PaulB

@kefthecruiser you definitely get my appreciation. Where would the world be without forward thinking people like yourself. I would love to know the planning and the thinking behind things. I've even read that everything designed has a reason behind it not just for aesthetics and to be I find that outstanding.

I actually like the design of this ship. It looks sleek and modern. You always get the same similar look with cruises mainly, but I thought this one stood out from the rest. It's certainly looks beautiful

@LukeJ well at least someone popular ha ha. We could always start our art work at home before we set sail and spend the first day decorating the doors. Best designed door gets a prize 🏆

@3Sisters I'm fascinated by engineering. It's such a noble art, and I look on in awe at the brains that goes behind it all, something I could never comprehend. I love looking at engineering feats from history too, with the thinking and the planning behind some of our past architecture and such things.

@716Matt what do you mean when you state you personalise the doors after a few drinks? Is this a normal thing on cruises that you can decorate doors?

Is the reason for lack of excursions is because they are aware that they might not do these and covering their tracks? @Kendall James-Vargas being from the UK, I've never heard of pickleball. I've played majority of sports however the thought of playing a new sport intrigues me.

If the CEO wishes for repeat custom, then they will certainly need to listen to what the customers are saying. I understand that they have to make money and profits but not at the expense of a lesser experience for the people who have paid a lot of money to be on board.

@3Sisters are you aware to what flaws that guests have been identifying? I think change is good sometimes especially if the paying customer is spotting something missing

What a fantastic plan and great to see companies doing what they can to protect these beautiful mammals. I've read previously that there are not many whales left and it's alarming to see that how close they are to extinction, so to hear cruise companies are looking to do their bit for the environment and do what they can to protect is encouraging to read.

You have to applaud the engineering aspect of it all, and as impressive as it seems to be, with the size and as @Ludwin Zavala previously mentioned maintaining the stability, however I do find it all to convenient. The whole idea of cruising is naturally to enjoy and entertain whilst being on board, but I personally enjoy the getting off various places and seeing different countries and sampling local entertainment.

I used to enjoy going to casinos. I'd never bet large amounts but would love the atmosphere of being in a casino. I found it all quite exciting, especially when you win.

What sort of excursions do they offer on cruises these days?

Usually it's a bad sign if an albatross is on board, so maybe an owl will change the perspective and have good luck on board. But then again seeing as it snuck on board, he needs to be punished, maybe send him to Owlcatraz.

There is a fine line between having large crowds and staff controlling these amounts to staff cuts and companies still getting these masses of customers in to make money without the added staff, and that will always show up and you can tell the difference

@LukeJ no worries at all. Glad to help. Please feel free to let me know if you end up there. Would love to hear your thoughts

@Cruising Caribbean what type of eco friendly technology are on board this ship? I hope this is the way forward for all cruises.

@Cruising Caribbeanwhere you live is definitely a plus point. A few people enjoy going away for weekends, and you do need to consider schools and work etc as you say. So if any ports are close to travelling to then what a fantastic idea. I however live about 4 hours away from the nearest port and certainly would not relish the idea of travelling that distance on a busy Friday afternoon/evening to catch a ship.

@Kendall James-Vargas Its beautiful flavour, was dubious naturally when first trying, but pleasantly surprised. No I haven't tried it or seen it aboard any cruises. What would the chances that if you sent in requests that they would make it for you?

I'm also surprised to read this new law. Don't mean to sound ignorant as I don't know much in regards to Mexican law but I also believed that they have bigger things to deal with. But then again, a small change to things freshens things up and sets the correct protocol

@Kendall James-Vargas I tend to agree with you there in regards to the upselling constantly. I can understand companies needing to make the extra monies. However as you stated it does spoil the relaxation experience when people continue to push for extra and you want to be left alone. Everywhere seems to making staffing cuts, and as disheartening as it is, it seems that it's the customers that are the ones who are also reeling as they are paying (more than they usually have been paying ) and getting less of a round experience because of these changes and may feel short changed by it all.

@Busia42 oh this is my dream cruise. I would love to be on that trip.

@Cruising Caribbean if you are looking to make more homemade stuff, may I suggest chocolate courgette cake. It may sound mind-blowing but I assure you that it will definitely be worthwhile the effort. It will keep the texture lovely and moist in return

@3Sisters @LukeJ it's the most amazing country. I really enjoyed Athens, that will blow you away with its history. You will love the restaurants there, hidden away in alleys. There is something magical I find about that. I loved Crete, views and the beaches are mesmerising. Or if you are more of a night owl, there is always Corfu

If you have the funds for it, then it definitely is the way forward. And even if you are eating out, doesn't necessarily mean that it will be unhealthy.

It's the same as most holidays, people always feel a week is far too short and the fortnight can feel too long so most are happy to average that out and then days would be the ideal time away. However, on a cruise, this may differ as there is many more things to do onboard and stop offs.