Labadee....sounds like changes are a comming

[ChipLondon]

Nice one Bruin Steve, although a little unfair to quote it as being from Adam Goldstein, .......................................surely something of this importance would have come from Richard Fain.

[peteukmcr]

Well done Bruin Steve, made my day! I doubt some of it is far from the truth. I can see priority tenders (aren't these available now?) and different food and beverage options coming. But thanks again for a good midday laugh.

[patseacruiser]

For a minute I was believing that memo - what a hoot. I personally don't care that if you pay extra - you get extra. Heck you have to pay extra to get a window - why not a chair. And while a suite would be nice - heck I like to gamble - rather give it to them in the casino or another curise.

[DC2OC]

Funny Memo,but it seems that is the way the cruising may be heading.It was great no matter wear you bunked you had the same benefits,but like everything else time are changing.With the removal of life vest in rooms will the next step be priority life vest for suite guests?

[BroncosFan2010]

That sounds like a nice perk, but I will not sail on a ship or itinerary that visits this place. It still sounds like a money trap to me.

[HorrorFan]

I like the press release...:) and unfortunately, it isn't that far off the mark. :cool:

 

I have been to Labadee 3 times. The first two visits were just ok, if you like sun and sand. When I went there again this spring, it was disappointing. They have really changed the atmosphere of the place, for the worse in my opinion.

I have no interest in returning again, with or without 'reserved' beaches. As someone else said, it is becoming nothing more than a money trap. If I wish to visit an amusement park, I'll go to a real one.

 

I DID enjoy the market there though. Yes, even with some of the 'aggressive vendors. I guess you just have to be in the right frame of mind.:cool:

[pete78]

This makes total sense. Hotels and Airlines have been doing this for years. A loyal coach customer on Delta can't expect (though they may sometimes be upgraded) to get the first class experience over someone who has paid for a first class ticket. A loyal hilton basic room, business traveler customer can't expect to receive the same kind of service as someone who has booked a presidential suite at the hotel for a week.

 

Same here for Royal. I think it's a wonderful idea. I understand that D+ do not like the fact that perks are being rearranged and shifted to suite customers. I also understand that some of these same D+ customers would not be complaining if the VIP pool seating, front row theater seating and now Labadee perks were being granted to them.

 

Why was it ok to have "second class citizen treatment" before (D+ vs. non-D+), but now that it's shifted to Suite vs. Non-Suite, it's not ok. I don't get it, please explain.

 

I'm glad to see that Royal is finally catching up and rewarding their high-paying suite customers.

[DGNY]

This makes total sense. Hotels and Airlines have been doing this for years. A loyal coach customer on Delta can't expect (though they may sometimes be upgraded) to get the first class experience over someone who has paid for a first class ticket. A loyal hilton basic room, business traveler customer can't expect to receive the same kind of service as someone who has booked a presidential suite at the hotel for a week.

 

Same here for Royal. I think it's a wonderful idea. I understand that D+ do not like the fact that perks are being rearranged and shifted to suite customers. I also understand that some of these same D+ customers would not be complaining if the VIP pool seating, front row theater seating and now Labadee perks were being granted to them.

 

Why was it ok to have "second class citizen treatment" before (D+ vs. non-D+), but now that it's shifted to Suite vs. Non-Suite, it's not ok. I don't get it, please explain.

 

I'm glad to see that Royal is finally catching up and rewarding their high-paying suite customers.

 

I'm not sure why people compare this to Airlines (or Hotels). The analogy just doesn't work. On a flight, you pay for your first class seat. With that, you get more room and a more comfortable seat...plus, a better meal (and perhaps access to a lounge in the airport).

 

Looking at a cruise suite....you get a larger stateroom with better amenities (bedding, toiletries, etc). In addition, you get access to a concierge (and on some lines a butler). Also, there is access to a private lounge. If that were it, the analogy would work. However, by adding things like private access to a particular beach, reserved pool loungers, etc....then the analogy stops working.

 

Having said that, it's hard for me to say how far suite perks should go. I just don't think a comparison to a First Class seat is applicable.

[bmazzo]

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

 

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

 

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

 

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

 

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

 

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

 

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

 

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

 

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

 

;) ;) ;)

 

 

Now that's funny!!!! Sine I always book a suite, I wonder if they'll let me hook up with the interior peasents so I an get a free fishing exursion out of the deal. (Hey, I spent all of my money on the room!) ;)

[DEIx15x8]

I'm not sure why people compare this to Airlines (or Hotels). The analogy just doesn't work. On a flight, you pay for your first class seat. With that, you get more room and a more comfortable seat...plus, a better meal (and perhaps access to a lounge in the airport).

 

Looking at a cruise suite....you get a larger stateroom with better amenities (bedding, toiletries, etc). In addition, you get access to a concierge (and on some lines a butler). Also, there is access to a private lounge. If that were it, the analogy would work. However, by adding things like private access to a particular beach, reserved pool loungers, etc....then the analogy stops working.

 

Having said that, it's hard for me to say how far suite perks should go. I just don't think a comparison to a First Class seat is applicable.

 

Ding, Ding, We have a winner! It annoys me every time someone says, "I paid more so I should get more." You have paid nearly double and got a room that was over double in size. Sounds like RCCL already gave you more than you paid. Sometimes though (and by sometimes I do mean often, just not CC people) people in lower level rooms end up paying more than the guests in higher level rooms through the course of price drops. How is that fair if they paid more than you?

[FireIce0010]

Royal should change their name to White Star Line and rename everything thats not a suite Steerage. People are going to start taking offense to this if RC keeps adding more things for the Suite holders and not the shareholders and Platinum level people like me.

 

 

Nothing wrong with what Royal is doing. People that book suites pay a good premium for those cabins. If they want to pass along more suite perks then so be it. For the ones that want the cheap rides, then the Tilt A Whirl world of Carnival is available. ;)

[FireIce0010]

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

 

;) ;) ;)

 

Oh my gosh, I have never laughed so hard in all my life. That is soooooooooooooooooooooooooo funny.

[pcur]

I'm not sure why people compare this to Airlines (or Hotels). The analogy just doesn't work. On a flight, you pay for your first class seat. With that, you get more room and a more comfortable seat...plus, a better meal (and perhaps access to a lounge in the airport).

 

Looking at a cruise suite....you get a larger stateroom with better amenities (bedding, toiletries, etc). In addition, you get access to a concierge (and on some lines a butler). Also, there is access to a private lounge. If that were it, the analogy would work. However, by adding things like private access to a particular beach, reserved pool loungers, etc....then the analogy stops working.

 

Having said that, it's hard for me to say how far suite perks should go. I just don't think a comparison to a First Class seat is applicable.

 

Why would the analogy stop with private access to high end amenities? It's the business owner's decision regarding what is included in the higher end amenities, not the customer. I'm sure you know that Las Vegas hotels do this all the time. And, yes, your description of first class airline seating IS a good comparison: you pay more and you get more. On any given cruise the suite guests pay up to 4 - 10x more than an average inside or even outside cabin.

 

I fail to understand why a cruise ship is set apart from these other venues I've mentioned. To me they are very similar.

[booze brothers]

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

 

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

 

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

 

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

 

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

 

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

 

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

 

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

 

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

 

;) ;) ;)

 

LOL loved it, especially the part of going up the hill on an unpaved path for OV guests!

[DGNY]

Why would the analogy stop with private access to high end amenities? It's the business owner's decision regarding what is included in the higher end amenities, not the customer. I'm sure you know that Las Vegas hotels do this all the time. And, yes, your description of first class airline seating IS a good comparison: you pay more and you get more. On any given cruise the suite guests pay up to 4 - 10x more than an average inside or even outside cabin.

 

I fail to understand why a cruise ship is set apart from these other venues I've mentioned. To me they are very similar.

 

Of course it is the business owner's decision re: what is included. Just as it is the consumer's decision on what cruise line to book on. That is not where the analogy breaks down. Let me further explain:

 

If a first class flight offers X, Y and Z amenities....and a cruise suite offers X, Y, Z PLUS A, B and C...then you can't use the airline as an example to defend the cruiseline offering A, B and C. That's why the comparison is bad.

[Moondawgie]

Steve, that's hilarious. Like others, you had me for a minute. How about parents in balcony with kids in inside cabins? When they get to Labadee, do they wave to each other as they separate into their areas?:eek:

 

The referenced post said AFTER October 5 ... Well, I will be there Oct 5, so does that mean I get to experience the suite life for the last day?

 

BTW, in hotels the public areas are available to all ... there are no suite dining sections, the pools do not have reserved suite loungers, etc. Once you leave your room (or even the concierge lounge), you walk among the masses.

 

I get the idea, but it really does smack of classism ... but perhaps Fain/Goldberg don't really care about what it smells like.:rolleyes:

[bajathree]

OK...got some updated info.....according to the latest post today....it's being reported that the beach will be open to everyone but the cabanas are for the suite guests.

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=20953816&postcount=5668

[01Sweetpea]

Instead of having the cabanas for suite guests, I wish they'd open them up to everyone to rent like some of the other private islands do.

[KuffMUp]

 

BTW, in hotels the public areas are available to all ... there are no suite dining sections, the pools do not have reserved suite loungers, etc. Once you leave your room (or even the concierge lounge), you walk among the masses.

 

I have been to hotels where cabanas at the pool are for the "upper floor" people. Heck, some you can't even get to those upper floors without a special key.

[pcur]

Of course it is the business owner's decision re: what is included. Just as it is the consumer's decision on what cruise line to book on. That is not where the analogy breaks down. Let me further explain:

 

If a first class flight offers X, Y and Z amenities....and a cruise suite offers X, Y, Z PLUS A, B and C...then you can't use the airline as an example to defend the cruiseline offering A, B and C. That's why the comparison is bad.

 

I understand now. My definition of analogy is not an exact comparison, but a general one. I understand you want to be more exact in the comparison of examples. Thanks for the clarification, but I still don't agree. No problem, though, as RCCL will do what they want anyway.

[EBFURR]

Very funny Bruin Steve!! Great job!

 

I do not mind at all if suite guests are given "extra" perks for the extra money they spend. Extra to me would mean something in addition to the regular fare such as free drinks, a free specialty dining visit, free spa treatment, etc. All of this would come from RCI (by way of compensating vendors as necessary).

 

On the other hand, denying access to facilities that were previously accessible to other paying guests is not really giving anything extra, it is just taking it away from everyone else. I am not just referring to Labadee here, also the roping off of pool areas, ejection of Diamond from the concierge lounge, etc. If true, he Labadee deal is just the latest and boldest.

 

RCI is apparently all for taking care of suite guests (some of whom have cruised with RCI as many as 1 (one) times and MIGHT take another cruise) as long as it does not cost the company any real money. Just take it from the unwashed masses since they don't have big bucks to spend on board anyway. Another sign that those of us who have spent thousands with RCI over many years and have DEMONSTRATED loyalty are no longer held high regard as the one-time big spenders.

 

Oh well, we leave tomorrow for another RCI cruise. Hopefully we will not offend the suite guests with our presence on their ship.

[pete78]

Very funny Bruin Steve!! Great job!

 

I do not mind at all if suite guests are given "extra" perks for the extra money they spend. Extra to me would mean something in addition to the regular fare such as free drinks, a free specialty dining visit, free spa treatment, etc. All of this would come from RCI (by way of compensating vendors as necessary).

 

On the other hand, denying access to facilities that were previously accessible to other paying guests is not really giving anything extra, it is just taking it away from everyone else. I am not just referring to Labadee here, also the roping off of pool areas, ejection of Diamond from the concierge lounge, etc. If true, he Labadee deal is just the latest and boldest.

 

RCI is apparently all for taking care of suite guests (some of whom have cruised with RCI as many as 1 (one) times and MIGHT take another cruise) as long as it does not cost the company any real money. Just take it from the unwashed masses since they don't have big bucks to spend on board anyway. Another sign that those of us who have spent thousands with RCI over many years and have DEMONSTRATED loyalty are no longer held high regard as the one-time big spenders.

 

Oh well, we leave tomorrow for another RCI cruise. Hopefully we will not offend the suite guests with our presence on their ship.

 

Exclusion from VIP pool areas (for example) is not ok, but only allowing D+ in the Diamond Lounge and excluding non D+ from that lounge is ok? I'm just trying to understand the difference here. How/why is one exclusion ok, but not the other?

[cruising grandma]

The cabanas were already built in June when we were last at Barefoot Beach. We arrived early and chose our spot, not in a wooden raised cabana, but in a lounger in the shade......we had the choice and didn't want the cabana. Maybe the suite guests will decide they would rather have loungers in the shade and sand instead of being in the cabanas! It's basically the same for the roped off area for pool loungers for suite guests and the roped off section in the ice show for suite guests. To me, I prefer other areas in the skating show or at the pool. I agree with other posters......Labadee is changing for the worse instead of getting better. It was so nice an area before all the added walls and cabanas. just a leisurely beach day if you wanted, or a day of rentals if that's what you enjoyed. Many Royal Caribbean guests had already begun to stay onboard in Labadee. Maybe that's another reason for RCI changing up things even more.......get more guests to stay onboard and use the ship's spa services and bars instead of just lounging around with Labadoozies. The ship will not have to bring over as many frozen labadoozies if more guests stay onboard and will sell more drinks at all the other bars on the ship.

 

For those who wish to down diamond and diamond plus guests, and try to make comparisons with first class airline seats or presidential hotel suites and amenities, what would you as a first class ticket holder, if the airline decided to take away your perks that they had always given???? The loyal to Royal members who have paid for only lowest cost inside cabins, have paid for at least ten of those to become diamond and 25 to become diamond plus. Some have paid for junior suites 25 times to become diamond plus. My argument is that RCI should not take away perks of diamond or diamond plus passengers who have paid for those 10 or 25 cruises to be allowed to have those perks, and who are obviously continueing to cruise with Royal. Instead, they give extra perks, to suite guests who come onboard one time, and may not ever come back. Like someone else pointed out, the hotel presidential guests have the larger rooms and a concierge lounge, or the first class airline ticket holder has more leg room and complimentary beverages and better dining. They don't keep adding more and more perks just for the first class passengers or hotel suite guests and not allow frequent flyers or frequent hotel guests to have perks they had been having taken away. We have on several occasions been upgraded at hotels when we were second or third time guests and given discounts for dinners because we were repeat guests(even though we paid a very low $ amount each time for the hotel on Priceline). They rewarded the repeat customers, not just the high dollar guests. It sent the message that they appreciated our repeat business.

 

In the end, if the suite guests don't like the cabanas, or the roped off section at the pool, or the roped off section at the ice show or theater and chose other seats and all those end up vacant because the suite guests don't think they are special enough for them, Royal will see they screwed up again. Then, other guests that may be repeat customers, could not sit in those "golden chairs", and might not find a spot to sit, because the suite guests have taken the peasant chairs.

 

As stated before, I am a diamond plus member of Royal and have enjoyed cruising with Royal, but I do think they are making some bad choices in taking away perks diamond members paid and rewarding suite guests too much. Not everyone can afford a suite, and many like my Dh and I just love cruising. We have actually cruised 8 cruises on Royal this year alone. We have dined with the captain on several ships, and have had special perks, but I think we deserve special perks because of our repeat busuness, and $$$$$$$$ spent on 25 Royal cruises. We have also been treated well by Celebrity.

[luckyprincess]

Actually, I got my hands on an advance copy of the full release:

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Royal Caribbean Introduces The Next Generation Of The Labadee Experience

Royal Caribbean Evolves Private Beach Experiences With Amenities To Fit Your Cruising Category

 

Miami - September, 2009 - Launching in January 2010, Royal Caribbean will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's new innovations in private destinations amenities. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship company will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to distinct restricted areas of its Labadee, Haiti dedicated port, ranging from exclusive signature restaurant and spa for Suite category guests, to neighborhood-specific themed beach venues with lounges and even blow-up rafts for balcony guests to new twists on historic ship roles and traditions.

 

The new Labadee experience showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods of Labadee are designed to meet contemporary standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster curiosity, jealousy and class distinction.

 

As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, and the Labadee Experience will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

 

Upon arriving at Labadee, a new set of rules and reality will emerge. We have split up the Labadee property into four distinct "neighborhoods", each one corresponding to a different group of cabin categories. We've designed every one of our neighborhoods to be a comfortable, relaxing place completely appropriate to the category of cabin you've booked.

 

Suites/Deluxe Neighborhood

First, you will be transported to Labadee on luxury yachts commissioned especially for this purpose. Then, relax in luxury in our comfortable cabanas or at the neighborhood spa. The beach bar features plush lounge chairs and an air-conditioned lounge with large screen satellite TV with Sports Events from all over the world. A gourmet restaurant will serve crab, lobster and fine steaks. A dedicated staff of servants are available to cater to your every whim.

 

Balcony Neighborhood

Your transport from the ship to Labadee will be on priority tenders. Once there, your section of beach contains the zipline or just take the tram to the top of the hill to take in the beautiful view. Food service includes a Barbecue with Chicken, Ribs and a full salad bar. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks are available for a price. Waiters will provide various services. Chaise Lounges and air matresses are available.

 

Oceanview Neighborhood

After being transported to the island by barge, you'll enjoy a short walk over the hill and rough unpaved path to your beach. Remember to bring a towel. Food service available will be serve-yourself hot dogs, burgers and Fritos. Tap water available on request. Outhouses are provided for your comfort needs.

 

Interior Neighborhood

Transportation to the island will be provided on handmade wooden rafts. You will experience the tremendous adventure of paddling these rafts yourself as you make your exciting voyage to the island. Once on the island, your exciting traditional native Haitian experience continues with your neighborhood's food options. Choose from fishing the local waters with rudimentary nets and spears or pick from the abundant nuts and berries to be found among the neighborhoods wild plant vegetation. A nourishing meal can typically be gathered in 6 hours or less.

 

As opportunities arise to continue to refine our service and product, to add benefits worthy of our guests at all levels, we will continue to do so. Our aim is to continue to make Royal Caribbean your cruise line of choice--especially for you springing for the big bucks suite categories.

 

;) ;) ;)

OMFG! That was hilarious!! You are too funny. At first, I thought it was real then I realized it may as well be. I have to say, if I wanted an amazing suite experience filled with luxury things and perks I wouldn't do it on a mass market cruise line. Then again, I haven't found one thing to convince me to spend money on a suite. None of the perks seem worth it to me and I don't need much space for the two of us. Guess I'm lucky then! lol :p

[EBFURR]

Exclusion from VIP pool areas (for example) is not ok, but only allowing D+ in the Diamond Lounge and excluding non D+ from that lounge is ok? I'm just trying to understand the difference here. How/why is one exclusion ok, but not the other?

 

Hey Pete, I am not sure I know what you mean. Maybe I am misunderstanding. My point was that giving one class of passenger something "extra" by taking it away from another is not really giving extra to the first party, it is just taking it away from the second party. On the other hand, if the second party never had the benefit of that particular product or service to begin with, nothing has been gained nor taken away from anyone. Using the airline analogy, I am not a member of American Airlines Sky Club (or whatever), so I do not expect access to that area. I could gain access to it by being a loyal customer over time and accumulating the necessary miles. To then be told that only customers who bought first class seats on that particular day could get in and that my many miles no longer counted would not be a great move in my judgement. It would certainly be within their right to do so, but that would not make it a wise business move with regards to building customer loyalty.

 

When we were Gold C&A, we knew that Platinum and Diamond got more perks than us and that was OK. Same when we made Platinum, and eventually Diamond. Back when we were Gold and got a free 5X7 and the Platinum & Diamond got a free 8X10, that was no problem. Keep cruising and one day you too can get the 8X10. On the other hand, roping off areas around the pool that used to be accessible to everyone and say "sorry buddy, you didn't pay enough for your cabin" is another animal. Also, staying loyal and building cruise credits in order to obtain the perks of a given level and then see those taken away for the sake of making things less crowded for the suite passengers is quite disappointing. If RCI was going to spend years mailing out C&A magazines, sending emails, building websites, etc. touting the many benefits and perks of being loyal to the brand, they probably should have planned to accommodate those who believed it and spent money with them. Apparently, they woke up one day and realized that too many people were being loyal and they no longer had "room" for them.

 

Cruising is apparently headed back to the class system and segregation of days past. If that is the case, so be it.