Help Us Decide

avie · September 1, 2006

Joey,

Let's throw another iron into the fire -- have you considered Regent (formerly Raddisson). I was very close to signing up with them for a 2005 trip, but had to scrub the trip because of a work-related conflict. I believe Regent has a no-tipping policy which it enforces! And, depending on the stateroom, they have more amenities. Also, I believe I read that the rooms are among the largest in the industry and the ships are small to mid-sized. I also believe their pricing can be competitive. When I checked they have a Transatlantic that is reasonably priced. At least worth looking into.

I have a neighbor who went on Oceanana this spring, but I can't go on their say-so alone (they always tend to have the "best" -- at least in their own minds. They did say that reservations in the alternative dining rooms was limited according to cabin category. And the food was "good" but not "great." However, I cannot vouch for their assessment.

As I prefer to bring my tux out of moth balls occasionally, I like a few formal evenings that X or Regent or many others offer, rather than all casual.

Of course, these are just my views and 3d-hand impressions, and I cannot voice a first-hand opinion on some of the alternatives.

Good luck on your planning.

Avie

JoeyandDavid · September 1, 2006

your bring up a good point we do like to tux it up....

Lisa63 · September 1, 2006

Joey, from what I know based on your previous posts, I feel you would truly enjoy a transatlantic crossing. The days at sea are heavenly -- there are many activities onboard, but most (like I do) prefer the serenity of being at sea for several consecutive days.

Happy planning!

zebra · September 1, 2006

OCEANIA!!!!! We were booked on the Insignia last year but due to health reasons had to cancel. I was sooooooo looking forward to spending some time in Istanbul - the cruise was going to end there and we would have spent 3 days exploring.... also Ephesus was another port of call we were so excited about!! Oh well.

A Transatlantic is always great especially if you're a person who likes sea days.

I always think of Transatlantic and European cruises as being at the 2 ends of the spectrum. The one is ultra laid back and the other is the extreme opposite, go, go, go!!! What do you want your energy level to be, that would be one of the deciding factors I would think.

Shari2 · September 1, 2006

Joey...

I don't think you can go wrong booking either one. I'd love to try Oceania cruises, and the "Century" is all newly refurbished next year, and you like Celebrity, so I don't thing you can go wrong with either choice. I would go for the best itinerary and price that's in your budget.