Hi
Has anyone taken the CFC recently?
Thoughts?
Thanks
Original post
nathalie
Recent CFC Reviews
by Nataly03
Translated into English.
Hi there,
I took one of the last European cruises on the Renaissance last October, in case it helps.
You can find my travel journal here:
https://voyageforum.com/forum/compte-rendu-croisiere-renaissance-saveurs-iberiques-18-29-octobre-2025-d10791722/
The biggest plus with this company is definitely the French language everywhere: activities, books, lectures, service, announcements, movies, TV channels (a dedicated channel for French films), etc. Not to mention the chance to chat with other passengers.
Having traveled on HAL’s former Rotterdam, which is the Renaissance’s twin, I enjoyed the Renaissance much more. It just goes to show how much the ship’s layout can make a difference.
The differences that stood out to me: On the Renaissance, there’s no casino. Loungers were added to the outdoor deck overlooking the indoor pool, where there was nothing on the Rotterdam. The aft deck is very peaceful, quiet, and screen-free. No music.
Regarding the services: The food was more refined on HAL, that’s for sure, whether at the buffet or in the dining room. Back then, there was afternoon tea every day in the dining room. That doesn’t exist with CFC—afternoon tea is only at the buffet. However, the dining room is open every lunchtime. CFC mainly offers French cuisine, which, in my opinion, is still pretty good. And there’s a lot of choice at every meal (except for the more limited afternoon tea, but it’s nice that it exists).
As for the cabins, we had an ocean-view one—admittedly not brand new but a good size. I can’t comment on the other cabin categories.
I guess it all depends on the quality-to-price ratio you’re expecting. For us, we got a really good deal, in my opinion, given the service. I’d be more than happy to sail with CFC again if a good opportunity comes up.
If you need any more details, just ask!
The biggest plus with this company is definitely the French language everywhere: activities, books, lectures, service, announcements, movies, TV channels (a dedicated channel for French films), etc. Not to mention the chance to chat with other passengers.
Having traveled on HAL’s former Rotterdam, which is the Renaissance’s twin, I enjoyed the Renaissance much more. It just goes to show how much the ship’s layout can make a difference.
The differences that stood out to me: On the Renaissance, there’s no casino. Loungers were added to the outdoor deck overlooking the indoor pool, where there was nothing on the Rotterdam. The aft deck is very peaceful, quiet, and screen-free. No music.
Regarding the services: The food was more refined on HAL, that’s for sure, whether at the buffet or in the dining room. Back then, there was afternoon tea every day in the dining room. That doesn’t exist with CFC—afternoon tea is only at the buffet. However, the dining room is open every lunchtime. CFC mainly offers French cuisine, which, in my opinion, is still pretty good. And there’s a lot of choice at every meal (except for the more limited afternoon tea, but it’s nice that it exists).
As for the cabins, we had an ocean-view one—admittedly not brand new but a good size. I can’t comment on the other cabin categories.
I guess it all depends on the quality-to-price ratio you’re expecting. For us, we got a really good deal, in my opinion, given the service. I’d be more than happy to sail with CFC again if a good opportunity comes up.
If you need any more details, just ask!
Celebrity, HAL, RCI, CFC
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