Quantum of the Seas - 15th September HELP!!!!

[toester74]

Hi everyone :)

 

Calling out to the knowledgaeble. Im after some advice, cheeky tips, or watch-outs for our impending cruise on Quantum of the Seas, sailing from Shanghai 15th September on the 'Ultimate Japan' Cruise.

 

This will be our first RCI cruise for many years, so an apology to start - were not experienced on all things 'Royal'.

 

Here is the lowdown:

 

We believe we are fortunate enough to be Diamond Tier members, through many previous cruises with Celebrity, however, as mentioned, we are RCI novices.

 

As you do, reading several reviews through here, it unfortunatly doesnt paint a particluarly great picture, with reference to, horrific emarkation, western guests being a minority, over crowding, dining geared to a substantial Asian market, with general rudeness and mayhem citied...However, Ive always been of the belief that you must judge on your own experience and accept that a different cluture throws up some interesting opportunities, but i will admit our travelling party is feeling a little anxious.

 

Can anyone, share any useful tips, cheats, watch-outs or things to avoid that can help us on our way and reduce four extra people at the guest relations desk fumbling to ask a list of questions?

 

As said, we are Diamond Tier, and have read the 'standard' list of goodies that can provide, but wanted any specific advice for Quantum. Things include - is there a Diamond Lounge, do we have access to the Solarium and if we may nick some extra bonus privilidges..

 

Also, be great to hear any tips on excursions, espcially in Tokyo. We so much want to capture the magic of the city but read varied reviews on RCI trips vs doing something yourself.

 

Smiling, and in hope of anyone taking the time to respond :D

 

Richard

[Biker19]

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/search/royal-caribbean/quantum

[Joseph2017China]

Hi everyone :)

 

Calling out to the knowledgaeble. Im after some advice, cheeky tips, or watch-outs for our impending cruise on Quantum of the Seas, sailing from Shanghai 15th September on the 'Ultimate Japan' Cruise.

 

This will be our first RCI cruise for many years, so an apology to start - were not experienced on all things 'Royal'.

 

Here is the lowdown:

 

We believe we are fortunate enough to be Diamond Tier members, through many previous cruises with Celebrity, however, as mentioned, we are RCI novices.

 

As you do, reading several reviews through here, it unfortunatly doesnt paint a particluarly great picture, with reference to, horrific emarkation, (My last cruise at Shanghai, the port was under construction. Pulled up in taxi in the parking lot, and a porter showed up at taxi and took our things, and walked us to a priority spot for foreigners to check in. A line to get into the building, as well as lines inside said all gold and above, and foreigners this line, which basically was just us and one more person).

 

western guests being a minority, (Well, it is China so yes, unless you are Chinese, you would be a minority, and a foreigner!)

 

over crowding, (all ships have a max number of passengers so I have no idea why anyone would complain about it.)

 

dining geared to a substantial Asian market, (Some changes on the menu, but the menu is both Asian and Western. Of course you are in China, and 95% or more of the passengers are Chinese, so the smart thing would be is to have some foods common to the Asian market. That is why this cruise is called "culturally enriching cruise")

 

with general rudeness and mayhem citied...However, Ive always been of the belief that you must judge on your own experience and accept that a different cluture throws up some interesting opportunities, but i will admit our travelling party is feeling a little anxious. (You will find the Chinese to be in tour groups, as opposed to individuals like yourself. For some reason, on the first day or two, they think they have to stay together, even on the ship. Why, they think this, I don't know, but it seems to be the root cause of all issues. When in a group you always want to stay in the group so as not to be lost. But they are on a ship, so why so important to watch the show in the same rows. After a day or two, it simmers down. For many, this is a new adventure. Overall, I did not have issues, and it was quite fun at times being the minority.)

 

Can anyone, share any useful tips, cheats, watch-outs or things to avoid that can help us on our way and reduce four extra people at the guest relations desk fumbling to ask a list of questions?

 

You will want to stay away from guest relations if at all possible!!!! Most of the time, you will have an area for foreigners to eat etc. Avoid the Windjammer when it opens. Remember, they liked to eat at the same time the first/second days. Just wait 30-45 minutes. Same with dinner. Arrive a few minutes later, or use specialty restaurants. Avoid the rush. Use the Diamond lounge to get answers, not guest services.

 

As said, we are Diamond Tier, and have read the 'standard' list of goodies that can provide, but wanted any specific advice for Quantum. Things include - is there a Diamond Lounge, do we have access to the Solarium and if we may nick some extra bonus privilidges..

 

You might be the only Diamond. When I was on, it was also the suite lounge. Both combined. Still pretty empty. Also, you should have access to the Solarium as a Diamond.

 

Also, be great to hear any tips on excursions, espcially in Tokyo. We so much want to capture the magic of the city but read varied reviews on RCI trips vs doing something yourself.

 

Almost all excursions were geared to the Chinese market. Personally, I would try to work out a private tour. Most of the Chinese will be in groups, and do not do ship tours. I was not in Tokyo, but we did things on our own. Really easy, just plan it out, make sure you have directions in Japanese for taxi's and have some local money to pay them.

 

Smiling, and in hope of anyone taking the time to respond :D

 

Richard

 

Just remember, this will be different. You will be an outsider. On the ship, the crew will love you and you will be well taken care of. Many of the Chinese will talk to you in English, and will also be happy to practice! Have fun in the game shows, by making them speak English for you! Makes it fun. Be aware, there are different customs involved, and just accept it. What you think is abnormal, is normal for them. You are the experienced cruiser, they are just following the leader until they figure it out.

[BekkaW]

Just to note, you will not automatically be Diamond. You are entitled to a tier match from celebrity but you need to contact crown and anchor to set up an account and have your reciprocal level put in place

[toester74]

Thanks Joseph2017China - really helpful tips

 

And yes Bekka - we have transferred our points :D