Celebrity suite experience compared to NCL Haven on the newer ships?

[39august]

Would love to read some comparisions between X suite and NCL Haven experiences.  Never been on Haven, but X is pricing me out of suites so looking for a change. BIg factor for us is that Prima is in Galveston and that is a drivable port for us. 

[bfree32]

We have been in the Haven about 5-6 times and did the Celebrity Apex Retreat earlier this year. Bottom line, you can't go wrong with either and I would make decide based upon itinerary, price, etc. With that being said, here are some general observations:

 

1) The newer the ship the better the Haven. Smaller NCL ships do not have all the same benefits as their newer ships.

2) The Apex Retreat pool/sun lounging experience was vastly better because the Haven has an indoor pool without ocean views. Celebrity's new ships (Apex/Beyond/Edge) have beautiful pool decks

3) If you have a COURTYARD Haven room, you don't have to take an elevator to the Haven pool/restaurant/Lounge. We have always had a Courtyard suite on NCL. We were worried about needing to walk from our room to the suite area on Apex - but in the end, that didnt seem to be a big issue. 

4) We found the dining room on Apex to be very loud. We prefer the dining areas In NCL when there is a Haven restaurant. 

5) It seemed there were more 'little things' offered on NCL. Little treats in the rooms, Escort to seats, etc. Not deal breakers, but felt a little more special on NCL. 

 

Food options and specialty restaurants were similar and awesome on both. Entertainment seems better on NCL. If you are looking for a relaxed suite experience, would lean Celebrity Retreat. If travelling with friends, looking for a party, would lean NCL. But again, they are both great!

[molemaui]

I've sailed Retreat three times on Edge class ships and thought just about everything was over the top fantastic. Loved the uncrowded pool/sundeck, Luminea, the lounge, etc. 

 

This coming Friday we board the Prima in Haven. Have not sailed Norwegian in a long time. Looking forward to the comparison between Haven and Retreat.