First time cruisers looking for best lines/ships
 

We are planning our first cruise in April or May and are looking at Eastern and Western Carribean, Bermuda and Hawaii. I would be grateful to anyone who could suggest good lines and/or ships for these itineraries.

I would also appreciate any information about dinner seatings. Are there any lines that offer "private" dining (not sitting with others)?

It would help to know your age range and your interests. <BR> We really like Celebrity . Great food and service. They do have tables for two in the dining room. WE also like late seating for dinner so we don't have to rush through our day and we can watch the sunsets.

Without know knowing your preferences, likes, dislikes, etc., I could only recommend a line/ship based on what appeals to me. We are all different and that is why there are almost 100 different cereals on the shelves in the supermarket and that's why there are many different cars fully loaded or just basic. <BR> <BR>The dining rooms are huge. There are table for 10, 8, 6, 4 and very few 2's. Be aware that when an cruise agent request a table for 2, it is only a "request." You may still end up sitting at one of the larger tables. <BR>

Jay, We sailed Celebrity Century’s Eastern Caribbean itinerary. The Century is a beautiful ship and Celebrity is an excellent choice of cruise lines. You will love the Eastern Caribbean on Century. Regarding late or early seating, as you might suspect, both have their pros and cons. We prefer the late seating, as the early seating tends to have more children. Additionally, when you're in port you may have to cut your island exploring time short and hurry back to the ship to make the early seating. We reserved a table for 2 when we booked our cruise. As soon as you board the ship, you need to check with the Maitre D’ to confirm your table for 2. It is not guaranteed even if it says so on your booking documents. Enjoy your Cruise.

Please, please, please, whatever you do don't choose RCCL. My wife and I were first time cruisers for our honeymoon in Nov. 2000. In short, my wife sat down and cried it was so bad. Look up "Honeymoon from Hell", and you see what I mean. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me.

Roy wrote: <BR> <BR>"You will love the Eastern Caribbean on Century." <BR> <BR>How can you know this? Even a TA/cruise agent has to ask the client several questions to match the individual with a compatible line.

Tastes, age ranges, etc. do vary. But I must say that I've been on several cruises with Celebrity and met all types of people, all different ages and backgrounds, and they all loved their Celebrity cruise experience. The only variation I'd put in here is that Carnival might be a better choice if you're younger and looking to party more. Otherwise, Celebrity is an overall winner - consistently reviewed well and not much more (if at all?) expensive than the other lines. Good luck and have a great time!

I have been on eastern and western Carribean cruises and loved both equally. Every port is different so it is hard to rate one better than the other. The eastern route usually includes Mexico, Grand Cayman, Jamaica and I love all three spots. The western will usually include the Virgin Islands which are fab. Would recommend you try them all if you get a chance. I haven't cruised to Bermuda but do vacation there once a year and love the place! A great way to see the Island is via a cruise because it is so expensive (meals, accommodations). Not a lot of "night life" but you will get that on board. Great shopping, snorkelling, diving, fishing and boating! Oh yeah, the beaches are great as well! <BR> <BR>Anyways, if you haven't done any travelling, I would suggest you pick a cruise with a couple of ports of call. This will give you an opportunity to experience several different countries in one trip.