From what I can see everyone is missing the main point from PCL's point of view, it all comes down to thier bottom line. If enough people just don't use the meddalion for purchases PCL will not make the returns that they expext and want.
I agree that it needs to optional to sign up for the shoreside purchases but it is just as important to make sure everyone understands how this will work If this concept catches on and is used by all of the cruise lines it will not take long for the vendors ro raise prices by sat 25% so they cover the extra costs,
Just my perspective Jim