I’ve LOVED this series and am looking forward to your next one. I really appreciate your positive vibe EVEN when you’re informing us of some of the negatives. Now that I’m retired, I’ll be cruising solo on Norwegian (Getaway for 1 week in January, 2025, Viva for 2 weeks on a b2b in February, 2025, and 1 week on the Sun in September, 2026) and find your videos helpful on what to expect. Keep up the good work!
@@keithscherer7184 thanks so much, Keith! Wow, that’s great, lots to look forward to! I loved sailing on the Getaway and I’d love to check out the other ships! Enjoy your cruises! 🚢
Hi Ben! I always enjoy your cruise videos. Thanks for the heads up about LeHavre. Gee whiz! Who wants to travel 2 hours to Paris? It looks like your itinerary would be a nice one. And I agree about Amsterdam. I’ve heard negative things about it. Our grandson was there a couple of years ago for a couple of days and he described it as “dark”. My husband and I are getting ready to go on a T/A cruise from Miami to Southampton on February 7th. Can’t wait! We’ll be on the Breakaway and staying in the Haven. We’re so excited! Blessings to you! ❤️
@@peachtreelady thanks so much, Linda! Le Havre is one of my least favorite ports 😂 it’s so far away from Paris! Unless you’re on a cruise line excursion, I wouldn’t bother going on your own. Amsterdam is great but plenty of negatives! Your T/A sounds great! Enjoy your cruise and enjoy the Haven! Thanks again for watching 😁
For me, staying on the ship at some of the ports is a plus. There's less people on this ship. You get to do a whole lot more and less lines. So for the "paris" port , since it really isn't paris, I would stay on the ship and be happy with that. I've been to paris and know that if I want to go back.I would fly in and spend a week there. and for Amsterdam, I'd love to see the city, but I don't need to see all the naughtiness, I'm old.I have already seen enough naughtiness!! haha. On a whole, would you say you like the Prima or the Dawn better? I think I like the smaller ships better because I don't wanna be trying to get on and off at different ports with 7000+ people. 3000 is more than enough. Great video series really loved it, and it gave me a lot of inspiration
@@brendalogan6281 thank you for watching early, Brenda! You’re totally right about staying on the ship and taking advantage of the lower crowds. The “Paris” day was great for me staying on board, no complaints! If I’m just comparing the ships then I definitely prefer the Prima over the Dawn. More options and a newer ship but the Dawn was great, definitely a good size ship. I’m glad I give you inspiration 😁 what are too going to do with your new inspiration? 😂
Hi Ben...I just had to tell you that I found myself relating with so many feelings you had and things you did preparing to disembark and also during/after disembarking...I have only been on one cruise, this past August, but I was really bummed when it was over and had many of the same feelings you expressed in this video and I loved the end when you said, now I have to buy some food...I can totally relate as I purchased a $14 prepackaged sandwich at the train station on the way home from my cruise...how I missed my lovely cruise food.😊 Also, thank you for letting everyone know how important it is to recognize the crew as some may not realize how much it does for their careers to have those cards turned in and/or being mentioned on post cruise surveys like Princess uses. Thanks, again, Ben and take care!
@@janenicholls111 thank you for your kind comment, Jane! I’m glad you can relate to my feelings 😂 buying food after a cruise is so sad! Recognition for the crew is extremely important and I wish more people took the time to do it as the crew would do anything to make a guest’s cruise better. Hopefully I’ve reminded a few people! Thanks again, Jane! 😁
Hi Ben - I highly recommend going ashore in Le Havre. A 10 Euro taxi to the train station and a 50min train ride to Rouen brings you to a delightful and easily walkable french town. It is one of our favorite ports. Ps. Thanks for all the info you share from your travels.
Thanks for sharing your experience, especially with your inside knowledge. We’ve only been on four cruises so far since our retirement and only had good experiences. I agree that the saddest day is disembarkation and the fact that you need to start cooking and cleaning for yourself! If we don’t cruise again before you, we’ll still get to enjoy your journey.
@@paulknowles8469 cheers, Paul! Cruising is always great fun! Cooking and cleaning after the cruise is not fun 😂 hopefully I’ll be cruising again soon!
@@TravelWithBen121 I think you’ll cruise before us, we need to put a new roof on our house before spending more money! I’m looking forward to seeing your next cruise!
Ben, great video. Pros and cons with any ship. Choosing the cruise line, ship and itinerary can be challenging. I was on NCL Dawn on her first voyage. We had a great time. Thank you for sharing your experience. Look forward to your videos.
Hi Ben! I ALWAYS make out the hero cards to recognize outstanding service. The cruise line takes your comments seriously and it helps staff members advance within the company.
Hi Ben. Enjoyed all your Norwegian Dawn videos. I was on that ship in July. I too am.a solo traveller and had a wonderful time on board. Am planning on my next cruise for next year. Happy travelling.
Great stuff Ben. I'm now hooked again on cruising after doing a solo med on the Getaway. I can't believe how good deals are if you wait till the last couple of days and book and then get flights. Best of luck on your next one.
@@nealohara782 cheers, Neal! You’re totally right, the prices on NCL go extremely low if there’s still availability less than a week before the sail date, as long as you can get to the port, you’ll get a great deal!
Great video, very fair ie I agree with you. The bigger ships are great if you want ugly tubes blocking the view from your cabin, the feeling you’re in a shopping mall rather than at sea and top decks that look like gaudy birthday cakes. I’m not a fan. For one thing, many of the new NCL ships aren’t being built with libraries and games rooms. And as you say, the smaller ports are out, places like Hawaii and other parts of Polynesia won’t let the mega ships anywhere near, so you can’t even go anywhere by tender. We went to French Polynesia and Hawaii on the Norwegian Spirit last year and it was one of the best experiences of our life. I don’t agree that areas such as the front of the Dawn are wasted space, I’d say they’re quiet spots to be treasured - you won’t find them on the theme park ships! I do think the kiddies’ play park could usefully be turned into a Great Outdoors area ie the Garden Cafe outdoor extension, they’re my favourite spot on any NCL ship that has them. We also find the smaller ships friendlier in that you bump into people again and again. And of course, the older, smaller ships are usually cheaper. Bad news on the eating front, it’s just been announced that the Chinese restaurants such as Bamboo/Jasmine are going paid-for. NCL do talk rubbish about the casinos, they could as easily make it non-smoking, but they know that smokers won’t go in if they can’t puff on their fags, while the non-smokers will go in because they’re dying for a game. Addicts everywhere!
@@Krypto64 there’s definitely more options for smaller ships, Martin! Big ships seem to be stuck in the Caribbean. I don’t think the ‘dead space’ is a bad thing, it’s great to have a quiet area that won’t be crowded but the fact there’s nothing there means people will not many another option which makes other areas more crowded. People rule out older or smaller ships but like you say, there’s some great deals to be had!
Ben, I thoroughly enjoyed every video of this cruise series, including today’s summary. I’ll definitely checkout your brand of suitcase when I’m in the market for a new piece. I would love to have a suitcase with wheels that spin around in Al directions.
I do stay on the ship sometimes when at a port or I just jump off and jump on. I could travel alone but it is different for women than it is men. I do agree with you about them getting you to the place they say they are docking.
@@carolleiter6027 I totally agree with you, Carol! Sometimes it’s great to stay on the ship and enjoy it with lower crowds. I agree solo travel is different for women but still possible. A lot more female solo cruisers on this cruise than males. Itinerary says “Paris”, you should get me to Paris 😂
I agree with you, it is different for women. Especially in South America and the Middle East. And those are two areas I would love to explore but safety wise. I really feel like I would need a man with me. And I am not that type of female, I am very independent, and do everything on my own, but those are the two areas of the world that women just cannot explore themselves even if they go with another woman it’s still not safe. I think the only way you could do it if you were part of a tour group.
Belgium is very randomly on my list of favorite places I have been ( although I have never cruised there - only land travel). Bruges and Antwerp are so fun. Beautiful, charming, almost magical. I’m a fan.
I so enjoy traveling with you while I am at work. 😊 It truly sucks when one has to pay for their food and do all the other everyday stuff once we leave the ship.
Wonderful video. I have sailed on the Dawn before and after her refurbishment and enjoyed my cruises very much. For a few years she was homeported in Boston for Bermuda runs, and a two week Southern Caribbean round trip from Boston. If she returns to Boston, I'd sail on the Dawn again.
Thank you Ben for another great adventure. Look forward to your next cruise wherever that might be. I've taken your decision to stay on the ship in France instead of 4 hours on a bus back and forth to Paris.
I’ve enjoyed your cruise journey. I just got back from my vacation, which started 5 September, so I watched the videos all at once. I think there will be a cruise in my future, probably 2025.
I think what you won is a "wine to go" glass, not a coffee mug!!! (no handle) LOL Oh, and smart cruisers walk off with their luggage (like you do!) because you can go anytime you want.
I just cannot believe they let anybody smoke indoors anywhere in the year 2024. And it also blows my mind that when I was growing up, you could smoke everywhere. We were just so used to it but now that they banded everywhere you can smell it instantly and it’s just a really big buzz kill. For sure And I agree with you, cities should make it easy for Tourist, I was just having this talk with the guy at the front desk here in Orlando when I was checking in yesterday because I took the train down here and then I got on the bus and took it to the hotel and everything was really smooth, but then from the bus stop to my hotel there was no sidewalk . That just blows my mind because Orlando is a city built for nothing but tourism. But their trains don’t go to the airport and don’t go to their theme parks. So that’s another thing that it’s just mismanaged. It just cracks me up that they really are missing out on so much revenue because even the train system they do have where you could take a bus to the airport or the theme parks. Don’t run at night and don’t run on the weekends like they just work office hours. whoever is the city planner for Orlando should definitely be fired. And they need more sidewalks because I just had to walk on the road with two big pieces of luggage. I guess everybody just assumes that you’re coming by car. But especially around Disney World, because they attract so many international travelers too. Specially people from Europe and they probably expect a fly in catch the train and go to the theme park. But then they’re gonna get on a bus and then there’s not even gonna be a sidewalk for them to get to a hotel. And a lot of younger generations don’t drive and want more mass transit options.
@@JustShelby888 you’re right, Shelby! Smoking inside is disgusting and it did ruin the experience of being in the casino and I spent less time in there because of the smoking! Sometimes I had to walk through to get to the theatre and even walking through was bad! I agree about public transport, it’s much much better in Europe compared to the US but sometimes it’s not easy to even buy a ticket! They should want everyone to have access to public transport so make it easy for everyone! Especially are major tourist attractions like Disney world!
I love your videos and adventures. I am hoping to try solo traveling next year for the first time. I am not as brave as you so we shall see. Thank you again.
I was on this ship in 2017. Had zero issues and saw no problems. Embarkation and disembarking was fast and easy. Overall a solid time. I miss my steward haha.
@TravelWithBen121 Yeah the food was good. I also tried not to be a glutton haha. I ate like normal, but had a ton of ice cream from that machine. I worked out very early in the morning too like I do during the week. I tried to keep my same routine while mixing it with fun. Hope to do a cruise again in the future. Just not in the cards now unfortunately.
I've cruised several different cruise lines, but Disney is the only one (so far) that I've done multiple ships. My favorite is the Wonder which is the smallest and second oldest in the line. Love that ship! Where to next, Ben? 🙂
Hey Lucky! I love your compilation videos. I do watch each day, too. My bucket list is growing, thanks to you! So, next stop?? The US?? Hahaaa...I know the answer to that!
@@hollyecf thank you for watching everyday, Fredwina! I appreciate it very much and I like reading your comments 😁 next stop? Maybe the US! I’d love to! Where should I go in the US? 👀
@@Jacqueline-s6x I’ve never taken anything or done anything to help on rough days, Jacqueline! Just got to ride it out. There are medicines you can take and other things you can do but I can’t recommend any because I’ve never used any 😁
@@JohnWelch-iy2bd sounds great, John! The Dawn is great, I’d definitely cruise on the Dawn again. My job on ships was in entertainment 😁 thank you for watching!
Hello, Ben, looks like a great experience ! But as with Chinese philosophy, every thing we do is composed of "Yin" and "Yang" polarities. You got something nice and positive and you also got something negative. They mix up to offer us "reality" in life in different ratios. But your cruise experience has been largely on the positive and pleasant side. Then, there are people who by nature feel bad even if in heaven. Believe me you are NOT one of them. Looking forward to seeing more from you. But as your country fellow Shakespeare said, "Parting is such a sweet sorrow!"
I think I disagree with you about Le Havre. It's certainly not the prettiest city in France (to say the least), but the centre is actually a UNESCO world heritage site because it's one of the best examples of post war concrete architecture. Plus there are the hanging gardens and original cathedral, each worth a look. Nearby Etretat and Honfleur are both lovely. I'd definitely agree about not going to Paris though - too far and you would end up with so little time to do any justice to the city.
I have cruised ships of most sizes and usually find something good about all of them. I've found, however, I prefer ships that are a little larger because there are more and better public spaces and dining options. I love a great observation lounge and a good atrium. The age of the ship isn't really a problem most of the time. However, a small ship with fewer passengers can be nice as well. I cruised the NCL Prima which is a pretty large ship and didn't really like it that much ... while it had great dining options (the Indulge Food Hall was great especially), the public spaces weren't spacious and the venues were too small for the scheduled activities and for the number of passengers who wished to attend. Even trivia, held in Sid Norman's, was over crowded and would've been better in another venue. The other problem was my cruise was a transatlantic crossing and the weather was terrible (of course) for a lot of it and the Prima isn't really set up for bad weather ... no one could use the outdoor spaces (in fact they drained the pools and hot tubs) and we were all crammed in together in the inadequate public spaces ... especially on sea days. I do like options for entertainment --- but I found on the Prima people were lining up at Sid Norman's or the comedy club 2 hours to 90 minutes before the show ... I don't cruise to stand in a hallway for an hour and a half to get a seat in those venues. On some of the older, larger ships they have things like Howl at the Moon and other entertainment I really enjoyed and didn't have to queue up to watch. I really appreciate you taking the time to note your vacation heroes ... I also make sure and take photos of name tags of staff who I wish to acknowledge and when I get an "after cruise survey," I make sure to mention them and attach photos if needed.
@@SherryAnnOfTheWest I agree with everything you said, Sherry Ann! But I did love the Prima, you’re right about small venues and lack of public spaces but it’s a beautiful new ship! Good and bad in everyday ship and itinerary! Overall, never had a bad experience 😁
I’ve LOVED this series and am looking forward to your next one. I really appreciate your positive vibe EVEN when you’re informing us of some of the negatives. Now that I’m retired, I’ll be cruising solo on Norwegian (Getaway for 1 week in January, 2025, Viva for 2 weeks on a b2b in February, 2025, and 1 week on the Sun in September, 2026) and find your videos helpful on what to expect. Keep up the good work!
@@keithscherer7184 thanks so much, Keith! Wow, that’s great, lots to look forward to! I loved sailing on the Getaway and I’d love to check out the other ships! Enjoy your cruises! 🚢
Wonderful series, Ben - thank you for sharing! Looking forward to your next adventure!
@@dakotaz11 thank you, Dawn! Me too 😁
Hi Ben! I always enjoy your cruise videos. Thanks for the heads up about LeHavre. Gee whiz! Who wants to travel 2 hours to Paris? It looks like your itinerary would be a nice one. And I agree about Amsterdam. I’ve heard negative things about it. Our grandson was there a couple of years ago for a couple of days and he described it as “dark”. My husband and I are getting ready to go on a T/A cruise from Miami to Southampton on February 7th. Can’t wait! We’ll be on the Breakaway and staying in the Haven. We’re so excited! Blessings to you! ❤️
@@peachtreelady thanks so much, Linda! Le Havre is one of my least favorite ports 😂 it’s so far away from Paris! Unless you’re on a cruise line excursion, I wouldn’t bother going on your own. Amsterdam is great but plenty of negatives! Your T/A sounds great! Enjoy your cruise and enjoy the Haven! Thanks again for watching 😁
@ Thanks Ben! We’ll be in Britain for 4 days, visiting London, Oxford, Cotswolds and Bath. Whew! :)
@ you’ll go to some places in England that I’ve never been to 😂 enjoy!
For me, staying on the ship at some of the ports is a plus. There's less people on this ship. You get to do a whole lot more and less lines. So for the "paris" port , since it really isn't paris, I would stay on the ship and be happy with that. I've been to paris and know that if I want to go back.I would fly in and spend a week there. and for Amsterdam, I'd love to see the city, but I don't need to see all the naughtiness, I'm old.I have already seen enough naughtiness!! haha. On a whole, would you say you like the Prima or the Dawn better? I think I like the smaller ships better because I don't wanna be trying to get on and off at different ports with 7000+ people. 3000 is more than enough. Great video series really loved it, and it gave me a lot of inspiration
Great review. Looking forward to your new experience and next ship and interesting itinary
@@brendalogan6281 thank you for watching early, Brenda! You’re totally right about staying on the ship and taking advantage of the lower crowds. The “Paris” day was great for me staying on board, no complaints! If I’m just comparing the ships then I definitely prefer the Prima over the Dawn. More options and a newer ship but the Dawn was great, definitely a good size ship. I’m glad I give you inspiration 😁 what are too going to do with your new inspiration? 😂
@@stefancobh thank you, Stefan! Hopefully the next adventure is just around the corner! 😁
Yes Amsterdam is a little Mary J friendly and other recreational stuff
Hi Ben...I just had to tell you that I found myself relating with so many feelings you had and things you did preparing to disembark and also during/after disembarking...I have only been on one cruise, this past August, but I was really bummed when it was over and had many of the same feelings you expressed in this video and I loved the end when you said, now I have to buy some food...I can totally relate as I purchased a $14 prepackaged sandwich at the train station on the way home from my cruise...how I missed my lovely cruise food.😊
Also, thank you for letting everyone know how important it is to recognize the crew as some may not realize how much it does for their careers to have those cards turned in and/or being mentioned on post cruise surveys like Princess uses. Thanks, again, Ben and take care!
@@janenicholls111 thank you for your kind comment, Jane! I’m glad you can relate to my feelings 😂 buying food after a cruise is so sad! Recognition for the crew is extremely important and I wish more people took the time to do it as the crew would do anything to make a guest’s cruise better. Hopefully I’ve reminded a few people! Thanks again, Jane! 😁
Thanks Ben.. Love traveling the world thru your eyes. Can't wait for the next trip..
@@johng963 cheers, John!
Another great series! Thoroughly enjoyed it..thanks for sharing your experiences with us! Can't wait for the next adventure!
@@estellegreyling8861 thank you, Estelle! I appreciate you watching 😁 next adventure coming soon!
Thanks so much for sharing your final experiences for this journey Ben! You are my hero!!!!
@@dr.ikeavina3761 cheers, Dr Ike!
Your videos help me to get through the days between my cruises. It's also encouraging me to get back to Europe. Thanks for all you do!
Cheers, Shawn! Enjoy your cruises!
We share the same sentiment. I loved Brugge!
@@mavicdelacerna3386 great, Mavic!
Hi Ben - I highly recommend going ashore in Le Havre. A 10 Euro taxi to the train station and a 50min train ride to Rouen brings you to a delightful and easily walkable french town. It is one of our favorite ports. Ps. Thanks for all the info you share from your travels.
@@CorinnaRogers thanks for the advice, Corinna! 😁
Thanks for sharing your experience, especially with your inside knowledge. We’ve only been on four cruises so far since our retirement and only had good experiences. I agree that the saddest day is disembarkation and the fact that you need to start cooking and cleaning for yourself! If we don’t cruise again before you, we’ll still get to enjoy your journey.
@@paulknowles8469 cheers, Paul! Cruising is always great fun! Cooking and cleaning after the cruise is not fun 😂 hopefully I’ll be cruising again soon!
@@TravelWithBen121 I think you’ll cruise before us, we need to put a new roof on our house before spending more money! I’m looking forward to seeing your next cruise!
Ben, great video. Pros and cons with any ship. Choosing the cruise line, ship and itinerary can be challenging. I was on NCL Dawn on her first voyage. We had a great time. Thank you for sharing your experience. Look forward to your videos.
@@Eugenia-1982 thank you, Eugenia! I totally agree pros and cons to everything but overall it was great! New adventure coming soon!
Hi Ben! I ALWAYS make out the hero cards to recognize outstanding service. The cruise line takes your comments seriously and it helps staff members advance within the company.
@@vanessawyndham8791 you’re totally right, Vanessa! I wish everyone did them.
What a fun trip Ben. I enjoy your solo trips. I hope to do my first solo trip soon. Waiting to see your next adventure!
@@Bert-sh8te very fun trip, Bert! Thank you!
Hi Ben. Enjoyed all your Norwegian Dawn videos. I was on that ship in July. I too am.a solo traveller and had a wonderful time on board. Am planning on my next cruise for next year. Happy travelling.
@@johnabela1019 cheers, John! I loved the Dawn. Enjoy your next cruise 😁
Great stuff Ben. I'm now hooked again on cruising after doing a solo med on the Getaway. I can't believe how good deals are if you wait till the last couple of days and book and then get flights. Best of luck on your next one.
@@nealohara782 cheers, Neal! You’re totally right, the prices on NCL go extremely low if there’s still availability less than a week before the sail date, as long as you can get to the port, you’ll get a great deal!
Thank you Ben for the awesome vlog of your adventures on the NCL Dawn! I’ll be on the Dawn on Oct 27 Athens to Barcelona and am so excited!
@@igot4dogs140 thank you so much for watching! Wow, that’s great! You’ll love the Dawn, I wanna go back 😂 enjoy your cruise!
Great video, very fair ie I agree with you. The bigger ships are great if you want ugly tubes blocking the view from your cabin, the feeling you’re in a shopping mall rather than at sea and top decks that look like gaudy birthday cakes. I’m not a fan. For one thing, many of the new NCL ships aren’t being built with libraries and games rooms. And as you say, the smaller ports are out, places like Hawaii and other parts of Polynesia won’t let the mega ships anywhere near, so you can’t even go anywhere by tender. We went to French Polynesia and Hawaii on the Norwegian Spirit last year and it was one of the best experiences of our life.
I don’t agree that areas such as the front of the Dawn are wasted space, I’d say they’re quiet spots to be treasured - you won’t find them on the theme park ships! I do think the kiddies’ play park could usefully be turned into a Great Outdoors area ie the Garden Cafe outdoor extension, they’re my favourite spot on any NCL ship that has them.
We also find the smaller ships friendlier in that you bump into people again and again.
And of course, the older, smaller ships are usually cheaper.
Bad news on the eating front, it’s just been announced that the Chinese restaurants such as Bamboo/Jasmine are going paid-for.
NCL do talk rubbish about the casinos, they could as easily make it non-smoking, but they know that smokers won’t go in if they can’t puff on their fags, while the non-smokers will go in because they’re dying for a game. Addicts everywhere!
@@Krypto64 there’s definitely more options for smaller ships, Martin! Big ships seem to be stuck in the Caribbean. I don’t think the ‘dead space’ is a bad thing, it’s great to have a quiet area that won’t be crowded but the fact there’s nothing there means people will not many another option which makes other areas more crowded. People rule out older or smaller ships but like you say, there’s some great deals to be had!
Ben, I thoroughly enjoyed every video of this cruise series, including today’s summary. I’ll definitely checkout your brand of suitcase when I’m in the market for a new piece. I would love to have a suitcase with wheels that spin around in Al directions.
@@mitchellbarnow1709 cheers, Mitchell! It was a great cruise 😁 I love having a suitcase that spins 360!
@@TravelWithBen121That sounds awesome 👏
Great job Ben! We traveled on the NCL Sun last November for three weeks and it was an old ship and very tiny as well... still, we had a great time!
@@chrisrobertson3189 cheers, Chris! That’s great, smaller ships definitely offer something different. Positives and negatives to big and small ships!
Hope to see you soon on the next Cruise
Take care😊
@@cattimascha1985 I hope so too, Catti! Thank you 😁
I do stay on the ship sometimes when at a port or I just jump off and jump on. I could travel alone but it is different for women than it is men.
I do agree with you about them getting you to the place they say they are docking.
@@carolleiter6027 I totally agree with you, Carol! Sometimes it’s great to stay on the ship and enjoy it with lower crowds. I agree solo travel is different for women but still possible. A lot more female solo cruisers on this cruise than males. Itinerary says “Paris”, you should get me to Paris 😂
I agree with you, it is different for women. Especially in South America and the Middle East. And those are two areas I would love to explore but safety wise. I really feel like I would need a man with me. And I am not that type of female, I am very independent, and do everything on my own, but those are the two areas of the world that women just cannot explore themselves even if they go with another woman it’s still not safe. I think the only way you could do it if you were part of a tour group.
@@JustShelby888 I definitely agree with you, Shelby! A tour group is a great option for these areas of the world. I’d love to go there too!
Belgium is very randomly on my list of favorite places I have been ( although I have never cruised there - only land travel). Bruges and Antwerp are so fun. Beautiful, charming, almost magical. I’m a fan.
@@katcalico9142 I was surprised too, Kat 😂
I so enjoy traveling with you while I am at work. 😊
It truly sucks when one has to pay for their food and do all the other everyday stuff once we leave the ship.
@@ja_sweet_tart4539 thank you so much for traveling with me! The first time you pay for food after a cruise is painful HAHA but back to reality! 😂
Wonderful video. I have sailed on the Dawn before and after her refurbishment and enjoyed my cruises very much. For a few years she was homeported in Boston for Bermuda runs, and a two week Southern Caribbean round trip from Boston. If she returns to Boston, I'd sail on the Dawn again.
@@barbnahoumi65 sounds great, Barb! I’d sail on the Dawn again too 😁
Thank you Ben for another great adventure. Look forward to your next cruise wherever that might be. I've taken your decision to stay on the ship in France instead of 4 hours on a bus back and forth to Paris.
@@peterrichold9045 cheers, Peter!
I’ve enjoyed your cruise journey. I just got back from my vacation, which started 5 September, so I watched the videos all at once. I think there will be a cruise in my future, probably 2025.
@@daniellilienkamp5202 cheers, Daniel! I hope you enjoyed your vacation 😁
@@TravelWithBen121 it was great! It used planes, trains, and automobiles, but no cruise.
I agree with the crew of Norwegian Dawn - they're the best!!
@@englishmadeeasy5377 never had a bad experience!
Great time! Be safe❤🎉
@@sheilaathay2034 thank you, Sheila! A lot of fun 🤩
I think what you won is a "wine to go" glass, not a coffee mug!!! (no handle) LOL
Oh, and smart cruisers walk off with their luggage (like you do!) because you can go anytime you want.
@@SherryAnnOfTheWest maybe you’re right, Sherry Ann! Wine or coffee, depends what mood you’re in 😂
You must have gotten on the day we got off!
Love your videos keep them coming :)
When are you doing Australian?
@@matthewcollins2746 I boarded on August 26 😁 hopefully I can go to AUS soon! Cheers, Matthew 👍
Well done Ben!
@@madamenicoleNY thank you, Nicole 😁
@ Have fun on your next escapade! How may I contact you directly?
@ Instagram or email, in the description.
I just cannot believe they let anybody smoke indoors anywhere in the year 2024. And it also blows my mind that when I was growing up, you could smoke everywhere. We were just so used to it but now that they banded everywhere you can smell it instantly and it’s just a really big buzz kill. For sure
And I agree with you, cities should make it easy for Tourist, I was just having this talk with the guy at the front desk here in Orlando when I was checking in yesterday because I took the train down here and then I got on the bus and took it to the hotel and everything was really smooth, but then from the bus stop to my hotel there was no sidewalk . That just blows my mind because Orlando is a city built for nothing but tourism. But their trains don’t go to the airport and don’t go to their theme parks. So that’s another thing that it’s just mismanaged. It just cracks me up that they really are missing out on so much revenue because even the train system they do have where you could take a bus to the airport or the theme parks. Don’t run at night and don’t run on the weekends like they just work office hours. whoever is the city planner for Orlando should definitely be fired. And they need more sidewalks because I just had to walk on the road with two big pieces of luggage. I guess everybody just assumes that you’re coming by car. But especially around Disney World, because they attract so many international travelers too. Specially people from Europe and they probably expect a fly in catch the train and go to the theme park. But then they’re gonna get on a bus and then there’s not even gonna be a sidewalk for them to get to a hotel. And a lot of younger generations don’t drive and want more mass transit options.
@@JustShelby888 you’re right, Shelby! Smoking inside is disgusting and it did ruin the experience of being in the casino and I spent less time in there because of the smoking! Sometimes I had to walk through to get to the theatre and even walking through was bad! I agree about public transport, it’s much much better in Europe compared to the US but sometimes it’s not easy to even buy a ticket! They should want everyone to have access to public transport so make it easy for everyone! Especially are major tourist attractions like Disney world!
I'd hate to go back to my cabin with my hair/clothes stinking of smoke 🤮
Love this series, thanks for sharing.
@@cathy1672 thanks, Cathy!
Thank you for EVERYTHING you provide to us, Ben. You’re amazing. 🫶
@@aprilrich807 you’re welcome! Thanks so much, April!
I love your videos and adventures. I am hoping to try solo traveling next year for the first time. I am not as brave as you so we shall see. Thank you again.
@@barbara-rosevilleca6353 life is too short, Barbara 😁 go for it!
Love your cruise series Ben!!
@@yenphung8809 thanks so much, Yen!
I was on this ship in 2017. Had zero issues and saw no problems. Embarkation and disembarking was fast and easy. Overall a solid time. I miss my steward haha.
@@20041027redsox sounds great! I agree embarking and disembarking was easy and quick! I miss the food 😂
@TravelWithBen121 Yeah the food was good. I also tried not to be a glutton haha. I ate like normal, but had a ton of ice cream from that machine. I worked out very early in the morning too like I do during the week. I tried to keep my same routine while mixing it with fun. Hope to do a cruise again in the future. Just not in the cards now unfortunately.
Great video. I always enjoyed your video
@@cwretiredat53 thank you, Collatta 😁
I've cruised several different cruise lines, but Disney is the only one (so far) that I've done multiple ships. My favorite is the Wonder which is the smallest and second oldest in the line. Love that ship! Where to next, Ben? 🙂
@@matthewhildebrandt1901 sounds great, Matthew! I’d love to try different ships and different cruise lines 😁 where to next?? Who knows 😂
Thanks , Ben.
@@anda1anda2 thank you, Anda! 😁
Love your honest review ,agree hard to find good travel partner! So my plan is to travel Solo in future, have you been on the ship Joy?
@@deba175 thank you, Deb! I have not been on the Joy, I’d love to one day! Every ship offers something different and exciting! 😁
Hey Lucky! I love your compilation videos. I do watch each day, too. My bucket list is growing, thanks to you! So, next stop?? The US?? Hahaaa...I know the answer to that!
@@hollyecf thank you for watching everyday, Fredwina! I appreciate it very much and I like reading your comments 😁 next stop? Maybe the US! I’d love to! Where should I go in the US? 👀
@@TravelWithBen121 Any where but Florida...Hurricanes suck.
Alain was the G,M. when I was on the Dawn.
Ok what do you put on your pancakes because it looks so good 🥞
@@karinmiranda2892 my ‘go to’ breakfast at the buffet is: pancakes with whipped cream and mixed fruit 🤩
I love your videos 💕💕💕
@@TravelWithBen121 ok I got to try that 💕💕💕
Curious...what ships have you worked on, and in what capacity? Thanks. 🚢
@@jchristophem4406 I talk about it here 😁 th-cam.com/video/FPcjeCigw28/w-d-xo.htmlsi=e99SgOUVl8pB15gR
Hi Ben I was wondering what are the best ways to handle rough sea days
@@Jacqueline-s6x I’ve never taken anything or done anything to help on rough days, Jacqueline! Just got to ride it out. There are medicines you can take and other things you can do but I can’t recommend any because I’ve never used any 😁
I am going on the Dawn leaving Friday September 27. my second time on the ship. What job did you have on the ship? I really enjoyed your videos
@@JohnWelch-iy2bd sounds great, John! The Dawn is great, I’d definitely cruise on the Dawn again. My job on ships was in entertainment 😁 thank you for watching!
Hello, Ben, looks like a great experience ! But as with Chinese philosophy, every thing we do is composed of "Yin" and "Yang" polarities. You got something nice and positive and you also got something negative. They mix up to offer us "reality" in life in different ratios. But your cruise experience has been largely on the positive and pleasant side. Then, there are people who by nature feel bad even if in heaven. Believe me you are NOT one of them. Looking forward to seeing more from you. But as your country fellow Shakespeare said, "Parting is such a sweet sorrow!"
@@david1234lee always Yin and Yang, David! That’s just life and reality 😁 hopefully new adventures coming soon!
@@TravelWithBen121 Good morning, Ben !Yes, life is chapters of adventures for the brave !
What was your job on the cruise?
@@salliestewart4713 entertainment 😁
I think I disagree with you about Le Havre. It's certainly not the prettiest city in France (to say the least), but the centre is actually a UNESCO world heritage site because it's one of the best examples of post war concrete architecture. Plus there are the hanging gardens and original cathedral, each worth a look. Nearby Etretat and Honfleur are both lovely.
I'd definitely agree about not going to Paris though - too far and you would end up with so little time to do any justice to the city.
@@suppleberry3863 sounds great, Martin 😁
I have cruised ships of most sizes and usually find something good about all of them. I've found, however, I prefer ships that are a little larger because there are more and better public spaces and dining options. I love a great observation lounge and a good atrium.
The age of the ship isn't really a problem most of the time.
However, a small ship with fewer passengers can be nice as well.
I cruised the NCL Prima which is a pretty large ship and didn't really like it that much ... while it had great dining options (the Indulge Food Hall was great especially), the public spaces weren't spacious and the venues were too small for the scheduled activities and for the number of passengers who wished to attend. Even trivia, held in Sid Norman's, was over crowded and would've been better in another venue. The other problem was my cruise was a transatlantic crossing and the weather was terrible (of course) for a lot of it and the Prima isn't really set up for bad weather ... no one could use the outdoor spaces (in fact they drained the pools and hot tubs) and we were all crammed in together in the inadequate public spaces ... especially on sea days.
I do like options for entertainment --- but I found on the Prima people were lining up at Sid Norman's or the comedy club 2 hours to 90 minutes before the show ... I don't cruise to stand in a hallway for an hour and a half to get a seat in those venues. On some of the older, larger ships they have things like Howl at the Moon and other entertainment I really enjoyed and didn't have to queue up to watch.
I really appreciate you taking the time to note your vacation heroes ... I also make sure and take photos of name tags of staff who I wish to acknowledge and when I get an "after cruise survey," I make sure to mention them and attach photos if needed.
@@SherryAnnOfTheWest I agree with everything you said, Sherry Ann! But I did love the Prima, you’re right about small venues and lack of public spaces but it’s a beautiful new ship! Good and bad in everyday ship and itinerary! Overall, never had a bad experience 😁