Onboard Majestic Observations & Thoughts - Mexican Riviera Oct 16, 2021

[cruzin4us]

Embarkation was a breeze.   Got to the pier around 10:30, went immediately thru security, had our passports checked and then were escorted into the Platinum/Elite Lounge where we waited until about 11:05 when they opened the doors and we started boarding.  Everyone was wearing masks.  We were on the ship by 11:10 a.m.

 

Total passengers:  We were told there were only about 800 passengers aboard along with about 1250 crew.   I haven't heard the "official" totals, but I can tell you it's absolutely wonderful.  No lines, no crowds, easy to make reservations, etc.   

 

Regarding the masks:  It's kind of been getting more relaxed (not in a bad way).   Day 1 and everyone never took their masks off (for the most part).   After everyone settled in, people are wearing masks whenever it is appropriate.  I've never seen anyone not wear a mask in the elevator.  People wear masks when there are a bunch of people milling around.  It's almost like there is just common sense being used.  If there are people in a crowd, you wear a mask.  If you are wandering around and there are no people then the mask comes off.  If you see people, out of respect you put the mask on.   People sitting at the tables in the casino were wearing masks except when they took a drink.   If no one was sitting next to you at a machine, then most weren't wearing masks.  If someone sits next to you, then your mask goes back on.   Very few people wear the masks outside unless going up to a bar where there is a lot of people.

 

The Ship & Crew:  She's beautiful and well maintained.   Crew have all been pleasant and for the most part are doing an excellent job (only the cocktail servers are understaffed)....but if you order from the app, they will find you.

 

Excursions:  I can only speak regarding Cabo and this came from a gentleman that was booked on the horseback riding and pirate ship.  Both excursions were cancelled and the assumption was because there was no testing of the locals for Covid.   I may find out more later on this.

 

Medallion  & App:  Oh Lord, where to start.....I went onboard ready to fight anyone and everyone about the app.   I had so much trouble while at home with pre-made Specialty Dining reservations (Bistro never showed up on the app, even though it was paid for months in advance).     Once on board, if you don't have any computer/phone skills it can be confusing getting it set up at first.   Once it's done, it works pretty well for the most part.  The medallion itself is awesome.  You walk up to your stateroom and the door unlocks.   You use it at the slot machines to charge to your room (if desired).   I like the medallion.   The app is a little more tricky and takes a bit of getting used to.   It's great to watch your muster drill while sitting on a lounge chair sipping a pina colada.  You can order all kinds of stuff from food and drinks to bath robes.   You can order food and a lot of the food is complimentary and some has a small cover charge ($3 to $4).   You can order drinks and have them delivered to you anywhere on the ship.  This is super cool if you are a coffee drinker.  I have the drink package and they would deliver a cafe latte to me anywhere on the ship....I was in heaven.   Disadvantages:  Some beverages were listed but not necessarily available.  I'm not sure if it was a supply issue.   If you had a random drink you wanted to order (such as a margarita using a specific tequila) you couldn't do that on the app.   The biggest disadvantage to me:  Sometimes, I just didn't want to lug my phone around, especially while at the pool.   Then I needed to either go to a bar, or hunt down a cocktail server.   Personally, I think Princess could use a few more servers walking around taking orders.    Another positive about the app:   People tracking.    It's nice to be able to see the location of your friends or family.  I think the app is moving in the right direction and still has a few bugs to work out, but there are many positive things.   

 

WiFi:  I brought along my MacBook Pro Laptop and I am able to watch Netflix.  I wasn't sure I was going to be able to do this, so I'm thrilled 🙂    

 

Overall Impression:   For me personally, I'm not finding the mask wearing to be too much of a pain.   I'm one that would rather not wear one at all since we are all vaccinated and have recent covid tests.  Most people I have talked with feel the same.   However, all seem to be wearing them without complaint where it is socially responsible.    Would I choose to do a 10+ day cruise where it was mandatory 100% of the time indoors.....no way, but that's just me.  

 

Lastly:  I can't comment on the theater arrangements regarding mask wearing as I've been donating to the casino.

 

Lastly part II:  Did I mention it feels really good to be back on board a ship?   

[Fletch1]

Good review....thanks for posting. Interesting reading. 

[PaperSniper4]

2 hours ago, Fletch1 said:

Good review....thanks for posting. Interesting reading. 

Ditto, very good to hear feedback from someone under way now.

 

Doug

 

PS - Anyone else have to log off this forum, then log back on before they can post a reply? This has happened to me many times in the last 2-3 weeks.

[DUCHESSRN]

I am on board also … how wonderful everything is.

Please remember to try Key Lime Pie from room service and the Coconut Mojito from the Good Spirits Bar deck 7.

Mixed answers of how many on Board…

[CineGraphic]

4 hours ago, cruzin4us said:

.I went onboard ready to fight anyone and everyone about the app. 

 

I know this feeling all too well.....I've got 19 days to calm down before we board.

Then again, Princess has had 6+ months to fix the problems I'm experienceing and so far, they've failed. None the less, I refuse to spend all 7 days being grumpy or angry. That's not my idea of a vacation.

 

[Musky Ike]

5 hours ago, cruzin4us said:

It's almost like there is just common sense being used. 

Wow, that is unusual 😃. Thanks for the info and faith in human nature.

[PaperSniper4]

22 minutes ago, Musky Ike said:

Wow, that is unusual 😃. Thanks for the info and faith in human nature.

Scary.....what would happen if EVERYONE used common sense!🤔

 

Doug

[cruzin4us]

Now that I'm awake, I will add a few more things:

 

Medallion App/Crew Chat:   There is also a place called "Crew Chat" where you can ask the crew a specific question.   Mine was "what's the phone # to the Lotus Spa".   They answered within a few seconds.

 

 

[cruzin4us]

More on Drink Ordering:  In this particular example, I want to order a Bloody Caesar.  You open the app, click on the service icon on the main page and you click on whatever it is you want to order.   In this case I clicked on beverages.   Then I clicked "Bloody Mary".   Once the Bloody Mary opened, it gave me a slew of Bloody Mary's to choose from.  In my case I opened the Bloody Caesar.  Then it even allowed me to pick which level of spiciness.   In the upper left, it shows where it is being delivered.  In this case it's my stateroom.    This is very convenient and part of the app that I love.

Edited October 18, 2021 by cruzin4us

[Sea Hag]

21 minutes ago, cruzin4us said:

Now that I'm awake, I will add a few more things:

 

Medallion App/Crew Chat:   There is also a place called "Crew Chat" where you can ask the crew a specific question.   Mine was "what's the phone # to the Lotus Spa".   They answered within a few seconds.

I had a couple of good experiences with crew chat on our August cruise. They do get back to you right away, and both times they were very helpful. I like this feature.

[cruzin4us]

Steps to order a specialty coffee delivered to room:   These are the steps I used to order a Flat White Coffee delivered to my stateroom.   Time from order to delivery was and I kid you not.....3 MINUTES.   Amazing.   For this reason alone, I love the app.   No more hanging out the tag on the door at night and trying to figure out what time I want it delivered and no more jumping out of bed when I hear "room service".   

 

Also, you are able to modify your drink which is super nice.  You can choose the milk type, syrup, etc.

[yoshi]

Cruzin4us,

Thank you for your live posts & comments, we are looking forward to an upcoming December Majestic Mexican Riviera cruise too.

I am interested in your excursion comment copied below:

Excursions:  I can only speak regarding Cabo and this came from a gentleman that was booked on the horseback riding and pirate ship.  Both excursions were cancelled and the assumption was because there was no testing of the locals for Covid.   I may find out more later on this.

 

Can you let us know if any of the ship excursions are possible or if we are allowed to book private, non-ship excursions in the ports?

Enjoy the remainder of your cruise, I hope it is healthy and wonderful!

[travelingbears]

Thanks for the info.  So just to make sure I understand correctly.  You can order Specialty coffees, or other drinks,  and they are delivered to you anywhere, even in your cabin, at no charge if you have the drinks package?

 

Thanks again,

[CruzinNoony]

Do you tip when they deliver the item?

[CineGraphic]

50 minutes ago, CruzinNoony said:

Do you tip when they deliver the item?

 

If you have the drink package, the gratuity is part of the package.

[I object 2]

3 hours ago, CineGraphic said:

 

I know this feeling all too well.....I've got 19 days to calm down before we board.

Then again, Princess has had 6+ months to fix the problems I'm experienceing and so far, they've failed. None the less, I refuse to spend all 7 days being grumpy or angry. That's not my idea of a vacation.

 

 

Love  your attitude after all you've been through with the app.  I've been working with the app and Medallion folks since June.  None of our upcoming cruises are listed so we can't do anything with them.  One in January and 2 in April.  When my DH logs in, my photo shows up under his name.   Cruises for 2023 are listed....go figure.  LOL      

 

Have a great vacation!

[Steelers36]

2 hours ago, PaperSniper4 said:

Scary.....what would happen if EVERYONE used common sense!🤔

 

Doug

That should include PCL as well.  😇

[Cruise Raider]

4 hours ago, PaperSniper4 said:

 

 

PS - Anyone else have to log off this forum, then log back on before they can post a reply? This has happened to me many times in the last 2-3 weeks.

 

We had to log off this forum to use the MedallionClass app .. and not just while on the ship but, at home as well.  It happens to me every single time I used the app.  

Funny that you also mentioned that.  They must share some file and one is a different version .. it used to happen to me at work all the time as well.  

[Cruise Raider]

9 hours ago, cruzin4us said:

Embarkation was a breeze.   Got to the pier around 10:30, went immediately thru security, had our passports checked and then were escorted into the Platinum/Elite Lounge where we waited until about 11:05 when they opened the doors and we started boarding.  Everyone was wearing masks.  We were on the ship by 11:10 a.m.

 

Total passengers:  We were told there were only about 800 passengers aboard along with about 1250 crew.   I haven't heard the "official" totals, but I can tell you it's absolutely wonderful.  No lines, no crowds, easy to make reservations, etc.   

 

Regarding the masks:  It's kind of been getting more relaxed (not in a bad way).   Day 1 and everyone never took their masks off (for the most part).   After everyone settled in, people are wearing masks whenever it is appropriate.  I've never seen anyone not wear a mask in the elevator.  People wear masks when there are a bunch of people milling around.  It's almost like there is just common sense being used.  If there are people in a crowd, you wear a mask.  If you are wandering around and there are no people then the mask comes off.  If you see people, out of respect you put the mask on.   People sitting at the tables in the casino were wearing masks except when they took a drink.   If no one was sitting next to you at a machine, then most weren't wearing masks.  If someone sits next to you, then your mask goes back on.   Very few people wear the masks outside unless going up to a bar where there is a lot of people.

 

The Ship & Crew:  She's beautiful and well maintained.   Crew have all been pleasant and for the most part are doing an excellent job (only the cocktail servers are understaffed)....but if you order from the app, they will find you.

 

Excursions:  I can only speak regarding Cabo and this came from a gentleman that was booked on the horseback riding and pirate ship.  Both excursions were cancelled and the assumption was because there was no testing of the locals for Covid.   I may find out more later on this.

 

Medallion  & App:  Oh Lord, where to start.....I went onboard ready to fight anyone and everyone about the app.   I had so much trouble while at home with pre-made Specialty Dining reservations (Bistro never showed up on the app, even though it was paid for months in advance).     Once on board, if you don't have any computer/phone skills it can be confusing getting it set up at first.   Once it's done, it works pretty well for the most part.  The medallion itself is awesome.  You walk up to your stateroom and the door unlocks.   You use it at the slot machines to charge to your room (if desired).   I like the medallion.   The app is a little more tricky and takes a bit of getting used to.   It's great to watch your muster drill while sitting on a lounge chair sipping a pina colada.  You can order all kinds of stuff from food and drinks to bath robes.   You can order food and a lot of the food is complimentary and some has a small cover charge ($3 to $4).   You can order drinks and have them delivered to you anywhere on the ship.  This is super cool if you are a coffee drinker.  I have the drink package and they would deliver a cafe latte to me anywhere on the ship....I was in heaven.   Disadvantages:  Some beverages were listed but not necessarily available.  I'm not sure if it was a supply issue.   If you had a random drink you wanted to order (such as a margarita using a specific tequila) you couldn't do that on the app.   The biggest disadvantage to me:  Sometimes, I just didn't want to lug my phone around, especially while at the pool.   Then I needed to either go to a bar, or hunt down a cocktail server.   Personally, I think Princess could use a few more servers walking around taking orders.    Another positive about the app:   People tracking.    It's nice to be able to see the location of your friends or family.  I think the app is moving in the right direction and still has a few bugs to work out, but there are many positive things.   

 

WiFi:  I brought along my MacBook Pro Laptop and I am able to watch Netflix.  I wasn't sure I was going to be able to do this, so I'm thrilled 🙂    

 

Overall Impression:   For me personally, I'm not finding the mask wearing to be too much of a pain.   I'm one that would rather not wear one at all since we are all vaccinated and have recent covid tests.  Most people I have talked with feel the same.   However, all seem to be wearing them without complaint where it is socially responsible.    Would I choose to do a 10+ day cruise where it was mandatory 100% of the time indoors.....no way, but that's just me.  

 

Lastly:  I can't comment on the theater arrangements regarding mask wearing as I've been donating to the casino.

 

Lastly part II:  Did I mention it feels really good to be back on board a ship?   

 

Excellent review!!!  We felt much the same when sailing on the Majestic back in July.  The app ... what can I say?  We loved it when we got on the ship!!  There are still a few bugs but that is to be expected.  

We feel exactly the same way about the masking ... just show a little respect for others when in a crowded venue.  It's not that devastating as people make it out to be.  Oh ... and that room service (or anywhere on the ship that you want service) is fantastic!!  We learned that they no longer have you sign a slip so we just put a stack of $1's and $5's in the drawer for the delivery staff.  Anyway, more than a couple of times, we ordered a Caesar salad and those chicken fingers off the kids menu ... they were absolutely delicious.  We'd head out to the balcony and make our own chicken Caesar salads.  They were amazing!!  Add some chips and guac, order a couple of glasses of wine ... my goodness, I was in my heaven!  

 

Will follow to see any updates you have ... 

[Cruise Raider]

1 hour ago, travelingbears said:

Thanks for the info.  So just to make sure I understand correctly.  You can order Specialty coffees, or other drinks,  and they are delivered to you anywhere, even in your cabin, at no charge if you have the drinks package?

 

Thanks again,

 

Yes ... the caveat is that, even though both passengers in your cabin may have the drink package, you have to order two drinks separately, so as not to be charged for the second one.  Sometimes they are delivered at the same time, sometimes separately.  But, you can always call for room service and order them both at the same time.  

 

[rj59]

I’m on Majestic too. Front desk said around 1,800 passengers. No signs of sip and cover in Vista or main showroom. Nobody in front row at either venue was wearing a mask last night. Some people ignoring mask rule in elevators…one woman said “we’re from Florida” when a guy asked her to mask up. But you know, I don’t mind, nobody’s going to kill me, I like being treated as an adult, with no mask police patrolling shows. 

[Steelers36]

6 hours ago, PaperSniper4 said:

PS - Anyone else have to log off this forum, then log back on before they can post a reply? This has happened to me many times in the last 2-3 weeks.

All the time.  I get logged out by CC after what seems like minutes.  

[PaperSniper4]

6 minutes ago, Steelers36 said:

All the time.  I get logged out by CC after what seems like minutes.  

Thanks. Never noticed it happening until the last couple of weeks. Wonder if it's a glitch, or something new CC is doing....................

Oddly enough, when it happens my screen still says I'm logged on, but if I log out, then immediately back onto CC I can post. Weird.

[WAussieSFO]

We too are onboard. Boarding was a breeze even though our Princess.com and Medallion Class accounts are messed up. Upon boarding we went straight to Customer Services as instructed by Security to get a new medallion for my husband. We were helped by the very lovely Marina who remembered us from our Alaska cruise as we had the same medallion issues back in August. While DH was being helped I called the dine line to get on the list for the Chefs Table and am happy to report that there is at least one Chefs Table this sailing and we are on it. DH took the opportunity to ask Marina if there was any chance of an upgrade and lucky for us the request was granted. We went from a standard balcony a mini suite, same deck better location.

 

DH’s medallion has been working fine since getting things sorted at boarding, although we did have a funny incident yesterday. DH had gone out to a hot tub and ordered a beer at the same time I was trying to locate him. His location on the app showed him at customer services, when I got there he wasn’t there but there was a waiter with a beer looking for someone with the same first name of DH. So asked if it was DH he was looking for and of course it was. I was able to eventually get hold of DH via messenger to let him know I had his beer. For some reason there was another new medallion at customer services.

 

We had been told that this sailing has about 1500 guests, Kevin the CD mentioned last night we are at 55% of capacity.

 

We’re in Cabo today and we started the day with latte’s ordered through the app. They were delivered to our cabin in record time. DH had an issue once again with his medallion boarding the tender so we will visit the lovely Marina in customer services later today. Marina was on the tender with us so knows already knows there is an issue.

[Steelers36]

7 minutes ago, PaperSniper4 said:

Thanks. Never noticed it happening until the last couple of weeks. Wonder if it's a glitch, or something new CC is doing....................

Oddly enough, when it happens my screen still says I'm logged on, but if I log out, then immediately back onto CC I can post. Weird.

Yes, same here.  But they don't like us complaining.