xrvlcruiser

http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=6102

A fire in the engine room . . . . . .

Peggy

So very sad . . my thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who died and with the rest of the crew and passengers.

And I hear the GM is Franck Galzy . . . .sounds great!

OctoberKat: glad to help!

The Crew Fund covers extra/emergency items for the crew- tours in some of the ports (St Petersburg for example), parties, transportation home for crew in case of family emergency and a variety of other things. I am a supporter of it - both the theory and in practice.

I've also been part of the auctions which have raised money as described by gwain6 - they are fun - both Jamie and Ray do a good job. The last one I took part in raised $45K on the Mariner during a Circle South America in 2013. I'm glad to hear that they are continuing on the Grand Voyages.

OctoberKat, I'm not sure who would have - or would give you - the information about crew salaries. I do know when the system changed and tips were included, the staff/crew seemed happier than before the change. My impression is that they netted more money - just my impression with no specifics.

Peggy

deleted - wrong forum

Propping your door open a bit sometimes works - the width of a book usually does it.

I agree with Mariners.

I read CC frequently but do not post very often. I hope you will reconsider and continue to post.

Peggy

Don,

Thank you for the reminder that check-in is controlled by third parties and NOT by the cruise line.

I've had issues occasionally in both Miami and Ft Lauderdale and have heard so much chatter/grumbling around me blaming the line when they have no control.

Peggy

I've been to a number of M&G on Regent - privately arranged - over the years. The staff on board has always been very helpful in putting things together.

The M&G on Crystal are very nice too - and on one occasion, someone from CC was there as well.

Computerworks says that NCL does sponsor the gatherings - I wonder if R and O will change their policies going forward.

Peggy

The door to the GM's office is always open. I don't know who is on at the moment but all the people I've met as GMs are anxious to listen to what passengers have to say. And to help resolve any problems.

In many ways, it is better to talk to someone on board rather than waiting to fill out the form and then leave the ship.

Just my opinion.

Peggy

Baked potato: are they baked in foil? (I hope not)

Good top staff on board! And all very nice people . . . . lucky you!

Peggy

Honeyman,

Please let Oceania know about your issue. If what you suspect is true, the cabin needs to be handled.

I say this as a general comment but also because I board the Riviera next week!

Peggy

Thanks Computerworks . . . .

The personnel changes have begun... at VP levels at O and NCL, so far.

Will you expand on this?

Peggy

I am sailing on the Riviera on November 29.

There is a Coast Guard inspection that day. I think the new boarding time is 3pm.

I am staying at one of the Oceania hotels and will check there and others should too.

Peggy

I have no specific information but in addition to the passengers, there is crew/staff, I'm sure there is a tailor on board. Check the information packet in the cabin - there is normally a list with the charges to do various alternations.

Or ask your stewardess/butler or the front desk.

The HK tailors will not alter previous owned clothes - they are there to sell their product. Which for the most part is good quality, dependent on the company.

Peggy

I've never filled out a form (never been in a PH) but have always had my requests filled quickly after embark.

Peggy

Congratulations to Captain Felice and all the wonderful crew/staff on the Mariner!

Peggy

Or the guide on each bus could say that if someone decides to leave the tour, please be sure to let the guide know. For the consideration of others.

It makes me feel more comfortable to check in on line and to have the paper boarding pass.

That's enough for me.

So I guess that makes me "so 20th Century".

Peggy

you're welcome.

OctoberKat,

Just to be sure, I would ask your TA to pre-order the distilled water . . . .better safe than sorry.

Peggy

decisions, decisions . . . . .