What's VIP pool seating?

[Maddle]

I was on the Freedom a few weeks ago, and often looked over at the roped off area for suite guests on sea days.....and lo and behold, 90% of those seats were empty the whole day! I think what really bugged me about it was that there were so many other passengers walking around looking for good poolside seating and couldn't find it......while those seats remained empty......

 

I agree that if you snooze you lose as far as preferred seats are concerned - But as you can see by the quoted observation, empty reserved seats while guests go searching in vain is not an unwarranted concern.

 

I have been on full occupancy cruises, where you couldn't get a seat on the deck, let alone in a preferred location. Seats were occupied by living breathing guests and not phantom chair hogs.

 

Maddle

[Retired LEO]

Tickets were not necessary for any of the shows. I would say that the only tough show to get into (both Suite and non-Suite people) is the primetime Ice Skating show since it is in the smaller theater; so get there a little early for that or go to one of the Ice Skating shows during the day instead. Otherwise, getting a seat was not a problem.

 

Definitely go to the Concierge Lounge (5 to 8.30 at night); free wine, some mixed drinks, and cheese and other small plates. Really cool to just hang out in there before dinner or a show, get some drinks, and get another last drink to go (they do have to give you that to-go drink in a plastic cup because of policy, but who cares, it is free liquor!!). Also, go there in the morning and get some good free coffee, including capuccinos and expressos, and take them back to your room or the Windjammer if you want.

 

Like I said, VIP pool seating was great. Also, you get priority on tenders from the ship!!! which was so great at one of the ports (I think Cayman Islands it was); the line was so long, backed up to the third floor!!! Looked like at least a 30 minute wait. We just showed them our suite card and they put us in the next boat, skipping the entire line, no waiting!!

 

Also, we were invited to a private captain's cocktail party, only for suite people, at one of the nice lounges. Captain and other crew were there. Champagne, drinks, and more bite size foods...again, all free.

 

It's really great. You will get a full list of the benefits once you get on board.

 

You mean to say that you didn't sit in the front row reserved seats? :eek:

[Maddle]

You mean to say that you didn't sit in the front row reserved seats? :eek:

 

Perhaps the front row seats were filled. Just like my cousin avoiding the sun and wind up on the pool deck, he has to sit somewhere.

 

It's the reserved EMPTY seats that are an irritant.

 

Maddle

[temple1]

Obviously, some people in line were making faces as we were getting escorted to the front, but that just made the experience that more enjoyable. I could care less what they think.

 

 

So you either cared what other people thought, or you didn't care. Which was it?

 

Oh, before you get all accusatory and throwing out suite envy etc - I think priority tenders are a nice touch for suite guests if you are there when the instructions say you should be.

[temple1]

Unless they moved the location - I really love where the "special" seats are on Enchantment - the deck above the Solarium in the space between the stack and the wall of the Solarium. :D

 

It struck me over the weekend why it is so annoying. We attend the US Open every year and get the really cheap seats. We spend most of our day in one of the side stadiums. In the past few years the USTA has started selling some of the seats in the smaller stadium as a separate ticket. Creating a reserved seating area where there wasn't one before. Didn't bother us - we were happy with our usual area in General Admission - better seats than many of the "reserved" ticket holders had. Unfortunately, some of the folks with reserved tickets were sitting in the General Admission area where we sit - there by taking 2 seats and causing some General Admission ticket holders to go in search of seats. :mad:

[DEL67]

I will use it if there are no kids in the area!

 

There were a number of kids in that area dueing the 8/23 Navigator sailing.

[pete78]

You mean to say that you didn't sit in the front row reserved seats? :eek:

 

We got front row, middle, at top, every time...beautiful seats...can see the entire theater. Some tried to sneak through into the suite section, one even said "I've cruised 20 times with you", the usher told him, "sorry sir, suite guests only".

[pete78]

So you either cared what other people thought, or you didn't care. Which was it?

 

Oh, before you get all accusatory and throwing out suite envy etc - I think priority tenders are a nice touch for suite guests if you are there when the instructions say you should be.

 

What I meant by that is that I didn't care and was actually looking for the nasty looks (I kind of enjoy it so that I can smile back at them, and at the same time tell my wife - so everyone can hear - how great the perk is; makes them more angry). Those folks are so annoying. When I'm on the other end of such a situation, with someone enjoying a perk/benefit, I pat them on the back and figure out how I can be in that position next time. I don't get jealous.

[luckyprincess]

We enjoyed this perk so much on the FOS recently!!!!!Especially on the sea days, when the pool is jammed packed. It's nice to just walk up and grab your chairs and not be one of the ones struggling to find seats all day long. Seating was always available in the VIP section, and provided for great views of the entire pool area.

 

We also saw them kick out a few non-suite people that tried to sneak in (there is a little rope separating the VIP section); it was nice to see enforcement of the rules.

 

GS was totally worth it, even if just for the VIP pool seating and the Concierge Lounge access (free alcohol and bite sized foods before dinner; and they let you take drinks to go to dinner....and great morning coffee; that cappuccino machine was wonderful!! made one every morning and brought it to breakfast). Another perk of GS - breakfast at a table window in Portofino instead of eating with the masses in the Windjammer. Just grab your food in WJ and bring it to your window table at Portofinos, with wonderful views..

 

I hope Royal continues to expand their suite benefits. We loved them!! Priority Seating at the theater was great too.

Lol! I don't think it's called VIP seating - it's called Suite seating! There isn't anything VIP about paying too much for some booze (it's not free - it's just included in the price) and some chairs on a tier - in my opinion of course! I've got a pool at home and can't imagine going in one on vacay and I eat breakfast on my balcony with my sweetie - not with a bunch of folks in a restaurant. I also don't want to mingle with the other folks just to get some free booze (I'm not antisocial but I have to make small talk all day at work) .... and I saved much more than you to spend on stuff that is actually worthwhile for me! So I guess everyone wins! I just find it ironic that someone would consider their perks VIP when I consider the perks worthless - if they would get some actual useful (for me) perks I wouldn't mind spending for them but you need to do the math in your head. If you drink a lot, then the booze in the lounge is worth it. If you have a bunch of kids or have to sail with older relatives or something than the extra room is worth it. If you don't have a pool or something at home, then the suite seating by the pool would be worth it. I live near NYC and Broadway, so I don't really go to the shows (except the comedians - they were awesome!) so again - not worth it!

Guess I'm lucky that I don't want the perks - gives me more $$ to spend my way!:D

[CruisinManiac]

We got front row, middle, at top, every time...beautiful seats...can see the entire theater. Some tried to sneak through into the suite section, one even said "I've cruised 20 times with you", the usher told him, "sorry sir, suite guests only".

 

Where are the seats in the AOS? Is it the top deck of the theater?

[Aquahound]

Unless they moved the location - I really love where the "special" seats are on Enchantment - the deck above the Solarium in the space between the stack and the wall of the Solarium. :D

 

It's still there, and it is not very well known. It was always empty on our cruise.

[Bigtex1622]

We have always gotten a suite. It is not that much more, and you get a lot of room. When you split it up between 3 people, it is not all that bad. This time we have a RFS and had to have 5 so the price is really great per person. Now to find out we get little perks like this. RCCL will probably see more of my business. I need to find that "list" some are talking about.

[temple1]

It's still there, and it is not very well known. It was always empty on our cruise.

 

Me thinks who ever is in charge of the physical arrangements on the Enchantment was not exactly thrilled with the concept. :D

[kkpcruiser]

I am about as 'common folk" as you can get - DH a maintenance worker in a paper mill and myself upper management in a police department. We aren't made of money - new or old :D. If you think your public servants get paid well, please realize that the guys that work with my husband making paper bags make way more per hour than I do. Also, since I must fly to nearly every port, I save my money and don't take a cruise as often as folks who can drive. However, when I go, I want a nice vacation. Will you see me sitting in the "snobs only section" of the pool deck. Perhaps if it is in a good area. Will I be embarassed? Nope. Heck, I don't have a grudge against people who choose to pay top dollar for that extra space in the plane including good food and free drinks. Please don't have a grudge against me for splurging for our 25th anniversary in style. The suite perks helped make up my mind to book the GS to make it just maybe a little more special for our special time. My biggest fear however is if I can ever force myself into "just a balcony" room:eek:

 

KUFFMUP

Good for you! We are in a JS for out upcoming cruise. Other than Disney cruises I have taken my daughters on (motherdaughter time) in a rgualr balcony, DH has gone from The RS on Voyager (first cruise- 25th ann, one daughters HS grad and her 18th) to a few OSs to the GS. I am trying to get him to see that we could cruise alot more if he'd lower his luxury levels but he feels that if he is going to vacation, why be cramped and bumping into eachother all the time!

Anyways, I just wanted to say the GS is great and the balcony is even better. Enjoy the extra space and have a great time!

PS. DH doesn;t think he'd sit in the roped off area if we were in a full suite this time..then again..somehow if they were in the "best" area of the pool, he'd be there;)!

[powelweb]

We have always gotten a suite. It is not that much more, and you get a lot of room. When you split it up between 3 people, it is not all that bad. This time we have a RFS and had to have 5 so the price is really great per person. Now to find out we get little perks like this. RCCL will probably see more of my business. I need to find that "list" some are talking about.

 

Enhanced Program for Suite Guests Staying in the following suites*:

Royal Suite, Royal Family Suite, Presidential Family Suite, Owner's Suite, Grand Suite

Oasis Class: Royal Loft Suite, Sky Loft Suite, AquaTheater Suite & Crown Loft Suite

 

*Excludes Junior Suites

 

Priority check-in

Personalized attention throughout the cruise with complimentary Concierge Club service on select ships

Reserved prime seating in the main theater for entertainment shows, where available

Priority tender tickets on select cruises. (Tender service is provided when smaller vessels are necessary to reach shore in locations without docking ports large enough for cruise ships.)

VIP pool deck seating, where available

Full breakfast, lunch and dinner dining room menus available for in-room dining

Private breakfast and lunch seating in specialty restaurants on our Voyager and Freedom Class ships

Mattel® board games available to order for in-room entertainment for the kids

Complimentary luggage valet service

Luxury spa bathrobes for use onboard

Complimentary pressing service on formal night

Priority departure with exclusive suite* departure lounge featuring continental breakfast

[powelweb]

And also

 

Q: What amenities are included in the Concierge Club service?

A: Diamond-level and above Crown & Anchor Society members and guests reserved in our Suites (excluding Junior Suites) can take advantage of the Concierge Club. Available on the Enchantment of the Seas® and all Voyager and Radiance-class ships, Concierge Club guests will receive this complimentary service that provides assistance with any special requests they may have while sailing. As a Concierge Club guest, you will be offered amenities and services not available to other guests including:

A dedicated Concierge who is available to assist with anything you require

Twenty-four-hour a day use of the Concierge Club Lounge

Continental breakfast every morning† and open bar & hors d'oeuvres every evening available in the Concierge Club Lounge

Assistance with reservations for Portofino Italian restaurant & Chops Grille Steakhouse

Assistance with Explorations! Bookings

Assistance booking appointments for Salon or Spa treatments

Priority tickets for the ice skating show

Assistance with the arrangement of private parties

Personalized Discover Shopping advice

DVDs and CDs available to borrow during the Concierge's hours

Pre-ordering of your dinner wine

Business services (faxing, copying, etc.)

[pete78]

Lol! I don't think it's called VIP seating - it's called Suite seating! There isn't anything VIP about paying too much for some booze (it's not free - it's just included in the price) and some chairs on a tier - in my opinion of course! I've got a pool at home and can't imagine going in one on vacay and I eat breakfast on my balcony with my sweetie - not with a bunch of folks in a restaurant. I also don't want to mingle with the other folks just to get some free booze (I'm not antisocial but I have to make small talk all day at work) .... and I saved much more than you to spend on stuff that is actually worthwhile for me! So I guess everyone wins! I just find it ironic that someone would consider their perks VIP when I consider the perks worthless - if they would get some actual useful (for me) perks I wouldn't mind spending for them but you need to do the math in your head. If you drink a lot, then the booze in the lounge is worth it. If you have a bunch of kids or have to sail with older relatives or something than the extra room is worth it. If you don't have a pool or something at home, then the suite seating by the pool would be worth it. I live near NYC and Broadway, so I don't really go to the shows (except the comedians - they were awesome!) so again - not worth it!

Guess I'm lucky that I don't want the perks - gives me more $$ to spend my way!:D

 

Just a few FYIs (in case you want to know).

 

Theater Seating: It's nice to know you have great seats waiting for you so you're not rushing to the theater all the time. A few times we strolled in after dinner with chairs waiting for us, while other folks that were there before us (non suite) were still standing and either watched the show standing up or had to leave, unfortunately.

 

Portofino Breakfast: Most mornings, the restaurant was empty....we had the a table for two at Portofino, eating breakfast, with waiter service, and no one else in the restaurant, with a beautiful view of the Ocean. Not everyone eats breakfast at the same time and not all suite folks know about it or take advantage of the perk, so taken together, that makes the Portofino empty most times. This was one of the highlights of our trip. So romantic, and so nice to be away from the crowds (seems like you like to be away from the groups, so that would be great for you).

 

Concierge Lounge: Same as Portofino, empty most times for the same reason (not everyone knows about it and/or uses it at the same time). So you relax, with your significant other, leather sofa, drinking and eating. The two nights there were other couples there, they were in their own sofa/table area, talking among themselves; there is separation, and we did not conversate with anyone else except with the Concierge when we had a couple of questions for him. Again, perfect if you want to be alone.

 

Just wanted to point these out in case you were avoiding it for the social aspect (small talk). It's quite the opposite, and gets you away from the masses!

[pete78]

Enhanced Program for Suite Guests Staying in the following suites*:

Royal Suite, Royal Family Suite, Presidential Family Suite, Owner's Suite, Grand Suite

Oasis Class: Royal Loft Suite, Sky Loft Suite, AquaTheater Suite & Crown Loft Suite

 

*Excludes Junior Suites

 

Priority check-in

Personalized attention throughout the cruise with complimentary Concierge Club service on select ships

Reserved prime seating in the main theater for entertainment shows, where available

Priority tender tickets on select cruises. (Tender service is provided when smaller vessels are necessary to reach shore in locations without docking ports large enough for cruise ships.)

VIP pool deck seating, where available

Full breakfast, lunch and dinner dining room menus available for in-room dining

Private breakfast and lunch seating in specialty restaurants on our Voyager and Freedom Class ships

Mattel® board games available to order for in-room entertainment for the kids

Complimentary luggage valet service

Luxury spa bathrobes for use onboard

Complimentary pressing service on formal night

Priority departure with exclusive suite* departure lounge featuring continental breakfast

 

I should have scanned the list I had. THe above is accurate, but leaves out some things, like the suite-only cocktail party with the captain and the rest of the crew. Also, we had treats almost daily (fruit plates one day, fancy chocolate plate another); we even had a dinner at Chops comped one night (not sure why, but I assume GS status had something to do with it, but obviously this is not a guaranteed perk). Invitations to private events, like wine tastings. Etc...

[stretch44]

Just a few FYIs (in case you want to know).

 

Theater Seating: It's nice to know you have great seats waiting for you so you're not rushing to the theater all the time. A few times we strolled in after dinner with chairs waiting for us, while other folks that were there before us (non suite) were still standing and either watched the show standing up or had to leave, unfortunately.

 

Portofino Breakfast: Most mornings, the restaurant was empty....we had the a table for two at Portofino, eating breakfast, with waiter service, and no one else in the restaurant, with a beautiful view of the Ocean. Not everyone eats breakfast at the same time and not all suite folks know about it or take advantage of the perk, so taken together, that makes the Portofino empty most times. This was one of the highlights of our trip. So romantic, and so nice to be away from the crowds (seems like you like to be away from the groups, so that would be great for you).

 

Concierge Lounge: Same as Portofino, empty most times for the same reason (not everyone knows about it and/or uses it at the same time). So you relax, with your significant other, leather sofa, drinking and eating. The two nights there were other couples there, they were in their own sofa/table area, talking among themselves; there is separation, and we did not conversate with anyone else except with the Concierge when we had a couple of questions for him. Again, perfect if you want to be alone.

 

Just wanted to point these out in case you were avoiding it for the social aspect (small talk). It's quite the opposite, and gets you away from the masses!

 

Once again, thanks for all the info! You've answered a lot of questions I had regarding the perks. Couple more, when tendering did you take the elevator down or simply walk by all the people waiting in line on the stairs? Did you tip the concierge at the end of your cruise or daily? The breakfast at Portofino, did you get your food at Windjammer and take it there? These extra perks is really what sold us to spend the extra money on a suite. Your comments have made me feel like we made the right decision.

[Retired LEO]

Just a few FYIs (in case you want to know).

 

Theater Seating: It's nice to know you have great seats waiting for you so you're not rushing to the theater all the time. A few times we strolled in after dinner with chairs waiting for us, while other folks that were there before us (non suite) were still standing and either watched the show standing up or had to leave, unfortunately.

 

There's usually plenty of good seating. Besides, what's wrong with standing? The shows aren't that long and you get out faster.

 

Portofino Breakfast: Most mornings, the restaurant was empty....we had the a table for two at Portofino, eating breakfast, with waiter service, and no one else in the restaurant, with a beautiful view of the Ocean. Not everyone eats breakfast at the same time and not all suite folks know about it or take advantage of the perk, so taken together, that makes the Portofino empty most times. This was one of the highlights of our trip. So romantic, and so nice to be away from the crowds (seems like you like to be away from the groups, so that would be great for you).

 

This wouldn't interest me. I always order a full breakfast through room service to eat in the cabin or on the balcony. A nice relaxing way to start the day.

 

Concierge Lounge: Same as Portofino, empty most times for the same reason (not everyone knows about it and/or uses it at the same time). So you relax, with your significant other, leather sofa, drinking and eating. The two nights there were other couples there, they were in their own sofa/table area, talking among themselves; there is separation, and we did not conversate with anyone else except with the Concierge when we had a couple of questions for him. Again, perfect if you want to be alone.

 

Again no interest in the CL. I'd much rather be at a bar where the fun is then in some stuffy room. My favorite is the Sky Bar on the ships that have it. Outside with fun people and plenty going on.

 

Just wanted to point these out in case you were avoiding it for the social aspect (small talk). It's quite the opposite, and gets you away from the masses!

 

Whatever floats your boat (Pun intended)

[mmacdcc]

The suite perks sound absolutely wonderful. We had a JS last time, and this time we have the RFS because we're taking our son and DIL as well as her son (he's 12).

 

They're going to be soooo spoiled. And my son will be thrilled to have some time with the crew - he spent 9 yrs in the Navy and he'll be full of arcane engine/power plant questions.

[pete78]

Whatever floats your boat (Pun intended)

 

BTW, we never were in the CL for more than 20-25 minutes, enough to relax a little bit, sit down in a quiet atmosphere, get a couple of drinks, then start at night off with a dinner or theater, then hit up the bars afterwards.

 

Like you said, to each their own. Royal makes these perks available thinking most will enjoy them, and I think most would, like we did! However, there are always outliers, so it's great you're one of them because then you're not missing out on anything.

[pete78]

Once again, thanks for all the info! You've answered a lot of questions I had regarding the perks. Couple more, when tendering did you take the elevator down or simply walk by all the people waiting in line on the stairs? Did you tip the concierge at the end of your cruise or daily? The breakfast at Portofino, did you get your food at Windjammer and take it there? These extra perks is really what sold us to spend the extra money on a suite. Your comments have made me feel like we made the right decision.

 

For tendering: Go down to Deck 1, where it usually is, and find a Royal person (they usually will be right by the elevators) and show them your card and they'll know you have priority (if not, just tell them). Definitely don't fight your way through the crowds. Just find a Royal person, somewhere, and they will handle it!

 

Tip: We tipped the bar tender in the CL a couple of bucks every night because he was the one making our drinks for us, including the drinks to go. At the end, we did give a tip to the main Concierge, in an envelope. I don't think it's required; and the amount is up to you (based on the service you got), if you decide to tip. We gave our Concierge his tip on the last day, where we had a sit down breakfast in a private dining room (again, only for suite guests); that was great too.

 

Portofino: Yes, take your food from the zoo that is the Windjammer (it's pure chaos in there), and bring it to the tranquility that is the Portofino. You should have no problem getting a prime window facing the ocean, and it usually will be quite empty. Very relaxing!! After the first day, the waitress knew us, so she had our waters, OJ in fancy glasses ready for us daily (not the plastic cups from the WJ), and had our silverware ready). She made me a cappuccino a couple of times (at the standard charge), but it was nice to have that waitress service available. After a couple of days, I just went to the CL before breakfast (it's open in the mornings), and used the complimentary beautiful coffee/espresso/cappuccino/hot chocolate machine to make our drinks to go (they have cups and everything for you to take the hot drinks); we then just brought our hot chocolate and cappuccino with us to the Portofino for breakfast; was wonderful!!!

 

VIP Pool: It's hard to explain, but the VIP pool seats that are on the tier are sort of like an oasis from the wild crowds at the pool. Some days the pool deck was jammed with people, kids everywhere, people bumping into each other, and we were just relaxing in our seats. There were always enough seats so that we were either all alone in a row of seats, or had a couple of seats separating us and the next group of suite folks.

 

You will love it!! These perks add an extra touch of tranquility, relaxation and luxury to what otherwise would be just a typical chaotic cruise experience. I think that's the purpose, and Royal has succeeded in that regard!

 

BTW, I've done FOS in an interior room (back in 2007) and now in a GS, and while I enjoyed both experience, the GS trip was way better than the interior room trip, not only because the room was soooo much bigger (huge bathroom, double sink), huge balcony, but equally important were all of these extra perks. One experience, though while very fun, makes you feel as if you're part of a travel factory (just one of many just moving along, and going through the motions of the cruise), while the GS experience brings you closer a true luxury, pampering, extra-attention resort feel travel experience. I will never go back to anything else but a suite!!

[luckyprincess]

Just a few FYIs (in case you want to know).

 

Theater Seating: It's nice to know you have great seats waiting for you so you're not rushing to the theater all the time. A few times we strolled in after dinner with chairs waiting for us, while other folks that were there before us (non suite) were still standing and either watched the show standing up or had to leave, unfortunately.

 

I don't go to the shows - I'm just not really interested in them. Like I said, I'm 20 minutes from the real Broadway and I'd rather see the pro's performing. I don't really like magic shows or jugglers or the like, either. I do like the comedians but I have no idea why you would need to have special seats to hear them.

 

Portofino Breakfast: Most mornings, the restaurant was empty....we had the a table for two at Portofino, eating breakfast, with waiter service, and no one else in the restaurant, with a beautiful view of the Ocean. Not everyone eats breakfast at the same time and not all suite folks know about it or take advantage of the perk, so taken together, that makes the Portofino empty most times. This was one of the highlights of our trip. So romantic, and so nice to be away from the crowds (seems like you like to be away from the groups, so that would be great for you).

 

I just cannot imagine not ordering breakfast and having it on my balcony with my honey. A window view in the restaurant just doesn't hold a candle to the romance of our balcony. Plus, I hate the smell of undercooked eggs and it would make me wrinkle my nose to have to smell it all around :p We want to be away from ALL the groups, lol - at least til after my coffee! Besides, the balcony is more private..;)

 

Concierge Lounge: Same as Portofino, empty most times for the same reason (not everyone knows about it and/or uses it at the same time). So you relax, with your significant other, leather sofa, drinking and eating. The two nights there were other couples there, they were in their own sofa/table area, talking among themselves; there is separation, and we did not conversate with anyone else except with the Concierge when we had a couple of questions for him. Again, perfect if you want to be alone.

 

Ugh. I believe you that it was empty on your sailing, but I just can't imagine walking in to down my free drinks and having the rest of the folks streaming in trying to tie one on before they have to pay! :D Alcohol just isn't that important to me. I know lots of people find it really important to their cruise (hence all of the smuggling threads) but the lure of free booze doesn't do much for me - my liver thanks me for that! lol

 

Just wanted to point these out in case you were avoiding it for the social aspect (small talk). It's quite the opposite, and gets you away from the masses!

 

Thanks for the follow up. I actually like the masses usually, though. I just don't see the need to force myself to small talk on vacay - which is why we get a table for two! As I said, I looked over the list and I just can't find anything that would make me spend more. I guess I'm lucky, huh? Now, if the perks were that you get free jewelry (no, the gold seapass card doesn't count! lol) a private sports deck, included excursions and my own kayak, well then - sign me up! I will say, though, that the Epic really intrigued me and when I read the suite perks on THAT line (can't recall it right now) I was much more wowed! I guess I feel that why would I pay more for services I won't use? I wish you could tailor your own cruise - that would be way worth it!!

I will say that I don't get the folks that cruise mass market lines but want to feel like they are receiving a luxury product. Going to the front of a line to get in a boat and go ashore doesn't make you look like Rockafeller, lol! I've never had a problem getting on a tender - but I go at times that aren't crowded, I suppose. I just finished reading one of your posts about that - I do know that I wouldn't gloat - that is a very classless act, in my opinion - I really hope you didn't portray yourself that way because you seem pleasant enough on this board....:confused:

[stretch44]

Thanks for the follow up. I actually like the masses usually, though. I just don't see the need to force myself to small talk on vacay - which is why we get a table for two! As I said, I looked over the list and I just can't find anything that would make me spend more. I guess I'm lucky, huh? Now, if the perks were that you get free jewelry (no, the gold seapass card doesn't count! lol) a private sports deck, included excursions and my own kayak, well then - sign me up! I will say, though, that the Epic really intrigued me and when I read the suite perks on THAT line (can't recall it right now) I was much more wowed! I guess I feel that why would I pay more for services I won't use? I wish you could tailor your own cruise - that would be way worth it!!

I will say that I don't get the folks that cruise mass market lines but want to feel like they are receiving a luxury product. Going to the front of a line to get in a boat and go ashore doesn't make you look like Rockafeller, lol! I've never had a problem getting on a tender - but I go at times that aren't crowded, I suppose. I just finished reading one of your posts about that - I do know that I wouldn't gloat - that is a very classless act, in my opinion - I really hope you didn't portray yourself that way because you seem pleasant enough on this board....:confused:

 

It's not about trying "be better than everyone else" or looking like a Rockafeller. It's about less stress and a little more luxury from a mass market cruise line which features activities my kids will love. You just stated you were interested in NCL's Epic and the perks they had there. Are any of the perks on the Epic ones you mentioned here that you would like (sports deck, kayak, jewelry)?