StephPS79

Disagree with this though, we can discuss hypothetical situations all day long. However, if I'm trying to decide if RCI has horrible customer service (as stated in the title of this thread), based on the factual details I have (the website clearly states what is required, as provided by the business), I'm not mad at RCI.

Looks like they are starting to drop off to current. They usually do, just with a bit of a lag.

Do I think they are making it up? Who knows! Do I think everything on this site is factual? No. I wasn't part of the phone conversations or have any record of the phone conversations. I have nothing to make an informed decision, other than this 1 post by this one person. I'm certainly not going to drag a business because someone said something on an internet forum.

This is hearsay from a poster on Cruise Critic, detailing a phone conversation that may or may not have happened. The provided protocols on the website are straight facts.

I really do believe the cruise line is responsible for providing the information, and it ends there. It is the consumer's responsibility to act accordingly to the provided information. And yes, if there is confusion, that is the role of the TA to clarify. RCI, or any line, really, should not be expected explain the clearly stated information.

To note, not sure this is an offer that needs to be "activated," seems to be automatic, so not sure it would be listed in Offers. Also interesting that this came from RCI marketing, and not BoA, so maybe those that didn't receive the email aren't signed up for marketing offers? Also interesting that start date is 11/1 - seems like the email went out 11/15... I've attached terms from the email link. earn-points-dining-visa.pdf allure-of-the-seas-card-holder-earn-points-5x.pdf

Not booked on the Allure. Just returned from Harmony, which I redeemed some points - maybe that is related?

Got an email today with "November Offers" for the RCI Bank of America card... I don't recall any bonus point perks before - is this new? 5x points for dollars spent on Allure I've been saying this card needed some bonus point perks, as the points are slow-going, and I don't recall seeing an email like this before, but maybe I just didn't pay attention. But this seems a little random for bonus points lol. Anyone recall this before?

Happy to say offers are flowing again! I've read somewhere that someone was told by Casino rep that they cut offers off for a while this year after booking the annual cruise benefit, and this really seems to be the case. Benefit awarded after April update, I booked a cruise within a few days of being able to use the award (booked an October 30th cruise). I would say from the booking in April until probably about September, offers were dry (nonexistent). Currently have about 6 or 7 offers available. Fiance got Prime for next year on the past October sailing, I'm really hesitant to turn in that annual cruise benefit next year, as we were getting more and better offers before booking and subsequent dry spell.

I live about 15 minutes from the port, cruised out in June. It was wonderful to not have to pay for airfare or a hotel (although budget aside, it feels more like vacation when you fly somewhere new!). We Ubered, so didn't really have to deal with the parking fiasco, and not sure I would willingly deal with that nightmare. No problem with the port itself though, pretty smooth embarking/debarking. Didn't really care for the Magic, I don't mind a ship with loud decor, but I found the Magic's decor to be downright unpleasant. Overall, even being so close to the port, I'm not yet decided if I'd pass on a ship I actually like and go out of Norfolk again. Maybe on a casino comp room, but probably wouldn't pay a priced fare.

I won a $1500 hand-pay once, so just over the what, $1200(?) limit, admittedly on another line - however, I had to complete a tax form before they even put the casheesh in my grabby little hand. I imagine it's the same for anything over the limit.

It seems easy to think that the views of the majority of Cruise Critic represent the majority of the RCI cruising public, but really, there is a reason why you can book some of the smaller ships at rock bottom prices. Because they have to be for people book them. If you priced them the same as new ships loaded with all the extras, guess which one the majority of people are going to pick. I'd wager to say, it wouldn't be much different if RCI put out a brand new Vision Class ship. Priced the same, Oasis/Icon type ships would win bookings hands down. That's why RCI will continue to move forward with these ships.

Those interiors are going to have to come down a huge hunk - yowza! lol.

Lol, you make a good point. However, from what I'm hearing, it's not just a "glorified staircase," there's supposed to be more to it, just not yet revealed. Not sure it will be mind-blowing, but I'm excited to see!

I'm surprised by all the people who weren't expecting this. Why anyone would expect this ship not to be targeting the family demographic is beyond me. With that said, I don't fit that demographic, and really could do without kids running all over the place. But I'm super excited for this ship. I like the idea of having the targeting family area, and I can stay far away from it!

I think the ship is beautiful! However, people seem to expect a Cunard experience at a Royal Caribbean price.

According to royalcaribbeanblog.com, the pool is not "adult only," but geared towards adults while their kids are doing more fun things in the kiddie area. Kids aren't prohibited.

When I think of "upscale cruising," RCI doesn't come to mind. If that is the experience one is seeking, I think it's probably best to consider different lines.

Definitely disagree with the consensus then. I think this ship looks pretty innovative. It shares some similarities with Oasis class, but again, it's a cruise ship! I'd be interested to hear what people were expecting. Or even, what their ideal reveal would look like, and what would actually please some of the nay-sayers. I have a feeling there's already a ship out there that would fill those preferences.

Man, some of you are so negative. Why do you cruise if you hate it so much, let alone cruise on a line you hate some much. I am very excited for this ship! It looks beautiful! And, I'll put it out there, I dislike kids! However, I think the design and layout looks great, it gives families a family area that I don't need to go anywhere near! I'm not sure what some people were expecting. It's a cruise ship, after all, at the end of the day, it's going to have limitations. Not exactly sure what it would take for some of you to actually be excited about a new ship.

If you placed a bid, you get a confirmation email which has a link to cancel/modify your bid.

If no one has mentioned it, you can modify or change your bid anytime before 2 hours prior to departure.

We booked Jamie's Italian on Symphony, on the second formal night. A few in the group were upset that we missed lobster in the MDR lol. So something to keep in mind.

Very aware, hence the "no problems so far" disclaimer.

I've gotten this aboard, no problems so far.