Cruising Ultra-Luxury Taught Me 3 Eye-Opening Lessons!

[@blindhopeDiana]

Hi Gary, I was on Seabourn and was very lucky as a solo traveler to not have to pay the double occupancy. What I so very much love on these luxury lines is : everything is included. I could get any alcohol I desired, even for my cabin, less people means to me less chance of ship illness, great food, great service, smaller intimate ports, small group excursions.... usually no more than 8 to 10 people, fantastic private beach barbecue with fresh caught lobster, being ALONE in some parts of the ship as if it was myown yacht, I walked straight on the ship when boarding and escorted to my cabin, always available seating in dining room, by myself if I desired. I am not big on night life or shows, I have seen the best shows here living in Vegas, I don't gamble either. So for me, the quiet luxury and ease of boarding and great excursions sold me!

[@jomama5186]

I have never been, but would like to, at least once. I'm with you ! I think the smaller, but more expensive cruise, quieter, with better service is right up my alley! Thank you for your very valuable input. 🧡🙏

[@martyklestadt6766]

Totally agreed on many of your points.

[@sallyjune4109]

And no tipping!

[@DaveM-FFB]

This is so true. The last time we were on a megaship with 16+ floors, I tried to count the number of times that I waited for an elevator, only to see that the arriving elevator was already full. Needless to say that I lost count.

[@martyklestadt6766]

@@noname-JS Seabourn is great. I was on a cruise with them exactly one year ago from now. Very nice.

[@Michaela1942]

When I go on a cruise, the following is important to me (in no particular order): Sitting on my cabin's balcony and watching the ocean, peace and quiet, informational talks, perhaps a dance, perhaps a show, meeting interesting people, eating sensibly, seeing the sights in a relaxed manner. All this other stuff that you're talking about - sounds like an unpleasant visit to Magic Mountain or DisneyWorld.

[@claudiaweber4564]

Could be me!Agreeing 100%

[@anitas5817]

Same!!

[@robclark1597]

The other big advantage of the smaller, ultra-luxury ships is that there are no lines and it never feels crowded.

[@SwimminWitDaFishies]

Yes, you feel like a person vs like cattle

[@MrMightyytau]

My wife and I are Viking converts, bars and night life aren't our thing cultural experiences is what like and a smaller ship and every thing is included. And as he says the crew went out of there way to get to know the passengers

[@rmac5575]

@@MrMightyytauSame here. Absolutely love the quality of the decor as well! I wouldn’t choose it though with even our young adult kids. Too slow of a pace on board for them.

[@rbrachmann]

My biggest reason for the ultra-lux ships. I'm worth it.

[@rbrachmann]

@@MrMightyytau I've been thinking about Viking, but more for River Cruises. I've been on Viking.

[@highbaritone]

As a guest performer on many ships for about 20 years I understand most of the products. I also got to know the crew’s morale on the different lines. Since retiring we have cruised just on Seabourn and Silver Sea. Performing on the larger ships was always great. Big well equipped showrooms and control rooms. The thing is our favorite cruises were on the smaller ships as you got to know people, and the crew. Also the food was much better. Standard rooms start off at suite level. No long lines “anywhere”. If you are younger and have families then a small ship is not a great idea, even if they allow children, as there just isn’t enough for them to do. Really enjoy your posts. Thank you.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for adding these insights !!! And watching

[@yvonnetomenga5726]

@Tips for Travellers • Gary: This type of video where you compare the experience of different cruise lines with a comparable cost is very helpful. I found this video made it even easier to understand my choices than the video you did on big versus small ships. Keep cruising.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks! Great to hear. Will do more then 👍🏻

[@richwood2741]

It sounds like the real difference is if you are looking to be entertained or if you are just looking to go somewhere and enjoy the time without needing to have someone else entertain you. Having better staff really would be a great thing for me. I would not care if there were only a few places to eat on board. It is about the journey.

[@heatherhall7898]

So, same price after the nickel and diming, however none of the things I despise (too many people, go carts, cheap off off broadway productions, forced activities, and again a charge /high pressure sales EVERYWHERE). Phenomenal food, service, and access to exciting ports. I’ll take the floating luxury hotel. Leave the amusement park to Carnival.

[@cruiseforever1281]

Great job, Gary. I only sail on Seabourn and when I step onboard as a solo traveler, the crew becomes my family. I’ve been a guest at crew weddings and most dinners are with crew members. They design special excursions for me and give me delicious treats. Seabourn isn’t as fancy as the other smaller ships but it has become my home away from home.

[@CruisingWithDee]

I agree on picking based on destination and reason for the trip. When I’m in the Caribbean, I want a big ship with all the bells and whistles. When I’m going on a port-intensive trip, I’m much more interested in a smaller ship that can take me to ports off-the-beaten path. Choosing a smaller ship in Japan is a good idea-I have been to Japan on the Caledonian Sky, which was amazing, but I would have been sorely disappointed on that ship in the Caribbean!

[@kitthroneberry1577]

Exactly 👏

[@CarboneCat]

This is extremely interesting. It’s clear that itinerary and ports can be a major factor with which cruise line you pick.

[@jezanne]

Your channel is so informative. I choose a few years ago NOT to go on a cruise based on your channel. I realize it was not my kind of trip. However last year my sister and we decide to go in Antarctica. I was the one in charge of doing the research. We went with Lindblad/National Geographic Endurance. I based my choice on the small number of passenger and the presence of a lot of naturalist and a photograph from the National Geographic. Our trip was full of observation excursions and very informative talk. By the end of the trip all the passenger and the crew would know each other.

[@anitas5817]

Fabulous video, Gary! Such a good point to know your own priorities. I don’t care about any of the entertainment, karaoke, multiple bars, multiple specialty restaurants or any of that. What I am looking for is a quiet, relaxed, uncrowdwd, elegant experience, devoid of screaming, out of control children and drunk, rude people. I want to get on and off the ship for my excursions easily and quickly. I want quiet on my balcony. Small luxury ships are worth every penny to me, and they offer an experience that ship-within-a-ship areas on a big ship cannot. Smaller ports, smaller groups on excursions. We are sailing Greece with Ponant this fall on a Smithsonian tour - about 250 passengers.

[@trainattendant5810]

These last few years, most of my cruises have been aboard Viking Ocean, with the exception of one Discovery Princess cruise. Princess has changed so much over the 30 years I had been sailing them. The line is virtually unrecognizable from before. Those who sailed aboard the original Pacific/Island Princess know what I mean. My priorities are all about the crew interaction, food, service, attention to detail, & relaxing, minimally energized onboard experience. Viking is a higher price point than Princess, Celebrity, or Holland America, but it is worth every penny to me. I've noticed on my last two Viking cruises that younger people, couples & solos, are finding they prefer the smaller ships. This is great to see.

[@texasboy5117]

As I write this we are on the Viking Sky. I agree, Viking is our first choice of lines. We have tried both Regent and Seaborne and have always come back to Viking.

[@owensmith7530]

Gary seems to skip over Viking Ocean and go for lines either nominally above them (ultra luxury) or mass market lines below Viking.

[@owensmith7530]

@@texasboy5117 What do you find better about Viking than Regent or Seabourne? I've done two ocean cruises on Viking and not been with anyone else, the first (Baltic pre covid) was great but Istanbul to Athens post covid was a bit of a let down.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Yes agree on Princess! They have definitely moved to be large ship and more family / multi-generational. Viking is a great line as smaller ships, interesting itineraries and good service

[@owensmith7530]

@@tipsfortravellers I'm doing Alaska with Viking Ocean in June 2024. I know they don't get into Glacier Bay but they visit Hubbard Glacier instead, and I wanted a cruise longer than 7 days. Plus the changes to HAL in recent years have really put me off them, and they're the obvious choice for Alaska. Also doing Rocky Mountaineer pre extension with Viking for my mum's 80the birthday.

[@heather1980]

Gary I have to thank you so much. I did the CroisiEurope Mekong River cruise based on your recommendations. I had the best experience ever! There were only 5 English speakers on board, we got our own tour guide and a small van. I’m only 42 and the rest of my group averaged 78-we had a blast! I love your channel and I really appreciate your recommendations!

[@tipsfortravellers]

That’s great to hear!! On mine there were just 3 English first language speakers and having a private guide experience was great ! Glad you had a great time. It’s a fascinating area

[@brucerosner3547]

As usual you are right on. There are even larger ships. Recently cruised on a RCL 5000 passenger ship. Found more and better activities and entertainment (diving and ice shows for example) than on the 3000 passenger Princess, Celebrity or Holland ships. Service from the crew was similar but the food was a bit worse. My spouse also likes the smoother ride at sea on a big ship. I didn't realize the ultra-luxury ship cabins were that small. For us the tradeoff for a big ship is worth it. We have already been to many of the normal cruise ports so itinerary is less important; in fact we like longer trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific cruises where the shipboard activities and nightlife are the most important factors.

[@jaredheymann]

Spot on assessment, Gary. I've been lucky enough to try both ends of the spectrum and if ultra luxury is for you, its so hard to go back. For my wife and I, ultra personalized service, food/drink quality and the behavioral economics of cost structure is perfect for us. I would agree Regent et al truly shine in unique itineraries and we don't "waste" them on the Caribbean. Amazing video as always! Cheers.

[@fitfrog65]

We like Aqua class on Celebrity, even better than suite class. It's a good compromise with big ship amenities and a dedicated dining room with lighter fare and plenty of interaction with servers. In the old days we always got to know the people waiting on us and that's missing on today's mega ships. The Blue dining room allows time to get to know the people working. We also use the spa daily.

[@shawngallacher2231]

On a recent price comparison between the Celebrity Retreat and Silver Dawn we noticed the price was more expensive for the Celebrity cruise when you compared all the inclusions. We loved the smaller ship experience and high calibre of food and service.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Yes ! It’s definitely a trick / point many miss!

[@cliffnorman178]

Thanks for totally unbiased, informative and honest video Gary. All of that combined with your unique "style" of communication.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks ! Appreciate you watching as always !

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

Based on what you described in this video, I am fairly sure that I would prefer Regent Seven Seas over the other lines. Night life is not important for me at all. In the evenings, I would want to curl up with a good book, so entertainment does not really count for me. Thank you for the video! Have an amazing week!

[@dmitripogosian5084]

And I'll take one bar which is well stock that I can try at my leisure, to 11 bars with basic drinks I have to pay to

[@FraserAtSea]

I find your points on the similarities absolutely excellent - for some reason, I always thought the experience on these more 'premium' lines would be SO different to what I'd term the 'mass market' lines!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching! Yes it’s more the overall attention to details/ intimacy!

[@paulhill1796]

We sailed on Regent Seven Seas, and as we knew that on board daytime activities were limited, we chose a Mediterranean trip with ports virtually every day so that we weren't bored. The experience was similar to a viking river cruise. When I am older and less inclined to want to do a lot of activities, I will def sail a small high quality line again

[@janethunt4037]

My husband and I have never been on a cruise, but you are training us! We hope to go on one in a year or two.

[@tipsfortravellers]

I hope you do !

[@icross99]

We also did the overall cost comparison and totally agree. You are going to end up spending the same. So the question comes down to what kind of experience do you want? I love the small ship experience, more personal attention, and all-inclusiveness of the Regent product. Another advantage we have found with Regent (at least for North American passengers) is the included Business Class airfare on intercontinental flights. For example, we once were able to travel on Emirates Business Class from Toronto to Dubai as part of a Regent cruise. This was certainly not something we normally would have paid for ourselves!

[@admranger]

Were you able to have any input on the flights or just told "here's your flights"? We like to go a couple of days ahead of the cruise to get over jet lag and see the destination port a bit. Just curious if there was any flexibility or if they are rigid on flights. Thanks!

[@icross99]

@@admranger we normally chose our flights and ask Regent to book those as that gives us way more flexibility on seating and routes. There’s usually no problem as long as Regent has a contract with the carrier you choose. There is a deviation charge, however, which was $175 pp last time I checked. Well worth it in our opinion. If you simply accept Regent air you will likely find it is not direct and may have unacceptable stopovers.

[@paulcasey9236]

@@admranger Just to add, we are booked on RSSC Bangkok to Bali and flying from from Toronto. Called air dept at the start of open period [after paying the premium charge] and got 100% of my requests with no hassle at all with added benefit of going to Bangkok early. The Air Dept stated that booking early was key to getting my preferred arrangements. Looking forward to our 1st RSSc cruise.

[@guayames]

Just went for New Year cruise with Oceania Vista and the people were much more elegantly dressed that we have seen in other lines in the recent years! It was our 173rd cruise, and reminded us of cruising in the 1970s and 1980s or in Cunard.

[@hollybirge4087]

We really like small ship cruising for the reasons you noted. It’s quieter and more low key. I love that everything is included in the price so there is no upselling. So I pay the big bucks for ultra luxury to get those things.

[@kays749]

I cruise to enjoy the ocean. Give me a smaller ship where I can see the water from every window. Give me a ship I can walk from one end to the other without having to stop in the cabin for a nap.

[@tipsfortravellers]

I love smaller ships too

[@Mleencihols]

I so agree. I just completed a transatlantic cruise on Regent. I thought the service, food, and entertainment were on par but not better than what I experienced on Viking or Virgin. And I rate Viking much higher. The decor was dated, and the service was passable. I will never cruise on Regent again. I just booked a Viking Hawaiian cruise for December.

[@yukie_tn]

I've traveled on 2 ultra luxury cruises. I prefer getting a top tier suite on a big ship for the same price. The choice of facilities and shows were really the difference maker. You get just as pampered on the large ship for being a suite guest.

[@edwardklein5770]

Very nice video essay on the plusses and minusses of "ultra luxury" cruising. I think it's also convinced me that I'm most likely going to stay with "regular" cruise lines. For me, I think the food on Royal Caribbean is plenty good and I've never been tempted to spend on the extra cost restaurants on those ships already. I also already consider the service to be a nice and not overbearing balance. Still, maybe when I get older and want to explore some more exotic itineraries (Japan does sound intriguing for a cruise), these smaller and more luxury focused lines will be something I keep on my radar. Thanks!

[@Bobrogers99]

I would prefer the "small-ship" experience. Everything paid for up front. The opportunity to truly interact with staff. Small tour groups. A cozy cabin. Why have so many choices that you won't have a chance to try them all? If I want infinite choices, mobs of people, and glitz and glamour, I'll go to Las Vegas.

[@shade0762]

Did you include the Business Class Airfare that is included in Regent fare as well as the pre cruise hotel if you book concierge class in your cost comparison. The Business Class Airfare and included excursions is what sealed the deal for us when comparing Celebrity Sky Suite to Regent Seven Seas Concierge Class

[@texasboy5117]

Great point the BC flight takes just about 10K “off” the cost.

[@deniselanglois6193]

Who arranges all this for you ? A travel agent ? Or do u take care of everything -

[@mikekhim5491]

Traveled in a suite on Seabourn (a standard suite). Love the walk in closet, great food (Thomas Keller had a restaurant on board) but I find myself looking forward to traveling on a suite on Celebrity because of the options it offered. The Celeb cruise is in august so I guess it remains to be seen is which I prefer.

[@lesleywaghorn1627]

I agree that the itinerary and onshore experience are important factors. My ideal would be a classic cruise ship, like HAL or Cunard, that could get to the ports only a smaller ship can access😊

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching! Good to hear you agree!

[@guayames]

After 166 cruises since the Stella Solaris in 1975, agree 100% But prefer long cruises that leave and return to Florida!

[@rogerdodger8415]

Imagine all the great cruise channels we have here on KZbin. But you don't have to imagine who's the best!! Gary, you're the greatest!

[@tomsunday]

Thanks for all of the details Gary! I was always interested in the difference between ultra luxury and main stream lines. This video hit the spot for me. I don't think I will ever be able to afford these price tags but I certainly appreciate the details. The food looked fantastic! 😋

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks ! Great to hear as I was hoping it would 👍🏻

[@stefanschneider3681]

I wrote it before, but I gladly repeat myself: I never went on a cruise and certainly won't in the next few years - and still enjoy watching your videos very much! You give me a view into acompletely unknown world. Your opinion is always well balanced. And since over the years you have so many other cruises to compare with your explanations are always exceptionally specific. You never say "It's no good" (except if the afternoon tea is shady 😉), instead you say "This is what you get here for this amount of money, but at the end it's your choice". Well done!

[@rbrachmann]

I did SilverSeas about 2 years ago and I'm doing them again this month. Expensive? Yes as I'm traveling solo, but the solo premium was only 25% more. First time was Greek Islands. This time, the western Med and Morocco. I love the personalized service. I was amazed after the 1st day that a lot of crew could address me by name and knew my tastes. My butler did my unpacking and when I returned from a shore excursion, would appear with Champaign and caviar. Excursions were kept small and it never felt like thousands of people trying to get off or on the ship at port. I paid nothing except for souvenirs and even though it's included, I gave extra to my butler who saved me when I forgot to pack my tie by lending me one of his own, as an example. Yes, the shows were mediocer and smaller, but other than that, I loved it. FYI, after your trip to the Galapagos Islands, I think I will to that for my 70th birthday in 2025 with SilverSeas.

[@teresaalbin-davis4529]

The Galapagos were amazing. Every photo looks like it belongs in National Geographic.

[@deniselanglois6193]

Which ship were u on

[@deniselanglois6193]

Would u take a high end ship to Alaska

[@rbrachmann]

@@deniselanglois6193 Silver Moon. I've been on it twice (just worked out that way).

[@rbrachmann]

@@deniselanglois6193 I don't like cold. Not every. I'll do almost anything, but Alaska and Antarctica aren't on my bucket list. I hear Alaska and Antarctica are expeditions which is very physically demanding, but I could be wrong.

[@peterjaro6804]

I love cruising SO much, but I have found that there are places that are better visited by land or by air (traditional travelling!) than by cruise ship. Unless you are on a river cruise on Seine for example, you should not visit Paris from a cruise ship, because that would involve a LONG bus-ride from the port and back, over a landscape that don't have the beauty of Provence. and you will be disapointed in the short time you get in Paris. Then its much better to do a daytrip from London by train, or fly in from any place in the world. Also, to my big surprice, Hawaii is WAY better visiting the traditionally way by flying in and out. I went on a segment of a world cruise specifically to include Hawaii, thinking it would be the perfect way to visit... but it was not. If I'd known what I know today, I would have combined a holiday on the US west coast with a fly-in visit yo Hawaii, or flown straight there and back... Also, if you like to see Maccu Piccu in Peru, don't do it from a cruise ship (usually from the port of Callau). You will be ushered and stressed the whole day for a 45 minute visit(yes really!)... so sadly, not ALL places in the world benefit from visiting with a cruise ship.

[@mikeb2777]

A very well balanced review. We want to take an Azamara immersion cruise that stays in ports for a couple of days. Nice having lots of choices for varied experiences.

[@vickiphillips4876]

And they can dock close to your destination. Seville with Azamara is the trip to try . Amazing!

[@CCB249]

The only reason I cruise is for the excursions. I like very healthy food, so most food on a cruise line is wasted on me. Same with alcohol. Learning about the area in which I am cruising is extremely important to me. So is exercise. I like to spend sea days working out in the gym. Doing a lot of walking is great for me. So the smaller the ship and the better the excursions, the better.

[@jcsmith7898]

I focus on the salad bar and would like to find a line that has exemplary salad and vegetables and no oil😊

[@Scott-pe6te]

Great advice as always. I prefer the premium lines (i.e., Celebrity and Holland America) for the reasons you state. But more and more, I pick a cruise primarily on the destinations (e.g., I don't need to see Naples, Barcelona, Pisa, etc. yet again and I find the main Caribbean ports disappointing). The smaller ships can go to more and different ports than the larger, premium ones can. For instance, in the fall I will go from New York to Montreal on Seabourn to see the autumn leaves. While I look forward to the Seabourn experience, the reality is that Celebrity ships (good as they are) are too large to travel up the St. Lawrence Seaway to Montreal. So the itinerary is what sold the cruise for me.

[@DaveM-FFB]

We've had many cruises on Princess. Recently we sailed on Oceania Riviera because we wanted to try a smaller ship with more inclusions. Bottom line, Oceania has become our 2nd home. It's a perfect fit for us. Finest cuisine at sea, in our opinion, and great attention to detail.

[@bobcarr5497]

I'm glad your cruise on Oceania was great! My wife and I sail on Oceania for the first time in December on there newest ship Vista. I believe we have chatted before recently but before your trip on Oceania? Anyway glad you had a great time.

[@BarbaraGordley]

We have only taken Seabourn, Silverseas, Regent and Oceania. I had been thinking about trying one of the big ships but your video has persuaded me that we should stick to the ultra luxury level. The crowding, noise and the possibility of having to wait in lines would really spoil the cruise experience.

[@143mal1]

So pleased you mentioned Mark, Gary. My husband and I (!) have kind of given up the ships. When Hapag Lloyd lost its shine for us we knew time was UP!

[@Mariazellerbahn]

The elephant in the room though, is a small ship costs as much to run as a larger ship, but due to carrying less passengers, those costs are split between less people. I'd rather have the smaller ships with less hustle and bustle.

[@briannelson3686]

Thanks for this video Gary. I really enjoy your channel, advice and perspectives. The elements you mention about a premium line versus a more standard cruise line did not hold for my experience on Seabourn a year ago. The service was better than say Cunard, overall, but I was treated with indifference a couple of times and quite rudely once, which really surprised me (and I always try to be as polite as possible as the crew works very hard). I would say only about 25% of the meals I would qualify as being good, the rest were either tasteless or almost inedible, and I like just about everything. I actually lost eight pounds on the Seabourn trip!! I'm glad I did it, but back to Cunard on QM2 for a transatlantic crossing, which this will be the sixth (two on QE2), and all of these crossings I have thoroughly enjoyed!

[@johndantzman7662]

Thank you for the comparison of the different types of cruise lines. After hearing your review we will stick to Holland America, RC or Princess. We enjoy the onboard entertainment that those cruise lines offer. We especially enjoy the classical music offered on the Lincoln Center Stage on Holland America. And Mass. I have not heard of other cruise lines offering those events.

[@monkeygirl55]

Taking my first Silversea cruise this Summer. I think I will enjoy the smaller quieter ship.

[@callingallports]

Great video, Gary! We’ve also just cruises on Regent and Holland America, essentially back to back. We second many of your main arguments. One thing we experienced differently was the presence of the officers. While the Regent Splendor officers would show up at the usual main event, it seemed mostly for show and they weren’t very social. In contrast, on HAL Nieuw Amsterdam, officers seemed to be everywhere and were very approachable. HAL’s cruise director held a number of Q&As with officers and crew members that were small and intimate. And the captain was even getting down on the dance floor in BB Kings on Orange Night! Not sure if the size of the Splendor affected the interactions with officers, but it was definitely different from when we we sailed on Mariner years ago.

[@StayWildWanderlust]

Hi Gary, Last year I did a cruise to Norway on Holland America's Rotterdam and we purchased an aft view cabin as well as Club Orange and the Have it All package. It was one of the best vacation experiences of my life and having the intimate Club Orange dining venue made a huge difference. The experience was much like what you explain here in regards to the dining experience on the ultra luxury line. The Maitre d and server knew our names and treated us like royalty. We had the same table that we loved each time we went to eat, they knew our names, our likes and dislikes, they were friendly and took the time to talk to us and we're always smiling and sweet. If you haven't done a video about Club Orange I truly wish you would. It also includes a cabin upgrade, priority embarkation and disembarkation, priority on tenders and included a dedicated customer service line.

[@peterjaro6804]

Your video's are always informative and interresting, but this was one of your best. On this subject I'm with Mark. Not that I have an issue with Ultra Lux and 'small ship' feelings BUT when it comes to what you get for the money... I don't feel that more interaction with staff justify the GIGANTIC difference in price... even with everything(!) included. I have had some very interresting discussions with cabin staff's on HAL too, without the price difference. If the WHOLE experience had been worth the 1.500 / day price tag, then fine. To me its not so muvh the price itself, but what you GET for your hard earned money. ...so even if my own ecperience on Ultra Luxury Cruise Lines has been very good, it has never been worth the money... so from now on; its HAL, Princess or Haven on Norwegian for me.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks ! Much appreciated. Great to hear your thoughts as definitely agree

[@dbenadon]

Gary, another great video . We are avid Haven travelers and this video confirms our choice. We love the level of service and exclusivity, but really enjoy the big ship activities. Hope we can cross paths someday!

[@cydneystephen2814]

Omg. I’m listening and you just said $1200 - $1500/night? That’s the cost of a 7-day cruise on Carnival/Royal/Norwegian/MSC/ some Princess and Celebrity. All great comparisons. Thanks so much Sir Gary.

[@gavrielgavriel]

I'll be honest I like the way you share your experience. A lot of comparisons. It is only a second clip but I really see that I get a lot! Thank you.

[@theonlymrkevin]

Thank you so much for this detailed analysis! I've had this same question for a couple of years. Dollar for dollar, it ultimately comes down to what I want from the cruise. Well done! ❤️

[@jenna6149]

This sounds like exactly what I would want from a vacation. I am not a party person, food is by far one of the most important things on a trip, and I like the more personalized staff. I will have to look into something like this more.

[@John-wx2ce]

Good video Gary, One thing that I would add, is that the ease of getting on and off the ship is vastly better on smaller ships - which are almost always higher end. We booked two suites on the Grand Princess for an Alaska cruise and getting off at the ports was an absolute nightmare, standing in line for over an hour. Even worse on tender ports. This despite the “priority” front of line privileges that were supposed to come with suites, which did not happen.

[@Randilynn66]

My wife and I received a Regent catalog today, we never requested one. I was flabbergasted at the prices. I think we’ll stay with Oceania

[@davidh9844]

Sadly, we've been spoiled by the quality of service on the smaller lines than on the larger ships. But it stands to reason that a ship that sleeps 5000 will be cheaper to travel on compared to one with a passenger roster 0f 700. I found it interesting that in the beginning of the vid, you implied that regardless of the ship/ticket cost, they are all provide essentially the same experience, and that "luxury" comes down to not walking off the ship with a high bill for extras. We've had two cruises on Celebrity, ships sleeping 2500+, and could not stand the nickel and diming that is non existent on Azamara. And what was non existent on Azamara was the noise, the screaming kids running everywhere, the splashing in the pools, and I can go on. Azamara has two specialty restaurants. Celeb. Millennium had about 7 or 8, all with absurdly high surcharges, AND add insult to injury, they charged $5 for a cup of coffee at the end of the meal, after that $70 surcharge, PER PERSON! Yes, if we added up all of the up-charges, coffee, alcohol, surcharges, I'm sure the fare would still have been under the comparable Azamara fare. Perhaps by as much as $300 in the end. But we aren't going into a suite on a Carnival ship to make up for the experience of slumming it. I might consider it for Norwegian or Holland, but I'll stick to middle level, luxury lines, thank you. I live in a wonderful, comfortable home, great bar, amazing sheets, (towels are a bit threadbare). My vacations must greatly exceed the value I get by staying home and watching KZbin videos! As always, I really appreciate as well as enjoy your videos. All the best!

[@danieldumas7361]

David, Thank you so much for taking the time to elaborate on the difference an extra "0" can make. I'm certain that your dissertation, added to Gary's video, will help first-timers (like I was, once) make the right decision for themselves. As for myself, 1,500 was the top number that was recommended by my learned friends. D

[@shellyvick6300]

"Slumming it.." :) Well, maybe on Carnival...

[@JosieJOK]

If I had the money, I’d certainly pay the extra for ultra-luxury for the quiet and lack of crowds. That alone would make it worth it to me! The smaller excursions, exemplary service, and lack of the ubiquitous nickel-and-diming that you describe would be icing on the cake!

[@danieldumas7361]

@@JosieJOK To paraphrase British Airlines; "The onnnly way to Cruise!"

[@irenegryziec8052]

Great perspective (as always Gary). Will be in Alaska this summer, and after itinerary/time in port, it was the mixed needs of my travelling party that led me to book NCL Haven. Will be with a different mix for plans to Japan & think small ship will be the way to go. You have taught me lots & I greatly appreciate your informative & pithy videos. Happy sailing!!

[@barryhaley7430]

Just love your balanced considered reporting!

[@alladreamwedreamed]

I appreciate your candor. Many travel YTers are overly positive in their reviews and it makes me think they aren't being honest bc they got comped. You seem to always be honest!

[@tipsfortravellers]

I don't do any free or press trips :-) That means I never have to worry about or think about keeping anyone happy other than my viewers 9as it is you and them that pay fro me to cruise from the ads that KZbin runs)...

[@ThatSilverSeaYankee]

I am still watching your videos forgot to make a post about my first cruise ever but had a ball! However, I agree with the destination. I want my second cruise to be an Italy trip that goes to ports all around the "Boot" and very few lines I have found an itinerary im happy with except Silversea, yet again. I do think you are right the shows onboard can be mediocre at best and or just small as well rooms can be smaller but amenities the same but as you point service, atmosphere, no lines and busy-ness, I too enjoy those things and am working very hard to continue my new love of cruising in that style! Thank you for continuing to post, I thoroughly enjoy watching you!

[@KateandBree]

The off the beat, small group excursions is definitely why we’ve picked Regent for both Caribbean cruises (along with the food! There’s a reason the steakhouse is so popular!) We’re not traditional travelers in the least; we prefer learning culture and history over doing your typical swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, beach bumming excursions. We get to do so many of these on Regent and we’re often so tired the night entertainment isn’t important to us. We’d rather watch an episode of something and sleep. I’m doing Alaska with my dad in 2025 on HAL so it’s going to be interesting. I’ve never been on a “regular” cruise line so we’ll see how well I handle the noise. 😂

[@elaineshelton8006]

I sometimes think people who chose the huge cruise ships to spend up large on alcohol while partying under all the flashing coloured lights by night, then riding the adrenaline producing playground rides and slides by day (not to mention having to manoeuvre through endless crowds of fellow cruisers ) must ultimately arrive home in need of another holiday. 😂 Give me peace,fine food and pampering. Something Oceania delivers with a comfortable finesse. 👍

[@mehitabel6564]

Very interesting. I am really only interested in cruises that are focussed on destinations, especially smaller ports, and allow more time to explore. The onboard stuff apart from food and cabin is rather uninteresting to me. I'm more keen on an easy, comfortable and delicious way to go port to port.

[@Marshal_Dunnik]

The introduction of ship-within-a-ship has really changed the calculus. It's sort of like taking the Seven Seas Navigator and dropping her into the atrium of the Oasis-class (she'd probably fit!). It does seem like ports are the crux of the matter. Even the biggest of ultra-luxury ships are small enough to dock in less-explored ports, or closer to the action.

[@ChrisBrooke-l8i]

This is an exact repeat of what I was going to write. The ship within a ship seems to be the best compromise and the cruise lines know it with most of the new ships designed for it. As a married 66 year old, you couldn't get me on a boring ultra luxury cruise outside of the better food advantage.

[@MrToryhere]

This is not really true. A service provider that only provides a luxury service is always going to be better than one that provides services to a wide range of tastes. Earlier this year some friend cruised in the Haven. They usually t cruise on ultra luxury ships. They said the Haven was OK, but they were underwhelmed by the level of service and the fact that they had to go through the rest of the ship to reach the exclusive section. But the thing they missed most of all was actually feeling like they were at sea at all. The Haven was so far away from the ocean that they might as well have been in a four star hotel on land. My friends also noticed that they were treated differently in the ports on this cruise. When they one of only 100 passengers on a SeaDream cruise they were treated with a great deal of respect, even in a busy port when there other ships visiting on the same day. However, when they were just two of thousands aboard an NCL ship, they didn’t get anywhere near the same level of service on shore. The fact that they had an expensive suite made no difference when they were off the ship.

[@kathywest7205]

Thank you Gary, excellent video! I’ll choose a small ship every time and I’ve been on both!

[@cherifurr3935]

Me too!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Agree !

[@jdoe836]

Gary is the Rick Steves of cruise ships!

[@maddyandhank]

So excited to see your videos Gary! Heading on my first cruise on the Scenic Eclipse II in 14 days and these videos are making me so eager to embark!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching !!! Have a great trip

[@achromatic03]

I hounded a travel agent a bit to get an apples to apples comparison between balcony cabins on NCL vs Silverseas, to Alaska and all in all, it wasn't that bad of a difference--like $100 per day per person. Seems worth it for the all inclusive experience with better service and small excursion groups.

[@tuvia4082]

As always, great information, great video editing. Thanks Gary!

[@pleiadesneptunes]

Interesting point about the choice and the programs…but this is actually what many people look for (myself included), less is often more! Thanks for this interesting and excellent look into the upper segment of cruises! To the point - and we can make up our own minds.

[@samuelstern5593]

Just got off the RSSC Splendor, and I absolutely love Regent for the service and food (and included tours!)

[@nildamager1649]

We love Regent cruises. Great food,service , and staff. Small … about 350 cabins .. very relaxing.

[@barbarameyer649]

We are booked on oceania in September. Got a ridiculously cheap fare for a porthole cabin. We usually cruise mass-market lnes but wanted to try one luxury cruise. And of course the food...

[@ciarankelly4338]

Gary,thank you for this information as I was considering Seabourn for next cruise versus the bigger ships!

[@bunkie2100]

We are going to Japan this year on Holland in a Neptune suite. As this is a repositioning cruise, the more active nightlife is a major plus. Our last cruise was on Viking and the lack of things to do in the evening (when two of the port stops were canceled due to weather) was an issue.

[@norale9985]

My experience with similar with Viking - there was very little for activities when ports were canceled or we had unexpected days at sea- and the entertainment at night was the same thing. repeated over and over again. It seems they could’ve done things differently- i.e. it would’ve been fairly easy to expand their trivia game, typically did one round in about 20 minutes - I don’t think it would’ve been that hard to do two or three rounds. Some type of theater experience rather than the same singer or piano player over and over again.

[@amybradley5821]

Love HAL Neptune suites! Have fun.😊

[@vincemcclenny3998]

Good Day Gary, We are cruising this Christmas Down Under on Regent then in April we will be on Celebrity in Hawaii-Vancouver. As someone who now exclusively cruises on Regent and in the Celebrity Retreat, I think your comments are in line with ours. If we want to spend many days afloat, we choose Celebrity Retreat. If we are looking for unique ports and excursions with fewer participants, we choose Regent. In addition to your observations, the similarities in Celebrity Retreat and Regent dining and personalized experience is close to the same. The biggest differences for us are 1) Regent is all inclusive including business airfare for international travel which means that I don't have to do a thing but show up to the airport and they take it from there, 2) The Regent Explorer class ships have an onboard cooking school and since we are foodies, we put a premium on the experience of cooking school even if it is an additional cost. We have compared the cost of a similar size suite on Regent and Celebrity Retreat. We have found that when you add business airfare, specialty dining, and limited size excursions the cost is not that much different.

[@spydude38]

Great comparison Gary! We love Viking for exactly those reasons you highlighted about Regent. Smaller ships, higher quality of service and very personalized as well as fantastic food in an all-inclusive price.

[@jomofl]

You will love Explorer! Our first Regent was on Mariner, similar to Navigator. Next was Explorer in the Mediterranean and we are booked on her again for Alaska this summer. Loved it. Same fabulous food and service but a little larger and Pacific Rim restaurant in addition. 😊

[@admranger]

Thank you for this. I have been contemplating taking a smaller cabin on a luxury line vs. a suite on Celebrity like usual. This provided the insight I needed to help inform my decision making process!

[@KVDC2008]

Another great video! If a consumer is not price sensitive, it all comes down to preference. Larger ships have more facilities and entertainment. Smaller ships offer better service and food. For me, it is all about the date of departure, destination and ports. We have to go by our child's school schedule and that is one major restriction on the cruise options we have. I do agree that it's nice to have a very large suite on the main cruise lines versus the standard size suites on the smaller luxury cruise ships. There is just something nice about being able to walk around the cabin and not feel constricted. There were times when we were on our Silversea cruise that we wished had a bigger cabin. The size of the cabin didn't match up to having butler service, because our butler had to squeeze through the room to deliver our meals and at times like that we wished we had a larger cabin for the price we paid. So, when a cruise opportunity aligns with our schedule and we can choose a large size suite, that is a bit of a treat for us.

[@ParkSloper]

Look forward to comparing notes on Japan as my wife and I will be traveling on Celebrity at the same time. Also taking your advice and sailing Oceania Vista to the Eastern Med next year. Seems like Celebrity, NCL are all trying to sail 3000+; we are finding we are not fans. Will need to do some home work on jumping up even another level.

[@docsmctink]

Excellent comparison Gary…as all of your videos! I enjoy relaxing in the evening with music or ready after a busy day. I agree the food is at the top!! Many thanks😍

[@lizbethlee3833]

I’ve only cruised twice. You’re very informative videos are so helpful. Planning a cruise in a few years with my granddaughter round trip from Sydney around New Zealand. I’m sharing your videos with her so she can do some research and I’ll do some research and then we just have to save money. It will be interesting what we come up with since I’m in my mid 70s and she’s in her mid-20s.

[@annedon776]

I think at times the higher price cruise lines could possibly and I say possibly could keep the wild people and those who don’t know how to behave. Celebrity has become a drunk fest, will never go on that line again. Not always the case but this is what I have found.

[@ZForce5496]

I guess I am looking at this differently because I am not a “cruise person”, but my limited experience with cruises has me on the side of luxury. I am more a port person than a ship person. I don’t need a huge room because I don’t spend much time in it. I don’t need a million actives on board because I am taking shore excursions. Sure I can do those actives on sea days - and wait for hours in line to ride the water slide or find out the ritzy people in the “ship within a ship” suites have booked all the good stuff months before the cruise set sail. I like not having to calculate the cost of every beverage I consume. I like a good karaoke night or trivia day, but i am a day person. I am not likely to stay up late for shows or dancing and partying all night. Plus I find being on a ship with thousands of people to be overwhelming and also makes me more likely to deal with rude and inconsiderate people (on small ships you are more likely to see the same people all the time, so you start to remember faces, so you try to make good impressions). I also found the food to be so much better on the luxury ships. It seems like an unfair comparison to say mass market ships have more bars and restaurants. I mean, if you have fewer people on the ship, you don’t need 11 bars. Of course these things aren’t always a choice. My time on luxury ships was paid for by others. If I am paying for my own cruise, it’s the cheap seats on a mass market ship and I still manage to have a great time,🎉

[@skylineuk1485]

The smaller ships with great food and service on intensive itineraries suit best is our thoughts too. If doing the usual repeat on Med/Greece/Caribbean etc the big ships are better and in fact when the itineraries are the same as past ones the big ships let you feel not so bad about maybe just having a walk around the port and local town.

[@Mleencihols]

After over 20 cruises on other lines, I booked my first Regent cruise for September. It will be transatlantic. My business class airfare was included to Barcelona. Huge savings, excursions, drinks, wi-fi, food, gratuities, etc. I am really looking forward to the elevated experience. And the absence of any hidden costs at the end of the cruise...

[@gottuso]

Love ya Gary. All the best to you and Mark. Be well!

[@nathen4021]

Royal Carribean is one of the worst that they focus on the size of the ships with 3000+ passenger capacity, crowded pool areas, rowdy kids, understaffed services, guest service rachial is much greater than Silversea's 1:1 (you call your butler in your suite and get no or delayed service due to understaffing). Like I said, the "regular" lines have ships that are way too big for the experience people seek paying the extra higher fares to go. Its like, why would you want to go on this big ship with over 3000+ other passengers on not really having the experience that you would expect on a cruise vacation.

[@janetswain703]

Hi Gary, I experienced two things I have never had happen on previous cruises that happened on last week's disappointing RCL cruise. I enjoy following your KZbin videos and I was hoping you might find time to address. It would be helpful to know how you might of handled these instances. Number 1, I was a single passenger on this cruise (which I have done often) and RCL sat me at an empty table for 10 people. I didn't enjoy my evening dining experience at all. Needless to say, dress to impress night turned into pizza night. Number 2, on my first day of the cruise, the lady in the balcony next to mine leaned over the railing to peer into my cabin. When she saw I was shocked and startled she just laughed and said "I'm just checking things out". I was so paranoid of her behavior I couldn't enjoy my balcony or leave my curtains open the entire trip the way I enjoy. I would have asked others at my dinner table that evening if that behavior is common - Oh, but wait, I sat with 9 empty chairs!

[@thomasvanantwerp728]

This happened to me on my very first Celebrity cruise. I was seated alone at a table set for ten! I stayed and ate, but never went back to the dining room. I ate exclusively in the buffet! Who does this.... gives a solo traveler a table meant for ten?????!!!

[@TheJohnebey]

@@thomasvanantwerp728 I cannot imagine experiencing that. Crazy

[@barryhaley7430]

Reminds me of upscale River Cruises

[@faithmoore7520]

Holland America Neptune suite sounds really good.yet Service and quality food means everything to me!

[@SwimminWitDaFishies]

Gary, your distinguished British accent and amazing graphics and informative content really makes your videos so enjoyable to watch! Have you ever done one of those yacht cruises? There's one offered by Ritz Carlton.

[@rockingnp]

I have looked into Regent and Oceania as they are other NCL products. Regent now offers round trip business class flights for two with each booking. I did the math and it’s about the same as our upcoming 10 days cruise on NCL to the Mediterranean plus round trip business class. I really enjoy your videos and pro and cons of each line and category.

[@MiaHessMusic]

Thank you, Gary!! Such an excellent channel. Your channel is absolutely one of my favorites!!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching!!! Great to hear

[@MiaHessMusic]

@@tipsfortravellers it would be so cool if you made a video on how to vlog on a cruise or in a port. I'm really interested and I think others would be as well. I haven't found a video on how to do that!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Happy to! Would be great if you gave me some questions or issues so I can make sure I cover it as needed!

[@MiaHessMusic]

@@tipsfortravellers First of all, a huge THANK YOU!! What equipment do you bring? I'm imaging it goes in your carry-on luggage. Do you just shot video or do you also take photos? How do you set up shots where you are walking say towards the camera on the ship or of yourself in ports? How did you video, say, your waitress in this particular video? Or wait staff, stewards etc. Do you bring microphones? Do you plan your shots or is it more serendipitous? Do you mostly just shoot video because you'll edit it at home? How do you back up your videos/photos while on your vacations? When you went dog-sledding or on the heliocopter, did you use something like a GoPro? What advice would you give to beginning travel or cruise vloggers?

[@Retiredtraveler1961]

Gary, I love your videos, I would gladly change the experience to go on Seaborn to avoid the crowds everywhere