New to Cruises

part-timer

Hi Everyone,

I have finally persuaded my o/h to do a cruise for our 25th anniversary next year.

The one I am looking at is 4 days in las vegas (the bribe for o/h) followed by a 14 day Hawaiin cruise with Princess.

Being completely new to cruises, I have done a little research on the internet with regard to the line, the ship etc but am completely overwhelmed with the options on board ship.

I have been to a couple of the dedicated cruise websites which have good foums but am still a bit confused.

If there are any seasoned cruise goers out there, would really appreciate some advice.

Is it worth forking out the extra for a balcony. What dining options are the best, are drinks packages really worth it (neither of us are big drinkers), the gratuities thing is really confusing me.

Any tips and hints gratefully received.

Thank you

daveyjp

Balcony depends how sociable you are. If you will only sleep in your cabin go for an inside. If you want time to yourself to sit and watch the world go by and a view go outside or balcony.

Dining. Do you want to eat at the same time with the same people every night or do you prefer to eat when you want? We prefer anytime as we can then eat at different times, have tables for two,take as long as we like etc. Fixed dining is 6.30 or 8.30.

Brochure is very clear on tips. Princess charge a daily rate per passenger which is added to your account. This can be removed at reception if requested.

bcl999

If you have settled on Princess, I would suggest signing up on www.cruisecritic.com and posting in the Princess forum there. You'll likely get replies from people who have been on that cruise/ship.

travellerboy

I have been cruising for over Twenty years, and have just returned from a 21 day Caribbean Cruise with Princess aboard the Emerald. I would suggest you look at recent reviews of Princess as they have deteriated to such a low level I would definately not recommend them to my worst enemy.

Suggest you consider Celebrity or Royal Caribbean and stay away from the Carnival brand especially Costa and Princess.

loobs40

Why don't you try a taster cruise first ? P&O are doing some from Southampton for three or four nights round the English channel. Doesn't sound like much, but it gives you an opportunity to see what cruising is all about

We are seasoned cruisers, but have booked for the one on the 20th July which is basically a long weekend . We are taking my daughter and her friend for a treat after finishing GSCE's. P&O are advertising £219 per person for an internal cabin on that trip. Maybe lower now.

getmore4less

The 14n Hawaii have a lot of sea days, 4 each way.

Only NCL do fly cruise to Hawaii

You could test Princess this month for 12n £499 round britain.


general stuff
Tips : budget the recomended daily rate
Drinks : sounds like a PAYG will be the way no need for package if you don't drink much.

cabin : if going for a balcony we prefer aft less wind when ship is moving.