What is Your Reaction to This?

[sail7seas]

DH and I sailed "X' about 6 times total but have not sailed them in many years. We only sail HAL.

I just checked my e-mail and found the President of Celebrity chose to send me an e-mail, addressed to my first name (have we met? are we friends? :confused:) and the message of his multiple paragraph letter was how safe "X" ships are and we should sail.

Is he implying the Carnival Family of ships are all unsafe?
He thinks this is good marketing?
The letter was way too long to begin with and is such a turn off to me that were we considering sailing "X", which we are not, I would have second thoughts.

Anyone else here get the letter?
What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?

[jtl513]

It could be taken as just reassuring customers, past and potential.

What would your reaction have been if it had come from HAL?

[rafinmd]

I think I'm also in the camp of "It's just reassuring". Interesting, though that I have a booking nearing final payment date and haven't gotten the message.

When you did sail with X, were you a pretty regular cruiser with them?

I am having trouble figuring why the message would need to be long.

Roy

[Mar56]

Personally, i think that they are setting themselves " aside" from carnival corp and costa lines and are very much implying, though very overtly ( cue the lawyers) that they are safe while others..........?

Jmo

Mar56

[gelo7]

It could be taken as just reassuring customers, past and potential.

What would your reaction have been if it had come from HAL?

That's my take on it.

[3rdGenCunarder]

It sounds to me like they're hoping to catch some people who were thinking about cruising but are now nervous, especially about Costa or other lines in the Carnival group. Several nights ago, Diane Sawyer kept calling the ship the Carnival Concordia. If other newspeople made similar references, all of Carnival may be suspect in some people's minds.

By just saying "we're safe," they let people come to their own conclusions. If this makes people think it's OK to cruise, just stay away from the scary, dangerous Carnival bunch, X comes out ahead.

Without reading the actual letter, I can't decide if I think it's savvy marketing or sleazy opportunism. Or are they the same thing...

[lorekauf]

That's my take on it.
Mine too. I also received the email.

[peaches from georgia]

It's business, not personal.

There will be lots of people who know Costa is part of Carnival Corp. and will wonder about the overall safety standards of Carnival lines. Sure X is trying to get some new business. It's not any disrespect to those that suffered in this tragedy, it's marketing to get new customers. Carnival Corp lines would do the same thing if the situation was reversed and they should.

[localady]

Funny Sails, I got an email from RCCL but not Celebrity. Last sailed Celebrity in 2007, but haven't sailed with RCCL since 1999......go figure!:rolleyes:
I am sure all the cruise lines are mortified that each day we wake up to the latest news reports and the media saturation of the Concordia disaster. It cannot be helping any of them monetarily.

[sail7seas]

It could be taken as just reassuring customers, past and potential.

What would your reaction have been if it had come from HAL?


In the hypothetical as I can't know for sure how I'd feel but I strongly suspect I would not like it coming from HAL either...... or from any cruise line.

I take it as the worst of bad taste but understand others might view it differently and that is why I asked.

I didn't find it to be reassuring but rather as a shark swimming around blood in the water. :eek:

[localady]

It could be taken as just reassuring customers, past and potential.

What would your reaction have been if it had come from HAL?

HAL put out at least one blurb this weekend on Facebook regarding it's continuing commitment to safety. I am sure more assurances will follow.
It will also be interesting to see if the Muster on the Oosterdam differs this weekend from what we experienced in October.
I was surprised to note in October that no one was trying to take any kind of roll during Muster.

[sail7seas]

Funny Sails, I got an email from RCCL but not Celebrity. Last sailed Celebrity in 2007, but haven't sailed with RCCL since 1999......go figure!:rolleyes:
I am sure all the cruise lines are mortified that each day we wake up to the latest news reports and the media saturation of the Concordia disaster. It cannot be helping any of them monetarily.


Makes me wonder how they decide which 'leg' of RCI got which letter. We sailed RCI once but didn't hear from them. Thus far, only "X" has landed in my in box with such a message.

Maybe we can look forward to more in the coming days.

Seems safe to say they are waiting the next 'event' which will catch our attention and take Concordia off the evening news.

[glanders]

I think it's a good business move. When I read it, I thought more of it standing up for the industry and not just Celebrity. The industry could be really affected by this in the short term. They do refer you to more information on their website if you want more information. I would imagine it would be reassuring to some. I would not be surprised if others follow.

[jlocole]

I got an email from RCCL about the safety proceedures they have in place. I think the cruiselines are worried that people won't cruise due to the Costa.

And once you are in their sysyem, you can expect mass email letters. Nothing untoward or unacceptable in them doing this.

[magictam]

Maybe you did get one from RCL. I received one but it went to my junk mail. I have sailed once with RCL. i've never sailed with X and also received an email today. Which didn't go to my junk mail.

I am rather surprised I haven't received anything from HAL as we sail on the Oosterdam in 26 days. I thought it would just be proactive to reassure thier customers.

I'm not offended by any of them or lack of receiving one.

[kazu]

We got the letter too - and we haven't been on Celebrity in at least 5 years! Wonder how they are choosing their email selection? Maybe going after those that haven't sailed with them in a while thinking they are cruising other ships?

i guess it's an opportunity - I didn't like it, but that's just me.

I haven't heard boo from these guys in several years (no brochures, nothing) - so it seems kind of strange to get the email:confused:

[RMLincoln]

We also just received this letter. We sailed X last March for the first time. I think it's marketing to pick up some low lying fruit so to speak. It didn't stike me in poor taste. I think X is trying to get out a positive message for thier product, probably knowing that this tragedy will put a damper on sales for all of cruising for the short term. Just general positive PR to help balance out the horror and reassure customers. I'm not surprised by the proactive approach. Carnival has it's hands tied by thier laywers to not say too much yet so X and others can step up and bee seen as maybe a better option, they hope. m--

[Typhoon1]

The Costa disaster gives them another reason to contact current and former customers, hoping to lure the former customers back.

Did they offer you a 30% discount?

[Barrick]

I don't think it's strange at all that the president of a cruise ship company would send an email to everyone on their list talking about their safety standards, after the Costa incident. I would actually find it strange if they didn't address their in house safety guidelines, and reassure all their past, present and future clients in this manner.

There have been many posting on other boards about people calling cruise ship companies and inquiring about their safety standards. What better way to address this, than sending out an email blast.

[localady]

Maybe you did get one from RCL. I received one but it went to my junk mail. I have sailed once with RCL. i've never sailed with X and also received an email today. Which didn't go to my junk mail.

I am rather surprised I haven't received anything from HAL as we sail on the Oosterdam in 26 days. I thought it would just be proactive to reassure thier customers.

I'm not offended by any of them or lack of receiving one.

I have bets that safety will be a word you hear even more frequently on your next cruise. ;) :D

[whogo]

Anyone else here get the letter?
What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?

I get a lot of e-mail that I don't bother reading. This would have been one of them. Doesn't bother me a bit, but I am not a HAL cheerleader or Carnival stockholder.

Does Celebrity do "salutes" as Captain Schettino reports he was ordered to? If not, let them use the difference to their marketing advantage.


Costa Concordia captain Francesco Schettino reportedly told prosecutors that Costa Cruises operators ordered him to perform the “salute” maneuver, when a cruise ship sails close to the shore to attract publicity and delight passengers. That move, he says, caused the ship to capsize, Reuters (http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/22/italy-ship-idUSL5E8CM0I320120122) reports.
“It was planned, we were supposed to have done it a week earlier but it was not possible because of bad weather,” Schettino reportedly told prosecutors. “They insisted. They said: ‘We do tourist navigation, we have to be seen, get publicity and greet the island.’”

Read more: http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/01/23/costa-concordia-captain-says-he-was-ordered-to-make-risky-salute-maneuver/#ixzz1kKSXR4Lj

[kazu]

The Costa disaster gives them another reason to contact current and former customers, hoping to lure the former customers back.

Did they offer you a 30% discount?

Funny :D no! not to me anyways:D

[DFD1]

I expect there will be a lot of marketing efforts launched across the industry around the safety issue.

In the last couple of days, I've run across "blurbs" from several cruise lines about their concern for passenger safety.

The Concordia grounding likely has the whole industry spooked....as it should.

[sparky-elpaso]

I got one and I've never sailed with them - only RCCL and HAL. They're just trying to reassure folks - especially after that 20/20 show the other night.

[magictam]

I have bets that safety will be a word you hear even more frequently on your next cruise. ;) :D

you'll have to let us know how it goes for you. enjoy yourseil!

[HeatherInFlorida]

I sail Celebrity frequently, just got off the Solstice and have another Celebrity cruise booked. But I didn't get one of these letters from Celebrity. I did, however, get one from the RCL President.

It's simply a letter to attempt to ease the people's minds, to let prospective passengers know that safety is a priority for the cruise line. It's not a slam at Carnival. I suspect all cruise lines know they're in this mess together. No line is exempt for concern over their bottom line.

All cruise lines are worried about how this horrible incident is going to affect them in coming months, even years. They recognize that it will put many people off.

It's far more likely the letter would be sent to people who haven't cruised on their line recently rather than those who have.

[jimd909]

I got the same email.... If you are bored and want something to read...here it is. :) Funny thing is, I've never sailed Celebrity...but I have on RCCL.



Like you, all of us at Celebrity Cruises, both shipboard and shoreside, are deeply saddened by the events surrounding the tragic Costa Concordia accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the incident.

I debated about writing to you, as I wanted to be respectful of the investigation process and avoid adding to the speculation as to the cause or related failures. However, the concerns that have been raised about the safety of cruise ships compelled me to take the opportunity to share what an intense focus we have always placed on safety, and how rigorously we put that focus into practice every day.

Since Celebrity Cruises’ founding more than 20 years ago, the safety of our guests and crew has always been our highest priority. The measures we take in the interest of safety are many, often exceeding regulatory requirements. It’s a critical part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in every aspect of our business.

Our guests see just a portion of our safety practices through the mandatory muster drills we conduct at the outset of every sailing. But our safety practices encompass so much more. In light of the Costa Concordia accident, we chose to post a summary of our safety practices on our web site. Simply go to, www.CelebrityCruises.com/Safety, and click on the tab labeled "Safety and Security". I encourage you to take a look, and to share the information with your family and friends.

Above and beyond what we’ve communicated there, you also may be interested to know that the leader of Celebrity Cruises’ Captains is a highly experienced former officer in the U.S. Coast Guard, Greg Purdy. As the head of our Marine Operations Department, Greg’s highest priority is to guide and monitor the safety of our fleet. His own experience at sea, including serving as Captain of a Coast Guard vessel, combined with his depth of knowledge of cruise ship safety, ensures that he and the entire Celebrity Marine team continue to build on our strong safety culture.

Our Captains across the Celebrity fleet hold degrees from some of the world’s finest maritime institutions. You also may be surprised to know that, along with the Captain, every one of our ships has at least two other officers who hold the level of license required to serve as Captain of a cruise ship. Essentially, we have three people onboard every Celebrity ship who qualify as a Captain.

On average, each of Celebrity Cruises’ Captains has 25 years of seagoing experience. Besides the training and drills we conduct onboard, our Captains and their bridge teams also participate in navigation simulator courses and other training. One of the cornerstones of our training is that everyone is expected to speak up if they detect something wrong, regardless of their rank. Our shipboard officers and our shoreside team spend a considerable amount of time focused on how we can continually improve our safety procedures.

Along with our vast in-house expertise, we also rely on a group of experts known as our Maritime Safety Advisory Board. The group was established in 2006 to help guide our safety program and provide critical thinking from the world’s leading marine safety experts. The group includes former senior officials from the US and UK Coast Guards, as well as leadership from the academic world.

Our Chairman Richard Fain has said there’s no such thing as perfect safety, but there is such a thing as perfect dedication to safety. And that’s what we strive for daily.

Whether you’re a longtime cruiser, or have yet to sail with Celebrity, I hope you’ll help us reinforce the fact that cruising continues to maintain the best safety record of any industry in the travel business.

Our highly skilled and dedicated crew members look forward to welcoming you onboard soon to provide you with an outstanding vacation experience. Meanwhile, I thank you for your continued support of our brand and our business.

Sincerely,


Dan Hanrahan President & CEO

[mrssbi]

Got both X and RCI. Doesn't bother me a bit.

[SwissMyst]

I also recently noticed a lengthy and lush video advertisement for X - thought I was going to see Crystal logo finally at the end and was surprised to see the ad was for Celebrity.

Yes, they are moving like buzzards into the post-trauma kill. But then they also have to harvest the fall-out from Costa's carelessness, so why shouldn't they try to put some distance between themselves and "them". They didn't hire stupid captains (this time) so why should they suffer from the fall out?

[sail7seas]

Interesting comments.
Thanks.

[jcrandle]

Interesting that I've received no emails from CCL confirming their commitment to the safety of cruisers. I would have thought that would be one of the first steps in damage control.

[MSH from Norway]

.....and I got a "personal" e-mail from Adam Goldstein ceo of rccl, nicely tranlated in norwegian telling me how much they worried about security. He even sent me a video showing the newest about security.

But, from Hal, whitch I am going TA with in april I haven't heard anything from, and they are family with costa.......

[sail7seas]

So...... getting an e-mail from one cruise line or another makes it appear they are more concerned about safety and you will be safer on their ship than a cruise line that didn't (yet) send out an e-mail blast to millions?

I'm not being a 'wise guy'.... I'm really interested if I am missing something by not thinking "X" is more worried about my safety on their ships than HAL is because HAL didn't send me an e-mail about it??

I wouldn't have started the thread and asked the question if I wasn't interested in people's views in this regard.

[madera1]

We received the email from Royal Caribbean as we have sailed with them about 6 times, the last in 2008. The opening said the following:
All of us at Royal Caribbean International continue to extend our heartfelt sympathies to those affected by Carnival Corporation's recent tragic incident on the Costa Concordia. As a Crown & Anchor Society member and loyal Royal Caribbean guest, we know you may have some questions as the situation continues to unfold. It included a video and I take it as their attempt to reassure people that cruising is safe.

[Himself]

DH and I sailed "X' about 6 times total but have not sailed them in many years. We only sail HAL.

I just checked my e-mail and found the President of Celebrity chose to send me an e-mail, addressed to my first name (have we met? are we friends? :confused:) and the message of his multiple paragraph letter was how safe "X" ships are and we should sail.

Is he implying the Carnival Family of ships are all unsafe?
He thinks this is good marketing?
The letter was way too long to begin with and is such a turn off to me that were we considering sailing "X", which we are not, I would have second thoughts.

Anyone else here get the letter?
What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?

I think they might be trying to win cruisers at the expense of all ships in the Carnival line.
I think it is a bit of a low blow.

[Amuse Bouche]

I think ALL the cruise lines are looking for the proper timing to reassure potential passengers. I think this letter was a little premature. I think when the missing passengers have all been accounted for, the fuel is removed, and the Concordia is off the front page, we are going to see a glut of advertising.

I think the cruise lines know that people who cruise all the time, like us, view this tragedy realistically. It happened, the likelyhood of it happening again is even slimmer now, and we feel safe because we are really familiar with the whole process.

BUT...people who have never taken one, I think there is a tremendous amount of people who view a cruise like a once in a lifetime trip like a honeymoon...are going to be completely turned off and will stay with their typical fly out or road trip vacations. They are going to lose those people. Every year, people do a first time cruise, fall in love with the convenience and cost savings, and become regulars. They need those people, since the majority of typical cruisers are retirees.

We are going to see great savings after this year. My favorite cruise options I consider every year have been high priced with little discount this year. They were on an upswing. My June cruise is nearly sold out. For the first time since I started checking them out. They are in good shape right now because they are booked up pretty well. What about the 2013 season? It's going to tank!! I might have to do the Asian Pacific 17 day tour. It will probably cost me the same or less as the June 7 day Alaskan cruise I'm doing this year.

[DizzyDallasDi]

I think you're reading way too much into this. Stop over-analyzing the X email or lack of email from HAL or any other line. It's simply "damage control" and who gets an email from whatever cruise line should be of no concern. Who receives the blast emails isn't rocket science.

What happened to the Concordia was a horrible tragedy and all cruise lines are fearing the fall out from potential passengers that will now be too scared to cruise. They are only trying to calm the waters, so to speak, and assuage the fears.

It's marketing and PR 101.

[sail7seas]

I think they might be trying to win cruisers at the expense of all ships in the Carnival line.
I think it is a bit of a low blow.


THAT was my initial reaction and I find it poor taste and an unprofessional thing to do in the circumstances.
A bad choice IMO........

[Hestia]

I'm on X next month and, personally, I found the email comforting. I am glad they addressed it. I am glad they are telling me about their safety planning and education because I have been wondering and hoping all cruise lines will learn what they can from this tragedy and ensure it doesn't happen again.

If this letter came out a week from now, would it have been less likely to draw negative reactions? How about a month from now? Perhaps some feel the letter should never have been written? I have actually been curious to see the reaction of other cruise lines and had hoped mention might have appeared on the websites day zero.

Had I not received the email, I would have been looking up this info or requesting it personally. They saved me the time.

[DizzyDallasDi]

I'm on X next month and, personally, I found the email comforting. I am glad they addressed it. I am glad they are telling me about their safety planning and education because I have been wondering and hoping all cruise lines will learn what they can from this tragedy and ensure it doesn't happen again.

If this letter came out a week from now, would it have been less likely to draw negative reactions? How about a month from now? Perhaps some feel the letter should never have been written? I have actually been curious to see the reaction of other cruise lines and had hoped mention might have appeared on the websites day zero.

Had I not received the email, I would have been looking up this info or requesting it personally. They saved me the time.

Bingo! That is precisely why the cruise lines are sending these emails.

[sail7seas]

Would anyone suggest they would actually admit to safety deficiencies in an e-mail blast? Of course they are going to rave about how safe they are. Rather self-serving???

I don't feel comforted that because Celebrity implies they are safer than Carnival brands that they are. Who says so? Them?

[Amuse Bouche]

I must apologize, my previous post seems rather callous to me now, I didn't word it well.

I'm not implying that it will be great if they drop their rates in response to the disaster.

I was trying to say that we will be seeing them use many marketing tactics to regain their bookings. The cruise lines have always offered so many ways to lure you in so they don't have to sail half full. I'm sure it's taken a lot of effort when you think of how many passengers sail every week. Heck, it's difficult to sell out a $69 concert! Imagine trying to get 2500-6000 people to spend thousands just to fill one ship for one week!!! I think the marketing will be crazy.

My mentioning my plans for next year was to demonstrate that I'm not hesitant to take the chance at all. Heck, you take a chance standing up out of your bed every morning

[LAFFNVEGAS]

I have mixed feelings about the email. Interesting that it has been 16 months since we sailed on Celebrity and just 13 months since we sailed on RCCL I never received an email from either RCCL or Celebrity :confused: I checked all my emails and spam for work and home. I am not sure what their criteria is in sending out the emails. Maybe it is a process and more emails will go out tomorrow.

My initial thought is that it is not totally bad to be doing some over all damage control so that people who have cruised will continue to cruise but I do find the Celebrity email to be far too long in length and way too wordy. That email alone will make some people think OMG there really could be something that could go wrong. The email should have been more direct and to the point. But the more I reread the email I found it to be a bit tacky and actually a bit too soon. Although I am sure they wanted to get the jump on any of the CCL lines. I personally think it was a bit too soon unless they are already seeing a large amount of cancellations and are just trying to prevent anymore.

[DizzyDallasDi]

No where did X imply they were "safer than Carnival brands." They simply touted their strong commitment to safety and the professionalism of their captains and crew.

Once again, the email you received is marketing and PR 101.

If you choose to be offput by it, that's fine. But, just know that it's not a "we're the best and the rest are crap" type of correspondence.

[serendipity1499]

It could be taken as just reassuring customers, past and potential.

What would your reaction have been if it had come from HAL?

I don't think it's strange at all that the president of a cruise ship company would send an email to everyone on their list talking about their safety standards, after the Costa incident. I would actually find it strange if they didn't address their in house safety guidelines, and reassure all their past, present and future clients in this manner.

There have been many posting on other boards about people calling cruise ship companies and inquiring about their safety standards. What better way to address this, than sending out an email blast.

I sail Celebrity frequently, just got off the Solstice and have another Celebrity cruise booked. But I didn't get one of these letters from Celebrity. I did, however, get one from the RCL President.

It's simply a letter to attempt to ease the people's minds, to let prospective passengers know that safety is a priority for the cruise line. It's not a slam at Carnival. I suspect all cruise lines know they're in this mess together. No line is exempt for concern over their bottom line.

All cruise lines are worried about how this horrible incident is going to affect them in coming months, even years. They recognize that it will put many people off.

It's far more likely the letter would be sent to people who haven't cruised on their line recently rather than those who have.

I agree with you all..IMO Celebrity's letter was well written & was the result of many past, present & future passengers calling their Reservation lines with their safety concerns.. It's also an excellent marketing tool..I would be pleased to receive a letter or e-mail such as this, as it shows that Celebrity & RCCL take their passengers concerns seriously & would be reassuring to me..

What surprises me is that HAL has not sent e-mails about their safety procedures to their clients..Not all of us will see their blog on Facebook..

Betty

[VioletHorse]

But I did get the email today. Go figure. It looks like they're trolling for business.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

But I did get the email today. Go figure. It looks like they're trolling for business.
I have to agree that if you have not sailed on one of their three brands Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and Azamara then yes that is exactly what it is :rolleyes:

[jannandjohn]

put me on an X ship any day over HAL..

[serendipity1499]

Would anyone suggest they would actually admit to safety deficiencies in an e-mail blast? Of course they are going to rave about how safe they are. Rather self-serving???

I don't feel comforted that because Celebrity implies they are safer than Carnival brands that they are. Who says so? Them?



Sail where in the letter did they imply that they are safer than Carnival Brands?

IMO you are being too analytical about the letter..You may not feel comforted, but I would bet my last dollar that others would be comforted when they received this letter..

I was in the airline business & when one of our planes crashed in Brussels, we lost the entire U.S. Skating team..Our phone lines rang off the hook with cancellations & frightened passengers..It behooved us to immediately contact our Agents & try to assure them that Safety was our number one concern..And not only us, but many of the other European carriers were receiving calls & cancellations from concerned passengers.. Some of those passengers were canceling because they were superstitious about accidents happening in three's..

As I said before, perhaps HAL should send a letter to their past, present & future passengers addressing the safety issue..Not everyone goes on Facebook to read their blogs..

Betty

[sail7seas]

Sail where in the letter did they imply that they are safer than Carnival Brands?


IMO you are being too analytical about the letter..You may not feel comforted, but I would bet my last dollar that others would be comforted when they received this letter..

I was in the airline business & when one of our planes crashed in Brussels, we lost the entire U.S. Skating team..Our phone lines rang off the hook with cancellations & frightened passengers..It behooved us to immediately contact our Agents & try to assure them that Safety was our number one concern..And not only us, but many of the other European carriers were receiving calls & cancellations from concerned passengers.. Some of those passengers were canceling because they were superstitious about accidents happening in three's..

As I said before, perhaps HAL should send a letter to their past, present & future passengers addressing the safety issue..Not everyone goes on Facebook to read their blogs..

Betty


(my underline)

I take it as an 'unwritten inference'.

It seems there are varying opinions about this and I'm glad I asked for others' opinions.

I still find it distasteful but respect others are reading it differently than I am.
I have no desire for HAL to send any sort of similar letter and have not gone to Facebook to read their page there.

(I was a child when the skating team was lost in that accident but still remember it. It was shockingly dreadful.)

[woody73]

I received the e-mail today, and found it reassuring. I would not be surprised if other mass market cruise lines reached out in the same fashion.

Woody

[Wannaknow]

Would anyone suggest they would actually admit to safety deficiencies in an e-mail blast? Of course they are going to rave about how safe they are. Rather self-serving???

I don't feel comforted that because Celebrity implies they are safer than Carnival brands that they are. Who says so? Them?



I think some people have WAY too much time on their hands:rolleyes:.

[hulamoon]

I skimmed the letter. I liked knowing about their back up system should a captain become unable to fulfill their duties. Many people have questioned this all week long. It is a valid question.

I take the letter as reassurance should anyone want to cruise with them. They skipped the Tuesday special last week. I assume because it was too soon. Marketing for customers has pictures and discounts , this was damage control. No one reads letters like that unless they want to know something. Ymmv.

[ariawoman]

Interestingly, I didn't receive the email, and my last cruise was on X and the one I have booked this year is on X (sorry HAL, your itineraries weren't good for me this time :( Still hoping to get back to HAL when itinerary presents itself.

I don't think I'd feel weird about getting the email. It is in poor taste to try to lure people due to a tragedy - but that is unfortunately the way of the business world. You gotta use what you can in order to drum up business. It's a crappy reality, especially in this bad global economy.

Personally, I won't feel any more or less safe setting foot on board a cruise ship with ANY label on it, after all, it really isn't the line that was at fault here (imho) it was the person that was given control. Maybe it's the lines fault that they hired him - but I dont know, you can only control your employees to a certain extent and have to trust them the rest. I trust that each cruise line has our best interests in mind.

[iancal]

We got it. No big issue.

But I guess you can read anything in to it if you have a mind to.

I wonder what the reaction would be if the email had come from the President of HAL??

[startwin]

I got one from RCI yesterday, which also included a video on their safety procedures - and received one from X today. All good PR.

[bob brown]

I believe that Celebrity email was done to reassure its customers, and all cruisers in general, that overall, cruising is safe. Safer than most any other activitiy, and detailed some of the safety measures. I do not believe that they were trying to imply that they are safer than anyone else.
In the airline industry, whenever there is an accident, you will never hear an airline claiming to be safer than any other in an effort to take business away from the unfortunate victim. Rather, safety ads. extoll the safety efforts of the industry as a whole. There was that famous ad. run by C R Smith, president of American Airlines back in the early days of aviation that dared to ask "Afraid To Fly?" It went on to tell of the great strides made in airlines safety across the board, and never exploited his companies's advantage over any other. I beleve it is in this spirit that safety advertising is done by cruiselines, as well.

[world~citizen]

Would anyone suggest they would actually admit to safety deficiencies in an e-mail blast? Of course they are going to rave about how safe they are. Rather self-serving???

I don't feel comforted that because Celebrity implies they are safer than Carnival brands that they are. Who says so? Them?



You must be very tired from all the conclusions you are jumping to. ;)

We sail HAL and X, got the letter you speak of and we are choosing between an X and HAL cruise right now. The letter will make no difference with respect to our decision.

The industry is bracing for an anticipated reaction to current events, and trying to do an end run, or so it seems.

Smooth sailing...

[FrankNJ]

I wish Hal would send a letter assuring us that toilets and air conditioners have been checked and rechecked on all their ships per their "Signature of excellence" program.

[whogo]

Would anyone suggest they would actually admit to safety deficiencies in an e-mail blast? Of course they are going to rave about how safe they are. Rather self-serving???

I don't feel comforted that because Celebrity implies they are safer than Carnival brands that they are. Who says so? Them?


I will say that Celebrity is safer. Check the record.



Cruise ships capsized in the last 10 years with loss of life:

Carnival Corporation ships 1
Celebrity ships 0



How about copying and pasting this offensive, overly long, irritatingly informal, self-serving e-mail so we can all see this unwarranted attack by the Celebrity boss on your precious Holland America Line? Feel free to omit the salutation, we'll take your word for it that it was addressed to you by your first name.

[kazu]

I will say that Celebrity is safer. Check the record.



Cruise ships capsized in the last 10 years with loss of life:

Carnival Corporation ships 1
Celebrity ships 0



How about copying and pasting this offensive, overly long, irritatingly informal, self-serving e-mail so we can all see this unwarranted attack by the Celebrity boss on your precious Holland America Line? Feel free to omit the salutation, we'll take your word for it that it was addressed to you by your first name.

It was posted earlier in this thread

[aliaschief]

Have not received the letter but would like to know if there has been a panic run of cancellations throughout the industry that dictated the need of such a letter.

Perhaps some of our members who are associated with the travel industry can enlighten us whether there has been an increase in cancellations since the tragedy.

[whogo]

It was posted earlier in this thread

Thank you, it's a well written letter. Costa could have sent out a very similar letter a month ago with all sincerity.

[Oceanwench]

I haven't gotten any type of email from a cruise line, but I find the one from X very well written and at no time was it implied that *other* cruise lines were less than safe.

I would not be bothered in the slightest if I received that email.

Interestingly, I did receive an email from an American populist organization - the Miami branch - warning of all the dangers in the ocean and suggesting that Americans are much better staying off the seas and remaining on land in the USA! (And spending their vacation dollars in this country!)
Now THAT I found insulting! :D
Perhaps they don't realize the economy of South Florida relies on the cruising industry?

[HeatherInFlorida]

I think anyone upset by this is taking it all way too personally. It's business and nothing more. A disaster, one that never should have happened, occurred on a cruise ship and I'm going to guess these lines are being inundated by nervous phone calls. RCL decided to be pro-active and send out an email under the RCL or Celebrity banner to attempt to soothe passenger concerns.

They're da**ed if they do and da**ed if they don't. If they say nothing, passengers might wonder why nothing is being said. They send this out and a few people are upset because they think it's a jab at Carnival.

Because I sail Celebrity I'm automatically a C&A member on RCL so I got the email. Why I didn't get one from Celebrity I have no idea and it doesn't matter to me one way or the other. If I get something from HAL I won't think they're trying to cover themselves; I'll feel they are simply addressing a very bad situation and they should.

It's just a letter, it's public relations, it's business. It's my guess, and I would hope, that Carnival will be coming out with something at some point. Frankly, I think the sooner the better.

[kyriecat]

I wasn't really surprised to see the letter. I haven't sailed X since 2007 but I do have cruise booked with them for 2013. I received a similar letter last week from the CEO of my travel agency describing the safety of cruising. I didn't think the Celebrity letter was bashing Carnival or any other cruiseline's safety protocol. Carnival's ownership of Costa is not mentioned. I think the letter was meant to be reassurance that a similar incident wouldn't happen on Celebrity.

I didn't receive the letter from RCCL. I saw the excerpt that Madera1 posted where RCCL does specifically mention Carnival. That could be interpreted as a bash on Carnival's safety record. I'm a little surprised that I did not receive a copy since I have a RCCL cruise booked for next month and have been a frequent cruiser with them.

The cruise industry needs to address the incident. The information coming out about Concordia's course and actions of her captain puts a black mark on the whole industry. The preliminary information makes it seem that Concordia's captain was sailing in an area he shouldn't have been in, hit a rock that was clearly noted on navigational charts, delayed too long in calling to evacuate the ship, and left the ship before most passengers were off. Those are all major safety concerns bringing to mind, "If Concordia's captain behaved that way, do other captains?"

Since the Concordia incident, I have been asked at least 20 times by people who know I enjoy cruising whether I plan to cancel my upcoming cruises. Many of them said that they would not consider taking a cruise vacation because of the incident. I know one woman that I work with who canceled her summer cruise because she was afraid something similar could happen and she feared for the lives of her children.

I don't plan on canceling any cruises because of a single incident. I didn't cancel a trip requiring a flight the week after 9/11 even though many other people canceled their flights. I figure when my number is up, it won't matter whether I'm on a ship, plane, car, or even at home. I'm more likely to die because I broke my neck tripping over one of my cats while walking down the stairs at home than I am to die on a ship.

[DFD1]

To my knowledge HAL has not contacted its own customer base about safety issues in the wake of the Concordia grounding.

Makes one wonder whether or not the HAL marketing department is ignoring the industry-wide concern resulting from this disaster. It might behove them to take some similar action to reassure their own customer base.

From one point of view, what X did was just good marketing. Taking offense to their letter serves no purpose, IMO.

[SJSULIBRARIAN]

I received emails from both X and RCCL - have no problem with it. But will be interesting to see if any of the Carnival umbrella lines send out such a message.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Have not received the letter but would like to know if there has been a panic run of cancellations throughout the industry that dictated the need of such a letter.

Perhaps some of our members who are associated with the travel industry can enlighten us whether there has been an increase in cancellations since the tragedy.
I think it will be OK for me to comment here. We are in the Middle of Wave Season which is when a large percentage of cruises for the up coming year are sold. Cruise lines and agencies basically make the bread and butter so to speak in the months of January and February and it give a good projections of what our income will be for the year. Last week we did receive I believe just 3 cancellations (they were not my clients) but these people were also due final that gave the Costa incident as the reason. Over all last week sales were still good and what they should be for January then Friday hit with the Dr Phil show, 20/20 on ABC and Geraldo on Fox. The phones have basically gone dead or at least compared to how they should be ringing.
I personally do not know what the numbers overall are looking like for sales for the various cruise lines. I do think that once Costa and cruising is not mentioned daily in the news Wave Season will return. But fortunately for many cruise lines such as HAL many of the Spring Break cruises had sold well in December and early January to the point of many having limited availability. Alaska cruise sales also started much earlier than usual for the 2012 season with many ships also being limited for various cabin categories.
I think the biggest concern for the cruise lines is sales in Europe, it was already down mostly due to air costs but this may be what hurts Europe the most.

I also want to say that I am appalled at some of the comments in this thread. Such nasty comments being stated with postings that sound like school yard kids fighting. Even a few posts from CCers that may have not ever posted on the HAL board because they are fans of X but yet had to come here to post to help their fellow X fans.

Like I stated earlier I did not receive either email and I have sailed both of the brands that sent the emails. It was pure marketing 101 and it was just my opinion the letters were sent out a bit too soon. Should all the cruise lines send this out, YES but just barely over a week seems a bit early but they are obviously trying to save sales for Wave Season.

[DFD1]

LAFFNVEGAS, what you say makes perfect sense. These companies are just trying to save the most important part of the season...in an already bad economy.

What would it accomplish if the whole industry went into the can because of the Concordia grounding? Nothing, and it would hurt hundreds of thousands of hard-working people.

[jtl513]

It doesn't strike me as a dig at CCL lines.

[m steve]

only if they change their smoking policy on balconies. Anything else will have no affect on our choice of cruise lines.

[RevNeal]

I received the letter from Celebrity and wasn't bothered by it. I didn't read anything "between the lines," nor did I suspect that there might be anything "implied" by the letter; it just appeared to me to be a nominal example of PR-spin. Might there have been nefarious motivations behind the letter? I don't know, but I doubt it. That the letter was an attempt to reassure the cruising public, including their own cliental, seems most likely. Interestingly, however, I have cruised with Celebrity or RCCL, and have never indicated to either Line an interest in booking with them ... and, yet, I got the letter.

As an aside, since the accident I have had quite a few people (church members, fellow clergy, and other non-cruising friends) ask me: "Was it one of your ships that sunk?" My reply has been: "No. That was a Costa ship, not a Holland America ship. Different cruise line." Most people are uninformed about the differences, etc., and don't even realize that HAL is owned by the same parent Corporation that owns Costa.

[iancal]

I believe that the Carnival holding company controls 101 cruise ships in something like 11 cruise lines.

The nasty comments don't surprise me. Some seem wed to their favorite cruise line. This, combined with what is obviously too much spare time and an over active imagination always makes for interesting reading.

[RevNeal]

Interestingly, however, I have cruised with Celebrity or RCCL, and have never indicated to either Line an interest in booking with them ... and, yet, I got the letter.

That should read "Interestingly, however, I have never cruised with Celebrity or RCCL ..."

Sorry for the typo.

[sail7seas]

Hi Greg.....

We knew what you meant. :)


As to the Marketing 101 comments,
I think we all know WHY Celebrity's President sent the e-mail.
What we have different views about are how effective and/or appropriate it is.

[HeatherInFlorida]

..................
I also want to say that I am appalled at some of the comments in this thread. Such nasty comments being stated with postings that sound like school yard kids fighting. Even a few posts from CCers that may have not ever posted on the HAL board because they are fans of X but yet had to come here to post to help their fellow X fans.

........................... Should all the cruise lines send this out, YES but just barely over a week seems a bit early but they are obviously trying to save sales for Wave Season.

I have to have missed a page because I didn't see the appalling or nasty posts, but I do think I skipped one page ... maybe they were there.

I just don't see where this has anything to do with which cruise line we prefer. As others have said this affects the cruise lines industry wide and is certainly not confined to Carnival.

Truthfully, if anyone is jumping on the bandwagon to make money off a tragedy it's some media vultures, not another cruise line. Only this morning on the Today Show they had an entire segment warning people how few rights they have and how the passengers on board this ship are pretty much out of luck since in order to sue they need to return to Italy and hire an Italian attorney.

So as Lisa pretty much seems to suggest, the trouble really started when the media decided to have entire shows discuss the horrors of cruising. At the same time, people should be aware of the contract they essentially sign when booking a cruise and I was appalled, truthfully, to see people say they have never read any of it ... didn't even see it! One woman on the show whipped out her boarding pass thinking that was her contract!

Sorry, off subject I know. But let's not blame other cruise lines for addressing the situation even though Carnival hasn't. I don't think it's too soon because now is when everyone is being bombarded by media horror. I don't blame anyone for doing whatever they have to in an effort to calm the waters (pardon the pun).

[Wannaknow]

I wish Hal would send a letter assuring us that toilets and air conditioners have been checked and rechecked on all their ships per their "Signature of excellence" program.

Now this is a topic worth discussing - not this ridiculous "make-work" silly question. And, yes, I know the toilet/air conditioner question has been discussed thoroughly, but no real info has really been received or made public.

[kazu]

Now this is a topic worth discussing - not this ridiculous "make-work" silly question. And, yes, I know the toilet/air conditioner question has been discussed thoroughly, but no real info has really been received or made public.

In all honesty, other cruise lines have issues with vibrations, air conditioning or toilets. This happens from time to time. It's a risk on any ship. ;) I'm not excusing it, just stating the facts! On other lines, we have had a non working toilet, a small flood, ventilation that had to be addressed, etc. Ship happens.

Hal has posted on the FB page that the issue has been addressed. I take that to mean fixed and no more complaints so we have to assume so.

What would be nice is that if passengers had to endure this, that something was done for them to ease their cruise or help them with the next one. Whether it be an obc, a couple bottles of wine, free PG dinner, whatever. When something is done to show empathy, people have a totally different attitude. JMO;)

[Oceanwench]

I haven't seen any evidence of nastiness here either, just the usual back-and-forth comments.

How soon is too soon for cruise lines to assure passengers (or potential passengers?) of their concern for safety?

Isn't that what companies do after a major incident? When people were getting sick from eating "bad" cantaloupe, our grocery store was quick to post signs that its cantaloupe was from another source and not contaminated.
It happens all the time when there's a recall.

I think it makes more sense for Celebrity to send the email now, as opposed to a month from now. The question of safety is on people's minds now.

It's a very compelling story, and it will stay in the headlines for a long time. People are still fascinated by the Titanic ...
The photos of the Costa ship are frightening -- and available. So are videos of what took place aboard. There are any number of people who want to come forward and share their experiences.
So it will remain in the media, because people want it.
Think of the long thread here discussing the tragedy, and how many links to various stories were posted.
People want to read about it, and each time something new was written or broadcast, a link was posted.

[rafinmd]

May I share something that did strike me as a bit presumptive. I did eventually get the letter (but not the one from RCI) and was a bit taken aback by this paragraph:

"Whether you’re a longtime cruiser, or have yet to sail with Celebrity, I hope you’ll help us reinforce the fact that cruising continues to maintain the best safety record of any industry in the travel business."

Why is Mr. Hanrahan suggesting that I have to select either one or the other. I happen to feel that I currently fall into both camps, and resent a suggestion that my many voyages with Carnival, Crystal, Cunard, HAL, Silversea, RCI, Windstar, and a number of smaller lines do not qualify me as an experienced cruiser.

Roy

[world~citizen]

May I share something that did strike me as a bit presumptive. ...Why is Mr. Hanrahan suggesting that I have to select either one or the other....

He isn't, but thanks for sharing.

Smooth sailing...

[cruise crazed]

I was not offended at all by the contents of the letter. In fact, it seems like a good business decision and I was appreciative of the information. It is another marketing tool that Celebrity choose to use at this time.

[world~citizen]

...The question of safety is on people's minds now....

That is exactly my view also.

[iancal]

.....Hal has posted on the FB page that the issue has been addressed. I take that to mean fixed and no more complaints so we have to assume so.


My former management position sometimes involved coming up with weasel words,either in contracts, letters of intent, or written propsals , that were purposely ambiguous.

I would in not assume that an issue is fixed because the company uses the word 'addressed'. Addressed can mean anything including they have plans to fix whatever it is during the next drydock.

IF it was fixed, they would most likely use the words 'resolved' or 'fixed' somewhere in the reply.

[HeatherInFlorida]

For some reason this continues to trouble me and I'm pretty sure that the only people who feel the timing is wrong, or are offended in some way by 1 or 2 emails, are those who are taking it personally, i.e., assuming RCL is slamming Carnival in some way when that just doesn't seem to be the case.

The time to address a situation such as this is here and now, not when (and if) it's had time to blow over. It's an issue right now when people are most nervous about upcoming cruises they may have booked. I wish I knew when you all feel it's appropriate to address issues of safety and the competency of the officers who master the ships.

As to "knowing" why the letters were sent, I think there are several reasons and none of them are wrong. Sure it's about marketing, but it's also about being pro-active. I'm just not getting why anyone feels anyone is besmirching Carnival (or HAL). There is simply no implication of that in the letters.

And frankly, I see this event as human error. Had it been a mechanical problem then pointing fingers at a particular ship or line might be in order. But this was caused by a living human being or beings for reasons we may never know positively. And what went wrong from there was first a result of no one being the leader, stepping up to the plate, and making sure all safety measures were being followed to get everyone safely off that ship.

Truthfully .... with a debacle such as this was, I'm absolutely astounded that there weren't more deaths. There were more than 4000 people on that ship and most of them made it to safety. No lives should have been lost, not a single one, but I consider it a miracle and a testament to all the people helping other people even as they faced enormous danger themselves.

[Silver sailor]

May I share something that did strike me as a bit presumptive. I did eventually get the letter (but not the one from RCI) and was a bit taken aback by this paragraph:

"Whether you’re a longtime cruiser, or have yet to sail with Celebrity, I hope you’ll help us reinforce the fact that cruising continues to maintain the best safety record of any industry in the travel business."

Why is Mr. Hanrahan suggesting that I have to select either one or the other. I happen to feel that I currently fall into both camps, and resent a suggestion that my many voyages with Carnival, Crystal, Cunard, HAL, Silversea, RCI, Windstar, and a number of smaller lines do not qualify me as an experienced cruiser.

Roy

Don't see your point at all
One can have numerous cruises on several lines and be considered a "longtime cruiser" but have yet to sail with Celebrity
Too much is being inferred by the comment

[WpgCruise]

I think some people are wanting to take this eMail from RCL/Celebrity in a direction that was never intended.
I perceive no “slight” against Carnival and by implication HAL in the eMail.
What I do see is a cruise company reaching out to past, present and potential customers, reassuring them and frankly I think it is the right thing to do.
I have been looking for a similar letter from HAL, but to date nothing. That is too bad because given HAL’s demographic I would think a letter offering reassurance about the safety of their ships would be appropriate.

[DFD1]

WpgCruise: Right On!

HAL is already late in getting in touch with their customer base. If they don't do it soon, they will leave a marketing vacuum that other cruise lines are already trying to fill.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

I am not feeling the least bit insulted as to the text of the emails what I am having a hard time grasping/understanding is what constituted who they sent their emails to.

I have sailed both Celebrity and RCCL within the last 16 months. I have been a member of Crown and Anchor since 2002 and am also a member of Captain's Club. I did not receive this email from either cruise line. Yet several here that have never sailed either Celebrity or RCCL and in several cases have not sailed either cruise line have received this email :confused:
I could see if there was a mass email to all that have sailed both of these lines but that is not the case.
I do get rather frequent emails from Celebrity and RCCL and those do not go to my spam mail. Just curious why so selective with this email.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Well HAL better get there email out because I just received an email from NCL......At least NCL sent me one :D

This is most of what Kevin Sheehan sent out.

We want to take this opportunity to assure you that the safety of our guests and crew is, at all times, our number one priority.

We operate all of our vessels to meet and exceed the requirements of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention and the International Safety Management Code maritime standards, the international safety requirements which govern the cruise industry. Every crew member is well trained in the Company's stringent safety protocols, participating in weekly safety drills onboard every one of our ships.

Our Captains are experienced seafarers with an average of 33 years at sea. All of our Captains come up through the ranks progressing from Second Officer to First Officer and then Chief Officer up to Staff Captain before they can become Captains. On average, it takes 15 years for a Captain to be promoted into that role. We further ensure that our Captains regularly undergo rigorous simulation training on navigation and bridge operations.

To assist our Captains and Officers while at sea, we have extensive navigation protocols in place. Our bridge operations are based on a two-person team approach. Accordingly, there are always two officers in charge of bridge operations, mandating strict adherence to operating procedures. Furthermore, our bridge teams follow pre-set voyage plans which are thoroughly reviewed and discussed by the Captain and bridge team prior to port departures and arrivals. In addition, all of our ships employ the latest state-of-the-art navigational equipment and technology to ensure that our bridge teams have the most accurate data regarding the planned itinerary.

Prior to every cruise setting sail, we hold a mandatory safety drill for all guests during which important safety information is reviewed and demonstrated. We also show an extensive safety video which runs continuously on the stateroom televisions should further information be required.

We appreciate you choosing Norwegian Cruise Line.

[serendipity1499]

WpgCruise: Right On!

HAL is already late in getting in touch with their customer base. If they don't do it soon, they will leave a marketing vacuum that other cruise lines are already trying to fill.

Actually Someone on this thread mentioned that HAL has addressed this safety issue in their Face book pages..However, I wonder how many of their customers subscribe to Facebook..

Re the insults which Lisa mentioned..I agree with her..There have been several short one sentence insults that are uncalled for..

I see no reason for not being civil to one another..I may not agree with the OP, but I've always tried to be civil..

Recently, I've started reporting insults to the Moderators...Maybe if more of us would do it, those whose posts are pulled would get the message! Use the little reporting "exclamation point" ! , which is to the right of the post No.,in the top right hand corner of the offensive post which you believe is an insult or harassing.. The Moderators will decide if they should be pulled or not..

Just my opinion..

Cheers,

Betty

[kazu]

For Betty - in all honesty - this board is kind when i compare the Carnival and Costa threads (I have been following because of the tragedy). Doesn't excuse anything here - but I have to say this is mild.

For Lisa (LaffnLasVegas) - I agree - this is marketing 101 - I think the only reason some were upset is how close it is to the incident. all the bodies have not been found yet. (I would like to hope that there are survivors, but i don't think that is possible at this stage of the game).

I don't know why they are reaching out to people who haven't sailed on them in years - perhaps to recapture lost market? Maybe they think recent cruisers are not at risk? i don't know.

For Heather In Florida - everyone reacts to tragedy in different ways - some may well take this personally as this may just be too quick for them. Timing is everything. I know it's 'wave season' but all the bodies haven't been found yet.

I don't see a lot wrong with the letter other than timing. I totally understand marketing 101 but I also understand empathy, understanding and giving people a time to adjust and grieve. JMHO:)

[hulamoon]

I don't see a mystery here. They sent out a mass market letter to as many folks as they could and probably used a cruise critic list. I signed up for that when I signed on. I really don't think someone sat in a back office all week wondering who to send this letter to. They sent it to known cruisers more than likely.

For anyone who didn't recieve it, I wouldn't waste a second being insulted by it. Life is to short.Emails get lost. Lists do not always work. What matters is how many people got it and that some of them felt reassured and they answered some questions that inquiring minds will be asking.

Although immediate surveys showed known cruisers will cruise, they want us to remember when others who have not cruised freak out that the industry still has a nice safety record. I imagine lines with new ships to fill care a lot about that. And just because a survey says everyone will keep cruising it doesn't mean new information won't make some hesitate. Or given time people slow down their cruising because this is in the back of their minds.

News about the mutiny today, gave me a little pause. A mutiny??

The news is giving a lot of negative press aobout cruising lately, some of that may stick. Not to HAL cruisers of course, to some.

[DFD1]

If HAL has done nothing other than a Face Book posting, they are missing a lot of their market. There are an untold number of HAL passengers who never go near Face Book.

As for timing, of course a respectable amount of time should pass to acknowledge the saddness and anguish of those affected by the grounding of Concordia. With the beginning of salvage operations, some would say that time has passed.

[kazu]

If HAL has done nothing other than a Face Book posting, they are missing a lot of their market. There are an untold number of HAL passengers who never go near Face Book.

As for timing, of course a respectable amount of time should pass to acknowledge the saddness and anguish of those affected by the grounding of Concordia. With the beginning of salvage operations, some would say that time has passed.

Not much of salvage has started. they are still waiting for permission.

Just me, and yes, I guess, it's personal, there's still a lot of people to find (I hope for the sake of their families and their relatives).

Totally agree that HAL has to reach people other than facebook and I would hope that they would do it. But I am pleased that they have chosen to wait more than one and 1/2 weeks to send out the message.

Three weeks is fine timing for me or sooner if all the bodies are found.

Wave sale or no - there needs to be some respect for those who have passed (I know, it's personal again, sorry)

[sail7seas]

For Betty - in all honesty - this board is kind when i compare the Carnival and Costa threads (I have been following because of the tragedy). Doesn't excuse anything here - but I have to say this is mild.

For Lisa (LaffnLasVegas) - I agree - this is marketing 101 - I think the only reason some were upset is how close it is to the incident. all the bodies have not been found yet. (I would like to hope that there are survivors, but i don't think that is possible at this stage of the game).

I don't know why they are reaching out to people who haven't sailed on them in years - perhaps to recapture lost market? Maybe they think recent cruisers are not at risk? i don't know.

For Heather In Florida - everyone reacts to tragedy in different ways - some may well take this personally as this may just be too quick for them. Timing is everything. I know it's 'wave season' but all the bodies haven't been found yet.

I don't see a lot wrong with the letter other than timing. I totally understand marketing 101 but I also understand empathy, understanding and giving people a time to adjust and grieve. JMHO:)



Good post, Kazu.

Thank you.





If HAL has done nothing other than a Face Book posting, they are missing a lot of their market. There are an untold number of HAL passengers who never go near Face Book.

As for timing, of course a respectable amount of time should pass to acknowledge the saddness and anguish of those affected by the grounding of Concordia. With the beginning of salvage operations, some would say that time has passed.


I agree with your comment about Facebook. Many of us have no interest in it.

HAL seems to want to communicate through Facebook as much as possible and they are missing a large audience with trying to make that a primary information vehicle IMO .... if that is, indeed, what they are doing.

Sure lots of folks go often, some go occassionally and some don't go to Facebook at all.

I would not welcome an e-mail of the sort I received from Celebrity anymore than I welcomed theirs. JMO....

I try to add IMO when I post the sort of posts that are just my opinion.

[Oceanwench]

The cruise lines don't know when [or if] all the bodies will be found. I think they waited enough time -- it's not as if they sent out the email one day after the tragic event.

People want to talk about timing, respect for the dead and missing, etc. -- what about the thread on this board that popped up right after the event, discussing the effects on CCL stock?

[Amuse Bouche]

For everyone who doesn't access Facebook, this is cut and paste directly from it.

[/URL][URL="http://www.facebook.com/HALCruises"]Holland America Line (http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#)


We would like to take this opportunity to remind you that safety is our number one priority and we have an excellent record of safe operation throughout our company’s history. To ensure a safe environment for our guests and crew and maintain our excellent safety record, all officers and crew undergo comprehensive regular training which meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements. Every ship under...goes periodic inspections as mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard and other regulatory authorities and international law to verify safety processes and procedures. In addition, the classification society conducts annual inspections of the ship and our safety processes.

International maritime law requires that we conduct a mandatory lifeboat drill for all passengers conducted within 24 hours of departure. In many instances, we conduct the drill prior to sailing.See More


· January 18 at 5:20pm (http://www.facebook.com/HALCruises/posts/10150497317703406) ·

[ejd]

Not much of salvage has started. they are still waiting for permission.

Just me, and yes, I guess, it's personal, there's still a lot of people to find (I hope for the sake of their families and their relatives).

Totally agree that HAL has to reach people other than facebook and I would hope that they would do it. But I am pleased that they have chosen to wait more than one and 1/2 weeks to send out the message.

Three weeks is fine timing for me or sooner if all the bodies are found.

Wave sale or no - there needs to be some respect for those who have passed (I know, it's personal again, sorry)


Well said. Recovery operations are now underway. There are more bodies to recover. Salvage operations are also commecing.

I don't need HAL, Carnival or or anybody telling me how safe their ships are right now. Take care of the current business, recovery operations, etc.

A little respect for our fellow cruises who have passed.

[DizzyDallasDi]

Given the random sampling of people that have received the emails from X, NCL, etc., I wonder if any of the Concordia passengers, crew, or loved ones of those who are deceased or missing received them. Now, those are the folks who have a valid reason to be upset.

I haven't read HAL's facebook page so I don't know what it says. But, I'm sure the lawyers, marketing dept., and many others at Carnival Corp. are spending countless hours deciding how to word their (and Costa's) response to this mess. Damage contol is never an easy task and given the enormous impact this has had, and will continue to have, I know they're weighing each syllable of every word. I wouldn't want to be in their shoes.

[aliaschief]

Lisa, thanks for repling to my earlier question. I have been away all day on my volunteer day.

[jcrandle]

In light of the impact of the Concordia disaster on the entire cruise industry, I'm flabbergasted that EVERY cruise line has not sent email blasts to everyone on their mailing lists to emphasize their safety record, and their commitment to safety. IMO, it is not only PR, it is also re-assurance. I would not have been surprised to receive emails from river cruise companies that I have never cruised with.

I will make no judgements about the Concordia disaster, but will leave that to the professionals.

[hulamoon]

DDD..That is a good point. It is very painful to have media and press releases in your face when tragedy strikes your family.

[michmike]

that I booked a new trip on HAL today (Nieuw Amsterdam 12/9). *L*

I'm certain that if you evaluate any form of transportation, that cruise ships in general are the safest of any mode, given the number of folks who sail weekly and the miles traveled.

The Costa tragedy was pure and simple, human error/stupidity.

Given the chance, I'd board any ship tomorrow, with no concerns other than what the bartender's skills are re old fashioneds. *S*

[kazu]

Interestingly enough Gene Grabowski who is a Crisis Communications Expert out of Washington is being interviewed by Canada AM this morning.

A very interesting interview and then..................

The reporter asked about all these emails and is this the time.

He says no - "in the middle of a crisis and we are still in the middle of it, this is not the time to be marketing. This is the time to stay silent. Once it passes then you put your emphasis on marketing. right now all it does is remind people how dangerous and inconvenient and sometimes dirty travelling on cruise lines can be".

Interesting

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Interestingly enough Gene Grabowski who is a Crisis Communications Expert out of Washington is being interviewed by Canada AM this morning.

A very interesting interview and then..................

The reporter asked about all these emails and is this the time.

He says no - "in the middle of a crisis and we are still in the middle of it, this is not the time to be marketing. This is the time to stay silent. Once it passes then you put your emphasis on marketing. right now all it does is remind people how dangerous and inconvenient and sometimes dirty travelling on cruise lines can be".

Interesting

Thanks Jacqui, That was totally my first thought too, while some may think it is comforting from their favorite cruise lines others do not. I totally understand how important Wave Season is and trust me it is starting to be felt :o But I would rather the emails have waited at least 3 weeks or till the ship has been moved and out of sight of the media.
I feel the emails were a knee jerk reaction from the constant media and especially after Friday between Dr. Phil, 20/20 and Geraldo. Neither of these three shows gave any more information all they were doing were sensationalizing the event for ratings. All three claimed this would hurt the cruise industry :mad:

[sail7seas]

Interestingly enough Gene Grabowski who is a Crisis Communications Expert out of Washington is being interviewed by Canada AM this morning.

A very interesting interview and then..................

The reporter asked about all these emails and is this the time.

He says no - "in the middle of a crisis and we are still in the middle of it, this is not the time to be marketing. This is the time to stay silent. Once it passes then you put your emphasis on marketing. right now all it does is remind people how dangerous and inconvenient and sometimes dirty travelling on cruise lines can be".

Interesting





Clearly there are two thoughts in this regard.

If I didn't think it was a topic for conversation from varying viewpoints, I would not have started this thread.

I find nothing comforting by a company I have not sailed with in many years going out of their way to land, uninvited, in my mail box telling me how safe they are. Of course, they have determined that for themselves. Just because they tell me how safe they are, what does that mean? :confused: Of course, I think them as safe as all other cruise lines in similar category but I don't want them telling me so in this way. Did anyone expect they would prounounce themselves 'unsafe'?

I wouldn't welcome HAL landing in my mail box with a similar statement AT THIS TIME anymore than Celebrity, with whom I have no intention of sailing.

I may be the minority but the above quote seems to indicate some professionals agree with my thoughts.

Again, JMO......

Thank you for that post, Kazu.

[HeatherInFlorida]

...................
For Heather In Florida - everyone reacts to tragedy in different ways - some may well take this personally as this may just be too quick for them. Timing is everything. I know it's 'wave season' but all the bodies haven't been found yet.

I don't see a lot wrong with the letter other than timing. I totally understand marketing 101 but I also understand empathy, understanding and giving people a time to adjust and grieve. JMHO:)

While I can understand some people might take the tragedy itself personally (certainly if they have friends or family affected), I don't understand getting the letter and feeling it is a personal attack either on us or the cruise line we love.

As to the timing, I still feel strongly that now is the time it must be addressed. People are looking for information right now, they are nervous this minute, they want to know how or why this happened ... how long should they wait to address it? If not now, when?

Frankly, I think a letter, email or otherwise, is a better way to address the issue than posts on Facebook. But I wouldn't criticize any company for the way they handle this as long as they address it in some way.

I guess what it really comes down to is whether we view the emails as marketing. I did not; honestly. I received the email and thought it was RCCL's way of calming the fears of cruisers or possible cruisers. Maybe I'm just gullible, but that was my reaction. Still is ... the email addressed the safety and security aboard their ships, nothing more.

[DFD1]

Heather, I think you're right. It was RCCL's way of calming the fears, but the residual effect was a positive marketing statement. The two are not mutually exclusive, IMO.

I received the email from NCL's president today. It was posted here a day or so ago.

[iancal]

These things just get sent out to mailing lists. I know from experience that there are often many mailing lists in each company, some more up to date that others. I costs money to keep them current, or to hire an outside firm to do it.

So you got an unwanted email? That is what the delete key is for. We constantly get email, and snail mail brocures from HAL and other lines that we do not particularly want. Often these come from cruise lines that we have never tried. So we delete, block, or bin the communication.

Is there anyone out there who does not ever get junk mail or junk email from an unwanted source? If we took offence to every marketing piece from firms that we have never heard of or dealt with our life would be consumed with resentment. Time to focus on the positive and move forward.

Oops, the NCL safety and security memo just landed in my mailbox after I posted this. I did not get wrapped around the axle. Read the header and hit the delete key. Simple, no sweat.

[lvz2cruz]

I received the email from NCL today and thought it tastefully done--reassuring of safety measures on their line without blaming or capitalizing on the mistakes of Costa. I think it needs to be addressed now rather than later. In a month it will be old news and perhaps reopen old wounds of those moving on.
Every cable news station has several shows or pieces about the Concordia daily and those speaking often refer to "all the dark dirty secrets of what happens on cruise ships". I have yet to hear anyone comment in a positive light--but good news does not get the ratings catastrophes do.
If I had never cruised I might think this was not a safe, reliable, or professional means of travel. The lines are being proactive to alleviate fears caused by the unusual accident and the media's sky is falling reaction to it.

[pms4104]

I think these emails simply are an opportunistic way for cruiselines' spinmeisters and marketing people to take advantage of a terrible tragedy ... perhaps lure a few passengers to their sailings. In the marketing and business world, it's all about $$$$, but I don't think this is the right time to exploit the Concordia incident.

Why did none of these lines find it important a month ago to spin their safety concerns?

[Susie51]

I haven't received the letter, but I think it is a good marketing stradegy. Currently, I am booked with RCI, so perhaps I won't be receiving the letter.

[iancal]

Probably because a month or so ago a mailing about safety would not resonate with the target recipients. Last month it was all about free upgrades, great service, sophisticated environments, etc.

Since Concordia, it has all been about safety. Give it a month or so and it will all be about something else. Marketing shifts focus to address (and sometimes even create) customer concern/opinion. That is where the opportunity is.

[lorekauf]

These things just get sent out to mailing lists. I know from experience that there are often many mailing lists in each company, some more up to date that others. I costs money to keep them current, or to hire an outside firm to do it.

So you got an unwanted email? That is what the delete key is for. We constantly get email, and snail mail brocures from HAL and other lines that we do not particularly want. Often these come from cruise lines that we have never tried. So we delete, block, or bin the communication.

Is there anyone out there who does not ever get junk mail or junk email from an unwanted source? If we took offence to every marketing piece from firms that we have never heard of or dealt with our life would be consumed with resentment. Time to focus on the positive and move forward.

Oops, the NCL safety and security memo just landed in my mailbox after I posted this. I did not get wrapped around the axle. Read the header and hit the delete key. Simple, no sweat.
Exactly my thoughts. I get tons of mail I don't want, especially in my hotmail account. I rarely read anything in there and just delete it. No biggie!

[Opinions]

Why did none of these lines find it important a month ago to spin their safety concerns?

How many of us a month ago posted questions about cruiseline safety...I don't recall reading many...Perhaps the cruiselines are responding to the many questions being raised since this disaster...I welcome any information they can provide about safety.

[pms4104]

Probably because a month or so ago a mailing about safety would not resonate with the target recipients. Last month it was all about free upgrades, great service, sophisticated environments, etc.

Since Concordia, it has all been about safety. Give it a month or so and it will all be about something else. Marketing shifts focus to address (and sometimes even create) customer concern/opinion. That is where the opportunity is.

How many of us a month ago posted questions about cruiseline safety...I don't recall reading many...Perhaps the cruiselines are responding to the many questions being raised since this disaster...I welcome any information they can provide about safety.
It should have been sufficient for the cruiselines to post a concern-for-safety message on their respective websites ... unless they are using the Concordia, and their various spam emails, to try to generate bookings.

And, yes, next month it'll be something else because so many of us are afflicted with the Short Attention Span Syndrome.

I guess I just see it differently ... and we all are entitled to our own point of view.

[world~citizen]

...And, yes, next month it'll be something else because so many of us are afflicted with the Short Attention Span Syndrome.


I think this story is going to be around for a while.

Smooth sailing...

[sail7seas]

It should have been sufficient for the cruiselines to post a concern-for-safety message on their respective websites ... unless they are using the Concordia, and their various spam emails, to try to generate bookings.

And, yes, next month it'll be something else because so many of us are afflicted with the Short Attention Span Syndrome.

I guess I just see it differently ... and we all are entitled to our own point of view.


Yes, that ^^^

That would leave the choice to each of us to seek their safety message if we chose. It would make it our choice to see what they have to say at our choice when we feel we are interested. ... if ever.

IMO

[KirkNC]

I suspect it is more intended to reassure past customers, after all, they don't know who else you have sailed with.

[cruzeluver]

Royal, Celebrity, Norwegian and Princess have all sent out similar emails. I am quite confident it is being done to reassure those booked.

[sail7seas]

Royal, Celebrity, Norwegian and Princess have all sent out similar emails. I am quite confident it is being done to reassure those booked.


That was part of my point......

We are NOT booked and have not sailed Celebrity in many years.
I didn't need or want any reassurance from a cruise line we don't sail.

And that is why it is my opinion it is far more about trying to sell us a cruise than to reassure us. I think they are improperly taking advantage of what they see as a marketing opportunity but linked to a tragic event. Thus my distaste.

[3rdtimecruising]

HAL put out at least one blurb this weekend on Facebook regarding it's continuing commitment to safety. I am sure more assurances will follow.
It will also be interesting to see if the Muster on the Oosterdam differs this weekend from what we experienced in October.
I was surprised to note in October that no one was trying to take any kind of roll during Muster.

Hello localady,

I received an email from NCL this morning that was reassuring about the staff and safety on their ships. They touched on muster drills,which have always been on deck, and safety videos available while on board..I was comforted by Kevin Sheehan's words.

In reply to your comment about muster drills on HAL, I too am interested in seeing how our muster drill goes on the Zuiderdam in March. Last March on the Eurodam we noticed that our muster leader did not take any kind of roll call at all. We have cruised twice a year for the past 4 years and note that some of the lines do not require that you bring you life jacket with you and that many of the musters were held indoors and not near your muster station. As recall the Euroda was on deck.

Personally, I feel cruising will be safer than ever.:)

Ann

[cruzeluver]

I would imagine that all cruise lines are getting quite a few phone calls and emails from concerned guests. Sending a mass email out would hopefully alleviate some of the call volume. And it would be far easier to just send to everyone they have an email address for than only to currently booked guests.

In addition to being sent these emails from lines I have sailed (Royal, NCL and Celebrity) I have also received one from Princess even though I have not sailed with them and am not currently booked on a Princess cruise. I supplied them with my email address when requesting a brochure awhile back and to receive current promotions.

[josie724]

I just received an email from NCL as well, we cruised with them once in 2002. But I have been getting A LOT of promotional emails from ALL Cruise Companies.

[world~citizen]

That was part of my point......
...I think they are improperly taking advantage of what they see as a marketing opportunity but linked to a tragic event. Thus my distaste.[/B]

My feeling is these are industry wide initiatives more focused on stopping passenger hemorrhaging than taking advantage of an opportunity presented by a fatal tragedy.

It seems to me for what you suggest to be true, X and other lines would be actively exploiting the dead and bereaved associated with the Concordia incident. You are not saying that, are you?

[iancal]

I am surprised that HAL has not sent one out to their customers....if only because of the Veendam collision with a crane in a South American port.

[HeatherInFlorida]

We can be removed from email lists if we want. Anyone who has cruised Celebrity becomes an automatic member of the Captains Club and will receive emails from time to time depending on their preferences.

On their website they afford the opportunity to check off what you would like to receive and what you would prefer not to.

At the end of every email Celebrity gives you the opportunity to be excluded from all commercial emails from them. I'm disabling the link "click here" because if you clicked on it you will opt me out:

"If you wish to change your preferences or opt to be excluded from future commercial emails from Celebrity Cruises, click here or visit: Celebrity.com (http://click.email.celebritycruises.com/?qs=f9804205e29474e324b215078fcd93f337d4c5c7e97ff0 7324f8bcaa458d01e9957949b2669a62dd)

©2011 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships' registry: Malta and Ecuador.

We hope you enjoyed this email from:
Celebrity Cruises Inc.
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
www.celebritycruises.com (http://click.email.celebritycruises.com/?qs=f9804205e29474e324b215078fcd93f337d4c5c7e97ff0 7324f8bcaa458d01e9957949b2669a62dd)"

[sail7seas]

Do you still think it is just about soothing fears and assuring cruisers cruising is safe????

Just now, seems Celebrity again fell into my e-mail box and today's message is:


"Subject: Discover the latest in your Celebrity Cruises January E-Newsletter"


Is this, too, just about making me feel safe and isn't about marketing 101? All they want is to sell me a cruise.
As I have said, it is very distasteful to me for them to be so agressively marketing to people who don't even sail with them........ at this time after the recent tragedy.

I never in any way contact them.
I never, not ever, go to their website.
I have sought no connection with them for many years and want none.
Why are they suddenly so interested in my e-mail box?

[josie724]

Sail, just go to the bottom of the email and unsubscribe....I get tons, and tons of emails from ALL different companies. Anytime I buy something online my email address gets tossed to their affiliates like a good salad......LOL

[hulamoon]

I didn't notice recieving a letter of this type from Princess, I am not offended however.

The line I am getting the most marketing from right now? HAL. Lots of emails about discounted cruises, not safety messages. I am not offended by this either, that is their job, to fill ships and keep people employed and make stock holders happy.

It is always a good idea to cancel advertising when you have just wrecked a ship, or aircraft. When I worked in broadcasting our standing contracts insisted all advertisements be pulled in the event of an aircraft tragedy, even if it was not their aircraft. And by the way if they weren't they would not pay if they ran. But that was a long time ago, and while I am sure seeing an Ad for Costa right now, would get on my nerves I would be less offended by a sister line. But still no ads should run on TV yet. That means, social media and email is going to be used a lot, and that may be why I am seeing so many sales pieces from sister lines right now.

Consider contacting Celebrity and tell them to take you off all communications because they disturb you and you are not interested in their product. Maybe Cruise Critic gives them a list of posters to that board, you have asked questions there recently, but if you sailed six times they may think you are a likely return customer. But I agree with others, the delete key is easier.

I am ready for a world where narcistic leaders are not leading anyone, or the captains on ships.

[DFD1]

They want your money!

That's why they're interested in your email box.

[peaches from georgia]

Opt out or just block sender on your computer. Or do both. You're not forced to read every email that comes in. Just delete without reading or block sender and problem is gone for good. Is this really worth wasting so much time on?

[world~citizen]

I just received this email from HAL:

"Take advantage of reduced airfare to Europe on select sailings from these Canadian cities**"

How different is that from your:

"Discover the latest in your Celebrity Cruises January E-Newsletter"

How should I interpret that?

We all get unsolicited email I think.

[marco]

Bottom line....Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.....unless they are also offering a 25% (or more) discount if you sail with us again!

[hulamoon]

This talk about interest in your email box is starting to sound a little dirty.

[world~citizen]

... Is this really worth wasting so much time on?

Well, that is embarrassing.:o

No, it is not. IMO of course.

Smooth sailing...

[HeatherInFlorida]

We can be removed from email lists if we want. Anyone who has cruised Celebrity becomes an automatic member of the Captains Club and will receive emails from time to time depending on their preferences.

On their website they afford the opportunity to check off what you would like to receive and what you would prefer not to.

At the end of every email Celebrity gives you the opportunity to be excluded from all commercial emails from them. I'm disabling the link "click here" because if you clicked on it you will opt me out:

"If you wish to change your preferences or opt to be excluded from future commercial emails from Celebrity Cruises, click here or visit: Celebrity.com (http://click.email.celebritycruises.com/?qs=f9804205e29474e324b215078fcd93f337d4c5c7e97ff0 7324f8bcaa458d01e9957949b2669a62dd)

©2011 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships' registry: Malta and Ecuador.

We hope you enjoyed this email from:
Celebrity Cruises Inc.
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
www.celebritycruises.com"[/quote (http://www.celebritycruises.com"[/quote)


I've hit an all time low ... I'm quoting myself. I have posted here how easy it is to get your name off. I delete literally 100's of emails each day because I have a special email addy set up just for ads like this, newsletters, etc. I rarely have time to read them all but I like to get them.

If you don't, opt out. This is not personal; it's called mass marketing advertising or something like that. The second email to S7S has nothing to do with the first; they come in all the time. That is, of course, a marketing email and not related to the first.

She is on Celebrity's email list because she's a Captain's Club member.
So opt out and it's over.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

We can be removed from email lists if we want. Anyone who has cruised Celebrity becomes an automatic member of the Captains Club and will receive emails from time to time depending on their preferences.

On their website they afford the opportunity to check off what you would like to receive and what you would prefer not to.

Sorry to disagree with you Heather but you are NOT automatically a Member Celebrity just like Royal Caribbean's Crown and Anchor requires you to Sign up your self after your first cruise with their Cruise Line. i know i did it myself last September. I also believe Azamara also requires that you sign up after your first cruise. All other cruise lines automatically make you part of the Past Passenger Group. I have seen several that are not signed up for either Celebrity or RCCL and when asked they either claim they did not want to bother to do that or they never got around to doing it. Unsure why the RCCL Corp requires that you have to make your own effort to sign up. I will say that I received several emails right after I got home from our Solstice cruise reminding me to sign up for Captain's Club and actually continued to get them for about 60 days after I had signed up right after we got home. I was only guessing the right hand did not know what the left was doing and the emails were set to automatically go out.

[Amuse Bouche]

Given the random sampling of people that have received the emails from X, NCL, etc., I wonder if any of the Concordia passengers, crew, or loved ones of those who are deceased or missing received them. Now, those are the folks who have a valid reason to be upset.

I haven't read HAL's facebook page so I don't know what it says. But, I'm sure the lawyers, marketing dept., and many others at Carnival Corp. are spending countless hours deciding how to word their (and Costa's) response to this mess. Damage contol is never an easy task and given the enormous impact this has had, and will continue to have, I know they're weighing each syllable of every word. I wouldn't want to be in their shoes.

It's quoted on post #100 of this thread.

I'd also like to show you what HAL posted on Facebook two days before their post in regards to their safety.
Note the date. They posted this gracious sentiment the morning after.
Holland America Line (http://www.facebook.com/HALCruises)


Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the grounding of the Costa Concordia and especially the loved ones of those who lost their lives. They will remain in our thoughts and prayers in the wake of this tragic event. We wish to recognize and thank the Italian Coast Guard and everyone in Italy who has provided such extraordinary assistance.

Share (http://www.facebook.com/ajax/sharer/?s=22&appid=25554907596&p%5B0%5D=42926793405&p%5B1%5D=10150487904408406) · January 14 at 8:55am (http://www.facebook.com/HALCruises/posts/10150487904408406)

This is the second Facebook post again.

Holland America Line (http://www.facebook.com/HALCruises)


We would like to take this opportunity to remind you that safety is our number one priority and we have an excellent record of safe operation throughout our company’s history. To ensure a safe environment for our guests and crew and maintain our excellent safety record, all officers and crew undergo comprehensive regular training which meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements. Every ship under...goes periodic inspections as mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard and other regulatory authorities and international law to verify safety processes and procedures. In addition, the classification society conducts annual inspections of the ship and our safety processes.

International maritime law requires that we conduct a mandatory lifeboat drill for all passengers conducted within 24 hours of departure. In many instances, we conduct the drill prior to sailing.


Share (http://www.facebook.com/ajax/sharer/?s=22&appid=25554907596&p%5B0%5D=42926793405&p%5B1%5D=10150497317703406) · January 18 at 5:20pm

I think HAL is a class act and has responded graciously.

By the way, for all of you who won't go near facebook, you don't have to participate in the social networking to benefit from it. Nearly every business and product has a facebook page and it's a great way to find deals, specials, new products and Savings!

[startwin]

Now we're on page 8 of this discussion about emails. I do hope people realise they can unsubscribe, or not even read an email, delete it, ignore it or block the sender. Whatever. It seems such a colossal waste of time to be discussing and arguing about it to such a degree. :(

[madelinerose]

Now we're on page 8 of this discussion about emails. I do hope people realise they can unsubscribe, or not even read an email, delete it, ignore it or block the sender.

Amen, period, done. I get emails every day from someone I don't want emails from. I delete it, unsubscribe and block them. Takes 2 seconds, then it's a non-issue. Couldn't be easier. ;)

Oh, and to answer the question...I have absolutely no reaction to getting an email from any cruiseline. It's marketing and, in this instance, public relations, pure and simple.....nothing more.

[ger_77]

We received the same letter today as the OP refers to. We've never sailed with Celebrity, but when reading it, I realized they simply wanted us to know that they were a safe, trustworthy cruise line that was available if we desired to cruise with them. I wasn't offended by it any more than I would have been from any other promotional emails.

Smooth Sailing! :) :) :)

[iancal]

If people WANT to become offended or insulted with something, they will find an excuse. That is just their outlook on life.

It is almost like the guy who wins a brand new BMW and complains when it is delivered that the gas tank is only half full or the front tire is a little scuffed.

[jcrandle]

Hello localady,

I received an email from NCL this morning that was reassuring about the staff and safety on their ships. They touched on muster drills,which have always been on deck, and safety videos available while on board..I was comforted by Kevin Sheehan's words.

In reply to your comment about muster drills on HAL, I too am interested in seeing how our muster drill goes on the Zuiderdam in March. Last March on the Eurodam we noticed that our muster leader did not take any kind of roll call at all. We have cruised twice a year for the past 4 years and note that some of the lines do not require that you bring you life jacket with you and that many of the musters were held indoors and not near your muster station. As recall the Euroda was on deck.

Personally, I feel cruising will be safer than ever.:)

Ann

Note that where the muster drill is held IS YOUR MUSTER STATION. While HAL in the past usually had muster stations on the promenade deck, many cruise lines now designate muster stations inside in public areas. In the event that abandon ship was declared, you would be directed from your muster station to your lifeboat.

[DizzyDallasDi]

Now we're on page 8 of this discussion about emails. I do hope people realise they can unsubscribe, or not even read an email, delete it, ignore it or block the sender. Whatever. It seems such a colossal waste of time to be discussing and arguing about it to such a degree. :(

Seriously, this entire thread is mind boggling. I continue to receive emails from a Honda dealership and I sold that car in 2006. I continue to receive emails from a Mercedes Benz dealership and I sold that car in 2009. I could open them and unsubscribe, but I'm too lazy to do that. ;) A single keystroke makes them go away...no fuss no muss.

I've received emails from Seabourn recently but didn't open them (used the single keystroke method)...good lord, do you think they were touting their commitment to safety as well? :eek:

What I'm wondering is why in God's name would you read an entire blast email that you found upsetting?

[sail7seas]

....

[HeatherInFlorida]

Sorry to disagree with you Heather but you are NOT automatically a Member Celebrity just like Royal Caribbean's Crown and Anchor requires you to Sign up your self after your first cruise with their Cruise Line. i know i did it myself last September. I also believe Azamara also requires that you sign up after your first cruise. All other cruise lines automatically make you part of the Past Passenger Group. I have seen several that are not signed up for either Celebrity or RCCL and when asked they either claim they did not want to bother to do that or they never got around to doing it. Unsure why the RCCL Corp requires that you have to make your own effort to sign up. I will say that I received several emails right after I got home from our Solstice cruise reminding me to sign up for Captain's Club and actually continued to get them for about 60 days after I had signed up right after we got home. I was only guessing the right hand did not know what the left was doing and the emails were set to automatically go out.

No problem disagreeing ... it's my mistake ... I thought it was automatic. I've never sail RCI but have the C&A cards. I must have applied for them and forgotten. In any case, if at any time a person gave their email address, it would still be on record.

And it's very easy to opt out entirely and never be bothered by an email from Celebrity again.

Seriously, this entire thread is mind boggling. I continue to receive emails from a Honda dealership and I sold that car in 2006. I continue to receive emails from a Mercedes Benz dealership and I sold that car in 2009. I could open them and unsubscribe, but I'm too lazy to do that. ;) A single keystroke makes them go away...no fuss no muss.

I've received emails from Seabourn recently but didn't open them (used the single keystroke method)...good lord, do you think they were touting their commitment to safety as well? :eek:

What I'm wondering is why in God's name would you read an entire blast email that you found upsetting?

Me, too!!! I am constantly getting not only emails from Honda about a car long since returned (it was a lease), but snail mail as well! And we've had 2 Hondas since then! I don't feel targeted by Honda knowing it's just a paperwork mixup. As you say ... delete delete. Easy as pie:).

[cruisin'girl]

I've gotten mailed brochures this week from Princess and Celebrity, but no emails. The brochures were deals on cruises, not safety related. We've never sailed Princess, but sailed on Celebrity several years ago. We get a lot of mail from both of them, so I must be on their lists.

I think we'll all be seeing a lot of offers and contacts from many cruiselines in the next weeks and months. I'm sure they just take their lists and send out hundreds or thousands at a time, same with emails.

[sail7seas]

What I started to post above is "X" also visited my snail mail box today. Spmething about LuXury Celebrations.
They must really want us to buy a cruise from them. :D
Agressive marketing going on from them this week.

[cruisin'girl]

What I started to post above is "X" also visited my snail mail box today. Spmething about LuXury Celebrations.
They must really want us to buy a cruise from them. :D
Agressive marketing going on from them this week.


LOL. They want anybody and everybody to buy a cruise from them. They are targeting hundreds and thousands, not specific people. Marketing is all a numbers game.

I think all cruiselines are aware that there will be a decrease in new bookings the next few months or longer and are being very pro-active. I'm seeing a lot of cruise ads on various non-cruise or non-travel related websites I visit. I don't blame them. There's bound to be a reaction by potential first time cruisers and even experienced cruisers, especially seniors who have a legitimate worry about being physically able to evacuate if necessary. I'm old enough to think about it myself and if I was disabled I would be very concerned and might switch to a land resort vacation.

[Amuse Bouche]

Seriously, this entire thread is mind boggling. I continue to receive emails from a Honda dealership and I sold that car in 2006. I continue to receive emails from a Mercedes Benz dealership and I sold that car in 2009. I could open them and unsubscribe, but I'm too lazy to do that. ;) A single keystroke makes them go away...no fuss no muss.

I've received emails from Seabourn recently but didn't open them (used the single keystroke method)...good lord, do you think they were touting their commitment to safety as well? :eek:

What I'm wondering is why in God's name would you read an entire blast email that you found upsetting?

Just my humble opinion...This is something to continue talking about. I've been on a lot of message boards for a lot of different topics, and cruisecritic is the most lively I've seen.

There's also that having an email in your personal email box that is obviously a response from a disaster that everyone here knows could have involved them is traumatic to the psyche. No one wants to say that, but I'm sure we will all make small adjustments, maybe look at the ships position screen on the TV a little more, size up the Captain when we see him...all survival techniques. We are all rational, but hey...we all could have been there.

[world~citizen]

...We are all rational, but hey...we all could have been there.

I would say we are all capable of being rational. Sometimes we are.:)

We could all have been there - it could have been any one of us. That is exactly the point. I suspect many aspects of ship safety will come under scrutiny, aside from the performance of the captain. That is important.

This tragedy has come as a shock to a lot of people. We anthropomorphize our favourite cruise line and exalt ship captains. We are about to find out cruise companies are the same as any other business enterprise where it is pretty much all about the shareholders dividends, and ship captains are only human and perform like the rest of us,- each according to their ability and character.

I really, really hope some good comes out of all this. Too late for some, but maybe in time for a lot more.

[HeatherInFlorida]

................. No one wants to say that, but I'm sure we will all make small adjustments, maybe look at the ships position screen on the TV a little more, size up the Captain when we see him...all survival techniques. We are all rational, but hey...we all could have been there.

And even though it is so sad this tragic incident occured, it is from this perspective that positive things can happen. The truth is a lot of people hoop onboard a cruise ship, particularly the larger ones, and bask in the glow of never even seeing the sea! They see this is as a good thing (I don't).

But with that comes a complacency and unfortunately a lack of knowledge about the fact that it is still a small object on a very vast ocean.

So for some, hopefully, this will be a wake-up call and all the better if people pay more attention.

...................
This tragedy has come as a shock to a lot of people. We anthropomorphize our favourite cruise line and exalt ship captains. We are about to find out cruise companies are the same as any other business enterprise where it is pretty much all about the shareholders dividends, and ship captains are only human and perform like the rest of us,- each according to their ability and character.

I really, really hope some good comes out of all this. Too late for some, but maybe in time for a lot more.

A cruise company is not our friend. It's a business. Of course we all have favorites, but they don't. They want people on their ships ... who that is doesn't matter. Bruce Muzz has pointed this out so often and many of us have balked, but it's the truth. They will make you feel all warm and fuzzy with perks for past passengers and cute little newsletters to make it seem personal, but it really isn't. It's all about the bottom line and filling their ships.

[GeriatricNurse]

What I started to post above is "X" also visited my snail mail box today. Spmething about LuXury Celebrations.
They must really want us to buy a cruise from them. :D
Agressive marketing going on from them this week.



I've cruised twice with X and have never received any e-mails or snail mail from them! ;)

[peaches from georgia]

I've cruised twice with X and have never received any e-mails or snail mail from them! ;)
Talk about a fat curveball right over the plate just waiting to be hit out of the park. :eek:

[vbmom87]

Hello localady,

I received an email from NCL this morning that was reassuring about the staff and safety on their ships. They touched on muster drills,which have always been on deck, and safety videos available while on board..I was comforted by Kevin Sheehan's words.
Ann

ON our one NCL cruise, the muster drill was in the dining room, which I did not think was wise. On my two HAL cruises, muster was at the lifeboat station....sure seemed to make more sense to me.

Anyway, yes, I agree with those who stated it is easy to opt out of email lists. Just do it, if this bothers you. Quite simple actually. I have far more going on in my life than to be worried about the intentions of cruise line emails.

[HeatherInFlorida]

I don't know what's the matter with me!!! Here I sit saying 'delete delete delete' emails that don't interest us or have no value and I completely forgot I have the ability to "unsubscribe" to a thread that has long since served any purpose ... all if it ever did.:)

[Friend100]

I just received an email letter from Stein Kruse.

[ariawoman]

I just received an email letter from Stein Kruse.

I'm gonna go pop some popcorn because this thread is about to take a turn LOL.

To add to the discussion - I got the HAL email as well. I didn't get anything from X yet, so I guess by this logic, I'll have to be mad at HAL.

This is probably the 1st posting of sails that i'm not 100% in agreement with, but it's bound to happen.

I understand where she's coming from, but unforunately I don't think that it's just X that's trying to solicit customers. We also don't know the timing of snail mails -- they might have been planned and printed and ready to go weeks before we receive them.

I get snail mail REGULARLY from Seabourn, HAL, Celebrity -- all 3 on which i've sailed. I get emails from HAL most often, for some reason, with Seabourn a close 2nd.

I think that in the end all cruise lines are there to make money, that's their business and we have to respect that. Whether or not we find them to be acting in poor taste - well, then we can choose who we sail on from this point forward.

[RevNeal]

Here is the text of the HAL letter that just arrived today:

Dear Mariner:

I have heard from many of you over the past weeks expressing your sorrow over the grounding of the Costa Concordia earlier this month, and raising understandable questions in the wake of that incident. I write to address your concerns.

Like you, all of us at Holland America Line have been stunned and deeply saddened by this devastating incident. We are keeping in our thoughts and prayers all those who were onboard as well as those who lost loved ones.

As I have watched the news unfold, I naturally have reflected on our commitment each and every day to ensure the safety of our guests and crew. You entrust us with your safety. We take that responsibility very seriously. Holland America Line has nearly 140 years of operating at the highest levels of safety. We are building the record our successors will have to meet 140 years from today.

As a guest, you experience our commitment during the mandatory passenger emergency drills that take place prior to sailing. The drills are a public example of our daily focus on safety and security. Every aspect of our planning and operations takes place with safety in mind.

I am joined by a solid team of professionals who understand the critical importance of safety, many of whom have long careers at sea, whether on cruise ships, commercial ships or serving in the Coast Guard, Navy or other professional maritime organizations. Among them is Captain Cees Deelstra, our Vice President, Nautical Operations, who started his forty-year career with Holland America Line as a cadet, ultimately attaining his own command as a master before accepting a position shoreside to oversee the safe operations of our fleet. Similarly, Captain William Morani, our Vice President, Safety, Environment and Health, served for twenty-five years in the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Program before joining Holland America Line. All of our captains have spent decades at sea and all have a solid record of safely sailing passenger vessels. Most have spent their career with Holland America Line.

All shipboard personnel undergo comprehensive regular safety training. This includes live onboard training, computer based courses and state of the art simulator training. We hold regular shoreside conferences for senior officers to discuss safety and other critical issues, the last as recent as October 2011. All crew participate in regular drills to ensure they know what their role is in the event of an emergency. We also drill our shoreside response team so that we are always prepared, including a simulated mass rescue exercise with the U.S. Coast Guard in Alaska.

You also need not rely solely on my word for all of this. Like every passenger vessel, each ship in our fleet undergoes mandatory inspections by Lloyds, our classification society, as well as by the Netherlands (our flag state), by the U.S. Coast Guard, and by other regulatory authorities based in the countries we visit.

Incidents such as the recent tragedy are a rare occurrence. I and the other sixteen thousand women and men of Holland America Line are committed to the safe passage of our ships, so that you can focus on the reason you came onboard. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Stein Kruse
President & CEO

[Oceanwench]

I got the email from HAL today too.

Well, I guess that now gives these letters the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval now, doesn't it? ;)

I just received snail mail from Oceania and Seabourn, neither of which I have sailed [but would love to!].

[whogo]

I just received an email letter from Stein Kruse.

__________________________________________________ _______

To quote the OP:
"...What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?"

[Friend100]

__________________________________________________ _______

To quote the OP:
"...What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?"


Sorry, I rarely pay much attention to read the whole thing. Don't have time.
Keep going. http://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/popcorn.gif

[startwin]

I got mine from HAL today. I can add it to my collection (NOT!) Let's do another 8 pages of analyzing the motives. All in all, good PR for all the cruise lines to write to every customer, potential customer, anyone who has even a remote link to them.... to assure them that their ships are safe. Now let's get on with life.:D

[cruise kitty]

To add to the discussion - I got the HAL email as well. I didn't get anything from X yet, so I guess by this logic, I'll have to be mad at HAL.



Same here, I'm a loyal X cruiser, but I've cruised with HAL too, & not a week goes by that I don't receive some sort of flyer/letter offer from HAL... Now, while it might be a bit fun to view it (& the email) as some nefarious plot to indoctrinate me into worshiping HAL & forsaking all other cruise lines, it's probably just run of the mill marketing.

Guess I'll have to get my dose of subterfuge from old X-files reruns:D

[candbgirl]

She is on Celebrity's email list because she's a Captain's Club member.
So opt out and it's over.
__________________

But then she wouldn't have anything to whine about. I wonder what Celebrity did to make her so mad.

Anyway I didn't find this offensive at all. It is mass marketing. I do think that the Carnival Corp has tied the hands of their fleets until some of this dies down. No reason the RCCL and NCL and other lines shouldn't sen something to their past, present and future clients.

[candbgirl]

So I guess this thread is dead since HAL has sent an email. lol

[woody73]

Anyone else here get the letter?

What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?
Which letter? I've received a few.

Woody

[RevNeal]

I got the email from HAL today too.

Well, I guess that now gives these letters the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval now, doesn't it? ;).

As I wrote earlier, I didn't then, and don't now, understand what the big broo ha ha was about. The letter from HAL seems fine, just as the letter from Celebrity seemed fine. No harm done.

[sandthrush]

DH and I sailed "X' about 6 times total but have not sailed them in many years. We only sail HAL.

I just checked my e-mail and found the President of Celebrity chose to send me an e-mail, addressed to my first name (have we met? are we friends? :confused:) and the message of his multiple paragraph letter was how safe "X" ships are and we should sail.

Is he implying the Carnival Family of ships are all unsafe?
He thinks this is good marketing?
The letter was way too long to begin with and is such a turn off to me that were we considering sailing "X", which we are not, I would have second thoughts.

Anyone else here get the letter?
What is your opinion of them seeming to be taking advantage of such a horrid tragedy to market their brand?

Didn't get one from "X" but both DH and myself got one today from HAL. Now who didn't see this coming?:rolleyes:

[Oceanwench]

As I wrote earlier, I didn't then, and don't now, understand what the big broo ha ha was about. The letter from HAL seems fine, just as the letter from Celebrity seemed fine. No harm done.

I have to agree, RevNeal, I don't know what the big brouhaha was about either. But apparently it started when Celebrity sent the *offensive* email, and it's probably over, now that HAL has done the same. :rolleyes:

[michmike]

I'd be glad to post my list of favorite authors if there is any interest. Seems that curling up w/ a good book would be more productive than beating this thing to death for 9 pages.. *S*

as always, your mileage may vary

[whogo]

I have to agree, RevNeal, I don't know what the big brouhaha was about either. But apparently it started when Celebrity sent the *offensive* email, and it's probably over, now that HAL has done the same. :rolleyes:This is the HAL forum. Anything HAL does is OK. It's those other lines that are tasteless, tacky, offensive and overly personal.

Stein Kruse addressed his e-mail to "Dear Mariner" while Celebrity had the effrontery to use a first name. By waiting a couple of extra days, Holland America's President and CEO did not take advantage of a horrid tragedy to market his brand like Celebrity did. Celebrity's e-mail really was too long, 670 words versus a very proper 540 words by Holland America. Holland America is vindicated!

[jcrandle]

What I started to post above is "X" also visited my snail mail box today. Spmething about LuXury Celebrations.
They must really want us to buy a cruise from them. :D
Agressive marketing going on from them this week.


You could consider yourself special that you were invited on an X cruise. Or, you could chill out and remove yourself from their mailing list. You can decide what action is most appropriate.

[DizzyDallasDi]

You could consider yourself special that you were invited on an X cruise. Or, you could chill out and remove yourself from their mailing list. You can decide what action is most appropriate.

Hello....we have a winner. :D

[Amuse Bouche]

As I wrote earlier, I didn't then, and don't now, understand what the big broo ha ha was about. The letter from HAL seems fine, just as the letter from Celebrity seemed fine. No harm done.

I agree. Thank you for sharing a calm, rational opinion RevNeal!

Here's food for thought...I wonder how many would criticize that the cruise lines were hiding in guilty shame because they DIDN'T send anything out.

:confused:

[jannandjohn]

I still find it distasteful but respect others are reading it differently than I am.
I have no desire for HAL to send any sort of similar letter

well, sail7seas, so what do you say now??
===============================
Dear Mariner:
BLAH BLAH BLAH..
http://media.hollandamerica.com/2012_email/01Jan12/012512_survey/images/sig_sm.jpg

Stein Kruse
President & CEO

[kazu]

well, sail7seas, so what do you say now??
===============================
Dear Mariner:
BLAH BLAH BLAH..
http://media.hollandamerica.com/2012_email/01Jan12/012512_survey/images/sig_sm.jpg

Stein Kruse
President & CEO

she already did in her quote that you posted

[COLLEYBERRY]

I can appreciate the need for cruise line companies to address this horrible situation and offer reassurance to their market...but quite frankly ,I assumed that a vessel worth millions , transporting thousands,.. safety and staff expertise ,was a given.

What I haven't seen addressed, is if there is any psychological vetting of those who we entrust with our safety. It appears to me,the personality of Concordia's Captain ,was her passengers greatest safety threat.

His cavalier attitude, did not suddenly manifest itself one evening off the Tuscon coast.

[josie724]

His cavalier attitude did not suddenly manifest itself one evening off the Tuscon coast.


ARIZONA HAS A COAST??????:eek: ;) ;)

[michmike]

ARIZONA HAS A COAST??????:eek: ;) ;)

I think it was George Strait who sang of having "ocean front property in Arizona" for sale *S*

[josie724]

I think it was George Strait who sang of having "ocean front property in Arizona" for sale *S*


:D :D :D

" from my front porch you can see the sea "

[serendipity1499]

ARIZONA HAS A COAST??????:eek: ;) ;)

I'm not sure if you are serious or being funny..:confused::confused: Just in case you are serious are you aware that the Island of Giglio is on the Tuscan Coast..Therefore the poster was correct in her post about the ship running aground off the Tuscan coast..

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special%3ASearch&search=tuscan+coast

But, if your post was meant to be funny then I must apologize for being dense!:o

cheers..

[DizzyDallasDi]

His cavalier attitude, did not suddenly manifest itself one evening off the Tuscon coast.

ARIZONA HAS A COAST??????:eek: ;) ;)

That city in Arizona is spelled Tucson, not Tuscon. We all know what Colleyberry meant. :)

[COLLEYBERRY]

That city in Arizona is spelled Tucson, not Tuscon. We all know what Colleyberry meant. :)

Thanks Betty and Diane. ...I guess spelling counts huh?:D One of the reasons Colleyberry doesn't post much anymore.:)

[Cqis]

I received e-mail from HAL . It was just a reassuring statement about their safety concerns.

[chrispb]

What I started to post above is "X" also visited my snail mail box today. Spmething about LuXury Celebrations.
They must really want us to buy a cruise from them. :D
Agressive marketing going on from them this week.


It's probably because they know that their Smoking Policy would suit you far better than HAL's;)

[madelinerose]

A cruise company is not our friend. It's a business. They want people on their ships ... who that is doesn't matter. It's all about the bottom line and filling their ships.

B i n g o !!! ;)

[josie724]

That city in Arizona is spelled Tucson, not Tuscon. We all know what Colleyberry meant. :)


Oh lighten up....just having a bit of fun.....my goodness. You are correct, feel better?

[KTBLUE]

Plain and simple...it's marketing.

[COLLEYBERRY]

Oh lighten up....just having a bit of fun.....my goodness. You are correct, feel better?

I guess your spelling oversight wasn't quite as much fun as mine....Fun at another's expense ...hmmm what do they call that again...oh yeah... unkind.
Ahh ...now I feel better.

[sail7seas]

It's probably because they know that their Smoking Policy would suit you far better than HAL's;)


That must be it. :D

Shame there isn't much else there we liked our last "X" cruise.
Of course, our last cruise, smoking rules were very different.
There's nothing we want at Celebrity and their letter didn' t help in any way....... I found it distasteful going to someone who has shown no interest in them in a great many years.

IMO.......

[josie724]

I guess your spelling oversight wasn't quite as much fun as mine....Fun at another's expense ...hmmm what do they call that again...oh yeah... unkind.
Ahh ...now I feel better.

Yes, I made a mistake....Oh my, isn't the first time, won't be the last.....I wasn't being unkind....I wasn't being mean....hence the wink.....I thought it was funny....WE ALL MAKE typos, and that's what I took it as....I too made a mistake I read it as TuCson instead of Tuscon. I booboo'd have at it....I can take a joke. I'm not so thin skinned.

Actually I think my mistake is even funnier......talk about egg on my face....I can laugh at myself.

If calling me unkind makes you feel better, so be it.....Just remember I didn't call you ANYTHING.

[hulamoon]

Sail please remember when you keep saying you have no interest in Celebrity that this is a public board. Many of us read your recent question on Celebrity board. so maybe you have no real interest, but I took you at your word you were asking questions you wanted answered. You also have been public about why you like HAL less than you used to. And you have been on Celebrity before.

I could also say HAL used poor taste in sending me a letter, but I don't feel that way. If I took every sales, marketing or safety message sent to me personally I would be seriously compromised and unable to carry on.


Colleyberry has a valid point, I have a real interst in the issue of safety, more so than if the letter was sent out on correct date.

[josie724]

I'm not sure if you are serious or being funny..:confused::confused: Just in case you are serious are you aware that the Island of Giglio is on the Tuscan Coast..Therefore the poster was correct in her post about the ship running aground off the Tuscan coast..

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special%3ASearch&search=tuscan+coast

But, if your post was meant to be funny then I must apologize for being dense!:o

cheers..


Yes I know it's off the TuscAn coast, like I said I read TuscOn as TuCson so I goofed, probably even worse. But I think that's rather funny too.....I was having a blonde moment.

[kazu]

Yes I know it's off the TuscAn coast, like I said I read TuscOn as TuCson so I goofed, probably even worse. But I think that's rather funny too.....I was having a blonde moment.

don't worry about a blonde moment - even redheads and brunettes get them:)

[josie724]

don't worry about a blonde moment - even redheads and brunettes get them:)


Between that and being of a "CERTAIN" age, I'm having more than my share.....:D :D

[COLLEYBERRY]

Yes, I made a mistake....Oh my, isn't the first time, won't be the last.....I wasn't being unkind....I wasn't being mean....hence the wink.....I thought it was funny....WE ALL MAKE typos, and that's what I took it as....I too made a mistake I read it as TuCson instead of Tuscon. I booboo'd have at it....I can take a joke. I'm not so thin skinned.

Actually I think my mistake is even funnier......talk about egg on my face....I can laugh at myself.

If calling me unkind makes you feel better, so be it.....Just remember I didn't call you ANYTHING.


Hi Josie ..well I guess we've gotten off on the wrong foot...let's start over. My name is Colleen and I agree ..there is no greater ability than being able to laugh at one self. I shall try harder in the future ;) I am sure I won't have a long wait.
I am usually more fun than this :)...really.;)

[josie724]

Hi Josie ..well I guess we've gotten off on the wrong foot...let's start over. My name is Colleen and I agree ..there is no greater ability than being able to laugh at one self. I shall try harder in the future ;) I am sure I won't have a long wait.
I am usually more fun than this :)...really.;)


I have two left feet, so I could see how that would happen ....:D No harm done....let's move on....

BTW...my name is Joanne.

[woody73]

There's nothing we want at Celebrity and their letter didn' t help in any way . . .
Many people simply delete such e-mails.

Woody

[JJPacer]

We haven't received the e-mail, although I haven't checked the junk mail. The 20/20 TV show (I think it was 20/20 or Dateline or one of those types of shows) was very negative towards Carnival Cruise Line, I thought, and they showed a picture of a Celebrity ship. but didn't mention it was a Celebrity ship. (at least that's what I recall) So maybe Celebrity is preempting any negative audience reaction to that TV show.

I think it would take a savvy cruiser to know Carnival Corporation is the parent company of Costa, HAL, Princess, etc., and Carnival Cruise Line and Costa are one of of several cruiseline owned by the Corporation. A lot of people would not know that, and they don't realize RCI has various cruise lines under it's Corporation.

So, it's possible it's more of a public relations effort. However, sometimes the public relations efforts don't accomplish what it was intended to accomplish.

[mountainmare]

We have sailed different lines, including Costa (on the Concordia no less). We have received emails from every company. I think they are all just going to any past cruiser list with a blanket statement, nothing more than that.

[Tropic]

After all this commenting about Celebrity, I received almost an identical letter from HAL two days ago I think.

[Wannaknow]

Many people simply delete such e-mails.

Woody

I agree wholeheartedly and apparently most people who commented here deleted it or thought nothing of it - however certain people have too much time on their hands and enjoy making a mountain range out of a pinhead.:rolleyes: