Would appreciate some advice - deciding between Rhapsody of Conquest for next cruise in Oct 2007. any comments would be appreciated. Have been on Vision of the Seas and Ecstasy and loved both. and..... a specific question on Conquest. - Does the buffet dining area have seating outside by rail like Ecstast does?

I have been on the Conquest but not the Rhapsody. So I really can't say which is better. The conquest is almost twice the tonnage however. So if you are looking for a big ship, that would be the choice. If you like the smaller more personable ships, then go with Rhaposdy. I'm not totally sure I understand your question about having seating outside. The buffet table area is all inside. There is glass all around but you can sit by the window and watch the ocean go by. You can also sit by the pool but even then you still don't have open rail, its enclosed. Not sure I would want to eat out in the wind while cruising... maybe you will enjoy being able to dine/see the ocean and be in airconditioning too??

If you liked Vision, you will love Rhapsody! (They are sister-ships.)
We have sailed both and had wonderful cruises.

LL

First of all I'm the guy that has never had a bad cruise.

I believe your choice is between two great ships on two of the best lines in the world.

However, with that said my wife and I believe the Conquest to be the best ship we have ever sailed.

Texascruiser - I totally understand your question about the outside dining. I've been on three Carnival ships and absolutely loved having breakfast outside in the breeze. There were plenty of tables to eat outside. That was my one disappointment on the Mariner of the Seas.