Early Del Rio Legacy vs the Sheehan Legacy

[janpo]

They are putting scrubbers on their ships to improve the environment.

 

That's what you got for all the changes they've done these last few months?

 

They are replacing the scrubbers with what should have been put on in the first place because they have to.

[janpo]

And most people on this thread have never met or spoken with FDR (I have). Additionally, the posters that it appears that NCL customers want to shut up are the ones that have years of experience cruising with companies that have been run by Apollo and Frank Del Rio. We understand changes - we have at least some understanding of the type of man FDR is and where he is coming from.

 

Mostly what I read on the NCL board is name calling (FDR and anyone that has a kind word to say about him). Anyone that likes Sheehan is fine - unless you remember the cuts he put forth and was disliked for.

 

The bottom line is that sailing on NCL does not give you experience with the current management. It does not necessarily tell you what NCL was like a few years ago and what NCL will be like next year.

 

If you reread some of the posts on this page, you'll fine NCL cruisers that still like the product and will continue sailing on NCL. As they have indicated, if you are unhappy with NCL, there are other choices. Thanks abe3 and maywell for your sensible posts:)

 

Jane Don: It is a benefit for some passengers to have closed loop cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port) as these passengers do not have to have a passport (I think everyone should have one but it is a financial issue for some passengers with families).

 

So, let me get this straight...you have spoken to FDR personally at some time or another and because of that....you are an expert of all that is known of NCL ships even though personally you have NEVER set foot on one.

 

I have personally spoken to many people in different fields at one time or another...again..that doesn't make me or YOU an expert at anything.

 

You spend your time posting on a board of a cruise line you've never sailed spreading your knowledge. Now, that's funny.

[Demonyte]

You spend your time posting on a board of a cruise line you've never sailed spreading your knowledge. Now, that's funny.

 

And that is how we can easily identify our FDR fanboys/girls. ;)

[Jane Don]

They started installing but someone made the decision, for the good of the long term, to switch from an open to closed loop - whatever that means. So everything was wrong and had to be redone. They missed the EPA deadlines and waivers to burn the low quality fuel were revoked. NCL told investors that they anticipate the higher grade fuel to cost an extra 10 million. Hence, in an attempt to mitigate that cost, the boats will to move slower until they can burn the dirtier fuel again.

 

Essentially, there was some poor decision making early in the process but nobody knows why. Now, instead of the shareholders eating it, the customers are. How many 18% service charges equal 10 million?

 

Most of this was explained in the Q2 conference call.

 

I want to make it clear, especially for Travelcat2 that the closed loop mentioned here has nothing to do with ports. I quote someone who knows more about this than I care to learn,

 

"On ships, scrubbers work on the principle of spraying seawater as mist into the exhaust gases to neutralize the acids. In an open-loop scrubber, the wastewater is discharged overboard, where the natural alkalinity of the seawater neutralizes the acidic discharge. In a closed-loop scrubber, the washwater is mixed with a strong alkaline (caustic), which reacts with the acidic (sulfur) particles. The waste is then stored on board in sludge tanks for later disposal onshore."

 

Many ports require closed loop systems. CCL developed a proprietary hybrid system so they could switch while at sea. Many ports, especially in Europe, require a closed loop or you can't sail there. I underreported the economic impact as well. See for more on that: http://www.seatrade-cruise.com/news/news-headlines/ncl-scrubber-installation-delay-spells-higher-fuel-costs.html

Edited August 12, 2015 by Jane Don

[maywell]

There is a reason Kevin is so well liked by NCL cruisers, he didn't have an over inflated view of himself and he never said or treated anyone with disdain, can your friend say the same? No because he feels all passengers are cattle/captive audiences.

I do not see him having the same goodwill of the people when he leaves NCL.

 

HAHA!! That's rich, because last year when I joined, some of you defecated on Sheehan for nickel & diming, high fares, milk runs, not having enough Breakaway-class / having too many Breakaway-class ships, no lobster in the MDR, service cuts / longer wait for service, horrible food everywhere, waterdown drinks, claiming the DSC was too high, saying it low budget & low class just like Walmart - I'm sure I missed a couple. Literally, all of that was 2014.

 

My goodness, what a difference 8 months make in 2015- Now you miss because now you realize after the fact, how good you probably had it under Sheehan. Now Del Rio is in charge, while some of you have it so bad under the new guy that you're complaining just as much as you spat on Sheenan last year and previous years (check out old threads, if still around, of people complaining about Sheenan and his ways).

 

 

Others have actually benefited under Del Rio, just not you - that's the beauty of the cruise line market, when one line is not up to par to one's liking, there's always another that is and will gladly take your money. But some of you don't know how to do that - you're still waiting to see if Del Rio will change it around back to old way for you sail again. Here's the thing - it similar to how Sheenan change stuff and it stay, guess what? These changes are staying as well - guess you're going to sail on NCL next year and years after despite the changes. Or stay holding your breath til you turn blue - but I highly doubt you can hold it to 2017. That's thing I love about the CC forums - stay moaning & groaning but still paying the money to the hated accursed company anyway for vacation, HA!

[Casino Comp Chick]

So you don't like to help the environment by cutting port time?

 

No, let the big corporations that are saturating the environment with crap worry about it and let them use the money they pay the high priced lobbiests that fight our government on emissions requirements.

[Casino Comp Chick]

HAHA!! That's rich, because last year when I joined, some of you defecated on Sheehan for nickel & diming, high fares, milk runs, not having enough Breakaway-class / having too many Breakaway-class ships, no lobster in the MDR, service cuts / longer wait for service, horrible food everywhere, waterdown drinks, claiming the DSC was too high, saying it low budget & low class just like Walmart - I'm sure I missed a couple. Literally, all of that was 2014.

 

My goodness, what a difference 8 months make in 2015- Now you miss because now you realize after the fact, how good you probably had it under Sheehan. Now Del Rio is in charge, while some of you have it so bad under the new guy that you're complaining just as much as you spat on Sheenan last year and previous years (check out old threads, if still around, of people complaining about Sheenan and his ways).

 

 

Others have actually benefited under Del Rio, just not you - that's the beauty of the cruise line market, when one line is not up to par to one's liking, there's always another that is and will gladly take your money. But some of you don't know how to do that - you're still waiting to see if Del Rio will change it around back to old way for you sail again. Here's the thing - it similar to how Sheenan change stuff and it stay, guess what? These changes are staying as well - guess you're going to sail on NCL next year and years after despite the changes. Or stay holding your breath til you turn blue - but I highly doubt you can hold it to 2017. That's thing I love about the CC forums - stay moaning & groaning but still paying the money to the hated accursed company anyway for vacation, HA!

I didn't complain about him, you must have me confused with someone else.

:p

[sparks1093]

Ditto, that's the beauty of the cruise industry in general - No one line fits all. Personally, I feel NCL gives people the choice of a bare-bones cruise with options to add on top if they want and that okay with me because i just mostly want a bare-bones cruise. If I want specialty dining of just a main entree only without being charged for 3 course meal cover charge - they finally give it. If I just want to dine completely in the complimentary places at anytime/ anywhere I want - I can do that.

 

Royal can do that as well with anytime plus activities as well and perhaps down the road in the near future, i cruise with them. But I'm liking NCL product especially for the solo travelers on Breakaway-class ships more - it just gives me more for lower / similar price. :)

 

I predict that Del Rio will be addressing the solo travelers next, probably by charging more for the studios. After all there is only one of you to get his precious $4 or $5 more per day;).

[sparks1093]

The New NCL is supposed to make a better environment for their customers. Yes, scrubbers helps the earth's environment, but does nothing for the people on board. So, can you please answer the question about how all the new changes improve the environment on board the ship for their customers.

 

How does shorter port times make for a better sailing? How does room service fees help make for a better sailing? How does lack of communication give us better customer service? Just a couple of questions for those that say how much better NCL is now since the new management took over. If you really believe it, and see the differences, give me some specifics.

 

Shorter port times increase onboard spending in the bars and casinos.

[LrgPizza]

I just want to point out that every time someone repeats the "captive audience" statement and discusses things FDR has said, they are kind of proving his point.

[abe3]

This whole thread sounds like a presidential debate. Full of BS and bashers that complain about the little things and not going to be happy no matter what NCL does.

 

Maywell is right this is great publicity for NCL and the very cruisers that are bashing their line keep coming back to cruise their ships. Must not be much better on other lines. NCL must be doing something right.

Edited August 12, 2015 by abe3

[maywell]

I predict that Del Rio will be addressing the solo travelers next, probably by charging more for the studios. After all there is only one of you to get his precious $4 or $5 more per day;).

 

You do know that 1) studio rooms are small percentage of overall rooms types on the Breakaway-class ships and 2) already pay a higher fare anyway for the room and the lounge (I winded up being lucky for this year & especially next, for booking super early with the low fares I got - I highly doubt the last-minute low fares are coming back anytime soon). Mostly, Del Rio already have the $4-5 from soloers anyway in one form or another, either excursions, spas, casinos, specialty dining, shopping, or just from the fares alone.

[abe3]

That's what you got for all the changes they've done these last few months?

 

They are replacing the scrubbers with what should have been put on in the first place because they have to.

 

 

I love the new room service menu. Has some great options if I decide to be lazy, but I have no problem walking to the buffet and getting food to take back to the room if I please, but I usually sail in suites so I don't miss the opportunity either going to the haven or cagneys for breakfast because it is fabulous and relaxing experience with great service and wonderful food.

 

I like what NCL is doing going to Asia and brining their brand to a new market and opening up new ports for people that like to cruise NCL.

 

I like what NCL is doing with the Sky and making it all inclusive. I hope it works out because I think an all inclusive would be great.

[SuiteCruiser]

HAHA!! That's rich, because last year when I joined, some of you defecated on Sheehan for nickel & diming, high fares, milk runs, not having enough Breakaway-class / having too many Breakaway-class ships, no lobster in the MDR, service cuts / longer wait for service, horrible food everywhere, waterdown drinks, claiming the DSC was too high, saying it low budget & low class just like Walmart - I'm sure I missed a couple. Literally, all of that was 2014.

 

My goodness, what a difference 8 months make in 2015- Now you miss because now you realize after the fact, how good you probably had it under Sheehan. Now Del Rio is in charge, while some of you have it so bad under the new guy that you're complaining just as much as you spat on Sheenan last year and previous years (check out old threads, if still around, of people complaining about Sheenan and his ways).

 

 

Others have actually benefited under Del Rio, just not you - that's the beauty of the cruise line market, when one line is not up to par to one's liking, there's always another that is and will gladly take your money. But some of you don't know how to do that - you're still waiting to see if Del Rio will change it around back to old way for you sail again. Here's the thing - it similar to how Sheenan change stuff and it stay, guess what? These changes are staying as well - guess you're going to sail on NCL next year and years after despite the changes. Or stay holding your breath til you turn blue - but I highly doubt you can hold it to 2017. That's thing I love about the CC forums - stay moaning & groaning but still paying the money to the hated accursed company anyway for vacation, HA!

 

Either you weren't here or you have very selective memory. Were there a few people compaining from cruises? Of Course!!!

 

Was the majority of long time loyal cruisers unhappy? No, they weren't. Are they now? Yes, they are. It's totally different.

 

I can count 5 people on here that either like the changes (not sure how, nothing has improved life on the ships) or are too stubborn to change their minds once the facts are presented and feel they need to keep waving their pompoms.

[maywell]

I just want to point out that every time someone repeats the "captive audience" statement and discusses things FDR has said, they are kind of proving his point.

 

 

This whole thread sounds like a presidential debate. Full of BS and bashers that complain about the little things and not going to be happy no matter what NCL does.

 

Maywell is right this is great publicity for NCL and the very cruisers that are bashing their line keep coming back to cruise their ships. Must not be much better in other lines. NCL must be doing something right.

 

 

I know, I know - that's why I find the complaining here so humorous. Because the complainers keep fattening NCL bottom-line anyway while being free advertisement for them. Notice that the people that genuinely have a problem with NCL, state their piece and just sail with another line without making a big production of "I can't stand them'.

 

The only way to not be 'captive' on a ship and buy onboard is by not paying the deposit and fare anyway - So how did NCL get these people captive in the 1st place? I mean, its not as if NCL is paying them to vacation on the Jewel or the GEM. Even with CAS, you still have to cough about hundreds or thousands in casino play to even get a cruise with NCL - so its not free because its still coming out of the complainer's wallet. So how is NCL holding them hostage again? Can't even use the CruiseNext excuse because you still have to get on the ship 1st to buy it anyway - I mean, how can one not laugh or smile at the absurdity, when you think about it for a good second?

[LMaxwell]

I predict that Del Rio will be addressing the solo travelers next, probably by charging more for the studios. After all there is only one of you to get his precious $4 or $5 more per day;).

 

Actually there has been internal discussions on increasing DSC for solos anywhere from 50% to 100%. You heard it here first.

[Casino Comp Chick]

Actually there has been internal discussions on increasing DSC for solos anywhere from 50% to 100%. You heard it here first.

 

You forgot to add "for their convenience"

[LMaxwell]

You forgot to add "for their convenience"

I know that line likes to be joked about here, but the reality is it has been a real topic of discussion focusing on the percentage and whether people already booked would be grandfathered (not likely).

[SuiteCruiser]

I know that line likes to be joked about here, but the reality is it has been a real topic of discussion focusing on the percentage and whether people already booked would be grandfathered (not likely).

 

Lovely. I can see the cabin steward does the same work for one as for two, but not sure about the rest, as you're only having one meal. Outside of studios most solos are already paying twice the fare as a single supplement.

[maywell]

Either you weren't here or you have very selective memory. Were there a few people compaining from cruises? Of Course!!!

 

Was the majority of long time loyal cruisers unhappy? No, they weren't. Are they now? Yes, they are. It's totally different.

 

I can count 5 people on here that either like the changes (not sure how, nothing has improved life on the ships) or are too stubborn to change their minds once the facts are presented and feel they need to keep waving their pompoms.

 

Those same people that was 'loyal' before also spat at Sheenan when he made his changes. What happen? Some realize Sheenan wasn't budging an inch and winded up 'kissing' that tush over the years, just like they going to do to Del Rio in the upcoming years (Some people need YEARS to handle change). While others, just been consistently complaining about NCL regarding financials & whatnot - they haven't changed at all since then.

 

Watch that number 'grow' :rolleyes: when some of complainers finally get a clue especially regarding the a la carte dining and the SDP. Can't roll my eyes enough nor snicker - its like they discover the wheel, fire or something. :rolleyes:

[SuiteCruiser]

 

The only way to not be 'captive' on a ship and buy onboard is by not paying the deposit and fare anyway - So how did NCL get these people captive in the 1st place? I mean, its not as if NCL is paying them to vacation on the Jewel or the GEM. Even with CAS, you still have to cough about hundreds or thousands in casino play to even get a cruise with NCL - so its not free because its still coming out of the complainer's wallet. So how is NCL holding them hostage again? Can't even use the CruiseNext excuse because you still have to get on the ship 1st to buy it anyway - I mean, how can one not laugh or smile at the absurdity, when you think about it for a good second?

 

How about final payment due date has passed? How about FCC's bought long before the CruiseNext program even started?

 

How about speaking up and letting people find out what's actually going on, so they're prepared when they get on board, isn't that what this place is all about?

[maywell]

I know that line likes to be joked about here, but the reality is it has been a real topic of discussion focusing on the percentage and whether people already booked would be grandfathered (not likely).

 

Considering that market is actually growing - I'm not really surprised by that. A soloer is going to cough up the cash to travel, no matter what - Its just nice that NCL has setup an area of about 50-something cabins for solo travelers on Breakaway-class ships.

[maywell]

I am still trying to figure out why you and maywell and motley care that people criticize Del Rio and NCL. How does it take away from your experience?

 

Hey, you guys were complaining about Sheenan so badly last year, I almost canceled my trip. Glad i didn't because I got to see for myself, that some on CC NCL forum just like to whine and moan (saw that last year), no matter who's in charge (seeing the 'difference' this year :rolleyes:). If anything, makes me anticipate my trips even more - so continue complaining over here, I going to enjoy my NCL vacations! :p

[abe3]

I am still trying to figure out why you and maywell and motley care that people criticize Del Rio and NCL. How does it take away from your experience?

 

 

Nothing Del Rio has done has taken away from my experience with NCL.

[Casino Comp Chick]

Nothing Del Rio has done has taken away from my experience with NCL.

 

I can see that by your completed cruise dates hahahaha

 

Nothing Del Rio has done has taken away from my experience with NCL.

__________________

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