I received unwanted “upgrades” on my last cruise and again for my upcoming cruise in January. Both times I had to call in to get either my original room or one similar.
It wouldn’t be that hard to write a program to analyze cruisers’ historical preferences to offer cabins to people that they’d be willing to take.
Each time, they’ve tried to move us forward from our favourite aft cabins. Not everyone wants to be smack dab in the middle of the ship. I’d take an upgraded forward cabin before a mid ship one, unless it’s a big jump (small balcony to a large mini suite or suite).
I agree that it would be great if they could just add a Do Not Upgrade button for online bookings. They could easily do that and add a disclaimer to cover themselves if they have to force a move on someone.