What is it like being on an inaugural cruise sailing?

Question

What is it like being on an inaugural cruise sailing?

Answer 1

I've been on several, these are very special events.

Every port call is usually a big deal- when a cruise ship visits a port for the first time the port tends to make a big to do for the ship.  Everything is still new, crisp, and clean.

On the other hand, typically the bugs in the system aren't worked out yet and I've heard (and in some cases experienced) some horror stories that were a direct result of kinks that were still in the new systems...  

QM2 experienced serious customer service and food quality issues for her first few months in service, there were also some serious electrical glitches onboard as well nothing that affected safety though...

Disney Magic also had an inauspicous start to her career with elevators that stopped working, activity programs that hadn't been fully fleshed out prior to operation and more.

On the one hand, inaugurals are a once in a lifetime chance to be a part of maritime history, on the other they're a chance to be the cruise line's guinea pig...

Answer 2

You will get to experience a new ship, with everything in working order. However, be prepared for some kinks that still need to be ironed out: crew may not be as familiar with the ship, some of them may be new, with little experience. Be patient and just enjoy!

Let me know if I can help you plan your cruise!

Answer 3

You get to be Christopher Columbus all over again.  every port is new for your particular ship and every port welcomes you with open arms.  All the kinks are still to be worked out, so you have to have patience, but what a wonderful opportunity to be one of the 'first'.

Answer 4

The inaugural sailing is to get the bumps fixed!

there have been plenty of satisfied cruise clients on these 1st sailings, but keep in mind that malfunctions may occur the 1st time out.