Originally Posted by
Linda VH
You could always move up to Regent. All drinks are included as well as gratuities. I love my cocktails but, unfortunately, DH can't find the paperwork to see just how much he spent on my drinks and our wine so I can't tell whether the upcost is worth it.
I have never been able to justify the cost of a Regent cruise-all inclusive or not.
We cruise on Celebrity about twice a year-usually two weeks, South America or a repo (NEVER to the Caribbean). We always book one of the aft, corner FV rooms (2 rooms with a 250 sq ft balcony).
December, 2006-2 weeks FLL to Valparaiso, Chile. Total on board bill was $1786.00. A few t-shirts, some junk stuff, $100.00 in the casino, $100.00 internet and a couple books-$448.00. The balance of the bill was booze and gratuities.
Split the entire bill between us and our 2 week cruise was not nearly as expensive as the 12 nighter that departs FLL on Jan 4, 2008 on the Mariner. The current Mariner "sale" price is $6095pp + port. I paid just slightly less than $6000.00 for 2 in December, 2006. I can't drink THAT much booze.
To the OP-As a frequent cruiser, move up to Celebrity or HAL, even Princess for a MUCH better experience. And pick a cruise that is not so "port heavy". Sea days are heaven, IMHO, with lots of time to relax and pick and choose what to do. Maybe look into one of the "repo" cruises from Alaska, or from the West Coast through the Panama Canal. I think you will find a cruise that is a much better experience.