I Put A Royal Caribbean's First Class Owner Suite To The Test!

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  • Опубліковано 15 чер 2024
  • When I think of Royal Caribbean, I think of feature-packed mega resort ships, with good value cabins. However, I have seen Royal Caribbean now has some of the biggest and most expensive suites money can buy at sea.
    So, instead of using some savings to book a smaller luxury cruise line that I usually would, I decided to splash that cash on a Royal Caribbean suite to see if I would get all the service, glitz, and glamour they promise in their “Royal Class Suites”.
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    00:00 Start
    00:45 What did $10,000 get me?
    01:12 Issue: Not all suites equal
    03:36 Issue: Not A Suite Area
    04:30 Issue: What Worked and Did Not
    13:20 Issue: Stacks up versus alternatives?

КОМЕНТАРІ • 160

  • @texasboy5117
    @texasboy5117 7 місяців тому +18

    While the big suite is nice, the crowded ship is a deal killer. We will stick with the Viking "penthouse veranda stateroom" at 338 square feet, which is perfect for us, with the small couch and chair. And no children and a quite non crowed ship.

  • @bensa6016
    @bensa6016 7 місяців тому +24

    In my opinion, Malin+Goetz is a great choice for toiletries. They are definitely a respectable brand. A medium sized bottle of shampoo is around 21 pounds in the uk, which is cheaper than for example Hermes, but definitely more expensive than your average shampoo. I first came across them in a suite of a 5 star Le Meridian hotel and I went back to buy their Le Meridian line, because I found out after check out that the scents were exclusive to Le Meridian and I loved them.

  • @gratefultube
    @gratefultube 7 місяців тому +40

    More square feet in the suite would not appeal to me compared to a small suite, small (fewer than 500) number of guests, and big choices for meals. Thank you, Gary, for helping me wise up.

    • @MrWiggenhammer
      @MrWiggenhammer 7 місяців тому

      I was thinking the same. I am glad to have booked with crystal for 2024. It's "just a stateroom" but I know the service will be great and the ship will be quiet.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  6 місяців тому +1

      Yes definitely agree that is the decision/ trade off around what’s important

  • @theglobalvagabond3074
    @theglobalvagabond3074 7 місяців тому +10

    Great Review. It's amazing the RC would limit you to one WiFi device after spending that much money.

  • @cruiseforever1281
    @cruiseforever1281 6 місяців тому +3

    I’m a Seabourn person preferring its small size and extraordinarily service. You did an excellent job showing how the little things are more than price. Thank you for an insightful and honest review..

  • @bluelab5019
    @bluelab5019 7 місяців тому +5

    I don't think you can beat Celebrity Retreat for the suite service and perks. I absolutely love that cruise line

  • @Carol_in_Spain
    @Carol_in_Spain 7 місяців тому +12

    In 2009 we were on Voyager of the Seas in the Royal Suite. On that class of ship there was only one suite in this category.
    Looking at your video, it appears that our experience was much different to yours.
    On embarkation we were met by an officer and taken aboard via a separate gangway.
    Our suite was enormous and even included a grand piano.
    Throughout the cruise we were treated like royalty.
    It was a wonderful experience and one I will never forget.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  7 місяців тому +3

      Yes the Star level of suites gets all
      Of that !

  • @ninayablok3313
    @ninayablok3313 7 місяців тому +17

    Gary, Love your videos. Also I am a large ship person and a Royal Caribbean suites person. One thing you missed. Deck 17 on the Oasis class ships is sort of a ship within the ship. The cabin staff there are similar to the luxury lines as they only have suites, and few of them, to attend to.

  • @walterplant2957
    @walterplant2957 7 місяців тому +7

    To me the point of having a larger room is that I spend more time in it and less in the public areas . I would have been on that balcony not looking for a spot on the public deck . I find Cunard the right mix ; take a suite , get some privileges , a lot of personal recognition from the crew with a bit of enrichment thrown in

  • @gilbydog7350
    @gilbydog7350 7 місяців тому +4

    That food from the Coastal Kitchen looked very simple for a suites-only restaurant. I could make most of that at home easily.

  • @jobee1
    @jobee1 7 місяців тому +4

    Royal is great for young cruisers and families, so many fun things to do and the entertainment is top notch. As an older cruiser it’s a big disappointment. We went on Symphony in a suite, costs about $25,000 and my experience was similar to yours. No real perks or nicer treatment, no real areas to relax in, I had to present my cruise card every single time I wanted a drink or attend a show and yes I know those are small things that we can do without but I just did a smaller suite for a fraction of the price on MSC yacht club and was treated like royalty, never had to show my card, in fact I only carried it with me when I left yacht club. Everything was included even my gratuities. I have three more cruises booked on MSC, they know what their customers want and don’t bankrupt them for it. My daughter loves Royal and I’m glad because she has a wonderful time, she gets what she wants and isn’t that what we all want?

  • @briangasser973
    @briangasser973 7 місяців тому +4

    I agree fresh flowers, replacing water daily, more l fruit/treats,... would be a small price to elevate the luxury feeling.

  • @CaptScott-ff6mf
    @CaptScott-ff6mf 7 місяців тому +6

    Thank you for the comparison. I've heard that simply crunching dollar for dollar, the luxury ships are the same as top end suites on the big ships. I've been wanting to see dollar for dollar comparisons that also factor in the suite size. $/pp/day/sq ft. But you also go into the other details that can make a big difference in the overall experience. Much appreciated.

  • @andrewmathewson441
    @andrewmathewson441 6 місяців тому +2

    I was in one of the Suites on the maiden voyage for Symphony of the Seas. Your review is so spot on. The Coastal Kitchen was lovely, but not enough. The cabin staff were actually intrusive in my opinion. For some reason, they seemed interested in hanging out and chatting. I felt uncomfortable in telling them to take a hike. But boy did I want to. Room position relative to the overall ship is insanely important. Though I had booked a large suite that overlooked the aft entertainment area/pool, it took at least 12 minutes to get anywhere because the ship is so large. So just ask yourself, is the location important to you. I wish I spent my money on one of the premium lines. But again, you did a great job of offering a valid, balanced review and I thank you for it.

  • @oona9874
    @oona9874 7 місяців тому +5

    Spot on when you say it’s not luxury/pampering and that is more that you don’t have to deal with the downsides of cruising on a massive ship! We just returned from Harmony and had a CLS, we loved the suite and all the space it provided and being able to get away from the crowds was quite nice-I will say that it did feel a little more ship within a ship staying in the CLS as the
    only thing we needed to leave that area for was the suite deck. For us it was perfect, all expects were met and worth the price

  • @wfpdoc
    @wfpdoc 7 місяців тому +13

    I agree with your observations of RC suite class. Our last cruise in July was our first (and likely last) RC cruise. The prices are a bit more reasonable but the personalized service was significantly lacking - a service I value highly. In addition, I didn't think the food quality or selection was up to the standards of suites on other cruise lines. That said, Celebrity is our choice of cruise line and, as you likely know, their suite class service is exceptional. There is really no comparison. And as you said, it's really the small things - having bottles of Evian water stocked in our refrigerator daily, housekeeping arriving upon demand, daily fruit (often so much we are unable to eat it all), Luminae Restaurant, The Retreat... The list goes on and on. By the end of our second day, our waiters and butler knows us by name and for dinner, brings our chosen drinks to our table as we arrive. One final observation, on our last Celebrity cruise, my wife uses a CPAP machine. Our butler must have noted it sitting by the bed and when we returned for the evening, there was a bottle of distilled water for use in her CPAP machine waiting for us in the suite. Celebrity is truly second to none. Again, thank you for your videos. Always great content.

    • @happycook6737
      @happycook6737 7 місяців тому +3

      That bottle of distilled water was such a thoughtful service detail!

    • @MM-jf6sh
      @MM-jf6sh 7 місяців тому

      Didn’t celebrity just get rid of butlers?

    • @CJODell12
      @CJODell12 7 місяців тому

      Celebrity is Royal Caribbean’s sister cruise line

  • @user-py6fi4pv8i
    @user-py6fi4pv8i 7 місяців тому +8

    I think you do a wonderful job explaining your experiences. I would like to see you compare lines like Regent and Oceania comparing apples to apples. I have tried many cruise lines and they nickel and dime you to death. Regent, in my estimation, is a truly all inclusive cruise line. It makes the cruise more relaxed not worrying about budgets. I trued to match a number of lines and Regent always ended up with the best price.

  • @bradcolby3624
    @bradcolby3624 6 місяців тому +1

    This very thing happened to us booking an owners suite at the time for a Birthday cruise. I kept having to ask the cabin attendant to clean my suite. He left trash cans filled and finally had to have someone else help him. He then slacked off to clean all of his other regular cabins. Maybe they are overwhelmed and some really don’t care as he was at the end of his contract. I did receive flowers daily and canapés daily. For the price the suite was beautiful and spacious but lacked the service I excepted.

  • @Smellynelly67
    @Smellynelly67 7 місяців тому +1

    These suites look amazing but like one other commenter ,I would never need a room this big,especially on one of those theme parks at sea.We used to sail with P&O (before it became terrible) and there isn't that many perks,we even had to queue for 25 minutes to get into the dining area,that's when we moved to Cunard,suite passengers are treated very well.We always take a suite at the aft,simply because we love the large balcony space. Love your vids Gary,please keep cruising and keeping us informed 😊

  • @yukie_tn
    @yukie_tn 5 місяців тому

    I was on this exact ship in a similar cabin before the pandemic. It was a very similar experience, although I recalled having free wifi on 1 device for everyone in the room so maybe they got more stingy with that.
    I really enjoyed eating in coastal kitchen, and the evening cocktail hour snacks. We didn't buy a drink package because we could technically just get soda from there any time and drinks during the evening.
    I also experienced the more aggressive crew asking for key card but I didn't mind. Tbh I prefer not to be recognized around the ship. I've cruised in the very top cabin on other ships and the amount of overly attentiveness was something I can do without.

    • @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm
      @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm 2 місяці тому

      The lunacy is likely that it is per person. Every person gets wi-fi access. Solo travelers only get one per person, too. Seems unreasonable based on paying for two but only being one. Still, how many people can operate two or more devices at the same time? And, why would you ever need to? Educate me please.

  • @SinisterMD
    @SinisterMD 7 місяців тому +7

    Going on my first RC cruise with my family in less than a week. I'm hoping it works out well as our only other cruise was on Disney a couple years ago. Should prove to be a different experience but I hope it doesn't seem like it's too crowded. Time will tell.

  • @suzannecuerrier279
    @suzannecuerrier279 7 місяців тому

    Thank you for such a good review. You really gave us something to think about regarding booking these suites.

  • @cbradyorganize
    @cbradyorganize 7 місяців тому +3

    We have enjoyed the "suite life" on Princess. However, for various reasons the last cruise was February 2020. We're scheduled for an April cruise on the Caribbean Princess. It will be interesting to see if the separate dining, cocktail hour, concierge that we enjoyed before is still around. We would have at least 1 floral arrangement, fruit refreshed and canapés upon request. Some things we receive because of our membership level, but before reaching the top level being in a suite provided many of those services. It sounds like so much has changed since we last cruised, so we'll see if it is the same "suite life" in 2024.

  • @peterjaro6804
    @peterjaro6804 7 місяців тому +1

    This is so interresting. I actually liked the perks you showed and the massive cabin BUT when it comes to value/ price... I just don't think you get value for that price. I have been (once!) on Silversea and that cost me a fortune BUT I were made to FEEL very special, so in the end I was happy to have paid a fortune(!) for a really special experience. I don't think I would have felt that on RC... ..but an 'inside' looking cabin on RC is affordable AND great value for money.

  • @Diana-007
    @Diana-007 7 місяців тому +2

    Great video Gary, so informative and balanced as usual, you are simply the best at this, I’ve looked at others but always come back to you! This looks like a great ship, I’ve only done RC once over 20 odd years ago my first cruise it was on the inaugural Voyager of the seas which was fun at the time. This one may be an option for my daughter and her partner’s first cruise they are in their early 20’s, and very fit and active but it’s not for me the volume of people would overwhelm now, I like the quiet luxury areas and those extra touches you spoke about in the cabin. Entertainment looked fab though. I might even risk a joint cruise with my daughter but it would need to be outwith school holidays, too many kids 😂. 🥰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧

  • @cedarkey
    @cedarkey 7 місяців тому

    Very interesting.
    Thank you for posting. 👍🏻

  • @Love2Cruise
    @Love2Cruise 7 місяців тому

    Thanks, Gary, for your time on the Symphony. I’ve always wondered what suite would be like on a massive resort ship. Now I know small luxury ship is the better fit for us.

  • @sharonstockman1080
    @sharonstockman1080 7 місяців тому +1

    I traveled in an owners suite for a B2B last December. It was in the Caribbean at that time. I love the coastal kitchen and the suite lounge. I talked to the suite concierge the first day and asked them to have bottle water delivered to the room daily. It was delivered every day. I had the same problem with the room steward, but after the second day I talked to concierge about it and never had another problem.

    • @Sailing_with_Sabina
      @Sailing_with_Sabina 6 місяців тому

      The thing is you shouldn't have to talk to the concierge to get what you are paying for in the first place.

  • @josephyeo6966
    @josephyeo6966 7 місяців тому +1

    I cruised many times with Royal Carribean and always in a Suite because I like the perks.
    What I found most annoying is the preferred sittings for shows. Yes I get to sit at premium seats and because they are usually not full, they opened it up to anyone after the show starts. I will switch to MSC but they don't do Aus/NZ..

  • @danielintheantipodes6741
    @danielintheantipodes6741 7 місяців тому

    Thank you for the video!

  • @theonlymrkevin
    @theonlymrkevin 7 місяців тому

    Your review was excellent as I expect from you. I appreciate your candor. I'm also envious of your cruise vlogging profession. Congrats on making a living from it! Something small, but I just wanted to let you know that those Malin + Goetz 'nondescript' toiletries are in fact a luxury brand! They started out only available in upscale department stores and now are available online and in boutique apothecaries in the US.

  • @hillsidebilly4649
    @hillsidebilly4649 4 місяці тому

    Excellent and honest review

  • @davidc5191
    @davidc5191 7 місяців тому

    Very informative since I've booked an owner's suite solo on RC in January. Hopefully fewer kids in January. Didn't know about the laundry pressing service and priority seating. Coincidentally I'm also on deck 11, though a different Oasis ship. Also looks like you had an Owner's Suite on the 11th deck. I had the same (room 11-244) but on a different ship. My steward was excellent, and filled my ice bucket in the AM and PM at my request every day; and if he saw me walking down the corridor, he would go and open my door for me.

  • @larrywaller7411
    @larrywaller7411 4 місяці тому

    We like the Royal suite experience and most of your comments are accurate. For us, the balance between the upgraded experience and being part of the action is what appeals most. Having a suite neighborhood on the ship (like the Icon) would take away from that and a luxury line would probably be better in that case. We want all the clubs, additional restaurants, activities and entertainment that the big ship have.

  • @kristianlaws6414
    @kristianlaws6414 4 місяці тому

    Love watching you videos, you do an amazing job. Would you mind sharing what camera gear you use and which editing software. Sorry if you have answered this question many times before! Many thanks!!

  • @dand5829
    @dand5829 7 місяців тому +1

    Just got off Anthem in Sky class, traveled with kids. It was a nice cruise and I liked it. But for the same money you could go in NCL Haven and have a far superior experience. Haven gets you a butler in addition to the concierge.
    I’m glad we tried RCI but we will probably stick to NCL Haven from now on.
    We did have a suite priority queue to enter the terminal on embarkation day on my sailing.

  • @TheJbeau23
    @TheJbeau23 7 місяців тому

    Very interesting, thanks Gary.

  • @nvblair
    @nvblair 7 місяців тому

    Very informative Gary! Thanks! What is that crazy camera thing you carry around that films panoramic?

  • @RosemullionView
    @RosemullionView 7 місяців тому +1

    This is a great family resort ship but not a genteel luxury experience - hybrids rarely work. A classic example. Thanks for the review.

  • @Bucket-1979
    @Bucket-1979 7 місяців тому

    Nice to see you back on

  • @jamesmatthews291
    @jamesmatthews291 7 місяців тому +1

    That cabin was huge!Wowsers!
    Great review, both this and its accompanying more general RC review video.
    I couldn't go on a cruise (my wife gets seasick on a damp carpet!), but nevertheless your videos are very interesting.
    Subbed.

    • @Diana-007
      @Diana-007 7 місяців тому +2

      Had to say the damp carpet had me in stitches! Your poor wife.

  • @joaniemills1507
    @joaniemills1507 7 місяців тому

    Thank you for this! we usually book the Suites on Holland America and we have noticed over the years that the Steward has more suites to care for than they used to, but still accommodating to the most part. We do not enjoy the huge ships, and tend to stay on the smaller ones, the Holland smaller ships are the biggest we cruise, but have had friend do the Haven and love it.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  7 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching. Yes, clearly they are giving the stewards across lines more cabins to service - and many have cut the second service in the evening..

  • @francesgill8621
    @francesgill8621 7 місяців тому

    Very interesting Gary. Entertainment looks great but the crowds would not be worth it to me. Looking forward to trying Star Pride in December and seeing how my experience compares with yours.

  • @phrewilly8556
    @phrewilly8556 7 місяців тому

    Great review! I am quite surprised they only had one restroom in the cabin. Even some of the Carnival Ship Cabins that aren't even suites have 2 bathrooms!

  • @FraserAtSea
    @FraserAtSea 7 місяців тому +1

    I'm absolutely loving your views on Royal Caribbean. I'm obviously way at the other end of the cabin grades, and usually stay on the inside - it's really interesting to see what you guys get access to when you're staying in these accommodations.
    I'm curious - how often did you use the cabin? I've just visited a friend in a Mega Rockstar here on Valiant Lady and, while the room is gorgeous, I refuse to believe they spend much time in there. A ship like Symphony has so much going on elsewhere that I'm unsure I'd really get use out of the amazing cabin?

  • @krkope8277
    @krkope8277 7 місяців тому

    Wow, this is fascinating, thank you. We're Crystal cruisers, about to try Regent for the first time. I've been tempted by the RCI upper level offerings, but really wondered about their eye-watering prices. Now I know it's not for us. Thanks for saving us from an expensive mistake.

  • @catwilliams7538
    @catwilliams7538 7 місяців тому

    We had a suite on the Symphony of the Seas...it was lovely and I slept on the balcony a few times because of how awesome it was.

  • @cherifurr3935
    @cherifurr3935 7 місяців тому +2

    I can’t believe RC has cabins that are that expensive! $60,000/week??? Unreal! Seems weird that the suites are all spread out. But yes, disembarkation priority is a great perk. Sounds like Disney Concierge. They also escort you early to the best seats in the theater, to priority disembarkation and also send you an e-mail ahead of time and do priority disembarkation. Great Concierge Lounge. I hate booking a time for dinner, except for specialty dining. Weird to have the outdoor bar and lounge above the noisy pools! Nice big cabin and veranda, but Concierge Disney has 1 1/2 baths in a one-bedroom, luxury toiletries, and a sofa bed and a couch that opened into a bed, plus doors to the bedroom. Sounds like the cabin steward had too many cabins. But the but the large casino and huge entertainment shows are a plus. Yes, better for a family-wasted on just you or even you and Mark.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  7 місяців тому +1

      A few people have mentioned along your lines of the Disney Concierge set up. I did not book that on Disney, though people seem very positive about it! I actually have Symphony booked in March (5 nights) which I think I will keep as I originally booked it before this one I did as it linked date wise with an Oceania Vista I have....

  • @amyburl3826
    @amyburl3826 7 місяців тому

    It was lovely but definitely lacking for the money. Thank you for sharing this info.

  • @KC2DC
    @KC2DC 7 місяців тому +4

    Helpful video! One quibble...Malin + Goetz is definitely a luxury personal care/toiletry brand. Definitely not "non-descript."

    • @nnahler
      @nnahler 7 місяців тому

      I’m glad someone else noticed that! Malin and Goetz is quite well known here in the US and is not “non-descript” lol I forgive Gary, he is allowed a flub here and there!!

    • @TravisLim88
      @TravisLim88 7 місяців тому +1

      Yes agree with this. I could only recently afford their lip balm recently haha!

  • @kevinsage2980
    @kevinsage2980 7 місяців тому

    The only cruise that we went on was a Star Class suite on Royal, and those luxuries you mention, i.e. best seats in the house, access to everything, and the Genie, is why we have booked another cruise as Star Class.

  • @trentmcquade9268
    @trentmcquade9268 6 місяців тому

    You need to try the new icon or wonder of the seas because on wonder and the new Icon, Royal is starting to implement a new suite neighborhood that is very similar to what the other lines have.

  • @andrewsmith1168
    @andrewsmith1168 7 місяців тому

    Star class is great we did it on anthem a year ago in a grand loft suite.

  • @clarkjeschke3344
    @clarkjeschke3344 6 місяців тому

    Gary, another possibility is getting a nice suite on one of the smaller Royal Caribbean ships. There a relatively few suites. They paid a great deal of attention to us and delivered many of the things daily that were missing from your suite experience. Of course you give up the Broadway sized shows. Give and take.

  • @tjnorrisofficial
    @tjnorrisofficial 2 місяці тому

    Enjoyed your video, the only thing I disagree with is the Malin+Goetz products, are, in fact, quite a luxury. They are a very conscientious company still somewhat small, but mighty.

  • @fogblog723
    @fogblog723 7 місяців тому +1

    I love cruising i mostly cruise Royal Caribbean, iv been on about 12 cruises though its been a while. My gripe is their ships are all designed the same with small pools and it seems they cater to kiddy pools. Id like to see a ship with larger outdoor pools and seating. As for food courts, change up the options, im not digging the Johnny Rocket on every ship. It would be nice to see a Jimmy Buffs type of dining or an In and Out or a BBQ shredded pork restaurant Call me crazy.

  • @cyoohoos
    @cyoohoos 6 місяців тому

    Makes sense to have suite guests disembark easily. They can gear up for the next guest

  • @franktanner1636
    @franktanner1636 7 місяців тому +4

    malin and goetz is luxury soaps imo

    • @ACMEHomeSocal
      @ACMEHomeSocal 7 місяців тому +2

      Agree, its a boutique name brand, just not one widely known. Is also made in USA so probably not known internationally.

    • @Diana-007
      @Diana-007 7 місяців тому

      Never heard of it either, thank you.

    • @mangoliang4106
      @mangoliang4106 7 місяців тому +2

      Malin and Goetz is the brand for Le Meridien amenities from day one. Definitely at least upscale brand and I found it very good.

  • @jdoe836
    @jdoe836 7 місяців тому

    These OASIS class ships are massive and something to consider versus their smaller cousins, which used to be the largest. These OASIS and similar RESORT style ships, they're limited on which ports they can visit due to limitations of port size and facilities, channel width and depth. I could see this if I was planning something with very good friends.

  • @RyanK-100
    @RyanK-100 7 місяців тому +1

    Since Covid, the cabin stewards on Royal Caribbean have been the worst I have seen on any cruise line. I normally bring sanitizer wipes and wipe all surfaces, doorknobs and switches. The wipes were BLACK with dirt over the last 2 years. Last cruise, the guy came around once per day in the morning (I sleep until noon). I don't plan on booking with them for many years. I'll go on Carnival if I want to experience filth and laziness.

  • @Deltarious
    @Deltarious 7 місяців тому +1

    I wonder if there's enough of a market to try a 'best of both worlds' ship, where say you take a 6000 person ship and build out the interior for say 3000 or even 1000 cabins, you would then have all the attractions of a big ship, with theoretically all the detail and luxury of a smaller ship if you handled the crew management right. Of course that'd be an incredibly risky business proposition so I don't expect to see it, but it'd be interesting

  • @eah8185
    @eah8185 7 місяців тому +1

    Truly strange there isn't a separate "powder room"-sized bath (i.e., what we US folks might also call a half-bath - commode & sink). Excepting that "oversight," the room very much resembles the "Explorer Suite" we've enjoyed aboard two Regent Seven Seas "Explorer" sailings. Among other value propositions - I rise earlier than my wife, and the separate living & bedroom areas are always a huge plus for us (however, the lack of at least a half-bath in the entry/living area would be missed).

  • @erikagholston6610
    @erikagholston6610 7 місяців тому

    You had a very nice room.

  • @kevinswinbourne4290
    @kevinswinbourne4290 7 місяців тому

    Some nice perks, but the room is similar to penthouse on QM2 for less money and smaller ship passenger wise

  • @corner559
    @corner559 3 місяці тому

    I'm not going to lie. That menu at 7:18 looks like it's barely a step above Denny's.

  • @fordamos2279
    @fordamos2279 7 місяців тому

    You should try the massive rockstar suite on virgin voyages - it’s amazing

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  7 місяців тому

      I did one on Scarlet Lady! I found it a bit bling but it was huge !!!!

  • @Flyrabbit1
    @Flyrabbit1 7 місяців тому +1

    I just can’t imagine a huge cruise like this .. if it’s not a smaller luxury cruise I don’t want any part of it .. kids everywhere is just too noisy

  • @marilynnkadan7948
    @marilynnkadan7948 7 місяців тому

    Thank you Gary great report. I favor so far HAL & Oceania. Sail 16Feb 21dys Sirena US $9,600 Solo cabin O/V i ok with this + i made own air(pre-hotel)& ins. So will enjoy smaller #passenger /smilar your $ for 1wk. Tks again all comparing😊

  • @farab4391
    @farab4391 7 місяців тому

    Thank you for this review, not very often you see a good review of the suite life on cruises. Looks like Celebrity The Retreat is definitely better and better value

  • @RandomTheresa
    @RandomTheresa 7 місяців тому

    Yeah, I'll definitely stick with NCL and the Haven.

  • @sistersontheseas
    @sistersontheseas 7 місяців тому

    Interesting comparison. This does look like it would be agreat experience, but certainly not worth the cost when compared with other options at that price point.

  • @skeletor9121
    @skeletor9121 7 місяців тому +1

    RCCL is going down due to all the nickel and diming. Once you promote the CFA to CEO they are only looking at the numbers and not the overall service that most customers expect.

  • @silviaeastonborges5204
    @silviaeastonborges5204 7 місяців тому

    Nothing on these 2 videos about the symphony of the seas surprises me, but good to have my feelings validated. I’m sooooooo glad I didn’t go on here (I was close though. Have seen the ice skating show about 3x, and I loved it.

  • @calumshaw
    @calumshaw 7 місяців тому

    That email 10 days pre cruise gets a big + from me, but the rest of the suite perks are OK but not worthy of the cost although the size of the suite gets another big +

  • @mojosbigsticks
    @mojosbigsticks 7 місяців тому +3

    It's all about how you want to spend it. 10k got me a new kitchen.

  • @phillipkalaveras1725
    @phillipkalaveras1725 4 місяці тому

    6:26 Are flies a problem in the dining area?

  • @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm
    @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm 2 місяці тому

    For $10,000 I'd expect my own helicopter to pick me up on the ship to disembark!

  • @bridgetcasement6164
    @bridgetcasement6164 6 місяців тому

    I want to know what kind of camera you’re using when you’re walking about. I can never see a Selfies stick or equivalent. What are you using?

  • @andreadimmick8105
    @andreadimmick8105 7 місяців тому

    If I were to do a suite experience, I would prefer it to be in one place for easier access, also considering how much this cost, the lack of luxury extras, fruit/water/canapies replenished and quality toiletry's, would make me look at other ships.

  • @MasatoKay
    @MasatoKay 7 місяців тому +1

    The body wash is around 30 bucks a bottle

  • @donbdonbx
    @donbdonbx 6 місяців тому

    4:26 wassup baby

  • @Jscia831
    @Jscia831 2 місяці тому

    Totally random comment but the toiletries are in fact a very nice brand, usually sold in higher end stores here (Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, etc.) I don’t even know what brand would be expected
    for that cruise price though.. I think there’s nothing for me that could justify that price. Way out of budget! Maybe when I hit the jackpot 🎉

  • @troyholland2169
    @troyholland2169 7 місяців тому

    Gary, Do one more and get STAR class. Everything you mentioned you missed is in that class. I normally get the 2 bedroom on the Oasis class ships. while it's $20,000. the trick is to travel with 2 couples. Each person pays $5,000 but you get the genie and man is it worth it. you pretty much get whatever you want. The hold the elevator for you, special entry on and off. etc. a few things you didn't mention or may not have know.
    1) even though the coastal kitchen says reserve a time, I never do. just walk in.
    2) while there is a menu, you can order all the appetizers, and all the entree's. there is no limit
    3) Star class gives you double the points.
    4) if your a big person like me, 6'5", the suites are the only way to go.
    I have video fo my room if you ever want to see it.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  7 місяців тому

      Yes definitely the step to Star did seem really obvious on board was a big difference!!

  • @maidatenpulamea
    @maidatenpulamea 7 місяців тому +3

    RC is generally a huge waste of money. Very few itineraries can actually be called cruises in the classic meaning of the word. If you really want to cruise choose something else, not RC.

  • @dionline88
    @dionline88 7 місяців тому

    Great video! But a clarification is needed... when you said you needed to pay for two (as a single guest) did that mean that suite would be $5k/pp for me & hubby (total $10k) or it was $10k/pp (and you needed to pay $20k)?? Either way, without more definite perks, I don't think it's worth it. But it sure was great to see your suite and get a first-hand review - thanks Gary!

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  7 місяців тому

      It was $10K in total as I had to pay as if for two people (so if my partner had been able to come would have been marginally higher due to port fees)

  • @fogblog723
    @fogblog723 7 місяців тому

    Over the years iv met Bowser from Sha Na Na, Alan Thicke the actor, Phyllis Diller the comedian she was the best. I haven’t seen any celebrities on my last few cruises. Do celebs still do cruises?

    • @francesgill8621
      @francesgill8621 7 місяців тому +1

      Marie Osmond got off the Zaandam in Boston as I was getting on it on August 23. So they do!

  • @JohnQuale
    @JohnQuale 7 місяців тому

    Malin+Goetz is high end.

  • @paulgerrard9227
    @paulgerrard9227 4 місяці тому

    Depends on your wealth. Some who could afford it wouldnt think about it. May also be wrong ship. Regent or Scenic Seaborn Ponant etc may be better for pure indulgence and no peasants and their abundant kids on the ship.

  • @worldhello1234
    @worldhello1234 3 місяці тому

    I guess you get more value for money out of a Toyota Alphard Royal Lounge.
    @2:58 Okay, the known euphemism for service fee.

  • @benyeager4639
    @benyeager4639 7 місяців тому

    Question:
    I’m going on a cruise in March, I’m wanting to go on another cruise in 2025. Should I buy the cruise now or wait and buy it while I’m on my cruise this coming March? I’ve been told I would be able to get a better price or better incentives? Any suggestions?

  • @noname-JS
    @noname-JS 4 місяці тому +1

    Young people! Wow! RCL is superior to the others in my limited opinion right now. I don't think the food is as good as a premium or luxury line. My friend got a 2 bedroom 2 bath suite with her 3 friends...so on some ships, it happens.

  • @andiscott8470
    @andiscott8470 7 місяців тому

    I do think the suite and space you have on the balcony looks very nice. The rest of it, wouldn't be my cup of tea at all. And, for the price, I wouldn't pay that for what you got.

  • @williamlabarre4755
    @williamlabarre4755 4 місяці тому

    Perhaps Celebrity would match your expectations better; still a RC line, but definitely better prepared for higher-end guest expectations.

  • @dyllan661
    @dyllan661 3 місяці тому

    So over Royal Caribbean. A few years ago had great cruises in suites with them, there newer ships now being floating resorts / kindergarten had lost me as a client. I find better service, food and experience on smaller luxury lines

  • @notyourmama6511
    @notyourmama6511 7 місяців тому

    Hello from Canada 🇨🇦
    It’s Snowing.

  • @nnajj01
    @nnajj01 7 місяців тому

    Those smaller cruise line’s aren’t inclusive. I love my Disney and Royal. I’ll continue to pay them😊

  • @marylandflyer5670
    @marylandflyer5670 7 місяців тому

    For that amount of money I want a real espresso machine and quality grinder, not pod junk. There are enough people who are home espresso enthusiasts who would love an option for real machine and grinder.

  • @anythingroam2423
    @anythingroam2423 6 місяців тому

    Thats a shame about the cabin stuard cordination. Princess was flawless change overs and i just had a plain balcony. Never really loved RC anyway

  • @johnamathan
    @johnamathan 7 місяців тому +1

    Gary I love you but no, Malin+Goetz is not some nondescript brand! Try them out!

  • @iaincampbell4422
    @iaincampbell4422 7 місяців тому

    Lack of caffiene free diet coke has been a real frustration for me on NCL as they don't let you bring on cans. I literally almost never drink anything else. I have to switch to cafinated coke when I cruise which I hate doing as i get dependent then suffer with caffeine withdrawals for two days after my cruise in order to get caffeine free. They should really either offer it or let me bring it on board. I'd even be happy to pay for a soda package then only drink my caffeine free diet coke! Sprite won't work as a solution for me!