Room Service No Longer Free - NCL Starts $7.95 Charge Per Order

[maywell]

I'll keep this short too. Just because a cruise line puts in it's contract terms that it can change the terms of its contract at any time does not mean that is an enforceable term. That is almost certainly a term that would be held to be unconscionable by any court and would not be enforced. You can't contract with someone and put in your contract that only one party to the contract is bound by it while the other party can do whatever the heck they want.

 

The DSC is totally different. For one, it's discretionary, and secondly they did grandfather the DSC increase in, they allowed us to prepay the DSC at the old rate when they rolled it out. The 18 percent increase on people who had purchased the UDP/UBP after they had purchased it is absolutely a problem if they didn't grandfather people in. This is a simple concept, one party to a contract is not allowed to unilaterally change the terms of the contract after the other party to the contract has already performed it's part.

 

 

But they did change the terms of agreement and if you don't like it - cancel the trip before final payment is due. And if you can't cancel, those are the breaks. *shrug*

 

For example: They already 'enforce' it on the passengers that are 'testing' out the new room service - they can either pay for it or go to free dining places. Remember, the cruise line can change the itinerary at any given time without warning, they just don't unless it regarding the weather or incident out in country they are porting at (its in the contract). NCL is only going to listen when people leave and go elsewhere; so far no one now is acting like they are but then again its Cruise Critic and it is a super small minority of the cruise population.

[denatravels]

From the FAQ what does my cruise fare include:

 

The following items are not included in the cruise fare:

 

Service Charges/Gratuities

Meals in Specialty Restaurants

Alcoholic Beverages

Sodas and some other non-alcoholic beverages

Spa and Salon Services

Exercise classes

Casino

Dining Entertainment

Transfers (unless pre-purchased with air/sea packages)

Hotel Stays pre-/post-cruise (unless pre-purchased)

Shore Excursions

Photography

Internet Access

Baby Sitting Services

Specialty Onboard Seminars

Art purchases

Gift shop purchases

Video Arcade

Phone calls off the ship

Wi/Fi & Satellite connection for tablets, phones/mobile devices

Laundry Services

Use of the Medical Center

Government taxes, port expenses, and fees

Pizza Delivery

Convenience Charge for Room Service on non-Haven Suites

 

 

I know people have said suites are not included for the service charge-- seems like that isn't true here.

(And before you tell me it isn't and they said that, I have seen the website where it says no. But here it says yes)

[shapatack0]

But they did change the terms of agreement and if you don't like it - cancel the trip before final payment is due. And if you can't cancel, those are the breaks. *shrug*

 

That's not how contracts work.

 

Remember, the cruise line can change the itinerary at any given time without warning, they just don't unless it regarding the weather or incident out in country they are porting at (its in the contract).

That is a completely different situation. There is nothing wrong with them having it written into their contract that they can change their porting due to circumstances beyond their control.

 

NCL is only going to listen when people leave and go elsewhere; so far no one now is acting like they are but then again its Cruise Critic and it is a super small minority of the cruise population.

 

I agree with you here, however I'm not so sure that this is just limited to cruisecritic. Look at their facebook page, it has been blowing up all day. I really do think this may damage them in the long run. And if they refuse to back down on it, then they deserve what they're going to get.

[richstowe]

The new menu offers an expanded selection for breakfast, in addition to a wider variety of options available 24 hours.

Specifically what does this mean . Did I miss a post that spells out what these " expanded selection "

and " a wider variety of options" actually are ?

[Uniall]

So *my* understanding is that the food itself is free, but you pay the 4.95$ or 7.95$ as a delivery charge... meaning that it would cost you 7.95$ whether you ordered just one coffee or ordered 50 coffees, right? I mean you'd pay the 7.95$ for no matter what amount of stuff you order.

 

Yes, you seem to be correct and that is exactly what is wrong with the new program.

 

The new system has converted room service into a new specialty restaurant with a service charge of $4.95 on Getaway and $7.95 on the Breakaway.

 

In addition, just like some specialty restaurants, there will also be a extra surcharge for some special menu items.

 

But, so far, this does not apply to Suites or Haven guests.

 

Get Out the Pitchforks...........

Edited March 31, 2015 by Uniall

[triptolemus]

NCL is only going to listen when people leave and go elsewhere; so far no one now is acting like they are but then again its Cruise Critic and it is a super small minority of the cruise population.

 

Here are some that are:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2189765

 

There will be more.

[princess di44]

Interesting..... Booked on the epic on a few weeks. Just happened to relook at our excursions and noticed that all 3 of them have went up in pricing. (6 to 20 bucks more per person). Glad I was already booked, but the current charges are that much higher... I just booked these excursions through norwegian last week.. All I can say is wow....

[DrNora]

I'm not your sweetie, and you're not the social chairperson for the cruises of others.

 

Thanks, lrgpizza!

Th e "sweeties" and "honey" are so condescending and wrong.

 

Yuck city USA.

[Jimmy Geegitz]

I'm sorry $7.95 is an Inconvienence fee for me.

[rpb718]

I wonder when they'll add "No charge for room service orders" to the list of suite amenities.

[denatravels]

I wonder when they'll add "No charge for room service orders" to the list of suite amenities.

 

 

I suspect never-- see my post several above this: room service for non-haven suites is not included. There are two different stories on the website for this-- I'm inclined to lean toward only haven. Someone posted an email earlier that says specifically haven is exempt- but no mention of other suites.

[Uniall]

I wonder when they'll add "No charge for room service orders" to the list of suite amenities.

 

My guess is it will also be an amenity offered to Platinum Plus when they carve out new higher Latitude Levels.

[maywell]

That's not how contracts work.

 

 

That is a completely different situation. There is nothing wrong with them having it written into their contract that they can change their porting due to circumstances beyond their control.

 

 

 

I agree with you here, however I'm not so sure that this is just limited to cruisecritic. Look at their facebook page, it has been blowing up all day. I really do think this may damage them in the long run. And if they refuse to back down on it, then they deserve what they're going to get.

 

Here's the contract: http://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Guest_Ticket_Contract_03_2014.pdf

 

Read sections 2, 3A, 5A&B, plus 10B&C; when the Escape goes on it maiden voyage later this year they will update it again. That is what people agree to when they make final payment and cruise on NCL.

[triptolemus]

I suspect never-- see my post several above this: room service for non-haven suites is not included. There are two different stories on the website for this-- I'm inclined to lean toward only haven. Someone posted an email earlier that says specifically haven is exempt- but no mention of other suites.

 

I disagree.

 

https://www.ncl.com/faq#norwegian-cruise-line-now-charging-room-service

 

Is Norwegian Cruise Line now charging for room service?

 

Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced an enhanced room service menu that is debuting on board Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway. The new menu offers an expanded selection for breakfast, in addition to a wider variety of options available 24 hours. Individual items on the menu remain available on a complimentary basis and a convenience charge of up to $7.95 will be added to each order placed (Room Service orders placed by guests sailing in Suites and The Haven will not attract a charge)*. Room service is one of up to 29 dining options offered across the fleet, and guests continue to be able to enjoy a wide array of complimentary choices onboard 24 hours a day.

 

*Prices subject to change.

Edited March 31, 2015 by triptolemus

[Uniall]

I suspect never-- see my post several above this: room service for non-haven suites is not included. There are two different stories on the website for this-- I'm inclined to lean toward only haven. Someone posted an email earlier that says specifically haven is exempt- but no mention of other suites.

 

http://www.ncl.com/faq#norwegian-cruise-line-now-charging-room-service

In Search Box Type In: room service

Click on Item:

 

Is Norwegian Cruise Line now charging for room service?

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

NCL.com frequently asked questions

Is Norwegian Cruise Line now charging for room service?

 

"Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced an enhanced room service menu that is debuting on board Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway. The new menu offers an expanded selection for breakfast, in addition to a wider variety of options available 24 hours. Individual items on the menu remain available on a complimentary basis and a convenience charge of up to $7.95 will be added to each order placed (Room Service orders placed by guests sailing in Suites and The Haven will not attract a charge)*. Room service is one of up to 29 dining options offered across the fleet, and guests continue to be able to enjoy a wide array of complimentary choices onboard 24 hours a day.

 

*Prices subject to change. "

 

denatravels

 

You are mistaken. I cut and pasted the exact verbiage used on the NCL Website for FAQ. It specifically excludes (for now) Suites & The Haven guests from the new charge.

 

John

[shapatack0]

Here's the contract: http://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Guest_Ticket_Contract_03_2014.pdf

 

Read sections 2, 3A, 5A&B, plus 10B&C; when the Escape goes on it maiden voyage later this year they will update it again. That is what people agree to when they make final payment and cruise on NCL.

 

Ok. Here's my final word on this and I guess we can agree to disagree. Just because NCL puts it in it's contract does not mean its enforceable and does not absolve them from false advertising or fraudulent business practices. Have you ever gone to an amusement park? Have you ever noticed that on the amusement park tickets it states that the park is not liable for any injuries you suffer on their rides? Ever noticed how that's also posted at the entrance to their parks? Guess what, that is totally unenforceable as well, they just put it up there to discourage valid lawsuits. You cannot write a contract in such a way that one side can unilaterally change any term that side pleases while the other side is bound and has no rights. Further, you cannot, as a business, advertise a service, accept money for that service, then take that service away AND KEEP THE MONEY YOU ACCEPTED FOR IT. That is what NCL has done here.

[SeaShark]

Ok. Here's my final word on this and I guess we can agree to disagree. Just because NCL puts it in it's contract does not mean its enforceable and does not absolve them from false advertising or fraudulent business practices. Have you ever gone to an amusement park? Have you ever noticed that on the amusement park tickets it states that the park is not liable for any injuries you suffer on their rides? Ever noticed how that's also posted at the entrance to their parks? Guess what, that is totally unenforceable as well, they just put it up there to discourage valid lawsuits. You cannot write a contract in such a way that one side can unilaterally change any term that side pleases while the other side is bound and has no rights. Further, you cannot, as a business, advertise a service, accept money for that service, then take that service away AND KEEP THE MONEY YOU ACCEPTED FOR IT. That is what NCL has done here.

 

Well, then why not just avail yourself of the legal system and do something about it? If they can't do what you claim, then file a complaint and have them charged.

 

THAT is the best way to settle the whole issue.

[patronius]

That's why there's such a thing as class action lawsuits.

[rochelle_s]

Here:

http://www.ncl.com/faq#norwegian-cruise-line-now-charging-room-service

 

They say its free but a 'convenience charge" is included for each order.

 

But last night that exact same page you are citing said this;

 

 

Meals in the complimentary dining venues, i.e.:

Two main dining rooms on every ship except Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway which have three

Buffet

24-hour Dining venue (on select ships)

Room service from 5 am to midnight (small service fee applies between midnight and 5 am)

Outdoor Buffet (on select ships)

Pool Bar and Grill (on select ships)

Coffee Bar (regular coffee and pastries included, specialty coffees at nominal extra charge)

 

And it was long before yesterday that I paid in full for my upcoming cruise in May on the Jade and my next years cruise in March on the Epic. Seeing as I am paid in full should they be allowed to change whatever they like to be, or not to be, included?

 

It makes no sense to cite a web page that has been changed to reflect what they want. They can call it a trial all they want but then why change their website as if it a permanent change. Nice use of vague terminology as well. In my opinion shameful and misleading on NCL's part just like they have been with all their other changes over the last month.

 

I really would like to know why the increase in the DSC. There should be plenty of money in the pool of funds seeing as since the beginning of the month every time they turn around they are removing people from it. The specialty restaurant servers have been removed, the cafe staff and pizza delivery folks have been removed and now the room service staff as well. When does it end? If I use room service for breakfast every day and go to a specialty restaurant every night and get sushi or something from the pastry shop around lunch time what portion of my DSC would be fair to have removed? Why should I have to contribute to the benefit of all servers when I am also being asked to pay for those that do serve me?

 

Also if I am in my cabin and I would like to order a glass of of Pinot Noir to enjoy on my balcony should it really cost me $21.34 ($10.50 + 18% + $7.95) to do so? For one glass of wine? And am I expected also to slide a couple of dollars to the fella that delivers it? Being Canadian I need to convert those numbers and am looking at paying close to $30 for a glass of wine. For those comparing these new charges to that of a hotel, first I know of no hotel that charges that much for a low end house wine and second I know of no hotel that would charge me to bring my own wine into my room. Ergo, the two cannot equitably be compared.

 

Where do we draw the line? And please don't answer with 'If you don't like it don't cruise' or 'Don't order from room service.' I have enjoyed cruising since 1989 and I have enjoyed the complimentary room service I have experienced on all the lines I have cruised with. Why do I have to make changes in my expectations for my cruises, which I have booked and paid in full? Other than the email about the changes to the DSC should I not be entitled to some sort of notification? Do we have to except every change they make without complaint?

 

I have never before thought I would adjust my DSC. Those days are over. NCL has raised everything to a higher level and I will expect a higher level of service to be reflected for this increase. For any service type issues I will bring it to their attention and I will adjust accordingly.

 

 

Rochelle

[HowardK]

Maybe I will just try RCL finally-

 

I heard the NCL is also starting with pool tags soon. Perhaps $2.95 a day or $20.00 for the week. Also loungers by the pool will have a $3.00 zone rental.

 

In terms of the Hot Dogs, they will be $1.95 with toppings $.25 as well.

 

I haven't ordered room service as typically I get OShennans to go.

 

Sounds like the new CEO is a real hit. With the COO being from NCL it is only a matter of time before the shareholders force out the CEO and he can go back to his fancy cruise line and triple their prices.

 

Next thing will be that the MDR's will have a surcharge during "prime" dining times. Also, they will likely start selling "buffet passes" to be able to cut it line.

 

Possibilities are endless as are the profits. Shares should drop drastically once no one buys into this bs and they are forced to get someone like Sheehan who actually cares about cruising.

[NYteacher]

NCL knows that it is extremely unlikely that a single client will be able to afford the legal costs of such a suit. It wouldn't make any sense financially for a single client either, one hour of representation would cost more than a week's worth of room service charges.

 

The only reasonable legal channels would be a class action suit or government action. It would also take far more energy than most people are willing to expend to fight it. That's what NCL is counting on.

 

I read the UK laws posted earlier about how the vacation services must match the brochure advertisement. I don't know if NY law has such a statute but I wouldn't be surprised if it did.

[luddite]

Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced a new enhanced room service menu that is debuting on board Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway. The new menu offers an expanded selection for breakfast in addition to a wider variety of options available on the 24 hour menu. Individual items on the menu remain available on a complimentary basis and a convenience charge of up to $7.95 will be added to each order placed. Room service is one of up to 29 dining options offered across the fleet, and guests continue to be able to enjoy a wide array of complimentary choices onboard 24 hours a day.

 

Well, we can read.

Let's hope you guys can read. The new policy isn't going over very well.

 

Calling this a 'convenience fee' should get you beaten with sticks. Repeatedly.

 

Pricing this 'convenience charge' at 7.95 rather than the obvious eight bucks should also get you.... beaten with sticks.

 

Coming here with any sort of spin other than the obvious grab should get you.....flensed. Thought I was gonna write beaten with sticks, dincha?

 

Adding a gratuity to the pay venue restaurants rather than just upping the price and paying the people.....well, there is that thing with the sticks again.

 

The new guy would seem to be hell-bent to run your company underwater just like his last outfit.

 

We've been on a lot of NCL cruises, have two booked. That will change if these new policies don't.

[maywell]

Ok. Here's my final word on this and I guess we can agree to disagree. Just because NCL puts it in it's contract does not mean its enforceable and does not absolve them from false advertising or fraudulent business practices. Have you ever gone to an amusement park? Have you ever noticed that on the amusement park tickets it states that the park is not liable for any injuries you suffer on their rides? Ever noticed how that's also posted at the entrance to their parks? Guess what, that is totally unenforceable as well, they just put it up there to discourage valid lawsuits. You cannot write a contract in such a way that one side can unilaterally change any term that side pleases while the other side is bound and has no rights. Further, you cannot, as a business, advertise a service, accept money for that service, then take that service away AND KEEP THE MONEY YOU ACCEPTED FOR IT. That is what NCL has done here.

 

If you don't agree to the contract, don't agree to it by paying it in full plus get your refund back before the final payment deadline. Regarding amusement parks, if its an injury because the park employee not fasten you in or the park knew that the ride had issue - they're liable to whomever got injure. But if you remove the safety features on your own or did something that clearly the employee said don't do it and it hurt you and/or another person - you're liable.

 

That how NCL, Royal and Carnival write up their contracts - you don't like it or how they run their business, don't sail on them. If you got grievous injure on a cruise over something that was clearly the cruise line fault - you can sue them over in Miami court. If these fees has cause you emotional distress - you can sue them over in Miami court. But remember their going to fight hard to not pay you whether or not you have a case or not.

[triptolemus]

I just love Internet lawyers.

[NYteacher]

If you don't agree to the contract, don't agree to it by paying it in full plus get your refund back before the final payment deadline. Regarding amusement parks, if its an injury because the park employee not fasten you in or the park knew that the ride had issue - they're liable to whomever got injure. But if you remove the safety features on your own or did something that clearly the employee said don't do it and it hurt you and/or another person - you're liable.

 

That how NCL, Royal and Carnival write up their contracts - you don't like it or how they run their business, don't sail on them. If you got grievous injure on a cruise over something that was clearly the cruise line fault - you can sue them over in Miami court. If these fees has cause you emotional distress - you can sue them over in Miami court. But remember their going to fight hard to not pay you whether or not you have a case or not.

 

You also have to use common sense and knowledge of the concept of deceptive advertising. None of the suite amenities are in the actual contract. Clearly if suite passengers show up and are told that there will be a convenience charge for using the concierge, butler, access to the Haven etc., there would be a deceptive advertising/fraud issue. The room service charge is the same principle. A company can not simply advertise one service, accept money for it, and then not provide the service.