Pinnacle Free cruise seems a RipOff

[OTownNick]

Maybe one day the Diamond and up will simply get free drink packages.

[Dave85]

Maybe one day the Diamond and up will simply get free drink packages.

 

That would be amazing and I'd be thrilled... but it'll never happen. Alcohol revenue is just too big of a deal for the line and they'd lose a ton of it giving Ds and up a free beverage package. Besides, if Ds are currently happy with a lounge where they can get a few free drinks before dinner, which costs RCI very little, I can't see them upping the ante to give us free drinks all day ;)...

 

But hey, RCI, if you're thinking about it... by all means, go for it! :D

[Dave85]

The BOGO was good in the beginning (last May), but it almost looks like it will become a regular pricing mechanism to keep anyone from combining any kind of specials or loyalty discounts. Not only is it confusing, but it gives much less of an actual benefit (balcony discount) for being in a higher tier of C & A than for being a novice RCL cruiser.

 

If nothing else, as a consumer, I find the entire industry's (not just RCI's) new promotions game kind of irritating at this point. It makes apple to apple comparisons much more difficult and introduces a whole new level of complexity when you're constantly reading fine print "terms and conditions" to try and figure out what can be combined with what and when.

 

Unfortunately, seeing as these promotions are proliferating throughout the industry I don't think they'll be going away anytime soon unless they stop driving books, which I think they are. Admittedly, certain promotions work. I've been waiting to book an NCL Escape cruise and will probably go ahead and do it now during their "Freestyle Choice" promotion where DW and I can get a free ultimate beverage package (a major value for us). I guess I'm now part of the problem. :p

[OTownNick]

That would be amazing and I'd be thrilled... but it'll never happen. Alcohol revenue is just too big of a deal for the line and they'd lose a ton of it giving Ds and up a free beverage package. Besides, if Ds are currently happy with a lounge where they can get a few free drinks before dinner, which costs RCI very little, I can't see them upping the ante to give us free drinks all day ;)...

 

But hey, RCI, if you're thinking about it... by all means, go for it! :D

 

Maybe they can make it where we get a drink package valid only from 5-8:30pm. If they're smart enough to limit us to 3 now in other lounges (IF the bartender swipes our card), they can give us more during that time frame.

[The Big Booper]

Re : 1099-Misc.

 

DON'T GIVE THEM ANY IDEAS !!!:eek:

 

4 weeks to tax season. The ACA ramifications are about to hit the fan. Wooiieee.

[gkbiiii]

Re : 1099-Misc.

 

DON'T GIVE THEM ANY IDEAS !!!:eek:

 

4 weeks to tax season. The ACA ramifications are about to hit the fan. Wooiieee.

 

 

The comped cruise benefit can't be taxed being that it is a return of premium/fare paid: in many ways a percentage rebate on cumulative monies spent. Just like casino trips/comps/cash/free play/etc. can't be taxed either. The value of the $2,600 cruise, is nowhere near the $150,000++ cost to become Pinnacle.

Edited January 3, 2015 by gkbiiii

[yolanda1]

The "Loyal to Royal" thing has never really made sense to me. The so called perks never have been, and never will be, of any great value. At the end of the day, whether you are a first or second time cruiser, or you are on your 200th cruise, you are simply a number, revenue, a customer. There really is no such thing as a free lunch - ever.

 

As long as you enjoy your cruises, feel whatever you pay is worth it, and you get what you need, that's great. If not, look at the competition and become their customer too. You might be pleasantly surprised at what they offer :D

[HiCSailor]

I have found brand loyalty rewarding, in everything from airlines to hotels to hardware stores, but discussions like this have me wondering if loyalty in cruise lines is worth it. Love to hear your views.

 

In my view, the cruise lines have a quite a bit of overlap in the areas that matter to me: fun family vacations at a reasonable price. I chose Royal in part because of the good things I had read about its loyalty program relative to others. I get the sense that, despite the complaints here, it may still be the best, but...

 

... has anyone posted a comparison of the various cruise loyalty programs? [emoji408]

 

As an afterthought, are there any TA loyalty programs that might help the line hopper gain benefits? (I know the answers to this one might have to be yes or no only) [emoji61]

[travelgoddess1]

Karen, any Ox being gored doesn't sound good. :)

 

Lisa and I are becoming D+ next cruise and doubt we will become Pinnacle. I do wish that they gave Pinnacles an easier process to book their well deserved "free" cruise.

 

Hope to see you both one day.

Andrew

 

Thanks, Andrew, we look forward to sailing with you and Lisa -- congratulations on D+. :D

[travelgoddess1]

Aahh......yes....well this whole thing started back when they kicked the Diamonds out of the Concierge lounge after those Diamond members had been rewarded by Royal Caribbean for their loyalty.

 

At that time there were many people who were D+ who did not stand up for the Diamonds and were secretly happy they were being kicked out. Now Royal is on the verge of kicking the D+ out of the CL's and are being accused of not treating Pinnacle's right in this instance of a free cruise. I hope those D+ and Pinnacles affected now were sympathetic to the plight of the Diamonds C & A downgrade back then. If not, then some will be getting their just deserts.

 

And for clarification, I was Diamond back when the Diamonds were kicked out of the CL's and I am D+ now. But I care little for the trappings of the CL and DL's anymore and just buy the drink package now.

 

Anyone who didn't feel a chill when the D's were kicked out of the CL was short-sighted. I can't imagine why you would think we were all happy to see D's leave. It was, at the very least, a preview of coming attractions. BTW, I have never been asked by anyone what I thought about it, so I don't know where you got the idea we were all happy to see you go. :confused: "Secretly happy" is hard to define, isn't it?

 

BTW, I have always believed in being fair, even though the world does not work that way. What goes around comes around. :eek:

Edited January 3, 2015 by travelgoddess1

[DirtyDawg]

[quote name='Dave85']That would be amazing and I'd be thrilled... but it'll never happen. Alcohol revenue is just too big of a deal for the line and they'd lose a ton of it giving Ds and up a free beverage package. Besides, if Ds are currently happy with a lounge where they can get a few free drinks before dinner, which costs RCI very little, I can't see them upping the ante to give us free drinks all day ;)...

But hey, RCI, if you're thinking about it... by all means, go for it! :D[/QUOTE]

Dave, that would be very, very costly to RCL. I've seen you D+ members stumbling out of the that lounge after those nightly events. Not only would free drinks all day wipe out RCL's bottom line completely but it would turn all those elegant Royal ships into ...............................................

FUN SHIPS :eek:

I can just see all those new D+ member events that would come with D+ free all day drinks:

Belly flop contents,
Hairy chest contests,
Wet t-shirt contests,
Hip replacement scar contests.

OH, THE HUMANITY! :eek: Edited January 3, 2015 by DirtyDawg

[Dave85]

[quote name='DirtyDawg']Dave, that would be very, very costly to RCL. I've seen you D+ members stumbling out of the that lounge after those nightly events. Not only would free drinks all day wipe out RCL's bottom line completely but it would turn all those elegant Royal ships into ...............................................

FUN SHIPS :eek:

I can just see all those new D+ member events that would come with D+ free all day drinks:

Belly flop contents,
Hairy chest contests,
Wet t-shirt contests,
Hip replacement scar contests.

OH, THE HUMANITY! :eek:[/QUOTE]


LOL the HORROR!!!!!!


Sent from my iPhone using Cruise Critic Forums mobile app

[grand isle joe]

.......then they would have to expand the morgue for all the alcohol poisoning that would occur......."hey I got to get my money's worth"........

[travelgoddess1]

Can anyone else agree that we have reached the end of the road for this particular thread?

[cruisenfever]

[quote name='travelgoddess1']Can anyone else agree that we have reached the end of the road for this particular thread?[/quote]
Absolutely agree.

[Clarea]

[quote name='travelgoddess1']Can anyone else agree that we have reached the end of the road for this particular thread?[/quote]
But what about the robes?;)

[Retired LEO]

[quote name='travelgoddess1']Can anyone else agree that we have reached the end of the road for this particular thread?[/quote]

It's still in low gear.

[CptSticky]

[quote name='travelgoddess1']Can anyone else agree that we have reached the end of the road for this particular thread?[/quote]
Wait 2 weeks until after I have taken mine and then I will admit a lack of interest:p

[Zou Bisou Bisou]

[quote name='travelgoddess1']Anyone who didn't feel a chill when the D's were kicked out of the CL was short-sighted. I can't imagine why you would think we were all happy to see D's leave. It was, at the very least, a preview of coming attractions. BTW, I have never been asked by anyone what I thought about it, so I don't know where you got the idea we were all happy to see you go. :confused: "Secretly happy" is hard to define, isn't it?

BTW, I have always believed in being fair, even though the world does not work that way. What goes around comes around. :eek:[/QUOTE]

Please re-read my post. I did not say you were all happy. Where did I get the idea? Just research some of the old threads on CC from the time and there were people stating they were D+ and happy to see the lounge cleared of so many people so there would be more room for Suite Guests and D+. Some even stated they would email/call Royal Caribbean and let them know they were happy about the change. It is there for anyone to read.

I really don't understand why you are confused. My post was not about YOU. You seem to be taking it personally. My mistake might have been in saying they were "secretly happy", when many were in fact posting they were happy.

[Coralc]

You sound (in writing) a little bitter about it Zou. My opinion then as it is now, is that it is their program and they can change it as they wish. We will either adapt, or try to work with what they are offering, or find another cruise line or vacation option.

If we decide that it is that important to dine at Coastal Kitchen, then I guess we will book a Grand Suite on Oasis.

It's a loyalty program, if they want to offer stuff for our cruise vacations then I will take it. If it is something they have announced that I am entitled to as a member of said loyalty program, then I will ask about receiving it, and work within the parameters of the offer to receive it.

[critterchick]

[quote name='travelgoddess1']Can anyone else agree that we have reached the end of the road for this particular thread?[/QUOTE]

No, because I just got back from a Princess cruise.:p

Here are my thoughts: if RCI is going to cut back on the free cruise by making it so difficult for many to book one (we are about to experience that "pleasure"), then they should send out a letter to each and every person affected by those changes (as they should have done when Diamonds were booted from the CL). Instead we get to find out about it anecdotally and then grouse about it here, then occasionally write a letter to command in the hopes that things will at least be simplified. I'll write mine after I excoriate the Passenger Services department on Crown Princess for their treatment of a new acquaintance of ours.

I have been an American Airlines frequent flyer since before they created the Aadvantage program, and they are very good about keeping me informed of changes, both good and bad. It's amusing in a sick way to see them try to spin some of the bad, but at least I know what changes are coming and when it's going to happen. RCI's approach seems to be to hope that we won't notice and only respond once they get some magical number of complaints. I do hope that Mr. Bayley's reputation for customer service is real and continues. It would be a welcome change. Edited January 4, 2015 by critterchick

[Zou Bisou Bisou]

[quote name='Coralc']You sound (in writing) a little bitter about it Zou. My opinion then as it is now, is that it is their program and they can change it as they wish. We will either adapt, or try to work with what they are offering, or find another cruise line or vacation option.

If we decide that it is that important to dine at Coastal Kitchen, then I guess we will book a Grand Suite on Oasis.

It's a loyalty program, if they want to offer stuff for our cruise vacations then I will take it. If it is something they have announced that I am entitled to as a member of said loyalty program, then I will ask about receiving it, and work within the parameters of the offer to receive it.[/QUOTE]

No, not bitter at all. I became D+ myself soon after the Diamonds lost access. As I stated in a prior post on this thread the CL and DL's don't really interest me anymore. I purchase the drink package and only drink coffee at breakfast so I rarely enter the CL/DL anymore.

My original point was that posters like cruisenfever (a pinnacle) were upset about the way the pins were being treated with regard to the free cruises for pins. I was just wondering whether those same people were concerned when the D's were downgraded out of the CL.

If I want an upgrade on a cruise I will purchase it. I don't expect to get anything for free. If I get something extra, great. If not, no problem.

[Zou Bisou Bisou]

[quote name='padrek']I recently made Pinnacle after "donating" $150K+ to RCI and received my $2400 "Free" 7 day cruise certificate. Then I tried to use it for a seven day "free" cruise, only to be told that the $2400 is deducted from some "standard" rate only shown on the reservationists computer. It matters not that the website shows, for example, a price at/near $2400, which thus should qualify for a free cruise- THEIR standard rate the reservationist says shows a rate at least twice what the web is showing - so deduct my $2400 from their "secret" rate and the cruise will COST me $1000 - about what I can buy it on the web for. Confusing - you bet. Suffice it to say that reservationist could not find me a cruise between now and July1st which would cost me less than $850 out of pocket - about the same as I could buy the trip on the web today.
These are the NEW rules fostered I assume by the same RCI bean counters who made the Future Cruise Credit program almost worthless some months ago by eliminating all its attractive features.
They seem to work so hard to drive passengers away for the sake of short term gain.[/QUOTE]

Some want to end this thread. I think you have a legitimate gripe. Even though the Pinnacles are a Minority group, they deserve some respect. I hope other C & A members stand up for you all. In the past this was not always the case.

Otherwise, expect more cuts at all levels. The Pins would be an easy group to cut benefits...they have few members and their squeaky wheels would not be very loud.

Not anything I would like to see happen...but it probably will happen anyway.

[CptSticky]

[quote name='Zou Bisou Bisou']Some want to end this thread. I think you have a legitimate gripe. Even though the Pinnacles are a Minority group, they deserve some respect. I hope other C & A members stand up for you all. In the past this was not always the case.

Otherwise, expect more cuts at all levels. The Pins would be an easy group to cut benefits...they have few members and their squeaky wheels would not be very loud.

Not anything I would like to see happen...but it probably will happen anyway.[/quote]
Yes it would be an easy group to cut. It's also a group that has demonstrated it's willingness to spend large amounts of money on cruising over the years. I'm not in Royal's corporate office so I don't know what they are thinking, but if it was me I don't think I would single out a group that spends money. Yes I've heard all the stories of how P's only sail inside and never spend but really how many others have spend between $150K and $250K on one cruise line?

[Zou Bisou Bisou]

[quote name='CptSticky']Yes it would be an easy group to cut. It's also a group that has demonstrated it's willingness to spend large amounts of money on cruising over the years. I'm not in Royal's corporate office so I don't know what they are thinking, but if it was me I don't think I would single out a group that spends money. Yes I've heard all the stories of how P's only sail inside and never spend but really how many others have spend between $150K and $250K on one cruise line?[/QUOTE]

I have easily spent that for me and my family members over the years with Royal Caribbean and I am only D+ with @ 300 cruise points. I don't think I am extraordinary in that respect. Many Pins earned their status spending much less.