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If you are eating at 10am you essentially are in brunch almost lunch time at that point. Want it after that? Talk with your butler to have it delivered. I can't imagine eating at like 10am or 11am breakfast then having lunch at 12/1 pm.
Breakfast rush usually doesn’t even start until 8am unless going on an excursion. Ending at 9am is a sign of cost cutting. ✂️ They know when the rush is but ending early, they're being cheeky.
@@willgaukler8979 What you on about? 9am is an early finish for breakfast. Shhhhh! Get real your on holiday and time to relax. I've never been on a cruise that finished breakfast at 9am.
Hi Ben and David. Been looking forward to this video. I agree with the breakfast hours being to short. They should stay open until at least 10am. I'm sorry you didn't have the best Haven experience. It should exceed any expectations especially paying the price for it. As always, love watching your videos and giving your honest opinion. Thank you for all your hard work ❤❤
@@maryanncapece2623 I agree whole heartedly with what you said! to say Ben and David paid for 1st class (butler ,exclusive areas ect) the Haven to me looks all glitz and glamour and status (great sevice from staff ect) but when you look a little deeper its realy not that great as in , menus not changing for the whole cruise but they do in the normal restauants on board, breakfast finishing at 9am ( every cruise i have been on its usualy 9 30 or 10 am)...alothough its usualy just me that goes for breakfast my partner stays in bed till around 11 am (im usualy up at 6 am and up and about as im on holiday) ! I suppose when your booking on Viva or Prima you would have to look at what your getting for the cabin/state room your wanting to book ( be it the Haven, a suite, club balcony suite, balcony,ocean view, inside or a studio) and weigh up the pros and cons of what you actualy get for your hard earned cash with each of those options! ...seems to me they limit some of the eating options in the haven (as in NOT changing the menu) so that you will eat and use some of the other restarants onboard (OR book some of the specialty dining options) were you get more choice and changing menus ect! i suppose as well they do that (now im just being cynical lol) so that you will mix with other passengers and not just stay up in the haven all the time when onboard ship at meal times lol
No 9am is absurd. 10:00 am should be close time. Especially what you pay for Haven. Thank you guys for your review. My wife and I are travel agents and appreciate your reviews.
Breakfast ends at 9am at budget hotels in the US.. and it's always totally slammed at 8:55 lol. I prefer a later breakfast and a snack instead of lunch!
Who wants a scene out of "FALLING DOWN" when the unemployed, divorced engineer who was stuck in LA traffic on a sweltering hot day w/no A/C, at the end of his rope was 2 minutes too late to order breakfast McDonalds...it wasn't a pretty sight!🥓🥚🍞☕🔫☹
I do not understand some people. In another video, they mentioned being insulted by a passenger who blurted out "Not those bloggers again" (or words to that effect) which prompted some commenters to agree, that filming for commercial purposes shouldn't be permitted and I'm thinking to myself, "Who decides which people get to film anything in public and what about all the people who're walking around filming everything on their phones?" There's no such thing as banning people from filming in public, no matter what purpose they're filming it for. It's no one else's damn business so stay home people, if you don't want to be seen in public. Simple!
I don't think that 9am for breakfast is early in general, but when they're putting on entertainment until 1 or 2 in the morning, it definitely is!! I'd say 10 is more reasonable on a cruise at least.
David was in rare form with his zingers and I laughed out loud several times. As usual you did a good job of your ship review. I think that inaugural voyages are usually problematic and somewhat subpar. I always wait a year or two before trying a new ship and find the price has gone down, the service is superb, the shows and performers are in sync with each other and the ship is still as beautiful as day one. She still seem like a fabulous ship and those destinations are on my wish list. Thanks guys for taking us along...I'll be on this voyage in a couple years.
Ok so I got back from our Prima Haven trip. You guys I swear… that was one of the best vacations we ever had. We had a massive balcony with hot tub and multiple seating. The view from the aft was stunning! Service was A+ and food was outstanding. Considering what other cruises charge I say our Haven experience was well worth it!
I must say that breakfast for me is between 10 and 11 lol. Or even later. So with it ending at 9am, is way too short. Thanks so much for all these videos guys. Love watching you!!
The evolution of cruising and cruise ships has changed a lot since the 1980s. I think most people would've been bored with cruising even in the early 2000s, when the purpose of cruising was just that: to CRUISE, slow down, chill out, reignite relationships with plenty of loving. Dressing up and looking good was a big factor, and eating really good food. Nowadays the energy on most commercial cruise ships especially of those with families, is just too frenetic to achieve the level of chill/nirvana of CRUISING that I know from decades ago. Excellent food and beautiful dining locations, plus comfortable beds in tranquil canins, will remain my top priority. Thanks for your review.
You’re not wrong though I do find the sheer escapism quite liberating and chill. You can relax and dress up and have the classic experience but there’s also the high pace adventure
I know that there was a lot of negative things on this ship but I must say it still looks wonderful to me . The food aspect is a huge factor for us and just having a lot of outdoor seating . It’s a shame you paid so much money and it wasn’t worth the price but hope you still had a wonderful birthday 🥳 cruise . Great video as always guys .
It's a fair review though. Wonderful looking, modern, luxurious ship but way too small venues. I'm hoping to try out Viva in 2025 (fully cruised up until then) and am sure it will be fantastic.
The outdoor seating is nice unless the weather is not nice enough to sit outdoors in which case you're kind of screwed because there's not much to do otherwise, the venues are too small if the weather is bad.
I absolutely love your channel!! It’s without a doubt the best cruising channel there is!! The humor you add to your videos always makes me smile. You’re the perfect example of a lovely marriage❤ THANK YOU for all you do.
I haven’t been able to see you gents for awhile and coming back to this has made my day. I laughed so hard! One of your best yet. Thank you, and happy belated birthday, Ben!
Great reviews, Ben and David, and I agree with you on so many points. We were on Prima in August in Northern Europe. It's a beautiful ship overall and our balcony cabin and bathroom were lovely and spacious. No complaints about the cabin. We felt like MDR food was excellent and buffet food was mostly tasty. Service was excellent. We avoided the nickel-and-diming. Sadly, some great venues like Sid's Pour House are too small, like you reported about the Viva. Many lovely spaces, such as Hudson's MDR. But true, like you stated about Viva, there are areas that are choppy and set up in odd ways. We did NOT like having to pass the "HAVEN ONLY" elevators as we left our aft cabin and had to walk to the next set of elevators. It creates clear "classism" and we just disagreed with that set up. The program was VERY full and offered so much for everyone. Saw "Donna Summer" and it was okay. We are seniors but not on our last leg so we don't use go carts and water slides. Feel like so much space devoted to those items that we don't use. Due to being in Northern Europe, had lots of misty and rainy days keeping the outdoor areas wet. Some days they were completely closed down due to rough seas. We think the Prima should be in warmer climates so all her outside spaces and be maximized.
I have to admit I find all that rather conflicting. I am in love with the ship looks and style, but I think I'd agree with your assessments about certain venues being too small. That's something I noticed about the Norwegian Getaway on our last cruise. Some areas of the ship were empty while others - like Sid Norman's - you couldn't get into unless you showed up hours early. (Something I'm not very good at on vacation.) I really appreciate the brutal review. You two are so positive about everything I take extra notice if you find something lacking. So thank you and keep them coming!
By the way, my husband and I just love watching you two take cruises together. You're just so sweet and wholesome together. We have never taken a cruise but my oldest son and his wife went on a Disney cruise with their daughter and his mother in law. So we are thinking about taking one for an anniversary. Our 25th is coming up soon.
We've just come off 11 nights onboard the Getaway and have the same problems with that ship. The venues while great are far too small for the amount of passengers and difficult to get in. Lots of things we wanted to see but just couldn't get in. People were queueing for places like Syd Norman's and Illusionarium an hour and a half before they opened. Loads of entertainment took place in the Atrium which was far too small an area. Half the pool deck taken up by the slides.
We’ve been on both Holland America and Carnival cruises where breakfast in the MDR ends at 9 am and by 10 at the buffet, which took adjusting to. It might, indeed, be a cost cutting measure
We did room service on most days for breakfast on the Noordam on an Alaskan cruise. I believe HAL is one of the last ones not to charge for room service.
We just got done with our first cruise ever! It was on the NCL Sun. We are older, so we purposefully chose a smaller ship. There was really only one show that we were interested in seeing, and it was different rock songs from the 60s to 90s or so. The dancers were amazing. They really brought the energy. They had the whole place tapping feet and singing. I loved NCL. Their staff was amazing. We had a balcony and went to Alaska. Would have liked to see more of that dance team.
We were on the Prima in July on a Northern Europe tour. I wished we could have used those outside space but, since it was the North Sea it was cold. So everyone was inside which made those venues small. I also refused to stand in line to get into a 100 seat music venue. I loved the itinerary but the ship was not suited to the cold in that no outside areas were usable.
I do intermittent fasting and don’t eat breakfast before 10 am. I have done this for two years. Before that I ate breakfast between 6 and 7 am when I wake up. I am not being lazy, just healthier for me!
@@Cruisewith I travel a lot but taking my first cruise this December and it is 34 days long. Since I travel so much, I like to stay consistent with it!
Love your honest review. We took the prima in may, hated the small venues, tiny buffet, lack of seating in buffet and indulge area, no maps, no guidance as to where to go. Only 1 large room, only 1 show. That was my 6th ncl cruise. JUst finished jade in athens, escape to canada, loved the escape
Always appreciate the honesty. There's tons of TH-camrs who are not honest with their ship reviews.... Guess they are trying to earn favor with the cruise lines. I like they ya'll are just honest.
It looks like a nice ship, I do like the cabins, but I would not be tempted to travel on it. It is just too big for me. I would prefer a smaller ship, much smaller. Thank you for the video! (I think the reason they moved the statues was because time was causing them significant damage and they needed the protection of a museum.)
Happy Birthday Ben🎈. Thank you for your reviews guys. I love hearing your opinions. I never never think your being negative. I love your honesty. Love to you both.
Just back from a viva cruise in September, we love NCL but this class of ship needs to find its Mojo and who it is trying to appeal to in our opinion. Our balcony suite was really lovely, spacious, light and great sized shower. The Dining venues were great, varied, beautifully styled and the food was fantastic as usual, and we got our free at sea package as usual, which includes 2 speciality dining bookings each, premium drinks package up to $15 per drink which covers 99% of drinks, $50 dollars off one passengers tour each day, plus basic Wi-Fi for 1 guest. Outdoor space was wonderful but very busy on sea days and it’s the first time I’ve seen some many people booking sun beds early morning then leaving them empty for half the day, so selfish despite signs up saying items will be removed if left alone after 15mins, staff do not enforce this. Agree re venues - too small, and the atrium is lovely but odd design, totally agree with you! The racetrack takes up far too much space! Silly addition, I never saw anyone going in to laser tag either. We ended up staying on the ship on some port days(visited before) and it was fab, felt we had the ship and the infinity pool to ourselves and a respite from very noisy groups who have total disregard for other people. The observation lounge on 17 was our favourite for after dinner drinks,. The crew were fantastic as usual, glad we didn’t book haven this time (too expensive) it really didn’t look up to par compared to the haven we stayed in on on the Bliss last year.Thank you for a great video and review as usual, love you guys! 🥰🏴🇬🇧 ps happy birthday Ben, my birthday was on board too, wee bit older than you pair 😂 nice wee cake delivered to our table at the le bistro (fabulous food) and the decor felt like something out of the set of beauty and the beast, those chandeliers! Unfortunately we couldn’t get a booking for idols when we got onboard, just playing one night, we tried before we came on board but the British site was saying not available till October! we asked to if we wanted to stand at the back which might be available! and Beetlejuice wasn’t to our taste and got slated from people we chatted to afterwards but that’s just a sample so might be fine. Loved the jersey boys and Pricilla etc which we had seen previously on NCL, yip looks like they are cutting corners. Oops sorry I normally just write a line or two! Ps again we got room service breakfast occasionally and it was served later than 9am - odd for the Haven not to do the same.
Totally agree….we were very disappointed with the venues on the Prima……way too small…..and why allow that racetrack so much room? Not many people using the track ( maybe because of the cost?). The food was fabulous and the cabins are lovely. Let’s hope that NCL will learn from their mistakes!
I brought my sons 17 & 26 on the Prima. After not cruising for over 20 years, I must say it was very different. I loved it though. Every ship has it's pros and cons. Next is MSC. Keep up the great videos. I learn so much and love your banter. Thank you from Connecticut.
I agree about breakfast time, recently on our cruise we missed breakfast as well because it ended too early. Loved what you had for breakfast so that might encourage me to get up earlier for sure.
I have just arrived in KL (late in the night) - & whilst I am pottering about (fiddling with unpacking bits) = such a joy to have you 2 lovely fellows to ‘keep me company’!🎖🎖🎖😎😎😎 Glad Ben had a very happy Birthday!🥂🥂🥂🍾🍾🍾
totally agree with the grade of 4 out of 10! The venues are so small!! The seats in the theatre are so uncomfortable. Bathrooms are the best of any ship.
My first cruise was on the Norwegian eons ago and it was awesome. Glad to see the food is still up to par. Love your videos. You are my new guilty pleasure. ❤🛳️🛟⚓️🚢❤
9:00am closer on a Cruise Ship is absolutely RIDICULOUS! 😱10:00/10:30 closing would be far more except able! We’re on vacation after all and quite expensive at that!
9:00am is a bit early for end of breakfast service...9:30 would be a good compromise perhaps in a reduced choice mode...continental....3hrs for rollover lunch prep isn't that long guys...
I think ending breakfast at 9 am is ridiculous. I’m so pleased the food was good for you as our trip on the Breakaway to the Mediterranean this past spring was AWFUL in all the restaurants including the specialty restaurants. I spent my summers in Cannes growing up and it was wonderful to visit it after many years. But, yes, it is expensive! We found the same problem with the size of the venues on the Breakaway and were never able to get into Sid Normans, or any of the other venues. It was such a bad trip that we were given a FCC. We are going on the Epic next year so I hope NCL redeems itself. I think we only had two shows too that were repeated throughout the 16 DAY cruise to accommodate all the guests because the theatre was so SMALL! Hope you had a great birthday!
Thanks for your HONEST review…. We need both positive AND negative review’s, we all know this so your viewpoint, your opinion and not everyone needs to agree, Keep up the good work.
Nice video. Thanks for your review. The outdoor seating with all the lounges and sofas looks really nice. That atrium looks beautiful but I could see what you mean. I appreciate your reviews.
Happy birthday Ben! David you can surprise me with a suite too! I appreciate this video and answers my question of this new NCL ship. I did like everything on NCL Encore to Alaska from last October 2022
Great video boys. The food looks amazing - the decor lovely but yeah, the public space - what's that about! Glad it appear that they have learnt and are making the next ships bigger.
HAPPY (belated) BDAY, Ben!!! Oh my--we're going on Prima for *14 days* in early December (couldn't resist the deal) and I'm worried it will be a horrible, frustrating 2 weeks. Guess I should've waited to see the broader verdict on this class of ship from those I trust. Oh well, at least it will be warm in the Caribbean! Love and trust your channel, even if the news is bad for me. :(
Great to hear this honest review, I hope NCL takes note of all this feedback as they construct their 3rd Prima class for 2025. The pool area and venues really look too small! The go-kart track imo is too big for this size of ship and takes away a lot of deck space from larger pools, for example (as well as being noisy). I think the go-kart track would fit better with their 5th and 6th Prima Class ships which are expected to be 20% bigger.
Also hope NCL keeps their MDRs open later for breakfast! We ended up eating in the buffet most days since the MDR closed for seating at 9, and the buffet was open later.
Doubtful, we went on Encore which is the previous generation of ship and that was the same. Small venues and it had only 1 pool on the top deck. Why they insist on filling the top deck with that massive go-kart track (and on Encore the rear completely taken with a permanent laser quest) I have no idea. These are "nice" things but unfortunately, they're also quite tame and hold very little "replay" value in my opinion. So you do it once and you don't feel like you need to ever do it again. The galaxy pavilion is also much the same and very quickly these venues go the way of all "tech": they get old. quick. And often highlight just how "not ready" this kind of VR is for the masses to use with rides often being out of action for long periods because of broken hardware or weird software niggles. They are still including all this stuff in their latest ships and I really think they need to think again. Just got off Anthem and that was way way better. It's not a very pretty ship, but you can't knock it's function. There is a lot cleverly packed in on that ship.
There should be an area that offers breakfast anytime. We stay up very late and it’s our first cruise next month and it is a blue cruise and there is music drinking and partying. Going on till very very late at night. I’m sure we won’t be joining the crowd. Hoping there’s someplace where we can get a maid to order omelette or something. Otherwise, I guess we’ll be eating the buffet for lunch lol.
In the early days - 1980s - Norwegian was known for their broadway shows and that was on 600 passenger ships. Our first cruise was on the MS Starward in 1982 and there was a full broadway show. It’s disappointing to se that they’re cutting back on them as we really enjoy musical theater.
That was back when they contracted exclusively with the Jean Ann Ryan Company for entertainment/entertainers. And yes, NCL was then known as the best entertainment at sea.
I love you guys. Im a big NCL fan for most of your reasons. There FOOD is outstanding and Ive been on the Breakaway twice and the Jade Food delivery and speciality dining superb I tend to avoid ships during children travel time I prefer traveling when I know children are in school. Since Ive done Haven twice based on your assessment I would not do it on Prima or Viva I think the older ships provide a better experience.
It seems like it has the same problem as other NCL ships I've been on. So much real estate is taken up by paid activities and limited access areas that everything else it cramped. The lounges on the Encore were over capacity on a cruise that was only 65% full, and 2/3rds of the top deck you had to pay to use. Really disappointing for new cruise ships who run the standard iteneraries.
We found the main buffet restaurant on NCL Jade really busy. We complained as we could not find a table on which to eat our food. Absolutely disgusting for a luxury cruise company 🫢
@@PortsladeBySea Hi... You can take your food to La Cucina to eat (for breakfast and lunch). And NCL is not a luxury cruise company if you check their classification. The Haven is luxury but overall they are just a mass-market cruise line.
Once again another great vlog you 2 are brilliant and have me in fits of laughter with your sayings. You should have your own tv program then everyone gets to see how brilliant you ar 👏
Breakfast ending at 9 am is much too early. I have cruised on Norwegian numerous times a while ago, but unfortunately I since have got a spine injury and my mobility is extremely limited so I now go cruising with you two gentlemen which I enjoy, even back when i could walk more than 10 steps Norwegian were known for their excellent food. Thank You for letting us virtually go along with you.
Just got off the viva and I loved all your thoughts. Viva is a beautiful ship, layout is odd, and all the upselling is irritating at times. It’s so amazing watching you two! Thank you!
"... it's all the names of the MSC ships, that's all the Italian I know" .... OMG, that got a serious laugh out of me!! After "bellisima" and "magnifica" , I was like, wait a minute .... and then you actually admit it! Bravisimo!😆
I just got off the Viva a week ago....I would rank it with a 5/6. I agree with the size problem wholeheartedly. The Syd Norman's performers are great, but I only tried to go to the Pour House once, the crowd was to the doors. You had to be there almost an hour before the show to get a seat. Cabins were good, I spent one cruise in the Studios and one in a balcony. Studio Lounge had multiple technical issues with all drink machines. Balcony was great. I agree to a point with ye guys on the food...the Buffet was the exception. The food in the Buffet wasn't good. It was the same food all day, everyday (lunch and supper). Nothing is cooked fresh, even the burgers and hotdogs, all cooked and then put on hot plates so the temperature isn't great. We usually always go for the buffet, but this was the exception...we ended up going to The Local, Indulge and Hudson's. All were fantastic in comparison, except the temperature in Hudson's is very cold, so you need to dress accordingly and the music in Indulge is far too loud, couldn't even hear yourself think. Entertainment I agree with you as well. Icons was fantastic, I wish they did multiple sets, so that it was more than one show. Beetlejuice not good, people even walked out, Ocean Fest was okay, but the singers from Icons and Syd Norman's were better. A couple of the guest Entertainment was good, but most of them were meh. I ended up watching just about all the free movies on my TV because the Entertainment wasn't for me and I don't drink so the bars did nothing for me either. Finally, while the Observation Lounge was beautiful, it was not the quiet library as in the past. In fact, it could be very loud there and there's not a book to be found onboard 😢. The one thing I can say was great onboard was the crew. Will I use NCL again, absolutely...will I sail on the Viva/ Prima again...no.
So, eat a good breakfast on the ship, have a quick gander at Cannes then a late lunch back on board. Last went to Cannes on a two week student exchange when I was 14 !! 30+ years ago yikes … the ship looks lovely… not so much the haven though more of a balcony gal 😮
Pro-tip for taking photos where you want the subject to line up with something: The camera operator moves the camera. That way you get instant feedback to your adjustments and can line up the shot perfectly!
Lovely to see you in the Med. You 2 need a TV show. Breakfast stopping at 9 is ludicrous. Having no space for entertainment doesn't worry me as I don't like it anyway I prefer quiet. But no - this is not the ship for me - the racetrack, the balconies looking down on others, the children, and the lack of service n the Haven, all put me off. Thank you for your review.
We do not cruise NCL but prefer Princess and Celebrity. I appreciate your honest review and we will stick to what we know and love! And will keep watching your videos! Thanks!!
The best things about Prima/Viva is the outdoor spaces and great quality varied included food. What ships provide similar quality in these areas but without the let down on other areas
Start speaking a new language in 3 weeks with Babbel 🎉. Get up to 60% OFF your subscription ▶️ HERE: go.babbel.com/t?bsc=1200m60-youtube-cruisewithbenanddavid-oct-2023&btp=default&TH-cam&Influencer..cruisewithbenanddavid..USA..TH-cam
Many film deals are done on those yachts.
The NCL Epic, is the strangest ship I've been on in 38 cruises!
FYI Guys: NCL is NOT being nice to crew, as it took most of their Deck Privilege's away!
😊😊😊😊😊😊
So what was your overall opinion of the ship as a whole? You rated each area but would be interested to know your overall view…… Thanks…
Breakfast ending at 9am is wild! That alone would take a star off the rating from me.
If you are eating at 10am you essentially are in brunch almost lunch time at that point.
Want it after that? Talk with your butler to have it delivered.
I can't imagine eating at like 10am or 11am breakfast then having lunch at 12/1 pm.
...some people like to start their day early and get off the ship ... others should take note ...
are their 24/7/365 food outlets?
Should start at 9am 😮 😂❤
@@willgaukler8979yes they have a 24 hr food area
I believe they said restaurant, buffet probably available until later?
Breakfast rush usually doesn’t even start until 8am unless going on an excursion. Ending at 9am is a sign of cost cutting. ✂️ They know when the rush is but ending early, they're being cheeky.
... what you wanna pay extra for late breakfast ? or increased fares ?... shhhhh ... adapt
@@willgaukler8979
What you on about? 9am is an early finish for breakfast. Shhhhh! Get real your on holiday and time to relax. I've never been on a cruise that finished breakfast at 9am.
Hi Ben and David. Been looking forward to this video. I agree with the breakfast hours being to short. They should stay open until at least 10am. I'm sorry you didn't have the best Haven experience. It should exceed any expectations especially paying the price for it. As always, love watching your videos and giving your honest opinion. Thank you for all your hard work ❤❤
@@willgaukler8979 I'd rather it be included, but if I had to I'd pay higher fares for later breakfast.
@@maryanncapece2623 I agree whole heartedly with what you said! to say Ben and David paid for 1st class (butler ,exclusive areas ect) the Haven to me looks all glitz and glamour and status (great sevice from staff ect) but when you look a little deeper its realy not that great as in , menus not changing for the whole cruise but they do in the normal restauants on board, breakfast finishing at 9am ( every cruise i have been on its usualy 9 30 or 10 am)...alothough its usualy just me that goes for breakfast my partner stays in bed till around 11 am (im usualy up at 6 am and up and about as im on holiday) ! I suppose when your booking on Viva or Prima you would have to look at what your getting for the cabin/state room your wanting to book ( be it the Haven, a suite, club balcony suite, balcony,ocean view, inside or a studio) and weigh up the pros and cons of what you actualy get for your hard earned cash with each of those options! ...seems to me they limit some of the eating options in the haven (as in NOT changing the menu) so that you will eat and use some of the other restarants onboard (OR book some of the specialty dining options) were you get more choice and changing menus ect! i suppose as well they do that (now im just being cynical lol) so that you will mix with other passengers and not just stay up in the haven all the time when onboard ship at meal times lol
Yes, 9am is absolutely too early to end breakfast.
Dinner on the balcony looked wonderful.
We are so happy for both of you.
You two are bloody good at this. Well worth watching.
“I’m sweating like Ronald McDonald in Burger King” 😆😂🤣 Happy Belated Birthday, Ben!
No 9am is absurd. 10:00 am should be close time. Especially what you pay for Haven. Thank you guys for your review. My wife and I are travel agents and appreciate your reviews.
Celebrity's suite dining venue closed really early for breakfast too. So odd
10:30 would be more appropriate and maybe 11 because people are on vacation
Breakfast ends at 9am at budget hotels in the US.. and it's always totally slammed at 8:55 lol. I prefer a later breakfast and a snack instead of lunch!
Who wants a scene out of "FALLING DOWN" when the unemployed, divorced engineer who was stuck in LA traffic on a sweltering hot day w/no A/C, at the end of his rope was 2 minutes too late to order breakfast McDonalds...it wasn't a pretty sight!🥓🥚🍞☕🔫☹
If I’m on vacation and can’t have breakfast after 9 I am going to be very very unhappy.
You'll get over it.
@@rushchairmanhhi nah. I'll complain about it lol
Agree…on vacation if breakfast is over before 11:30 I’ll be cranky!
You guys crack me up! Really love your vlogs for the humor and the honest, balanced reviews. Thank you.
I do not understand some people. In another video, they mentioned being insulted by a passenger who blurted out "Not those bloggers again" (or words to that effect) which prompted some commenters to agree, that filming for commercial purposes shouldn't be permitted and I'm thinking to myself, "Who decides which people get to film anything in public and what about all the people who're walking around filming everything on their phones?"
There's no such thing as banning people from filming in public, no matter what purpose they're filming it for. It's no one else's damn business so stay home people, if you don't want to be seen in public. Simple!
I don't think that 9am for breakfast is early in general, but when they're putting on entertainment until 1 or 2 in the morning, it definitely is!! I'd say 10 is more reasonable on a cruise at least.
No it closes at nine
@@daylehudson6810Right, yes it closes at 9am but that’s not reasonable for people on holiday.
9am is definitely early for breakfast to finish,on previous cruises that’s the time I sometimes woke up 😂
9am is seating time not actual end. It's a formal sitdown resturant so your 9am breakfast is going until 10-1030
David was in rare form with his zingers and I laughed out loud several times. As usual you did a good job of your ship review. I think that inaugural voyages are usually problematic and somewhat subpar. I always wait a year or two before trying a new ship and find the price has gone down, the service is superb, the shows and performers are in sync with each other and the ship is still as beautiful as day one. She still seem like a fabulous ship and those destinations are on my wish list. Thanks guys for taking us along...I'll be on this voyage in a couple years.
“Throw an egg at me and call me an Easter Bunny,” Hilarious!! ❤😂
Ok so I got back from our Prima Haven trip. You guys I swear… that was one of the best vacations we ever had. We had a massive balcony with hot tub and multiple seating. The view from the aft was stunning! Service was A+ and food was outstanding. Considering what other cruises charge I say our Haven experience was well worth it!
Ben simply cannot say fravorite enough times for me..warms my heart!
You both always give such fun, honest reviews! The outside areas are way too small! Happy Birthday Ben!
I must say that breakfast for me is between 10 and 11 lol. Or even later. So with it ending at 9am, is way too short. Thanks so much for all these videos guys. Love watching you!!
The evolution of cruising and cruise ships has changed a lot since the 1980s. I think most people would've been bored with cruising even in the early 2000s, when the purpose of cruising was just that: to CRUISE, slow down, chill out, reignite relationships with plenty of loving. Dressing up and looking good was a big factor, and eating really good food. Nowadays the energy on most commercial cruise ships especially of those with families, is just too frenetic to achieve the level of chill/nirvana of CRUISING that I know from decades ago. Excellent food and beautiful dining locations, plus comfortable beds in tranquil canins, will remain my top priority. Thanks for your review.
You’re not wrong though I do find the sheer escapism quite liberating and chill. You can relax and dress up and have the classic experience but there’s also the high pace adventure
Virgin Voyages ticks off all of those boxes: chill out, slow if you like, excellent food, hammocks, and no kids!!
@@gormanw Cunard too!
Heck yeah GET YO FREAK ON all day all night on the cruise ship! Hawt
I know that there was a lot of negative things on this ship but I must say it still looks wonderful to me . The food aspect is a huge factor for us and just having a lot of outdoor seating . It’s a shame you paid so much money and it wasn’t worth the price but hope you still had a wonderful birthday 🥳 cruise . Great video as always guys .
It's a fair review though. Wonderful looking, modern, luxurious ship but way too small venues. I'm hoping to try out Viva in 2025 (fully cruised up until then) and am sure it will be fantastic.
The outdoor seating is nice unless the weather is not nice enough to sit outdoors in which case you're kind of screwed because there's not much to do otherwise, the venues are too small if the weather is bad.
We’d have no chance of making it to breakfast if it finished at 9am! We like to have a lie in and relax on holiday 😅
Ben, you crack me up when you spoke Italian...MSC ship names. 😂 Thanks for the laugh and the great video! Hi David. 👋
😮😊
I absolutely love your channel!! It’s without a doubt the best cruising channel there is!! The humor you add to your videos always makes me smile. You’re the perfect example of a lovely marriage❤ THANK YOU for all you do.
Happiest of birthdays Ben! Loved the always honest and through review
I haven’t been able to see you gents for awhile and coming back to this has made my day. I laughed so hard! One of your best yet. Thank you, and happy belated birthday, Ben!
I've honestly never rushed to a new Ben and David video so fast... I'm normally never this early 😂
Great reviews, Ben and David, and I agree with you on so many points. We were on Prima in August in Northern Europe. It's a beautiful ship overall and our balcony cabin and bathroom were lovely and spacious. No complaints about the cabin. We felt like MDR food was excellent and buffet food was mostly tasty. Service was excellent. We avoided the nickel-and-diming. Sadly, some great venues like Sid's Pour House are too small, like you reported about the Viva. Many lovely spaces, such as Hudson's MDR. But true, like you stated about Viva, there are areas that are choppy and set up in odd ways. We did NOT like having to pass the "HAVEN ONLY" elevators as we left our aft cabin and had to walk to the next set of elevators. It creates clear "classism" and we just disagreed with that set up. The program was VERY full and offered so much for everyone. Saw "Donna Summer" and it was okay. We are seniors but not on our last leg so we don't use go carts and water slides. Feel like so much space devoted to those items that we don't use. Due to being in Northern Europe, had lots of misty and rainy days keeping the outdoor areas wet. Some days they were completely closed down due to rough seas. We think the Prima should be in warmer climates so all her outside spaces and be maximized.
You two just make me smile and I love the detail in your videos! Looks like a great time ☺️
I have to admit I find all that rather conflicting. I am in love with the ship looks and style, but I think I'd agree with your assessments about certain venues being too small. That's something I noticed about the Norwegian Getaway on our last cruise. Some areas of the ship were empty while others - like Sid Norman's - you couldn't get into unless you showed up hours early. (Something I'm not very good at on vacation.)
I really appreciate the brutal review. You two are so positive about everything I take extra notice if you find something lacking.
So thank you and keep them coming!
By the way, my husband and I just love watching you two take cruises together. You're just so sweet and wholesome together. We have never taken a cruise but my oldest son and his wife went on a Disney cruise with their daughter and his mother in law. So we are thinking about taking one for an anniversary. Our 25th is coming up soon.
"No, no, put your leg down, nobody wants to see your leaning tower..." was not a joke I expected, and made me burst out laughing.
We've just come off 11 nights onboard the Getaway and have the same problems with that ship. The venues while great are far too small for the amount of passengers and difficult to get in. Lots of things we wanted to see but just couldn't get in. People were queueing for places like Syd Norman's and Illusionarium an hour and a half before they opened. Loads of entertainment took place in the Atrium which was far too small an area. Half the pool deck taken up by the slides.
This came up as a recommendation I wasn’t even looking for cruise videos. I just stuck it on but you two are so likeable so I’m now a subscriber ❤xx
9am is like noon when I'm on vacation... SUNRISE watching the ocean sail by.
Early breakfast ending is such a bummer. Vacation is time to sleep in your rest up
You cant pay all of that money, with all of that entertainment and facilities onboard to sleep and rest! That what "home" is for! ;-)
We’ve been on both Holland America and Carnival cruises where breakfast in the MDR ends at 9 am and by 10 at the buffet, which took adjusting to. It might, indeed, be a cost cutting measure
I don't think it is cost cutting, i believe they can't get enough staff.
We did room service on most days for breakfast on the Noordam on an Alaskan cruise. I believe HAL is one of the last ones not to charge for room service.
We just got done with our first cruise ever! It was on the NCL Sun. We are older, so we purposefully chose a smaller ship. There was really only one show that we were interested in seeing, and it was different rock songs from the 60s to 90s or so. The dancers were amazing. They really brought the energy. They had the whole place tapping feet and singing. I loved NCL. Their staff was amazing. We had a balcony and went to Alaska. Would have liked to see more of that dance team.
“Throw an egg at me and call me the Easter Bunny.”
My god, I could not guess what he was saying before “Easter Bunny.” Thank you!
You two put on the BEST reviews. Wife and I love it! Thanks! The work you do is legit.
9am to end breakfast is crazy. When I was working on ships on a seaday I liked to catch the last breakfast buffet that was open until 11:30
We were on the Prima in July on a Northern Europe tour. I wished we could have used those outside space but, since it was the North Sea it was cold. So everyone was inside which made those venues small. I also refused to stand in line to get into a 100 seat music venue. I loved the itinerary but the ship was not suited to the cold in that no outside areas were usable.
I do intermittent fasting and don’t eat breakfast before 10 am. I have done this for two years. Before that I ate breakfast between 6 and 7 am when I wake up. I am not being lazy, just healthier for me!
David does that when he is at home. :-)
@@Cruisewith I travel a lot but taking my first cruise this December and it is 34 days long. Since I travel so much, I like to stay consistent with it!
Love your honest review. We took the prima in may, hated the small venues, tiny buffet, lack of seating in buffet and indulge area, no maps, no guidance as to where to go. Only 1 large room, only 1 show. That was my 6th ncl cruise. JUst finished jade in athens, escape to canada, loved the escape
Always appreciate the honesty. There's tons of TH-camrs who are not honest with their ship reviews.... Guess they are trying to earn favor with the cruise lines. I like they ya'll are just honest.
It looks like a nice ship, I do like the cabins, but I would not be tempted to travel on it. It is just too big for me. I would prefer a smaller ship, much smaller. Thank you for the video! (I think the reason they moved the statues was because time was causing them significant damage and they needed the protection of a museum.)
Happy Birthday Ben🎈. Thank you for your reviews guys. I love hearing your opinions. I never never think your being negative. I love your honesty. Love to you both.
I like to sleep in on my cruise too unless I have an early morning excursion, cause I NEVER get to sleep in.
Just back from a viva cruise in September, we love NCL but this class of ship needs to find its Mojo and who it is trying to appeal to in our opinion. Our balcony suite was really lovely, spacious, light and great sized shower. The Dining venues were great, varied, beautifully styled and the food was fantastic as usual, and we got our free at sea package as usual, which includes 2 speciality dining bookings each, premium drinks package up to $15 per drink which covers 99% of drinks, $50 dollars off one passengers tour each day, plus basic Wi-Fi for 1 guest. Outdoor space was wonderful but very busy on sea days and it’s the first time I’ve seen some many people booking sun beds early morning then leaving them empty for half the day, so selfish despite signs up saying items will be removed if left alone after 15mins, staff do not enforce this. Agree re venues - too small, and the atrium is lovely but odd design, totally agree with you! The racetrack takes up far too much space! Silly addition, I never saw anyone going in to laser tag either. We ended up staying on the ship on some port days(visited before) and it was fab, felt we had the ship and the infinity pool to ourselves and a respite from very noisy groups who have total disregard for other people. The observation lounge on 17 was our favourite for after dinner drinks,. The crew were fantastic as usual, glad we didn’t book haven this time (too expensive) it really didn’t look up to par compared to the haven we stayed in on on the Bliss last year.Thank you for a great video and review as usual, love you guys! 🥰🏴🇬🇧
ps happy birthday Ben, my birthday was on board too, wee bit older than you pair 😂 nice wee cake delivered to our table at the le bistro (fabulous food) and the decor felt like something out of the set of beauty and the beast, those chandeliers! Unfortunately we couldn’t get a booking for idols when we got onboard, just playing one night, we tried before we came on board but the British site was saying not available till October! we asked to if we wanted to stand at the back which might be available! and Beetlejuice wasn’t to our taste and got slated from people we chatted to afterwards but that’s just a sample so might be fine. Loved the jersey boys and Pricilla etc which we had seen previously on NCL, yip looks like they are cutting corners. Oops sorry I normally just write a line or two! Ps again we got room service breakfast occasionally and it was served later than 9am - odd for the Haven not to do the same.
Totally agree….we were very disappointed with the venues on the Prima……way too small…..and why allow that racetrack so much room? Not many people using the track ( maybe because of the cost?). The food was fabulous and the cabins are lovely. Let’s hope that NCL will learn from their mistakes!
I brought my sons 17 & 26 on the Prima. After not cruising for over 20 years, I must say it was very different. I loved it though. Every ship has it's pros and cons. Next is MSC. Keep up the great videos. I learn so much and love your banter. Thank you from Connecticut.
I just love you guys and enjoy your description of the cruises, food and all your experiences. You are both true foodies…me too.
I have zero interest in ever cruising yet I’ve been watching y’all’s videos all day. So entertaining and Charismatic :D
😂😂😂only went on one checked off my list ..I've been binge watching too...❤❤
I went to Antibes when we tendered in Cannes. It was lovely and there was a small Picasso museum.
I agree about breakfast time, recently on our cruise we missed breakfast as well because it ended too early. Loved what you had for breakfast so that might encourage me to get up earlier for sure.
We are on the ship in Messina right now and we agree with all the negatives. The pools are ridiculously small.
I have just arrived in KL (late in the night) - & whilst I am pottering about (fiddling with unpacking bits) = such a joy to have you 2 lovely fellows to ‘keep me company’!🎖🎖🎖😎😎😎 Glad Ben had a very happy Birthday!🥂🥂🥂🍾🍾🍾
Breakfast closes @9am? Whew child who wants to wake up that early on vacation? Guess I’m going for brunch!
When you said, “throw an egg at me and call me the Easter bunny” I subscribed immediately! Love watching you two! Thank you for your amazing videos!🥰
totally agree with the grade of 4 out of 10! The venues are so small!! The seats in the theatre are so uncomfortable. Bathrooms are the best of any ship.
My first cruise was on the Norwegian eons ago and it was awesome. Glad to see the food is still up to par. Love your videos. You are my new guilty pleasure. ❤🛳️🛟⚓️🚢❤
9:00am closer on a Cruise Ship is absolutely RIDICULOUS! 😱10:00/10:30 closing would be far more except able! We’re on vacation after all and quite expensive at that!
Closing for breakfast at 9am is silly.
I've been on more than a few cruises. 9 am is ridiculous! Heck, when I'm on vacation I don't want to even smell coffee untill 10 to 10:30. Lol
9:00am is a bit early for end of breakfast service...9:30 would be a good compromise perhaps in a reduced choice mode...continental....3hrs for rollover lunch prep isn't that long guys...
It’s only the Haven breakfast service that closes at 9 am.
I just love watching you both, such a crack up, you compliment each other 😂🤣😭 Cheers guys👍❤️
David’s sense of humour is just ACE. Loving the channel gents
I think ending breakfast at 9 am is ridiculous.
I’m so pleased the food was good for you as our trip on the Breakaway to the Mediterranean this past spring was AWFUL in all the restaurants including the specialty restaurants.
I spent my summers in Cannes growing up and it was wonderful to visit it after many years. But, yes, it is expensive!
We found the same problem with the size of the venues on the Breakaway and were never able to get into Sid Normans, or any of the other venues.
It was such a bad trip that we were given a FCC. We are going on the Epic next year so I hope NCL redeems itself.
I think we only had two shows too that were repeated throughout the 16 DAY cruise to accommodate all the guests because the theatre was so SMALL!
Hope you had a great birthday!
Thanks for your HONEST review…. We need both positive AND negative review’s, we all know this so your viewpoint, your opinion and not everyone needs to agree,
Keep up the good work.
Nice video. Thanks for your review. The outdoor seating with all the lounges and sofas looks really nice. That atrium looks beautiful but I could see what you mean. I appreciate your reviews.
Outstanding! Never heard of you guys before, this came up on my recommended. Ended up watching the whole thing, which I almost never do.
Happy birthday Ben! David you can surprise me with a suite too! I appreciate this video and answers my question of this new NCL ship. I did like everything on NCL Encore to Alaska from last October 2022
agree about breakfast time. I can imagine if you're going on-shore that you need to eat early, but not if you're not for whatever reason.
Great video boys. The food looks amazing - the decor lovely but yeah, the public space - what's that about! Glad it appear that they have learnt and are making the next ships bigger.
HAPPY (belated) BDAY, Ben!!! Oh my--we're going on Prima for *14 days* in early December (couldn't resist the deal) and I'm worried it will be a horrible, frustrating 2 weeks. Guess I should've waited to see the broader verdict on this class of ship from those I trust. Oh well, at least it will be warm in the Caribbean! Love and trust your channel, even if the news is bad for me. :(
last temp I saw for SXM was 87* and sunny ... so yeah it's nice down their ...
Great to hear this honest review, I hope NCL takes note of all this feedback as they construct their 3rd Prima class for 2025. The pool area and venues really look too small!
The go-kart track imo is too big for this size of ship and takes away a lot of deck space from larger pools, for example (as well as being noisy). I think the go-kart track would fit better with their 5th and 6th Prima Class ships which are expected to be 20% bigger.
Also hope NCL keeps their MDRs open later for breakfast! We ended up eating in the buffet most days since the MDR closed for seating at 9, and the buffet was open later.
Doubtful, we went on Encore which is the previous generation of ship and that was the same. Small venues and it had only 1 pool on the top deck. Why they insist on filling the top deck with that massive go-kart track (and on Encore the rear completely taken with a permanent laser quest) I have no idea.
These are "nice" things but unfortunately, they're also quite tame and hold very little "replay" value in my opinion. So you do it once and you don't feel like you need to ever do it again.
The galaxy pavilion is also much the same and very quickly these venues go the way of all "tech": they get old. quick. And often highlight just how "not ready" this kind of VR is for the masses to use with rides often being out of action for long periods because of broken hardware or weird software niggles.
They are still including all this stuff in their latest ships and I really think they need to think again. Just got off Anthem and that was way way better. It's not a very pretty ship, but you can't knock it's function. There is a lot cleverly packed in on that ship.
I think I preferred the DIY Selfie Rome tour you both did last week than this selfie shore excursion . Love watching you guys
There should be an area that offers breakfast anytime. We stay up very late and it’s our first cruise next month and it is a blue cruise and there is music drinking and partying. Going on till very very late at night. I’m sure we won’t be joining the crowd. Hoping there’s someplace where we can get a maid to order omelette or something. Otherwise, I guess we’ll be eating the buffet for lunch lol.
In the early days - 1980s - Norwegian was known for their broadway shows and that was on 600 passenger ships. Our first cruise was on the MS Starward in 1982 and there was a full broadway show. It’s disappointing to se that they’re cutting back on them as we really enjoy musical theater.
That was back when they contracted exclusively with the Jean Ann Ryan Company for entertainment/entertainers. And yes, NCL was then known as the best entertainment at sea.
Another excellent review! Love the humor!
I’ve rewatched this video 3 times and found it so informative each time
I love you guys. Im a big NCL fan for most of your reasons. There FOOD is outstanding and Ive been on the Breakaway twice and the Jade Food delivery and speciality dining superb I tend to avoid ships during children travel time I prefer traveling when I know children are in school. Since Ive done Haven twice based on your assessment I would not do it on Prima or Viva I think the older ships provide a better experience.
Just got off an 8 night cruise on the Viva. Absolutely loved the ship and fell back in love with cruising again after a couple of pandemic nightmares.
It seems like it has the same problem as other NCL ships I've been on. So much real estate is taken up by paid activities and limited access areas that everything else it cramped. The lounges on the Encore were over capacity on a cruise that was only 65% full, and 2/3rds of the top deck you had to pay to use. Really disappointing for new cruise ships who run the standard iteneraries.
We found the main buffet restaurant on NCL Jade really busy. We complained as we could not find a table on which to eat our food. Absolutely disgusting for a luxury cruise company 🫢
@@PortsladeBySea Hi... You can take your food to La Cucina to eat (for breakfast and lunch). And NCL is not a luxury cruise company if you check their classification. The Haven is luxury but overall they are just a mass-market cruise line.
Once again another great vlog you 2 are brilliant and have me in fits of laughter with your sayings. You should have your own tv program then everyone gets to see how brilliant you ar 👏
Breakfast ending at 9 am is much too early. I have cruised on Norwegian numerous times a while ago, but unfortunately I since have got a spine injury and my mobility is extremely limited so I now go cruising with you two gentlemen which I enjoy, even back when i could walk more than 10 steps Norwegian were known for their excellent food. Thank You for letting us virtually go along with you.
Great food , staff, and ports. They almost have it right. Get rid of loud go carts and make the top deck a spa with hot tubs.😎 Happy Birthday 🎂
just rewatched this cos of your excitement around the birthday!! WELL DONE DAVID!!!!!! Fab sharing your excitement Ben!
Breakfast closing at 9:00 A.M. is the suite accessible only The Haven. Many other restaurants on the ship open later. Not cost cutting just policy.
Just got off the viva and I loved all your thoughts. Viva is a beautiful ship, layout is odd, and all the upselling is irritating at times. It’s so amazing watching you two! Thank you!
"... it's all the names of the MSC ships, that's all the Italian I know" .... OMG, that got a serious laugh out of me!! After "bellisima" and "magnifica" , I was like, wait a minute .... and then you actually admit it! Bravisimo!😆
I just got off the Viva a week ago....I would rank it with a 5/6. I agree with the size problem wholeheartedly. The Syd Norman's performers are great, but I only tried to go to the Pour House once, the crowd was to the doors. You had to be there almost an hour before the show to get a seat. Cabins were good, I spent one cruise in the Studios and one in a balcony. Studio Lounge had multiple technical issues with all drink machines. Balcony was great. I agree to a point with ye guys on the food...the Buffet was the exception. The food in the Buffet wasn't good. It was the same food all day, everyday (lunch and supper). Nothing is cooked fresh, even the burgers and hotdogs, all cooked and then put on hot plates so the temperature isn't great. We usually always go for the buffet, but this was the exception...we ended up going to The Local, Indulge and Hudson's. All were fantastic in comparison, except the temperature in Hudson's is very cold, so you need to dress accordingly and the music in Indulge is far too loud, couldn't even hear yourself think. Entertainment I agree with you as well. Icons was fantastic, I wish they did multiple sets, so that it was more than one show. Beetlejuice not good, people even walked out, Ocean Fest was okay, but the singers from Icons and Syd Norman's were better. A couple of the guest Entertainment was good, but most of them were meh. I ended up watching just about all the free movies on my TV because the Entertainment wasn't for me and I don't drink so the bars did nothing for me either. Finally, while the Observation Lounge was beautiful, it was not the quiet library as in the past. In fact, it could be very loud there and there's not a book to be found onboard 😢. The one thing I can say was great onboard was the crew. Will I use NCL again, absolutely...will I sail on the Viva/ Prima again...no.
So, eat a good breakfast on the ship, have a quick gander at Cannes then a late lunch back on board. Last went to Cannes on a two week student exchange when I was 14 !! 30+ years ago yikes … the ship looks lovely… not so much the haven though more of a balcony gal 😮
I love all your videos. They are great! Thank you for the review. The food looked great!
Pro-tip for taking photos where you want the subject to line up with something: The camera operator moves the camera.
That way you get instant feedback to your adjustments and can line up the shot perfectly!
Lovely to see you in the Med. You 2 need a TV show.
Breakfast stopping at 9 is ludicrous.
Having no space for entertainment doesn't worry me as I don't like it anyway I prefer quiet.
But no - this is not the ship for me - the racetrack, the balconies looking down on others, the children, and the lack of service n the Haven, all put me off.
Thank you for your review.
We do not cruise NCL but prefer Princess and Celebrity. I appreciate your honest review and we will stick to what we know and love! And will keep watching your videos! Thanks!!
Nobody cares
Well I’m on her out of San Juan in January, so I appreciate knowing what to expect. I’m expecting to have an amazing time!
I wanted to see you party in Ibiza! Gosh the food looked so good and the outdoor eating area too. I would be irritated by the car track though.
I think we are past our partying days 😊
The best things about Prima/Viva is the outdoor spaces and great quality varied included food.
What ships provide similar quality in these areas but without the let down on other areas