewed at the time of design and construction as a priority.  Times have changed, but this is not a “fix” that be changed or done differently now.  Fortunately, being on a smaller ship, you can escape fairly easily to certain more roomy public areas on the ship and have options to stretch out with some more or added comfort.  Yes, we could have spent a decent amount more for a Penthouse Suite, etc.  BUT, that was not affordable given our personal priority for doing shore excursion in a first-class, immersion manner. 

 

7. Terrace Cafe being busy/crowded?:  As mentioned earlier, we mainly used the Terrace on the ninth floor for breakfast and lunch.  It was fairly fast and easy.  But you did feel a little crowded during certain peak lunch and breakfast periods.  This area and the set-up was a little narrow and it felt challenged/competitive at times.  This was especially true if the weather/wind outside made setting on the back, open patio deck not possible.  Some of the evening buffet offerings seemed to be creatively themed and interestingly planned.  Several sounded interesting, but we did not have the time to try.  Or, we just got very “comfortable” in using the Grand Dining Room and liking that option/service best?

 

8. Advertising/sales pitches?:  It’s been worse (such as on the Princess ship going through the Panama Canal), but it is still frustrating to see too many sales advertising pitches stuffed into the “Currents” daily activities summary.  And, the tables up in the main lobby for their “Special Sales” got a little tiring.  Be forced to think about drink specials, jewelry sales, spa treatments, etc., are not my prime or secondary interest for a vacation/escape.  Oceania was not, overall, too bad in this area.  BUT, personally, I would like these “distractions” be dieted down to a big zero.

 

A final wrap-up for additional tips and ideas will be posted next. Hope this is not too much information, but I wanted to be detailed and specific. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling for "down under” wonders. Exciting visuals with key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 210,471 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

 

As a refresher, here is a map from Oceania that illustrates our various port stops on this twenty day cruise on the Nautica.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

Here are four pages of the "CURRENTS" daily summary from our first full sailing day on the Oceania Nautica.  A cover on the second day is also shown below.  You will notice on the front, they have the next day's expected weather, plus a highlight for the next evening's entertainment program.  Most days, the front focuses on the next port destination and its key history/highlights, etc.   On the third page is a "plug" for the next evening's entertainment offering.  On the fourth page is a summary on hours/opening for the next day, plus a highlight for the next day's drink special, plus a listing at the bottom of the page for the locations that day for each of the other five Oceania ships.:

 

 

 

 

Edited March 31, 2019 by TLCOhio

[TLCOhio]

Below is part four from my detailed Nautica summary.  Northing major in the positive or negative categories.  Just sharing various ideas and options to consider.    

 

OTHER, MISC. ITEMS:

1. Personalizing your cabin:   We brought along 8x12” pictures of our two grandsons and put them up on the walls to keep those great memories fresh. On a 20-day cruise, you need to be organized and having good "personal" touches in your room that adds to the enjoyment.

 

2. Currents:  The ship's daily schedule and info sheet worked reasonably well, was colorful and mostly interesting with various port and ship background.  Of special interest was knowing the entertainment coming up for the next evening.

 

3. CPAP machine:  Yes, Oceania had distilled water available for use in my CPAP machine.  You need to let them know in advance.   Most cruise lines seem very good in understanding these "needs" for those of us with such CPAP machines.

 

4. Future booking: Yes, we considered doing a future booking with Oceania and getting a small, additional discount.  BUT, for personal interests, especially in the key January-February winter periods to escape the Midwest’s cold winters, there were not any major, must-do options available from Oceania.  Our top priority is to get the right/best itinerary for our personal interests. We are not just in “sailing for the sake of being on a boat”.  That’s nice, but not as high of a priority for us.

 

5. Private Tours?: Yes, our private tours made such a significant difference for key locations during this cruise.  This includes for Athens to Delphi, the famed historic site about two-and-a-half hours north of Athens; our two days/overnight in Jerusalem, the two days/overnight for Luxor/Egypt, our one exciting day in Jordan for Petra and Wadi Rum; doing the surprisingly wonderful options in Muscat/Oman and finally putting the “frosting on the cake” with our day and a half of private touring to sample Dubai and Abu Dhabi.  Why?  First, was price and value.  In many cases the costs for the four of us was cheaper than options offered by the ship for the “fun” of being slowed on a bus with 20-35 other people.  Second, it was all about quality.  We picked our private tours carefully and being with a good guide where you are having a “conversation” makes THE difference!!  Just being on a bus listening to a canned, memorized speech is not always that enlightening. Plus, having the schedule being our personal priorities is also super vital and rewarding!!  On private tours, you can also cut out those time-wasting “sales stops” at places doing the kick-backs to the tour operators who are bringing in the captive customers.

 

More info needed?   Happy to answer any and ALL questions.  Don’t be shy!  Am able to share much more, if needed in any areas.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.!  Live/blog from early 2018, first adventure through SE Asia, stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before exploring all over Vietnam and Cambodia, seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 45,373 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474

 

Here is a visual from the Terrace Cafe buffet area that has not been posted previously.  Make you hungry thinking about being there for lunch?.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

Here are three evening dining room treats that have not been posted previously. Ready for dinner now?.:

 

 

 

[dani negreanu]

17 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

 

Appreciate these above great tips and this follow-up from Dani in Israel.  Very helpful for our planning and prep in doing our first visiting in Alaska and to see these scenic parts of western Canada.  Keep up the great ideas and suggestions for our late July and early August "adventure".  For Dani, we super loved our first visit to your country, especially the two days in and around Jerusalem.  Very amazing!!

 

Thanks, Terry.

I'm so glad that you got to enjoy your visit to Israel when it was "relatively" quiet....

[TLCOhio]

6 hours ago, dani negreanu said:

Thanks, Terry.  I'm so glad that you got to enjoy your visit to Israel when it was "relatively" quiet....

 

YES!!  Well summarized and expressed above by Dani.  Our timing in Israel was excellent.  Considering all of the factors such as weather, safety, traffic, etc., things worked very well for us.  We were surprised by all of the growth, agriculture, activity, etc., in Israeli.  Very impressive!!  Highly developed, especially given the challenges that exist in a desert-like region.   Plus, we loved the great history and culture there!

 

From the  London/UK Independent early in March, they had this headline: “Abu Dhabi City Guide”  with these highlights: “Don’t come to Abu Dhabi expecting Dubai. The two desert cities are only 90 minutes’ drive apart (although plans are afoot to link them by train), but couldn’t be more different in vibe.  There’s a slow thoughtfulness to Abu Dhabi, helped by the fact that nothing here is quite as supersized as its more swaggering neighbour. The Emirati capital, built on an island in the Arabian Sea, has long been the seat of government and business – but it’s quietly adding more strings to its bow.  With the 2017 opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the city is also making a name for itself as the Emirates’ cultural capital.”

 

Here is what they said for this new, key attraction that we enjoyed: "Louvre Abu Dhabi packs the Gulf’s most powerful art punch. This landmark gallery is impressive inside and out: a futuristic steel shell opens up to a light-filled central plaza, off which labyrinthine exhibition halls are arranged. Inside there’s artwork by Ai Weiwei, Manet and Van Gogh as well as a vast selection of Middle Eastern antiquities. Open 10am-10pm, 63AED (£13)."

 

Full story at:

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/48-hours-in/abu-dhabi-city-guide-things-to-do-best-bars-hotels-restaurants-a8803276.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 63,433 views:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

 

Here is the wonderful picture used to illustrate this profile of Abu Dhabi and its many excellent options.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

[TLCOhio]

 From National Geographic two days ago, they had this headline: “photos reveal the splendors of Abu Dhabi”  with these highlights: “Situated on the coast of the Arabian Peninsula, the United Arab Emirates’ capital city is an oasis for adventure, culture, and comfort seekers. Discover the intricate designs of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, go sailing through azure waters, dine in opulent hotels, and relax at a soul-soothing desert retreat.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/destinations/asia/united-arab-emirates/abu-dhabi/photos-things-to-do/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 44,743 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

 

From National Geographic, here are just five of their most interesting and dramatic visuals from Abu Dhabi.  As shown in the second and fifth pictures below, we super enjoyed experiencing both Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Hope this is not too much on Abu Dhabi, but there has been much in the media lately about this part of the UAE.  From the London/UK Daily Mail earlier this past week, they had this headline: “Tourists are now allowed to visit Abu Dhabi's spectacular presidential palace”  with these highlights: “Part of the presidential palace in Abu Dhabi has been opened up to the public for the first time - and its interior is truly spectacular.  The Qasr Al Watan, which is inside the presidential compound, is being billed as a new landmark and a place where tourists can learn about the culture of the United Arab Emirates.   It only opened earlier this month, and so far visitors have been wowed by the building's huge white domes, dramatic chandeliers and intricate artwork.”

 

We saw this exterior from a distance, but the tours were not open in December 2018 when we visited Abu Dhabi.   This profile also shared: "Visitors can also explore a collection of diplomatic gifts received from visiting heads of state and foreign dignitaries, displayed to the public for the first time.  In a section of the palace called Al Barza, visitors will learn about the traditional role of a Majlis (which means council or assembly) through a multimedia show about Emirati leaders."

 

Full story at:

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-6835293/Tourists-allowed-visit-Abu-Dhabis-spectacular-presidential-palace.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast.  Now at 27,901 views.  Many interesting pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

 

Here are two of the visuals featured by the Daily Mail from this spectacular palace in Abu Dhabi.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

[irisbax3]

On ‎3‎/‎30‎/‎2019 at 7:44 AM, TLCOhio said:

 

Appreciate so much these great comments and follow-ups from Kinkajou, want2go, irisbax3 and gator50.  It's wonderful to hear about a "devoted TLCOhio follower", etc.  Look forward to hearing back from irisbax3 after your Egypt trip. 

 

Hi Terry,

Got back from our Egypt trip on Saturday.  It was a wonderful trip with much to see and do.  Our leader was a treasure trove of knowledge

On ‎3‎/‎30‎/‎2019 at 7:44 AM, TLCOhio said:

 

Appreciate so much these great comments and follow-ups from Kinkajou, want2go, irisbax3 and gator50.  It's wonderful to hear about a "devoted TLCOhio follower", etc.  Look forward to hearing back from irisbax3 after your Egypt trip. 

 

Hi Terry,

Returned from our Egypt trip on Saturday.  Our tour leader was a treasure trove of knowledge which made for a wonderful experience.  We visited Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Cairo traffic is the worst I've seen.  Haven't seen India's traffic but I thought Vietnam traffic was bad--Cairo is worst.

Now that we're back, it's time to start planning and doing research on ports for our Dec. 2019 Nautica cruise.  Take care.

Iris

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

On 4/3/2019 at 12:53 PM, irisbax3 said:

Hi Terry, Got back from our Egypt trip on Saturday.  It was a wonderful trip with much to see and do.  Our leader was a treasure trove of knowledge

 

Great to hear that you are back, safe and had enjoyed your time in Egypt.  Nice and appreciated follow-up.  

 

From the London/UK Telegraph two days ago, they had this headline: “Why travelling through Jordan with total strangers beats going solo” as a profile with many details and options to consider for Jordan.  

 

Here are some of their story highlights: “In Petra, the tour takes flight for me, after a trek through a steep-sided gorge suddenly reveals the ruined sixth-century city crowned in 2007 as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. We stare at the facade of the famous Treasury, the space in front of it cluttered by hundreds of tourists, hawkers, camels and horses for hire. It is a remarkable sight.  Wadi Rum is a majestic landscape of towering sandstone mountains, natural arches and canyons for what is the highlight of my trip. Arriving at our humble camp in a blaze of dust at sunset, we perch on a rock to watch the sky turn orange. We are silent as darkness falls across ancient riverbeds, stretches of desert and humped mountains.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/middle-east/jordan/articles/solo-travel-Jordan/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal.  Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 26,445 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

 

From this UK profile on Jordan, below are a few of their dramatic visuals, including the first two below from the wonderful Wadi Rum that we loved exploring.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

Here is one of their views of the famed Treasury at Petra.:

[melody hounddog]

Great review. I love all the fabulous photos. Thanks so much for posting!

[TLCOhio]

On 4/8/2019 at 2:06 PM, melody hounddog said:

Great review. I love all the fabulous photos. Thanks so much for posting!

 

Appreciate, Melody, your very kind comments and this nice follow-up.  This type of encouragement spurs me to keep posting and sharing.  

 

Just saw this morning a wonderful TV program distributed by NBC that features travel host Josh Garcia.  It was all about visiting Jordan, Petra and Wadi Rum.  It was very well produced and brought back great memories from our time visiting these scenic and historic areas.  As mentioned previously, seeing BOTH Petra and Wadi Rum was amazing and one of the top, best highlights from our exploring in the Middle East.   Josh's website is: 

www.nbc.com/the-voyager-with-josh-garcia

Since this new episode just aired this morning, it is not linked, yet.  He has covered many great locations around the world and it is worth checking all of his different programs.  His travel style is very young, hip, but FUN . . . even for an oldies-loving, Baby Boomer like me.   

 

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Telegraph earlier this month, they had this headline: “8 fantastic family-friendly things to do in Dubai”  with these highlights: “Dubai is tailormade for family adventures and in recent years it’s become a hotbed of theme parks. From slow and steady winners to pulse-racing thrillers, there are rides for all ages – yes, even for the grandparents – and some compelling 'edutainment' options, too. Add multi-cultural cuisine, sunshine, beaches and the whole Arabian Sea to play with and you can chalk up Dubai as a suitable destination for your entire brood.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/dubai/articles/dubai-family-friendly-attractions/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 245,398 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

[TLCOhio]

As mentioned earlier, we were pleased from our first sailing with Oceania and would consider booking with this line for the future.  In doing more research and given our desire to escape the harsh Midwest winters, we might have found that good option.  It would be on the Regatta.  That "Flagship" as Oceania calls this vessel, it is being updated and made a "NEXT ship in September 2019.  Our cruise choice?  

 

Have a B1-Veranda Stateroom booked for departing Auckland, New Zealand, on Feb. 17, 2020.  It will be an 18-day adventure going to Bay of Islands, NZ, two sea-days in South Pacific, going to both Noumea and Maré Island locations in New Caledonia, then Port Vila/Vanuatu, another sea-day before arriving for two days in Fiji at Lautoka and Suva, another sea as we cross the International Date Line, then two different days for Apia/Samoa and Pago Pago, American Samoa, two days in the South Pacific before arriving for two days Bora Bora, French Polynesia, then a day at nearby Raiatea.  We finish and disembark at Papeete, Tahiti.  Sound good and interesting? 

 

Any other having had experiences to share from being on the Regatta and/or for these various locations in the South Pacific and New Zealand??  In 2014, we did a sailing from Australia that gave us a good, initial sampling of these two scenic NZ islands.  Looking forward to seeing more in this region.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 234,939 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

[MHF]

Wonderful pix and history lessons as usual, Terry!  Now I want to take you back to your college days...can you do a compare/contrast on Oceania vs. SilverSea?  I am looking at a similar itinerary on the Spirit in Nov 2020.  I've always done SS and I know you've done several with them too.  What do you think the major differences are?  The plus/minus of one vs. the other?

 

Have a marvelous time in Alaska.  Did you get a helicopter or plane tour booked?

 

Thanks, Missy

[TLCOhio]

11 hours ago, MHF said:

Wonderful pix and history lessons as usual, Terry!  Now I want to take you back to your college days...can you do a compare/contrast on Oceania vs. SilverSea?  I am looking at a similar itinerary on the Spirit in Nov 2020.  I've always done SS and I know you've done several with them too.  What do you think the major differences are?  The plus/minus of one vs. the other?  Have a marvelous time in Alaska.  Did you get a helicopter or plane tour booked?  Thanks, Missy

 

YES, Missy from Maryland, you have asked very good questions and made some nice, much appreciated comments.  Great follow-up!!!  We do have set up a "Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery Tour" through the owner (originally from Central Ohio) for Sunday, July 28 with Wings Airways in Juneau while sailing on the Silver Muse.  Should be fun and I am planning to be in the co-pilot seat to achieve some nice visuals (if the weather cooperates).

 

As to Silversea versus Oceania, they are different in some ways, but overall both are similar and very good to excellent.  Much depends on your personal style, budget, etc. We have done five cruises with Silversea and are getting ready to do our sixth with that cruise line on their Silver Muse for going from Vancouver up to Alaska in late July.  We have booked a February 2020 Oceania South Pacific sailing from Auckland to Tahiti.   Clearly, we very much like the size, style and quality with BOTH of these lines.  Our Oceania ship was a little larger than what are the Silversea ships.  But, both are at a nice, comfortable type compared to being on a ship that hold 2,000, 3,000 or more passengers.  Beer, wine and liquor are extra with Oceania, but included with Silversea.  Soft drinks are included with both lines.  Both have decent dining alternatives in addition to what is offered in the MDR's, room-service menus, etc.  Both are flexible and good in being able to pick your dining times, etc.  Oceania's excursions tend to be more costly than those with SS, plus maybe a little large in the group size. 

 

In general, Silversea tends to be a little more costly, but their basic balcony rooms are much larger and more roomy.  Some SS ships are newer compared to the older (but being re-done) Oceania R-class ships. Better, larger baths, in general, with Silversea.   In looking at the specifics of your planned November 2020 Silver Spirit sailing, one of the key pluses is that you would have the potential of three days (versus our two days) to explore Jerusalem and nearby.  This SS cruise has less time/stops in and at certain islands in the Med and one less stop in Oman.  BOTH what we did and for what you are planning, they have the key stops for Jordan and Egypt as being virtually the same.  The SS cruise is for 17 days versus ours being 20 days. Those difference in number of days in the sailing can affect the overall cost. 

 

Does this help a little?  Hopefully, I have given a decent mini-college level summary. What letter grade do you give me?  Do you need a Masters and/or Ph.D, more in-depth analysis?   What added questions, info needs for both lines?  We did sailing on the Silver Spirit in June 2017 from Lisbon to Rouen before it was "stretched" to its current size and style. Know that ship fairly well.  You will love your planned November 2020 sailing!!  But, five sea-days in going down the Red Sea and to Oman, can be a long time on the ship, if your focus is more about port stops.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 220,057 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139