ladyflatlander

21 hours ago, lovecruzin said:

While I think there are too many cases of people traveling with their ESAs, keep in mind that not all disabilities are visible. 

Very well said, you never know until you walk in their shoes what disability, physical or mental, they live with

I would love to see a Biafran racing snake onboard a cruise ship. Then I might say some food is inedible. If a meal is not right in any of the restaurants don't wait until two weeks after you have left the ship to bellyache about it on a travel blog. There are supervisors until the cows come home in dining rooms, get hold of them, get them to fix the problem and move on. If my steak isn't cooked as I have requested I send it back and if it were to come back not cooked correctly I would again send it back , this time via one of the maître"ds. When I am dining a maître D must walk past me at least a dozen times during my meal and if I signal him/her over with a problem its resolved on the spot. When staff are trying to feed 3000 people in a 3 hour window issues will occur. Its how the issues are resolved which sorts out the wheat from the chaff. If they are unaware of a problem they cant fix it.

Agree--- if you don't let someone know of a problem, it will not be corrected. Your bad

I agree... to an extent. I mean we always have insurance. Always. But exceptions can be for humanity purposes. This is not a situation that they can't go on a vacation because of a change of plans at work, a divorce, or whatever. This was a major hurricane that destroyed homes of their customers and also ports that they offered. If they had to make changes, they should expect others need to do the same.

 

They won't though. They got the money. I have a feeling if their policy was to pat upon boarding, they'd make exceptions! Ha! As they would want that money! Ha!

otttom line is they are a business enterprise and their business is to make money. We are all responsible for our own actions and that means----our responsibility to buy trip insurance.

What I am referring to is the "First Night Done Right" 50% off specialty offered day 1. An online pre booking choice.

W

This offer has been on the last 6 cruises we have been on. The specific offer has been "book first or second night for a specialty restaurant and get second person free. On our recent transatlantic on Serenade we went to Chops on 2nd night. And did so on our January cruise also. You just need to make your reservation on the first day. You do not have to pay ahead of time, only when you have dinner

 

Really? We had a coffeemaker (and coffee, sweetners, & creamers) in our JS on Jewel last month. :)

 

Imstand corrected, forgot he will be in JS.

Are you sure you're Australian?

Calm down, chuck on a pair of thongs & enjoy it!

Cruises are THE BEST!

Radiance is THE BEST!

The shows are amazing, the food is great.

Just enjoy everything for what it is... The element of surprise is awesome sometimes!

Well stated with one addition--toss in a positive attitude Just a humble opinion from one of those "ugly Americans" who just arrived home from 28 days on the Radiance with 1,625 Australians and none of them shunned me!

Go and enjoy!

You will have a coffee maker in your room. Drink as much as you want. Your room attendant will keep you stocked up.[/quote

 

Very wrong. NO coffee or tea makers in your stateroom.

I have about 1300.00 worth of points to use on my next cruise. My question is this:

If on the last night of the cruise I still have a couple hundred dollars left on my account, will they automatically apply the credit to my credit card? Will I have to go stand in line on the last day to make sure they do this?

 

I am self embarking and want to be one of the first off the ship. I don't want to have to worry about my obc being credited to my credit card.

 

Any input and suggestions are welcome!

 

Thank you!

Depends on what type of OBC, some is refundable and some is not. So if you don't use it you lose it. Check with customer relations early in cruise to see what you have that may be refundable

I am quite aware there are reasons. I am also acutely aware that it is out of my hands how he handles it, it is only my responsibility to inform him of how royal will likely handle the situation as I am the one who planned the whole cruise for everyone. But really, thank you for reminding me there is a reason for the rule.

I agree, the rule is there for a reason. I don't understand why some people believe the rules are for everyone, except them!

I'm a bit confused about the elite cocktail hour (never having sailed celebrity before) is it in a space that is 24/7 only for elite members? (Sorry for my ignorance on this :( ). Or a space that for an hour a day is reserved solely for these members? If the latter then why would people ever care about this? Can't any group of people rent out a space for a certain period of time?

 

I think the main difference between a space set aside for elite members and a space set aside for suite passengers and people referring to it as a "class system" is one thing: MONEY. Anyone can potentially become an elite member, someone can sail a bunch of times only in inside cabins and be an elite member. Not everyone can afford a suite. This seems to be what would be creating a "class system".

 

**For the record I'm not saying I that I believe there will be a class system**

Totally agree. Elite lounge is private for only 2 hours each evening. As you say anyone can become Elite based on number of actual cruise days/nights points earned by being a loyal X cruiser in any stateroom, not just for a special class of cruiser. As for the Elite breakfast is is for a limited time each morning in a specialty restaurant that is not open in the mornings anyway.

It seems a shame to close of certain areas of any ship 24/7 for any one class of cruiser IMHO.

I do not think you are being over-sensitive at all about the wording of Celebrity's news release. I have always believed that words matter, that we use words and words use us. Actually, I don't like the wording of "elitist level" either. It is too bad that companies and people have to appeal to pride and prejudice--now that's a phrase I've heard before:).

After reading all the comments on this forum, I think if having their "special areas" set aside makes them happy, what a tragedy. Often times the people in the world I admire the most and respect would not be in the "special area" and what a loss that would be. Just think what joy may be missed when isolated in our Ivory Towers, Just MHO

Many folks don't find the Sea View cafe on Radiance class ships. The easiest way is to go toward the back of the Windjammer on the starboard side and take those stairs up to deck 12. Turn right and the Sea View is just ahead. Also, tho' robes are not given to pax unless they are C&A Platinum or above, many times you can get robes just by asking your cabin steward. If there are any available, you will get them. The steam and saunas inside the locker rooms on Voyager and Freedom class ships are at no charge. (can't remember if Radiance class has these too) And if you want a larger shower, use those in the locker room which are bigger than those in your cabin if you are in less than a Jr. Suite or higher. Don't miss the "peekaboo bridge" on Voyager class ships on deck 11 all the way forward. If you like shrimp, be sure to check the Cafe Promenade for shrimp salad and egg sandwiches. They are usually served on the second or third day of the cruise. Yummy!

Don't believe the Radiance has Seaview any more. After refurbishing it was changed to something else.

Anyone out there know for sure? It was one of our favorite places.

We don't live near any ports so we would have air fare to consider. We also like 14 day cruises. Have never done a 5 day but I suspect the ambiance on a 5 day is different than on a 14 day. Just my opinion. We will not book a b2b2b just to get points. Besides, we'll be elite + after our Alaska cruise without any other promo points.

 

Mary Lou

Totally agree, we have to fly to any port, so to fly for only a 5 day cruises certainly doesn't make any sense. Besides, who wants to go through that many boardings, muster drills and disembarks....just give me a nice, relaxing 14 days after a long flight.

Thiss will be our first cruise on Celebrity and I'm beginning to have more & more misgivings about our choice.

 

We are well-seasoned travelleres and cruisers who have enjoyed wonderful expériences. Howerver, reading the Celebrity board, there seems to be ever so much more snobbiness and class distinction on the line.

 

For example, on HAL,every cabin received Elemis products and a housecoat.Fresh orange juice was available for free to everyone in the morning.If one had a suite, the was a pricate reception room with concierge services but that was about all the distinction there was. Didn't seem to matter how many stars one had either.

 

On the X board, I see fellow passengers making distinctions between those who are higher up on the Captain's Club scale and those who are not. . There also seems to be a distinction between those who cruise Solstice class and those who cruise Millenium . So many little things that enhance class feeling: stools on balcony, privileged seating in theatre, etc.

For those who feel like flaming me, it's your call. Of course we could have chosen another line that we know and are comfortable with, but DH & I like to experience something different and X does have a good reputation

. Plus the date, price and itinerary suited us. Plus we do like fixed seating and formal evenings.

 

 

So perhaps I'm feeling misconceptions and my apprehensions are not well- founded. Please let us know if X is class-oriented or not. Thanks

By all means go on the X cruise. You will enjoy the friendliness and outstanding service from everyone. The posts you refer to on these boards represent only a small percentage of those actually sailing. I do believe the cruisers on X are more experienced cruisers and expect a little more from their cruises, and I feel they deliver as promised.

Be comfortable in your own shoes...you will have a nice time.

Hi,

 

I'd like to get some feedback from anyone who has taken a South America / Antarctica cruise. I am interested in going and am looking at many different options - small ship / large ship. It appears that with the Celebrity itinerary at no time is there really an opportunity to actually set foot on Antarctica, unlike the smaller exploration-oriented cruises that utilize the zodiac crafts to go ashore. So if anyone has any insight into this, I'd greatly appreciate it. It looks like a nice cruise, but it seems the emphasis is more on South America than Antarctica.

 

Thanks,

Keith

Personal preference...we did the Celebrity Infinity last Feb 2 and it was an unforgettable experience . After walking through all the penguin colonies in Ushuaia and Volunteer Point in the Falklands (an absolute must) we don't feel we missed anything by not landing on the ice. Two days of cruising Paradise Bay, Drake passage and Cape Horn were great.

Volunteer Point in the Falklands with Patrick Watts a must. Check him out on Trip Advisor and Nat Geo. We had to book him 18 months ahead of time and were on a waiting list for a short time before being confirmed. Better and cheaper than the ship tours.

Good luck..you will love the experience either way.

So, no resolution but at least they are aware of it and claim it's being worked on.

Dear Mr. (MisterBill99):

 

Thank you for contacting the Executive Offices of Celebrity Cruises. On behalf of Mr. Bayley, I appreciate the opportunity to assist with your correspondence.

 

I am truly sorry to learn of the difficulties our valued guests have experienced in signing up for the Cruise Critic Connections party on their upcoming sailings, as a result of the recent updates being made to our website. While I fully understand this does not resolve any current inconvenience, please be assured that our IT Department is working to correct this matter. Nevertheless, we cannot apologize enough for the concerns this has caused to you and many other guests during this process. Thank you for your continued patience.

 

Mr. (MisterBill99), please know that our guests concerns regarding this unfortunate situation, are being heard. We are passionate about delivering excellence, and we will continue to make the most of their insightful observations.

 

Sincerely,

 

Tanji Smith

From the Office of Michael Bayley, President & CEO

Celebrity Cruises

Got the exact same form letter response today to my letter to Bayley. Just lip service with no sincerity to fix the problem. In the past month and a half I have booked over $3,000 in shore excursions for 3 cruises booked in 2014. All are private because I couldn't use website and was sick and tired of being on hold for the phone rep.

Have called three times and been promised luggage tags for Jan 11 cruise and still no tags....can't even get results wit phone call.

Hi,

 

I was told by Celebrity that my 15 yeard old would need Government ID and A birth Certificate or a passport to sail on a closed loop cruise, Ft, Lauderdale to Cozumel to Key West to Ft. Lauderdale. Is this true?

 

In the past we just used a Birth Certificate, since she is not a driver and is not getting her permit yet, she won't have a Drivers License to show as picture ID. All we have is a birth certificate. Did Celebrity give me the correct information?

Would never take a chance. Get a passport. Things happen, accidents and emergencies...risky business on shore without a passport. They are good now for 10 years.

I'm sailing Eclipse in February over Valentine's Day and hearing what a great time you are having is adding to the excitement! I've only sailed on Solstice in her inaugural year and loved her so Eclipse should feel familiar. I'm really happy about the 14 day itinerary - my first longer cruise that should allow plenty of time to really get to know the ship! Enjoy the rest of your cruise!!!

January 11 will be our first sailing the Eclipse. All the wonderful comments are music to our ears. We will be on sister ship, Silhouette, for Nov 1 TA.

Looking forward to both.

Ladyflatlander

We cruised on Celebrity 30-60 nights per year and always in a Sky suite or higher. We have for years and with this new accounting will have 1500 points I think? We always bought our alcohol....NEVER went to Elite happy hours and when the drink packages came we always signed up premium. The Small Ship in a big ship program....was AMAZING for us. We have over 300 nights aboard Silversea over 100 on Seabourn....but we get bored.....lots of VERY OLD people. Some great! Some really hateful and angry. Some great itinerary's though.

 

I LOATHE the destruction of the Celebrity Elite happy hour.....keeping all the cheapos in the Sky lounge is great for us. We can enjoy the bars at our leisure and not have to deal with crowds.....Which is what we pay for with the premium alcohol package. This has changed.....Smaller glasses are introduced for the happy hour folk.....Bartenders take forever to take a drink orders, pouring crap house vodka when Russian Standard has been ordered, people are using other peoples tickets.....a guy using "barbaras ticket.....shes not here right now....busted" WE HAVE PAID extra to get? Drunk people who try to shove in as much alcohol as possible in a two hour window puking in various bars..... It is starting to make us re think our Celebrity cruises at $800+ per day per couple with packages on Celebrity? It is becoming a bit of a free for all. Nice people are all good, but this "free" mentality is creating monsters.

 

IF Celebrity cruises is looking to attract a younger affluent crowd, they cannot sacrifice the exclusivity that being in a suite and purchasing a higher end drink package bring. Or they can and their suites will ride empty. That said, they are experimenting with Suite concierge lounges etc..and doing away with Butlers.....so perhaps there is hope in site. If they want us to pay....they need to deliver. IMHO

 

Safe sailing to all.

Thank you Cruise Critic for providing such a wonderful tool on your website such as the Ignore List. I just bet a number of readers will select this option. Click.....end of discussion for me.

Just how is Celebrity "sticking" it to you?

Are you no longer allowed to eat in MDR with Concierge Class passengers?

Are you no longer allowed to sit on the same loungers by the pool?

Are you no longer allowed to see the entertainment or participate in ship's activities?

Sorry but that phrase really bothers me.

The only thing that has changed is that it will take longer to get some free extras based on what has been spent for the cabin.

You can still get that drink, or still have internet access or still have your laundry done but to get that as a benefit will take longer.

Just as the old saying goes.....You get what you pay for. More $$$ spent more perks. Just thankful they still continue loyalty programs at all with the economy situation. It is a Perk/gift....not a guarantee.

Do you think these vouchers will be allowed in the MDR?

We have been doing this on Celebrity for past 2 years, works out great. Can't use in MDR, be always pick up a glass of wine at the bar right near the MDR and take it in with us.

Nice to see preload on cruise card instead of the nightly vouchers. Too easy to slip away from the cabin without them and then have to go back for them. You also need them in the Captains Club on Celebrity.

Just bet you will enjoy them.

We are going on the Scandinavia and Russia cruise in July and would appreciate some advice about worthwhile organised trips. Any suggestions?

SBP tours did an incredible private tour for us in St Ptsb. Handled all visa requirements. We worked up a group of about 20 fellow CC members on the roll call.

We have the same situation. It really depends on what you like. We plan to spend it on an excursion from St. Thomas. We'll book as soon as we get on board - I'm hoping our top choice will still be available but there are multiple options we'd be happy with. All other days we are doing our own thing or going with a private tour company. I'm not sure that any ship's tour is the best value, but for us, it seemed to be the best use of the free money. But other options I considered were buying photos or possibly items in the gift shops.

 

It's a great problem to have! :)

If concerned that tour will be booked by sail time, book now and charge to credit card, then once onboard go tomShore Excursion desk and tell the to transfer to Obc. Have done many times,

I would venture that corporate knows all about the website issues and doesn't really care. They have TAs who do most of their bookings and others book over the phone.

 

The >40 crowd is just as comfortable booking through alternate methods - and those are Celebrity's targeted audience. Until the highly tech savvy crowd becomes their target audience and as long as bookings continue, they won't fix the website. The ROI just isn't there.

 

Don't know, but I wonder if Carnival or Disney have such horrible websites?

Whoa....back up the horse... Me and most of friends well over 40 but certainly prefer the speed and efficiency of a well organized and working website.

Especially, with old age hearing and hearing aids, lousy phone connections are a drag.

Just MHO

No kidding...when I was designing our corporate finance website, I worked in Development with an "under construction" message for anyone trying to access. Basic!

 

I get the same longgggg message when I try to access to join the CC party and sent the whole message directly to them...that was a few weeks ago, so nothing yet.

I did the same thing a week ago.........still waiting and no response