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MrsFrizzle
<3
Member since 9/09 4628 total posts
Name:
Kristin
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Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
DH & I are booking a vacation and we're torn between two cruises (or should I say I am since I'm in charge of deciding).
We can do one of two cruises both out of NY:
1. Older ship goes down the coast with stops at Port Canaveral, Nassau and their private island.
Or...
2. Brand new ship goes to Bermuda and stays there for 3 days before returning back. Costs about $600 more total.
DH & I have never been to Bermuda and think it could be fun to be on one island and really get to explore, plus the ship is new so obviously that will be awesome and fun.
I'm not crazy with the first choice with their being a stop in Florida but we both LOVE the private island stop.
I guess my questions are is Bermuda fun to stay on for 3 days? We would probably just want to beach it, so are there really nice beaches? How is the water there? And will it be hot in May?
And do you think it's worth the extra money.
The curve ball is his cousin is coming too and has to pay double occupancy for one room, it's cheaper than our cruise still the new ship is about $400 more for him, is it okay to ask that of him? By the way neither of the guys know anything of the pricing issue they told me to just tell them when and where LOL
ETA: Newer ship is NCL Breakaway
Message edited 2/13/2013 12:00:32 PM.
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Posted 2/13/13 11:37 AM  |
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SusiBee
. . . . .
Member since 3/09 8268 total posts
Name:
S
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
1. Older ship - are those the only two stops ? Port Canaveral would not interest me in the least, I would stay on board and take advantage of in port discounted spa stuff.
We did 9 nights out of Bayonne last year (end of April/beginning of May). Bermuda was one of our stops but only for a day. We did a private sightseeing tour, stopped at Horseshoe beach for some sand and swimming. Weather was nice and warm. I'd have to do more research on Bermuda to see what it offers for 3 full days, but I wouldn't mind going back. It is a beautiful island and the beaches were nice.
What would the newer ship offer on board that is different from the older ship ? Better pools, adult only areas, more restaurant variety ?
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| Posted 2/13/13 11:46 AM |
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ElizaRags35
My 2 Girls
Member since 2/09 20494 total posts
Name:
Me
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Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Hmm I don't know! I am actually going on the newer ship to Bermuda in August. It'll be my first time on that line and first time in Bermuda. Everyone I know who has been there loves it and says it's one of the best ports.
As for the older ship, I think it's ok. Nassau, IMO, sucks. Port Canaveral is not a great stop either (although I wouldn't mind b/c DH's family lives about 20 mins from the port and we would just spend the whole time with them but this info won't do you any good lol). I'd just do that cruise for the private island.
So b/c of the itinerary, I'd probably do Bermuda. My dad has been there a few times and recommends that we get a 3 day bus pass to use while we're there and that the beaches are gorgeous.
Message edited 2/13/2013 11:51:02 AM.
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| Posted 2/13/13 11:49 AM |
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ali120206
2 Boys
Member since 7/06 17795 total posts
Name:
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Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
I would choose the Bermuda one.
I did a cruise out of Port Canaveral to Nassau and the private island once and wasn't impressed with Port Canaveral or Nassau. We didn't get to go to the private island either since conditions were too rough to stop there (we needed to get on a tender to go in).
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| Posted 2/13/13 11:57 AM |
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MrsFrizzle
<3
Member since 9/09 4628 total posts
Name:
Kristin
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by SusiBee
1. Older ship - are those the only two stops ? Port Canaveral would not interest me in the least, I would stay on board and take advantage of in port discounted spa stuff.
We did 9 nights out of Bayonne last year (end of April/beginning of May). Bermuda was one of our stops but only for a day. We did a private sightseeing tour, stopped at Horseshoe beach for some sand and swimming. Weather was nice and warm. I'd have to do more research on Bermuda to see what it offers for 3 full days, but I wouldn't mind going back. It is a beautiful island and the beaches were nice.
What would the newer ship offer on board that is different from the older ship ? Better pools, adult only areas, more restaurant variety ?
Newer ship offers a waterpark, sports obstacle course, ice bar, restaurant by big chefs (we're foodies!), awesome shows and so on. It's the NCL Breakaway I should have added that.
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:00 PM |
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MrsFrizzle
<3
Member since 9/09 4628 total posts
Name:
Kristin
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Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
LOL in just three responses I think I may be swayed!!
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:01 PM |
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ElizaRags35
My 2 Girls
Member since 2/09 20494 total posts
Name:
Me
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by jkfris09
Posted by SusiBee
1. Older ship - are those the only two stops ? Port Canaveral would not interest me in the least, I would stay on board and take advantage of in port discounted spa stuff.
We did 9 nights out of Bayonne last year (end of April/beginning of May). Bermuda was one of our stops but only for a day. We did a private sightseeing tour, stopped at Horseshoe beach for some sand and swimming. Weather was nice and warm. I'd have to do more research on Bermuda to see what it offers for 3 full days, but I wouldn't mind going back. It is a beautiful island and the beaches were nice.
What would the newer ship offer on board that is different from the older ship ? Better pools, adult only areas, more restaurant variety ?
Newer ship offers a waterpark, sports obstacle course, ice bar, restaurant by big chefs (we're foodies!), awesome shows and so on. It's the NCL Breakaway I should have added that.
Yup that's the one I'm going on in August. If you go in May, you can tell me all about it! 
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:13 PM |
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MrsM-6-7-08
<3
Member since 8/06 4249 total posts
Name:
Nicole
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
I assume you are talking about the Norwegian Breakaway, this looks like it is going to be an amazing ship, with a ton of amenities. I have never sailed on Norwegian but i have cruised to Bermuda 3 times from NY. only on Celebrity which are older ships.
Bermuda is amazing the beaches are unbelievable So relaxing and filled with amenities. It is also very expensive, 50 dollars for a cab ride to the beach one way. There are buses and ferrys that are cheaper as well. The town is very cute and there are great places to eat there as well.
even though I have been on 3 cruises to bermuda I defin want to go again this summer.
This photo was taken at Elbow beach
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:14 PM |
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LSP2005
Bunny kisses are so cute!
Member since 5/05 19461 total posts
Name:
L
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
If it is between the NCL Dawn and the Breakaway I would pick the new ship. However, based on my last NCL trip on the Dawn, I would pick a different line.
Message edited 2/13/2013 12:14:43 PM.
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:14 PM |
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LI2VA
Love my life!!
Member since 11/05 3125 total posts
Name:
Melissa
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Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Did the Bermuda cruise last August... OMG!!! Hands down the best vacation EVER!!!! Its worth it the $
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:20 PM |
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MrsFrizzle
<3
Member since 9/09 4628 total posts
Name:
Kristin
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by MrsM-6-7-08
I assume you are talking about the Norwegian Breakaway, this looks like it is going to be an amazing ship, with a ton of amenities. I have never sailed on Norwegian but i have cruised to Bermuda 3 times from NY. only on Celebrity which are older ships.
Bermuda is amazing the beaches are unbelievable So relaxing and filled with amenities. It is also very expensive, 50 dollars for a cab ride to the beach one way. There are buses and ferrys that are cheaper as well. The town is very cute and there are great places to eat there as well.
even though I have been on 3 cruises to bermuda I defin want to go again this summer.
This photo was taken at Elbow beach
Thank you!!! That looks beautiful!!!
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:25 PM |
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MrsM-6-7-08
<3
Member since 8/06 4249 total posts
Name:
Nicole
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Not sure what your budget is but one amazing thing about Bermuda is you can rent your own boat for the day. The rules there are really great. When we go we rent our boat for the day and just cruise around the island. its so amazing
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| Posted 2/13/13 12:30 PM |
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JennP
LIF Adult
Member since 10/06 3986 total posts
Name:
Jenn
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
I would have to know what line the older ship was on before I voted but I will say I LOVED Bermuda.
Based on ports, I would say Bermuda hands down. The beaches are beautiful and there are other activities if you get bored of tanning and swimming.
I have sailed Celebrity, Carnival, and RCI and I prefer RCI. Never had a bad experience though.
I haven't heard the best things about Norwegian. But again, that's just hearsay.
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| Posted 2/13/13 1:02 PM |
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Blazesyth
*yawn*
Member since 5/05 8129 total posts
Name:
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by LSP2005
If it is between the NCL Dawn and the Breakaway I would pick the new ship. However, based on my last NCL trip on the Dawn, I would pick a different line.
If I had to choose NCL, I'd pick the older ship. We were on Jewel last summer, and met up at a port with Epic. Everyone on Epic was complaining about it SO much. I can only imagine Breakaway would be the same.
That being said, we'll never go on NCL again. Waiting on RC's Quantum to come to Bayonne.
Message edited 2/13/2013 1:36:43 PM.
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| Posted 2/13/13 1:32 PM |
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MrsFrizzle
<3
Member since 9/09 4628 total posts
Name:
Kristin
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by JennP
I would have to know what line the older ship was on before I voted but I will say I LOVED Bermuda.
Based on ports, I would say Bermuda hands down. The beaches are beautiful and there are other activities if you get bored of tanning and swimming.
I have sailed Celebrity, Carnival, and RCI and I prefer RCI. Never had a bad experience though.
I haven't heard the best things about Norwegian. But again, that's just hearsay.
NCL Gem is the older one. What were their complaints about the Epic?
We've sailed the Jewel before and loved it. Even though Princess is our favorite line.
Message edited 2/13/2013 2:23:19 PM.
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| Posted 2/13/13 1:33 PM |
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halfbaked
LIF Adult
Member since 8/12 6937 total posts
Name:
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
I sailed the Epic and enjoyed it, but there wasn't too much new and exciting on it. The breakaway looks amazing. Plus I've done the Bermuda cruise 3 times with NCL. There's plenty to do on the island. I recommend visiting Horseshoe Beach, the Crystal Caves (with a stop at the Swagger Inn across the road), and jet skiing or the beach right by where the boat docks. They have equipment rentals- snorkels, kayaks, etc. plus they usually have music, a giant blow up slide on the beach into the water or a slide in the water. We always have fun there.
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| Posted 2/13/13 4:07 PM |
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Bermuda, hands down!!
We love Bermuda. Went on a cruise there (after being there on our 1st anniversary years before) on NCL.
I have no desire to ever go back to Nassau. Especially if you have kids as they will learn what a drug deal is walking down their streets. Every.single.time we have been there.
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| Posted 2/13/13 7:25 PM |
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Karen
Just chillin'!!
Member since 1/06 9690 total posts
Name:
Karen
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Just keep in mind if you choose the Bermuda cruise while the ship is docked the casino will NOT be open.
We did the Norwegian Dawn to Bermuda in 2009 and absolutely loved it!
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| Posted 2/13/13 10:17 PM |
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ElizaRags35
My 2 Girls
Member since 2/09 20494 total posts
Name:
Me
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by Karen
Just keep in mind if you choose the Bermuda cruise while the ship is docked the casino will NOT be open.
We did the Norwegian Dawn to Bermuda in 2009 and absolutely loved it!
Oh that sucks. I didn't realize that.  I guess my wallet will be grateful
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| Posted 2/13/13 10:52 PM |
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MrsFrizzle
<3
Member since 9/09 4628 total posts
Name:
Kristin
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by Karen
Just keep in mind if you choose the Bermuda cruise while the ship is docked the casino will NOT be open.
We did the Norwegian Dawn to Bermuda in 2009 and absolutely loved it!
That's fine in the 5 cruises we've done together we've never gone to the casino!
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| Posted 2/14/13 9:09 AM |
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Lillykat
going along for the ride...
Member since 5/05 16253 total posts
Name:
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
I am not a huge NCL fan but love Bermuda. I also think if you have a choice a new ship with more amenities would be a better option. There is I think a street festival on Wed nights.
Bermuda is a beautiful island. Horse drawn carriage rides, beautiful beaches, caves etc. One thing to consider is that it won't be FL or tropical island warm weather. May will be mid 70s. Water will still be kind of chilly.
If you are a foodie don't get your hopes up too high. Often these 2nd locations are not as good as their main restaurant.
The casino will be closed while you are in port. But NCL sounds like they were nonstop activities. For 2 years in a row we had an aft cabin that backed onto the aft of the NCL ship. All day and pretty late they were making announcements about all the activities going on.
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| Posted 2/14/13 12:19 PM |
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halfbaked
LIF Adult
Member since 8/12 6937 total posts
Name:
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by Lillykat
All day and pretty late they were making announcements about all the activities going on.
If I had to hear "It's BINGO TIME!" one more time... at least the guy had an Australian accent so it was kinda cute.
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| Posted 2/14/13 12:30 PM |
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Lillykat
going along for the ride...
Member since 5/05 16253 total posts
Name:
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Posted by halfbaked
Posted by Lillykat
All day and pretty late they were making announcements about all the activities going on.
If I had to hear "It's BINGO TIME!" one more time... at least the guy had an Australian accent so it was kinda cute.
We couldn't hear al, of them clearly but you hear the ding dong chime then....ladies and gentleman on deck 12....com'mon dowwnnnn...
I hate announcements but it did sound like they had a lot of things to keep you busy. The ship we were on the captain makes one maybe 2 announcements total mostly about the weather or the seas. They don't really make announcements about activities.
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| Posted 2/14/13 12:52 PM |
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Jax430
Hi!
Member since 5/05 18919 total posts
Name:
Jackie
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
I love Bermuda, and we were actually considering the Breakaway for this summer, but my we are opting for Celebrity to Bermuda. Is that an option for you? (sorry, didn't read the whole thread).
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| Posted 2/14/13 2:46 PM |
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JennasMom
?**?
Member since 11/05 3463 total posts
Name:
does it matter
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Re: Cruise Dilema - Opinions?
Bermuda, we did it two years ago on NCL, the beaches were amazing!!
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| Posted 2/14/13 4:58 PM |
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