Navigator vs. Explorer

[Val]

We are planning a cruise this spring and can't seem to decide between RCCL's Navigator and Explorer of the sea. The first one is newer and the latter one is cheaper. What's better for a first time cruiser to take into consideration. Thanks.

[LisaK]

since these ships are sister ships they will have all the same ammenties, it comes down to your preferences as to the ports-of-call.

[jayne]

Val--we are also first time cruisers and picked the Navigator, no reason why except for she is newer and had a certain date needed to leave on 03/01/03---Try Buycruises.com, they have a toll free number and have them quote prices for both ships

I'm the family cruise editor here. Actually the Navigator's youth facilities are very different (and even larger) than the Explorer's. If you have teens, definitely pick the Navigator. It has a number of teens only areas including outdoor grill, teen area for sunning, etc. that no other ship has. If you have younger children, they'll love either -- we cruised on Explorer in June and my 8 year old LOVED the youth program and ship. I wrote on article on this section of CruiseMates.com on our experience aboard the EOS.
Let me know what you choose.
Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor

I booked my fiance and I for the April 19th sailing. This will be her first and my 7th cruise on Royal Caribbean. Both ships will be to your liking. have found in my experience that the new ships get all the best crew and entertainment for the first year. Service may be better, but this is just a biased opinion. Either way, have a great time. Got an unbeatable rate through the Sam's Club travel agency. Highly suggest getting a quote from them to compare.