New Suite Class amenities not for all

[CruisersTimesThree]

Just putting this info out there for anyone who is thinking of booking a high-end suite when the new suite perks go into effect.

I recently booked a Caribbean cruise as a Christmas present surprise for my family on the Anthem of the Seas. It is for Feb. of 2017 and I booked a Grand Loft Suite.

When we sail, the new "Royal Suite Class" will be in effect, but I was getting conflicting answers from the agents I spoke with as to who exactly is entitled to the perks and benefits included.

A grand loft suite is under the Star Class which in turn entitles you to pretty much an all-inclusive vacation (drink packages, speciality restaurants, gratuities, all included)

But wait...the RCCL concierge desk contacted me this weekend (and almost blew my surprise, luckily my DH and DS weren't home!) to speak about the cruise.

My #1 question was if ALL those sailing in a specific cabin are entitled to the new suite perks and benefits. I was told a pretty definite NO! Only the first two get it all, the third and in some cases fourth in the cabin have to pay for everything that is included in the suite perks.

I'm sorry, but I think that is ridiculous for the amount of money being paid for a high-end suite!

Also, no where in their brochure or online literature about the new perks does it state that it's only for the first two passengers. When I mentioned this to the concierge, the answer I was given was that "it didn't say either way" :confused:

They should take a cue from Celebrity where everyone in the cabin receives all that is offered in their suite program.

I am now considering cancelling this cruise on principal and looking for something on Celebrity.

[Esmerelda]

I'm sorry that you are getting conflicting information. I just read over the brochure and I don't exactly see that stated anywhere either. Unfortunately, I've had issues where I've called RC and asked a question, and 2 or 3 times received a different answer.

 

I think I would call back again and perhaps ask for a supervisor. Just remember to remain calm when you speak to them. I know how easy it is when you are upset to get carried away on the phone. I agree with you, you are spending a lot of money on a cabin. You deserve to know what to expect.

 

I wish you the best of luck and I hope you get a better answer. If this is what their sticking too, their brochure has false information in it.

[The_Big_M]

Agreed, it's pretty lame if that is their policy (and not just a mistake/assumption by concierge).

 

It's not as though those 3rd and 4th places come for free - for from it. So if they're going to introduce a program like this, where they set the prices, they should set the prices so the benefits are consistent! Instead of delivering a half star class/half standard class program as indicated by their concierge.

[sblair]

But if you are cancelling on principal why sail on Celebrity then? That's just taking the money out of one pocket and putting it in the other.

 

I get cancelling, but I'd be taking my business to a competitor at that point, not just another one of their brands.

[Biker19]

This was mentioned in another thread. You can't say what will happen with a program that is still 6 months from starting. Give it at least two months after it starts and there is some reality based feedback on what is included before jumping ship (well within cancellation period for a 2/2017 sailing).

[CruisersTimesThree]

This was mentioned in another thread. You can't say what will happen with a program that is still 6 months from starting. Give it at least two months after it starts and there is some reality based feedback on what is included before jumping ship (well within cancellation period for a 2/2017 sailing).

 

Yes Biker that is good advice. I have until Nov 24th 2016 to cancel and receive a full refund of my deposit.

The new perks will be up and running way before that and I can see if anything has changed as far as who and what is included.

I just need a back-up plan in case ;)

[njmomof2]

I would also wait until the program is up and running and the initial bugs worked out. That way you'll get responses from others sailing in the exact cabin to compare.

 

It seems counter intuitive to provide upscale benefits to a cabin that is designed to hold more than 2 people, then tell the occupants that anyone beyond the two cannot participate in the program. If you've got kids, they aren't going to drink alcohol, but offer the soft drink or replenish package. As for dining, seriously, parents aren't going without the kids each night. But in the end it's about their money.

 

I also get the idea of wanting a backup option. Perhaps wait until there is another 1/2 deposit offer from X and then book something with them to use as a fall back if Royal doesn't work out for you. I'd hate to tie up a ton of money, but with 1/2 deposits you can make it work for you.

[WaterGirlCruiser]

Just putting this info out there for anyone who is thinking of booking a high-end suite when the new suite perks go into effect.

I recently booked a Caribbean cruise as a Christmas present surprise for my family on the Anthem of the Seas. It is for Feb. of 2017 and I booked a Grand Loft Suite.

When we sail, the new "Royal Suite Class" will be in effect, but I was getting conflicting answers from the agents I spoke with as to who exactly is entitled to the perks and benefits included.

A grand loft suite is under the Star Class which in turn entitles you to pretty much an all-inclusive vacation (drink packages, speciality restaurants, gratuities, all included)

But wait...the RCCL concierge desk contacted me this weekend (and almost blew my surprise, luckily my DH and DS weren't home!) to speak about the cruise.

My #1 question was if ALL those sailing in a specific cabin are entitled to the new suite perks and benefits. I was told a pretty definite NO! Only the first two get it all, the third and in some cases fourth in the cabin have to pay for everything that is included in the suite perks.

I'm sorry, but I think that is ridiculous for the amount of money being paid for a high-end suite!

Also, no where in their brochure or online literature about the new perks does it state that it's only for the first two passengers. When I mentioned this to the concierge, the answer I was given was that "it didn't say either way" :confused:

They should take a cue from Celebrity where everyone in the cabin receives all that is offered in their suite program.

I am now considering cancelling this cruise on principal and looking for something on Celebrity.

 

 

NO WORRIES! EVERYONE ... EVERYONE in your suite gets the amenities! You can now rest easy;). Our family is in a 2 bedroom aqua suite and we also are in "star class" for Jan 2017 on Harmony, we all will receive ultimate beverage package, unlimited specialty dining, gratuities included, along with all the other sweet suite deals! Don't cancel :D!

[WaterGirlCruiser]

Just putting this info out there for anyone who is thinking of booking a high-end suite when the new suite perks go into effect.

I recently booked a Caribbean cruise as a Christmas present surprise for my family on the Anthem of the Seas. It is for Feb. of 2017 and I booked a Grand Loft Suite.

When we sail, the new "Royal Suite Class" will be in effect, but I was getting conflicting answers from the agents I spoke with as to who exactly is entitled to the perks and benefits included.

A grand loft suite is under the Star Class which in turn entitles you to pretty much an all-inclusive vacation (drink packages, speciality restaurants, gratuities, all included)

But wait...the RCCL concierge desk contacted me this weekend (and almost blew my surprise, luckily my DH and DS weren't home!) to speak about the cruise.

My #1 question was if ALL those sailing in a specific cabin are entitled to the new suite perks and benefits. I was told a pretty definite NO! Only the first two get it all, the third and in some cases fourth in the cabin have to pay for everything that is included in the suite perks.

I'm sorry, but I think that is ridiculous for the amount of money being paid for a high-end suite!

Also, no where in their brochure or online literature about the new perks does it state that it's only for the first two passengers. When I mentioned this to the concierge, the answer I was given was that "it didn't say either way" :confused:

They should take a cue from Celebrity where everyone in the cabin receives all that is offered in their suite program.

I am now considering cancelling this cruise on principal and looking for something on Celebrity.

 

I have email confirmation as well if that helps out your mind at ease. I went through exactly what you did, more than once actually and went all the way up the chain for confirmation. We almost cancelled as well. I was pretty livid myself.

[CruisersTimesThree]

I would appreciate if you could share who it is you spoke to or who sent you an email stating all passengers in the suite get the perks. I have spoken to 2 different agents who had me on hold forever and then came back and told me the same thing, that perks where for ONLY the first 2 guests. One even said he sent an email to their web department to have that added to the webpage about the new suite class, which of course hasn't happened. So frustrating getting different answers from different people!

[jonj]

your post had me questioning the suite perks. I have not called in but have looked at Royal's website and came across these brochures which in no way say the perks are for the first two passengers only

 

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/content/en_US/pdf/enhanced-program-for-suites-guests-v7.pdf

 

http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/b5fcb56f#/b5fcb56f/1

[CruisersTimesThree]

your post had me questioning the suite perks. I have not called in but have looked at Royal's website and came across these brochures which in no way say the perks are for the first two passengers only

 

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/content/en_US/pdf/enhanced-program-for-suites-guests-v7.pdf

 

http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/b5fcb56f#/b5fcb56f/1

Yes jonj, I have pointed out the fact that the webpage and brochures say nothing about it only being the first two guests to both "concierges" I spoke to and the first said "well, it doesn't say either way, but it is only for the first two"

The second one put me on hold and came back with "sorry, but yes, only the first two guests receive all the amenities, you have to pay the gratuities, restaurant charges, drinks/packages for the 3rd and 4th"

I see that a perk is free dry cleaning/pressing also...so if I send something out will the "genie" have my husband and son try it on to be sure they are my husbands pants/shirts I am sending and not my son's (3rd in the cabin)??!!

Free internet? Do they have someone follow my son around to be sure he is not the one using it???

It makes no sense! The perks should be across the board for all in the cabin!

[jonj]

low my son around to be sure he is not the one using it???

It makes no sense! The perks should be across the board for all in the cabin!

 

100% agree - I think it is the people answering the phones not having a clue. I am not on FB much but maybe if you are it would be a good question to post to the president of sales or whatever her title is? Vicki Freed?

 

https://www.facebook.com/VickiLovesTravelAgents/

 

or email the concierge on the ship you will be on? I know there is a concierge contact thread on the main board. I will be emailing them in the new year with questions and will also pose this to them

Edited December 30, 2015 by jonj

[pkexton]

I looked at the 2nd link (Suite Brochure) and the next to the last page shows room occupancy - why would that be listed if all occupants didn't get the perks.

 

Pat

[WaterGirlCruiser]

I would appreciate if you could share who it is you spoke to or who sent you an email stating all passengers in the suite get the perks. I have spoken to 2 different agents who had me on hold forever and then came back and told me the same thing, that perks where for ONLY the first 2 guests. One even said he sent an email to their web department to have that added to the webpage about the new suite class, which of course hasn't happened. So frustrating getting different answers from different people!

 

I am just checking email, sorry... I went further up than just a Royal agent.... And he went further up. Now have official in writing from marketing what will soon be put out there. You can speak with Dan... His email to me is below

 

 

Hi Stacey, This email is to confirm that all passengers in the Royal Suite Class will receive all eligible benefits and not just guest one and 2. This has been confirmed by Supervisors and Managers here.

 

Dan Ebling

Loyalty Resolution Specialist

Royal Caribbean International

Tel: 1-800-526-9723 Ext. 27533

Email: DEbling@rccl.com

Sat-Wed. 6:00 A.M.- 2:30 P.M. PST

Fax: 786-264-9687

Supervisor - Ron Hales

Tel: 1-800-526-9723 Ext 29161

RHales@rccl.com

 

 

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Below is another email

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{\colortbl;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue0;}

\deftab720

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\f0\fs30 \cf0 \expnd0\expndtw0\kerning0

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I hope that comes out when it sends

[WaterGirlCruiser]

Hmmmmm... That last picture didn't come out as I hoped... I don't know how to post it on here... I could send you an email though of what was sent... It is what is printed up to go out on suite faq sites I'm guessing... But it's all typed out, be happy to send... Kidschoice ataoldotcom... It is another e ail for confirmation.

[Merion_Mom]

I have no proof other than my long experience with Royal Caribbean, but I would say that there is NO WAY IN HELL that the "benefits" are only for the first two passengers in eligible suites.

[WaterGirlCruiser]

I would appreciate if you could share who it is you spoke to or who sent you an email stating all passengers in the suite get the perks. I have spoken to 2 different agents who had me on hold forever and then came back and told me the same thing, that perks where for ONLY the first 2 guests. One even said he sent an email to their web department to have that added to the webpage about the new suite class, which of course hasn't happened. So frustrating getting different answers from different people!

 

 

I was just wondering if you got w little peace of mind today and called Dan...... I have been right where you are and I was flipping out actually.... Rest easy, everyone is your suite is going to get ALL the ammenities and it's going to be a fabulous vacation :).

[CruisersTimesThree]

I was just wondering if you got w little peace of mind today and called Dan...... I have been right where you are and I was flipping out actually.... Rest easy, everyone is your suite is going to get ALL the ammenities and it's going to be a fabulous vacation :).

I haven't had a chance to speak with anyone yet.

We are deciding between keeping this cruise or booking the penthouse for a Bermuda cruise on Celebrity.

Thank you so much for your input!

[WaterGirlCruiser]

I haven't had a chance to speak with anyone yet.

We are deciding between keeping this cruise or booking the penthouse for a Bermuda cruise on Celebrity.

Thank you so much for your input!

 

I have never been on celebrity, would love to hear about that line.... Is it about the same as or more expensive than Rccl? Penthouse sounds pretty nice! The new suite ammenities sound like a pretty sweet deal for us , of course we are not accustom to that kind of treatment or being in a suite, penthouse sounds pretty amazing! Do you mind me asking cost of penthouse and for how many people? What ship? How many days? Just curious... Thanks!

[CruisersTimesThree]

We have sailed Celebrity twice in the last several years and have been very pleased each time. We booked Royal Suites for both cruises and were very impressed by the top-notch service received from everyone we encountered.

My husband has always wanted to sail in the penthouse, so today I did cancel the RCCL cruise and booked the Celebrity Summit for a 7 night cruise to Bermuda.

We have been to Bermuda many times, but it's one of our favorite vacation destinations so returning there makes us all happy.

I am not a mega-ship type, so that had me a bit apprehensive sailing on Anthem. I do prefer smaller ships, I believe the service is better, more intimate and personal.

I know the food on Celebrity is very good so no worries there. There are several different venues to eat including a suite only dining room.

With the penthouse everything is inclusive for ALL guests in it. Premium drink package, specialty dining, Internet, liquor/beverages in suite, dry cleaning, afternoon suite tea service just to name some amenities and a wonderful butler. We do have to pay gratuities, but we received a $300 obc, so that will cover most of it.

For 3 people it is a bit over $13,000.

You should go to YouTube and look for videos of Celebrity M-class penthouse to see how beautiful it is, the veranda is to die for!

Thanks for all your input again! I hope you have a wonderful cruise!

[nik23]

NO WORRIES! EVERYONE ... EVERYONE in your suite gets the amenities! You can now rest easy;). Our family is in a 2 bedroom aqua suite and we also are in "star class" for Jan 2017 on Harmony, we all will receive ultimate beverage package, unlimited specialty dining, gratuities included, along with all the other sweet suite deals! Don't cancel :D!

 

 

NO WORRIES, Another confirmation: I to was a bit concerned about who receives the perks, so I called C&A and spoke with a representative that read directly from an email that came out last week clarifying the suite perks. The email read, "All guests traveling in the suite will get the suite benefits." She stated it included beverage package for ALL, internet for ALL, specialty restaurants for ALL, etc.

 

When I called C&A yesterday to book the suite the second representative in C&A also confirmed by reading the email sent down from the top clarifying the benefits. I was then satisfied and booked the 2-bedroom aquatheater suite for (8), so this was a huge deal for us.

[espo56]

I have been on the Celebrity Summit to Bermuda 2x and one time to Canada. It is an old tired ship with no bells and whistles. I strongly suggest you stay with Anthem or book something else. Bermuda is our favorite place but we won't go again until Celebrity replaces that old ship.

[CruisersTimesThree]

I have been on the Celebrity Summit to Bermuda 2x and one time to Canada. It is an old tired ship with no bells and whistles. I strongly suggest you stay with Anthem or book something else. Bermuda is our favorite place but we won't go again until Celebrity replaces that old ship.

 

To each his own. As I said in my above post, we have sailed the Summit and love that old ship.

The new mega-ships that are coming out year after year are not my cup of tea.

With over 4000 passengers to please, I don't see getting the same service you would on a ship the size of the Summit.

When the NCL Breakaway entered service, we were in Bermuda waiting on a taxi line and in conversation with others who were aboard her and listened to nothing but complaints about how big the ship was and how bad the service was because there just didn't seem to be enough crew to handle all the passengers.

The Summit is going in for a major refurbish this March, so I am sure some tired old areas will be spruced up.

The penthouse will be enough bells and whistles for me!

Thanks for your opinion, though.