FTTF- don't get upset that I ask

[Ta8633]

I have read many posts on this but am having trouble finding if people think it is a good deal and worth it?

Just noticed its available on the ecstasy for my cruise in 2 weeks.

[3dashers]

I have seen a couple reviews saying it was worth it. You might try the search tool as it may have been a few weeks back.

We have purchased it ... Our take
1). Getting on board right behind the platinum diamond folks- this might be great or there could be a delay so not so great. We don't expect 'early' more like pre zone 1
2). Room ready - score
3). Tendering priority - good if you have tender ports and plans. Yahoo
4). Dinner - I think you may have access to a line with less wait. Neutral for us
5). Guest services - you have a special line (I think the one for plat/diamond). Neutral for us I don't think we have ever gone to gs.

So depending on your cruise style it may or may not be worth it. I may have missed or generalized but this is our take.

[serene56]

if you plan on getting to the pier around 11am you do not need it. arriving later in the day it would be worth it

[tef43]

FTTF is an insult to those who invested their time and money to stay loyal to Carnival. CCL has put a price on that loyalty, it's worth $50.

[revforjefgor24]

Originally Posted by Ta8633

I have read many posts on this but am having trouble finding if people think it is a good deal and worth it?

Just noticed its available on the ecstasy for my cruise in 2 weeks.

This program is like any other. The value lies in what type of cruiser you are. If you get to the port early as a rule, getting on the ship before 12:30 is usually no problem. My wife and I have visited the pursors desk maybe 3 times in 11 cruises, so a seperate line isnt a priority. Some perks may be of great benefit to you and yours, while others will be seldom used. I also think it depends upon your personality and attitude as well...if you are like us; very laid back cruisers who dont mind waiting a little when need be, save your money for a wonderful formal portrait or a nice item from the duty free shop. Hope you have a wonderful cruise!

[revforjefgor24]

Originally Posted by tef43

FTTF is an insult to those who invested their time and money to stay loyal to Carnival. CCL has put a price on that loyalty, it's worth $50.

My thoughts exactly. Why not just allow Gold Level to upgrade for $50.00? This new program does shed light though on the thought process behind changing the loyalty program to days vs. cruises.

[kicia]

Originally Posted by 3dashers

I have seen a couple reviews saying it was worth it. You might try the search tool as it may have been a few weeks back.

We have purchased it ... Our take
1). Getting on board right behind the platinum diamond folks- this might be great or there could be a delay so not so great. We don't expect 'early' more like pre zone 1
2). Room ready - score
3). Tendering priority - good if you have tender ports and plans. Yahoo
4). Dinner - I think you may have access to a line with less wait. Neutral for us
5). Guest services - you have a special line (I think the one for plat/diamond). Neutral for us I don't think we have ever gone to gs.

So depending on your cruise style it may or may not be worth it. I may have missed or generalized but this is our take.

On number 4 - there is no way to bypass the line for anytime dining whether you're FTTF or Diamond.

[Rottweiler Puppy]

Originally Posted by tef43

FTTF is an insult to those who invested their time and money to stay loyal to Carnival. CCL has put a price on that loyalty, it's worth $50.

I see where you are coming from and its understandable but I have to ask..

So what are your opinions on those who purchase it? Do the Carnival devotees / Platinums in the lounge sneer at the FTTF folks?

[Smiling Cruiser]

With FTTF you have to pay $50.00 everytime you sail. You only need to reach Platinum once. As I see it Platinum would be at least worth $450.00.

As for loyalty, how many have never cruised another cruise line?

[tef43]

Originally Posted by Rottweiler Puppy

I see where you are coming from and its understandable but I have to ask..

So what are your opinions on those who purchase it? Do the Carnival devotees / Platinums in the lounge sneer at the FTTF folks?

Remains to be seen. We've yet to sail on a ship where/when FTTF is offered.

[Rottweiler Puppy]

Originally Posted by tef43

Remains to be seen. We've yet to sail on a ship where/when FTTF is offered.

How about you in particular. You dont have to answer of course.

[Jenbo57]

Originally Posted by 3dashers

I have seen a couple reviews saying it was worth it. You might try the search tool as it may have been a few weeks back.

We have purchased it ... Our take
1). Getting on board right behind the platinum diamond folks- this might be great or there could be a delay so not so great. We don't expect 'early' more like pre zone 1
2). Room ready - score
3). Tendering priority - good if you have tender ports and plans. Yahoo
4). Dinner - I think you may have access to a line with less wait. Neutral for us
5). Guest services - you have a special line (I think the one for plat/diamond). Neutral for us I don't think we have ever gone to gs.

So depending on your cruise style it may or may not be worth it. I may have missed or generalized but this is our take.

You missed one...priority luggage delivery.

For us, having the room ready when we board and having our luggage soon afterwards is worth every penny of that $50.

[kona_wahine]

Originally Posted by Rottweiler Puppy

I see where you are coming from and its understandable but I have to ask..

So what are your opinions on those who purchase it? Do the Carnival devotees / Platinums in the lounge sneer at the FTTF folks?

Well, that would be very childish and I hope no one would do that.

[tef43]

Originally Posted by Rottweiler Puppy

How about you in particular. You dont have to answer of course.

It's their money, and they would board *after* me.

This question would be better asked of a VIFP Gold with like 65 nights sailed, who is still sitting out in the corral with the unwashed masses.

[chasinraynbowz]

I am hoping it's offered on the Conquest when we cruise in December.

[kona_wahine]

Originally Posted by chasinraynbowz

I am hoping it's offered on the Conquest when we cruise in December.

You may want to check now. under excursions and the port you leave from.

[SadieN]

Originally Posted by 3dashers

...............4). Dinner - I think you may have access to a line with less wait. Neutral for us
..................

Originally Posted by kicia

On number 4 - there is no way to bypass the line for anytime dining whether you're FTTF or Diamond.

Adding on--

As stated above it's not for Priority dining aready onboard. It is for being on the priority list when assignments are being made.
As a Platinum we once booked a cruise too close to the sail date and we could not be accomodated with our choice.
There is a cutoff date.

A few times waiting in the ATD line the hostess knew we were Platinum and pulled us forward.

Are the FTTF S&S cards marked? I've only seen FTTF boarding passes on CC.

[BigDfromTN]

Originally Posted by Smiling Cruiser

With FTTF you have to pay $50.00 everytime you sail. You only need to reach Platinum once. As I see it Platinum would be at least worth $450.00.

As for loyalty, how many have never cruised another cruise line?

Not sure how many but this guy and his DW are two. Our DD will become Platinum this summer and she is another.

Originally Posted by Rottweiler Puppy

I see where you are coming from and its understandable but I have to ask..

So what are your opinions on those who purchase it? Do the Carnival devotees / Platinums in the lounge sneer at the FTTF folks?

As I understand FTTF folks will not be using the Platinum/Diamond Lounge. So Im saying the answer would be no.


To The OP. Like others have said. I think the big things are faster embarkation, faster luggage delivery, and faster to your room. If you do not board early this is negligible value. If you do, Maybe its a good deal??? Personally I hardly ever go to GS desk and when I have even at the VIP line service there is not much quicker unless there is a huge line. If thats the case I normally wait and go another time.

enjoy your cruise.

[Ta8633]

Thanks for the responses. I know I will have a great time whether I buy it or not. $50 would be more drinks on the ship.

Only thing that interests me most is the prIorIty tender boarding. But I can wait with the best of them. I also don't want to be eye-balled by the platinum members.

I can't wait as this is my first cruise. Woo Hoo! As I say in my job in planning large events, as long as I don't get food poisoning or die, it will be a success!

[BigDfromTN]

Originally Posted by Ta8633

Thanks for the responses. I know I will have a great time whether I buy it or not. $50 would be more drinks on the ship.

Only thing that interests me most is the prIorIty tender boarding. But I can wait with the best of them. I also don't want to be eye-balled by the platinum members.

I can't wait as this is my first cruise. Woo Hoo! As I say in my job in planning large events, as long as I don't get food poisoning or die, it will be a success!

Great Attitude. You will have fun.

Welcome to the Addiction of cruising!!!