Can't bring soda on board anymore

[don't-use-real-name]

This being an election year I thought that WATERGATE was water over the dam !

But damn then NCL went overboard to new low levels of how to waterboard its cruising customers !

I would suppose that with this new policy you will not be permitted to take pool water back to your cabin for consumption oh yeah NCL tried to do that with food stuff !

So NCL; FDR and crew are now demonstrating the Extreme level of the Peter Principle ala Forrest Gump - "Stupid is what stupid does" rising to the next level of customer service !

NCL shoots ones self in the foot and then puts foot in mouth for encore !

[dexddd]

Does 'Abe3' have the day off work?

 

That is funny.

[steveknj]

I found the answer on MyNCL where you can purchase the soda package for $88.50. They do require everyone in the stateroom to purchase the package. Heaven forbid that two people share a soda!

 

Anyone know how much a can is from the cabin fridge?

 

My wife and I have the UBP, but my 17 year old daughter doesn't. Does this mean we ALL would have to buy the Soda package (even though two of us already have the UBP)? That makes no sense.

 

Anyway, this is the first time we've decided to bring our own soda and of course the policy hits the day of our cruise. So now I'll have to buy a soda package for my daughter as she refused to drink tea or lemonade. This stinks.

 

My question is, is this consistent with the policies of the other major cruise lines? I read that CCL lets you bring CANS of soda, but what about RCCL, X or HAL or some of the others?

[richstowe]

Well actually I bought my cruise next certs about 5 or 6 changes ago when IMHO Ncl was a better value and offered me more

 

For example....the ubp was free with no 18 % extra

 

The sdp was udp

 

Dsc was lower

 

No room service fee

 

I thinks that's it but may have left out something....

 

Regardless I bought the certs because at the time the product Ncl was better and more inclusive and cheaper....

 

Now not so much so my point is those certs are not getting me what was promised when I bought them

 

Doesn't mean I'm asking Ncl to refund them....it just means I'm probably not buying any more....definitely looking at celebrity and rccl....

 

Ncl is no longer my 1st choice that's all

 

What I am swing is that asking for a refund of previously purchased cruise next certs is a ....very valid...argument co side ring Ncl changed the rules after they were purchased

 

Bottom....cert holders are not getting what they thought they were sold

 

Posters will debate this and say it is a minor issue....and that is what Ncl hopes for....but really take off the blinders folks and dump the kool aid down the drain

 

 

Become a savvy proud knowledgeable consumer!!!!

That's it for now ! Who knows what other changes they will make by the time you use those certificates . Edited July 1, 2016 by richstowe

[jennburch]

Grateful my cruise is the 10th and probably will not nook ncl again unfortunately... This trip is costing me a bundle

Edited July 1, 2016 by jennburch

[kerryincork]

My wife and I have the UBP, but my 17 year old daughter doesn't. Does this mean we ALL would have to buy the Soda package (even though two of us already have the UBP)? That makes no sense.

 

Anyway, this is the first time we've decided to bring our own soda and of course the policy hits the day of our cruise. So now I'll have to buy a soda package for my daughter as she refused to drink tea or lemonade. This stinks.

 

My question is, is this consistent with the policies of the other major cruise lines? I read that CCL lets you bring CANS of soda, but what about RCCL, X or HAL or some of the others?

 

If you already have the UBP you don't have to get the soda package, soda is included in the UBP. So you can get the package just for your daughter.

[chisox021]

I think you're missing the point. Nobody would have an issue if NCL didn't upcharge things to a 10000% markup! 40 bucks for 12 waters is outrageous! I can buy a case of water (36 bottles) at BJs for less then 4 bucks.. You can't get one bottle of water for less than that with their 18% auto gratuity... and why the heck to you get 18% just for handing someone a bottle of water?

 

wow, so many responses already and the news just broke. I am not surprised that people are upset, but I have been expecting this for months if not years and I don't understand why people should expect to bring their own water and soda on board. The company. like most companies are in the business to make money and they have a beverage package for non alcohol consumers.

[luvtheships]

That's it for now ! Who knows what other changes they will make by the time you use those certificates .

 

 

Oh I'm sure they will make a few lol

 

Not sure what they could do though as we dont spend much on board anyway...

 

We just get on....sit on sun deck....enjoy mdr....free entertainment....sleep by 11...no casino....minimal alcohol...taxi to Carib beaches....private drivers for most Med ports....no room service

 

Some Ncl excursions at times but I've noticed...the prices significantly raised on one I took last cruise compared to now....so simple solution....taxi to beach instead and no Ncl excursion

Edited July 1, 2016 by luvtheships

[esm54687]

Well actually I bought my cruise next certs about 5 or 6 changes ago when IMHO Ncl was a better value and offered me more

 

While I do understand what you're saying....

- if you bought the CruiseNext certificates in 2008.... do you also expect to pay 2008 prices or is that cause for a refund?

- if your favorite ship is no longer cruising your favorite itinerary because it was when you bought the 5 pack... is that cause for a refund?

- sounds like you have used a couple CruiseNext certificates since buying the 5 pack.... did you refuse the promos that you received for that cruise because they weren't available when you originally bought the 5 pack?

- the wine choices have changed since you bought the 5 pack... is that cause for a refund?

- are you entitled to the DSC that was charged at the time you bought the original 5 pack?

 

if I bought a Best Buy gift card in 2013 and walk into the store today to use it..... do I expect them to pull up 2013 prices for that 52" TV?

 

You are entitled to your opinion and I am in no way saying you are wrong... I am just confused as to the application

[logan25]

The funny thing about this "I hate brand X" soft drink thing is that in most blind taste tests, most people do not correctly identify the brand of any of the drinks offered. :D

 

If you can't taste/tell the difference between Coke and Pepsi, you need to get your taste buds checked. Blind or otherwise, I can tell the difference.

[luvtheships]

While I do understand what you're saying....

 

- if you bought the CruiseNext certificates in 2008.... do you also expect to pay 2008 prices or is that cause for a refund?

 

- if your favorite ship is no longer cruising your favorite itinerary because it was when you bought the 5 pack... is that cause for a refund?

 

- sounds like you have used a couple CruiseNext certificates since buying the 5 pack.... did you refuse the promos that you received for that cruise because they weren't available when you originally bought the 5 pack?

 

- the wine choices have changed since you bought the 5 pack... is that cause for a refund?

 

- are you entitled to the DSC that was charged at the time you bought the original 5 pack?

 

 

 

if I bought a Best Buy gift card in 2013 and walk into the store today to use it..... do I expect them to pull up 2013 prices for that 52" TV?

 

 

 

You are entitled to your opinion and I am in no way saying you are wrong... I am just confused as to the application

 

 

What are you talking about buying the 5 pack?

 

Also I dont book on board

 

I only book cheapo cruises so it doesn't matter to me if a ship changes

 

My very valid point is that Ncl changes the rules at a whim and with respect to cruise certs...it makes them less valuable

 

I'm suggesting that it is a valid argument to get them refunded if you choose to not cruise Ncl in the future if you hold certs...

 

The product changed....a pax should be able to negotiate to refund the unused certs....

 

It's a valid argument....and that's what savvy consumers use when benefits are taken away

 

Try it...it works....

 

It's called negotiation...its works

 

It's also called not being a sheeple

 

If every cruise next holder asked for a refund because the Ncl product has changed for the worse since the certs were purchased...Ncl would listen

 

Again....savvy consumer....

Edited July 1, 2016 by luvtheships

[sparks1093]

I found the answer on MyNCL where you can purchase the soda package for $88.50. They do require everyone in the stateroom to purchase the package. Heaven forbid that two people share a soda!

 

Anyone know how much a can is from the cabin fridge?

 

I believe that's the price for the Ultimate Beverage Package that includes alcohol. They do sell a soda only package that has two price points, one for kids and one for adults. That package does not require everyone to buy it.

[steveknj]

 

if I bought a Best Buy gift card in 2013 and walk into the store today to use it..... do I expect them to pull up 2013 prices for that 52" TV?

 

Bad example. A 52" TV costs much less today than it did in 2013 :) I'm just sayin'

 

Just got the official email from NCL.

 

As your cruise approaches, we would like to inform you of a recent policy change effective July 15. The safety and security of our guests are always our top priority and to ensure a safe and enjoyable onboard environment for you, guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages on board our ships, either as carry-on or checked luggage.

 

Exceptions to this policy are purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula, and fully sealed and/or corked wine bottles for personal consumption onboard for guests 21 years of age or older and subject to screening and a corkage fee. Open beverages of any kind must be consumed or discarded at the security check-point, on embarkation day and at any port of call.

 

This revised policy brings the company in line with other best practice travel security protocols and reduces the need for individual time-consuming screening and package inspection of large volumes of beverages.

 

Thank you for your understanding, cooperation and compliance with this change, and we look forward to welcoming you on your cruise. More information on our beverage policy is available on our website at https://www.ncl.com/faq#what-to-bring.

 

Sincerely,

Norwegian Cruise Line

 

So I'm tempted to respond. If not allowing this for safety and security reasons, can you explain what those safety and security concerns are?

 

Just be honest about it please.

[$hip$hape]

My Coke-aholic husband is going to be veerrrry unhappy. Let's just say it will temper his excitement for any Norwegian booking.

Refresh me memory;

NCL only has Pepsi products?

 

Nothing worse than a Rum & Pepsi:(

[All-ready2cruise]

I believe that's the price for the Ultimate Beverage Package that includes alcohol. They do sell a soda only package that has two price points, one for kids and one for adults. That package does not require everyone to buy it.

 

The soda package for a 7 day cruise works out to $61.95USD

 

https://www.ncl.com/onboard-packages/beverage-packages

 

Adult & Teen Soda Program (ages 13 & older) $7.50 USD per person/day

Beverage Package

ITEM #: UBPTAS

 

 

Includes: Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mt. Dew, Ginger Ale, Tonic water, Club Soda. The entire cruise must be purchased. Non-Refundable.

 

Prepaid @ $7.50 USD per person per day x Cruise Days plus 18% gratuity and beverage service charge.

 

Souvenir Thermal mug included in the purchase of the program

 

An 18% gratuity and beverage service charge will be added at checkout.

[navybankerteacher]

For the past several years, we have had the promo UBP, both before and after the 18% was added. Once they started adding the 18%, it amounted to ... I don't even know. Less than $200 for two people. Big whoop. We would never walk away with a bar bill that low for an entire week. We are sailing over New Year's this year. Two balcony cabins are costing us $5,038, with the UBP and $100 obc for each cabin, plus an additional $50 shore excursion credit for each cabin. The cheapest by far of any cruise line sailing over NYE. We normally sail over spring break and usually spend half of that on two balcony cabins. We go to Disney world every few months and easily spend more there in a few days than we do on just one cabin fare alone for a cruise with NCL. I personally think the value with NCL is there. The NCL crew are the best at sea. We have no complaints about the food, in fact, the quality has increased. I could truly care less about the $1 gratuity they want to add to my $6 bottle of water. I would have left that on the bar for the bartender anyway. That's my take. We are all entitled to spend our $ as we wish. There are plenty of other lines if NCL if no longer for you. NCL made a lot of changes in a short period of time. Some good, some not so good; however, when you add it all up, it still is a better value (to me) than a different line. That's what it boils down to.

.

Of course, you have been a loyal NCL cruiser since 2009 - it might make sense to experience others before being certain that NCL is the best. I give them another try every few years, and each time I find them further below the others.

[disneygirl]

Just got the official email from NCL.

As your cruise approaches, we would like to inform you of a recent policy change effective July 15. The safety and security of our guests are always our top priority and to ensure a safe and enjoyable onboard environment for you, guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages on board our ships, either as carry-on or checked luggage.

 

Exceptions to this policy are purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula, and fully sealed and/or corked wine bottles for personal consumption onboard for guests 21 years of age or older and subject to screening and a corkage fee. Open beverages of any kind must be consumed or discarded at the security check-point, on embarkation day and at any port of call.

 

This revised policy brings the company in line with other best practice travel security protocols and reduces the need for individual time-consuming screening and package inspection of large volumes of beverages.

 

Thank you for your understanding, cooperation and compliance with this change, and we look forward to welcoming you on your cruise. More information on our beverage policy is available on our website at https://www.ncl.com/faq#what-to-bring.

 

Sincerely,

Norwegian Cruise Line

 

 

So I'm tempted to respond. If not allowing this for safety and security reasons, can you explain what those safety and security concerns are?

 

Just be honest about it please.

 

I think they are being very honest about it, this is truly a safety and security risk, they said it twice. Just like on the Airlines. If everyone is going to bring on containers and let's be honest many bring on bottles that are filled with Alcohol that are trying to beat the system and it has been happening for many years now. our world is changing and they have to protect their customers and their brand.

We live in a world where you do not know what can happen next and Cruise Ships hold thousands of people.......it is an absolutely horrible thought but they have to be aware and keep us safe.

So if they want to do that, then I am fine with it. Just like at the airports, keep me safe that is all I ask. You want me to take off everything but my bra and underwear so be it. I would rather be safe then sorry.

I know many may not feel the same way, but my two cents.

This is in the big picture of things.

Also a side note, I have been on over 30 cruises myself, almost every line. The "Tap" water on the ship IS purified water? I have never noticed a difference.

Edited July 1, 2016 by disneygirl

[princess di44]

No soda? Well, guess my time with Norwegian has ended....

 

 

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[DMH15]

Good for you.... and enjoy your Haven upgrade, etc.... This effects the money conscience people who can't afford the nicer things in life, that save for years for one nice vacation, that you can..... Cry others and NCL a river... If you can afford the finer things in life, you have no business bitching about being nickelled and dimed like the "Lower Tier" do. Enjoy your cruise....

 

 

What? That is baloney. I am a divorced woman in my 50's who travels in suites. But I am very frugal in my daily life. I do not use credit cards, I have an 11 year old vehicle that just turned 100k miles. I use coupons everywhere. I do not throw away money and I look for value everywhere.

 

There are many people in suites and the haven like me. We are not more rich or want to throw money away than someone who cruises in insides, more often, who buy new cars every two years.

[Fifty,fat,and frumpy]

I wonder if NCL is going to warn anyone with an upcoming sailing about the change in policy?

I sail on the 16th. Got the email this morning.

[LrgPizza]

I found the answer on MyNCL where you can purchase the soda package for $88.50. They do require everyone in the stateroom to purchase the package. Heaven forbid that two people share a soda!

 

Anyone know how much a can is from the cabin fridge?

If purchased on the ship, individuals can buy instead of the entire cabin. The online system makes everyone in the cabin buy it, but it's never been a policy or anything. By the way - how long is your cruise? The adult soda package on my upcoming 7 nighter is $61.95 including grats.

Edited July 1, 2016 by LrgPizza

[mom2tcdx2]

We are going on our first NCL cruise this Sunday. We have the UBP, but I don't like Pepsi (or coffee, tea, etc) and won't drink it so we are bringing 2 -12 packs of Diet Coke onboard for me to drink. Again, it's not a money thing, just the only way for me to get my Diet Coke on the ship. Looks like this will be our first and last cruise with them unless they start serving Coke products.

 

 

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I would be the opposite, I hate Coke products and I am a Mtn Dew drinker. One of the main reasons I actually like NCL is that they don't sell Coke. Not quite sure why all cruise lines just don't offer both brands and then they would have something appealing to all customers. Same thing with the rootbeer sold by coke it contains caffeine, while the rootbeer Pepsi sells does not. My sister can only drink rootbeer with out the caffeine.

[UFMOM]

At Norwegian Cruise Line, the safety and security of our guests and crew is our top priority. To ensure a safe and enjoyable onboard environment for all, guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages -- including liquor, beer and non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices -- on board the company’s ships either as carry-on or checked luggage, with the exception of purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula; and fully sealed and/or corked wine bottles for personal consumption onboard that is subject to screening and a corkage fee (for guests 21 years of age or older). Open beverages of any kind must be consumed or discarded at the security check-point, on embarkation day and at any port of call.

 

To provide our guests with a smoother and faster embarkation experience, we will be implementing this updated policy effective July 15. This revised policy brings the company in line with other best practice travel security protocols and reduces the need for individual time consuming screening and package inspection of large volumes of beverages.

 

We thank our guests for their understanding, cooperation and compliance with this change. More information on our beverage policy is available on our website at https://www.ncl.com/faq#can-i-bring-my-own-water-or-soda-onboard

 

Looks like I will be able to squeak by the 12 pack of Perrier cans I have packed in my carry on for my July 9th sailing on the Escape. Disappointed in this new rule. Hope they add sparkling bottled water to the UBP promo like Celebrity.

 

 

 

 

Mary Ann

[triptolemus]

What would be the medical reason to have to bring water on board for a diabetic person?

 

That would be about 80% of the ship...

[NLH Arizona]

 

What I am suggesting is that asking for a refund of previously purchased cruise next certs is a ....very valid...argument considering Ncl changed the rules after they were purchased

 

Please come back and let us know how you made out with the request for a refund.