Royal Carribean disloyal to loyal cruisers, how not to run a cruise line.

[George C]

I love that they are giving diamond 4 free drinks in any bar, Diamond plus getting 5 free drinks, I think that is way better then diamond lounge happy hour , plus all the other perks like discount on balcony and suites . Remember drinks in diamond lounge were limited to certain brands . 

[Ocean Boy]

8 minutes ago, HicksRA said:

I do hope they don’t decide to put an expiration date on accrued points like some airlines have done. 

I suspect that won't happen. Even if someone only cruises rarely I think the cruise lines would like them to have that little extra incentive to come back instead of branching out. Also, the rare cruiser is not reaching levels in the program where the better perks really kick in so the good perks are still going to the frequent folks that the cruise line is trying to reward.

[neverbeenhere]

Below you will find what, a couple years ago ,many said was the final change that they could bear. It's different for everyone. I see most still cruising Royal. Enjoy your Holland America cruises.

[Starry Eyes]

4 minutes ago, HicksRA said:

Removing access to the Concierge Lounge concerned me about as much as dropping a penny in the parking lot and not bothering to bend over and pick it up. 

I do hope they don’t decide to put an expiration date on accrued points like some airlines have done. 

Same here.  The CL already had capacity limits, so D+ did not have access on many cruises.  We still have access similar amenities in the DL.

 

Airlines and cruiselines have different business models and unsurprising have different loyalty programs.  Many of the airlines’ top loyalty customers are business travelers vs cruise lines’ leisure travelers.  As a shareholder I do not think loyal customers who consistently sail 1-2 times per year for 20 years should not, IMHO, be treated just like newbies.  Nor do I think a frequent cruiser who takes hiatus from cruising for a couple years while dealing with health or other life challenges should be treated like a newbie when they make their long awaited return to a ship.

[shellunderwater]

Better to move to the other cruise lines that a ALL jacking rates, charging for things and removing services.  Since you will be new to their newly degraded services, you'll be happy as a pig in fresh poo.  While the others aren't happy about their poo (degraded experience).

 

It's reality.  You know, it's not the Love Boat anymore.

[Ocean Boy]

10 minutes ago, shellunderwater said:

 

It's reality.  You know, it's not the Love Boat anymore.

Thankfully. I had a chance to tour that ship. Enough said.

[smokeybandit]

We need "oh boy, here we go" gif for posts like these.

[Biker19]

[Cigar King]

22 hours ago, welshtiger said:

After 15 years of cruising with this line , enough is enough and I  will be voting with my credit card and sailing with alternative cruise lines.

I though Welsh men never yield?  😉

[pcur]

Everyone has their own comfort zone, and don't like the features they enjoy being eliminated.  I can empathize with that, but not agree.

 

On most ships, I find little difference between the CL and DL.  Actually, on some ships the DL is better.  The Enchantment is a good example.  The CL is enclosed, and can get very warm with the large windows.  The DL is open to the bar below, and has great views out the huge windows there.

 

I prefer to go to a bar away from the centrum on most ships, as the noise factor is pretty bad, so I appreciate access to a quieter venue for drinks in the evening.

 

I'm sure there are other features that appeal to other passengers, too.

 

My point is it's a matter of personal preference, and we all have those.

 

I will always have a large tolerance for change with RCCL, as they are my favorite, their loyalty program better than any other cruise line IMO, and their pricing for solo cruisers is great.  You get some really significant perks at the higher levels of the C&A program for just booking cabins and sailing.  No extra cost to get there.  

 

Princess, on the other hand, drives me nuts with their levels attainable by either number of cruises OR number of days.  

[Morecruisesplz]

4 hours ago, Biker19 said:

Considering their ships are sailing at 100+% capacity, not sure they are that worried about pleasing all customers.

So full on Explorer this week they brought round wooden tables/chairs from pubs to Windjammer. I don’t think they are worried about filling cabins. Lots of families and young folks.

[nelblu]

54 minutes ago, Starry Eyes said:

Same here.  The CL already had capacity limits, so D+ did not have access on many cruises.  We still have access similar amenities in the DL.

 

Airlines and cruiselines have different business models and unsurprising have different loyalty programs.  Many of the airlines’ top loyalty customers are business travelers vs cruise lines’ leisure travelers.  As a shareholder I do not think loyal customers who consistently sail 1-2 times per year for 20 years should not, IMHO, be treated just like newbies.  Nor do I think a frequent cruiser who takes hiatus from cruising for a couple years while dealing with health or other life challenges should be treated like a newbie when they make their long awaited return to a ship.

I think we are confusing between miles earned and the perks needed each year to retain certain a level or benefits.  United for one, the miles earned/accrued no longer expire, however, in order to maintain a tier level each year, one needs to earn certain # of miles. 

 

From a Royal perspective, Casino Royale one needs X number of points each year to retain a certain level, eg. Prime = 2,500 points.  At the beginning of year, it begins at 0.  The tier levels are distinct from the C&A levels and accrue add'l benefits. eg.  unlimited drinks in casino, discount on internet package, free cruise(s), etc.

 

Casino Royale year starts April 1 and ends March 31 of following year.

[nelblu]

1 hour ago, George C said:

I love that they are giving diamond 4 free drinks in any bar, Diamond plus getting 5 free drinks, I think that is way better then diamond lounge happy hour , plus all the other perks like discount on balcony and suites . Remember drinks in diamond lounge were limited to certain brands . 

I remember when there was only a D event and only got some cheap wine and pretzels and or peanuts.  Beer was extra.  Just the cash benefits that I accrue from being D+ is real money that I save from the balcony cabin to solo supplement.   I never expected to get into the CL because the invite was quite rare.  Only twice (Quantum & Anthem) in some 40+ sails have I had the opportunity to see it listed on the C&A welcome letter. 

[Starry Eyes]

2 minutes ago, nelblu said:

I think we are confusing between miles earned and the perks needed each year to retain certain a level or benefits.  United for one, the miles earned/accrued no longer expire, however, in order to maintain a tier level each year, one needs to earn certain # of miles. 

 

From a Royal perspective, Casino Royale one needs X number of points each year to retain a certain level, eg. Prime = 2,500 points.  At the beginning of year, it begins at 0.  The tier levels are distinct from the C&A levels and accrue add'l benefits. eg.  unlimited drinks in casino, discount on internet package, free cruise(s), etc.

 

Casino Royale year starts April 1 and ends March 31 of following year.

Thanks for the tutorial on Casino Royale for the non gamblers like myself, though the OP was upset about the C&A program so it’s a bit off the main topic.  The casino rewards program should differ from the C&A program.  They should not continue to give casino rewards to somebody who quit gambling a couple years ago.  

I’m not confused about airline perks.  I still maintain the airline business model differs from the cruise line business model.

 

[Tulsacoker]

1 hour ago, George C said:

I love that they are giving diamond 4 free drinks in any bar, Diamond plus getting 5 free drinks, I think that is way better then diamond lounge happy hour , plus all the other perks like discount on balcony and suites . Remember drinks in diamond lounge were limited to certain brands . 

Please adhere to the forum rules. The use of the words Love and RCI is not allowed in any threads   

[gmerick]

I'm booked on Antem in a few days -- solo cabin.  Great price, because I booked extra cruises while so many "loyal passengers" were staying home.  Still looking at a repeat trip next year, but too many "loyal passengers" are driving the prices sky high -- what I got for $145/day is currently $350/day.  The ship is selling out a year in advance.  That's OK, folks.  As for all those "benefits" that are going away -- I do room service breakfast, noshing at the most convenient lunch counter, and MDR for supper. All I'm looking for is 3 squares and a cot.  I spend every island day off ship on my own.  I never have time nor opportunity for all the theme park nonsence on board, nor for the clubs / lounges / bars.  If I do happen to be on board in the evening, maybe a broadway show, but for the most part, give me a lounger with a clear view of the ocean.  If / When all the "loyal passwngers" finally get through their post pandemic panic buying, I'll sail again, for now I'll stay away from the 100%+ full ships.  

[Morecruisesplz]

11 minutes ago, gmerick said:

I'm booked on Antem in a few days -- solo cabin.  Great price, because I booked extra cruises while so many "loyal passengers" were staying home.  Still looking at a repeat trip next year, but too many "loyal passengers" are driving the prices sky high -- what I got for $145/day is currently $350/day.  The ship is selling out a year in advance.  That's OK, folks.  As for all those "benefits" that are going away -- I do room service breakfast, noshing at the most convenient lunch counter, and MDR for supper. All I'm looking for is 3 squares and a cot.  I spend every island day off ship on my own.  I never have time nor opportunity for all the theme park nonsence on board, nor for the clubs / lounges / bars.  If I do happen to be on board in the evening, maybe a broadway show, but for the most part, give me a lounger with a clear view of the ocean.  If / When all the "loyal passwngers" finally get through their post pandemic panic buying, I'll sail again, for now I'll stay away from the 100%+ full ships.  

 

[neverlaysup]

23 hours ago, welshtiger said:

We see yet again Royal Carribean cruise line , erroding the benefits for the "crown and anchor " club loyalty scheme.  Happy hour diamond club -gone! Now diamond plus cruisers excluded from the concierge lounge. Well ,I for one am sick to the back teeth of the constant penny pinching and degradation of the whole cruise expereince wth Royal. After 15 years of cruising with this line , enough is enough and I  will be voting with my credit card and sailing with alternative cruise lines.

The gimmicks dressed up as benefits just simply deter sensible people . Cabin service reduced to once a day.  When the directors of Royal realise they are loosing market share and profits are falling they may want to consider why? Ciao Royal, you have just shot yourself in the foot......again!

If you thought a limited happy hour is better than 4-6 free drinks at any bar at any time, you may need to reevaluate some things. I agree that the cruise lines are cutting back a bit but on this one, you are 100% wrong. 

[edrussell]

I guess one of the advantages of being a casino player is that my wife and I couldn't give a damn about C & A tier rewards.  Truthfully when I look at the benefits they aren't of any use to us anyway.  People get so hung up on the 'elite' aspect of these rewards.  A robe or a drink voucher is really that big of a deal?  To some I suppose.  We've never paid for a single base fare on any cruise nor will we.  Our play takes care of that for us.  If they give us a robe or a pack of AAA batteries then great, but I won't be too upset if that goes away.  If they get stingy on the COMP cruises then we will go to another line.  

 

Given the crazy demand out there for cruises and vacations in general do we really think loyalty perks are at the tippy top of RCCL's strategies?  Give your head a shake.

Edited January 6, 2023 by edrussell

[The Fun Researcher]

I can see the frustration for D+ not being able to use the concierge lounges, but I personally don't see the issue with the loss of "happy hour".  Now you get 5 free drinks a day (4 for Diamond)  and can use them wherever and whenever you want, not in a crowded lounge.

 

I like the new changes for the drinks.

Dan

Edited January 6, 2023 by The Fun Researcher

[Ocean Boy]

21 minutes ago, gmerick said:

I'm booked on Antem in a few days -- solo cabin.  Great price, because I booked extra cruises while so many "loyal passengers" were staying home.  Still looking at a repeat trip next year, but too many "loyal passengers" are driving the prices sky high -- what I got for $145/day is currently $350/day.  The ship is selling out a year in advance.  That's OK, folks.  As for all those "benefits" that are going away -- I do room service breakfast, noshing at the most convenient lunch counter, and MDR for supper. All I'm looking for is 3 squares and a cot.  I spend every island day off ship on my own.  I never have time nor opportunity for all the theme park nonsence on board, nor for the clubs / lounges / bars.  If I do happen to be on board in the evening, maybe a broadway show, but for the most part, give me a lounger with a clear view of the ocean.  If / When all the "loyal passwngers" finally get through their post pandemic panic buying, I'll sail again, for now I'll stay away from the 100%+ full ships.  

You should be thanking those "loyal passengers" for staying home and giving you the opportunity to sail with decent pricing.

[Merion_Mom]

On 1/5/2023 at 1:18 PM, welshtiger said:

We see yet again Royal Carribean cruise line , erroding the benefits for the "crown and anchor " club loyalty scheme.  Happy hour diamond club -gone! Now diamond plus cruisers excluded from the concierge lounge. Well ,I for one am sick to the back teeth of the constant penny pinching and degradation of the whole cruise expereince wth Royal. After 15 years of cruising with this line , enough is enough and I  will be voting with my credit card and sailing with alternative cruise lines.

The gimmicks dressed up as benefits just simply deter sensible people . Cabin service reduced to once a day.  When the directors of Royal realise they are loosing market share and profits are falling they may want to consider why? Ciao Royal, you have just shot yourself in the foot......again!

 

Hwyl fawr!

[Mikew0805]

On 1/5/2023 at 1:18 PM, welshtiger said:

We see yet again Royal Carribean cruise line , erroding the benefits for the "crown and anchor " club loyalty scheme.  Happy hour diamond club -gone! Now diamond plus cruisers excluded from the concierge lounge. Well ,I for one am sick to the back teeth of the constant penny pinching and degradation of the whole cruise expereince wth Royal. After 15 years of cruising with this line , enough is enough and I  will be voting with my credit card and sailing with alternative cruise lines.

The gimmicks dressed up as benefits just simply deter sensible people . Cabin service reduced to once a day.  When the directors of Royal realise they are loosing market share and profits are falling they may want to consider why? Ciao Royal, you have just shot yourself in the foot......again!

Ok, thanks for letting us know. 

[PWP-001]

4 hours ago, Starry Eyes said:

Same here.  The CL already had capacity limits, so D+ did not have access on many cruises.  We still have access similar amenities in the DL.

 

Airlines and cruiselines have different business models and unsurprising have different loyalty programs.  Many of the airlines’ top loyalty customers are business travelers vs cruise lines’ leisure travelers.  As a shareholder I do not think loyal customers who consistently sail 1-2 times per year for 20 years should not, IMHO, be treated just like newbies.  Nor do I think a frequent cruiser who takes hiatus from cruising for a couple years while dealing with health or other life challenges should be treated like a newbie when they make their long awaited return to a ship.

You point out that cruise and air have different CUSTOMERS:  business vs. leisure.

 

And HOW they operate and structure their loyalty programs are different, given they have different customers.

 

But in general terms and conceptually they share important characteristics:

 

Both are intended to attract, recognize and reward repeat customers in order to enhance profitability.

 

Yes, the frequent flyer buys many more tickets than the frequent cruiser sails on cruises.

 

So while the qualification period for elite status for airlines resets annually, cruise lines would need a much longer period of say, 7 to 10 years.  

 

Right now, with no expiry to cruise nights, there's no incentive to return.  With airlines, there's that meter that shows how much more is needed to keep status, and it creates an incentive to book flights with the airline to hit the mark.

 

With RCI a guest with status can sail elsewhere with no worry of losing perks or status.  

 

Imagine instead, if you were to know that you needed to sail 14 more nights within the next two years in order to keep your benefit of drink vouchers.  Or sailing 28 more nights within the next two years gets you to the next level where you get free unlimited laundry.  That may be the needed incentive to continue booking and consolidating most cruises on one line rather than straying.

[ssb]

Diamond Clubs still exist on Royal  Caribbean ships