Can't bring soda on board anymore

[FM]

Ha ha ha. Can you imagine? 100 jokers speaking all at the same time, debating each other even the ones they agree with. I am fairly certain Robert's Rules of Order are not being followed. More similar to our ridiculous presidential debates in the US.

 

We get CNN up here in Canada ... so it is with disbelief to watch people rudely interrupting or talking over each other ... and the name-calling and mud-slinging ... and the denigrating of people who hold public office or who choose to pursue a career in public-service ... because each side doesn't respect the other's position. It's one thing to see "similar" behavior on-line via forums, it's another to watch it live on National TV. I am just perplexed ... what kind of example is being set for the younger generation and for society as a whole? Unfortunately up here, we are not immune to any of that at all ... :( ... just my opinion and my 2 cents (oops - wait, we got rid of the penny up here in Canada!) ... ;)

[chisox021]

We are in receipt of your email in regards to our new policy of not being able to bring bottled water onboard. It is indeed correct that we no longer allow water bottles, juice, liquor onboard. There are exceptions to this rule as with medical needs and the like. Attached please refer to the link on our website that will give you detailed information.

 

https://www.ncl.com/faq#can-i-bring-water-or-soda-board

 

We thank you for understanding.

 

Sincerely,

Lourdes Sayus | Executive Office/ Resolution Specialist

1-800-456-7298 | ext 26278

Norwegian Cruise Line ®

7665 Corporate Center Drive | Miami FL 33126

 

So, reading btwn the lines, they don't care what one or 1,000's of people complain about... Maybe we should start blowing up their phone with complaints... Btw, I never asked about liquor, so their email sounds like one that will be sent to everyone...

 

 

Here's the thing.. it's not so much the money for me.. it's that I'm really picky about the water I drink and the juice I drink. I only drink Mountain Valley Water. I only drink organic juice. The stuff they serve is reconstituted juice mixed with lots of chemicals.

 

If it doesn't matter to you, then fine. Your choice. But it matters to me. Bottled water isn't all the same. Some is tap water served in bottles. Some is filtered water served in bottles. Mountain Valley is spring water. I don't trust the other water.

 

I urge those of you who it matters to-- to call, snail mail, and e-mail them to complain. Vote with your feet. That's what I'm doing. I'm a long time Latitude's member, but this is just unacceptable. I'm no longer going to take Norwegian Cruises because I literally will have nothing to drink on board. Please don't just complain on this board, take action.

 

And btw... the news has hit a number of media outlets including USA Today.

Edited July 7, 2016 by chisox021

[Forewatch]

Thanks for taking action Chisox. Can you please provide me with the e-mail address you used? I'd like to write an e-mail as well, and I'm going to share it on my Facebook page. This is just disgraceful.

[chisox021]

Here you go.. Two people I emailed....

 

vewart@ncl.com

AMoris@ncl.com

 

let's hope we can fix this problem.. I sail on the 23rd, and have a case of water ready to go....

 

BTW, this is my email:

 

To whom it may concern,

 

I would like to voice my displeasure on your new policy on bringing bottled beverages on your ships. I have sailed it the past and have always brought on a case of bottled water, as it's very convenient for me and my family.

 

I am due to sail on 23​ July, and I know I speak of many, many other people who also feel this is not a good change for NCL. Security etc., isn't a very good reason for this change..... Additionally, you still charge upwards of $40.00 for a 12-pack of water, and that sir, if absurd.

 

You will be able to use "Security" as the reason for this change if you lower your prices, dramatically, for bottled water. You are out to make money, and I think every cruiser understands that, but please don't grossly overcharge for water - as it's a great convenience for all who cruise.

 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

 

Thanks for taking action Chisox. Can you please provide me with the e-mail address you used? I'd like to write an e-mail as well, and I'm going to share it on my Facebook page. This is just disgraceful.

Edited July 7, 2016 by chisox021
forgot to include things...

[Forewatch]

Thanks, Chisox. I'm sorry this is taking place on your cruise. I was going to book one on Norwegian this fall, but I have changed my mind because I literally have nothing that I will drink on board. I only drink my brand of bottled water and organic juice. I don't drink alcohol at all or soda. I literally cannot sail with them under these circumstances.

 

I think the only way Norwegian will change their policy is if they're hit in the wallet. I understand you're already booked, but I do hope others who have not booked, find another cruise line.

 

I'm glad the media is picking up on this story. I hope people let their feelings know on the comments section of these media stories.

 

Thanks for the e-mail address. I will send something off to them. I'm also planning on writing a good-old-fashioned snail-mail letter to the president. I think snail mail can have more of an impact. Everyone, please stay vigilent.

[mking8288]

20 oz Aquafina is $3.25, liter Aquafina is $5.50. (As of June 2016).

So, it appeared in one of the other posts, NCL apparently lowering their 20 oz. bottled water to $2.50 + 18% and the 1 liter to $4.50 + 18% ... pending further confirmation.

 

This is, still, price gouging when a case of 24 bottled water retailed in NYC for about $3 + deposit + tax. Feel free to disagree, if supermarket can make a profit selling them at those prices, as a business ... so can NCL.

 

Bolding below NCL "no longer allow water bottles"

We are in receipt of your email in regards to our new policy of not being able to bring bottled water onboard. It is indeed correct that we no longer allow water bottles, juice, liquor onboard. There are exceptions to this rule as with medical needs and the like ...

 

Btw, I never asked about liquor, so their email sounds like one that will be sent to everyone...

Chisox021 - much obliged for sharing the reply ;)

 

Let me get this straight, they are selling bottled waters at highly inflated and disgusting prices onboard + 18%. Plus, NCL will ban/prohibit the "possession" and use of empty/used water bottles & tumblers, etc. etc. - how, bottle policing at the beverage stations and security sweeps for all the staterooms.

 

What a joke, LOL - except, this isn't funny. This is really, really a sad day. No problem, cheerleaders will continue to advocate drinking fresh tap water out of the faucet in the privacy of their own toilet room a/k/a bathroom - just don't forget to bring your sani-wipes and diluted 40:1 bleach solution to clean & disinfect.

 

Next up over the horizon for consideration, NCL's newly proposed 3-1-1 rules, for everyone's safety, security & for "your convenience". Start leaving those shampoos & conditioner at home or surrender them at the security checkpoint - ya all know the drills, just like TSA at the airport cause someone is going to smuggle 16 oz. of water, juice & soda or other liquid past them. Just kidding - but, hey, I'm pretty good in playing fortune teller.

[Sissaaaaaa]

So, it appeared in one of the other posts, NCL apparently lowering their 20 oz. bottled water to $2.50 + 18% and the 1 liter to $4.50 + 18% ... pending further confirmation.

 

This is, still, price gouging when a case of 24 bottled water retailed in NYC for about $3 + deposit + tax. Feel free to disagree, if supermarket can make a profit selling them at those prices, as a business ... so can NCL.

 

Bolding below NCL "no longer allow water bottles"

 

Chisox021 - much obliged for sharing the reply ;)

 

Let me get this straight, they are selling bottled waters at highly inflated and disgusting prices onboard + 18%. Plus, NCL will ban/prohibit the "possession" and use of empty/used water bottles & tumblers, etc. etc. - how, bottle policing at the beverage stations and security sweeps for all the staterooms.

 

 

How is this price gouging??? I pay the exact same amount at the movie theater, more at the airport. If NCL is indeed lowering their prices to the above stated amounts, then there should be no issue at all here.

[chisox021]

MKing, you're welcome..... Even if they do lower their prices of their 20oz and 1 liters, it's still grossly overpriced - and yes, you can get a case of water (which is usually 36 bottles) at Costco, BJs, etc., for less than 5 bucks... And they make money in doing so.... So, the question is, why can't NCL sell theirs at a reasonable price - and still make a ton of money as well? ?

 

This is my 2nd cruise with NCL and I brought a case of water last time... Very convenient. If the change their rules about that, I am all for it, but make changes reasonably - not abrupt. I think 99% of the issue here is the price per water - not that you can't bring it anymore. Make it reasonable, and people will not complain... Plus, you don't have to lug the case of water with you! Lol. Even if the case of water was 20ish bucks, that's still a 300% markup for them..... And I think nobody would have an issue paying that for 24 bottles of water.... But everyone has an issue paying $40 for 12 bottles....

 

NCL.. All we ask is for equality...

 

So, it appeared in one of the other posts, NCL apparently lowering their 20 oz. bottled water to $2.50 + 18% and the 1 liter to $4.50 + 18% ... pending further confirmation.

 

This is, still, price gouging when a case of 24 bottled water retailed in NYC for about $3 + deposit + tax. Feel free to disagree, if supermarket can make a profit selling them at those prices, as a business ... so can NCL.

 

Bolding below NCL "no longer allow water bottles"

 

Chisox021 - much obliged for sharing the reply ;)

 

Let me get this straight, they are selling bottled waters at highly inflated and disgusting prices onboard + 18%. Plus, NCL will ban/prohibit the "possession" and use of empty/used water bottles & tumblers, etc. etc. - how, bottle policing at the beverage stations and security sweeps for all the staterooms.

 

What a joke, LOL - except, this isn't funny. This is really, really a sad day. No problem, cheerleaders will continue to advocate drinking fresh tap water out of the faucet in the privacy of their own toilet room a/k/a bathroom - just don't forget to bring your sani-wipes and diluted 40:1 bleach solution to clean & disinfect.

 

Next up over the horizon for consideration, NCL's newly proposed 3-1-1 rules, for everyone's safety, security & for "your convenience". Start leaving those shampoos & conditioner at home or surrender them at the security checkpoint - ya all know the drills, just like TSA at the airport cause someone is going to smuggle 16 oz. of water, juice & soda or other liquid past them. Just kidding - but, hey, I'm pretty good in playing fortune teller.

[Hunwolf]

Received a call from NCL today notifying me of the change. The rep on the phone said they were exploring options and changes to their existing beverage packages but no decisions had been made.

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[chisox021]

Sisssssssssaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.. I agree with you here. But you also don't pay a rediculous 18% tip at theaters, airports, etc.. for water... And except for going thru the security check points, I've never been told no to bringing in my own water...

 

How is this price gouging??? I pay the exact same amount at the movie theater, more at the airport. If NCL is indeed lowering their prices to the above stated amounts, then there should be no issue at all here.

[Sissaaaaaa]

Sisssssssssaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.. I agree with you here. But you also don't pay a rediculous 18% tip at theaters, airports, etc.. for water... And except for going thru the security check points, I've never been told no to bringing in my own water...

 

I agree 100% about the 18% gratuity. It should not be applied, but that is something they have done from the get-go, unfortunately.

[NLH Arizona]

How is this price gouging??? I pay the exact same amount at the movie theater, more at the airport. If NCL is indeed lowering their prices to the above stated amounts, then there should be no issue at all here.

You are correct, it is not price gouging. I pay more, than what I can pay at home, for a lot of things when I travel. I can buy a Diet Coke for less than $.50 and I pay $2 or more for one at a hotel and you know they get it for a lot less than what I pay for it. Last time I bought a bottle of water (small one, not a liter) at the airport, it was $5.

[SteveH2508]

Sincerely,

Lourdes Sayus | Executive Office/ Resolution Specialist

1-800-456-7298 | ext 26278

Norwegian Cruise Line ®

7665 Corporate Center Drive | Miami FL 33126

 

Did anyone else notice the irony in this person's name? (if it is a real name)

 

Implication is of holy, curative water that we tell you - or am I doing too many cryptic crosswords?:rolleyes:

[Frick_&_Frack]

You are correct, it is not price gouging. I pay more, than what I can pay at home, for a lot of things when I travel. I can buy a Diet Coke for less than $.50 and I pay $2 or more for one at a hotel and you know they get it for a lot less than what I pay for it. Last time I bought a bottle of water (small one, not a liter) at the airport, it was $5.

 

I think part of the issue people may be having is that, with the example of a theater or an airport, you are using the area for a limited period of time. On a ship, you are "living" therefore a week (or more). So, it adds up significantly then.

 

So, if NCL adjusts the pricing, hopefully many will benefit.

 

Me, well, no horse in the "water" issue (but a heck of a time with no reasonable allowance to bring regular Coca-Cola aboard) :D

[dna529]

For those that are doubtful that something might change- it wasn't too long ago when the new policy of not being allowed to take food back to the cabin was done away with after guest complaints :)

[Frick_&_Frack]

For those that are doubtful that something might change- it wasn't too long ago when the new policy of not being allowed to take food back to the cabin was done away with after guest complaints :)

 

That one was almost impossible to enforce (and, honestly, made the ship police it - and that causes friction aboard a vessel). This policy is easy to enforce (since it is done when boarding). ;)

[aenglish1609]

I can't believe people are losing their minds over this, and talking about switching to other cruise lines.

 

Like Billy Currington said: God is great, beer is good, and people are CRAZY!

[sparks1093]

I can't believe people are losing their minds over this, and talking about switching to other cruise lines.

 

Like Billy Currington said: God is great, beer is good, and people are CRAZY!

 

It's just a straw until the camel's back breaks. For many this is that straw.

[Forewatch]

I can't believe people are losing their minds over this, and talking about switching to other cruise lines.

 

Like Billy Currington said: God is great, beer is good, and people are CRAZY!

 

Well, in my case, it's a matter of literally having nothing on board to drink. I don't drink beer, wine or any alcohol. I don't drink soda. I don't drink tap water. I only drink one particular brand of water that comes in glass bottles because I don't trust the other brands. And, I only drink organic juice.

 

This never was a problem, because I used to pack liter bottles of water in my suitcases, as well as organic juice in juice boxes.

 

It is what I choose to put in my body. NCL is taking away my choice.

[chisox021]

This must not directly effect you, and you are entitled to your opinion as well as everyone else is..

 

But, let's say, for argument sake, if you weren't allowed to bring on your own toilet paper, and you ONLY use soft, cushiony 2-ply on your tooshie, but they only offer sand paper type 1 ply for free in your room, but WILL sell you your cushionly 2-ply on board for $40 bucks a roll... I bet you and your tooshie would be steamin' like we are about their water rules....

 

I can't believe people are losing their minds over this, and talking about switching to other cruise lines.

 

Like Billy Currington said: God is great, beer is good, and people are CRAZY!

Edited July 7, 2016 by chisox021

[jlat]

Do you actually believe what you post or is it just an amusing diversion ?

So just to feed the troll , what if a single movie theater charged significantly more for snacks then all the others ? Oh and you weren't allowed to keep your empty bottle . Plus there was a fee for disposing of this bottle which was instituted after you had bought your ticket that you were not told about . Plus you were told it was for your convenience .

 

Ya Ya - You'd say " no issue at all here " .

 

Dude that seriously wasn't called for. No need to be that sour. This isn't the end of the world. OP is entitled to post their opinion, as are you (many times now). No need to get personal.

[Newfun4me]

I received a call from Annette in the Resolution department today. She was responding to the email below. She said they are getting calls and keeping track of the feedback for senior leadership. I don't hold out any hope of change, but I shared with them that this situation will factor in when we are thinking about future vacation plans.

 

Hi Mrs. Ewart,

 

I booked our family’s first NCL cruise earlier this year - in part because of the itinerary and in part because of the positive things I heard about NCL. We went on another cruise years ago and didn’t like the “cattle call” feel of it, so we have stuck to land resorts. We decided to give it another try this year. My husband is a Coke Zero fan and a Red Bull and Vodka fan. I am a bottled water fan. I reviewed the information on NCL and saw that we could bring on Coke Zero and bottled water, among other things that went into our decision making process. We have spent upward of $14,000 for two suites and I can tell you that the new policy is incredibly frustrating to me. Had we known of this policy, we likely would have chosen another cruise line (or just decided to stick to a resort where we can make our own choices). That may seem crazy to you, but my husband is a soda drinker and hates Pepsi products. So… here we are. A month from our sailing date and my husband will not have his morning Coke Zero.

 

I strongly recommend changing your policy. You say it’s for security. Fine. Don’t let people bring on bottles, but let them bring on cans. Also, I looked at the price of the bottled water and it's quite high. From what I understand, Carnival implemented a similar policy (although they still allow people to bring on cans) but they decreased their price of bottled water to something reasonable. I suggest you do the same. People have choices - a lot of them. I spend quite a bit of time on the cruise critic boards and I would recommend you check out what’s being said. You are losing customers at a time when it looks like you really can’t afford to.

Edited July 7, 2016 by Newfun4me

[sjlocke]

This is the kind of thing that makes me think my go-to DCL isn't as overpriced as I was coming to think it was. Not that I ever brought soda or water on board, but I can see the way it is going.

[aenglish1609]

Well, in my case, it's a matter of literally having nothing on board to drink. I don't drink beer, wine or any alcohol. I don't drink soda. I don't drink tap water. I only drink one particular brand of water that comes in glass bottles because I don't trust the other brands. And, I only drink organic juice.

 

This never was a problem, because I used to pack liter bottles of water in my suitcases, as well as organic juice in juice boxes.

 

It is what I choose to put in my body. NCL is taking away my choice.

 

 

 

That's fine for you, I just find it to be ridiculous to change because of bottled water. Tap water is perfectly fine.

 

I don't see it as NCL taking away your choice, you are choosing not to drink what they have available on board.

[aenglish1609]

This must not directly effect you, and you are entitled to your opinion as well as everyone else is..

 

But, let's say, for argument sake, if you weren't allowed to bring on your own toilet paper, and you ONLY use soft, cushiony 2-ply on your tooshie, but they only offer sand paper type 1 ply for free in your room, but WILL sell you your cushionly 2-ply on board for $40 bucks a roll... I bet you and your tooshie would be steamin' like we are about their water rules....

 

 

I'm not picky about TP either.