FManke

I am also a first time cruiser, so I can totally relate to your excitement! This will be a 27th anniversary present for my wife and I in Oct. I'm busting at the seams, as it is a surprise, and I haven't told her yet, so I have to keep it all inside! I'll be excited to hear about your experience and gain any first time tips you might have. Happy cruising!

Eventhough this will be our first cruise, I figured what the heck and went all in, by signing up for the Crown and Anchor Society. Are there any benefits to receive on our first cruise or do they start on following cruises? I've also read that sometimes, first time cruisers are invited to the Captain's Table for dinner. Long shot of course, but has that ever happened to anybody you know? Just curious.

Ok, thanks. I was just hoping. I guess I'll have to save that sweet tooth for a port. I think I should be able to find something between Halifax, St. John's, Portland or Bar Harbor. Always looking for some fresh made candy!

Anywhere to get candy, like truffles, fudge, and the like included in your complimentary dining? If not free, anywhere on board to purchase candy? Not out of a box though. Thanks

I've also opted to try Izumi on this our first ever cruise. I love sushi and could easily make a meal of it. Although my wife likes sushi, will only have a piece or two and is satisfied. Nice to see a variety including salads and "hot rock" options. I think this would be a good choice for those who aren't sure if they like sushi to add a roll or two along with other menu items. I've decided that I'm going to try something different at each meal that I've never tried before. At least in most of the restaurants on board, if you don't like it, just get something else. Explore and enjoy!

Being a first time cruiser myself, I chose the dining and drink packages for the same reason as DocLC. Having everything pre-paid and "included" seems to be a good way to just sit back and relax, without having to be worried about the costs.

Has anybody taken the galley tour, with brunch on Serenade of the Seas? You can choose it as one of the selections in the specialty dining package, and was curious if it was worth it. Thanks

After reading many different threads, about food on board, I have a couple of questions. Is food available "to go" from most food outlets and is there anywhere on board that is considered "off limits" to eat? Does anybody have a "secret" place they like to eat?

From what I've read you should dress as you like and not worry about what others might think. Easier said for me. Not so much for my wife!

Premium coffee and teas are included. From what I've read Starbucks is not, but as we are on Serenade, without a Starbucks, that is not an issue.

Sorry for the confusion. I was speaking of a premium coffee. I think the example, you gave about the beer and coffee is what I was asking about. I'm not looking at a way to "cheat" the system. Just looking to understand the fine print, if any.

We're looking at taking a couple of excursions on our cruise this Oct. Halifax, NS or St. Johns, NB? Portland, ME or Bar Harbour, ME? Suggestion, please? Thanks

I've purchased the Royal Replenishment package for our upcoming cruise, and I have a quick question. I drink a lot of beverages. This is the main reason I purchased the plan and can see myself getting a premium beverage on the way to dinner, and then getting more to drink once I get there. Is it truly unlimited with no restrictions as long as you only receive one beverage at a time? They don't keep track of the number of drinks or time between drinks?

I guess the good thing about a cruise is that if you don't like something, you can always get something else! Also if I understand correctly, if you really like something, you can always get another! Thanks

Everbody seems to have an opinion about what foods or restaurants on board any RCCL ship, are must haves. Being a first time cruiser, and with so many options. I would like to know, what are the foods or restaurants to skip? Thanks! Serenade of the Seas-New England and Canada-Oct 2017