Need to find new cruise line

[CptSticky]

We all have a bad cruise from time to time (I know, some say there is no such thing). Who knows why. It could be all the crews fault or maybe we came aboard with issues (our last cruise was just a couple of days after the DD got out of the hospital. Really couldn't focus on the cruise). I have gotten upset with Royal's policies and take back's. I have threatened and actually gone and sailed other cruise lines. Guess what, the grass wasn't greener and I'm back here. I think all cruising isn't what it was but maybe that's my age showing because it seems like nothing else is either. As far as the basics of the actual cruise vs one cruise line or another, probably not that much difference. The big difference for me is what is included at my C&A level (I know this doesn't apply to all people due to lack of points). I usually tell novice cruisers to sail a ship that goes where they want but if they are truly going to cruise a lot then look hard at what is offered at upper levels.

[bigeagle12]

I agree with OP .. service and food quality going down hill .. up-charging and alcohol prices ridiculous.

 

We are late 50's/early 60's very active. Have found Princess to be our favorite. Just took our first Carnival this year and was really impressed .. getting ready to book our 2nd for October.

 

We also enjoyed Celebrity .. Great service .. Murano's was the best speciality restaurant we have experienced. Just felt overall atmosphere was a little to "mature" for our taste.

 

We prefer to cruise while kids are in school so we avoid over-crowded and rowdy cruises.

 

My wife and I are seriously thinking that our New Years cruise may be our last on Royal.

[Biker19]

Carnival

Princess

HAL

Costa

MSC

NCL

Aida

Cunard

P&O

Seabourn

Windstar

Crystal

Star Cruises

Silversea

Regent

Disney

Oceania

Saga

 

Is this like an SAT question where you are asked to pick which one doesn't belong? Saga, really? A two dinghy operation (whose ships are 30+ years old) as a suggestion for someone off the Liberty?:cool::rolleyes:;):eek:

Edited July 26, 2015 by Biker19

[barbon2]

Going on the Liberty in a few weeks.

I believe it's okay that the OP was unhappy, but by listing her concerns/problems it would help others who are planning to sail the Liberty or are in the booking stages.

I for one don't like when people become defensive because someone did not care for their cruise, however, without examples, there is no way for anyone to know the problem or for Royal to correct it.

 

Barb

[WrittenOnYourHeart]

Carnival

Princess

HAL

Costa

MSC

NCL

Aida

Cunard

P&O

Seabourn

Windstar

Crystal

Star Cruises

Silversea

Regent

Disney

Oceania

Saga

 

Hope this helps as a start.

 

If smoking bugs them, I'd take HAL (aka the ashtray of the seas) off the list. Not only is their OPEN (as in NO doors on either side to enclose it - at least on the ms Westerdam it's that way and DISGUSTING anywhere close to the casino even when it's not operating) casino smoking, their balconies are still smoking permitted. That's not the only reason I'll never sail them again, but it's one of the main ones.

Edited July 26, 2015 by WrittenOnYourHeart

[BonTexasNY]

I too would like to know the particulars. Maybe the OP regretted what they didn't have rather than savor what they did have :rolleyes: Unfortunately, "lacks everything" makes it sound like they had nothing. :confused:

[matt'smom]

Here are specifics

1. Took the time to email dining about table and was put at a table that was in the dark almost in kitchen (could actually see into it). After much complaining finally going to the head of dining services was moved to a different table.

2. Waiter and assistant could not get orders right and we were continuously last tables(all of theirs) finished. Never remembered names nor stupid things like ice tea and coffee(that had always been case in the past).

3. Dinner was like eating in chain restaurant, quality and selection was always better.

4. Events that were popular were held in small places so people were forced to stand, sit on floor or leave.

5. Now that there are drink packages there seem to be less bartenders especially on pool deck.

6. Windjammer tables are not being cleaned nor is there waiters with drinks.

7. As diamond member we used to get more perks ie galley tours that you now pay for.

8. Age old problem of not enough chairs on pool decks which was particularly a problem on this trip which had 3 ship days.

9. It at times feel like you're sailing a flea market with all the "sales".

 

I guess I have seen RCCL when it was less like carnival. For those that have been on Celebrity are they following RCCL or are they still a step above(we have sailed Celebrity,princess and costa also)

[Jenhem31]

More details would help.

I sailed Liberty and the only problem we had was lack of bar service ship wide. It did not ruin our cruise.

[kalliekae]

Sometimes a multitude of things happen that can cause a difficult cruise. We were on a HAL Baltic cruise in 2003 and several things happened including a fire on the ship that caused us to lose our last port, but it was still one of our favorite cruises for the ports we visited. The ship needed retiring and it was a year later. We have since sailed HAL and enjoyed wonderful cruises. We have always had WOW cruises on RCCL. I'm sorry the OP had a bad cruise, but I refuse to lump all of RCCL cruises into the "bad" category. However, there are plenty of other cruise lines out there for him/her to try and hopefully find something they like better.

[CVU]

We all have a bad cruise from time to time (I know, some say there is no such thing). Who knows why. It could be all the crews fault or maybe we came aboard with issues (our last cruise was just a couple of days after the DD got out of the hospital. Really couldn't focus on the cruise). I have gotten upset with Royal's policies and take back's. I have threatened and actually gone and sailed other cruise lines. Guess what, the grass wasn't greener and I'm back here. I think all cruising isn't what it was but maybe that's my age showing because it seems like nothing else is either. As far as the basics of the actual cruise vs one cruise line or another, probably not that much difference. The big difference for me is what is included at my C&A level (I know this doesn't apply to all people due to lack of points). I usually tell novice cruisers to sail a ship that goes where they want but if they are truly going to cruise a lot then look hard at what is offered at upper levels.

Very well said. :)

We have had some not so great cruises for whatever reason, but we carried on and tried to get over whatever it was. If it was plumbing, then that could be another story.:eek::D

 

Some may need to try other lines to compare.

[Langley Cruisers]

I don't think anything anyone here says will pacify you at this point *shrug*. Only you can make the decision to try something else/new. Your dollars speak the loudest so take your business elsewhere. That is absolutely your right as a consumer.

[ssb]

Been cruising for 26 years most on RCCL and cannot believe the lack of everything . And yes the smoking in casino took over 4th floor and parts of the 5th

 

Please tell us more so don't make same mistake ?????

[Lilyrosemum]

We love the Liberty. We have two cruises booked on her in early 2016.

 

We cruise Royal often, at least 3 weeks a year. This is what we do to avoid inferior service:

 

We buy the drink package so the prices don't shock us. We order what we want and don't worry as we have already paid in full. As far as bar service we tip extra starting the first day. You would be amazed at what a few dollars here and there can do for the service you receive. Very much worth it to us, we never have any problem getting served.

 

The food is not as good as it used to be years ago. But it is what it is. The main dining room servers have more tables now than years ago. But we have still received good service in the dining room. A good attitude and a smile on the part of the guests can go a long way too.

 

There are specialty restaurants as an alternative if you don't like the food. Yes, there is an additional charge but the food is better.

 

The price of the actual cruise fare is still relatively inexpensive as far as travel costs go. If you are willing to pay more, you can upgrade your experience. It is your choice.

 

We have booked our first Celebrity cruise for next month. I am curious to see if there is much difference.

 

To the OP, it sounds like it is time to try another cruise line. Or an all inclusive land vacation. Get away from Royal and see what else is out there. Don't set your sights too high, put a smile on your face and buy the drink package. Bon Voyage!

[klingoncruiser]

FWIW... I have been having really good results with Norwegian the last few years. I have also about been run off from RCL as well. I feel your pain. NO cruise line is perfect, but this has become truly sad what has happened to RCL. :rolleyes:

[SteelMagnolia9]

Here are specifics

As diamond member

 

MSC is currently offering a loyalty match for individuals new to the cruise line. As you are diamond, perhaps this would be an opportunity to try a different cruise line, while still receiving some benefits.

 

Best to you!

[ssb]

MSC is currently offering a loyalty match for individuals new to the cruise line. As you are diamond, perhaps this would be an opportunity to try a different cruise line, while still receiving some benefits.

 

Best to you!

 

I have sailed MSC Orchestra before and Royalty Match is good to know.

Eventhough we are Royalists Plus we would consider match for sure for a change!

[BonTexasNY]

Here are specifics

1. Took the time to email dining about table and was put at a table that was in the dark almost in kitchen (could actually see into it). After much complaining finally going to the head of dining services was moved to a different table.

2. Waiter and assistant could not get orders right and we were continuously last tables(all of theirs) finished. Never remembered names nor stupid things like ice tea and coffee(that had always been case in the past).

3. Dinner was like eating in chain restaurant' date=' quality and selection was always better.

4. Events that were popular were held in small places so people were forced to stand, sit on floor or leave.

5. Now that there are drink packages there seem to be less bartenders especially on pool deck.

6. Windjammer tables are not being cleaned nor is there waiters with drinks.

7. As diamond member we used to get more perks ie galley tours that you now pay for.

8. Age old problem of not enough chairs on pool decks which was particularly a problem on this trip which had 3 ship days.

9. It at times feel like you're sailing a flea market with all the "sales".

 

I guess I have seen RCCL when it was less like carnival. For those that have been on Celebrity are they following RCCL or are they still a step above(we have sailed Celebrity,princess and costa also)[/quote']

 

Thank you for listing the issues you encountered. Unfortunately, most of them are prevalent on other cruise lines. However, food in the dining room should be served promptly and correctly. After a few kind words with the head waiter, the issue should have been resolved at the beginning of your cruise.

 

I always assume that when sending an email request to rccldining, that it might not be accommodated.

 

I also hate the flea market table sales in the Royal Promenade but then based on the crowds it attracts, it does seem very popular.

 

Have smooth and happy sails with whatever cruise line you choose in the future.

[CaribSailor]

Give Princess a try.. We sailed princess multiple times before having our son and after this next cruise at the end of August with RC we are headed back. Our last 6 cruises over the last 3 years have been with RC and we just find them stale at this point. Same itineraries and after going on Oasis a bunch we are over it and want the actual cruise experience back rather than the floating resort/mall. Suites are much nicer on princess as well and the food there is no competition. Entertainment wise they are about the same. BTW we are in our late 30s early 40s. Pricing is better as well.

[CaribSailor]

Give Princess a try.. We sailed princess multiple times before having our son and after this next cruise at the end of August with RC we are headed back. Our last 6 cruises over the last 3 years have been with RC and we just find them stale at this point. Same itineraries and after going on Oasis a bunch we are over it and want the actual cruise experience back rather than the floating resort/mall. Suites are much nicer on princess as well and the food there is no competition. Entertainment wise they are about the same. BTW we are in our late 30s early 40s. Pricing is better as well.

 

 

Our last cruise with RC on Oasis was the worst cruise we have been on all around on any of the lines we have been on over the last 15 years.

Edited July 27, 2015 by CaribSailor

[MrsMcIB]

Sauvichick, After sailing on both the Oasis and the Allure ( with you last summer), I am a little bit concerned about my April 2016 cruise on the IOS. I absolutely love Central Park day and night, Park Café and the Solarium Café, so am having to mentally prepare myself for not having these. That said, I am beyond excited about our Nov 2016 cruise on Harmony of the Sea's. Thank goodness educators get a week-off at Thanks Giving.

 

I haven't been on the Oasis or the Allure, nor the Quantum for that matter. Freedom OS was the last and we loved it. I'd better not take the bigger ships or I may never want to go back to small. :)

[Out to sea!]

Just got off liberty and am done with RCCL terrible food and service' date=' ,etc. Any suggestions?[/quote']

 

Try the Conquest class of Carnival ships (Conquest, Liberty, Glory, and Valor). My favorite class of ship on any cruise line.

[rjrice1]

We have sailed on many lines as well..

RCCl 13x's

Carnival 6x's

Princess 6x's

MSC (once was enough)

All of them has their pro's and con's.

 

Not sailing RCCL in a long time we decided to book a cruise out of San Juan..

I can see where the OP is coming from.. lots of cut backs (just like anything else).

We also did a cruise with Carnival out of San Juan... to me the price was better, same islands too. They seem to have more to offer.

Don't charge you in advance to do "your time" dining.

Always offer a nice grill when returning from an excursion..

RCCL didn't have that.

Princess was more for "adults" and love their coffee bar.. better sandwich and selection vs RCCL in Cafe..

MSC... went once and will not do it again.. very very clean ship.

However... it is what you make out of your cruise... I would rather be cruising than spending a day at work.

[cjdixon4]

Here are specifics

1. Took the time to email dining about table and was put at a table that was in the dark almost in kitchen (could actually see into it). After much complaining finally going to the head of dining services was moved to a different table.

2. Waiter and assistant could not get orders right and we were continuously last tables(all of theirs) finished. Never remembered names nor stupid things like ice tea and coffee(that had always been case in the past).

3. Dinner was like eating in chain restaurant' date=' quality and selection was always better.

4. Events that were popular were held in small places so people were forced to stand, sit on floor or leave.

5. Now that there are drink packages there seem to be less bartenders especially on pool deck.

6. Windjammer tables are not being cleaned nor is there waiters with drinks.

7. As diamond member we used to get more perks ie galley tours that you now pay for.

8. Age old problem of not enough chairs on pool decks which was particularly a problem on this trip which had 3 ship days.

9. It at times feel like you're sailing a flea market with all the "sales".

 

I guess I have seen RCCL when it was less like carnival. For those that have been on Celebrity are they following RCCL or are they still a step above(we have sailed Celebrity,princess and costa also)[/quote']

 

If you're a Diamond status, then clearly you are an experienced cruiser. You must know that no matter WHAT cruise line you select, all of the above problems that you indicated are likely to occur. It's hard to imagine that there wasn't some aspect of your cruise that you enjoyed; I can't help thinking that maybe there's something else going on that you aren't sharing. Whatever the case, best of luck finding a cruiseline that doesn't have similar issues.

[cj_one2000]

Why come on a Royal forum and ask that question especially when you don't give specifics?

 

 

I see someone else took the words out of my mouth already. lol

 

Some people just want to complain, say they had a horrible time. Exact same cruise, different family say they had the best cruise vacation ever. Oy.

 

I sure hope the OP finds a different line so us loyals to Royal don't have to share another cruise with such a negative Nancy. Of course, I wish the OP well in their search for a different line. ;)

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[sauvichick]

Sauvichick, After sailing on both the Oasis and the Allure ( with you last summer), I am a little bit concerned about my April 2016 cruise on the IOS. I absolutely love Central Park day and night, Park Café and the Solarium Café, so am having to mentally prepare myself for not having these. That said, I am beyond excited about our Nov 2016 cruise on Harmony of the Sea's. Thank goodness educators get a week-off at Thanks Giving.

 

I was a bit worried, took it with a grain of salt and realized I was right about about my fear. Our friends could not relate to the lack of dining options on the LOS v. the Allure. Central Park was my favorite deck too. This educator gets 3 weekdays off for Thanksgiving - first time ever.

 

 

 

 

I haven't been on the Oasis or the Allure, nor the Quantum for that matter. Freedom OS was the last and we loved it. I'd better not take the bigger ships or I may never want to go back to small. :)

 

So true. From what I've read many people love the Freedom Class ships. I would have been one of them if I didn't work my way up. Problem is I went straight to the top. I still have months before looking at Oasis or Quantum class ships and the itinerary they offer.

Edited July 27, 2015 by sauvichick