Help me decide - Jewel or QV for Northern Europe - July 2008

We're going to take a Northern Europe (Baltics and Russia) cruise in 2008 and, we're getting ready to book. We're down to to two very different ships and cruise lines and would like your input. Here are the two choices:

Jewel of the Seas which depart on July 10, 2008 (12 nights)

or

Queen Victoria (Cunard) on July 18, 2008 (14 nights)

We have sailed both Cunard and Royal Caribbean. We like both lines even though they offer very different experiences. We sailed on Radiance class ships but not Jewel and we have sailed on QE2 and QM2 in the Cunard fleet but not on QV (since it's a brand new ship and won't be out until this December).

Oh I should mention the itineraries are nearly identical...

Anyone care to offer their opinion? We'll be booking a standard balcony cabin either way.

Thanks.

Murray

I could argue this both ways but, it all comes down to how formal of a cruise you wish to take. If there are children or young adults involved, Jewel would be the better choice. Whatever you decide, I'm sure you are going to enjoy it, it's a wonderful trip!

Eddie

Since this post is nearly identical to the other post, I have just cut and pasted my answer from there:

Funny two of the same posts in a row. I'm going to post this review for you first:
https://cruisefreekforums.forumotion.com/Jewel-of-the-Seas-July-2007-by-Critterchick-h28.html

A very worthwhile read, great job Critterchick! And, I will tell you that
we have also been eye-balling the July 10 2008 Baltic cruise on Jewel
as well. Still waiting for vacation permission before booking and
making it official.

And, if Host Bob is escorting the group - to me - that's one more reason to go. Nothing beats having your TA on the sailing with you!

Still have cabins available Host Bob?