CC Elite just back from first RCL cruise - some comparisons

[squidward]

This loyal Celebrity cruiser (10+ cruises) just got back from his first RCL cruise. In a nutshell, Celebrity could learn a thing or two about how to treat high-tier and suite guests.

 

We were granted Diamond status on RCL and stayed in a suite, and wow, what an amazing experience. While there is no butler, you have access to a Concierge who can take care of just about everything that guest relations can do, all from the comfort of the private concierge lounge.

 

Actually, there were 2 private lounges on Freedom of the Seas. One for suites, and one for Diamonds. Both offered free cocktails and hot/cold appetizers every night from 6:00-8:30. Yes, you could get free cocktails during cocktail hour!

 

The Diamond lounge was a beautiful space, located on the top deck with a great view out of floor to ceiling windows. The service was just out of this world.

 

Another great perk: They open one of the specialty restaurants for Diamonds for breakfast, with waiter service and freshly made eggs. You could also bring your food from the buffet during lunch and sit in the specialty restaurant, which was a nice way to enjoy a quiet lunch.

 

Suite guests had access to a private beach at Labadee, with a grilled NY strip steak lunch, which was wonderful. I wish Celebrity would stop there, it is really an amazing island with lots to see and do.

 

They had a special breakfast in the main dining room on the last sea day, where each table was joined by an officer. There were other events that we didn't make it to, but it just seemed as though they showered us with so much more attention and perks than on Celebrity.

 

Ironic that I needed to try RCL in order to feel like a celebrity!

 

We still prefer Celebrity for the sophisticated style and superior selection of food. The food on Freedom was great, but very "American" and there seemed to be less variety. Celebrity cuisine is more upscale and European, I think, and there is definitely more to choose from.

 

Obviously RCL is better for families with kids, given the incredible variety of venues and activities geared to the younger set. The service is a bit less formal, which probably makes kids more comfortable, but we prefer the elegance of Celebrity.

 

In the suite department, we preferred the open layout and larger bathroom of the Grand Suite to the Celebrity Suite, which are comparable in overall size and cost. But we prefer the room service on Celebrity suites, which are delivered by the butler and set up beautifully. For some reason, I couldn't get a room service menu on Freedom (other than the breakfast card) and the menu that was in the suite services binder was "wrong."

 

The entertainment system in the Celebrity Suite on Equinox was much better, with a giant TV and that great interactive system. There was only a normal-sized TV on Freedom, and no interactive system.

 

The main restaurant experience was very similar, with outstanding service on both ships. However, as stated above, we were underwhelmed by the selection on Freedom compared to Celebrity.

 

Both lines excel in terms of crowd control. On Freedom, there were always plenty of open spaces, and it never felt crowded, just like on all of the Celebrity ships we sailed on.

 

Would we sail on RCL again? Definitely - but we'd probably stick to Freedom class, which has a lot more amenities and I think are just the right size. Oasis class ships are just too big and impersonal for us, but I can certainly understand their appeal.

 

Happy to answer any questions!

 

:)

[portofrome]

Thanks for your comparisons.

[6MonthsHere6MonthsThere]

Thanks for the post, gives some people who have never cruised both lines something to compare by.

Just a little puzzled though by one observation you made, you stated this was your first RCL cruise but you ended in saying that the Oasis class ships are too big and impersonal for you, how did you came to that conclusion if the Freedom was your first RCL cruise, just curious!!!

[bhughey]

We are diamond on RCI, but find the elite perks far better!

 

You mentioned that "you can get free drinks during cocktail hour"! Well, the same is true on X!

 

Also... keep in mind, that the Freedom and Oasis class ships are the only class that offer a DIAMOND LOUNGE. On all other ships, the diamond event is held each night in specific area/venue and offers only comp. wine and champagne (no snacks).

[squidward]

Thanks for the post, gives some people who have never cruised both lines something to compare by.

Just a little puzzled though by one observation you made, you stated this was your first RCL cruise but you ended in saying that the Oasis class ships are too big and impersonal for you, how did you came to that conclusion if the Freedom was your first RCL cruise, just curious!!!

 

That's a fair point. I'm basing my opinion on reviews that I have read and talking to other passengers who have sailed on Oasis class ships. Then again, I used to think that Freedom class ships were "too big," so I have a feeling as ships keep getting bigger my opinion might change again!:D

[squidward]

We are diamond on RCI, but find the elite perks far better!

 

You mentioned that "you can get free drinks during cocktail hour"! Well, the same is true on X!

 

Also... keep in mind, that the Freedom and Oasis class ships are the only class that offer a DIAMOND LOUNGE. On all other ships, the diamond event is held each night in specific area/venue and offers only comp. wine and champagne (no snacks).

 

Last February on Equinox, the Elite cocktail hour was 4:00-6:00 PM, which is too early for us, since we prefer second seating. I suppose I could start drinking at 4:00, but I probably wouldn't make it to dinner!:D

 

Did they change the times of the Elite cocktails? That would be a great thing!

[uncle-b]

The elite hour is now 5-7. You can go for happy hour and then to the show and then to dinner. It works well.

[ozark74]

Did you notice if RCCL has the perks for booking future cruises o/b like Celebrity does? The reduced deposit and o/b credits.

Thanks

[Gabrielle R.]

How did you get the Diamond perk on RCCL? I've sailed RCCL three times, X once, Princess 5 . You can kind of get pulled in by perks,,, always wanted to get perks on other lines..... So wondered how it workd. Thanks if you or anyone can explain how you get the perks!

Gabrielle

[Gonzo70]

Did you notice if RCCL has the perks for booking future cruises o/b like Celebrity does? The reduced deposit and o/b credits.

Thanks

 

Both RCI and Celebrity have similar perks for booking a future cruise while on board a cruise.

[Gonzo70]

How did you get the Diamond perk on RCCL? I've sailed RCCL three times, X once, Princess 5 .

Gabrielle

 

If you have only sailed three times on RCI, you would not be diamond. They have several different levels within their loyalty program (Crown & Anchor Society). After completing a single RCI cruise you qualify at their starter level - Gold. Other levels include Emerald, Platinum, Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle. The perks get better and better with each level. The more nights you spend on an RCI trip, the more credits you earn towards moving up (and if you stay in a suite you earn credits at a faster pace). If you have not yet joined Crown & Anchor, do so (it is free to join) and they should be able to give you "credit" for the cruises you have already completed. The phone number is on RCI's website.

 

Three of the RCCL brands (RCI, Celebrity and Azamara) give reciprocal benefits once you reach a certain level in the loyalty program. For example if you achieve diamond status with RCI's Crown & Anchor Society, you'd be recognized at the equivalent level in Celebrity's Captain's Club and visa versa. However you cannot "add" credits across the different brands (i.e. you accrue points seprately with RCI, Celebrity and Azamara).

[cruise47]

What does elite status equates to in the RCI loyalty program system ?

[cruising teacher]

What does elite status equates to in the RCI loyalty program system ?

 

As an Elite with more than 70 cruise credits, I am disappointed that if I were to book on RCL I would only go over as a Diamond. Recently booked 3 families on a Celebrity cruise. Would have liked to try RCL because I know that my grandchildren would have enjoyed it. Celebrity spoils me with their Elite program and I refuse to accept less.

[Guest maddycat]

What does elite status equates to in the RCI loyalty program system ?

 

If you're Elite on Celebrity then you would get Diamond benefits on RCI.

[cruisegal415]

If you have only sailed three times on RCI, you would not be diamond. They have several different levels within their loyalty program (Crown & Anchor Society). After completing a single RCI cruise you qualify at their starter level - Gold. Other levels include Emerald, Platinum, Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle. The perks get better and better with each level. The more nights you spend on an RCI trip, the more credits you earn towards moving up (and if you stay in a suite you earn credits at a faster pace). If you have not yet joined Crown & Anchor, do so (it is free to join) and they should be able to give you "credit" for the cruises you have already completed. The phone number is on RCI's website.

 

Three of the RCCL brands (RCI, Celebrity and Azamara) give reciprocal benefits once you reach a certain level in the loyalty program. For example if you achieve diamond status with RCI's Crown & Anchor Society, you'd be recognized at the equivalent level in Celebrity's Captain's Club and visa versa. However you cannot "add" credits across the different brands (i.e. you accrue points seprately with RCI, Celebrity and Azamara).

So, trips made on RCCL won't count towards upping your status on X and vice versa? But if you reach a certain level on RCCL, that transfers? I've been on 2 RCCL cruises, probably will book more, but am willing and interested in trying Celebrity. Should I try to obtain a higher status on RCCL first? Or run the two simultaneously?

[tserface]

We like Celebrity better than RCCL, but we went on one final RCCL cruise just to make Diamond level so we could have Elite on Celebrity. I think Celebrity is blowing it by not allowing people to combine them since there are likely lots of people like us (had sailed RCCL in the past, but would prefer X), but at least we are now Diamond/Elite on both even though we've only been on 2 X cruises. We will likely go X most of the time from now on since the next level is way beyond what we'll likely reach in our lifetime anyway :rolleyes:

 

Tom

 

So, trips made on RCCL won't count towards upping your status on X and vice versa? But if you reach a certain level on RCCL, that transfers? I've been on 2 RCCL cruises, probably will book more, but am willing and interested in trying Celebrity. Should I try to obtain a higher status on RCCL first? Or run the two simultaneously?

[bellybutton530]

I am Elite/Diamond, and recently took a VOTS cruise .

 

I liked the coupon book that RCI offered.

I liked the fact that the RCI cruise card has your status and diding info on it.

I liked that RCI offered Diamonds and above the opportunity to make calls from the cabin for $2.00 per minute.

 

I did not like the smoking policy; the casino smelled like a dirty ashtray.

I did not like that you couldn't bring sodas and water onboard.

I did not like the fact that there was no attempt made to enforce a dress code on formal/dressy nights.

[RMSeadog]

So, trips made on RCCL won't count towards upping your status on X and vice versa? But if you reach a certain level on RCCL, that transfers? I've been on 2 RCCL cruises, probably will book more, but am willing and interested in trying Celebrity. Should I try to obtain a higher status on RCCL first? Or run the two simultaneously?

 

The reciprocation begins at the Platinum/Select level. To abtain Platinum/Select status one must complete five cruises with either company, keep in mind cruises with different companies can not be combined. ~ Ric

 

[bajathree]

This loyal Celebrity cruiser (10+ cruises) just got back from his first RCL cruise. In a nutshell, Celebrity could learn a thing or two about how to treat high-tier and suite guests.

 

We were granted Diamond status on RCL and stayed in a suite, and wow, what an amazing experience. While there is no butler, you have access to a Concierge who can take care of just about everything that guest relations can do, all from the comfort of the private concierge lounge.

 

Actually, there were 2 private lounges on Freedom of the Seas. One for suites, and one for Diamonds. Both offered free cocktails and hot/cold appetizers every night from 6:00-8:30. Yes, you could get free cocktails during cocktail hour!

 

The Diamond lounge was a beautiful space, located on the top deck with a great view out of floor to ceiling windows. The service was just out of this world.

 

Another great perk: They open one of the specialty restaurants for Diamonds for breakfast, with waiter service and freshly made eggs. You could also bring your food from the buffet during lunch and sit in the specialty restaurant, which was a nice way to enjoy a quiet lunch.

 

Suite guests had access to a private beach at Labadee, with a grilled NY strip steak lunch, which was wonderful. I wish Celebrity would stop there, it is really an amazing island with lots to see and do.

 

They had a special breakfast in the main dining room on the last sea day, where each table was joined by an officer. There were other events that we didn't make it to, but it just seemed as though they showered us with so much more attention and perks than on Celebrity.

 

Ironic that I needed to try RCL in order to feel like a celebrity!

 

We still prefer Celebrity for the sophisticated style and superior selection of food. The food on Freedom was great, but very "American" and there seemed to be less variety. Celebrity cuisine is more upscale and European, I think, and there is definitely more to choose from.

 

Obviously RCL is better for families with kids, given the incredible variety of venues and activities geared to the younger set. The service is a bit less formal, which probably makes kids more comfortable, but we prefer the elegance of Celebrity.

 

In the suite department, we preferred the open layout and larger bathroom of the Grand Suite to the Celebrity Suite, which are comparable in overall size and cost. But we prefer the room service on Celebrity suites, which are delivered by the butler and set up beautifully. For some reason, I couldn't get a room service menu on Freedom (other than the breakfast card) and the menu that was in the suite services binder was "wrong."

 

The entertainment system in the Celebrity Suite on Equinox was much better, with a giant TV and that great interactive system. There was only a normal-sized TV on Freedom, and no interactive system.

 

The main restaurant experience was very similar, with outstanding service on both ships. However, as stated above, we were underwhelmed by the selection on Freedom compared to Celebrity.

 

Both lines excel in terms of crowd control. On Freedom, there were always plenty of open spaces, and it never felt crowded, just like on all of the Celebrity ships we sailed on.

 

Would we sail on RCL again? Definitely - but we'd probably stick to Freedom class, which has a lot more amenities and I think are just the right size. Oasis class ships are just too big and impersonal for us, but I can certainly understand their appeal.

 

Happy to answer any questions!

 

:)

 

 

Very nice comparison:) I am Diamond Plus on Royal which makes me Elite on X...I agree that the use of the D lounges on Freedom class and above (also being added to more ships) is nicer that what is offered on X. I just wanted to point out something you may want to consider in the future as far as Oasis Class if you book suites. The concierge lounge on Oasis is absolutely amazing...2 story with a wall of glass viewing the Boardwalk, Aquatheater and aft wake....they even have 2 concierges. Also they serve cook to order Breakfast as well as lunch...not only that but on Oasis class they also serve free Champagne, wine, beer and sodas in the CL during lunch hours 12-3 as well as free drinks and snacks in the evening from 5:30-8:30....HUGE plus for sailing Oasis Class.

[Gonzo70]

So, trips made on RCCL won't count towards upping your status on X and vice versa? But if you reach a certain level on RCCL, that transfers? I've been on 2 RCCL cruises, probably will book more, but am willing and interested in trying Celebrity. Should I try to obtain a higher status on RCCL first? Or run the two simultaneously?

 

RCCL is the parent corporation of five cruise lines (RCI, Celebrity, Azamara and a couple of European lines). You are correct that cruises on RCI do not count towards your status on X and vice versa. If you want to try Celebrity, go for it - I would not wait to try them because of loyalty program perks. Maybe if you were one cruise away from Diamond on RCI it might be worth while to cruise once more with RCI before X, but otherwise if it were me I would cruise on the line I wanted to rather than base my decision on loyalty program perks.

[Guest maddycat]

I am Elite/Diamond, and recently took a VOTS cruise .

 

I liked the coupon book that RCI offered.

I liked the fact that the RCI cruise card has your status and diding info on it.

I liked that RCI offered Diamonds and above the opportunity to make calls from the cabin for $2.00 per minute.

 

I did not like the smoking policy; the casino smelled like a dirty ashtray. I agree.

I did not like that you couldn't bring sodas and water onboard. I always bring water on board the Explorer.

I did not like the fact that there was no attempt made to enforce a dress code on formal/dressy nights. I'm happy that RCI treats the suggested dress code as just that, a suggestion.

 

We live in NJ. For the past 5 years we have only cruised out of Cape Liberty in Bayonne, NJ. We no longer want to fly. We've sailed on the Explorer and the Summit. In the fall we will sail on the Silhouette.

 

RCI's nightly diamond event is from 5 or 5:30 to 8:30. Much longer than Celebrity's. The hours please both those with main seating and late seating dinner. On the Explorer, it's usually held in the 19th Hole, on deck 14. It's a nice bar with great sea views. Guests are allowed to attend the diamond event in shorts or jeans. Most come dressed for dinner.

 

I don't like that on Celebrity the repeaters parties are usually in the morning. On RCI they are in the evening. I don't want to drink in the morning and I definitely do not want to change out of shorts or jeans to attend a party that is supposed to be thanking me for my patronage. That's another thing that doesn't make sense. On Celebrity you can wear jeans to the MDR but jeans are not allowed in a repeaters party.

 

I love the Explorer's friendly, accommodating crew. I have found the service to be far superior to that of the Summit. For example, in the buffet on the Explorer there are always several managers/head waiters present to make sure that everything is running smoothly. Tables are cleaned immediately. If the waiters are busy, the managers/head waiters will clean the tables. On the Summit waiters will be standing around talking to each other while tables are in need of cleaning. In the buffet on the Explore waiters will serve you drinks. On the Summit you must server yourself.

[We're The Groupnors]

The reciprocation begins at the Platinum/Select level. To abtain Platinum/Select status one must complete five cruises with either company, keep in mind cruises with different companies can not be combined. ~ Ric

 

 

That's five points to gain Select status on X, not necessarily five cruises. On X you can get multiple points on one cruise for longer sailings (14 days or more), or by booking Concierge Class or higher cabins.

[HRH SR]

Hi there Squidward ,

Will you be joining the Celebrity Cruise on 02/11/12 on Constellation ? Looks like there are a few from the February 2010 coming along .

 

G

[jt1120]

A very insightful review, and I can agree with 98% of what the OP stated. Our recent cruise aboard the Oasis OTS as Diamond level members was loaded with nice perks, and =X= should give serious attention to expanding their service to Elite members in a similar fashion.

 

I must, however, disagree with the OP's thought that =X= should stop at Labadee. If I had the choice between a stop at another port or at Labadee, I'd choose another port. Actually, during our Oasis cruise, it stopped at Labadee but we chose to stay on board. To me, Labadee is just a pure money maker for the cruiseline, and I'm paying enough as it is. Since I live near the Gulf in FLA I don't need a beach stop, and though they offer a bunch of things to do, I'd rather stop at a real port, not a Disney-like stop owned by the line. If they offered some of the fun stuff for free, I'd be more apt to visit Labadee.

 

I know that's an unpopular opinion, but that's how I feel. Let the flames begin, I'm ready.

[Amagamma]

We gained our Elite status on Celebrity, and took a few cruises on RC at Diamond status. RC used to have some great perks for Diamond, until they added Diamond +. They stripped away some of our benefits and gave them to only Diamond +. We then went back to Celebrity and haven't been back to RC since. The last three cruises have been on Solstice class ships and all cocktail hours were in the spacious "Sky" Lounge with beautiful views, free flowing cocktails and appetizers. We also have use of a Concierge. We also have a brunch on sea day in the dining room. And I've been to Labadee on Solstice. Our Captains Club get together was in the afternoon on all three ships, our Elite get together with Sr. Officers was in the evening. We have always received much better service on Celebrity than RC. I guess everyone views things differently, but just wanted to let you know what benefits we received on Celebrity.