I already hate NCL

[RCmommy]

Up until recently I was a huge advocate for NCL, would tell anyone I could how much we loved the company and our cruise. Lately, I feel very discouraged.

 

Starting July 4th until July 9th I had to call the NCL phone number and was put off and on hold for approximately 4 hours in total between 4 phone calls on four different days. I don't know about you but I have better things to do with my time.

 

I have a whole thread on the issue, but essentially I was being told my deposit was in accounting waiting to be submitted when in fact NCL has cancelled that reservation and not told me.

 

Before you bash me, no I did not miss the hold payment deadline, the cruise was not put on hold, I paid the deposit plus some right when I booked it.

 

I understand things happen and all companies will have their issues. What I don't appreciate is the fact that the supervisor I finally spoke with admitted to me that this all happened because none of the 4 different reps I spoke with read the notes on my file and had no apology to go with it. Then proceeds to tell me how lucky I am that she was able to reinstate my cruise at the same price (that THEY cancelled) when I went online and could have in fact booked for a few dollars cheaper that night.

 

Thanks a lot.

[SissasMomE]

Up until recently I was a huge advocate for NCL, would tell anyone I could how much we loved the company and our cruise. Lately, I feel very discouraged.

 

Starting July 4th until July 9th I had to call the NCL phone number and was put off and on hold for approximately 4 hours in total between 4 phone calls on four different days. I don't know about you but I have better things to do with my time.

 

I have a whole thread on the issue, but essentially I was being told my deposit was in accounting waiting to be submitted when in fact NCL has cancelled that reservation and not told me.

 

Before you bash me, no I did not miss the hold payment deadline, the cruise was not put on hold, I paid the deposit plus some right when I booked it.

 

I understand things happen and all companies will have their issues. What I don't appreciate is the fact that the supervisor I finally spoke with admitted to me that this all happened because none of the 4 different reps I spoke with read the notes on my file and had no apology to go with it. Then proceeds to tell me how lucky I am that she was able to reinstate my cruise at the same price (that THEY cancelled) when I went online and could have in fact booked for a few dollars cheaper that night.

 

Thanks a lot.

 

The knowledge of the phone reps seem to be seriously lacking. It's the one consistent complaint on these boards. I have a really good PCC, but they seem to be few and far between. If there is one area that NCL needs to improve on, it's this, for sure!

[cruise_alot123]

When it comes to booking, why do people always do the work themselves? I always use Expedia and Priceline and never had any problems. Also, when using a TA, I get more discounts such as OBC and etc... Why bother to call NCL when you can get a better rate with a TA?

[RCmommy]

I have an assigned PCC that I don't use. I just call the 800 number and speak to whoever answers the phone.

 

I was assigned a PCC and called him, but of course when I called he had no record of my booking (because NCL had in fact cancelled it) although accounting did tell him my deposit was in que to be taken care of. What the??

 

The next day I called him again when I had no email confirmation (still) and his response was that he was not getting credit for my phantom booking so the problem is not his and hung up.

 

To the OP, we all have varying opinions on what is a big deal and meaningful to us. Others may laugh and joke at what you feel your issues are, it is what it is.

[RCmommy]

I would like to add that this entire issue came down to the fact that the first booking was in USD. Then it was changed to CAD by a rep. The deposit was to transfer on Monday when accounting go a hold of it.

 

Days later, and three different reps spoken with, a supervisor eventually comes on to tell me that NCL cannot, nor ever could transfer a deposit in USD to a CAD booking. Therefore, I had no cruise booked now.

 

and the 4 people I spoke to, nobody knew that? nobody could see this cruise was cancelled?

[RCmommy]

When it comes to booking, why do people always do the work themselves? I always use Expedia and Priceline and never had any problems. Also, when using a TA, I get more discounts such as OBC and etc... Why bother to call NCL when you can get a better rate with a TA?

 

I use these sites as well for other travel. I do not feel comfoortable booking a cruise this way however because we are not experienced cruisers. I am still learning "the ropes" if you will. :)

[Sizzlechest]

When it comes to booking, why do people always do the work themselves? I always use Expedia and Priceline and never had any problems. Also, when using a TA, I get more discounts such as OBC and etc... Why bother to call NCL when you can get a better rate with a TA?

 

If you cancel the cruise, you may have to pay a penalty to the TA as well as NCL. Having said that, my TA has been spectacular. I booked with a big discount club and their service and prices have been the best. The poor TA has to wait on the phone for 4 hours, not me.

[cruise_alot123]

If you cancel the cruise, you may have to pay a penalty to the TA as well as NCL. Having said that, my TA has been spectacular. I booked with a big discount club and their service and prices have been the best. The poor TA has to wait on the phone for 4 hours, not me.

 

Exactly! I always give the info to the TA and s/he does all the work especially if the wait is more than 10 mins. I just told them to call me back when it's ready to book. However, I did notice you always get a better deal or OBC when booking with a TA. Booking directly with the cruise line is a no, no and not only the wait is longer but they tend to have less promos.

Edited July 11, 2014 by cruise_alot123

[againin13]

I know that things occur but less than 30 minutes ago I called the direct number the 877 number for Norwegian a recording came on and asked if I needed a reservation for if I had one of course I chose that I had one with and three rings it was answered by a live person in less than five minutes on my questions were answered and the representative could not have been more cordial just saying sometimes it's just the luck of the draw I was very lucky I got a magnificent representative just hoping your next encounter will be as nice as mine was

 

 

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[cruise_alot123]

Can I count on you on my next booking for the super fast service?

[halos]

It's a bit frustrating when someone posts a rant like that on here where there are people who can help, but they never check back.

 

If people would understand that CC is a place for information and not just a place to gripe, their lives (and cruises) would be a lot better.

[Annmeat]

Up until recently I was a huge advocate for NCL, would tell anyone I could how much we loved the company and our cruise. Lately, I feel very discouraged.

 

Starting July 4th until July 9th I had to call the NCL phone number and was put off and on hold for approximately 4 hours in total between 4 phone calls on four different days. I don't know about you but I have better things to do with my time.

 

I have a whole thread on the issue, but essentially I was being told my deposit was in accounting waiting to be submitted when in fact NCL has cancelled that reservation and not told me.

 

Before you bash me, no I did not miss the hold payment deadline, the cruise was not put on hold, I paid the deposit plus some right when I booked it.

 

I understand things happen and all companies will have their issues. What I don't appreciate is the fact that the supervisor I finally spoke with admitted to me that this all happened because none of the 4 different reps I spoke with read the notes on my file and had no apology to go with it. Then proceeds to tell me how lucky I am that she was able to reinstate my cruise at the same price (that THEY cancelled) when I went online and could have in fact booked for a few dollars cheaper that night.

 

Thanks a lot.

 

The OP came on foaming at the mouth and has not reappeared. You have a legit beef. OP 's beef seems a bit, ummm, not so much. Sorry. I feel no pity for her and no guilt for not welcoming her to the NCL boards. Whatever the heck that means !

 

She is peeved because the rep is not upset that her son is not getting sushi. She doesn't like the drink card policy. Perhaps she stubbed her toe. Who knows. She is not new to cruising or to cruise critic.

To many of us, her reaction is over the top.

 

 

Your story sounds like one that would frustrate any of us. I did not see your whole thread, so I cannot comment on your reaction, but I do know that I have not seen another" I hate NCL :mad: thread in the past week.

 

When one is bold enough to want to come in to a forum and vent, one must also realize they may be supported...or mocked..or teased...or laughed at. This ain't OPs first rodeo.

 

RCMommy, I had a cruise cancelled by a rep once, but I was not made aware until final payment. No credit appeared on my Amex for the deposit, and it was pre-computer booking days so there was no checking the reservation on line.It turned out okay in the end, so I hear you loud and clear.

 

Have a Great trip.

 

But no one can come on the boards and expect a free passI was mocked for making a silly statement about using the room card directly in the slot machines. I said something like " oops- there goes the college fund" . Did not sit right with long-time CC lady . Whatever.

[againin13]

Yes I will do anything I can to help the experience be better iBook directly through casinos at sea and if I'm allowed to give the consultants names I'll give you his name also

 

 

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[cruise_alot123]

I play high stake poker at the Maryland Live casino on a weekly basis and got a free 7 night cruise for 2 from NCL last month. Only need to pay taxes. Going on the Gem to NE this fall and very much looking forward to it. Here I come for that lobster roll and do expect to pay $ 20 unless NCL serves it on board. Just wishful thinking :).

[Bars7816]

"...The next day I called him again when I had no email confirmation (still) and his response was that he was not getting credit for my phantom booking so the problem is not his and hung up...."

 

That is hilarious. I presume he no longer has a job!

[Bars7816]

When it comes to booking, why do people always do the work themselves? I always use Expedia and Priceline and never had any problems. Also, when using a TA, I get more discounts such as OBC and etc... Why bother to call NCL when you can get a better rate with a TA?

Exactly! :)

[Planmaam]

Wow. Second day in a row I've had some entertaining lunch-time reading! ;)

[PDIDDYwife]

I play high stake poker at the Maryland Live casino on a weekly basis and got a free 7 night cruise for 2 from NCL last month. Only need to pay taxes. Going on the Gem to NE this fall and very much looking forward to it. Here I come for that lobster roll and do expect to pay $ 20 unless NCL serves it on board. Just wishful thinking :).

 

I LOVE that place. Was there yesterday for the first time. So clean, not smokey and great dim sum.

 

I'll have to sign up,for their players club and also start playing high stakes cards!,,

 

Pdiddywife

 

And this is not a pro or con smoking statement. Just an observation!

Edited July 11, 2014 by PDIDDYwife
Clarity

[againin13]

I play high stake poker at the Maryland Live casino on a weekly basis and got a free 7 night cruise for 2 from NCL last month. Only need to pay taxes. Going on the Gem to NE this fall and very much looking forward to it. Here I come for that lobster roll and do expect to pay $ 20 unless NCL serves it on board. Just wishful thinking :).

 

 

By no means am I a high-stakes player but in 2010 I won an all expense paid cruise through Norwegian and our local casino, it included airfare port fees and taxes etc. the only thing it didn't include was the mandatory tipping it also included a drink card for my guest and myself through the casino I guess I played enough that they wanted me back I wasn't able to go in 2011. Norwegian sent me a certificate I think it was cruise waves Casinos at sea and I booked for 2012. And then again in 2013 and then my son and I both received a certificate from the local casino stating if we showed up this night everybody got a free cruise well you know what everybody did so we're booked for November of this year and then guess what I got another cruise wave certificate from Norwegian that stated if I booked before a certain date I would get a free cabin and I'm no dummy I booked so my daughter and I will be on the getaway Halloween of 2015 and this time we get a balcony all of the others have been Oceanview the one this year is an obstructed Oceanview and of course we have to pay the port fees and taxes mandatory tipping and transportation to the designated port city but my goodness is this fun I had never been on a cruise before 2010 and my daughter took her first cruise last year she will continue to be my cruise buddy as long as the offers keep coming I know one day there going to stop but I know we're covered through 2015 but yippie Carribbean here we come it's like two cruising for the price of one

 

 

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[Va. Plumber]

If I am not mistaken, the buffet usually has sushi on the line.

 

Not a great selection, but it is sushi.

[Rottweiler Puppy]

It's a bit frustrating when someone posts a rant like that on here where there are people who can help, but they never check back.

 

If people would understand that CC is a place for information and not just a place to gripe, their lives (and cruises) would be a lot better.

 

Many times the responses are just as irrational, emotional and many times, more nasty than the OP allegedly was. No wonder many never come back.

 

I will say, this board is much friendlier on average than some others. Most responses were empathetic and offered good info, only a minor handful were emotionally affected enough to return venom.

Edited July 11, 2014 by Rottweiler Puppy

[cruise_alot123]

I LOVE that place. Was there yesterday for the first time. So clean, not smokey and great dim sum.

 

I'll have to sign up,for their players club and also start playing high stakes cards!,,

 

Pdiddywife

 

And this is not a pro or con smoking statement. Just an observation!

 

Great place with non-smoking not only for gambling but also we have a mega mall right next to the casino. The dim sum place just opened two weeks ago and if you get a player card, you get a free buffets. Yep, I've been playing poker there for almost a year now and never have to pay for my meals. Btw, I'll be there tomorrow around 2 PM playing high stake PLO poker with a minimum 5k to sit down so come and join me.

[cruise_alot123]

By no means am I a high-stakes player but in 2010 I won an all expense paid cruise through Norwegian and our local casino, it included airfare port fees and taxes etc. the only thing it didn't include was the mandatory tipping it also included a drink card for my guest and myself through the casino I guess I played enough that they wanted me back I wasn't able to go in 2011. Norwegian sent me a certificate I think it was cruise waves Casinos at sea and I booked for 2012. And then again in 2013 and then my son and I both received a certificate from the local casino stating if we showed up this night everybody got a free cruise well you know what everybody did so we're booked for November of this year and then guess what I got another cruise wave certificate from Norwegian that stated if I booked before a certain date I would get a free cabin and I'm no dummy I booked so my daughter and I will be on the getaway Halloween of 2015 and this time we get a balcony all of the others have been Oceanview the one this year is an obstructed Oceanview and of course we have to pay the port fees and taxes mandatory tipping and transportation to the designated port city but my goodness is this fun I had never been on a cruise before 2010 and my daughter took her first cruise last year she will continue to be my cruise buddy as long as the offers keep coming I know one day there going to stop but I know we're covered through 2015 but yippie Carribbean here we come it's like two cruising for the price of one

 

 

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I got the free cruise certificate last month and must book by 8/15 and complete the cruise by June 2015. Maryland Live casino is a partner of NCL and they gave out at least 1000 cruises last month. Not only I got a free cruise but also free drinks when on board. Yep, just pay port fees and taxes and we prefer Canada since we were just off the Breakaway in March to the Bahamas.

[againin13]

[quote=cruise_ i'm not sure if the Cherokee Casino in solemn Springs Arkansas is a partner of NCL but I do know that the two that were given away by the casino wereNCL cruises and there was an NCL cruise line representative at the event. have a wonderful time

 

 

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[Annmeat]

Great place with non-smoking not only for gambling but also we have a mega mall right next to the casino. The dim sum place just opened two weeks ago and if you get a player card, you get a free buffets. Yep, I've been playing poker there for almost a year now and never have to pay for my meals. Btw, I'll be there tomorrow around 2 PM playing high stake PLO poker with a minimum 5k to sit down so come and join me.

 

Well, I may come, too. Need to get in to practice for next week on Getaway!

Is it only poker or do the other tables games get you status, so to speak?

 

This is the casino right off of 295 - as though I were heading to National Harbor from BWI? DH and I are tired of the Hollywood Casino at Penn aNational.

I am right on the Mason-Dixon Line.

 

Question I actually was going to ask- can you book a casino thru CAS only if you have been comped?or do they have special prices for different tiers of players?

 

I really mostly would just like a drink card ....

 

Ann