Friday, November 20, 2009

Did you watch Good Morning America today, which featured the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas? It looks, indeed, to be an incredible ship, and we look forward to our personal inspection cruises November 22-24 and again December 5-12. It will likely take that much time just to see all there is to see! So ends any arguments about not wanting to cruise due to possible "boredom." There will definitely be something for everyone on this ship.

Having said that, Oasis will not be the ship for "everyone." Ben and I have grown very fond of river crusing, not only for the ability to travel inland without packing/repacking, but also because of the smaller numbers onboard: about 120 passengers versus the 6000+ capacity on the Oasis. But that's the beauty of cruising and finding the right match for your personal tastes. What are your preferences?

There has been a lot of buzz in the industry and cruise community about the high price points on the Oasis. True, even an inside cabin right now can cost over $1000 per person. In my opinion, Royal Caribbean is testing the market and probably justifying the decision based on two factors. First, much more is included in the price on the Oasis. Secondly, Oasis has no competition. RCI will charge what the market will bear. Who knows where prices will settle, but all the favorable press doesn't hurt. Disney enjoys the same situation: nobody does Disney but Disney, so the line can command (and get) higher prices.

In between the two Oasis sailings, we've arranged for an inspection cruise of the Ruby Princess, which made her debut late last year. We've not sailed on this class Princess ship and look forward to the experience.

So, bags are almost packed and we're gradually wrapping up business here in the office. Stay tuned over the next few weeks for blogs and photos from our upcoming cruises.

By the way, did you see the video of the Oasis sailing under the Great Belt Bridge in Denmark?

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