Okay, I think I've narrowed it down to these two. (Unless Windstar gives us about 50% off!) <BR> <BR>We want to visit the Greek Isles for about 12 days in the Spring of 2002. <BR> <BR>Anybody have any input? We're first-time <BR>cruisers! Thanks!

I have been on Renaissance twice, once in the Greek Isles. Both trips were really great. I've also been on Windstar twice which was also great but twice the cost of Renaissance. I have no experience with Orient so I can't help you out there. We liked Renaissance enough that we have another cruise with them booked for this fall.

We sailed on Orient a few years ago to Greece and Turkey. We really enjoyed the cruise as it was pretty laid back (no formal nights) and it's a smaller ship so there aren't as many people. The thing I like about Orient is that they include stays in the cities at the beginning and end so that you have a little more time to explore, Athens and Istanbul on this particular cruise.

I can only add that my TA told me to avoid Orient. She said it is okay but not special and doesn't begin to compete with Ren. <BR>Tannya

We went on the Orient lines, Marco Polo about 2 years ago and loved it. Went on their Grand Med cruise. If you are looking for lots of glitter and glitz, this is not the cruise for you. We liked the size of the ship We thought their shore excursions were excellent-very well planned and well priced -we literally saw "Rome in a day", and had an excellent tour of Pompeii. Met some very interesting ship mates, some of whom we still travel with, and will soon be planning a Scandanavia/Russia trip with next summer. Choose this ship if you are more interested in seeing the sights,than in being entertained.

Getting ready to take my 4th Renaissance cruise. Did a 22 day Ren cruise last August which included Greek Isles. Fabulous. Santorini so beautiful. Love Renaissance. Very casual, friendly, staff really gets to know you - will accommodate you. Rooms are larger than most ships - opt for a C or D booking with balcony. Found that most of the shore excursions weren't necessary to book. Taxis are waiting at dockside to take you anywhere and the drivers are just like tour guides. They WANT to show you their islands/cities. Make sure you negotiate with them - and also make sure you find out if the taxi is air conditioned (and working). Also,you might get close to the driver and see if he smells (european deodorant)! Most of the islands you can see on foot. The ship docks right in the heart of the touring area.

Thank you all. Renaissance it is. <BR> <BR>This is such a great forum. It's been *very* helpful. <BR> <BR>Lynda