Time for a new past guest level?

[mjmiller]

What juice is used in a melon ball? I see some recipes say pineapple, some say orange. I'm totally allergic to orange, but not SO allergic to pineapple! lol

[LHP]

5 OV 7 day cruises out of Miami, $599. X 5 =$2995

10 OV 3 day cruises out of Miami $329 X 10 = $3290

 

But I'm old and don't know new math.

 

 

As I said in an earlier post, NO MATTER how they set it up, someone will whine and cry it should be some other way.

Maybe that IS why they chose NOT to have ANY program until 5 years ago.

 

Dan

 

Yes, there has been a lot of discussion about sea days vs number of cruises...but then if someone wanted to get real technical....there are some who sail in Cat 12 and those of us who only do OV and Interiors.....OR folks who sail newer ships (which are more expensive) as opposed to the old ships.....also those who drink alot and gamble and those of us whose last two Sail and Sign bills were $1.39 and $2.65 .... and I am NOT kidding!! woo hoo!!!

 

I think for the price you pay for a Carnival cruise....they got it right.

 

Number of cruises works for me....because we literally paid almost same for a 2 day cruise to nowhere on the Splendor than we did for a 7 day on the Miracle!

[Traveling Gram]

I "bought" one of the certificates for a future cruising deposit on Freedom also. It seemed like a good deal and you get an OBC of varying amounts ,up to $200 for a 12 night cruise - I think $100 for a 7-8. Don't know about 9 days. Says it is good for one per stateroom and can be in conjunction with any other special. Now, when do I use it?? Probably my Dream trip as it is the longest.

PEnny

[jessemon]

Carnival's system is based on REPEAT guest.....those who sail over and over on their ships. It's not based on the number of sea days-nor should it be.

 

The whole idea is to bring the cruiser back to Carnival for another trip....not to encourage booking longer cruises. Using that logic' date=' those who paid for a minimum inside cabin at 329.00 shouldn't be counted as much as those who book a suite for 939.00.

 

Thanks goodness Carnival is "democratic" in that way.

 

.[/quote']Geez...I never thought of that ......:rolleyes:

I guess the other systems cruiselines use is broken. Number of days at sea or miles at sea. Seems like they have many REPEAT guests on their ships also, of which I am one...;)

The difference is on other lines for the cabins you book (pricing wise) is the benefits afforded those guests. From gifts in cabins to caviar and champagne with the Captain in private parties.

There is nothing democratic about Carnivals system. Just the opposite. They screw the pax who are 7 day plus cruisers and reward the ones who book 3 day cruises. The ones who are unaware (7 nighters) of how the system works. I have taken advantage of this system, but the rewards you get for platinum are a joke. I have only a couple more to do on this line and I will be platinum.

I know you will be back to comment and it will fall on deaf ears. Many people ( if they looked at this thread) would agree with me and not you. Saying things like I have 65 days at sea in a cat 11 suite and someone else only has 27 days in a 4A and they are platinum.......And I'm not.....:eek:

They'd probably take their money elsewheres if they thought of it.

You see...it has nothing to do with money...it is a terrible and unfair system....;)

Sea days or miles......is the only fair system. Most people cruise the same class of cabin most of the time.......;)

The best system would be how much money is spent......I spend a ton of money. I'd of been platinum after the fifth (burp) cruise......:p

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

There is no totally RIGHT or WRONG way to count cruises - especially depending upon who you ask.

 

Being new to Celebrity, I was confused and getting conflicting information w/regard to how credit is assigned. I finally heard back from someone in their Captain's Club. Their method (below) seems a bit more fair than Carnival's.

3 to 11 - night cruises = One cruise credit (A LOT of their sailings are ~ 10 nights)

 

12 - night cruise/cruisetour or longer = Two cruise credits

 

3 to 11 - night cruises in a Concierge Class or Suite = Two cruise credits

 

12 - night and longer cruises in a Concierge Class or Suite = Three cruise credits

 

So, after our 3rd Celebrity cruise (next Saturday - woo hoo) we will have 6 "credits". From what I understand their system has you as a "Classic" member from 2-4 credits, "Select" from 5-9, and "Elite" from 10+. Seeing how quickly someone could end up in their TOP TIER makes you wonder why they don't have higher levels. So see, there are problems/benefits the systems used by everyone out there!

 

If Carnival would factor in SOMETHING which accounts for duration (at least in part) and for suite vs. non-suite, that would be an improvement, IMHO.

 

Alas - I don't see them changing the way they count cruises... only modification to their benefit program.

 

Tom

[LHP]

The other thing that folks seem to forget is that Carnival had YEARS of cruises to grandfather in.

 

We had to have 8 added from 1982 to 1990.....

 

Most folks don't even know the old cruises they took...much less how many days or what kind of cabin they stayed in.

 

With Carnival starting in what 1972 and the cruises not recognized by computer until 1990....what a nightmare?

 

As for what other cruise lines give in perks....the passenger is the one who ends up paying for them with higher cruise fares.

 

Would I like to see more...of course I would...I am human...but I believe Carnival is pretty much in line with the cost of their cruises.

[glrounds]

Geez...I never thought of that ...... I guess the other systems cruiselines use is broken. Number of days at sea or miles at sea. Seems like they have many REPEAT guests on their ships also, of which I am one...

The difference is on other lines for the cabins you book (pricing wise) is the benefits afforded those guests. From gifts in cabins to caviar and champagne with the Captain in private parties.

There is nothing democratic about Carnivals system. Just the opposite. They screw the pax who are 7 day plus cruisers and reward the ones who book 3 day cruises. The ones who are unaware (7 nighters) of how the system works. I have taken advantage of this system, but the rewards you get for platinum are a joke. I have only a couple more to do on this line and I will be platinum.

I know you will be back to comment and it will fall on deaf ears. Many people ( if they looked at this thread) would agree with me and not you. Saying things like I have 65 days at sea in a cat 11 suite and someone else only has 27 days in a 4A and they are platinum.......And I'm not.....:eek:

They'd probably take their money elsewheres if they thought of it.

You see...it has nothing to do with money...it is a terrible and unfair system....;)

Sea days or miles......is the only fair system. Most people cruise the same class of cabin most of the time.......;)

The best system would be how much money is spent......I spend a ton of money. I'd of been platinum after the fifth (burp) cruise......:p

 

I agree completely, Jesse

 

Since PLATINUM is an outright GIFT from Carnival and of questionable objective value anyway, I don't really know where FAIRNESS enters in, but to carry your thinking a little further, why not base a rewards system on the TOTAL CRUISE EXPENDITURE:

 

This would take into account cabin category cost of basic passage and Sail'n'Sign charges combined. This way, the suite passenger that drowns his brain in alcohol (non-smuggled of course:rolleyes:), drops a fotune in the casino, loves to have the ship take pics of him and his family, fills every port day with a conglomeration of Carnival excursions, and buys an over-priced t-shirt or sweater for everyone he knows in his home town, would have a decided advantage.:D

[jetskier]

Oh melon balls are my FAVORITE....it is one of the free drinks at the Past Cruiser's Party (but not the Captain's Party).

 

If you like a sweet fruity drink...they are great!!!

 

 

Linda,

When you go on the Fantasy in January, try a "Twilight Zone". It is not on the bar menu. It is a frozen drink made with Melon liquor and Coconut liquor. This gives it a yellowish hue. They then splash a bit of Blue Curacao. As the two colors blend as the ice shavings melt, it starts turning the drink green.

Dave

[tlw440]

5 OV 7 day cruises out of Miami, $599. X 5 =$2995

10 OV 3 day cruises out of Miami $329 X 10 = $3290

 

But I'm old and don't know new math.

 

 

As I said in an earlier post, NO MATTER how they set it up, someone will whine and cry it should be some other way.

Maybe that IS why they chose NOT to have ANY program until 5 years ago.

 

Dan

I don't know if you can't do math or can't read.:D

[dan40]

I don't know if you can't do math or can't read.:D

 

"I think that the platinum level should be based on the cost of your cruise. Five, seven day cruises cost more than ten, three day cruises." [tlw440]

 

Can't read, rite, or walk and chew gum at the same time. I'm just a mess.:eek:

 

Dan

[glrounds]

I agree completely, Jesse

 

Since PLATINUM is an outright GIFT from Carnival and of questionable objective value anyway, I don't really know where FAIRNESS enters in, but to carry your thinking a little further, why not base a rewards system on the TOTAL CRUISE EXPENDITURE:

 

This would take into account cabin category cost of basic passage and Sail'n'Sign charges combined. This way, the suite passenger that drowns his brain in alcohol (non-smuggled of course:rolleyes:), drops a fotune in the casino, loves to have the ship take pics of him and his family, fills every port day with a conglomeration of Carnival excursions, and buys an over-priced t-shirt or sweater for everyone he knows in his home town, would have a decided advantage.:D

 

To carry my own thoughts a little further . . . how about the $100,000 club, then the $250,000 club and, of course, the MILLION DOLLAR CLUB ! ! :rolleyes:

This would, of course, clobber me, as I drink very little, never take Carnival excursions, don't gamble on cruise ships, buy junk art or photos, shop at ship-sponsored stores, or buy over-priced t-shirts and trinkets ! ! :eek:

As Dan said, there will always be someone whining about the methodology in determing the "perks".:) Anyway, I can't believe someone would spend a $100,000, much less a MILLION DOLLARS, on one cruiseline SOLELY for the intent of getting some nearly valueless perks. :confused:

[Mikew0805]

I personally like the perks the way they are! Yes, "huge" perks are nice anywhere, but they come at a cost and I would rather keep seeing the prices low for everyone, then to recieve "better" perks. JMO

[Carolinamamasita]

I think it works fine as it is, but it would be nice if Platinum kicks in after cruise #5 and not 10. After 10 it could be Diamond and 25 concierge.

 

The past guest party on the Liberty in September had 1700 past passengers. They used the big show lounge and I would say over half of the past guests showed up. I did, I enjoy the free drinks. I had nine free melon balls...YUM!!!!

 

arent those melon balls good when they are free...

Yummy !!

I think I had about that many of them too:p

[LHP]

I really don't care what color my card is. I really don't even check what other peoples card colors are. As long as I have a good time. ;)

Carnival has a very strange system for awarding platinum cards anyways. It is done by the number of cruises you do...not how many days at sea or miles sailed. I can take 9 three night cruises and on my 10th cruise be platinum. While other people can take 9 seven night cruises to become that level. So someone has cruised 27 nights and on their next cruise they get to be platinum. While someone who has 63 days at sea is still not platinum.....

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm................:confused::eek::(

 

This has been discussed a lot...but the way it is figured is best for Carnival.

Carnival has 20 years without records to contend with. Guests are doing good to get cruises from back in the early 80's added....much less have to worry about how any days.

 

The inference is that 7 day cruises cost more money and therefore should be more "valued" to Carnival. So where does it end? If someone books a 3 day, but they book the Cat 12 suite....gambles and drinks alot and spends a ton in the Spa....they could easily "outspend" someone like us on the 7 day that books the interior....does not gamble...drinks very little and never goes to the Spa.

 

For Carnival...number of cruises is fine....

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

...

For Carnival...number of cruises is fine....

 

I agree!

 

Though I will say that I also like the way that Celebrity (and RCCL) count your cruise as ONE point... if you book a suite then that sailing counts as TWO. If your sailing is 12 days or longer, you get ANOTHER point. MAX of 3 per sailing. Granted both of those lines are cutting back on their rewards programs from what I have been reading... so .... ;)

 

Carnival should keep their tallying just the way it is --- and work on "higher" levels...!!! :D

 

Tom

[LHP]

I agree!

 

Though I will say that I also like the way that Celebrity (and RCCL) count your cruise as ONE point... if you book a suite then that sailing counts as TWO. If your sailing is 12 days or longer, you get ANOTHER point. MAX of 3 per sailing. Granted both of those lines are cutting back on their rewards programs from what I have been reading... so .... ;)

 

Carnival should keep their tallying just the way it is --- and work on "higher" levels...!!! :D

 

Tom

 

Yes indeed....where is our Black Elite Card for Milestone Members ???? :D

[batoutofhell]

I agree!

 

Though I will say that I also like the way that Celebrity (and RCCL) count your cruise as ONE point... if you book a suite then that sailing counts as TWO. If your sailing is 12 days or longer, you get ANOTHER point. MAX of 3 per sailing. Granted both of those lines are cutting back on their rewards programs from what I have been reading... so .... ;)

 

Carnival should keep their tallying just the way it is --- and work on "higher" levels...!!! :D

 

Tom

I agree. Keep the counting system the same, and work on adding that long-talked-about elite level at 25 cruises.

 

Here are some perk ideas I have. Of course, only some would actually be implemented. (All of them would be nice, but that might be asking for much. ;))

 

- Free internet time

- Free photo from the gallery

- Discounted or free spa treatment

- Drink coupons

- Elite-only (and/or platinum-only) party

- Priority luggage delivery after cruise.

- Free game of bingo

- Coupon to the specialty coffee shop

[Snoozeman]

You were guided under the influence. Any cilateral damage? :eek:

 

Oh man, I really misread that when I first glanced at it.:eek::eek::eek::rolleyes:

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

Oh man, I really misread that when I first glanced at it.:eek::eek::eek::rolleyes:

 

You just HAD to point that out... :rolleyes:

 

;)

 

Tom

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

Methinks a bridge tour for Milestones!!

 

Tom

[Litewait]

Lots of opinions..

 

1.) applying the cost of the cruise.. I'm sorry but I look and book the best cruise price, I look for price drops ect. Because I shop well that would be unfair to apply to me. Also, when I cruise I pay for both my children does that count toward the total?? My dd (21) will be platinum in Aug and ds (15) in Dec. So I have paid alot for cruises even shopping well. In that situation my 3rd guest really gets the shaft.

 

2.) Total nights. I have cruised 8,7,5, 4 &3 night cruises. Again since I pay for my kids can I combine all our days?? I'm a single parent and can't always afford a 7 night cruise for the 3 of us. Should that be held againt me?

 

These are just examples of what Carnival would come up against.

 

If they should change it I just ask they grandfather in every one that has already hit their levels. I agree with an earlier post that Carnival is about rewarding repeat customers. Someone has to fill those 3 night cruises!

 

On another thought. I AGREE there should be a seperate party for platinum cruisers. The ones now are ridiculous and half the time I don't get served. I usually go alone as my kids aren't interested, so I get overlooked unless I visibly flag them down.

 

Who can we all email or write to request this?? Maybe a massive email or letter campaign might get some attention in that area.

 

oh yeah, I also like the idea of ordering breakfast ect from the main menu to be delivered!!

 

I have cruises 11 & 12 booked, so along way from the next level..:(

[glrounds]

Yes indeed....where is our Black Elite Card for Milestone Members ???? :D

 

I agree. Keep the counting system the same, and work on adding that long-talked-about elite level at 25 cruises.

 

Here are some perk ideas I have. Of course, only some would actually be implemented. (All of them would be nice, but that might be asking for much. ;))

 

- Free internet time

- Free photo from the gallery

- Discounted or free spa treatment

- Drink coupons

- Elite-only (and/or platinum-only) party

- Priority luggage delivery after cruise.

- Free game of bingo

- Coupon to the specialty coffee shop

 

I would love all the emphasized above . . . BLACK CARD (easy to do) . . . FREE INTERNET (robs them of some revenue though) . . . and SPECIAL PARTY where we actually get to see the waitstaff with a drink. The past guest party which is so heavily attended, is losing all of its exclusivity, why not jump to party for the PLATINUM people ONLY. :D

 

OR . . . Carnival could combine the ELITE cruisers with the PLATINUM cruisers for a gala party and just make the Platinum cruisers drink beer, while the elite cruisers get mixed drinks. (that ought to liven up the thread ! :rolleyes:)

[Wennfred]

Are those Melon balls with the bacon wrapped around them?:confused:

[G'ma]

What juice is used in a melon ball? I see some recipes say pineapple, some say orange. I'm totally allergic to orange, but not SO allergic to pineapple! lol

 

Here's the traditional:

 

Melon Ball

1 oz. Vodka

1 oz. Midori

Orange Juice

Maraschino Cherry

 

Pour vodka into a collins glass filled with ice, fill almost with orange juice, float midori and stir gently. Garnish with the maraschino cherry

 

It can also be made with pineapple juice....and some add a shot of peach schnapps..... The key ingredient is Midori liquour which is made from honeydew and other melons.......

[G'ma]

Geez...I never thought of that ......:rolleyes:

I guess the other systems cruiselines use is broken. Number of days at sea or miles at sea. Seems like they have many REPEAT guests on their ships also, of which I am one...;)

The difference is on other lines for the cabins you book (pricing wise) is the benefits afforded those guests. From gifts in cabins to caviar and champagne with the Captain in private parties.

There is nothing democratic about Carnivals system. Just the opposite. They screw the pax who are 7 day plus cruisers and reward the ones who book 3 day cruises. The ones who are unaware (7 nighters) of how the system works. I have taken advantage of this system, but the rewards you get for platinum are a joke. I have only a couple more to do on this line and I will be platinum.

I know you will be back to comment and it will fall on deaf ears. Many people ( if they looked at this thread) would agree with me and not you. Saying things like I have 65 days at sea in a cat 11 suite and someone else only has 27 days in a 4A and they are platinum.......And I'm not.....:eek:

They'd probably take their money elsewheres if they thought of it.

You see...it has nothing to do with money...it is a terrible and unfair system....;)

Sea days or miles......is the only fair system. Most people cruise the same class of cabin most of the time.......;)

The best system would be how much money is spent......I spend a ton of money. I'd of been platinum after the fifth (burp) cruise......:p

 

Well, I guess it all depends upon whose ox is being gored, huh? Those who've reached platinum or higher think the system is fine...those who haven't, think it needs to be modified.

 

The whole idea of a loyalty program is to keep customers coming back.....ALL customers including those who book the lowest category on a guarantee basis.. These folks are just as important to the bottom line - and to filling cabins as those Suite passengers and those who book the higher categories.

 

As for what others do, or what freebies and perks others provide, I have no comment. All I can suggest is if someone doesn't like Carnival's program, they are free to move to another company.