Hmmm, I just returned Sunday, and my experience, thankfully, does not match yours.
We arrived at the terminal at 10:45 for our 11:00 check in. Yes there was a short wait while they were doing noro-virus sanitation from the previous cruise, but we were at the Trellis bar, having martinis by noon.
That makes no sense, Royal gets the exact same revenue in either case.
When did this start? Our family Thanksgiving cruise we had one no show at the port, and the remaining cabin occupant received 2 points.
I have had an annual travel policy for several years now. I use Trawick International. I have had a couple minor claims (none cruise related ironically, but the policy is in effect anytime you are 50 miles from your home address). The claims were handled promptly and to my satisfaction, but I have had no major claims, knock on wood.
This is a very interesting question. And I don’t have the answer, when mine were young enough for adventure, ocean cellular phones had yet to be invented. In those days they gave the parents beepers.
The last couple trips we have been using the “Liquid I.V.” powder. My wife feels it helps her hydration and electrolytes better than Gatorade.
Just food for thought.