THE SECRETS OF THE NCL HAVEN LUXURY EXPERIENCE

[Keene33]

Based on your experience, and advice, I will definitely reconsider the butler services.

 

My only concern if I go ahead and do this is we will likely be hooked on the Haven and pay for that level of service and comfort moving forward.

 

 

[aubreyc1988]

Forward Facing Penthouse on deck 13, Haven Courtyard Penthouse with Large Balcony OR Aft Facing Penthouse? So many decisions lol

[aubreyc1988]

Just now, Thain said:

Based on your experience, and advice, I will definitely reconsider the butler services.

 

My only concern if I go ahead and do this is we will likely be hooked on the Haven and pay for that level of service and comfort moving forward.

 

 

I am afraid of that as well, will have to get a second job lol

[ECCruise]

33 minutes ago, Thain said:

Based on your experience, and advice, I will definitely reconsider the butler services.

 

My only concern if I go ahead and do this is we will likely be hooked on the Haven and pay for that level of service and comfort moving forward.

 

 

Everyone is different.

 

We've sailed in suites and in the Haven many times, including last month in Haven for 17 days.  But on our 16 cruises booked in the next 2 years, not a single one is in a suite or Haven.

 

We made the decision on the recent sailing sailing that we would not be booking Haven any longer since the value just doesn't match up with the prices paid (and we got an incredible deal, less than $500 total for 2 per day in a 2BR/2BA family cabin, which was $250 per day more than a Club Balcony).

To pay the kind of dough that they want on lots of sailings going forward just doesn't resonate with us in the least.

 

So no, it depends on the individual whether or not you continue to stick with Suites/Haven after your first.

Edited January 5, 2022 by ECCruise

[Drews_Cruise]

Considering the kids paid approx 10K PP CAD for our upcoming cruise on the Prima, we know that it will be our ONE and ONLY cruise in the Haven.  We will enjoy every minute of it while knowing that it wont likely happen again.   I'll still be glad to back to our standard balcony..(I hope)..lol

[HonkyTonkAngel]

On 10/15/2019 at 5:55 PM, nyc2pdx said:

It kind of amazes me why people would bring kids into the Haven pool area as it can't be much fun for them in a quiet courtyard.  It is very expensive, and when I was a kid, we never went to fancy places...it was always family friendly places.  Different world, I guess. I think of the Haven as pretty high end...

Nyc2pdx I totally agree with you! I may be in the minority here, but I don't feel little ones belong on a cruise. I raised 3 sons and we took them camping and to Disney. I am in disbelief when I see parents with their little ones on cruises. And like you, we never got fancy vacation when I was a kid. We didn't even get Disney; it was just camping! 🤣🤣 . Just like you said, different world I guess. 

[JGmf]

3 hours ago, aubreyc1988 said:

Forward Facing Penthouse on deck 13, Haven Courtyard Penthouse with Large Balcony OR Aft Facing Penthouse?

 

Having stayed in all three, I totally recommend the Aft facing penthouse for its large balcony, more exciting view, and, in my opinion, it's better b/c its outside of the Haven-proper.  I like the walk and the exercise of taking the stairs multiple times a day to get to my room (I have a "no elevator" rule on cruises to offset all the extra calories, mostly liquid).  I like to see and walk the ship.  That said, I do enjoy the Haven bar (very much) and the Haven restaurant and having the private sundeck is a must for selected members of my family. 

 

Also, if you stay in one of the courtyard rooms, it can get seemingly crowded in the hallways, and kind of loud, esp when there's a lot of kids staying in the Haven and just having their fun in the pool and hot tubs.  It's just more peaceful to NOT have a room there.

[aubreyc1988]

2 minutes ago, JGmf said:

 

Having stayed in all three, I totally recommend the Aft facing penthouse for its large balcony, more exciting view, and, in my opinion, it's better b/c its outside of the Haven-proper.  I like the walk and the exercise of taking the stairs multiple times a day to get to my room (I have a "no elevator" rule on cruises to offset all the extra calories, mostly liquid).  I like to see and walk the ship.  That said, I do enjoy the Haven bar (very much) and the Haven restaurant and having the private sundeck is a must for selected members of my family. 

 

Also, if you stay in one of the courtyard rooms, it can get seemingly crowded in the hallways, and kind of loud, esp when there's a lot of kids staying in the Haven and just having their fun in the pool and hot tubs.  It's just more peaceful to NOT have a room there.

we too have a no elevator rule for the most part. Usually day 5 I throw it to the wind tho LOL 

 

Do you feel like the noise is bad? I have heard reports of that, but I am not a light sleeper so not sure how concerned I should be. 

[JGmf]

3 minutes ago, aubreyc1988 said:

Do you feel like the noise is bad? I have heard reports of that, but I am not a light sleeper so not sure how concerned I should be.

Nah, once you are in your room, esp at night, there really isn't a noise issue.  My comment focused on once you leave your room, into the fishbowl of the Haven courtyard, it can be quite noisy and crowded, but that depends, of course, on who is cruising on that particular sailing.  Some may like it, but not me. 

[cruising sister]

The Joy courtyard was very quiet but can see if kids and crowded it could noisy. I will reiterate the noise and vibrations on the Joy are real.  It is something like we have never felt and we have been on over 20 cruises. If walking aft was that bad I could not imagine sleeping there. Just go in expecting it to be bad and maybe they will have it fixed. 

[Sthrngary]

5 hours ago, Thain said:

Based on your experience, and advice, I will definitely reconsider the butler services.

 

My only concern if I go ahead and do this is we will likely be hooked on the Haven and pay for that level of service and comfort moving forward.

 

 

Yep, that is what happens to all of us.  Funny, in December 2022, I am doing  Suite and hope to upgrade.  I spent all my lunch money on my 42 wedding anniversary family vacation in the DOS.  I will be so bummed if I don't get an upgrade but it just means I will do the 7-day specialty restaurant package.  I feel pretty confident I will get the upgrade though.  

 

You will love the Haven.  To help you, here is a clip of some information I wrote on butlers.  This excerpt is from the family journey document I did for our recent 7-day NCL Joy cruise.  I hope it helps you. Love any comments you might have.  Enjoy!!!

 

The Haven Butler:

Overview:

On day one, I provide the butler a letter that has some of our basic needs.  I also tip them upfront which has always worked for me.  The Haven Butler is not under the normal gratuities program so what they get from us is their income.

What your Haven Butler WILL do for you:

1.       Set up your suite: Butlers will do everything from packing and unpacking your luggage to offering pillow menus, and stocking and re-stocking your suite bar with your drink preferences. They will also bring CDs, books, board games and DVDs to your room. They can even draw you a bubble bath if you ask -- or if they sense you could use one.

2.       Handle logistics: Butlers will save you from spending your vacation waiting in line or dealing with the minutiae of your trip. They will handle all your reservations for specialty restaurants and book appointments for the spa, salon, and private fitness training. They can book ship or private shore excursions and arrange shoreside dining and entertainment. They will even work with the chef to expedite special dietary requests, such as paleo or gluten-free meals.

3.       Make deliveries: Butlers will be your complimentary room service provider. They will deliver fancy canapes daily, like foie gras terrine and crab legs (examples only, always check additional costs), and upgraded turn-down amenities, such as a chocolate box. They can present in-room tea service. They will also bring you room service or morning cappuccinos and espresso, even serving you dinner course-by-course, in your suite or on your balcony. Please always ask for all food deliveries to be ONLY from the Haven Restaurant.

4.      Take care of your laundry: Butlers will handle laundry, dry-cleaning and pressing requests, and return your clothes expertly folded and wrapped in tissue paper. There is always a cost to your suite.

5.       Have a party: If you are social types, butlers can help you organize cocktail or dinner parties in your suite and even bartend or help while your guests are present. For special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, they might decorate your suite or present bubbly and celebratory cakes.

6.       Take care of the little details: Butlers will shine shoes, place bookmarks in books and wrap eyeglasses in cleaning cloths. They will even solve problems for you, such as finding an appropriate crew member to fix broken eyeglasses or stuck luggage locks.

7.       Give advice: Butlers know their ships inside out and are often familiar with ports. They might advise on everything from the finest shopping street to the best hours to hit the onboard fitness center.

What your Haven Butler WILL NOT do for you:

1.       They won't work exclusively for you: Most butlers juggle several suites; for the best service, plan. Make requests, such as for dining reservations, private shore excursions and beauty appointments, well in advance so butlers can manage their time to make your wishes reality. If they do not instantaneously answer a page, they might be busy with another passenger.

2.       They won't babysit: Don't expect the butler to watch your kids, although they might assist in hiring a sitter and often play with children, time permitting.

3.       They won't act as aides: If physically challenged, travel with a companion. A butler will always assist in an emergency but should not be expected to help you with daily physical needs.

4.       They won't be your personal companion: While some butlers can be chatty -- particularly with solo passengers seeking company -- they are not your friend or travel companion. They can escort you to a restaurant or show, but they will not sit with you.

5.       They cannot always fulfill challenging requests: If you ask for a miracle, such as dinner reservations in the ship's hottest restaurant 15 minutes before you wish to eat, a butler cannot always meet your request. That said, butlers try to make magic. They can serve you dinner from that restaurant in your suite or secure a table at a later hour, instead.

 

 

Cruise well everyone.

 

 

[Sthrngary]

5 hours ago, aubreyc1988 said:

Forward Facing Penthouse on deck 13, Haven Courtyard Penthouse with Large Balcony OR Aft Facing Penthouse? So many decisions lol

Here is the real deal.  The forward face is great because you have the same view as the captain.  The issue which I just found out is at night, the wind is right at you.  The Aft is spectacular as well.  The issue here is the vibration from the the huge props.  Some folks hate that other find it relaxing.  

 

Both of the suites are awesome because there is something to say about a really big balcony.  You have to have at least one meal out there.

 

So my personal favorite will always be the Aft.  I love that view and don't mind not being close to the Haven Courtyard.  Just my two cents.

 

Cruise well. 

[Two Wheels Only]

6 hours ago, aubreyc1988 said:

Forward Facing Penthouse on deck 13, Haven Courtyard Penthouse with Large Balcony OR Aft Facing Penthouse? So many decisions lol

 

If you're looking at Breakaway, Getaway, Joy*, Bliss, or Encore, the forward-facing penthouse on deck 13 has a partially enclosed balcony and one of them (port side) is wheelchair-accessible which is 1 large room and large bathroom (no separate living-room). For Escape, the partially enclosed forward-facing suite balconies are on deck 14. 

 

 

If looking at any BA/BA Plus ship, the aft-facing penthouse balcony depth varies by deck and the stateroom configuration also varies depending on the class and deck. 

 

56 minutes ago, Sthrngary said:

The forward face is great because you have the same view as the captain.  The issue which I just found out is at night, the wind is right at you.

 

If a BA/BA Plus ship, the forward-facing penthouse staterooms have the balcony on the side. The forward-facing part is the window either in the bedroom or in the bathroom (deck 13 port side). 

 

*I think that "aubreyc1988" is sailing on Joy. 

Edited January 5, 2022 by Two Wheels Only

[aubreyc1988]

1 hour ago, Two Wheels Only said:

 

If you're looking at Breakaway, Getaway, Joy*, Bliss, or Encore, the forward-facing penthouse on deck 13 has a partially enclosed balcony and one of them (port side) is wheelchair-accessible which is 1 large room and large bathroom (no separate living-room). For Escape, the partially enclosed forward-facing suite balconies are on deck 14. 

 

 

If looking at any BA/BA Plus ship, the aft-facing penthouse balcony depth varies by deck and the stateroom configuration also varies depending on the class and deck. 

 

 

If a BA/BA Plus ship, the forward-facing penthouse staterooms have the balcony on the side. The forward-facing part is the window either in the bedroom or in the bathroom (deck 13 port side). 

 

*I think that "aubreyc1988" is sailing on Joy. 

thank you! I was accidentally in a fwd facing on Joy but had my TA change it because I am not technically HC (I am partially deaf but I don't normally book HC cabins since I sail with someone who can alert me of an emergency) I am on deck 13 fwd on Joy, but  I might make the jump to aft facing if pricing goes down or if I find some money laying around. 

[aubreyc1988]

4 hours ago, Sthrngary said:

Here is the real deal.  The forward face is great because you have the same view as the captain.  The issue which I just found out is at night, the wind is right at you.  The Aft is spectacular as well.  The issue here is the vibration from the the huge props.  Some folks hate that other find it relaxing.  

 

Both of the suites are awesome because there is something to say about a really big balcony.  You have to have at least one meal out there.

 

So my personal favorite will always be the Aft.  I love that view and don't mind not being close to the Haven Courtyard.  Just my two cents.

 

Cruise well. 

Do you know why it seems like ncl  joy 9972, the room seems smaller? 

[Two Wheels Only]

5 minutes ago, aubreyc1988 said:

Do you know why it seems like ncl  joy 9972, the room seems smaller? 

 

The deck plan is just colored in that way. The actual stateroom goes all the way to the side of the ship.

 

 

[Sthrngary]

15 minutes ago, aubreyc1988 said:

Do you know why it seems like ncl  joy 9972, the room seems smaller? 

I do not 

[Tiffany18]

What are the options on the “pillow menu”?

[aubreyc1988]

6 hours ago, JGmf said:

Nah, once you are in your room, esp at night, there really isn't a noise issue.  My comment focused on once you leave your room, into the fishbowl of the Haven courtyard, it can be quite noisy and crowded, but that depends, of course, on who is cruising on that particular sailing.  Some may like it, but not me. 

is this how the noise is?

[momofjohnjr]

On 1/4/2022 at 8:27 PM, Sthrngary said:

I have just looked at some of the 7-Day Haven rates for cruising leaving soon.  I have NEVER seen Haven rates this low.  We all know the reason.  Since most of you know I wrote this op-ed and attempt to updated it from time to time, I had to comment.

 

I love the Haven experience.  I recently had it again and feel so blessed to have done so.  Before we consider these very low rates, please take the time to think it through.  For my wife and I, we are a bit older and it would not be a good move for us.  Health and safety is our priority right now at our age. 

 

If you choose to take this risk, please use good business judgement.  We all have lived the last two years so we have to do what is right for each of us and our situations.  My hope is we all can cruise in the Haven together soon.

 

Cruise well everyone.

I agree with u on your health and 50% of hospitalizations atm are children. We all had Covid in September and are very fresh with our vaccines so our risk is less but had we not had covid and the vaccines were older U would not have taken the chance.  Especially our youngest has heart disease so we were most worried about getting it.

 

I also have to add my sister was fully vaccinated but got covid at the end b4 her 2 weeks. We lost her in August. Absolutely devastating. I can't remember how far out the vaccines have to be but make sure at least 2 weeks. Never know if someone will read this and take head. I'm definitely looking forward to less people in the Haven and hope in the courtyard "when open" we can leave the masks off. (Escape)

 

 

[momofjohnjr]

14 hours ago, ECCruise said:

Everyone is different.

 

We've sailed in suites and in the Haven many times, including last month in Haven for 17 days.  But on our 16 cruises booked in the next 2 years, not a single one is in a suite or Haven.

 

We made the decision on the recent sailing sailing that we would not be booking Haven any longer since the value just doesn't match up with the prices paid (and we got an incredible deal, less than $500 total for 2 per day in a 2BR/2BA family cabin, which was $250 per day more than a Club Balcony).

To pay the kind of dough that they want on lots of sailings going forward just doesn't resonate with us in the least.

 

So no, it depends on the individual whether or not you continue to stick with Suites/Haven after your first.

We have the 2bdrm family villa for 7 days on escape and we are paying less that 1500 per person (6 of us). So less than 200 per person per night. First week of February. The price is great compared to other prices. I necer thought we could ever pay for it and really wish I had let NCL cancel first to get more credit. Feel dumb. All I did was call and reschedule twice b4 they canceled. Sigh. Nothing I can do about it though. 😉

[momofjohnjr]

11 hours ago, HonkyTonkAngel said:

Nyc2pdx I totally agree with you! I may be in the minority here, but I don't feel little ones belong on a cruise. I raised 3 sons and we took them camping and to Disney. I am in disbelief when I see parents with their little ones on cruises. And like you, we never got fancy vacation when I was a kid. We didn't even get Disney; it was just camping! 🤣🤣 . Just like you said, different world I guess. 

Our first cruise was with my youngest then almost 3 and one of her sister's nearly 12 at the rime (pretty sure on the ages) and they both had a lot of fun. Even with the water too cold. Their favorite thing to do was get ice cream and walk the stairs seeing if they could beat the elevator. And we all loved just walking around looking at the ocean and Hannah even did the rock climbing. We had a lot of fun and some nice family meals where we would share each others desserts and try each others foods and made fun memories even if they are low key. There's more but it was just a really good time for 3 nights.

[momofjohnjr]

10 hours ago, Sthrngary said:

Yep, that is what happens to all of us.  Funny, in December 2022, I am doing  Suite and hope to upgrade.  I spent all my lunch money on my 42 wedding anniversary family vacation in the DOS.  I will be so bummed if I don't get an upgrade but it just means I will do the 7-day specialty restaurant package.  I feel pretty confident I will get the upgrade though.  

 

You will love the Haven.  To help you, here is a clip of some information I wrote on butlers.  This excerpt is from the family journey document I did for our recent 7-day NCL Joy cruise.  I hope it helps you. Love any comments you might have.  Enjoy!!!

 

The Haven Butler:

Overview:

On day one, I provide the butler a letter that has some of our basic needs.  I also tip them upfront which has always worked for me.  The Haven Butler is not under the normal gratuities program so what they get from us is their income.

What your Haven Butler WILL do for you:

1.       Set up your suite: Butlers will do everything from packing and unpacking your luggage to offering pillow menus, and stocking and re-stocking your suite bar with your drink preferences. They will also bring CDs, books, board games and DVDs to your room. They can even draw you a bubble bath if you ask -- or if they sense you could use one.

2.       Handle logistics: Butlers will save you from spending your vacation waiting in line or dealing with the minutiae of your trip. They will handle all your reservations for specialty restaurants and book appointments for the spa, salon, and private fitness training. They can book ship or private shore excursions and arrange shoreside dining and entertainment. They will even work with the chef to expedite special dietary requests, such as paleo or gluten-free meals.

3.       Make deliveries: Butlers will be your complimentary room service provider. They will deliver fancy canapes daily, like foie gras terrine and crab legs (examples only, always check additional costs), and upgraded turn-down amenities, such as a chocolate box. They can present in-room tea service. They will also bring you room service or morning cappuccinos and espresso, even serving you dinner course-by-course, in your suite or on your balcony. Please always ask for all food deliveries to be ONLY from the Haven Restaurant.

4.      Take care of your laundry: Butlers will handle laundry, dry-cleaning and pressing requests, and return your clothes expertly folded and wrapped in tissue paper. There is always a cost to your suite.

5.       Have a party: If you are social types, butlers can help you organize cocktail or dinner parties in your suite and even bartend or help while your guests are present. For special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, they might decorate your suite or present bubbly and celebratory cakes.

6.       Take care of the little details: Butlers will shine shoes, place bookmarks in books and wrap eyeglasses in cleaning cloths. They will even solve problems for you, such as finding an appropriate crew member to fix broken eyeglasses or stuck luggage locks.

7.       Give advice: Butlers know their ships inside out and are often familiar with ports. They might advise on everything from the finest shopping street to the best hours to hit the onboard fitness center.

What your Haven Butler WILL NOT do for you:

1.       They won't work exclusively for you: Most butlers juggle several suites; for the best service, plan. Make requests, such as for dining reservations, private shore excursions and beauty appointments, well in advance so butlers can manage their time to make your wishes reality. If they do not instantaneously answer a page, they might be busy with another passenger.

2.       They won't babysit: Don't expect the butler to watch your kids, although they might assist in hiring a sitter and often play with children, time permitting.

3.       They won't act as aides: If physically challenged, travel with a companion. A butler will always assist in an emergency but should not be expected to help you with daily physical needs.

4.       They won't be your personal companion: While some butlers can be chatty -- particularly with solo passengers seeking company -- they are not your friend or travel companion. They can escort you to a restaurant or show, but they will not sit with you.

5.       They cannot always fulfill challenging requests: If you ask for a miracle, such as dinner reservations in the ship's hottest restaurant 15 minutes before you wish to eat, a butler cannot always meet your request. That said, butlers try to make magic. They can serve you dinner from that restaurant in your suite or secure a table at a later hour, instead.

 

 

Cruise well everyone.

 

 

I thought not all rooms have cd/dvd players?

 

anymore examples of fancy/more expensive type items that are possibly free. Like I'd really love some ceviche if free. Lol

 

Is there a game, book list? Same for cd and dvds... cards too? Maybe UNO? Wdyt?

 

Isn't ironing alone free?

Tysm!

 

Btw- I liked your videos and need to hit the like button as I casted them to the tv and couldn't.  I should remember to do it though. Hope so.

 

 

Edited January 6, 2022 by momofjohnjr
More questions

[don't-use-real-name]

15 minutes ago, momofjohnjr said:

I thought not all rooms have cd/dvd players?

 

anymore examples of fancy/more expensive type items that are possibly free. Like I'd really love some ceviche if free. Lol

 

Is there a game, book list? Same for cd and dvds... cards too? Maybe UNO? Wdyt?

 

Isn't ironing alone free?

Tysm!

 

Btw- I liked your videos and need to hit the like button as I casted them to the tv and couldn't.  I should remember to do it though. Hope so.

 

 

CDs and DVDs were the rage on the older ships SUN SPIRIT etc. but the trend now is video

on demand (free in suites) on the in house TV system.

The in house TV will have a menu of what is available 

 

Take a visit to the ships library for games (UNO and other board type games)

 

On some of the newer ships if you can access the back panel of the TV you might be able

to USB a video that you have brought with you - careful what you tamper with - the TVs are

wired into Emergency information and other guest information i.e. On Board Account -

disconnect and a visit from the crew checking why the system isn't working.

 

Ironing can be done for a service fee - fill out the (laundry) form to have this done.

-OR- request an iron and board from your cabin steward for use in your cabin.

 

While NCL is FreeStyle in the dress code - the night that crew dresses up in their dress

gear for photo opts ask about getting your semi-formal outfit Pressed for no charge

Dry cleaning is always with a fee (that laundry form again).

Suggestion take that FreeStyle seriously - no need for all that raz-ma-taz !

[vacation44]

8 hours ago, aubreyc1988 said:

is this how the noise is?

Great video find--is it a Joy aft?   This would not be good for my husband and I.  Still searching for more feedback.