Cruising and expectations....in general

[SeaSpray]

I just need to say something. When I started researching cruises a couple of years ago, one of the very first things I found out was that itineraries are never, ever carved in stone. No matter what cruise line, ship, or time of year you sail. There are many variables that can effect the outcome of a cruise ship's planned itinerary. I think that most people do not realize this fact when planning a cruise vacation.


I am sorry to make this observation, but anyone who complains, gets upset, angry, etc. really does not have the right to do so. When you choose a cruise vacation, you are merely choosing what is "planned".


When we were about to leave on our August 28th Magic cruise 2 weeks ago, I hoped ONLY to be able to make it onto the ship. Period. Whatever happened from there, especially this time of year with hurricanes in the news, I knew I'd be thrilled just be on the ship, and on a cruise.

In a perfect world, no itineraries would ever have to be changed, but until then, this is the fact of cruising.

 

[goin2disneyagain]

Well said. I don't think people realize that itineraries are subject to change either.

 

[Hygiene99]

Seaspray

 

[wdwmom2]

I agree. No one can control the weather. Intineraries have to be changed at times for everyone's safety. Sure, I would like to visit the places on the intinerary, but if it puts me in an unsafe situation, I would only hope that it would be changed.

Heck, they could put me on the Magic or Wonder and just let it sit in port and I would be happy!!!!!

 

[SandraLee]

Actually, when I started my research on cruises, I looked at the SHIP first; then the ports. I knew I didn't really care where I went -- I would be spending more time on any ship than in any port.

My next cruise (after DCL in Panamal canal!) will be on a Radiance class RCCL ship. Those are looking so beautiful. The solarium is very nifty and they are the same size as the Magic.

A cruise is really all about the ship; not the ports.

 

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by SandraLee

My next cruise (after DCL in Panamal canal!) will be on a Radiance class RCCL ship. Those are looking so beautiful. The solarium is very nifty and they are the same size as the Magic.

I think the Radiance class ships are gorgeous!! They are mostly glass, and I think the views from inside would be breathtaking. Do you know which ship or itinerary yet? I know the Radiance class does the Alaskan cruise, not sure which other itineraries.

Our first cruise last year was RCI's smallest ship, the Nordic Empress (Now remodeled and renamed Empress of the Seas) and that's when we fell in love with cruising! But what a big leap in ships when we sailed on the Magic a week ago. It's truly an elegant and beautiful ship. Next June, we're cruising on RCI's largest class of ship, the Voyager of the Seas. I already know that it can't beat the Magic in many ways, but I know we will enjoy it, nonetheless.

 

[SandraLee]

SeaSpray. . . My sister just got off the Voyager. A great itinerary out of New Jersey north to Canada -- 5 nights.

Intersting, she said the ship was too BIG. I have to agree; ice skating on a ship is not a big deal for me. And, she likes the feel of the ocean and never felt it on the Voyager.

I am hoping for an Alaskan Radiance cruise in the summer of 2006. But my DD will only be 7 and I think that is too young for Alaksa. I might have to go to the southern carrib, insead.

I have generally heard nothing by GREAT things about the Voyager. I'm sure you will love it. But, it will be so different from the Magic.

 

[debster812]

Terry--you are a wise, wise woman.

Are you done with your trip report yet???

Debbie