Shawna

I am trying to decide whether to take a Windstar or Seabourn cruise from Lisbon to Barcelona in April 2003 for my honeymoon. I am interested in hearing how the atmosphere/passengers on the two differ. Also, I know the average temp. is 67 degrees (F) in April, but is it sunny and generally pleasant enough to enjoy the outdoor decks? Thanks for any advice you can offer!

sandy

Shawna, <BR>These two cruise lines are VERY different. Seabourn is quite formal, and it caters to what I like to call "old money." The passengers tend to be older. Or at least, they used to. in this very competitive market, things have changed. Windstar is very informal. They refer to their style as " casual elegance." Their passengers seem to be younger -- lots of honeymooners. With Seabourn you pay a lot upfront, but it includes everything -- all your beverages, all your tipping. On Windstar your intial cruise fare will be lots lower, but you will be asked to sign for every glass of wine, every soft drink, every bottle of water. And even though they say that tipping is "optional," DON'T BELIEVE IT! As for the weather, who knows?<BR>

Paul Therault

Hi Shawna,<BR><BR>I agree with Sandy and allow me to add. Although it is a hoot to sail a masted ship and a very unique experience, the staterooms, although elegant, are very small. Also your view of the sea is out of portholes.<BR><BR>Also, the pool is the size of a bathtub and the casino is ... well ... a room.<BR><BR>Not much for entertainment on Windstar but the entertainment on Seabourn may put you to sleep.<BR><BR>The service and food on both lines are the best.<BR><BR>As Sandy stated. Two entirely different cruise experiences. I guess you will have to look at your own lifestyle and budget.<BR><BR>Paul

Merriem

One comment. The cabins on windstar are a well laid out 185 sq ft. They have nice bathrooms. We were on the Windsong, and is was okay. I liked the idea of sailing. If I had my choice, money not being an issue, I would go on Seabourn. Wine was quite expensive on Windstar, and the glasses were tiny.

Andy

Shawna- I must be the only one that LOVE the Windstar line-<BR>however, I ONLY will go on 1 of their ships: the WINDSURF...<BR><BR>The cabins are not huge but definitely well laid out-- and yes, only portholes-<BR>The casino is 1 room but adequate for everyone getting a chance to lose their money and no pressure to gamble...<BR><BR>The lounge entertainment on our Med Cruise from Rome to Nice was terrific- a 3 pc combo that could play anything!<BR><BR>Age range is younger on the Windsurf and if you are one of the people that drinks incessantly, then yes- it will cost more for the booze-- But we ususally had 1 drink before dinner with the hor douevres and maybe a glass of wine with dinner- <BR><BR>You can keep a bottle of liquor or wine in your cabin and imbibe on your own- in the privacy of your own cabin...<BR><BR>Yes, the pool are is small but you will be in EUROPE and the chances of you even wanting to lay out more than 1 day , is very remote---esp,in April,where you can have cooler weather and rain....<BR><BR>The people on the Windsurf were extrememly friendly and the food was to die for--<BR><BR>There are 2 restaurants on this particular ship =a grill room and the regular dining room-BOTH of which are casually elegant-ie.Polo Shirt and Khakis for dinner and silk shirt and linen slax for ladies or a sun dress--<BR><BR>Our cruise in the Med the 2nd week of May had some rain, some cool weather,some sun-- <BR><BR>And no matter what any one says, to sail under the 5 masts is romantic and fabulous!!! You will LOVE the Windsurf..

M.B.

Shawna, if you would like a "5* floating Ritz" definitely go SEABOURN!!!<BR>We cruise Seabourn twice a year and will never think of changing lines! The Staff, crew and guests are ALL tops---the food, out of this world---and let, me add, the entertainment is WONDERFUL! Not glitzy or Las Vegas---just excellent "low key type" performers.Wonderful music for dancing and everyone always enjoys Eric DeGray, Jan Stearman, Ken James, and David Greene--I think a Seabourn cruise for your honeymoon would be unforgetable---just remember though, "Once Seabourn, Always Seabourn!! I was on Seabourn this past April, we were in Lisbon and the weather was beautiful and warm! Happy Cruisin'!

Shawna

Thanks for everyone's responses. I am leaning towards Seabourn, as the Windstar cruise is not on the Windsurf, but on one of their triplet ships. Your comments were incredibly helpful. Thanks again!

M.B.

Shawna, as we are "crossing" on the Seabourn Pride March 17th-03 we will be disembarking in Lisbon when 'Yall get on! Yes, Seabourn is more expensive, but it is certainly "value received!" If you would like more information please feel free to e-mail me directly. Also, call Seabourn and have them send you a complimentary video.(800 929-9595)<BR>A Seabourn voyage is life changing....and would be a most memorable honeymoon.