Final Kevin Sheehan Memory Leaving. RIP O'Sheehan's

[LrgPizza]

Wow we are taking out first NCL cruise in Oct. after being RCCL exclusive and I am shocked by the amount negatives we see on these boards. All lines have that, but it seems a bit more, and a bit more vicious too. We chose NCL because the price is very good. We'll have to go, and see, evaluate and then decide to go NCL again or pay MUCH higher fares and go back with RCCL. Good news is I just switched employers that pays MUCH better than my last so we will be able to afford to go back to RCCL if we decide to.

 

Don't worry about it. Most are smart enough to realize that this is a thread that consists of people flipping out over a name change. These are generally the same people that live to flip out over everything. They've turned this into a big deal, when right now it's merely a name change. I don't know about you, but that doesn't affect my life the slightest.

 

When I first joined CC, I almost went running from NCL based on the attitude and online personalities of those posting here. I realized quickly that most these folks are the minority. I don't like some changes, couldn't care less about most, and I'd say that's the case for most who are sailing. There are some good CC people, and I've met some neat people, but I'm much happier when I avoid things like the Meet 'n Greet so I can avoid ugly, angry CC'ers. While here, it might seem the negativity is more pervasive than it is.

Edited February 21, 2016 by LrgPizza

[SeaShark]

I hardly think that renaming a bar/restaurant will remove Kevin Sheehan's memory.

 

 

The Breakaway and Breakaway+ ship classes were both designed under Kevin's direction. As long as those ships are in the fleet his influence will be felt. Much the same way that we all remember Colin Veitch everytime we sail the Epic.

 

 

Trying to hide something by sweeping it under the rug usually just results in a lumpy rug.

[long Island]

Does anyone know where Kevin Sheehan is working now ?

[pathubia]

I wonder if/how this will effect Dawn,s upcoming dry dock??

 

She was to undergo major work for a new O'Sheehans.

 

.

 

I was wondering the same thing...

[JAMESCC]

Don't worry about it. Most are smart enough to realize that this is a thread that consists of people flipping out over a name change. These are generally the same people that live to flip out over everything. They've turned this into a big deal, when right now it's merely a name change. I don't know about you, but that doesn't affect my life the slightest.

 

When I first joined CC, I almost went running from NCL based on the attitude and online personalities of those posting here. I realized quickly that most these folks are the minority. I don't like some changes, couldn't care less about most, and I'd say that's the case for most who are sailing. There are some good CC people, and I've met some neat people, but I'm much happier when I avoid things like the Meet 'n Greet so I can avoid ugly, angry CC'ers. While here, it might seem the negativity is more pervasive than it is.

 

I agree wholeheartedly and now I will anger a good portion of people on CC. I find 95+ percent of the complaints of all the lines just baby BS and do not take them seriously. Every single cruise I have been on [only 5] there is 2 or 3 times I cringe and get aggravated at the way a guest treats a crew member. People think because they are on vacation these people should be at their beck and call and they are slaves to them.

[A&L_Ont]

Jan 9th, last year.

 

I totally missed that it was 2015. Thanks for pointing it out.

 

I will ask the NCL folks here, is Del Rio that "bad"? What type of things has he done to devalue the NCL cruise experience? Has he done anything positive?

[TheDougOut]

I wish NCL could figure out how to integrate more of the "brew house" concept into the rebranding, especially on ships that can't sacrifice space for both venues. I realize the tap system on the Escape is large and complex, but I suspect that double-wide cooler of craft brews could easily be integrated as a great upgrade during the process.

[js]

Wow we are taking out first NCL cruise in Oct. after being RCCL exclusive and I am shocked by the amount negatives we see on these boards. All lines have that, but it seems a bit more, and a bit more vicious too. We chose NCL because the price is very good. We'll have to go, and see, evaluate and then decide to go NCL again or pay MUCH higher fares and go back with RCCL. Good news is I just switched employers that pays MUCH better than my last so we will be able to afford to go back to RCCL if we decide to.

 

 

Just take it all with a grain of salt. In thhe past year and half I have sailed DCL, RCCL and CCL. I have NCL and another CCL booked for future so I am on a lot of different threads. Yes, you are correct that NCL threads def have more complaining. When I first sailed the Breakaway I was so neevous based on what I read here but had a fantastic time.

 

Also I know a lot bash CCL. Its a brand I never thought I would sail. Two weeks ago, we had a spa balcony on the Breeze for 8 nights that was so much less than the RCCL and NCL ship I priced that I gave it a try. It was a wonderful experience. Saying that to those that may want to look for a change. The crew was always smiling, all knew our names, clean, friendly and we did not have any obnoxious loud drunks that people report only sail Carnival. We were 70, 48 and 22.

 

From what I frequent, Carnival bords, for the most part are very friendly. RCCL second and NCL third with lots of complaining but I still enjoy being here. Just read and comment on what is important to you. Im sure you will have a great cruise!

Edited February 21, 2016 by js

[Nola26]

Wow we are taking out first NCL cruise in Oct. after being RCCL exclusive and I am shocked by the amount negatives we see on these boards. All lines have that, but it seems a bit more, and a bit more vicious too. We chose NCL because the price is very good. We'll have to go, and see, evaluate and then decide to go NCL again or pay MUCH higher fares and go back with RCCL. Good news is I just switched employers that pays MUCH better than my last so we will be able to afford to go back to RCCL if we decide to.

 

NCL will provide an awesome on ship/excursion experience. The crews are wonderful people are just tired of changes that add cost or remove perks. Many times these changes occur after people have paid for the cruise so experience gets changed and consumer doesn't have a lot of choice to change. NCL also hasn't owned the communication so the information leaks out so it seems sneaky setting the tone for difficult exchanges with cruisers.

 

I'm booked on a summer cruise. I needed promotions to make it an option and NCL came through. We'll have a great trip, but yea we lose something's too.

[Seatbelt_Bag_LOVE]

I wish NCL could figure out how to integrate more of the "brew house" concept into the rebranding, especially on ships that can't sacrifice space for both venues. I realize the tap system on the Escape is large and complex, but I suspect that double-wide cooler of craft brews could easily be integrated as a great upgrade during the process.

 

 

This is a great idea. Loved the Brewhouse on the Escape, and we KNOW we will miss it when we are on the Getaway!

[Jezo]

It used to be called Blue Lagoon before they changed it to the Irish joint, so it might not be a disaster if it just gets another facelift.

[TowerOrchard]

Don't worry about it. Most are smart enough to realize that this is a thread that consists of people flipping out over a name change. These are generally the same people that live to flip out over everything. They've turned this into a big deal, when right now it's merely a name change. I don't know about you, but that doesn't affect my life the slightest.

 

When I first joined CC, I almost went running from NCL based on the attitude and online personalities of those posting here. I realized quickly that most these folks are the minority. I don't like some changes, couldn't care less about most, and I'd say that's the case for most who are sailing.

Agreed! Please don't let the negativity on these boards affect your perception of NCL. We have experienced the nicest people on our NCL - we always come home with new friends!

 

If you stick around long enough, you will quickly see a large percentage of the negativity on these boards comes from the same handful of posters who say the same things over and over again in many different threads. If you stick around even longer, you will see that most these grumpy folks STILL CRUISE NCL, despite all their belly-aching. From time to time, there are real concerns that are raised here, but for the most part, it's a minority of sour people who post and post and post...

[SeaShark]

Agreed! Please don't let the negativity on these boards affect your perception of NCL. We have experienced the nicest people on our NCL - we always come home with new friends!

 

If you stick around long enough, you will quickly see a large percentage of the negativity on these boards comes from the same handful of posters who say the same things over and over again in many different threads. If you stick around even longer, you will see that most these grumpy folks STILL CRUISE NCL, despite all their belly-aching. From time to time, there are real concerns that are raised here, but for the most part, it's a minority of sour people who post and post and post...

 

Yes...excellent point. However, oftentimes even the trees can't see the forest.

[Daenerys T]

NCL is phasing out O'Sheehan's Restaurant fleet wide. Same type of place just a new name. Kevin Sheehan soon to really be a distant memory.

 

I'm surprised it took them this long!

[SteveH2508]

I totally missed that it was 2015. Thanks for pointing it out.

 

I will ask the NCL folks here, is Del Rio that "bad"? What type of things has he done to devalue the NCL cruise experience? Has he done anything positive?

 

I copied this post a few weeks ago and have tweaked it slightly. I am not passing any opinions on these changes - different strokes for different folks - just posting for info. for those who are new to this board.

 

Part of the problem with NCL's overall strategy is that it's a "death by a thousand cuts" rather than a couple of major changes. There have been lots of changes over the last year or so, so adding them all up means that people who booked very far in advance are getting a significantly different experience than what they thought they were getting. Also NCL's communication of these changes has been woeful - to both pax and staff.

 

• Nickelodeon gone
  
• Geoffrey Zakarian gone
  
• 18% gratuity on specialty dining
  
• DSC raised twice
  
• drink prices raised
  
• UBP price raised twice
  
• 18% gratuity on drinks
  
• 18% gratuity on food/coffee purchases ( Java Cafe/Carlo's/gelato etc)
  
• Asian Noodle restaurant complimentary but reduced menu
  
• Hippo Slide on GSC gone
  
• Fireworks gone
  
  
• UDP is now SDP
  
• UBP used to be for everyone in room, but now it's just first two passengers
  
• Room service $7.95 except for a smaller limited "continental breakfast"
  
• Blue Man Group gone
  
• Now pay taxes/gratuities on "free" UBP/SDP
  
• No more kids pricing in specialty restaurants
  
• Port times shortened on a number of itineraries "for your convenience"
  
• No more free Cirque or Illusionarium on first night with dining package
  
• Margaritaville on Escape is now a la carte. Used to be included.
  
• Cancellation policy got much worse.
  
• Specialty restaurants either gone a la carte or increased cover charge.
  
  

Thanks to Sizzlechest for compiling this list.

[Minoushka]

AllIcan sayis I have been very satisfied with the way NCL conducts itsbusiness .Iget cabins I like ..now more or less free dining venues and or drink packages .I enjoy the ships enjot the shows the service and food.I really have only praise for them

My last cruise in December on Celebrity summit was a dudbecause of a daily floodedbalcony ...andneeding to argue to be compensated .....not helpful nor good service

It will be a while before Celebrity sees me again .

Right now NCL ismy cruise line of choice ...as longas they go places I want to visit ...treat me right and are pleasant ....they will keep my business

 

Michele

 

So far have 4 bookedfor this year and eying Asia for Xmas on Star

Looking forward to Tahitian cruises

[Cmc2873]

I copied this post a few weeks ago and have tweaked it slightly. I am not passing any opinions on these changes - different strokes for different folks - just posting for info. for those who are new to this board.

 

Part of the problem with NCL's overall strategy is that it's a "death by a thousand cuts" rather than a couple of major changes. There have been lots of changes over the last year or so, so adding them all up means that people who booked very far in advance are getting a significantly different experience than what they thought they were getting. Also NCL's communication of these changes has been woeful - to both pax and staff.

 

• Nickelodeon gone
  
• Geoffrey Zakarian gone
  
• 18% gratuity on specialty dining
  
• DSC raised twice
  
• drink prices raised
  
• UBP price raised twice
  
• 18% gratuity on drinks
  
• 18% gratuity on food/coffee purchases ( Java Cafe/Carlo's/gelato etc)
  
• Asian Noodle restaurant complimentary but reduced menu
  
• Hippo Slide on GSC gone
  
• Fireworks gone
  
  
• UDP is now SDP
  
• UBP used to be for everyone in room, but now it's just first two passengers
  
• Room service $7.95 except for a smaller limited "continental breakfast"
  
• Blue Man Group gone
  
• Now pay taxes/gratuities on "free" UBP/SDP
  
• No more kids pricing in specialty restaurants
  
• Port times shortened on a number of itineraries "for your convenience"
  
• No more free Cirque or Illusionarium on first night with dining package
  
• Margaritaville on Escape is now a la carte. Used to be included.
  
• Cancellation policy got much worse.
  
• Specialty restaurants either gone a la carte or increased cover charge.
  
  

Thanks to Sizzlechest for compiling this list.

 

NCL also said Carlo's Bakery is being pulled as of May 1. When I called NCL CS she said it was on all ships..

[Dave85]

I totally missed that it was 2015. Thanks for pointing it out.

 

I will ask the NCL folks here, is Del Rio that "bad"? What type of things has he done to devalue the NCL cruise experience? Has he done anything positive?

 

Andrew, I'll let you know what we think after our upcoming Breakaway cruise in May. As you know, we really liked the first one in November 2014, but that was before the multitude of changes discussed in the previous posts. I will say one positive thing: our November 2014 Breakaway cruise was just before NCL started handing out perks to everyone. Our May cruise to Bermuda in an extra large balcony room (Cat B6) is roughly the cost of a week in a balcony cabin on Oasis/Allure, and also includes the Ultimate Beverage Package and 4 specialty dinners.

 

If the cruise is anywhere near as much fun as our first time on BA then that's a pretty darn good deal. Time will tell...

[swedish weave]

NCL also said Carlo's Bakery is being pulled as of May 1. When I called NCL CS she said it was on all ships..

 

I will add another couple of tidbits to this list.

 

Platinum free dinner at Le Bistro is now restricted to one starter or appetizer. For several years I was able to order both soup and escargot, but not now.

 

OBC from TA was refundable last year, but same TA and same booking, OBC is now non-refundable and is restricted on how it can be used. No casino or DSC.

 

Prepaid DSC was offered as a booking bonus last year, but not now.

Edited February 21, 2016 by swedish weave

[Quilting_Cruiser]

Just take it all with a grain of salt. In thhe past year and half I have sailed DCL, RCCL and CCL. I have NCL and another CCL booked for future so I am on a lot of different threads. Yes, you are correct that NCL threads def have more complaining. When I first sailed the Breakaway I was so neevous based on what I read here but had a fantastic time.

 

Also I know a lot bash CCL. Its a brand I never thought I would sail. Two weeks ago, we had a spa balcony on the Breeze for 8 nights that was so much less than the RCCL and NCL ship I priced that I gave it a try. It was a wonderful experience. Saying that to those that may want to look for a change. The crew was always smiling, all knew our names, clean, friendly and we did not have any obnoxious loud drunks that people report only sail Carnival. We were 70, 48 and 22.

 

From what I frequent, Carnival bords, for the most part are very friendly. RCCL second and NCL third with lots of complaining but I still enjoy being here. Just read and comment on what is important to you. Im sure you will have a great cruise!

 

I'm platinum on Carnival and have never seen the behavior people say is prevalent. The majority of the people who bash Carnival have never even set foot on a Carnival ship! LOL. I just ignore them and have enjoyed every one of my CCL cruises.

 

I agree that the best thing to do with the grumpy-gusses is just ignore them as the post again and again and again complaining. :rolleyes:

 

I copied this post a few weeks ago and have tweaked it slightly. I am not passing any opinions on these changes - different strokes for different folks - just posting for info. for those who are new to this board.

 

Part of the problem with NCL's overall strategy is that it's a "death by a thousand cuts" rather than a couple of major changes. There have been lots of changes over the last year or so, so adding them all up means that people who booked very far in advance are getting a significantly different experience than what they thought they were getting. Also NCL's communication of these changes has been woeful - to both pax and staff.

 

• Nickelodeon gone
  
• Geoffrey Zakarian gone
  
• 18% gratuity on specialty dining
  
• DSC raised twice
  
• drink prices raised
  
• UBP price raised twice
  
• 18% gratuity on drinks
  
• 18% gratuity on food/coffee purchases ( Java Cafe/Carlo's/gelato etc)
  
• Asian Noodle restaurant complimentary but reduced menu
  
• Hippo Slide on GSC gone
  
• Fireworks gone
  
  
• UDP is now SDP
  
• UBP used to be for everyone in room, but now it's just first two passengers
  
• Room service $7.95 except for a smaller limited "continental breakfast"
  
• Blue Man Group gone
  
• Now pay taxes/gratuities on "free" UBP/SDP
  
• No more kids pricing in specialty restaurants
  
• Port times shortened on a number of itineraries "for your convenience"
  
• No more free Cirque or Illusionarium on first night with dining package
  
• Margaritaville on Escape is now a la carte. Used to be included.
  
• Cancellation policy got much worse.
  
• Specialty restaurants either gone a la carte or increased cover charge.
  
  

Thanks to Sizzlechest for compiling this list.

 

 

I'm sure there's an even longer list here on CC somewhere. The thing is, so many of those changes are so minor as to be laughable. The hippo slide is gone? OMG, whatever will we do? On the 2x increases in the DSC and the mandatory tip in specialty restaurants, I can understand because that's a direct impact on the wallet, but most of these I just look at and go, Okay. Whatever. Something like that may be a disappointment, but the way some people go on and on about the changes you'd think NCL came into their homes and impacted their way of life! :cool:

[SteveH2508]

I will add another couple of tidbits to this list.

 

Platinum free dinner at Le Bistro is now restricted to one starter or appetizer. For several years I was able to order both soup and escargot, but not now.

 

OBC from TA was refundable last year, but same TA and same booking, OBC is now non-refundable and is restricted on how it can be used. No casino or DSC.

 

Thanks - added to the list for next time:(.

[NLH Arizona]

Agreed! Please don't let the negativity on these boards affect your perception of NCL. We have experienced the nicest people on our NCL - we always come home with new friends!

 

If you stick around long enough, you will quickly see a large percentage of the negativity on these boards comes from the same handful of posters who say the same things over and over again in many different threads. If you stick around even longer, you will see that most these grumpy folks STILL CRUISE NCL, despite all their belly-aching. From time to time, there are real concerns that are raised here, but for the most part, it's a minority of sour people who post and post and post...

Very well said!

 

Change, whether it be deleting something, changing something or charging for something is inevitable with the ever changing cruise industry. Some don't like change, some want the cruise line to stay the same as they have always known it and some just feel that they are getting taken advantage of no matter what the change is. On my December cruise, none of the changes affected me (keep in mind I don't cruise the mega NCL ships) and my cruising experience was the same as all my previous NCL cruises. I like that they are charging for some things, instead of rolling it into the cruise fare, so instead of NCL choosing how I spend my onboard dollars, I can choose.

 

If you look at the boards of all the cruise lines, there are those that have an issue with each and every change and all the cruise lines make changes. If NCL ever changes where I don't feel I get the bang for the buck I'm looking for, I'll just not cruise with them again.

 

I do hope that Mr. Del Rio gives O'Sheehan's a generic name, because I thought it was really egotistical of Mr. Sheehan to have a restaurant named after himself and if Mr. Del Rio does it, I'll feel the same.

Edited February 21, 2016 by NLH Arizona

[LMaxwell]

Menu looks good, as long as it remains a complimentary venue and they continue the prime rib nights, I don't care what they call it.

[electro]

Menu looks good, as long as it remains a complimentary venue and they continue the prime rib nights, I don't care what they call it.

 

There was no prime rib night on my 14 day BA jan 31 to feb 14th.

[sparks1093]

Seems like the people that are really making a big deal out of this are the ones defending NCL. Most of us have said something along the lines of "we saw it coming" "it's not a big deal, as long as it doesn't turn into an upcharge venue" or something along those lines. Since O'Sheehan's was named after the former CEO it was really only a matter of time that this would happen and it's not a big deal...as long as they don't start charging to use it.