It seems to me that the "land rush" syndrome in the case of "O" is due to several factors - favorable pax reviews, limited number of large suites, only 3 ships, attractive itineraries, high perceived value and a modest financial commitment to lock up a suite.

In December of last year we were put on a wait list for an OS on a cruise in February of '08 - 14 months in advance. All that was required was a 2K deposit to hold the reservation for a 28 day B2B. Susan worked her magic and confirmed us in an OS for both legs, still with only 2K out there until November when final payment is due. The opportunity cost of $2000 is low enough to get in on the ground floor without too much commitment. I contrast this with a booking we just made on the Navigator for 3 segments of the fall "discovery cruise". There are no MS or GS available, so we made an $8500 deposit to get on a priority wait list - no indication of having the suite clear, but it does require a little thought to put that money out there.

Yes, we're accepting some risk of disappointment with "O", but it looks good to us.

Wes, that Iguacu excursion I referred to is $2600 for two - charter flights, one O/N. A bit pricey, it seems to me.

Ted