I think that most responses to the OP have been respectful enough, even when not in agreement w OP’s position or statements. For example, I stopped reading X’s forum a few years ago as I felt those CC posters were very “flamey” and could be very rude. Now I only go to that forum when I want to read about how unhappy they are about price increases and declines in service.
I did read a related thread on the X forum, and several posts did state they have been offered FCC’s or other concessions (don’t recall details). Of course, that’s only relevant if you’re willing to sail with X, and I’m NOT!
I sailed on Mariner in a lowly suite category. The bathroom had a shower only, no tub. It was glorious! Once I figured out how to open the shower door (doh!), it was a great experience.
I’ve been watching the rollcall for Oceania’s Nov 29 Riviera sailing, which I canceled a while ago. That itinerary was originally Istanbul to Dubai. The itinerary has been revised but they are still going to Dubai. The last time I looked, they still had an overnight in Luxor. R and O have the same corporate ownership, so your Navigator cruise will almost certainly cruise through Suez to Dubai (as you mentioned).
Best wishes,
There is a “sticky” thread with oodles of posts regarding R custom air. Its good to spend some time reading some posts and to get some ideas of “best practices.”
I’m not under the impression that the dress code on Regent is more strict than on Oceania. I suggest a little bit of research on the Regent forum. I think you might be pleasantly surprised and pleased.
I just read thru the Celebrity thread covering this topic. One thing that is different is that X also canceled the Egyptian ports. So, now it doesn’t go to Israel or Egypt.
Did that make a difference in the decision to offer refunds/FCC?
The cynic in me suggests that Regent is trying to minimize the number of pax who cancel prior to embarkation. The more pax who go on the cruise, the fewer “refunds/FCC” R will eventually need to pay out to fewer clients.
Outlandish thought?
Also look at sisterline Regent. They have some 0% single supplement TA and repositioning cruises. Pricey, but pricing includes everything, bizclass international flights, drinks, butlers, excursions. Fabulous food and service.. Is everything perfect?, no. But close. Take a look!
I can’t imagine that any R bathroom can be smaller than on luxury river cruiseline Uniworld! I was in one of the lowest stateroom categories; there was almost no room to turn around! 😀 Didn’t stop me from having a blast!
In the past, the boutiques on the cruises I’ve sailed on had one corner of the boutique dedicated to that kind of stuff. Dunno: toothbrush, toothpaste, yada yada. At exorbitant prices! 🤦♀️