Labadee....sounds like changes are a comming

Don't shoot the messenger but this was just posted by a passenger who was at Labadee today:

Labadee is coming along nicely so far. The only thing new to report is that after October 5th, my favorite beach - I think it's Barefoot beach - will be available only for suite guests. This is where the cabana's are located. They built an entrance wall to keep everyone else out.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=20942484&postcount=5655

Interesting! Another nice perk for those who spend the extra $$$ for suites.

###

This perk just might make me appreciate Labadee again. ;)

sounds ok to me. there is plenty of space on labadee

Royal is sensitive to the fact that certain "other" cruise lines have a better reputation of treating their suite passengers better. This was also the main reason for the Diamonds being kicked out of the concierge lounge whether people want to believe it or not. Creating a more enjoyable environment for their higher paying customers. Royal felt they were losing the "high dollar" passengers to other cruise lines and made some changes over the past year in various ways to enhance the suite experience. Not surprisingly some of these "changes" have alienated some. Personally, it doesn't bother me at all if the people who pay the most receive more perks. From a marketing standpoint its not surprising at all. The idea is to entice people to book suites. Therefore spend more money. It is a business, remember?

I hope this information is faulty. I don't like the "elitist"/snob appeal that this would generate:(. Reserved deck chairs, reserved theater seats, a seperate beach area - they creating a caste system on purpose (and now a segregated section on Labadee). I am not comfortable with the direction this is going. Cruise version of segregation. Keep the "masses" away from the selected, anointed few?? It goes against the grain.

What do I usually sail? Balcony/Jr. Suite. I enjoy rubbing sholders with everyone. If this continues and creeps down - segregation of balcony vs "insides" or oceanview, it will be even more uncomfortable.:o

A seperate beach for the anointed?? Not a "black and white" issue per se, but close enough (economic differences?) to make me uncomfortable.

;)lol- maybe royal is seperating the "royalty" from the serfs - instead of selling to the middle ages, we're returning to them:eek:

What happen to cruising? More suite perks, no life jackets at the drills, no chocolates, no mid-night buffet.

As shareholders, we understand what they are doing.

As D+ guests, we also understand the fine line they are walking between $$$ and guest satisfaction and loyalty.

Rick and Deirdra

If people want a cruise with all the nice perks and special attention aren't there multiple cruise lines that offer just that. In fact they will even do it at a higher price than necessary just to make you feel like your in a suite. Who would book a 3,000-7,000 passenger cruise expecting special attention.

Royal should change their name to White Star Line and rename everything thats not a suite Steerage. People are going to start taking offense to this if RC keeps adding more things for the Suite holders and not the shareholders and Platinum level people like me.

I hope this information is faulty. I don't like the "elitist"/snob appeal that this would generate:(. Reserved deck chairs, reserved theater seats, a seperate beach area - they creating a caste system on purpose (and now a segregated section on Labadee). I am not comfortable with the direction this is going. Cruise version of segregation. Keep the "masses" away from the selected, anointed few?? It goes against the grain.

What do I usually sail? Balcony/Jr. Suite. I enjoy rubbing sholders with everyone. If this continues and creeps down - segregation of balcony vs "insides" or oceanview, it will be even more uncomfortable.:o

A seperate beach for the anointed?? Not a "black and white" issue per se, but close enough (economic differences?) to make me uncomfortable.

;)lol- maybe royal is seperating the "royalty" from the serfs - instead of selling to the middle ages, we're returning to them:eek:

I'm sure you're aware that ALL the cruise lines give special perks, etc. to their suite (highest paying) passengers. As an example, NCL offers daily breakfast and lunch to their suite and VIP passengers in one of their specialty restaurants. We have always found this to be a very enjoyable perk and one Royal should also consider. NCL's had reserved theater seating for suites for years. In many ways Royal is just catching up to what other cruise lines have been doing for quite a while. They've long been criticized for not doing enough for suite guests. It's debatable as to whether they are going overboard (no pun intended) in trying to alleviate that reputation.

What happen to cruising? More suite perks, no life jackets at the drills, no chocolates, no mid-night buffet.

Except in suites...:D

I hope this information is faulty. I don't like the "elitist"/snob appeal that this would generate:(. Reserved deck chairs, reserved theater seats, a seperate beach area - they creating a caste system on purpose (and now a segregated section on Labadee). I am not comfortable with the direction this is going. Cruise version of segregation. Keep the "masses" away from the selected, anointed few?? It goes against the grain.

What do I usually sail? Balcony/Jr. Suite. I enjoy rubbing sholders with everyone. If this continues and creeps down - segregation of balcony vs "insides" or oceanview, it will be even more uncomfortable.:o

A seperate beach for the anointed?? Not a "black and white" issue per se, but close enough (economic differences?) to make me uncomfortable.

;)lol- maybe royal is seperating the "royalty" from the serfs - instead of selling to the middle ages, we're returning to them:eek:

Have you flown or traveled by rail, stayed in a hotel or a resort? Even the auto dealers take much better care of those who buy luxury cars. Nothing is new here. Royal is finally rewarding the guests who are paying the big bucks, similar to what others have done for decades in like industries.

Cruise ships are HOTELS, people. Hotels do just this same thing with their high rollers.

Also, this is what cruising used to be all about. Carnival and RCCL actually veered away from traditional cruising in the 1960's.

I could care less if they give suite guests extra perks: they paid for it. Me? I'd rather use the money for another (one or two) cruises. :D

Cruise ships are HOTELS, people. Hotels do just this same thing with their high rollers.

 

Also, this is what cruising used to be all about. Carnival and RCCL actually veered away from traditional cruising in the 1960's.

 

I could care less if they give suite guests extra perks: they paid for it. Me? I'd rather use the money for another (one or two) cruises. :D

Amen!!

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

PRESS RELEASE

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

;) ;) ;)

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

 

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

 

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

 

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

 

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

 

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

 

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

 

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

 

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

 

;) ;) ;)

Nice job! :D

:) You had me going there for a minute --- Hopefully, this will not become a reality. That's one of the reasons we don't even look at the Cunard Line -

might as well be on the Titanic with it's separate class system. I also have

issues with the new Aqua Class on the Solstice and Equinox --- I will never book one of those cabins for the main reason that I am "delegated

to dine in a specific area". It's one thing to be given preference seating

as one of the "perks" for booking said cabins --- it's another thing to be

told that I HAVE to eat all my meals there. I think it

is insulting to not have access to the public areas of a ship based on the

type of cabin you have paid for. Sure, cruise ships are floating hotels but

other than the privacy of your room -- all public areas should be open to

EVERYONE. JMO

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

 

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

 

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

 

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

 

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

 

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

 

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

 

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

 

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

 

;) ;) ;)

Excellent job as always. Well done. :)

Bruin Steve.........love it!

We are diamond plus, and have paid many $$$$ for inside, ocean view and balcony cabins.........never a suite. I hope they are not getting into a "class" thing with steerage cabins! They'll be blocking off the promenade, shops, and casino for the high $$$$$$ suite guests next. Then will come front door and back door entrances according to prices paid.....They really need to quit trying to win over a few suite guests and take care of the "loyal" ones before they lose a lot of $$$$ of no inside, ocean view and balcony cabins being sold to those of us who really enjoy cruising more often than paying $$$$ for one week in a suite. If the perks keep dwindling down, more loyals will be cruising some other cruise lines. We have over 40 cruises, on 6 different lines.

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

 

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

 

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

 

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

 

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

 

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

 

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

 

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

 

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

 

;) ;) ;)

That is priceless. I actually started to believe it at first. :rolleyes: :D

That should be framed.

Let's all hope RCCL doesn't get any more ideas from reading it on here. :eek:

Bruin Steve.........love it!

 

We are diamond plus, and have paid many $$$$ for inside, ocean view and balcony cabins.........never a suite. I hope they are not getting into a "class" thing with steerage cabins! They'll be blocking off the promenade, shops, and casino for the high $$$$$$ suite guests next. Then will come front door and back door entrances according to prices paid.....They really need to quit trying to win over a few suite guests and take care of the "loyal" ones before they lose a lot of $$$$ of no inside, ocean view and balcony cabins being sold to those of us who really enjoy cruising more often than paying $$$$ for one week in a suite. If the perks keep dwindling down, more loyals will be cruising some other cruise lines. We have over 40 cruises, on 6 different lines.

I had two JS's on the Empress, which were really E1's. :rolleyes: "and have paid many $$$$ for inside, ocean view and balcony cabins.........never a suite." also.

And we already have done 13 straight cruises with RCCL and 4 more booked. I call that LOYAL to ROYAL too.

I have to admit, I would be thrilled if they kept me out of the Casino. :D :D :D :D :D

I think that I just peed my pants. Way to go, Bruin Steve!!!! :D

Bruin Steve I was ready to practice swimming because I thought that would be the way to get to the beach.

RCCL would charge for the paddles too.

Bruin Steve....that just made my morning:) It's great to see that a sense of humor still exists on some of these boards;)You did have me going there at the beginning:D