I just found this site and - wow, has it been a great help!

I am in charge of planning a family cruise next year for my mom's 70th birthday. There will be 8 of us going. We are looking at an Inside Passage cruise - something my mom has never done. We are looking for a voyage that isn't formal (my 3 brothers-in-law are not into jacket & tie for dinners) and I Carnival seems a bit cheesy to me.

So....I have narrowed down to the Diamond Princess and the Radiance of the Seas. Since I am on the Princess Page - what direction can you share (I have read a few resports and understand the Diamond has had some challenges this year) in making this decision?

Thanks!

If casual is a key factor, you might also consider NCL's Freestyle dining. No one would have to don a tie or sportcoat (much less a tux) and would never feel out of place. There will be formal nights on both the Radiance and the Diamond Princess.

If it were between the two only, I would lean towards the Radiance of the Sea, but it will depend on the overall ages of the group.

Hope that helps.

Tom

Welcome to Cruise-Chat and glad you are finding the site helpful. Between the two ships, I would vote for Radiance of the Seas. Are you planning to do a CruiseTour or just the 7 day cruise?
Nancy

We are all in late 30's to mid 40's with the exception of my mother and niece (she will be 17). I haven't read too many great things about NCL (very assembly line and very average almost institutional dining). I was thinking of both Princess and RCCL because there seemed to be a ton of activities for all and "non-formal" options in terms of dining.

Without hesitation, I would strongly suggest the Radiance of the Seas. It would be the only choice for folks in your age bracket, in my opinion.

NCL has its moments, but is a great choice for folks that just do not want to dress for dinner at all. I don't think it would be right for your group now knowing the dynamics of it.

Have a great cruise!

Tom

I have sailed on Radiance of the Seas and it was wonderful. The rooms are larger, the food better, and the service better. Take the Radiance.