The Secrets of a Hungry Woman and a Man's Cruise Experience
As a married man, my personal experience on a cruise ship is a treasure trove of unique observations. One notable aspect has been the presence of a 'hungry' demographic among cruise passengers. Many of these women are married yet they seem eager to make their feelings known. It’s an interesting dynamic that often becomes evident during such journeys.
My First Cruise Experience
I had the opportunity to go on a single cruise from Southampton, England, to west side Manhattan, NY, aboard the QE2, the fastest cruise ship in the 90s. Back then, at such a young age, I was often mistaken for a crew member by passengers. It was both amusing and eye-opening.
This experience, after 20 years, was invaluable for my role as a cruise ship crew member. Typically, crew members don't gain passenger experience, which makes it challenging for them to understand what passengers want and need. However, my firsthand experience was extremely helpful.
Third Formal Dinner: The Caviar and Lobster Night
The third formal dinner, known as the caviar and lobster night, was a memorable evening. I was fortunate to share this experience with both passengers and crew friends. It was an evening filled with delightful conversations and experiences.
Looking Back: Discovery and Advice
This cruise is special because it is a combo cruise/music festival, spanning four days. Despite the previous Fyre Fest debacle, which made us cautious, everything seems to be on track for the cruise, which is set in three weeks. It’s important to note that the Norwegian Pearl had to cancel one of their cruises due to engine trouble, which is now resolved.
To help navigate the journey, we relied heavily on a Facebook group set up by attendies to share advice and insights. Since we are budget-conscious, we opted for an interior cabin, which has no view. I made the choice to go with a mid-ship cabin because modern cruise ships have stabilizers that eliminate side-to-side rolling, but front-to-back movement can still affect sensitive individuals.
Alcohol and Drinks: A Budget Consideration
It’s crucial to check for free water and ice before booking. You'll often have to buy drink packages on top of that, and American-owned ships can be pricey for alcohol, especially if you plan on drinking heavily. We projected to consume about 8 pints of beer per day each, which, on an American-owned ship, was only worthwhile if you planned to drink excessively.
For purchasing drinks directly in the bars, prices can be comparable to London pub prices for beer (around 1 pound per pint), decent restaurant prices for wine, and quite pricey for spirits. It’s important to budget accordingly unless you fall into the extreme drinking category.
Excursions and Research
Excursions can be a great way to explore ports, especially if the city is far from the port. It’s advisable to do some research to ensure you make the most of your time. For me, as a sailor, I am eagerly looking forward to the journey and the experience of big ships.
Final Thoughts
Name your experience on a unique cruise, and learn from a fresh perspective. There’s so much to discover and enjoy! Whether it's the lively conversations, the delicious food, or the scenic views, each cruise offers a new adventure. So, if you're planning a cruise, remember to be cautious and do your research, especially if you're attending a combo cruise/music festival.