Cruise Talk: Sunbird Transatlantic 2002

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Topic: Sunbird Transatlantic 2002

topgun
First Class Passenger
Member # 928

posted 07-07-2001 11:31 AM

We are looking at the Sunbird 12 day Barbados to Mallorca transit next spring.

Can anyone give input in the following areas:

1 Is Sunbird still in good condition. She was good two years ago.

2 What is a transatlatic like during the six days at sea while in transit.

3 Any other input you think might be of help.

I will be interested to see how the price compares with US and UK passengers. The lowest that we are looking at is;
Standard outside cabin
early booking and
TA 5% discount $1999.00 CF
Port taxes 147.00
--------
Total 2146.00

This is in Canadian dollars including gratuities and all air fares, transfers and applicable taxes.

Thanks
Don

[ 07-07-2001: Message edited by: topgun ]

Posts: 759 | From: Burlington ont,canada Cruise center of North America | Registered: Nov 1999 | IP: Logged

sympatico
First Class Passenger
Member # 797

posted 07-07-2001 12:14 PM

Don't know anything about the ship, but the price sure looks good, especially if everything is included.
I have done the crossing from FLL to England (Tillbury) on the Westerdam when they were taking her back for stretch. The crossing was great - took us 13 days, with stops in Bermuda & Lisbon (each 24 hrs) and Horta. We went in October and except for an electrical storm leaving Lisbon the crossing was very smooth. We love sea days so were quite happy with just 3 stops.

Posts: 3305 | From: Toronto, Ont. Canada | Registered: Jul 99 | IP: Logged

Green
First Class Passenger
Member # 171

posted 07-08-2001 04:03 PM

quote:
Originally posted by topgun:
We are looking at the Sunbird 12 day Barbados to Mallorca transit next spring.
Can anyone give input in the following areas:
1 Is Sunbird still in good condition. She was good two years ago.
Have never sailed her - two (single) acquaintances were on board in February - both first time cruisers - they had no complaints about food, cleanliness, service, entertainment etc.
They did say that their outside cabin was small - fortunately they did not need to shower, dress etc. at the same time - that apparently, could be a problem for a couple.
Mentioned having lots of drawer space - closets not so generous.
2 What is a transatlatic like during the six days at sea while in transit.
We're 'love sea days' people and have never been bored or short of things to do. Those 6 days are truly 'do your own thing' days.
3 Any other input you think might be of help.
Oh, they took favourite drinks on board with no problem. Transfers were well handled - they were not impressd by AT.
I've flown with that outfit - sardine can. If at all possible try to book 'wide seats'.
I will be interested to see how the price compares with US and UK passengers. The lowest that we are looking at is;
Standard outside cabin
early booking and
TA 5% discount $1999.00 CF
Port taxes 147.00
--------
Total 2146.00
This is in Canadian dollars including gratuities and all air fares, transfers and applicable taxes.
Thanks
Don
[ 07-07-2001: Message edited by: topgun ]

The price sure looks right - go and have a wonderful trip

Will look forward to seeing some comparison information.

Happy Cruisin'

Posts: 2913 | From: Markham, Ontario, Canada | Registered: Jul 99 | IP: Logged

ocngypz
First Class Passenger
Member # 1555

posted 07-08-2001 05:26 PM

Topgun:

Just converting to USD, the price looks great. That is not to say, some US t/a wouldn't beat the price... but I'd bet air would be higher.

Posts: 343 | From: Newport, RI USA | Registered: Sep 2000 | IP: Logged

topgun
First Class Passenger
Member # 928

posted 07-08-2001 06:42 PM

I heard some time ago that Suntours were selling space on Sunbird in the US. I believe that they used a quick change Boeing 727 out of Alanta. Anyone hear about this?
We and the Brits certainly benefit on the air component by the use of charter aircraft dedicated to transport to the ship only.

PS, about a month ago, I visited a deserted airfield near Niagara Falls. I posted about this on Air Talk. Is anybody in Ontario or Northen New York familiar with any of these deserted airfields?

[ 07-08-2001: Message edited by: topgun ]

Posts: 759 | From: Burlington ont,canada Cruise center of North America | Registered: Nov 1999 | IP: Logged

scorpio
First Class Passenger
Member # 1245

posted 07-09-2001 07:41 AM

Hi Topgun,
We sailed the Atlantic in Sunbird during April 2000, but we opted for the 14 night package, embarking at Aruba, stopping at Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua, Madeira (changed from Tenerife) and arriving at Majorca. The 6 days at sea were an ideal opportunity to relax and enjoy the facilities on board. We had good weather, although a bit windy but definitely not rough. The ship was in good condition, and still is - we spent 2 weeks cruising the Mediterranean in Sunbird at the end of May this year. Regarding price, I believe our 14 night crossing cost about 700 pounds sterling per person, including flights, all port taxes, transfers and tips; booked through a UK travel agent. We usually find that a travel agent can quote better prices than Airtours Direct. The Sunbird usually gets a 4-star rating in reviews, which I believe is accurate. Definitely excellent value. If you need more info., feel free to ask.

Posts: 92 | From: UK | Registered: Apr 2000 | IP: Logged

William
First Class Passenger
Member # 2036

posted 07-09-2001 02:33 PM

Topgun, I'm thinking of going on the same cruise. However, I just contacted Sunquest directly. And the lowest price that I quote me for the same cruise is a superior inside cabin for $1982.70 or a standard outside for $2382.70.

I guess the question is, would it be cheaper if I visit a TA instead of booking thru Sunquest?

Posts: 75 | From: Ottawa, ON | Registered: May 2001 | IP: Logged

topgun
First Class Passenger
Member # 928

posted 07-09-2001 05:09 PM

William, we booked with a travel agent this afternoon.
We are sailing from Aruba in a standard outside.
Price is $2299 less a 10% discount.
Only a travel agent can do this.
You may note that taxes have now increased from $169.00 to $350 as a result of added Canadian Government levies. So What else is new?
Believe the agency I used has offices in Ottawa.

Posts: 759 | From: Burlington ont,canada Cruise center of North America | Registered: Nov 1999 | IP: Logged

William
First Class Passenger
Member # 2036

posted 07-10-2001 12:28 AM

Topgun, thanks for the information. I have dropped by at a Travel Agent this afternoon. He called Sunquest and basically he offered me the same deal that Sunquest offered me over the phone.

I'm not sure whether this will be the appropriate place to post the reply, but can you tell me the name of your travel agent. If not will it be possible if you can email me the info? I can certainly look up their address in the phone book to find out where their office is in Ottawa. Thanks.

Posts: 75 | From: Ottawa, ON | Registered: May 2001 | IP: Logged

topgun
First Class Passenger
Member # 928

posted 07-10-2001 07:19 AM

William, dont have your email.
Try Sun Holidays, they are on the net. They are Ont registered.
Hope Joe will not mind this. I have nothing to do with any agents.
My email is listed, let me know how you get on .

Posts: 759 | From: Burlington ont,canada Cruise center of North America | Registered: Nov 1999 | IP: Logged

William
First Class Passenger
Member # 2036

posted 07-14-2001 08:40 PM

Topgun thanks for the information. I have just made my reservation today. I'll be staying in an superior inside cabin in the upper deck.

Posts: 75 | From: Ottawa, ON | Registered: May 2001 | IP: Logged

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