My husband and I are thinking of planning a first cruise for next summer-- one of the Baltic Sea cruises. HAL appeals to us because of its "tradition," plus my sense is that the cabins are a good deal larger. It seems high-middle of the line in price and amenities, which is about where we want to be. The big negative for us is the seated/set dinners AND the formal nights-- which we very much do not want. However, when I looked at Radisson, the cabins seemed to be significantly smaller. Radisson, on the other hand, seems to be much more casual (ties not necessary, etc.)-- and that aspect would definitely suit us better.
Would be very pleased to hear pros and cons of those two ships-- esp. from folks who have sailed in the area we're interested in (northern Europe). Thanks!!

Not sure which HAL ship you are comparing with which RSSC ship. The standard outside cabin on most HAL ships is 185 square feet. The standard outside cabin on most RSSC ships is 300 square feet plus a balcony.

At about $500.00 per day per person on a RSSC ship there is no comparison between the two lines.

the only 2 lines I've ever sailed are HAL and Radisson. I'd never return to HAL, but I'm about to take my 4th Radisson (although my 3 previous were all on 1 ship--the now retired Song of Flower). The set dinners are a BIG downside on HAL, plus the indifferent service and the nickel and diming. Even if you have great tablemates (which we didn't), having to stick to a schedule on vacation is a drag. Keeping in mind that we were on one of the older HAL ships, I found the cabins smaller than the Radisson Song of Flower, which also had fairly small cabins. However, that ship, which had many charms but its cabins were not one, has been retired--I'm about to try the Navigator, which has significantly larger cabins, as do all the Radison shipss now with the possible exception of the Diamond. For service, Radisson is top of the line--HAL is not even close to the same league. Also, all tips are included on Radisson, as are wines with dinner (plus the in-room bar setup). I've done the Baltic route, and had a great time. Be sure that your itinerary includes Visby: that's a stop that seems like a throwaway, until you get there and discover that it's a highlight of the journey.

HAL isn't in the same league. Take Radisson.

I'd have to agree with the others. We did take the HAL Baltics trip on the Maasdam in a Category B, mini-suite. Everything was very nice and I honestly don't have any complaints...BUT, comparing Radisson and HAL are like comparing apples and oranges.

There is no comparison between the two. HAL's traditional seating and dinner schedule is a real turn off. I much prefer to eat when, where and with whom I feel like that night.

I have no idea where you got the information on cabin size but it is mistaken. Radisson's Voyager ship (currently doing the Baltics) standard cabins are suites...306 sq. ft PLUS a 50 ft. balcony. (total of 356 sq.ft), walk-in closet, marble bathroom with a separate large shower and separate tub. Every cabin has a balcony and there is absolutely no reason to upgrade from the least expensive cabins. My favorite cabins are on Deck 6, Category "G" midship. The dining options are far superior and you do NOT have to pay to eat in alternative restaurants. Also, for those who do not want to participate in formal night, no problem. There are other dining options which are "country club casual" every night or room service. Room service is an experience in itself. The dinners are served course by course with the same menu options as in the main dining room (Compass Rose). Did I mention the free liquor in the cabin and cocktails and wine in the diningroom? On HAL you will feel nickeled and dimed through out, on Radisson or other luxury lines, you will not. You will be treated as a "Guest" not as a "Passenger". I'd go with Radisson over HAL in a heartbeat.

I have been on many ships, many cruise lines and have never gone on a "bad" cruise! Whatever you decide, I'm sure you'll have a great time. You're choosing a super itinerary! Sorry for rambling...you just hit on two cruise lines I know well.

Since this question has been posted SEVERAL times with SEVERAL responses, mine included; why don't you just pick one, GO and decide for yourself?

This is wearing a little thin.

Radisson suites are FAR bigger than HAL, unless you take a mini-suite. But if you are going to pay that kind of price on HAL, as might as well go with Radisson. HAL is the best of mass market lines along with Celebrity, and Radisson is the best value among the luxuary.

HAL Maasdam Mini-Suite is 285 sq. ft INCLUDING the balcony. Voyager's standard cabin is 306 sq. ft. EXCLUDING the balcony. You'd have to go to more like a full suite to duplicate what the standard cabin is on RSSC Voyager. They're all suites on Voyager. Poss, if you have any other questions, you're welcome to email me if you'd like: [email protected]

Holland America's suites are exactly double of their regular cabins. The balcony is double size also. With a king size bed, there's still plenty of room. It also has a real dressing room with dressing table also. So HAL's full suite is bigger than Radisson's regular room. But.....you are still on Holland America, with set dining hours, uninspiring food, tips and having to sign for whichever you turn.