Star Vs. Sky Class

[topnole]

Never mind. I assume you meant Newcastle Brown Ale

[John&LaLa]

3 hours ago, topnole said:

NBA?

 

Newcastle Brown Ale

[John&LaLa]

3 hours ago, topnole said:

I’ll be doing this exact thing and a CLS on harmony later in the year. It was between that and an owner suite but we have kids so the two bathroom is a huge benefit.  i’m curious what it is about the owner suite that is so much nicer to you?  I assume it’s that it’s just one story and more space as well as a bigger balcony. Is there anything else?  We could switch to an owner suite so I’m just kind of curious.
 

 

Just not a fan of the narrow cabin. Plus the stairs, go figure. No bidet. But neither does Odyssey OS. Don't understand why there is no curtain on the side of the upstairs.

 

And we had fairly rough seas and the cabin creaked a lot. 

 

I did like the big table that slid downstairs. Balcony was nice. FWIW we Royal Upped from an OS on Symphony trip.

[topnole]

1 hour ago, John&LaLa said:

 

Just not a fan of the narrow cabin. Plus the stairs, go figure. No bidet. But neither does Odyssey OS. Don't understand why there is no curtain on the side of the upstairs.

 

And we had fairly rough seas and the cabin creaked a lot. 

 

I did like the big table that slid downstairs. Balcony was nice. FWIW we Royal Upped from an OS on Symphony trip.

Appreciate the feedback.  I do see what you are saying about the narrowness.  We’ve done a CL on Harmony before, but never an OS.  I was tempted to do an OS, but my wife wants the two bathrooms and the proximity to CK because we have kids.  Unfortunately no other suites were available that were suitable like a 2br suite.  Too bad OS don’t have more than one bathroom.  Some day I wonder if other non-2 bedroom suites will at least add an additional half bath.  So much extra room in one like an OS.  

[Painter4me]

On 3/5/2022 at 2:43 PM, orville99 said:

To us the genie is like a dog in heat, always following behind and sniffing for signs of tipping opportunities. We can do without that, and we get everything we enjoy about suites from the CLS. They are the best suites (IMO) on the ship for comfort vs price.

Yes, if we had the Genie, he or she would get the week off.  I don’t need or want someone following us around. We do enjoy the CLS and the Suite Lounge. Best trip ever.

[John&LaLa]

36 minutes ago, topnole said:

Appreciate the feedback.  I do see what you are saying about the narrowness.  We’ve done a CL on Harmony before, but never an OS.  I was tempted to do an OS, but my wife wants the two bathrooms and the proximity to CK because we have kids.  Unfortunately no other suites were available that were suitable like a 2br suite.  Too bad OS don’t have more than one bathroom.  Some day I wonder if other non-2 bedroom suites will at least add an additional half bath.  So much extra room in one like an OS.  

 

The Odyssey OS has two baths. One is just a half, though. But the deck is shallow, no loungers. And the automated lights and shades are cool. Also a really big rectangular dining table

[topnole]

9 minutes ago, Painter4me said:

Yes, if we had the Genie, he or she would get the week off.  I don’t need or want someone following us around. We do enjoy the CLS and the Suite Lounge. Best trip ever.

Lol.  That is a weird narrative that developed.  They don’t follow you around.  They might meet you at the entrance to the theater and escort you to your front row seats however.  I can tell you that is a perk that is tremendously valuable.  Saves so much time with planning and getting there early for seats.  Just show up 5 minutes before show time and go right to the seats that are saved for you (and a server comes right to you to get your drink order). 
 

The genies balance serving as a concierge on steroids for about 4 cabins each.  They are extremely busy.  They don’t just cater to one group and follow them around. They do there best to be present when needed or out of sight if not needed.  If I had unlimited resources I  would book Star class ever time. 

[topnole]

24 minutes ago, John&LaLa said:

 

The Odyssey OS has two baths. One is just a half, though. But the deck is shallow, no loungers. And the automated lights and shades are cool. Also a really big rectangular dining table

Interesting.  Not sure I’ll ever do that class ship, but I’m glad I know that option is out there.  
 

My favorites are the aqua suites.  I don’t mind the walk and the balconies are hard to beat.  Of course the 2BR version aren’t exactly budget friendly, but every once in a while it is doable for us.   Our next is the deck 8 version on Allure, then later in summer an ultra spacious interior (steerage), and then finish the year with a Harmony CLS (assuming we don’t change it to a OS).  This will get me to the magical 340 if my math is correct. Then we will be strategizing for single rooms for me (I’m the point leader) and a second cabin for the family if we aren’t in a suite.   
 

Thanks again for the info on the OS.  

Edited March 31, 2022 by topnole

[SwissMiss USA]

On 3/6/2022 at 8:03 AM, gingersvp said:

 

It doesn't have to be quite that over the top. Our Genie checked in on us at dinner but didn't actually escort us to dinner nor order us drinks, etc. We were traveling with a larger group not in Star class and I didn't really want to advertise a lot of the extras we received, so she did a lot behind the scenes but wasn't super extravagant with displays. 

 

For priority embarkation and disembarkation, we were quietly led to our room/off the ship. 

By any chance did you have Hannah? @gingersvp

Edited March 31, 2022 by SwissMiss USA

[Luxury mermaid]

Regarding the alcohol package and specialty dining, does this include the gratuities or no?

[Ret MP]

On 3/5/2022 at 1:43 PM, orville99 said:

To us the genie is like a dog in heat, always following behind and sniffing for signs of tipping opportunities. 

I have never, ever experienced that.  I'd like to know what Genie(s) gave you that impression.  What I've noticed is that they show up at many venues to make sure you get into the venue and are served properly, and all is well.  This is literally the first negative comment I've ever read about a genie(s), at least not like that.  I've read a couple and only a couple that people didn't think they got enough attention from their Genie.  But never about too much attention.  

 

But, you are entitled to you own opinion and expectations.  

[Ret MP]

On 3/30/2022 at 8:46 PM, topnole said:

Lol.  That is a weird narrative that developed.  They don’t follow you around.  They might meet you at the entrance to the theater and escort you to your front row seats however.  I can tell you that is a perk that is tremendously valuable.  Saves so much time with planning and getting there early for seats.  Just show up 5 minutes before show time and go right to the seats that are saved for you (and a server comes right to you to get your drink order). 
 

The genies balance serving as a concierge on steroids for about 4 cabins each.  They are extremely busy.  They don’t just cater to one group and follow them around. They do there best to be present when needed or out of sight if not needed.  If I had unlimited resources I  would book Star class ever time. 

YES!!!!

[Ret MP]

On 3/5/2022 at 7:58 PM, HicksRA said:

About the only thing I wouldn’t want relative to Star Class would be a genie. I’d feel like I was being led around by a babysitter. I recently spent two weeks in a CLS close to the Star Suite and saw the genie constantly leading everyone around, escorting them to dinner, seating them at shows and ordering their drinks in front of everyone kind of making a spectacle of the guests.  

I know this would be desirable for some, but I prefer my own privacy and enjoying my cruise on my own. 
Not knocking others who like that sort of thing, just not for me. 

And if you don't want the Genie to escort you to places, you can tell him/her not to.  But, all the other amenities will be done and much more than what is listed in the Star Class Amenities list. Much more.

[AshleyDillo]

2 hours ago, Luxury mermaid said:

Regarding the alcohol package and specialty dining, does this include the gratuities or no?

All gratuities for the drink and dining packages are included with Star Class.  The daily service gratuities are also included.

[Ret MP]

On 3/6/2022 at 10:02 AM, George C said:

 rccl seems to only care about Star people. 

RCCL treats people based upon their cabin code/classification/category.  The Genie(s) treat Star Class people almost like royalty, that's for sure and don't have time for the rest.  But, if you want to be treated like you are Star Class, you must pay for it, thousands of dollars for it.  Once again, not bragging, just fact. I've paid from as little as $300.00 per person (Ocean View Balcony) and up to ~$32,000.00 (4 Bedroom Family Villa, Star Class, 13 people) and most categories in between (I've never done an interior but want to one day) and I have always felt that I was treated accordingly.  Not badly, just accordingly. Has every cruise been perfect?  No.  But, overall I'm very happy with the service I've received at all levels.

[molsonschooner]

On 3/30/2022 at 3:11 PM, topnole said:

I’ll be doing this exact thing and a CLS on harmony later in the year. It was between that and an owner suite but we have kids so the two bathroom is a huge benefit.  i’m curious what it is about the owner suite that is so much nicer to you?  I assume it’s that it’s just one story and more space as well as a bigger balcony. Is there anything else?  We could switch to an owner suite so I’m just kind of curious.
 

the balcony on the owners suite is awesome

[Spurschick]

On 3/6/2022 at 11:02 AM, George C said:

Not sure if they will restore the reserved seats we will see, rccl seems to only care about Star people. celebrity and MSc yacht club treat all there suite passengers better with way better perks.

We are doing Retreat soon. But I do agree - our Butler on MSC and the overall experience on MSC YC was far superior than what we got with out Genie in Star Class. 
 

We would rather get Sky and a dining package and forget the genie. The concierge can do show and dining reservations- 

 

there was probably only 2 things we asked our genie for all week. 1 was accommodated but delivered late, the other we were asked if we could change our times as she was busy with her other cabins. And whilst she reserved seats her choice of location was neither desirable not comfortable (sorry but I don’t call bar stools in the comedy club comfortable) 

 

I can get 2 or 3 cruises on MSC in YC for what we paid for our lackluster Star Class. 
 

Can’t wait to see how retreat compares.

Edited October 25, 2022 by Spurschick

[Cruise a holic]

On 3/5/2022 at 2:43 PM, orville99 said:

To us the genie is like a dog in heat, always following behind and sniffing for signs of tipping opportunities. We can do without that, and we get everything we enjoy about suites from the CLS. They are the best suites (IMO) on the ship for comfort vs price.

While it might be nice to experience a Star class, we are more then satisfied with the CLS on the Oasis class ships.  IMO best location, next to suite lounge and restaurant, and love the two bathrooms.  Tons of storage also.  We just booked a "family suite" on the Icon as the price was the most affordable.  Not really afforable, but others are much higher

[Ret MP]

Don't get me wrong with the Following, I'm not trying to sell you Royal or anything else.  Just saying that there are different stroke for different folks.  If MSC is your thing, good for you and go for it.  

 

The following is the Amenities of the Yacht Club on MSC as advertised:

 

https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise/msc-yacht-club

 

• Dedicated priority check-in and check-out as well as priority departure and return on excursion days  Yep, the Genie provides that!
• 24-hour butler service and dedicated concierge  Yep, the Genie is available 24 hours, may not be dedicated but that's Okay, I've never wanted the Genie and he/she wasn't available or another just as qualified Genie wasn't available.
• Room Service available 24 hours a day  Yep, Star Class does that!
• Premium Extra Drink Package (includes all drinks up to $/€ 13 on all ships)  Yep, Star Does that!
• Premium Internet package (Browse - 2 devices Unlimited Internet Package)  Yep, Star does that, too.  But, they offer it for as many people are staying in the room!
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa  I don't do Spa's.  I've heard that they did or did offer one free visit to the Thermal Spa.  But, I don't know for sure.
• Relaxation amenities in each suite (including bathrobe, and slippers)  Yep, Star does that!
• Pillow menu  Yep, Star does that!
• Other personal touches: luggage packing/unpacking service, newspaper directly delivered in stateroom on request  Yep, Star does that.  I don't know about un-packing my underwear though.  I don't want anybody unpacking my or my wife's underwear.
• MSC for Me wristband (where available)  Yep, Royal had that but it went away (COVID and or Supply Chain) I'm hearing that they may be coming back. 
• 1 free cruise change   
• ^* The free cruise change is applicable either on the cruise dates or on the destination. Such change needs to be performed up to 1 month before departure, for a new cruise to sail within 3 months from the original departure. Any cruise change shall be requested through our contact center.  To me, that's a non-benefit benefit!  It has to be changed up to one month before departure.  What's the chances of getting what you want with only one month left before departure and finding another within 3 months of original departure date?    Possible?  Yes, of course.  But, no guarantees.  Example:  On our JANUARY 2024 cruise on the Harmony, all the Star Class Aqua Theater Suites are sold out, ALREADY, more than a year out.  
• You know what I don't see?  A dining package that allows you to eat in any/all specialty restaurants and other upcharge restaurants as often as you want.  Included!
• Unlimited laundry service
• Gratuities
• The mini bar can be stocked with your favorite beer(s) and some other alcohol items (wine coolers for example).  Included!
• Coffee machine
• Priority access (move to the head of the line) to the various activities, like the Zip Line, Flow Rider, Rock Climbing Wall, North Star, Rip Cord et al.  
• And so so so much more!
• Bottom line.  Yes, you can pay less on other, non-"luxury" cruise lines, but you aren't going to get the "WHOLE PACKAGE/EXPERIENCE" like you get on Royal in general and Royal Star Class Service and Amenities. 

[Cruise a holic]

2 hours ago, Ret MP said:

Don't get me wrong with the Following, I'm not trying to sell you Royal or anything else.  Just saying that there are different stroke for different folks.  If MSC is your thing, good for you and go for it.  

 

The following is the Amenities of the Yacht Club on MSC as advertised:

 

https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise/msc-yacht-club

 

• Dedicated priority check-in and check-out as well as priority departure and return on excursion days  Yep, the Genie provides that!
• 24-hour butler service and dedicated concierge  Yep, the Genie is available 24 hours, may not be dedicated but that's Okay, I've never wanted the Genie and he/she wasn't available or another just as qualified Genie wasn't available.
• Room Service available 24 hours a day  Yep, Star Class does that!
• Premium Extra Drink Package (includes all drinks up to $/€ 13 on all ships)  Yep, Star Does that!
• Premium Internet package (Browse - 2 devices Unlimited Internet Package)  Yep, Star does that, too.  But, they offer it for as many people are staying in the room!
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa  I don't do Spa's.  I've heard that they did or did offer one free visit to the Thermal Spa.  But, I don't know for sure.
• Relaxation amenities in each suite (including bathrobe, and slippers)  Yep, Star does that!
• Pillow menu  Yep, Star does that!
• Other personal touches: luggage packing/unpacking service, newspaper directly delivered in stateroom on request  Yep, Star does that.  I don't know about un-packing my underwear though.  I don't want anybody unpacking my or my wife's underwear.
• MSC for Me wristband (where available)  Yep, Royal had that but it went away (COVID and or Supply Chain) I'm hearing that they may be coming back. 
• 1 free cruise change   
• ^* The free cruise change is applicable either on the cruise dates or on the destination. Such change needs to be performed up to 1 month before departure, for a new cruise to sail within 3 months from the original departure. Any cruise change shall be requested through our contact center.  To me, that's a non-benefit benefit!  It has to be changed up to one month before departure.  What's the chances of getting what you want with only one month left before departure and finding another within 3 months of original departure date?    Possible?  Yes, of course.  But, no guarantees.  Example:  On our JANUARY 2024 cruise on the Harmony, all the Star Class Aqua Theater Suites are sold out, ALREADY, more than a year out.  
• You know what I don't see?  A dining package that allows you to eat in any/all specialty restaurants and other upcharge restaurants as often as you want.  Included!
• Unlimited laundry service
• Gratuities
• The mini bar can be stocked with your favorite beer(s) and some other alcohol items (wine coolers for example).  Included!
• Coffee machine
• Priority access (move to the head of the line) to the various activities, like the Zip Line, Flow Rider, Rock Climbing Wall, North Star, Rip Cord et al.  
• And so so so much more!
• Bottom line.  Yes, you can pay less on other, non-"luxury" cruise lines, but you aren't going to get the "WHOLE PACKAGE/EXPERIENCE" like you get on Royal in general and Royal Star Class Service and Amenities. 

But the star class suites have obscene prices.  We couldn't spend that much and travel as much as we do.   I was told that the yacht club services aren't only available for the top suites.

[Ret MP]

Just now, Cruise a holic said:

But the star class suites have obscene prices.  We couldn't spend that much and travel as much as we do.   I was told that the yacht club services aren't only available for the top suites.

And I did state from the start that if that's your thing, go for it.  I'm not finding fault with how or why you travel the way you do.  I'm only trying to point out that the amenities are far from the same and yes, I said the Star is more expensive.

[Cruise a holic]

6 minutes ago, Ret MP said:

And I did state from the start that if that's your thing, go for it.  I'm not finding fault with how or why you travel the way you do.  I'm only trying to point out that the amenities are far from the same and yes, I said the Star is more expensive.

Guess at the stage in our life we will stick to sky class.  Hopefully, we will continue to be able to afford it!  However, we have had central park view cabins and always had a good cruise!  Then we tried a crown loft suite and that was the end!

Edited October 25, 2022 by Cruise a holic

[Ret MP]

Just now, Cruise a holic said:

 Hopefully, we will continue to be able to afford it!

It's not looking to good, is it!  I'm feeling the pain!

[Spurschick]

2 hours ago, Cruise a holic said:

But the star class suites have obscene prices.  We couldn't spend that much and travel as much as we do.   I was told that the yacht club services aren't only available for the top suites.

Correct. Inside, balcony and suite guests in YC all get same service, same benefits and same experience. Literally the only difference is the cabin.

 

All of the above get drinks, wifi, concierge, butler, top sail access and thermal suite access. Only add on is gratuities.

Edited October 25, 2022 by Spurschick

[Ret MP]

8 minutes ago, Spurschick said:

Correct. Inside, balcony and suite guests in YC all get same service, same benefits and same experience. Literally the only difference is the cabin.

 

All of the above get drinks, wifi, concierge, butler, top sail access and thermal suite access. Only add on is gratuities.

Question, and I honestly don't know the answer to this question:  What does "Access to the Thermal Suite" mean?  Does that mean you can go into the Sauna and/or Steam room only or do you have access to all amenities and offerings in the Spa, included?