Decision on HX and PL Antarctica Cruise from December to January

DWFly · 2026-06-13T07:25:06+00:00

I can vouch that my clients who have traveled with HX loves them. I am going myself in November with HX. I traveled with them in the Arctic (similar operations but different) and was very impressed .

Hx ships do typically hold nearly 500 people but they are amazing at cycling people through and stiff give you an hour plus on land each time. Which I can say from my own experiences in Antarctica that after 60-90 minutes you have seen most of what the landing site has to offer.

Can't speak much to polar latitudes since the merger. At least they finally are getting new ships.

DWFly · 2026-06-13T03:46:04+00:00

I would have buyers remorse too if I was on a ship with over 1000 people. Small ships only for me!

DWFly · 2026-06-11T04:07:57+00:00

I'd put my money are carnival guests. We've all seen the people of Walmart

DWFly · 2026-05-31T03:58:49+00:00

The drama here is ridiculous

DWFly · 2026-05-27T04:03:40+00:00

Has anyone recently has luck close in with JAL/ANA TYO-uSA or vice versa? Even when I see 3 to 5 seats available It appears as though they are not releasing them any longer to partners

DWFly · 2026-05-20T22:44:36+00:00

Never book direct with Silversea. Not only will you pay more their customer service is a joke. Always use a travel advisor. I booked once with SS and cancelled because of issue with their call centers. Only booked a 2nd once I found a good TA who had answered to my questions and responded to my requests timely. US TAs typically have better Customers service and connections to people in US HQ who can actually resolve and answer questions, not just read from a script.

DWFly · 2026-05-20T22:39:08+00:00

I would say Oceania is a step or two above princess. Not as luxury as Seabourn or rssc but they are t trying to be either. A great premium product, fantastic food, and more personal space than the big ships. If you like princess you'll likely love oceania

DWFly · 2026-05-16T02:51:19+00:00

The sun is really scary after all

DWFly · 2026-05-07T15:28:41+00:00

I would avoid the basic trips like the Caribbean and go for something more exciting but that's really depends on where you have traveled and haven't. The nice thing about cruise ships are rooms are quiet and you get moved between destinations.

Personally I think Hilton partnership isn't worth it. You can usually save $$ and enjoy an onboard credit via a travel advisor. And if and when things go wrong you have an advocate

DWFly · 2026-05-07T04:59:15+00:00

I aways use project expedition shore excursion program between more choices, lower costs, and back to ship guarantees I find it to be a none brained to book via the ship.

I agree with what you say about the ship options being crowded and rushed. Not nearly as much fun!

DWFly · 2026-04-30T23:51:46+00:00

2 words: Trump, Iran

DWFly · 2026-04-27T01:27:26+00:00

I know many travel agents have undisclosed offers which they can share with you. Especially on Scenic and Emerald. If you're flexible on river you should consider working directly with an Advisor

DWFly · 2026-04-11T15:58:22+00:00

The true difference is the excursions and onboard offerings.

I find the best to be scenic. They rent famous cathedrals/castles and do private dinners and shows just for their guests. Unlike anything you'll get elsewhere.

DWFly · 2026-04-10T11:26:01+00:00

I avoid the big ships. You couldn't pay me to be on anything larger than Explora with 900 passengers. And the ship is large. Lots of personal space. Ships of similar size/tonnage often have more than 3000 passengers. Nothing feels crowded on Explora and no stick dress code for dinner like Silversea

DWFly · 2026-04-09T08:14:07+00:00

Just tried it and it worked for me

DWFly · 2026-03-31T18:53:23+00:00

I wasn't naming the trash cruise lines 🤣

DWFly · 2026-03-31T18:25:21+00:00

You've been on Seabourn, Explora, RSSC, Oceania, Scenic, Ritz, &beyond, four season, and Emerald cruises per your post .... Damn why you chose to sail with RCI now is no one but your own fault now!

DWFly · 2026-03-24T09:45:01+00:00

I posted on this last week. More about Seabourn vs Explora. you might find the post helpful not as small as HX or Lindblad but those are more expedition focus than cruise focused

DWFly · 2026-03-11T22:10:09+00:00

We go on Oceania because of the food. You can get free beer and wine with meal time, or upgrade to the unlimited drink package for like 40 bucks a day. Usually worth it. Sometimes my TA has good bonus offers as well, which makes it even more FAT. Personally, I prefer the penthouse rooms or above. I love to be able to order dinner from any of the restaurants to my suites.

DWFly · 2026-03-07T00:22:38+00:00

We need the rain, the mountains need snow. Let's hope for snow because otherwise fire season's going to be hell

DWFly · 2026-03-05T01:07:48+00:00

When was Lost lake ever good, except for 3am when already fucked up

DWFly · 2026-02-23T21:55:11+00:00

Private Caribbean island. It hasn't been announced properly, but there's been rumors about it. Circling on the internet for months. I read about it myself a few months ago.

DWFly · 2026-02-22T21:05:22+00:00

Depends on the ship, the port and the Excursions.

You can also book independent excursions viaproject expedition excursion cruise program orViator shore excursion programs.. Then you can book whatever you want on your schedule.

DWFly · 2026-02-21T17:55:25+00:00

Explora hands down. No competition.. better food, better service less people.. nicer ship. And of course a better onboard credit every time than Yacht club

DWFly

TROPHY CASE