Diamond traveling with a newbie friend, access to diamond lounge?

[HBE4]

1 hour ago, dleahy4444 said:

Thank you a and where can I buy a “flame retardant” suit? I obviously need one. ☺️

 

That's one of the wonderful features of CruiseCritic. Long after your question has been answered & you have accepted the answer - which you have, multiple times now - people will continue to chime in for many days, if not weeks, afterwards. Long after you have moved on. And some of those answers will be, how shall we say, "less than polite". 

 

Personally, I think you asked a valid question, gave solid reasoning for the question and received the "the rules are the rules" answers.  And while many have reported exceptions to the rules in the past, unfortunately, you can not count on those exceptions in the future.  All of which is true and valid.

 

I think @Chiliburn gave you the best answer.  Ask the concierge, give them the  reasons you did in your original post. Tell them it's a one time visit, that you are showing off the ship for a first time cruiser.  You might be surprised. Maybe they will let your friend in for a limited time, maybe tell you to come back when it's less crowded.  The worst thing that could happen is they say "no".  Maybe a stern "no" or a stern "no" with a glare.  Politely say thank you and move on.  You won't be "sneaking in" or "breaking the rules" if you receive permission from a representative of Royal with the power to grant you permission.

 

Remember, it's between you and the concierge, not a bunch of anonymous posters on the internet (that includes me). It's their job to keep on all their Diamond customers happy and that includes you. 

 

Now excuse me while I duck out of the way of the poison darts being shot at me. 🤣

 

[Goodtimes57]

1 hour ago, topnole said:

Well, getting married isn’t exactly superficial.  Not sure I get your point in that.  The rule is a spouse gets the same status.  Lots of rules like this exist.  Before getting married my wife wasn’t on my health insurance.  We got married and she was.  Buy a family museum pass or zoo pass and my family can go (not any friends as substitutes).   
 

You may view it as an arbitrary reason, but I’m not sure you are conceptualizing future outcomes if friends were invited by policy.  For example, what if a cabin mate can join you every cruise?  Now when a couple cruises with another couple they can just officially book the guys in one cabin and the girls in the other.  Now they are officially traveling with friends and everyone gets in the DL.  The DL is already packed on so many cruises.  Stories of it being empty surely exist.  But that isn’t the norm during peak hours on many of the ships.  Overflow lounges exist for a reason and that comes at a cost and it deteriorates the experience.  Why make it worse.  Few people expect they could just bring friends to a lounge designed for those who achieved a given status with a company.  Sure, some companies might do that.   But those companies make it very hard to get to a level where lounge access is achievable.  So crowding isn’t as likely or an issue.  

Again.  Not my company, not my rules.   I’m sure we all change some things if we were in charge.   But there are reasonable justifications for all of the rules.  

 

 

 

 

Yep, it's superficial. The new spouse did not earn their way into a DL w/ time and money spent. Their loyalty was awarded, issued, given to them. The same with a stepchild. And for God's sake no one is requesting a permanent placement like your wife on your insurance policy but rather a seat at a table to sip on a drink for a happy hour. But I do somewhat agree that comparing a DL to a zoo is pretty spot on. 

 

[island lady]

IMHO...the DL has lost it's luster as to being an "exclusive lounge"...more of an overpacked closet now.  So many things have changed over the years.  😮 

 

But the new change to vouchers, that can be used at any time...at any lounge....good change!  🥰

 

 

[TYMAN]

43 minutes ago, island lady said:

IMHO...the DL has lost it's luster as to being an "exclusive lounge"...more of an overpacked closet now.  So many things have changed over the years.  😮 

 

But the new change to vouchers, that can be used at any time...at any lounge....good change!  🥰

 

 

I don't normally chime in on these things, never was able to answer correctly. lol! Anyway, I, like Pat, feels the luster is gone. I remember, back in the late 90's when we became Diamond, the Nightly Diamond event was something to look forward to each day, especially in The Safari Club on the Jewel of the Seas. Hors d' oeuvres and drinks passed by staff was so classy. Even the Diamond event at noon on the Sovereign, Monarch, Majesty before entering Nassau was something special. It's just not that special anymore.

Anyway, love the 5 vouchers, and being Prime in the casino helps too. 😉 

[dleahy4444]

1 hour ago, HBE4 said:

 

That's one of the wonderful features of CruiseCritic. Long after your question has been answered & you have accepted the answer - which you have, multiple times now - people will continue to chime in for many days, if not weeks, afterwards. Long after you have moved on. And some of those answers will be, how shall we say, "less than polite". 

 

Personally, I think you asked a valid question, gave solid reasoning for the question and received the "the rules are the rules" answers.  And while many have reported exceptions to the rules in the past, unfortunately, you can not count on those exceptions in the future.  All of which is true and valid.

 

I think @Chiliburn gave you the best answer.  Ask the concierge, give them the  reasons you did in your original post. Tell them it's a one time visit, that you are showing off the ship for a first time cruiser.  You might be surprised. Maybe they will let your friend in for a limited time, maybe tell you to come back when it's less crowded.  The worst thing that could happen is they say "no".  Maybe a stern "no" or a stern "no" with a glare.  Politely say thank you and move on.  You won't be "sneaking in" or "breaking the rules" if you receive permission from a representative of Royal with the power to grant you permission.

 

Remember, it's between you and the concierge, not a bunch of anonymous posters on the internet (that includes me). It's their job to keep on all their Diamond customers happy and that includes you. 

 

Now excuse me while I duck out of the way of the poison darts being shot at me. 🤣

 

Thanks so much for your insightful comment. It really is not a big deal if my friend is admitted or not. I guess for me I was just surprised by the tone of some of the  comments. I agree that the only person who can tell me with any authority if she could come in is the concierge in charge. But frankly after this experience on cc I don’t think I will even try. My friend has never cruised so she doesn’t even know what the DL is or care whether we go or not. She is a fun welcoming person and I’m pretty outgoing myself so I’m sure we will meet people throughout the ship and have a blast.  We are also considering upgrading our JS to a GS so if that works out it will be a moot point since we will have access to the suites lounge. I know I posed the question and appreciate the respectful responses I received, even from those that had a different opinion. 

[island lady]

13 minutes ago, TYMAN said:

I don't normally chime in on these things, never was able to answer correctly. lol! Anyway, I, like Pat, feels the luster is gone. I remember, back in the late 90's when we became Diamond, the Nightly Diamond event was something to look forward to each day, especially in The Safari Club on the Jewel of the Seas. Hors d' oeuvres and drinks passed by staff was so classy. Even the Diamond event at noon on the Sovereign, Monarch, Majesty before entering Nassau was something special. It's just not that special anymore.

Anyway, love the 5 vouchers, and being Prime in the casino helps too. 😉 

 

Hi Bill!  🙂 

 

OMG yes....that somewhere around 11-11:30 event on Monarch and MJ...pulling into Nassau...the best!  Made me so proud to become Platinum!  😉   Waiters walking around with horsey-duvers...and great Bloody Marys...and even a sushi roll set up!  

 

Ahhh...the bye gone days. Not the same any longer.  😪

[HBE4]

16 minutes ago, dleahy4444 said:

Thanks so much for your insightful comment. It really is not a big deal if my friend is admitted or not. I guess for me I was just surprised by the tone of some of the  comments. I agree that the only person who can tell me with any authority if she could come in is the concierge in charge. But frankly after this experience on cc I don’t think I will even try. My friend has never cruised so she doesn’t even know what the DL is or care whether we go or not. She is a fun welcoming person and I’m pretty outgoing myself so I’m sure we will meet people throughout the ship and have a blast.  We are also considering upgrading our JS to a GS so if that works out it will be a moot point since we will ha

ve access to the suites lounge. I know I posed the question and appreciate the respectful responses I received, even from those that had a different opinion. 

 

Sounds like you are going to have a blast.  Enjoy!🍹🍻

[crzndeb]

3 hours ago, dleahy4444 said:

Thank you a and where can I buy a “flame retardant” suit? I obviously need one. ☺️

First and foremost, do not EVER post a question about the rules on Cruise Critic. If  you have a question, check the website, or ask once you are on board the ship. Loyalty ambassadors, concierge, and managers on board, will answer your questions, that may or may not follow what the website specifically says. Sometimes it comes down to crowds and numbers. If bending the rules a bit gets them another paying customer in the future, they will bend. 

[topnole]

1 hour ago, Goodtimes57 said:

 

Yep, it's superficial. The new spouse did not earn their way into a DL w/ time and money spent. Their loyalty was awarded, issued, given to them. The same with a stepchild. And for God's sake no one is requesting a permanent placement like your wife on your insurance policy but rather a seat at a table to sip on a drink for a happy hour. But I do somewhat agree that comparing a DL to a zoo is pretty spot on. 

 

Lol.  My wife didn’t earn all my assets, but she did acquire them via marriage (and vice versa).   I don’t recall any friends acquiring anything from me once we became friends.  
 

Marriage doesn’t lack depth or meaning.  The entire legal system disagrees with your assessment on this.  Every religious organization disagrees with you.  Society as whole disagrees with you.   Of course you are free to think otherwise and partake in any superficial relationships you want.  
 

For the record, I don’t care one bit if someone brings a friend in.  Not my place to make or enforce the rules and I couldn’t care less about anyone’s status.  But I do understand and respect why they have the rules set up as they do.  

Edited March 9, 2022 by topnole

[davekathy]

1 minute ago, topnole said:

For the record, I don’t care one bit if someone brings a friend in.  Not my place to make or enforce the rules and I couldn’t care less about anyone’s status.  But I do understand and respect why they have the rules set up as they do.  

I agree. The DLC shouldn't have to be put in an awkward position to even have to consider the request. I also find it bad advice for anyone suggesting (especially a non diamond member) speaking with the DLC about bringing in a hitch hiker.  The person making the request to the DLC shouldn't even be asking as they should know the rules/policy as being at least a diamond member and disrespectful to the DLC. The rules/policy are very simple and clear to understand and should be enforced by the DLC.  

 

My wife and I will be in the DL each evening on all our cruises. Based solely on this thread, we'll have excellent service for the limited time we are enjoying ourselves in the DL. But we always have and always plan on it.  

[Chiliburn]

1 hour ago, dleahy4444 said:

Thanks so much for your insightful comment. It really is not a big deal if my friend is admitted or not. I guess for me I was just surprised by the tone of some of the  comments. I agree that the only person who can tell me with any authority if she could come in is the concierge in charge. But frankly after this experience on cc I don’t think I will even try. My friend has never cruised so she doesn’t even know what the DL is or care whether we go or not. She is a fun welcoming person and I’m pretty outgoing myself so I’m sure we will meet people throughout the ship and have a blast.  We are also considering upgrading our JS to a GS so if that works out it will be a moot point since we will have access to the suites lounge. I know I posed the question and appreciate the respectful responses I received, even from those that had a different opinion. 

Go the grand suite,  your friend will be a instant cruise junkie.

And once you have got the upgrade,start a new thread about bringing a friend into the suite lounge. LOL

[dleahy4444]

53 minutes ago, davekathy said:

I agree. The DLC shouldn't have to be put in an awkward position to even have to consider the request. I also find it bad advice for anyone suggesting (especially a non diamond member) speaking with the DLC about bringing in a hitch hiker.  

“Hitch hiker” seriously? Are we name calling now? You are saying that the DLC should not be bothered with an inquiry because it would be “disrespectful” yet you are referring to someone you don’t even know as a “hitch hiker”??? Who is being disrespectful now?? 

[livingonthebeach]

1 hour ago, dleahy4444 said:

......But frankly after this experience on cc I don’t think I will even try....

 

Try not to be put off by some of the snarky responses. You'll be surprised how pleasant the same people act face-to-face versus under the cloak of anonymity.  Also not all Diamond and above cruisers are CC members and not all CC members think alike. Hoping that you get your suite upgrade. Happy Cruising!! 

[RosieRoo]

Oh my, 6 pages worth of answers. Whatever you do, I hope you have a wonderful time and your friend does too. 

[dleahy4444]

1 minute ago, livingonthebeach said:

 

Try not to be put off by some of the snarky responses. You'll be surprised how pleasant the same people act face-to-face versus under the cloak of anonymity.  Also not all Diamond and above cruisers are CC members and not all CC members think alike. Hoping that you get your suite upgrade. Happy Cruising!! 

Thank you, you are absolutely correct! Most  people on CC have been just lovely and very helpful when I’ve asked questions regarding other matters. I’ve met wonderful people on cruises and rarely has status ever come up. In fact we are still in touch with other couples and are planning future cruises with them. And it is so very true that on social media people feel free to say things they would never have the nerve to say face to face. I don’t judge all Diamond by the remarks of a few, I’m a Diamond myself. ☺️

[dleahy4444]

24 minutes ago, RosieRoo said:

Oh my, 6 pages worth of answers. Whatever you do, I hope you have a wonderful time and your friend does too. 

Thanks so much! 

[topnole]

1 hour ago, dleahy4444 said:

“Hitch hiker” seriously? Are we name calling now? You are saying that the DLC should not be bothered with an inquiry because it would be “disrespectful” yet you are referring to someone you don’t even know as a “hitch hiker”??? Who is being disrespectful now?? 

Personally, I think it is fine if a person asks.  However, anyone asking should realize they may get a friendly yes or a not so courteous no.  More than likely the later of the two, but again one is just making a request.  Lord knows it has happened a million times already.  

[cruisegirl1]

16 hours ago, Chiliburn said:

I remember asking here if it was possible to sneak my sister into the suite lounge.

On the cruise the suite concierge couldn’t have cared less,especially after a good tip.

But you should have heard the nasty remarks here from the pinnacles.

Just ask the concierge,they represent the company .

How would another passenger know who is allowed and who is not allowed in a lounge?    

 

M

[mugtech]

3 hours ago, dleahy4444 said:

“Hitch hiker” seriously? Are we name calling now? You are saying that the DLC should not be bothered with an inquiry because it would be “disrespectful” yet you are referring to someone you don’t even know as a “hitch hiker”??? Who is being disrespectful now?? 

I was proud to be a hitch hiker during the Vietnam War, great way to tour the country.  Wore the title proudly, met a lot of good people.

[xpcdoojk]

On 3/7/2022 at 5:28 PM, WELDON said:

The DL is crowded as it is. If everyone that wanted to come in was let in. there would not be room for the passengers who are entitled to enter.

Have you been on a ship recently?

[xpcdoojk]

After reading to the end of this thread…. I only have one thought.  OMG New Yorkers.

 

love peace and understanding…. Can’t we all just get along?