Expert: Barbon - 1/5/2004

Question
Hi Barbon,

Thanks for being available for questions.  My wife and I are considering a cruise to Bermuda out of NYC/NJ(US).  We've both cruised before but it was very long ago and are unsure about some things.  Is the line that important for a one week cruise to such a short distance?  Any suggestions on line?  The next big question is where on the ship to either book a room or where NOT to?  We're value conscious and flexible but don't like to overpay.  Any suggestions in that area?

Thanks in advance,
Dave W.

Answer
Hi Dave,
  First let me apologize for the delay in answering your question.  The Allexperts site was down last evening and I was not able to get into the site to answer your question.
  Our favorite cruiseline is Celebrity, we find their service and amentities to be top notch.  Most of the lines (Celebrity included), send their older (refurbised) ships to Bermuda.  I do not think that the larger, newer megaships can dock in Bermuda.  However, these cruises from the east coast are very popular and do book up.  Bermuda is one of the few islands we choose to do by land rather then sea, so I have not cruised there.  
  As for where to book on a ship.  Never book under the pool deck, under/over the nightclubs, gym or around the disco.  Many of the lido type of dining rooms are carpeted so you would be ok under these, we have booked rooms in these locations and have never had a problem. We try to stay clear of the elevators to avoid a lot of traffic going by our room.  Never book a guarentee room or a run of ship.  Yes, you get a good price, but your room could be ANYWHERE.  Even if you book a guarentee for a balcony room or suite, remember, again, they put you where they want in that catagory and you have no say.  However, the pricing is usually very good this way so if you don't care where you are located this would be suitable for you.  
  I would also suggest that you visit a reputable cruise only agency in your area.  They will have a lot of information on all of the ships and could also guide you as to which one would best suit your needs.  You also mention the line being important for a one week cruise.  When you do an island type of cruise you spend a lot of time out on the decks and the ship is very important as opposed to Europe or Alaska where you may tend to tour more.  When we did Alaska in May, we went for itinerary rather then the ship, but when doing the caribbean we ALWAYS consider the ship and line the most important factor.
  As for pricing, with the internet as a factor you will not find pricing that far apart from agency to agency as it was years ago.  Now the pricing is available for comparison to everyone.  Try to find a reputable agent, we always use the same one, and find his pricing always fair.
  I hope this helps you get started, and let me know if you have any further questions.
Barbara
Barbon2@aol.com