Joebucks

I don't believe most people who say they don't care about reaching Pinnacle. Maybe it's even a subconscious thing, but they want those perks and that status. It also appears disingenuous to count the "cost" as the cruise fare alone. As if somehow all of the transportation, entertainment, gratuities, port purchases, etc., don't cost anything. Also, with the "casino offers" to get there. Let me guess, some people reached Pinnacle because "they only gambled $50 here and there". As much as I love vacations and cruising, some things get old after a while. Sure, I know there are shortcuts to getting to the 700 nights. Still, that is a lot of time to dedicate to one type of vacation and a specific cruise line. Is it really that Royal Caribbean is the best of all lines, in every scenario? Or is it that you're ready to admit you want the "free stuff" that dominates the discussion on these forums way more than experience does.

It's just that, a feeling. Why is there an expectation of drinks at private islands but not private ports? Also compared to what? Royal Caribbean's private island that has "dynamic pricing drink packages?" Where you pay extra for their fare and extra for the drink package that can be used on the island. All for a "feeling". Nothing comes for free. Even though people obsessively chase free, it comes for a cost.

Supply and demand. If no one goes on it, the price won't be $19. If the lines are long, the price goes up. You are not owed a free roller coaster ride.

This forum is funny with its echo chambers. "Inedible" is used when something isn't to your preference. Where outside of Cruise Critic, inedible means something completely different. I can't remember the last time I went to some sort of unlimited bacon setting, serving thick-cut.

It warms my heart that the deli has a salumeria sandwich. The colors, while I know are an homage to Miami, remind of vintage Carnival colors.

Some may find it hard to believe if you've spent some time of this forum. I mean when 4am pizza and ice cream went away, they basically took away the ability eat for free. Miraculously, the deli is complementary and will feature some great Miami staples.

Patient: Hey doc, I had 4 plates of red meat at dinner Doc: Oh you must be on vacation. Everyone does that! Perfectly healthy.

Most of the larger ships offer a pasta lunch somewhere. This is more of that, just in that venue. Not really the quality of the Cucina dinner

What does being a Diamond VIFP have to do with bottled water costing more? Also, show me any non-grocery business that charges less than $1 per bottled water. They all overcharge for something that is free. I swear, Carnival is better off just raising fares. People could have their fare raised by $100 and not think twice, but having those "$5 nickel and dimes" just ruins their lives.

Can we post a sticky thread to let everyone in on the secret of high inflation?

The technology explanation is a farce. If Carnival wanted to do it, they could. The truth is, they have all of these drink packages down to a science. While people try to justify it as "wow I can definitely justify $60-$70 in one day" they fail to realize the full scope. Port days have to be big savings for the cruise lines. Just because it is their private island, why should they spend more on alcohol costs? If people expect it at half moon, why not at other "private" Carnival ports? Sure some lines may have written it into their cost structure. It doesn't mean all lines have to follow. You are free to go sail there if it is that important.

The lack of casino bar and small comedy club are the stains of this ship. Other than that, I loved it. Heroes tribute bar is the best sports bar I have seen on a Carnival ship. The food options are plentiful. Everything is in rather good working and physical condition. I really enjoyed the itinerary too.

There are two types of last minute bookings 1.) Hoping your cruise of choice is being given away for nearly free at the last minute 2.) Being flexible in your cruise itinerary, dates, etc. and taking random deals on a whim I wouldn't waste your time trying to be in #1

Hell yea I stopped at the Walmart in PV! We loaded up on snacks, beer, and souvenirs for under $15 that would have been 3x elsewhere. I kinda understand the resort thing, I kinda don't. In PV, we walked the Malecon then stopped at one of the beaches. We had a nice spot, cheap beer, I had some fantastic tacos. It was a great time! People are overly obsessed with "all-inclusive" while ignoring the dirt cheap prices of what you actually need, a la carte. There have been some places though where we do a pass because there are not as many affordable beach, food, and drink options nearby to enjoy yourself.

I'll bet $50 that no one ever buys FTTF at $50 again. It'll be more.

It's pointless to mention. The prices of many things have already been higher on many lines, prices on everything at the grocery have gone up. When Carnival does it, it is the end of the world, and makes no sense. Some people really need a new hobby.

Can't eat every complementary option at 4am or have 3 entrees. MAJOR! You lost me at the $24 piece. A family of 4 could eat in the MDR for $0 or in the steakhouse for $196. That's the difference. The difference at home is going out to eat with a big, varied meal, that you don't have to cook, vs eating at home. On the ship, it's for food that's a little higher quality. I guess for some that $200 might be worth it though. Personally, I think steakhouses (on land or sea) are largely overrated. I can't even count how many times I went to one, looking for some sort of treat. Only to be disappointed or mildly satisfied with a $50+ cut of meat. The funniest part of all of this is if Carnival doubled their fares, no one would bat an eye. Since they get rid of the "free stuff" (that few people ever use), then everyone loses their mind. Free is king.

- Limited to 5 lunches per day - Limited to 15 towels in the stateroom at once - Nightclub closes at 3am - Limited to 1 lounge chair per person When will it end? Why would I even want to cruise anymore?!

I got the email and immediately laughed. First thing I thought about was this site and the posts there would be - "Don't you dare post that it doesn't impact you. It might impact someone!" - "Every bit adds up to a poorer experience. I just like knowing the option to get 3 entrees is there on MY vacation" $48 steakhouse is laughable to me. I was so-so at $35. $100 for a meal where a free one is available is a tough sell.

I'm surprised it's not back yet. It is an awful lot of extra profit they could be making so a few people can get in their room 2 hours early.

I have sailed all except Spirit and Excel class. Excel will be in January. I need to try Spirit! With that said, all have their pros and cons. I liked Dream class. Bigger and more stuff to do, old style atrium and nightclub, casino bar, sports bar, not too crowded, just a good layout.

Life expectancy is taken too much as gospel. It's an indicator of things, but not a reinforcement of some views you may or may not hold.

I wish it was there too. If I had to guess, I'd say it's because Indian food doesn't have mass appeal in the US.

Go to guest services and ask for money back. Seriously. I will save the OP lots of headache. There will be COVID on your next cruise.

Little to no chance Cheers is on sale by itself. If you have not yet booked the cruise, there is a chance you can save with an offer bundled in the fare.