Suite Amenities Package

[Forestwalkers]

Has anyone had the suite amenities package and was it worth the money? We have been quoted $549 for two people for a two week cruise. It is the special debarkation procedures that make me curious:rolleyes:

[peaches from georgia]

Suite Amenities Package
(all other suites, excluding delexe varandah suites) includes:
Complimentary Laundry and Pressing
Holland America Line bathrobe with monogram of choice
In-Stateroom High Tea or Daily Canapes
DVD Selection
Confirmed Dining Room Seating
Fresh Flowers
Special VIP Debarkation Procedures
Special VIP Debarkation Lounge
Pillows A La Carte Menu
Initial Stateroom Beverage Setup
Explorations Café Coffee Card
Pinnacle Grill Dinner

Well, this is a new one on me. Wonder how long this package has been sold. In other words, many of the amenities of booking and paying for an S suite are now being sold to all other suite categories for what seems to be a much lesser amount than what the S pax are paying. The price of the package is based on the length of cruise evidently so a 7 dayer would be less than what OP is quoting for 2 wks. Granted it does not include the Neptune Lounge. I'm wondering what the VIP Debarkation Lounge is.

[Sundagger]

It sounds like HAL is doing something similar to Celebrity's Concierge Class.

[peaches from georgia]

There is also a Suite ELITE package for Deluxe Verandah Suite pax to purchase. I wonder how they are going to guarantee everyone their Dining Table of choice?

Suite Elite Package (for deluxe verandah suites only) includes:
Access to Hydro Pool and Thermal Suite
Initial Suite Beverage Setup
Explorations Café Coffee Card
Pinnacle Grill Dinner
Culinary Art Center Class
Premium Wine Tasting
Internet Card for 100 minutes
Confirmed Dining Room Table of choice
Daily Turndown Truffles
Deluxe Flower Arrangement

[Two if by Sea]

There is also a Suite ELITE package for Deluxe Verandah Suite pax to purchase. I wonder how they are going to guarantee everyone their Dining Table of choice?

Suite Elite Package (for deluxe verandah suites only) includes:
Access to Hydro Pool and Thermal Suite
Initial Suite Beverage Setup
Explorations Café Coffee Card
Pinnacle Grill Dinner
Culinary Art Center Class
Premium Wine Tasting
Internet Card for 100 minutes
Confirmed Dining Room Table of choice
Daily Turndown Truffles
Deluxe Flower Arrangement

I am confused. So now there are two new packages. Some things in the "Suite Amenities" package (for non-deluxe folks) are already INCLUDED in my S-suite, right? But others are not, and so they are repeated above in the "Suite Elite" package.

But weren't some of the things in the above "Suite Elite" package already included in my S-suite? Like flowers, and daily turndown truffles?

What are the rest of them? Specifically, and point by point:

What's an "initial beverage setup"?

What exactly IS a "confirmed dining room table of choice" if you're on the AYW plan?

Does it GUARANTEE space in the Culinary Class that you otherwise have to take your chances on getting? Or can you pretty much have guaranteed access if you sign up with the concierge the day of boarding?

Why would you need a coffee card if you already get free unlimited coffee in the Neptune Lounge?

Does my bathrobe already come with a monogram, since I'm in an S-suite and that particular amenity was listed only in the non-deluxe "Suite Amenities" program? And if so, do I get to keep it, or do they rip out the monogram at the end of my stay and embroider a new one for the next guest??

[Drew358]

Where did you find this info? I searched HAL's website, but couldn't find anything.

[Drew358]

Nevermind, I found it.

[Sage]

I'm really confused. I haven't seen any of these things. Where are these ammenties packages being mentioned?

[Two if by Sea]

If you go to the Printable Gift Form, it's there.

I'm still very confused.

[Drew358]

It would seem that getting an SS and buying this package would be a much better deal then getting a deluxe suite, depending on what your opinion is of the Neptune Lounge. In fact, you get more with the initial bar setup, a bathrobe and a dinner at the Pinnacle. I'm not sure if the Deluxe Suites have a pillow menu or if the pillows are already in the room.

Although the price difference on our 17 day cruise coming up is about $1000 per person more for a DS then a SS, it still looks to be about a difference in price of $1500 for just the use of the lounge. That's kind of annoying. There are other cruises out there where the price difference is significantly more then that.

[peaches from georgia]

I am confused. So now there are two new packages. Some things in the "Suite Amenities" package (for non-deluxe folks) are already INCLUDED in my S-suite, right? But others are not, and so they are repeated above in the "Suite Elite" package. Right

But weren't some of the things in the above "Suite Elite" package already included in my S-suite? Like flowers, and daily turndown truffles? Now they will be 'Deluxe' Flowers and I guess a truffle versus a chocolate mint. LOL.

What are the rest of them? Specifically, and point by point:

What's an "initial beverage setup"? Have no idea

What exactly IS a "confirmed dining room table of choice" if you're on the AYW plan? I guess you will be able to have an exact table reserved for you at the time of your choice? Interesting how that will work. They'll hold the table for you all evening??

Does it GUARANTEE space in the Culinary Class that you otherwise have to take your chances on getting? Or can you pretty much have guaranteed access if you sign up with the concierge the day of boarding? I guess you're guaranteed.

Why would you need a coffee card if you already get free unlimited coffee in the Neptune Lounge? The Explorations Cafe coffee menu is like Starbucks. Neptune does not have the frou-frou coffee drinks.

Does my bathrobe already come with a monogram, since I'm in an S-suite and that particular amenity was listed only in the non-deluxe "Suite Amenities" program? And if so, do I get to keep it, or do they rip out the monogram at the end of my stay and embroider a new one for the next guest??S suite bathrooms are not currently monogrammed and you do not keep them. Have no idea why the non-S package includes a bathrobe and the S package does not.

[kryos]

Well, this is a new one on me. Wonder how long this package has been sold. In other words, many of the amenities of booking and paying for an S suite are now being sold to all other suite categories for what seems to be a much lesser amount than what the S pax are paying. The price of the package is based on the length of cruise evidently so a 7 dayer would be less than what OP is quoting for 2 wks. Granted it does not include the Neptune Lounge. I'm wondering what the VIP Debarkation Lounge is.
This just doesn't sound like HAL. Sure this isn't a "suite ammenities package" for another cruise line?

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

Although the price difference on our 17 day cruise coming up is about $1000 per person more for a DS then a SS, it still looks to be about a difference in price of $1500 for just the use of the lounge. That's kind of annoying. There are other cruises out there where the price difference is significantly more then that.Don't under-estimate though the value of Neptune Lounge privileges. I always say, it's not the use of the lounge, per se, that is valuable ... rather it's the use of the concierge to do your bidding for you. Granted some people (like myself) wouldn't have much use for him, but those traveling together with friends and family could really make use of that concierge for stuff like setting up suite parties, making sure dining arrangements are properly set up, etc.

That concierge privilege alone is worth the extra money, in my opinion ... and people using this "Deluxe Suite Package" don't get that ... not unless they are in a qualifying suite.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

It would seem that getting an SS and buying this package would be a much better deal then getting a deluxe suite, depending on what your opinion is of the Neptune Lounge. In fact, you get more with the initial bar setup, a bathrobe and a dinner at the Pinnacle. I'm not sure if the Deluxe Suites have a pillow menu or if the pillows are already in the room.

Sounds to me like HAL shot themselves in the foot with this. Lots of people who previously booked the luxury suites are now gonna take a look at this package and figure it is a better deal to just book another, lower category of suite, and then get this package.

If HAL has any brains, they'd better give everyone in a luxury suite all of these same ammenities and then some.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[Scrumpy]

I am really confused by this. Is the ultimate aim, perhaps, to gradually REMOVE some of the current suite amenities? I don't have a problem with being able to purchase extra amenities if you aren't in a suite, but it seems strange that some of the things you pay extra for would already be included if you had a suite. I'm not getting it. :confused:

[Scrumpy]

I guess the main thing I'm seeing that basically duplicates current amenities is a deluxe flower arrangement and a truffle; otherwise, many of these things could be purchased ala carte or arranged through NL if you were in a suite. Maybe there is a niche for this, but I'm not seeing it. I would like staying in an SS or VA and being able to have some of what's available, but I guess it would really depend on the price because not everything on the list would be of interest to us. So, am I correct that a VA or an SS would be eligible - or would it only apply to SS, and therefore only to Vistas?

It'll be interesting to hear from people who have used these packages what they thought of them. When did these become available? Anyone heard of them or used them on a recent HAL cruise???

Wow, learn something new every day.
Thanks ya'll and anyone who has more insight!
Susan

[BarbCT605]

This suite package concerns me a bit.

How do this work out logistically, I wonder. Will the Neptune Lounge concierges take care of the extra requests/services?

I purchased a deluxe verandah suite on the Noordam for 2 reasons:

1. Suite perks
2. Larger cabin
3. Suite perks (I do love my perks:) )

I am very willing to spend more money on a cruise for these reasons.

But, I have to wonder, does having the suite package for sale now diminish my on-board experience?

My personal feeling is that I will not be so willing to spend the big bucks on the next cruise.

[mick70]

Where does one find the costs of these packages?

[Sage]

I wonder too about the initial bar set up as to what this would include. I wish that they would include free sodas and bottled water to the full suites and PS.

[kryos]

There is also a Suite ELITE package for Deluxe Verandah Suite pax to purchase. I wonder how they are going to guarantee everyone their Dining Table of choice?

By not confirming anyone else until all the deluxe verandah suites have been sold and dining arrangements for them and anyone else who purchased the suite ammenities upgrade have been set and confirmed. No one other than those passengers (and perhaps people traveling with large groups) will have their dining arrangements confirmed until they are onboard. If there is no room left in your preferred time for dining, you'll just get corraled into As You Wish ... whether you "wish" it or not. My guess is just about everyone not in some sort of suite will be dining in As You Wish.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

This suite package concerns me a bit.

How do this work out logistically, I wonder. Will the Neptune Lounge concierges take care of the extra requests/services?

I don't think the Neptune Lounge is one of the "perks" offered in this suite ammenities package. Either you have a qualifying suite or you don't get to use the Neptune Lounge. So, the offering of these packages doesn't affect the workloads of the Neptune Lounge concierges. They still have the same number of suites to service. These packages don't increase that at all.

Sounds to me like HAL is gonna keep access to the Neptune Lounge available only to the folks in the deluxe suites. They're not gonna "sell" it to others.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[Scrumpy]

By not confirming anyone else until all the deluxe verandah suites have been sold and dining arrangements for them and anyone else who purchased the suite ammenities upgrade have been set and confirmed. No one other than those passengers (and perhaps people traveling with large groups) will have their dining arrangements confirmed until they are onboard. If there is no room left in your preferred time for dining, you'll just get corraled into As You Wish ... whether you "wish" it or not. My guess is just about everyone not in some sort of suite will be dining in As You Wish.

Blue skies ...

--rita

Again, all roads lead to the dining room. Bummer! When we had a suite in September, I do not think these programs were available. I really do wonder now if the only way to get our dining preference is going to be to get suites or buy these packages - it kinda irritates me, honestly. Why shouldn't someone who books a cabin early, regardless of category, not get their dining preference? And, I say this as someone who books relatively LATE and might not always get mine!!! I swear I'm starting to believe in conspiracies. Introduce AYW, then make $$$ because folks will pay extra to get their preference...

I missed HAL and was looking forward to another cruise. Now, I am a little worried.

Susan

[peaches from georgia]

I agree, Rita. But I really had meant how are they going to guarantee the exact table of choice if a lot of the S pax buy this Elite Amenities package.

The monogrammed bathrobe and the VIP Debarkation Lounge for non-S pax and not for S pax really do have me stumped.

[advocado]

This suite package concerns me a bit.

How do this work out logistically, I wonder. Will the Neptune Lounge concierges take care of the extra requests/services?

I purchased a deluxe verandah suite on the Noordam for 2 reasons:

1. Suite perks
2. Larger cabin
3. Suite perks (I do love my perks:) )

I am very willing to spend more money on a cruise for these reasons.

But, I have to wonder, does having the suite package for sale now diminish my on-board experience?

My personal feeling is that I will not be so willing to spend the big bucks on the next cruise.

I fundamentally agree, though in a slightly different order of preference. My primary reason for selecting for the deluxe verandah suite when I cruise is the larger cabin and verandah. Cabins of 500 to 600 square feet are wonderful! Next (and only after my first Neptune Lounge experience), I factor in the benefits that come with the Lounge -- especially the concierge, who really know their job and work wonders to get you the preferred table you want or to even make dining recommendations and reservations at ports. The instant availability of the espresso/cappuccino coffee and fruit, juice and rolls in the early morning are a godsend. Third ... the free (and expedited) laundry, cleaning and pressing. We use it every day. We also get the 5:00 p.m. hors d'oeuvers every evening. Nice to wind down with a cocktail and nibbles at day's end. Monogrammed bathrobe, Explorations Cafe card, bar set ups, etc., are OK, but without the larger cabin and Neptune perks, it wouldn't be worth an extra $500 bucks to me.

[Drew358]

This reminds me of Celebrity when they launched their Concierge Class. The people who booked those rooms actually had (and still have) more perks then those who book suites. Their rationale is that people book suites for the room, while those that book CC rooms are booking for the perks. However they market this room as for people who want a taste of a suite, even though the suites don't get all that Concierge Class rooms get.
The problem with this for HAL is that their suites aren't as well laid out as Celebrity's. They way this package is set up is that the those in Superior Suites will get more then those in Deluxe Suites (minus Neptune Lounge). Deluxe Suites can get more perks, but what's the point? I like perks, so that's why I like to get Deluxe Suites, the extra package that is offered is nothing more then a few things bundled together that you can get while onboard. There is no exclusiveness that some people look for when they book a suite, or at least the exclusiveness has been somewhat compromised by offering the same perks in a lesser suite.

[Drew358]

This reminds me of Celebrity when they launched their Concierge Class. The people who booked those rooms actually had (and still have) more perks then those who book suites. Their rationale is that people book suites for the room, while those that book CC rooms are booking for the perks. However they market this room as for people who want a taste of a suite, even though the suites don't get all that Concierge Class rooms get.
The problem with this for HAL is that their suites aren't as well laid out as Celebrity's. They way this package is set up is that the those in Superior Suites will get more then those in Deluxe Suites (minus Neptune Lounge). Deluxe Suites can get more perks, but what's the point? I like perks, so that's why I like to get Deluxe Suites, the extra package that is offered is nothing more then a few things bundled together that you can get while onboard. There is no exclusiveness that some people look for when they book a suite, or at least the exclusiveness has been somewhat compromised by offering the same perks in a lesser suite.

[Forestwalkers]

It looks like this is going to be of benefit to me as I am in a VA, HAL explained that you could be in any Category of cabin and book the Suite Amenities Package. The drinks package is 2 bottles of spirit and 2 of wine from a choice for our 2 week cruise. It is the priority debarkation procedure we really want - we were quoted more that $1200 to upgrade to a SY so remaining in our VA with this package works out better for us - shame about the smaller cabin

[Two if by Sea]

Is a "VIP Debarkation Lounge" something you get BEFORE you disembark, or AFTER?

If BEFORE, then I guess deluxe suite passengers don't need it since we have Neptune.

If AFTER, then I would wonder why we can't get it too, unless we already do.

The one thing I saw on the list for the non-deluxe passengers that could potentially water down the deluxe-suite perks is the "Special VIP Debarkation Procedures". If they offer that to too many people, then deluxe passengers may have to wait longer at the tenders. This is a very minor point, of course. And for all we know, unless someone has heard more, those "special" procedures still take second place to a Gold Card or Black Card or whatever color our special deluxe suite card is.

[gizmo]

The monogrammed bathrobe and the VIP Debarkation Lounge for non-S pax and not for S pax really do have me stumped.

The bathrobes remind me of the Just For Us package. (I don't know if they still have this or what is now included) I had this package a couple of times but it was more than 5 years ago.

At the end of the cruise you received 2 bathrobes to take home. They were monagrammed with the Hal logo. (I have 3 terry cloth ones in my closet still in the original wrapper. :) )

I am stumped also with the VIP Debarkation Lounge.

[Charliesmom]

I think the VIP debarkation lounge is much like what Princess has for Platinum and Elite Captain's Circle Members. They want you out of your rooms so they can be readied for the next set of passengers, so they set up a lounge with coffee and pastries where you can sit and relax until your color is called.

Suite passengers on Princess usually are allowed to stay in their rooms until their color is called, but they generally get a color that is called early. I think suite passengers on HAL also are allowed to stay in their rooms until their color is called. I know that Krazy Kruisers had to wait until after 9:30 to get into the Penthouse Suite on her return trip on the Maasdam last fall because the occupants of the Penthouse didn't leave until then.

I think this whole business is part of the Carnivalization of the entire group. HAL gets to sound more and more like Princess. Princess has "special packages" that people can buy - dinner on your balcony, special champagne breakfasts, etc. It's a bit like buying a cabana for the day at HMC. They make you feel extra special and you shell out more bucks.

What I wonder is will suite passengers still get the bottles of wine from the Captain and Hotel Manager? Or will that now be part of the package that you have to buy?

On Princess, suite passengers get a glass of champagne on embarkation, in their room, not a bottle. When we were on Celebrity in 2004, we got a glass on embarkation as we walked onto the ship and found a bottle of champagne waiting for us in an ice bucket in our mini-suite.

Roberta

[Bluebobway]

i've searched and searched under 'for booked guests' and 'choose gifts' and come up with nothing that even resembles this package being available...the only 'package' that comes up is the 'bon-voyage' which consists of champagne, flowers and a balloon.
is this available only on certain ships??

[Desdemona01]

I think suite passengers on HAL also are allowed to stay in their rooms until their color is called.
Roberta

All pax on HAL ships are allowed to stay in their staterooms until their numbers are called, regardless of category.

[grannynurse]

Bluebobway,
Choose the printable gift list and look at the far right-hand side, the 3rd column of 3 and you'll see the suite packages. The amenities are listed but there are no prices listed.There's a number to call as the package prices are set by ship and length of cruise.
GN

[Charliesmom]

If all pax are allowed to stay in their rooms until their number is called, what is so special about a debarkation lounge? I'd much rather be comfortable in my own space.

Roberta

[kryos]

Why shouldn't someone who books a cabin early, regardless of category, not get their dining preference? And, I say this as someone who books relatively LATE and might not always get mine!!! I swear I'm starting to believe in conspiracies. Introduce AYW, then make $$$ because folks will pay extra to get their preference...

Susan, you're not alone. I'm believing that too. AYW dining is gonna be the dining venue for the "average bear" who takes a regular run-of-the-mill cabin. Traditional will probably be filled by people staying in suites or purchasing the suite enhancement packages. HAL came up with the AYW dining and then figured out a neat marketing plan to turn it into a cash cow for the line. Not fair to us, but let's be honest ... the line found a way to make more money via AYW dining by selling the slots in what will probably be the more popular traditional to people who will be willing to book the top of the line suites, or buy enhancement package for the lower level ones in order to guarantee themselves a slot in traditional. In effect, what HAL is now doing is charging people for the more popular dining format ... traditional. This is the same thing that the airlines are starting to do by charging people extra for the more popular seats, such as those in the bulkheads or on the aisles.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

All pax on HAL ships are allowed to stay in their staterooms until their numbers are called, regardless of category.
Unless they are planning to change this?

On Princess you can't stay in your cabin beyond a certain time. The Elite people, and probably those in the upper level suites, however, have a special lounge where they can wait until it's time to disembark. The "average bear" has to stand around the atrium and wait ... chairs are at a premium and are pretty much for the handicapped. Others grab spots to sit wherever they can find them ... on the floor, on the stairs, etc.

I'm wondering if maybe HAL is planning on changing their policy regarding waiting in the cabins. After all, if the stewards could get into those cabins earlier and get them cleaned, they would be ready for embarking guests as soon as they got onboard ... just as the case is with Princess.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[mechcc]

We love the deluxe suites for the space, concierge, bathroom-dressing area, free laundry, and Neptune Lounge goodies, in that order. For the extra price, the only things we would use would be the thermal suites and dinner at the Pinnacle. And only I would use the thermal suite and probably only 3 or 4 days at most on a seven day cruise. So that package doesn't sound like it's worth it. For the other cabins, using the preferred dining option, free laundry, and dinner at Pinnacle would also not make that worth the price. Therefore, we would pass on both these packages. As for taking the bathrobes home - we have to fly to and from port and I really don't want to limit our luggage weight allowance for taking "free" robes home. We would just have to take our chances on getting traditional dining and pass on this expensive option.

[Scrumpy]

Unless they are planning to change this?

On Princess you can't stay in your cabin beyond a certain time. The Elite people, and probably those in the upper level suites, however, have a special lounge where they can wait until it's time to disembark. The "average bear" has to stand around the atrium and wait ... chairs are at a premium and are pretty much for the handicapped. Others grab spots to sit wherever they can find them ... on the floor, on the stairs, etc.

I'm wondering if maybe HAL is planning on changing their policy regarding waiting in the cabins. After all, if the stewards could get into those cabins earlier and get them cleaned, they would be ready for embarking guests as soon as they got onboard ... just as the case is with Princess.

Blue skies ...

--rita

Boy, that would be a disappointing change. I really hope they never stop letting us stay in our cabins until time to disembark. It was a rude awakening on QM2 when we had to leave the cabin, especially since the stewardess actually started prepping the cabin for new occupants the night before! By the time we returned from breakfast, it looked to me like almost everything had been done except for, hopefully, a more thorough cleaning. It felt like we were being shoved out the door and I have LOVED staying in our own personal, private space on HAL. But, ya know, it may be happening. There may be some financial motivation behind it - some way to change the way they allocate staff or something... Dang, I don't WANT a special debarkation lounge. But, they're right, if they kick us out of the cabins, some of us would probably pay extra to avoid some of the crowds. (Hope no one in Seattle read that! No, I won't pay extra. No, no, no! LOL!)
Susan

[Jade13]

By not confirming anyone else until all the deluxe verandah suites have been sold and dining arrangements for them and anyone else who purchased the suite ammenities upgrade have been set and confirmed. No one other than those passengers (and perhaps people traveling with large groups) will have their dining arrangements confirmed until they are onboard. If there is no room left in your preferred time for dining, you'll just get corraled into As You Wish ... whether you "wish" it or not. My guess is just about everyone not in some sort of suite will be dining in As You Wish.

Blue skies ...

--rita

Rita, we confirm our table for two when we book (for our next cruise this was over a year in advance). We are not in a Suite but would not take the cruise if we were put in AYW.

[Jade13]

This reminds me of Celebrity when they launched their Concierge Class. The people who booked those rooms actually had (and still have) more perks then those who book suites. Their rationale is that people book suites for the room, while those that book CC rooms are booking for the perks. However they market this room as for people who want a taste of a suite, even though the suites don't get all that Concierge Class rooms get.
The problem with this for HAL is that their suites aren't as well laid out as Celebrity's. They way this package is set up is that the those in Superior Suites will get more then those in Deluxe Suites (minus Neptune Lounge). Deluxe Suites can get more perks, but what's the point? I like perks, so that's why I like to get Deluxe Suites, the extra package that is offered is nothing more then a few things bundled together that you can get while onboard. There is no exclusiveness that some people look for when they book a suite, or at least the exclusiveness has been somewhat compromised by offering the same perks in a lesser suite.

Drew, we booked our first Celebrity Cruise and it does sound like HAL is trying out the Celebrity Concierge Class. Big difference is that our cost to upgrade was only $30.00 pp ($60.00 total) on a 5 night cruise (2A Verandah to CC Verandah same size). We figured the priority embarkation and tender priority was worth it but most of what we are getting HAL gives to all its passengers even if they are in an inside such as fresh fruit and spa bath products. It does include flowers and afternoon canapes but I heard both aren't much.

[Jade13]

It looks like this is going to be of benefit to me as I am in a VA, HAL explained that you could be in any Category of cabin and book the Suite Amenities Package. The drinks package is 2 bottles of spirit and 2 of wine from a choice for our 2 week cruise. It is the priority debarkation procedure we really want - we were quoted more that $1200 to upgrade to a SY so remaining in our VA with this package works out better for us - shame about the smaller cabin

Hmm, VA's qualify? Perhaps I will look into this. We always book VA's because we like the location, but probably one of the few that pay the extra approx $1,500 on a 10 night (difference in Med for VA vs VF) for the same size cabin. We always do late debarkation (might as well enjoy our last breakfast) so never any issue getting off the ship. We also do not drink coffee.

[tooalto]

I spoke with Ship Services yesterday about this package. We are booked in a cat.VE on the Mar.8 sailing of the Noordam. She said this package was only available to passengers booked in suites, i.e. SX, SY, SZ, what used to be "SS" categories. The verandah cabins on the Vista ships are just that, verandah cabins. I'd love to be able to purchased this package, having sailed twice in the Delux Verandah Suite, but I just dont think it applies.

[kryos]

Boy, that would be a disappointing change. I really hope they never stop letting us stay in our cabins until time to disembark. It was a rude awakening on QM2 when we had to leave the cabin, especially since the stewardess actually started prepping the cabin for new occupants the night before!
I've actually had a similar thing happen on HAL. I went to breakfast in the Lido on the morning of disembarkation. My flight didn't leave until like 1:00 p.m. and we were in San Diego ... where the airport was a hop, a skip and a jump from the cruise port ... so I was in no hurry to get off the ship. When I returned to my cabin from breakfast, the steward had already split apart the beds into twins (guess the new occupants required twins) and had them made up. He also pretty much had the cabin all spruced up with the exception of the bathroom. I guess he was waiting for me to get the h*ll out so that he could get to that.

I'm just wondering if these new suite enhancement packages could signal a new policy that people who do not get them will be required to vacate their cabins by a certain time, while suite passengers will be allowed to remain in them ... or enjoy a nice disembarkation lounge ... until their number is called. I just hope that's not going to be the case, because it's one of the main reasons I stopped sailing Princess. I did not care to be herded into the atrium for a good hour or more waiting for my color to be called.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[hammybee]

I spoke with Ship Services yesterday about this package. We are booked in a cat.VE on the Mar.8 sailing of the Noordam. She said this package was only available to passengers booked in suites, i.e. SX, SY, SZ, what used to be "SS" categories. The verandah cabins on the Vista ships are just that, verandah cabins. I'd love to be able to purchased this package, having sailed twice in the Delux Verandah Suite, but I just dont think it applies.

The information on the HAL website confirms what Ship Services told you.

Here is a link to the page on the HAL website that addresses the two packages:

https://www.hollandamerica.com/pdfs/onboard/Gift_Order_Polar.pdf

It says The Suite Amenities Package is available for all suites, excluding Deluxe Veranda suites.

The Suite Elite Package is available to only those with a Deluxe Suite booking.

No where do I see any reference than a non-suite guest can buy incremental suite privledges.

[Jade13]

I spoke with Ship Services yesterday about this package. We are booked in a cat.VE on the Mar.8 sailing of the Noordam. She said this package was only available to passengers booked in suites, i.e. SX, SY, SZ, what used to be "SS" categories. The verandah cabins on the Vista ships are just that, verandah cabins. I'd love to be able to purchased this package, having sailed twice in the Delux Verandah Suite, but I just dont think it applies.

It didn't sound right to me either but someone else mentioned the VA's. I don't think there are a lot of SY, SZ's so they probably won't make much if that is the case, and seems to me the Suites should get all of these anyway based on the additional cost for them.

[hammybee]

It didn't sound right to me either but someone else mentioned the VA's. I don't think there are a lot of SY, SZ's so they probably won't make much if that is the case, and seems to me the Suites should get all of these anyway based on the additional cost for them.

Jade, We posted at the same time. See my post right above your post, for the facts, as opposed to speculation. I think the cabin naming conventions often confuse people and cause erroneous assumptions to be made.

[hammybee]

On another thread I reported that the average cost p/p for the most common cabin, on the Oosterdam, in February, is about $71, per day, exclusive of port charges, taxes, gratuities and fuel surcharge.

Put 3-4 passengers into one of these cabins, and it is possible that the p/p, per day cost could be as low as $25 !

That someone paying as little as $25 a day has access to the same transportation, ports, dining venues, food and entertainment as the person paying $400 a day is incredible. That all passengers can dine in cabin and remain in their cabin until their disembarkation color is called is probably not sustainable, at these prices.

I think a reality check is necessary.

[Scrumpy]

Forestwalkers - according to recent posts, your cabin would not qualify. Did you get specific info from HAL that contradicts that?

Thanks!
Susan

[Scrumpy]

On another thread I reported that the average cost p/p for the most common cabin, on the Oosterdam, in February, is about $71, per day, exclusive of port charges, taxes, gratuities and fuel surcharge.

Put 3-4 passengers into one of these cabins, and it is possible that the p/p, per day cost could be as low as $25 !

That someone paying as little as $25 a day has access to the same transportation, ports, dining venues, food and entertainment as the person paying $400 a day is incredible. That all passengers can dine in cabin and remain in their cabin until their disembarkation color is called is probably not sustainable, at these prices.

I think a reality check is necessary.

I wish prices would stop falling. I know I cannot control these things, but I wish very much that I could. Although it was great getting a bargain on a suite in September, it was too much of a bargain in the scheme of things. I can't really say to HAL, "no, don't give me that price. I should pay at least $500 more". It looks like the dye is cast and some of the things we love and have probably taken for granted may not be the same.

Maybe they'll stop building so doggone many new (huge) ships and prices will go up a little...and maybe pigs will fly.

Susan

[Scrumpy]

I've actually had a similar thing happen on HAL. I went to breakfast in the Lido on the morning of disembarkation. My flight didn't leave until like 1:00 p.m. and we were in San Diego ... where the airport was a hop, a skip and a jump from the cruise port ... so I was in no hurry to get off the ship. When I returned to my cabin from breakfast, the steward had already split apart the beds into twins (guess the new occupants required twins) and had them made up. He also pretty much had the cabin all spruced up with the exception of the bathroom. I guess he was waiting for me to get the h*ll out so that he could get to that.

I'm just wondering if these new suite enhancement packages could signal a new policy that people who do not get them will be required to vacate their cabins by a certain time, while suite passengers will be allowed to remain in them ... or enjoy a nice disembarkation lounge ... until their number is called. I just hope that's not going to be the case, because it's one of the main reasons I stopped sailing Princess. I did not care to be herded into the atrium for a good hour or more waiting for my color to be called.

Blue skies ...

--rita

Wow Rita, I'd never heard of HAL doing that. I must say that my first thought when I saw our bed made up on QM2 was, "wait, we've got 30 minutes. What if we wanted a quickie", LOL!!! Of course, another naughty thought was that with all those bottles of Pol Acker waiting to go in the cabins, we could make out like bandits on free booze. ;) Of course, we were good on both counts. It did seem like a shove out the door. I was a little miffed about them taking away our info book the day before, which I noticed while we were packing. I was going to snag a couple of post cards they have in there. I never manage to write them when I'm actually on a cruise, but I like one to keep and one to give to my mom.

What was your disembarkation experience like on Cunard? We went to Royal Court Theatre and it was about an hour and forty-five minutes before our deck was called. The most inconvenient thing was that everyone had their carry-ons, so once the aisle seats were taken, you had to pretty much climb over people and their luggage (while simultaneously trying to control your own) to get in and out. It was a tight squeeze. A different venue might have presented fewer difficulties, but I'm sure they thought of that already and this must have been one of the places they thought worked for most people. I ended up smoking in the pub part of the time and talking to other passengers while DH stayed with the bags. I was so glad that by the time our deck was called the folks on the end of our aisle were gone. I just knew I'd end up tripping and falling on them, LOL!!!

I guess we'll have to wait and see what HAL does, but there are definitely signs of a creep toward some more changes. I think businesses calculate a lot of this far, far in advance and it'll be interesting to see how many of our concerns are justified - if any.

Susan

[Forestwalkers]

I have booked the suite amenties package for my VA and have double checked with Ship Services (Joan). This package is for all cabins except for the Deluxe Suites with no minimum so you could be in an inside cabin and book it. It works out better for us as the extra for the SY being $1200 was too much just for the larger space.

[Jade13]

On another thread I reported that the average cost p/p for the most common cabin, on the Oosterdam, in February, is about $71, per day, exclusive of port charges, taxes, gratuities and fuel surcharge.

Put 3-4 passengers into one of these cabins, and it is possible that the p/p, per day cost could be as low as $25 !

That someone paying as little as $25 a day has access to the same transportation, ports, dining venues, food and entertainment as the person paying $400 a day is incredible. That all passengers can dine in cabin and remain in their cabin until their disembarkation color is called is probably not sustainable, at these prices.

I think a reality check is necessary.

Wow, is this in the Caribbean? Our HAL in the Med cruise is running closer to $300 per day (a lot more than this past year) but for an upcoming Celebrity Cruise (Caribbean) about $150 per day ($80.00 for an inside cabin). That is for Conceriage class and similar size to HAL VA (extras on Celebrity CC include priority embarkation, tender, flowers, champagne (prob wine), personalized stationary, daily canapes). Even a HAL rep last year told me there is so much competition in the Carribean their cruises are usually cheap.

The big special right now for HAL's 2008 Med cruises is the third pax rate at about $299.00 (10 day), so great for a family.

[Scrumpy]

I have booked the suite amenties package for my VA and have double checked with Ship Services (Joan). This package is for all cabins except for the Deluxe Suites with no minimum so you could be in an inside cabin and book it. It works out better for us as the extra for the SY being $1200 was too much just for the larger space.

Thank you! It's interesting, although not surprising, that other people are getting different answers.

I hope you have a wonderful cruise! Please tell us all about it when you return. :)

Susan

[Jade13]

I have booked the suite amenties package for my VA and have double checked with Ship Services (Joan). This package is for all cabins except for the Deluxe Suites with no minimum so you could be in an inside cabin and book it. It works out better for us as the extra for the SY being $1200 was too much just for the larger space.

What is the cost per day or is it totally different depending where you are (even the laundry packages are more expensive in the Med vs North America).

[kryos]

What was your disembarkation experience like on Cunard? We went to Royal Court Theatre and it was about an hour and forty-five minutes before our deck was called.
My disembarkation experience on Cunard wasn't typical ... because technically our "cabin" was not disembarking in New York ... only I was. My cabin mate was staying on to Fort Lauderdale. So, we did not have to be out of the cabin since it was still paid for until Fort Lauderdale. My cabinmate and I worked out the split of the money for those additional two days (she covered it since she would have the cabin to herself until Fort Lauderdale).

So, I didn't have to worry about where to hang until disembarkation. I could just stay in the cabin or aboard the ship or whatever. But I did have to be off by a certain time in order to see the Customs and immigration people. In fact, everyone had to see them ... even those getting off in Fort Lauderdale.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[Scrumpy]

Carib cruises seem to be the best bargains out there from what I've seen. There are soooo many ships down there.

I think the prices for a Med cruise make it so much more affordable than a land-based trip. Considering the exchange rate and hotel costs, I imagine we will do one of these some day.

[kryos]

I have booked the suite amenties package for my VA and have double checked with Ship Services (Joan). This package is for all cabins except for the Deluxe Suites with no minimum so you could be in an inside cabin and book it. It works out better for us as the extra for the SY being $1200 was too much just for the larger space.
I was under the impression it was for all "suite" type cabins. You can't book this sort of package for an inside cabin, can you? If so, there is no way they will be able to deliver everything they promise. What happens if 400 cabins onboard ship book a suite enhancement package, plus the deluxe suites ... and they all are entitled to have priority for their choice of dining arrangements. How the heck is HAL gonna accommodate all of those people if say, they all want early traditional dining?

Take the priority disembarkation at tender ports as another example. Say you have all these people who purchased the suite enhancement package, as well as those in deluxe suites. Every single passenger in those accommodations would qualify for priority tendering. Now let's say 90% of them show up at the tender station as soon as the ship has been cleared. It's easily gonna take a minimum of an hour to get all of them to shore ... probably a lot longer since you'll be interspersing them with shore excursions people. Now, let's say it's a short port stay ... it is now 2.5 to 3 hours into the port stay before "average bears" who have not booked shore excursions could get off the ship. Well, what's the point? They might only have two hours in port before they have to get right back on again.

No, these packages at least have to be restricted to those in a cabin category that is classified as some sort of suite. It's only logical.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[Scrumpy]

Since Forestwalkers says they are definitely confirmed for this, maybe HAL is waiting to see how well it goes over before they start restricting its use? Or, maybe they will initially sell it to (almost?) everyone who is willing to pay for it for a specified, limited time to make sure there is immediate income.

Just a thought.

Susan

[Jade13]

Since Forestwalkers says they are definitely confirmed for this, maybe HAL is waiting to see how well it goes over before they start restricting its use? Or, maybe they will initially sell it to (almost?) everyone who is willing to pay for it for a specified, limited time to make sure there is immediate income.

Just a thought.

Susan

It is a good money making idea. They can advertise at one price and make money on the amenities.

[Jade13]

Carib cruises seem to be the best bargains out there from what I've seen. There are soooo many ships down there.

I think the prices for a Med cruise make it so much more affordable than a land-based trip. Considering the exchange rate and hotel costs, I imagine we will do one of these some day.

Hal's itinerary is great! We did the Western Med this year and going back to do the Eastern next year. We did almost all private excursions last year but even HAL's are reasonable since you pay in dollars. We have two Med excursions booked with HAL for next year and will do some exploring on our own as well. Even the higher price (vs Caribbean) is reasonable when you start looking a Rome hotels.

[Forestwalkers]

The suite amenities package cost us $549 for a 2 week cruise. I thought that HAL was selling SOME of the amenities which are free to suite pax to other cabins - hence "suite amenities package'. I didn't think that suite pax would want to pay twice for some if not all of what they already get. Obviously we don't get the suite size cabin, or concierge service etc that the real suite pax get, but for us the disembarkation priority alone will be worth it. We would have bought the Pinnacle Grill, coffee cards, flowers, alcohol and unlimited laundry anyway. To upgrade to an SY would have cost us more than double.

[Jade13]

The suite amenities package cost us $549 for a 2 week cruise. I thought that HAL was selling SOME of the amenities which are free to suite pax to other cabins - hence "suite amenities package'. I didn't think that suite pax would want to pay twice for some if not all of what they already get. Obviously we don't get the suite size cabin, or concierge service etc that the real suite pax get, but for us the disembarkation priority alone will be worth it. We would have bought the Pinnacle Grill, coffee cards, flowers, alcohol and unlimited laundry anyway. To upgrade to an SY would have cost us more than double.

So, a 14 day cruise?

[Forestwalkers]

Jade13

14 nights on the Noordam 22nd December. We can hardly wait, we love sailing HAL but this is the first time on the Noordam. We sail from NYC and then (hopefully!!) the weather gets warmer as we cruise the Caribbean.
Our invoice from HAL shows the price for an 11 - 14 day cruise.

[kryos]

It is a good money making idea. They can advertise at one price and make money on the amenities.
It's a good idea, only as long as HAL can deliver on what is promised. Let someone with one of these packages not get their preferred dining arrangements, or get hung up waiting to get on a tender, and this "suite enhancement package" will quickly backfire in HAL's face.

Hopefully, if it sells briskly, HAL will quickly restrict the cabin classes that can qualify for it.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[welove2cruise232]

I e-mailed ship services to ask about this package. They replied with a little more detail on what's included, and quoted us a price of $399 for our upcoming 11 day Noordam cruise. In the first e-mail I asked if this was available to us, travelling in a VA. The first e-mail said yes. I responded, asking again to confirm that we could purchase this package. He/she said NO, only available to SA, SB and SC suites...:confused:

So, Forestwalkers, when you get back from your cruise, I would LOVE to hear if you actually received this package!

[gizmo]

I think you should email them again. The second email listed SA,SB,SC. That would be for the other package that is for suite (S) cabins.

[Two if by Sea]

The Suite Elite Package would be available to the SA, SB, SC. What about the Suite Amenities Package? That must be for SX, SY, SZ, at least?

[hammybee]

This is the same thing that the airlines are starting to do by charging people extra for the more popular seats, such as those in the bulkheads or on the aisles.

Blue skies ...--rita

I do believe U.S. domestic airline carriers are the crystal ball for the future of mass marketed cruising. When consumers abandoned the big carriers in favor of so-called discount and alternative carriers and chose their flights by price, the consumer made it clear what was really important. Consumers demonstrated their willingness to forgo most of the so-called basics in favor of better pricing. The more affordable airline travel has become, the more seats that can be filled.

Earlier this year, it cost me more to get to/from the airport than it did to fly R/T, Chicago to Florida. No doubt in my mind that the taxi driver made more profit than the airline did, on this particular junket.

The discounters/aleternative airlines forced the big guns to compete and that they did by reducing service and/or making services otherwise included, available for an incremental fee.

As you say, most airlines allow the passenger the ability to obtain more by paying more, for known and or premium seat assignments, within coach class. This is, I think, just the begining.

I have always found it a curiosity that the majority of out of cabin experience on cruise lines is the same, regardless of what someone paid for their cruise. And I say this as someone who sails in the cheaper seats, more often than not. The gap between the cost of an Inside/Outside cabin and a Deluxe Suite is usually huge.

That HAL, or any cruise line for that matter, is awakening to the marketing potential of packaging some perks and making them available to those who do not pay top dollar for them, is predicatble. The more choices a consumer has, the more likely the consumer will choose to upgrade something, instead of doing without, a predicatable outcome.

Those who pay for Deluxe Suites can continue to rationalize the expense because on a per square footage basis they are paying less than the least expensive, inside cabin. That's how I rationalize the occasional booking of a Suite, over something less costly. We all rationalize our expenditures. How else is it, that so many of us pay $3 for a coffee, now days?

[kryos]

So, Forestwalkers, when you get back from your cruise, I would LOVE to hear if you actually received this package!
If it's available to all cabin classes, then they shouldn't call it a "Suites Ammenities Package." That is very, very confusing.

I too would like to know if this package is available to all cabin classes ... including cabins that do not even have a balcony.

I guess we'll have to wait until people staying in lower-level accommodations who buy it return from their cruises and report on whether or not they actually received it.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[margretha]

We are booked on two HAL cruises over the next 7 months - it is a special year! I've looked online and downloaded the "Gift Guide" because for Christmas a family member wants to surprise us with a special package. Being dim and probably unable to properly navigate my way through the HAL website for info, could anyone tell me where there is a list of what suite amenities are? We have booked a SA on the Westerdam and S for gigantic once in a lifetime Maasdam. We don't know what we'll get as regular amenities so can't tell family member what not to order. Hope this makes sense. Thanks to anyone for any info. margretha who is still trying to figure out those countdown clocks while the snow softly falls outside.....:cool:

[fann1sh]

There are 3 of us in a SC on Dec. 15 on Zuiderdam. I'm going to call and see if we can get the Suite Elite package to cover all of us, and how much that would be. If it's flat rate per cabin, and that gives all three access to the spa pool/thermal suite, if we get 3 Pinnacle dinners...sound fine. Not so much if they charge per person. Hadn't planned on internet time or coffee card, but want the rest of the package. Will report back later.

[fann1sh]

Margretha, I hope this link works - list of suite amenities - http://www.hollandamerica.com/pdfs/media/factsheets/StateroomAmenities_FactSheet.pdf

Scroll down to the end. Suite amenities are listed last!

[margretha]

Fann1sh,
We are forever in your debt! I've downloaded it and now can send it to
family and instead of gloves or another magazine subscription we'll get a great surprise onboard. Hope your holidays are happy! And you are snow free.
margretha:cool:

[welove2cruise232]

Haven't heard from you -- so were you in fact able to purchase the suite amenities package???

[loungeboy]

What a great thread. It covers something I probably never would have heard about if it weren't for cruisecritic. i guess I'll be checking downloadable gift forms from now on! :)

[ekerr19]

I saw this "advertised" on our December Westerdam cruise and thought "what the...?????"

While we really enjoy the Deluxe Verandah Suite, I am disappointed HAL has taken another step closer to lessening the overall experience by making it available to all cabins.

There will be no advantage to booking a Deluxe Verandah Suite at HAL's current price levels (which are rarely discounted!) when we can get just about any other cabin a great deal cheaper and have the same perks.

I also have to say this; HAL has a hard enough time getting those persons entitled to priority embarkation and disembarkation squared away now - I can't imagine what it's going to be like when they start with optional "packages" - and two different packages, no less. I can see it now - "But, I bought a prepaid package allowing my whole group priority!!!!!!!" as a red vest tries to explain that only applies per person, or to a certain "type" of package etc. etc.

What a headache. I definitely feel it coming on, big time. :mad:

[ekerr19]

duplicate....

[ekerr19]

Wow, a triple post... I'm on a roll today!

[kryos]

While we really enjoy the Deluxe Verandah Suite, I am disappointed HAL has taken another step closer to lessening the overall experience by making it available to all cabins.

I can only guess that those who purchase the package will have different color key cards ... if everyone in your group doesn't purchase it, then they won't have the magic color cards and won't get the bennies ... and that could be a problem if you have a family group trying to get priority tendering and only some of them are able to get on the tender, while others are sent back to the lounge to wait in line for tickets.

As for dilluting the value of the Deluxe Suite ... I would hope that HAL will cap the amount of these packages they sell to only that quantity they can comfortably service. If they sell 300 "ammenity packages" for non-deluxe suite holders, then I hope they've determined they can deliver those ammenties to 300 people without impacting those in the deluxe verandah suite. Also, note that ALL ammenties of the deluxe veranda suite are not being provided in these ammenity packages. For example, no one can purchase an add-on package that will give them access to the Neptune Lounge and the concierge. Only those in qualifying suites get that. I am sure the reason for this is that HAL knows they cannot accommodate additional passengers in that lounge, and thus they don't offer it. Let's hope they are using the same "good sense" with the other ammenities ... only offering them to the number of people who can be comfortably accommodated.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[rwilli01]

Barb would you mind letting me know how to find out what the suite perks are.
We are in a SA in november and just courious what we will recieve as perks. thank you, kay

[hammybee]

As for dilluting the value of the Deluxe Suite ... I would hope that HAL will cap the amount of these packages they sell to only that quantity they can comfortably service. If they sell 300 "ammenity packages" for non-deluxe suite holders, then I hope they've determined they can deliver those ammenties to 300 people without impacting those in the deluxe verandah suite. Blue skies ...--rita

The only package available to non Deluxe Suites is the Suite Amenities Package. One needs to be booked in a SS, SY or SZ to be eligible. There are about 150-160 such cabins on a VISTA Class ship.

The cost will preclude many from booking.

The best kept secret of marketing these package will preclude most from booking, at any price. :D

[hammybee]

Barb would you mind letting me know how to find out what the suite perks are.
We are in a SA in november and just courious what we will recieve as perks. thank you, kay

See posts # 2 and 4 or this link, way over to the right hand side:

https://www.hollandamerica.com/pdfs/onboard/Gift_Order_Polar.pdf

[kryos]

As you say, most airlines allow the passenger the ability to obtain more by paying more, for known and or premium seat assignments, within coach class. This is, I think, just the begining.

I wholeheartedly agree with you. I see flying as becoming no more "elegant" than taking a city bus to your destination ... with the only exception being that you are guaranteed a seat on the plane ... no necessarily a good or a comfortable seat, but at least a seat. The city bus doesn't give you that guarantee.

And, in some respects, I don't blame the airlines at all for this. After all, they have payrolls to meet, fuel bills to pay, etc. With the flying public insisting on cheap fares, there is no way they can operate profitably without reducing, and eventually eliminating, all ammenties. I see the day when seats are even tighter ... in order to get more squeezed onto the plane. I see a day, and it's actually here already with some airlines, where baggage allowances will become very strict ... very limited ... in order to have the spare weight capacity to squeeze more paying passengers onto the plane. I see the day when if you are even moderately overweight you will be forced to purchase an extra seat, because the seats will be so tightly packed in that the airlines will be at risk for fights breaking out if someone's extra bulk is infringing on what little seat room their aisle-mate has. I see the day when you will have maybe one flight attendant per aisle ... maybe a total of two in a large coach cabin ... and there will be no such thing as beverage service onboard. You want a beverage, then purchase it in the airport before you get on the plane, because you won't get it there ... or at least you won't get it unless you purchase an overpriced meal.

But we've asked for these things with our demand for lower airfares. And, thankfully, the lower airfares have made it possible for more people to travel ... people who otherwise wouldn't have been able to afford it. So, maybe it's a good thing. And for those of us who really can't deal with the crowded conditions in coach, I guess we could always spring for that higher priced business or first class ticket.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[twinkletoes4445]

It's a good idea, only as long as HAL can deliver on what is promised. Let someone with one of these packages not get their preferred dining arrangements, or get hung up waiting to get on a tender, and this "suite enhancement package" will quickly backfire in HAL's face.

Hopefully, if it sells briskly, HAL will quickly restrict the cabin classes that can qualify for it.

Blue skies ...

--rita

This could very well backfire on them, but time will tell.

We're in an SA and I was curious how this is going to work for the debarkation. I was told that the Deluxe (P-SA-SB-SC) will still have priority when it comes to leaving the ship (on the final day). Not sure how this is going to work, but it sounded like they will call the P through SC to disembark first, then those that purchased the suite package next.

I told her I hope that's how this works.

Part of the reason we book an SA is because of the perks, and if they start offering them to all the other categories of cabins, then why should we bother paying extra? Sure, we love the NL and the size of our cabin, but they better be careful what they are doing or this could be a problem.

It would be like the airline offering first-class perks without you having to pay the first-class ticket price.

As for the debarkation at the ports where you tender, it sounds like those that purchased the suite package will be able to exit the ship the same way as those that are in an P-SC. This could create problem if they sell a lot of these passes...or maybe there won't be an issue. I guess time will tell.

The reason we sail HAL is because of these perks. If they are eliminated or open to tons of cabins, which could essentially more than double the amount of people who are using these services, then we'll certainly look at other lines for our cruises. But I don't know how many people will shell out the money for these extras.

And it is entirely possible that we will notice no difference in service or availability of the perks.

[Jade13]

The only package available to non Deluxe Suites is the Suite Amenities Package. One needs to be booked in a SS, SY or SZ to be eligible. There are about 150-160 such cabins on a VISTA Class ship.

The cost will preclude many from booking.

The best kept secret of marketing these package will preclude most from booking, at any price. :D

What I don't understand is that someone posted they were in a VA and booked this package. Was it was just an errror?

[Jade13]

double post.

[Jade13]

The reason we sail HAL is because of these perks. If they are eliminated or open to tons of cabins, which could essentially more than double the amount of people who are using these services, then we'll certainly look at other lines for our cruises. But I don't know how many people will shell out the money for these extras.

And it is entirely possible that we will notice no difference in service or availability of the perks.

Which perks? Besides the NL, I don't think HAL offers that many more amenties than those in other cabins, especially compared to other lines. Everyone gets the Elemis bath products.

Also, just because everyone in Suites has priority tender, doesn't mean those passengers want to get off the ship first at 7:00am in the morning. The same for disembarkation. The great thing about HAL is that everyone can wait in their stateroom until called. If I remember, we were just asked to check off which time we wanted to leave.

[ekerr19]

Argh! The site is unbearable slow today!

Anyway, I was trying to quote part of Rita's post on the prior page and couldn't...

Here's my beef:

As other premium lines offer more (and believe me - we look) HAL appears more and more like "mainstream", which frankly, isn't necessarily what I'm looking for when it comes to paying the cost for the SA and PS categories on HAL.

For example, I am looking at an Oceania brochure - a 16 day Panama cruise we'd love to take is $9K pp for the Owner's Suite (the big daddy of them all) and comes with perks HAL hasn't even thought of yet. A Dell laptop provided for my convenience? Love it. Packing and Unpacking upon request? Oh yeah - my least favorite part of the cruise is the packing and unpacking! Priority this and priority that - plus a butler. :)

All on a smaller ship (which we prefer), about 700 people. The other line we've looked at lately is Azamara - also great deals to be had - we were quoted a RT South America (Rio) cruise for less than $10K (for the TWO of us, including air) on a 12 day sailing in a suite comparable to an SS on HAL, but with more perks.

As HAL continues to dilute, other lines will pick up the "diluted", including people like us. :)

[twinkletoes4445]

Which perks? Besides the NL, I don't think HAL offers that many more amenties than those in other cabins, especially compared to other lines. Everyone gets the Elemis bath products.

Also, just because everyone in Suites has priority tender, doesn't mean those passengers want to get off the ship first at 7:00am in the morning. The same for disembarkation. The great thing about HAL is that everyone can wait in their stateroom until called. If I remember, we were just asked to check off which time we wanted to leave.

The perks that we enjoyed the most were the NL and the boarding process and the priority tendering pass. For us, that's why we booked. What other line has something along the line as the Neptune Lounge?

The bath products don't matter diddly to us, they were nice, but not something that I care about. :)

I don't know what "everyone" wants to do, but I do know that we want to get off the ship early. If they sell too many of these packages, it could cause a problem...or not.

When we left the ship, we couldn't get off until our color was called. I suppose if you have circumstances that might require you getting off the ship early (like and early flight) you might make arrangements to do this. We ended up waiting with some friends of ours because they had a different color ticket than ours and they couldn't get off when our color was called.

Never have we been asked what time we want off a ship...we were assigned color coded tags and were called off by those.

[twinkletoes4445]

Argh! The site is unbearable slow today!

It sure is!


As other premium lines offer more (and believe me - we look) HAL appears more and more like "mainstream", which frankly, isn't necessarily what I'm looking for when it comes to paying the cost for the SA and PS categories on HAL.

For example, I am looking at an Oceania brochure - a 16 day Panama cruise we'd love to take is $9K pp for the Owner's Suite (the big daddy of them all) and comes with perks HAL hasn't even thought of yet. A Dell laptop provided for my convenience? Love it. Packing and Unpacking upon request? Oh yeah - my least favorite part of the cruise is the packing and unpacking! Priority this and priority that - plus a butler. :)

All on a smaller ship (which we prefer), about 700 people. The other line we've looked at lately is Azamara - also great deals to be had - we were quoted a RT South America (Rio) cruise for less than $10K (for the TWO of us, including air) on a 12 day sailing in a suite comparable to an SS on HAL, but with more perks.

As HAL continues to dilute, other lines will pick up the "diluted", including people like us. :)

My hubby will not get on a small ship, and that's that. No discussing it with him, so this would be out for us, at least at this point in time. That's interesting about the perks on those lines.

I do think you're right...as HAL continues to dilute, they will lose many of their passengers to other lines. And we may even try something different...but this won't happen anytime soon for us, or at least I don't think it will. If we get to the ship and the lines are long...because they've sold tons of the "packages" then hubby may change his mind about the smaller ships.

[sreed41]

Just went to the HAL website and looked at the gift order form. Unless I'm reading it incorrectly, it specifies that the amenities package is for those in suites only. So, if that's true, then those of us booked in anything less than a suite (we're in a VA on the Westerdam in March) are not eligible for this package. Good news for suite passengers; too bad news for the rest of us.

[ekerr19]

twinkletoes4445-

We really like the smaller ships! Have you tried them? Doesn't feel so much like your "mass market" when you're on a smaller ship... for me, anyway.

DH and I were just discussing a brochure from our TA today showing a 2nd person fare free on Oceania (next year on my b-day!)... a 15-day cruise around the cape for $ 7K... it's very tempting, especially with 2nd person free.

Prices are comparable to HAL.

[twinkletoes4445]

twinkletoes4445-

We really like the smaller ships! Have you tried them? Doesn't feel so much like your "mass market" when you're on a smaller ship... for me, anyway.

DH and I were just discussing a brochure from our TA today showing a 2nd person fare free on Oceania (next year on my b-day!)... a 15-day cruise around the cape for $ 7K... it's very tempting, especially with 2nd person free.

Prices are comparable to HAL.

I'd do a smaller ship in a nansecond. I guess I shouldn't say he'd "never" do a smaller ship, because he might. I never thought he'd agree to a 10-day cruise, and when I asked him, he said "sure." I didn't even have to beg! It's not that he doesn't like to vacation, but we have a business and it's hard to get away from it for long periods of time. However, we have one son now in the business, and probably another will join him in the future...so there's hope for me that some day soon I'll get a two week cruise!

7K for two for a 15-day cruise sounds like a heck of a deal. It's certainly worth checking out. I think the HAL prices are pretty good. When we go to Grand Cayman for a week...between the condo rental, car rental, and food, it's a lot more expensive than being in an SA for a week.

Thanks for the information. I'll have to check it out for future cruises. :)