Just a quick note on an additional perk that comes with the More At Sea Specialty Dining offering . . . Besides getting more Specialty Dining opportunities that you mentioned, you will also get to choose up to three appetizers and three desserts with each meal! This is up from just getting to choose one app and one dessert. Yes, this could be a diet-killer, but it does help to take some of the sting out of the higher gratuity fees. Here is the text on this from their More At Sea flyer: "Plus MORE apps and desserts at each meal: order up to 3 appetizers and 3 desserts for more to enjoy."
Great find! This is consistent with the change of a la carte menus to charging a cover charge at the dining venues. Make it easier to control and also makes the pricing more consistent with what you see at land-based restaurants.
Who can seriously eat three appetizers and desserts with your entree? We will pass on this Specialty Restaurant offer and eat at MDR where we can order as much as we want.
@@elenediacogiannis373 Absolutely! More at Sea is definitely not designed for everyone's tastes. The beautiful thing about the program is that you can pick and choose the aspect that speak to you, or take none of them at all! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
On the star and sun they have what is called the garden villa at the top of the ship. It is a beautiful palatial 3 bedroom suite with the option to convert any of the couches to a bed. There is usually only 2 per boat and so nice. It also has private steam room, jetted hot tub and a full sun deck all for just your cabin.
For those of us who consistently purchased FaS+, this is a major downgrade, not an enhancement. Our next cruise with NCL is August, but if they don't find a suitable replacement, we're canceling.
@OgopogoResortMinden Now extra dining and unlimited wifi are piecemeal, at ridic prices. Dining cover charges are absolutely inflated with the way they've paired down the menu and quality at each restaurant. And the Wifi in MaS is definitely a downgrade as it doesn't change with length of cruise. So whether you're taking a 15-night cruise or a 7-night cruise, you get the same shoddy 150 minutes. Makes perfect sense in the day and age of Starlink. 🙄 Rather archaic model, IMHO. No more option to include bottled water and Starbucks. Starbucks can be bought as an extra package, sure. Water, you now need a package to have delivered to your room, but no more Aqua Panna or Pelegrino at dinner without an additional upcharge. No more second guest shorex discount. Plenty of other cruise lines offer more inclusive packages. We're nearly Diamond status on NCL, and we'll be on our way soon. Our last Joy cruise in late August was only saved by the friends we met in the Haven. So many things have gone downhill. We'll be keeping a very close eye on the sitch. Glad the only thing they haven't reconsidered (so far) is fully refundable deposits to make for easier cancelations, though I'm sure their money grabbing will lead them to change that policy soon. Let's just say our next cruise is NOT on Norwegian. I wish NCL luck filling their ships with new cruisers who don't know any better and cruisers who book regular cabins and don't buy much extra to elevate their experience. NCL is quickly becoming a Carnival equivalent.
I'd need to look into it more, but I believe it was also announced for specialty dining that all per-item charges are going away and it's just going to be a cover charge. So, depending on what you had been paying for adding additional nights of signature dining, you may be able to just go to the restaurant for the same price. Edit: Found it! All specialty restaurants will have a cover charge. Cover charges are as follows: Steak, Teppanyaki / Hasuki, French, and Seafood have a $60 cover charge. Brazil, Asian, Food Republic, and Sushi have a $50 cover charge. Italian, BBQ, Pincho, and Mexican have a $40 cover charge.
Hey there! Thanks for watching and commenting. Interestingly enough, NCL kind of buried this big deal change through the announcement. All of the early communication pre-launch referenced cover charges, but they never explicitly came out and said anything. Even with the launch, it’s kind of tucked away in the FAQs! We updated the article our website last night once those prices were published. We also compare how the pricing has changed for the various packages over the past year and a half as Norwegian has raised prices a couple times. Really fascinating to see how they launched all of these changes at once. I think how they went about it accomplished their goal of masking the price increases across the board. We modeled out several of our sailings under the new program and we would have paid hundreds more for essentially the same things (the premium drinks isn’t a huge draw for us as we always found something we enjoyed under Free at Sea). Thanks for watching and for sharing the details about this somewhat quietly launched change. We’re excited to get on board January 5th to see all the changes first hand!! -mark
@@thiscruiselife I love NCL as long as they don’t change the menu binder, I only get the the soda package on any cruise line, I love the MDR like Hudson and the Commodore
So did they eliminate the plus beverage packages now? Cuz the premium plus includes Starbucks, bottled water, and bottled wine. I had no issue paying extra to get those.
Thanks for watching and the question! They will be eliminating the Plus package altogether, yes. We're bummed as we enjoyed one upgrade price for Starbucks, bottled water, Internet, additional Specialty Dining, etc. I'm guessing not enough people took advantage of it - and it proved more financially beneficial to NCL to charge for those separately (it's definitely "more" across the board when it comes to cost). -Mark
100% true about business strategy. The cruise line is raising prices and managing the change by selling it as “more.” We rate each claim under the new program on our website. And while several statements are factually true, some are misleading. Note Wi-Fi is only true in very select cases; in others, you’re actually getting half the minutes you did under Free at Sea. A great example of managing a change through marketing. We are happy about moving away from the ridiculous ala carte pricing at specialty restaurants. It just reinforced the perception of nickel-and-diming. The new cover charge concept more closely matches peers in the industry and should actually drive more adoption by our account. We also like the beverage package change, but are happy we booked under FAS pricing. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts with us! -Mark
Stripping unlimited internet from my FAS+ as well as the $50 excursion credit for 2nd guest and putting out the VAGUE 45% more top shelf alcohol and making like the few they mention are what they think we desire is sad. No drink price limit while sounds good, the price per day grabs the extra cost up front that you had choice whether to buy or not over the $15 limit before. Still really sad that water containers are not included. Then it's still vague when they say juices are included, but some are saying FRESHLY SQUEEZED JUICES are NOT included! SMOKE AND MIRRORS TIME!
@@rgruenhaus With our experience with any cruise line drinks package, the freshly squeezed juices are rarely included. It's considered a premium option which is usually associated with either a premium drinks package (when offered) or is only available a la carte.
Speciality Dining: I get 3 specialty dinings with my cruise. What does it mean, that it still costs an additional 15 dollars? So I still have to pay for speciality dining? Even with “more at sea”? (Free at sea) Just less, than without any package?
Hey there! It depends on if you have the Free at Sea or new More at Sea offer. There's always been a Dining Package Charge under the "at Sea" programs. Under Free at Sea, the Dining Package Charge was $11.80/meal. Under More at Sea, the charge increases to $20/meal. If you were to purchase the specialty meals ala carte, you can see the new pricing for restaurants below: Steak, Teppanyaki, French, and Seafood have a $60 cover charge Brazil, Asian, Food Republic, and Sushi have a $50 cover charge Italian, BBQ, Pincho, and Mexican have a $40 cover charge You can check out the FULL details of the program, including costs, on our website here: www.thiscruiselife.com/cruise-blog/norwegian-cruise-line-discontinues-popular-free-at-sea/ Thanks for watching and the question. Sorry for my delay as I sailed across the Pacific Ocean on Carnival Panorama this past month!! :) -Mark
I am a travel agent and i have a large group travel to spain and doing 9 day med cruise in September 2026 we what we have now free at sea be ok or will they change this on us..
@@PaulSchmidt-hy7ht based on all of the information we have read, as long as you booked prior to October 1st, you should benefit from Free at Sea and More at Sea. We are definitely keeping a close watch on the cruise line to see if they maintain that promise.
NCL sticking with minute limits on their wifi is so archaic. Especially when you got lines like princess who have unlimited wifi, and unlimited specialty dining in their Premier packages. Ive never done an NCL cruise but for me just give me the all inclusive packages of princess rather than the nickel and diming that NCL is still doing. Obviously other factors to include when picking a cruise but the nickel and diming would irritate me.
Yes; we agree. It’s such an archaic model. Great word to describe it. Despite rolling out Starlink to the fleet, they’ve likely kept it around counting on more $$ for the upgrades. I enjoyed Free at Sea Plus as it upgraded everything in the package, including the WiFi. Now it’s $29 or $39 a day to upgrade and it just feels like the nickel and diming I’ve expected on each of my NCL sailings. I miss the days of just paying one price and having everything I needed. We’ll be sailing our first Princess cruise next year - any recommendations? :) -m
i booked an inside for a 15 day and got 2 meals - but used my NCL points and upgraded to a Balcony - so guess i will still just get 2 - 2 nights at cagneys 🙂
Well that’s a bummer! Call and see if you can sneak an extra night since you upgraded to a balcony! ;) haha What ship are you sailing? Hope you have an amazing time!! -Mark
Frankly I'm looking forward to More at Sea. I am a big fan of top shelf whisky, but I never get the package upgrade because it's _very_ expensive. With More at Sea, I get access to more premium whisky without the guilt of the upgrade. In about a month, I'll be trying out one of the new solo balconies on the Joy for 15 nights. I get three specialty meals.
Hey there! Thanks for watching and commenting on our video! If you're sailing before January 1st and booked the cruise prior to October 31st, you'll still be sailing under Free at Sea. We hope you enjoy your 15 glorious solo nights on the Joy. Sounds like a great itinerary, though hopefully you'll find a good enjoy whisky to enjoy during your cruise.
@@thiscruiselife Yep. Free at sea it is. I have exactly 45 Latitudes points. On my last cruise I got Gold, but never sailed as a Gold points member. This cruise is double points, so I'll blast through Gold in one go and finish as a Platinum. Interestingly, on the following cruise my wife and I will be in different tiers. Not sure how that will play out.
@@Lord.KiltridgeCongratulations on moving up in tiers. Honestly, with what we've seen, many of the benefits, even though earned individually, will only be applied once per stateroom. So when you start to earn a free bottle of champagne/sparkling wine, the cabin will only receive one, regardless of how many qualified sailors there are, so enjoy the benefits as they come!
@@Zippitybippity great question! According to everything we’ve read, as long as you booked your cruise prior to October 1st, 2024 you’ll receive the perks of both programs on your cruise! Thanks for watching and asking your question! -Rocky
I understand the change but I feel those who already booked FAS+ prior to 10/1 for a 2024 sailing are getting the shaft since MAS doesn’t start until 1/1/25. If you paid for FAS+ you will get a refund but get to keep the $50 excursion/port for guest 2. We are upset we lose unlimited bottled water/fresh juice and speciality coffee.
Do you have a reservation with FAS+ prior to 1/1/2025 or after? I don't think they're canceling on reservations prior to 1/1/2025. But if it's after, yeah, that sucks as you'll now have to buy a water package if you want that along with the Starbucks package if you want that, along with unlimited internet if you want that... All of those are most definitely going to be more expensive than just keeping the "plus" version of the package. I will say, we've heard from some cruisers on social media that they've had luck calling in to the cruise line to complain and getting credit on their account to use toward the new packages. Obviously, not a guarantee, but something you may consider. Thanks, again, for the comment! -Mark
I went to purchase it yesterday and it was gone. Per the NCL website and FAQ on the site, people who have FAS+ for sailings 10/1-12/31 will be refunded and will still have the basic FAS. They will not lose the $50 excursion credit for guest #2
Going back to the NCL site; they removed the FAQ about refunding FAS+. I wonder if they got enough complaints they backed off that and will honor FAS+ the rest of the year. I should have screen shot it.
@@jpentzien This is incorrect, there is a glitch on the NCL site that doesn't show that you if you bought FAS+. If you have ALREADY bought FAS+ for any cruise that ENDS in 2024 you will keep it. I called NCL to confirm and got the amenity statement emailed to me confirming this. You simply cannot buy it anymore and add it to any 2024 cruise.
@@JosephDickersonUX “glitch” I think they backtracked on what was on the site about refunding Q4 2024 FAS+ purchases. People were rightfully upset with the sudden change and how it was rolled out.
We had to check ourselves on this because we thought that the $50 Shore Excursion credit only applied to the 1st guest. Nothing has changed with this part of the product. As you can see in this fact sheet from Norwegian (www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/1899150-PRM-FAS-Flyer_v8-10112024.pdf), the shore excursion credit only applies to the 1st guest under Free at Sea.
Yes! When we modeled out each of our 2025 sailings, prices went up nearly $200 per sailing. Thankfully, we locked in prior to October 1, so we’ll enjoy Free at Sea along with the Premium Beverage Package - while saving some cash for onboard and port expenses! :) Thanks for watching and commenting Kathy. Let us know what good deals you find out there!! -Mark
The problem I see is I expect the currently very limited connoisseur beverage list is going to expand *a lot*. I assume I won't be drinking $40-$50 Scotch for free like I could on Premium Plus.
We LOVED that feature of Premium Plus! Always felt so fancy enjoying a $50 drink! lol And we can’t help but agree that the connoisseur list will likely expand under the new program. We’ll be on first week of January to find out for sure! Will keep you posted. :) Thanks for watching and sharing your thought! -Mark
So, Im on a 25 day cruise next year and now my internet has gone from 300 mins to 150 mins? That kinda sucks. I dont see any benefits to this "upgrade" for us
Right? When they claim More internet, it’s actually not even true in your case or anyone that sails 12+ days. I mean, really: what is the point of taking that away on a 12+ day cruise? It’s almost insulting if you think about it. Telling you that it’s an upgrade and you get more and then giving you half. That’s probably the most frustrating part of the change for me. With that said - 25 day cruise sounds amazing!!! Where are you going?? -Mark
@@thiscruiselife Ok, so I just spent a few minutes chatting with the AI bot on the NCL website and Jazmine says that my deal with the 300 minutes will be honored. I sure hope so! NCL has been pretty good to us so far... Anyways, yeah a 25 day from Tampa through the Panama Canal and up the other side all the way to Alaska with stops in Colombia, Panama, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, LA, SF, Oregon and a few more stops before we disembark in Whitttier! This is on the NCL Jade in April 2025.
Some people like the idea of having everything "included" in their cruises rather than paying a la carte for everything. We always recommend price-checking your cruise both with and without More at Sea to determine if the perks/benefits will be worth it for you!
Hopefully that's what you paid for the premium drinks package. If it is, then they're doing what they promised, which is unfortunate. We'll be on one of the first full More at Sea sailings in January to check out the MORE drinks that are supposed to be included. So don't go too far from the channel. 😉
I’ve always had a dilemma with NCL's Free at Sea program because they advertise it as free, but when you check out, they expect you to pay for all the gratuities. For example, the drink package is included, but you still have to pay gratuities for each day of the drink package, in addition to the regular gratuities you normally have to pay. On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises, with their All-Inclusive package, includes drinks and gratuities. So, I feel Celebrity is a bit more transparent with their pricing. I feel this new pricing strategy on NCL is more confusing and feels like it's nickel-and-diming
@@bryan6885 unfortunately we’ve seen a lot of that with NCL. When you have Free/More at Sea, you really do need to have a few drinks each day to make use of those gratuities that you’re “forced” to pay. It’s definitely sneaky of them which is why we always recommend reading through the T+C’s for any program offered by the cruise lines out there before participating. There’s so many intricacies. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts! -Rocky
So many - and all at once! The one that they kind of snuck in without announcing it is the return to Cover Charges at the restaurants. They used to do this in 2016 before moving to the ala carte model. I’m guessing that didn’t make them the money they expected. Plus, even with Free at Sea, it still felt icky when you’d get the bill and it was $218 for two people to enjoy one meal. Really made everything about the experience feel price inflated. Will be interesting to watch the change roll out in January!
OUCH! We've said, More at Sea is definitely going to cost you MORE. I'm sorry to hear that sizeable increase to your reservation. We don't plan to touch any of our bookings as a result of the price increase. We'd be looking at more than $800 in increase across our current bookings. Thankful that we're grandfathered in for 2025 sailings. -Mark
If you booked BEFORE Oct. 1st, 2024, then you get both the "free at sea" AND the "more at sea" benefits. We also have a cruise booked for 2026. DO NOT cancel & re-book your cruise!
@@thiscruiselife its nice to see that you are grandfathered in for 2025. We have a cruise later this month that was originally scheduled on the getaway. However, they cancelled the getaway as it is going to the Caribbean earlier than was previously expected. So we were forced to rebook a different cruise. in our old cruise we booked a balcony with the thermal spa included. they removed the thermal suite but we were grandfathered. however, since we were forced to cancel and rebook under a new cruise, we were no longer grandfathered for the spa suite. so even though we have the exact same size cabin at eh same part of the new booking, we have to pay an additional $1100 for the 2 of us to receive the thermal spa package. NCL is really starting to piss me off with all of the nickel and diming yet they are recording record profits to shareholders!
What was the upgrade that you received? You should have both Free at Sea and More at Sea for your January cruise. Curious what other perks they threw in your direction!
The one nice thing that came from this change is the Cover Charges as the specialty restaurants instead of it being a la carte. Makes the dining experiences a little more affordable with the sunset of the pre-purchased dining packages.
It's so true, Brian! A good travel advisor does all the research and legwork ahead of time so that there aren't surprises when these types of changes strike. It's been interesting reading the NCL groups today. Multiple comments from cruisers like, "My travel advisor is so frustrated, he had no idea what these changes meant and will call me back once he can get through to someone at Norwegian." While no TA can know every change or detail, one that's passionate about cruising and follows the industry (obsesses?) will likely have more insider information up front. :) -Mark
We’ve never understood RCL’s drink package pricing! It varies based on trip and can exceed $100/person/day. Personally, can’t fathom paying as much for drinks as I pay for the cruise! (Tho, $100/day cruise fares seem to be a thing of the past!) The best deal out there for a drinks package today is consistently MSC. Itineraries price out less expensive and the add on for a booking with drinks isn’t that much more than the base fare. All of our MSC sailings next year have drinks - and they’re all significantly less expensive than NCL. Of course, MSC isn’t everyone’s favorite either, so it’s all in what you enjoy and what you’re willing to pay. Thanks for watching and the comment! -Mark
It's all part of being a business. They need to make sure that they're able to cover the costs of goods onboard, and if that means getting creative with wording and programs, they'll do it. May not always benefit the passenger, which is why it's important to familiarize yourself with any program changes for the cruise line you'll be sailing.
The claim upgraded premium drinks, but where's the list? They refuse to provide a list to see if it's actually upgraded. I'd prefer to stay with my FAS+ package I paid for, that they refuse to honor. I pay for what I want. A deal should be a deal.
@@Derek1105 we agree with your frustration about the new inclusions. They are so proud of the new transparency, but it’s only applicable to certain items in the new program apparently. It’s why we booked one of the first sailings after the introduction of More At Sea, in January, so stay tuned for more details as we find them!
I am so unhappy with this change. We always get FAS Plus which included Water, Pelligreno, Starbucks, and Champaign, and Bottles of Wine at restaurants breakfast, lunch and dinner). Not to mention Unlimited Wi-Fi, 4 Specialty dining and $50 0ff Shore Excursions for passengers 1,2 and gratuities are inculded. So I tip cash on top. It is now a flat rate for specialty dining instead of al'carte. I never eat at the buffet only the restaurants and will purchase 4+ additional dining prior to barding depending on the length of my cruise. I never been duped by basic Free at Sea (too many limitations) and never utilized the air perk -- we're loyat to our airline carrier and I cannot fathom 3-4 people in any cabin even a balcony or a suite. This now means I have to spend more money with More at Sea.
@@dmoniquerenee all of your concerns are totally valid. Definitely a huge change to the program which is why we wanted to share the details. It will be interesting to see how the mass public responds to it and if there will be more changes coming. While we loved getting to purchase the extra dining package outside of FAS, it’ll be interesting to see how the new “Cover Charge” is implemented on the ships. Thank you so much for watching our video and sharing your thoughts. -Rocky
We always air quote the “free” as nothing is truly free with this program. More at Sea actually is a more appropriate name, in my opinion. Thanks for watching! -Mark
NCL is totally out of control on service cuts and price increases. Love the Haven but will be moving to Celebrity for a more all inclusive fare. ps.. Highest paid CEO in the biz.
Yes we will be leaving the haven and ncl behind as well, because of these changes. We loved included starbucks, cans of cocoa cola, bottled water and we only drink premium. This years trip was most likely our last one and we are now platinum. 😢
@@markw639 we totally hear that! You may want to consider checking out MSC Yacht Club, too! We met several individuals when we sailed in the YC who said they’ve experienced The Heaven and The Retreat and the Yacht Club far overshadows both programs! Check out our full review of the experience on the channel! ruclips.net/video/lXPE0SSa--4/видео.html
The price increases are definitely a bummer. We modeled out a couple of our reservations and each one is about $200 more due to the increased beverage package charge and dining package charge. Thankfully, we booked them prior to October 1, so we're grandfathered in with the current pricing and program while getting access to More at Sea! So, for those that are already booked, it's a win. For new bookings, More is going to cost you more.
Just when you think you have done your homework and made sense of what you want and picked the right package(s). This is a vacation that's becoming more work than work. Lame.
So true! Historically, cruise lines give some advance notice so that folks can plan. This was announced on October 1 and any booking after took on the new terms and pricing (2025 and beyond). This is likely due to the fact that if they provided advanced notice, a lot of folks would have booked under current program and NCL would have lost out on a bunch of revenue that More at Sea will bring in. There’s little doubt in our minds that this change isn’t because of “guest feedback” - rather, it’s a financial move that will bring in a considerable amount of new revenue. Hope the cruise is amazing, regardless of these changes! -Mark
@@nmraidernation.6092 so very true. And now it’s even MORE! From a branding perspective, More at Sea doesn’t lead folks to believe it’s free like the previous program did, so that’s good. But you definitely will pay more for more! -Mark
I’ll have to re-watch as I’m not sure which part we found funny. But I do admit we do like to laugh. Life’s too short not to enjoy it! Thanks for watching! -Mark
There's a lot of change in this program that NCL has marketed as "more" but as several followers have pointed out, it's going to cost a lot more. One person shared that their same itinerary was now $400 more under the new program. Ouch. Most of ours range between $170-$200 more expensive just based on the new daily fees. That doesn't even account for having to purchase a bottled water package, Starbucks, etc. Do you have any NCL sailings already on the books? We're thankful to have Free At Sea grandfathered in for our 2025 sailings. We'll have to evaluate beyond that... -Mark
@@1decee it’s why we always recommend that cruisers do some homework on the various packages onboard before deciding to purchase to ensure it all makes sense, especially from a fiscal perspective.
@@keeperzero the pandemic definitely made it difficult for all of the cruise lines to succeed, creating lots and lots of debt. However we haven’t heard anything about Norwegian going bankrupt. Bookings are up across all of the major cruise lines.
Yeah, it does seem that cruisers will be paying more for less. Some perks - like internet minutes for everyone in the cabin - are nice. But they only apply to a limited amount of cruisers. And even with that benefit, they give up to an extra 150 minutes per person… hardly seems like a great addition. ;) Just one more way to collect more. -m
@@thiscruiselife I am booked for January 2025 and received notification today about the change . I was curious what all the changes ment. I appreciate you clarifying. I still like NCL but will look into other cruise lines.
These guy’s are hilarious and obviously sponsored by NCL.. 😂 The Norwegian is a “has been” and does NOT deliver. Period. They have been cutting of staff and entertainment onboard whilst stnthe same time increasing their prices, however, the CEO is the highest paid in the field. NCL does not know the meaning of “customer service” and their team of “guest relations” are both grumpy and unhelpful. Stay away from NCL they are far from being up to standard!
Sounds like you’ve not had a great experience with NCL; I’m sorry to hear that. With that said, I’m not sure how you made the connection to us sharing out these changes and price increases as being sponsored by the cruise line? ;) Make no mistake, More at Sea is a financial play. We did multiple mock bookings and heard from several followers that it’s much more expensive under the new program. And some of the claims of “more” feel a bit misleading (check out our in-depth review of all the changes on thiscruiselife dot com). There’s a lot that NCL gets right, however, and a lot that we’ve loved about our experiences on board. And the cruise line has a loyal following. While I am bummed to hear about your experience of the line not delivering, this doesn’t seem to be the case across the board. Hopefully, you’ll find another line out there that takes better care of you. Let us know if you need any recommendations! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. -Mark
I just booked a cruise for this year last week. It was cheaper by far than one in March, but the free at sea is chaeper than more at sea would be in March. As you noted, getting 3 meals ( solo balcony, 15 days) cost 27, next year I would get 5 for 100. I would rather have 63 bucks in my pocket. The drink package was already more than 'al a cart' for me, I have feeling that this will lose them money as all non alcoholic drinkers will opt out. I may have gave it a shot, but not at all happening now. As for the internet, I have the 300 min, and it not steaming 300, on longer cruises, I will be buying package anyway, so no loss for me. on a shorter one I did with the free min ad it did work, but the upgrade is almost always going to happen. This is NCL always trying to nibble your money., I liked the old one better as it was cheaper and don't forget they have the highest regular gratuities in the business already.
Thanks for sharing your experiences with their program. We are definitely seeing NCL asking for more money from passengers by disguising it in these Free/More at Sea programs. It's goo to do your research ahead of time and know what you're getting in the long run. We do appreciate that More at Sea can be piecemealed to build it for how you like, but it's just so frustrating how they approach the matter.
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Worked out great for my 2025 sailing since ncl is upgrading existing bookings that has free at sea made prior to 10/1/24 to the new program for free
@@mortar235 yes! Hope you enjoy the double benefits!
Excellent report.
Thank you for watching and the compliment! We tried to make the details about the two programs as digestible as possible!
Just a quick note on an additional perk that comes with the More At Sea Specialty Dining offering . . . Besides getting more Specialty Dining opportunities that you mentioned, you will also get to choose up to three appetizers and three desserts with each meal! This is up from just getting to choose one app and one dessert. Yes, this could be a diet-killer, but it does help to take some of the sting out of the higher gratuity fees.
Here is the text on this from their More At Sea flyer: "Plus MORE apps and desserts at each meal: order up to 3 appetizers and 3 desserts for more to enjoy."
Great find! This is consistent with the change of a la carte menus to charging a cover charge at the dining venues. Make it easier to control and also makes the pricing more consistent with what you see at land-based restaurants.
Who can seriously eat three appetizers and desserts with your entree? We will pass on this Specialty Restaurant offer and eat at MDR where we can order as much as we want.
@@elenediacogiannis373 Absolutely! More at Sea is definitely not designed for everyone's tastes. The beautiful thing about the program is that you can pick and choose the aspect that speak to you, or take none of them at all! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
On the star and sun they have what is called the garden villa at the top of the ship. It is a beautiful palatial 3 bedroom suite with the option to convert any of the couches to a bed. There is usually only 2 per boat and so nice. It also has private steam room, jetted hot tub and a full sun deck all for just your cabin.
@@LunaLight95 that sounds luxurious! Thanks for sharing those details with us!
For those of us who consistently purchased FaS+, this is a major downgrade, not an enhancement. Our next cruise with NCL is August, but if they don't find a suitable replacement, we're canceling.
i don't see it as a downgrade at all. would you mind explaining how you see it as a downgrade?
@OgopogoResortMinden Now extra dining and unlimited wifi are piecemeal, at ridic prices. Dining cover charges are absolutely inflated with the way they've paired down the menu and quality at each restaurant. And the Wifi in MaS is definitely a downgrade as it doesn't change with length of cruise. So whether you're taking a 15-night cruise or a 7-night cruise, you get the same shoddy 150 minutes. Makes perfect sense in the day and age of Starlink. 🙄 Rather archaic model, IMHO. No more option to include bottled water and Starbucks. Starbucks can be bought as an extra package, sure. Water, you now need a package to have delivered to your room, but no more Aqua Panna or Pelegrino at dinner without an additional upcharge. No more second guest shorex discount.
Plenty of other cruise lines offer more inclusive packages. We're nearly Diamond status on NCL, and we'll be on our way soon. Our last Joy cruise in late August was only saved by the friends we met in the Haven. So many things have gone downhill. We'll be keeping a very close eye on the sitch. Glad the only thing they haven't reconsidered (so far) is fully refundable deposits to make for easier cancelations, though I'm sure their money grabbing will lead them to change that policy soon. Let's just say our next cruise is NOT on Norwegian. I wish NCL luck filling their ships with new cruisers who don't know any better and cruisers who book regular cabins and don't buy much extra to elevate their experience. NCL is quickly becoming a Carnival equivalent.
Most get extra specialty dinners
All get 40 more drinks to choose
Those that bought dinners get refund
My wi-fi got at old price
Ncl lost $$ on me
@OgopogoResortMinden I swear i wrote a reply explaining our disappointment, and now i can't see it. Hmmmmm
I'd need to look into it more, but I believe it was also announced for specialty dining that all per-item charges are going away and it's just going to be a cover charge. So, depending on what you had been paying for adding additional nights of signature dining, you may be able to just go to the restaurant for the same price.
Edit: Found it!
All specialty restaurants will have a cover charge. Cover charges are as follows:
Steak, Teppanyaki / Hasuki, French, and Seafood have a $60 cover charge.
Brazil, Asian, Food Republic, and Sushi have a $50 cover charge.
Italian, BBQ, Pincho, and Mexican have a $40 cover charge.
Hey there! Thanks for watching and commenting. Interestingly enough, NCL kind of buried this big deal change through the announcement. All of the early communication pre-launch referenced cover charges, but they never explicitly came out and said anything. Even with the launch, it’s kind of tucked away in the FAQs!
We updated the article our website last night once those prices were published. We also compare how the pricing has changed for the various packages over the past year and a half as Norwegian has raised prices a couple times.
Really fascinating to see how they launched all of these changes at once. I think how they went about it accomplished their goal of masking the price increases across the board. We modeled out several of our sailings under the new program and we would have paid hundreds more for essentially the same things (the premium drinks isn’t a huge draw for us as we always found something we enjoyed under Free at Sea).
Thanks for watching and for sharing the details about this somewhat quietly launched change. We’re excited to get on board January 5th to see all the changes first hand!! -mark
Your info. Is very helpful! Thank you so much for posting! I was wondering about that.
Good morning watching this replay
Thanks for watching! What do you think about all these changes?? -Mark
@@thiscruiselife I love NCL as long as they don’t change the menu binder, I only get the the soda package on any cruise line, I love the MDR like Hudson and the Commodore
So did they eliminate the plus beverage packages now? Cuz the premium plus includes Starbucks, bottled water, and bottled wine. I had no issue paying extra to get those.
Thanks for watching and the question! They will be eliminating the Plus package altogether, yes. We're bummed as we enjoyed one upgrade price for Starbucks, bottled water, Internet, additional Specialty Dining, etc. I'm guessing not enough people took advantage of it - and it proved more financially beneficial to NCL to charge for those separately (it's definitely "more" across the board when it comes to cost). -Mark
This is all NCL business strategy, to me as a consumer it feels more like “ LESS AT SEA “
100% true about business strategy. The cruise line is raising prices and managing the change by selling it as “more.” We rate each claim under the new program on our website. And while several statements are factually true, some are misleading. Note Wi-Fi is only true in very select cases; in others, you’re actually getting half the minutes you did under Free at Sea. A great example of managing a change through marketing.
We are happy about moving away from the ridiculous ala carte pricing at specialty restaurants. It just reinforced the perception of nickel-and-diming. The new cover charge concept more closely matches peers in the industry and should actually drive more adoption by our account. We also like the beverage package change, but are happy we booked under FAS pricing.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts with us! -Mark
Stripping unlimited internet from my FAS+ as well as the $50 excursion credit for 2nd guest and putting out the VAGUE 45% more top shelf alcohol and making like the few they mention are what they think we desire is sad. No drink price limit while sounds good, the price per day grabs the extra cost up front that you had choice whether to buy or not over the $15 limit before.
Still really sad that water containers are not included. Then it's still vague when they say juices are included, but some are saying FRESHLY SQUEEZED JUICES are NOT included!
SMOKE AND MIRRORS TIME!
@@rgruenhaus With our experience with any cruise line drinks package, the freshly squeezed juices are rarely included. It's considered a premium option which is usually associated with either a premium drinks package (when offered) or is only available a la carte.
Speciality Dining:
I get 3 specialty dinings with my cruise.
What does it mean, that it still costs an additional 15 dollars?
So I still have to pay for speciality dining? Even with “more at sea”? (Free at sea)
Just less, than without any package?
Hey there! It depends on if you have the Free at Sea or new More at Sea offer. There's always been a Dining Package Charge under the "at Sea" programs. Under Free at Sea, the Dining Package Charge was $11.80/meal. Under More at Sea, the charge increases to $20/meal.
If you were to purchase the specialty meals ala carte, you can see the new pricing for restaurants below:
Steak, Teppanyaki, French, and Seafood have a $60 cover charge
Brazil, Asian, Food Republic, and Sushi have a $50 cover charge
Italian, BBQ, Pincho, and Mexican have a $40 cover charge
You can check out the FULL details of the program, including costs, on our website here:
www.thiscruiselife.com/cruise-blog/norwegian-cruise-line-discontinues-popular-free-at-sea/
Thanks for watching and the question. Sorry for my delay as I sailed across the Pacific Ocean on Carnival Panorama this past month!! :) -Mark
I am a travel agent and i have a large group travel to spain and doing 9 day med cruise in September 2026 we what we have now free at sea be ok or will they change this on us..
@@PaulSchmidt-hy7ht based on all of the information we have read, as long as you booked prior to October 1st, you should benefit from Free at Sea and More at Sea. We are definitely keeping a close watch on the cruise line to see if they maintain that promise.
@@thiscruiselife Thank you that is what I thought you said.. You guys are my new favorite and I have subscribed..
Thanks for the detailed explanation guys! This new cruiser really appreciates it!
@@terrimaulik4332 you’re welcome! Thanks for watching. Glad we were able to help you better understand the intricacies of this program.
NCL sticking with minute limits on their wifi is so archaic. Especially when you got lines like princess who have unlimited wifi, and unlimited specialty dining in their Premier packages. Ive never done an NCL cruise but for me just give me the all inclusive packages of princess rather than the nickel and diming that NCL is still doing. Obviously other factors to include when picking a cruise but the nickel and diming would irritate me.
Yes; we agree. It’s such an archaic model. Great word to describe it. Despite rolling out Starlink to the fleet, they’ve likely kept it around counting on more $$ for the upgrades. I enjoyed Free at Sea Plus as it upgraded everything in the package, including the WiFi. Now it’s $29 or $39 a day to upgrade and it just feels like the nickel and diming I’ve expected on each of my NCL sailings. I miss the days of just paying one price and having everything I needed.
We’ll be sailing our first Princess cruise next year - any recommendations? :) -m
i booked an inside for a 15 day and got 2 meals - but used my NCL points and upgraded to a Balcony - so guess i will still just get 2 - 2 nights at cagneys 🙂
Well that’s a bummer! Call and see if you can sneak an extra night since you upgraded to a balcony! ;) haha
What ship are you sailing? Hope you have an amazing time!! -Mark
@@thiscruiselife i will be on the Star from Oslo to Southampton - to include Iceland - Faroe and Scotland
Frankly I'm looking forward to More at Sea. I am a big fan of top shelf whisky, but I never get the package upgrade because it's _very_ expensive. With More at Sea, I get access to more premium whisky without the guilt of the upgrade. In about a month, I'll be trying out one of the new solo balconies on the Joy for 15 nights. I get three specialty meals.
Hey there! Thanks for watching and commenting on our video! If you're sailing before January 1st and booked the cruise prior to October 31st, you'll still be sailing under Free at Sea. We hope you enjoy your 15 glorious solo nights on the Joy. Sounds like a great itinerary, though hopefully you'll find a good enjoy whisky to enjoy during your cruise.
@@thiscruiselife Yep. Free at sea it is. I have exactly 45 Latitudes points. On my last cruise I got Gold, but never sailed as a Gold points member. This cruise is double points, so I'll blast through Gold in one go and finish as a Platinum. Interestingly, on the following cruise my wife and I will be in different tiers. Not sure how that will play out.
@@Lord.KiltridgeCongratulations on moving up in tiers. Honestly, with what we've seen, many of the benefits, even though earned individually, will only be applied once per stateroom. So when you start to earn a free bottle of champagne/sparkling wine, the cabin will only receive one, regardless of how many qualified sailors there are, so enjoy the benefits as they come!
@@thiscruiselife My understanding as well.
@@Lord.Kiltridgeand if you think about it, be sure to let us know what you think about the solo balcony experience!!
We don’t sail until Sept. ‘25 so will Free at Sea be eliminated on our reservation?
@@Zippitybippity great question! According to everything we’ve read, as long as you booked your cruise prior to October 1st, 2024 you’ll receive the perks of both programs on your cruise!
Thanks for watching and asking your question! -Rocky
I understand the change but I feel those who already booked FAS+ prior to 10/1 for a 2024 sailing are getting the shaft since MAS doesn’t start until 1/1/25. If you paid for FAS+ you will get a refund but get to keep the $50 excursion/port for guest 2. We are upset we lose unlimited bottled water/fresh juice and speciality coffee.
Do you have a reservation with FAS+ prior to 1/1/2025 or after? I don't think they're canceling on reservations prior to 1/1/2025. But if it's after, yeah, that sucks as you'll now have to buy a water package if you want that along with the Starbucks package if you want that, along with unlimited internet if you want that... All of those are most definitely going to be more expensive than just keeping the "plus" version of the package.
I will say, we've heard from some cruisers on social media that they've had luck calling in to the cruise line to complain and getting credit on their account to use toward the new packages. Obviously, not a guarantee, but something you may consider.
Thanks, again, for the comment! -Mark
I went to purchase it yesterday and it was gone. Per the NCL website and FAQ on the site, people who have FAS+ for sailings 10/1-12/31 will be refunded and will still have the basic FAS. They will not lose the $50 excursion credit for guest #2
Going back to the NCL site; they removed the FAQ about refunding FAS+. I wonder if they got enough complaints they backed off that and will honor FAS+ the rest of the year. I should have screen shot it.
@@jpentzien This is incorrect, there is a glitch on the NCL site that doesn't show that you if you bought FAS+. If you have ALREADY bought FAS+ for any cruise that ENDS in 2024 you will keep it. I called NCL to confirm and got the amenity statement emailed to me confirming this. You simply cannot buy it anymore and add it to any 2024 cruise.
@@JosephDickersonUX “glitch” I think they backtracked on what was on the site about refunding Q4 2024 FAS+ purchases. People were rightfully upset with the sudden change and how it was rolled out.
FAS+ gave the 2nd guest a $50 off discount on excursions. So the More at sea strips that 2nd guest excursion discount.
We had to check ourselves on this because we thought that the $50 Shore Excursion credit only applied to the 1st guest. Nothing has changed with this part of the product. As you can see in this fact sheet from Norwegian (www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/1899150-PRM-FAS-Flyer_v8-10112024.pdf), the shore excursion credit only applies to the 1st guest under Free at Sea.
25%?!?!?! Well, we've been warned. Will have to start doing some serious price comparisons now when picking cruises. 😞
Yes! When we modeled out each of our 2025 sailings, prices went up nearly $200 per sailing. Thankfully, we locked in prior to October 1, so we’ll enjoy Free at Sea along with the Premium Beverage Package - while saving some cash for onboard and port expenses! :)
Thanks for watching and commenting Kathy. Let us know what good deals you find out there!! -Mark
The problem I see is I expect the currently very limited connoisseur beverage list is going to expand *a lot*. I assume I won't be drinking $40-$50 Scotch for free like I could on Premium Plus.
We LOVED that feature of Premium Plus! Always felt so fancy enjoying a $50 drink! lol
And we can’t help but agree that the connoisseur list will likely expand under the new program. We’ll be on first week of January to find out for sure! Will keep you posted. :)
Thanks for watching and sharing your thought! -Mark
So, Im on a 25 day cruise next year and now my internet has gone from 300 mins to 150 mins? That kinda sucks. I dont see any benefits to this "upgrade" for us
Right? When they claim More internet, it’s actually not even true in your case or anyone that sails 12+ days. I mean, really: what is the point of taking that away on a 12+ day cruise? It’s almost insulting if you think about it. Telling you that it’s an upgrade and you get more and then giving you half. That’s probably the most frustrating part of the change for me.
With that said - 25 day cruise sounds amazing!!! Where are you going?? -Mark
@@thiscruiselife Ok, so I just spent a few minutes chatting with the AI bot on the NCL website and Jazmine says that my deal with the 300 minutes will be honored. I sure hope so! NCL has been pretty good to us so far... Anyways, yeah a 25 day from Tampa through the Panama Canal and up the other side all the way to Alaska with stops in Colombia, Panama, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, LA, SF, Oregon and a few more stops before we disembark in Whitttier! This is on the NCL Jade in April 2025.
I was pricing a cruise and couldn’t figure out how this was beneficial.
Some people like the idea of having everything "included" in their cruises rather than paying a la carte for everything. We always recommend price-checking your cruise both with and without More at Sea to determine if the perks/benefits will be worth it for you!
My refund for the Premium drink package was $280. ($140x2) Booked a 2/25 cruise in 8/23.
Hopefully that's what you paid for the premium drinks package. If it is, then they're doing what they promised, which is unfortunate. We'll be on one of the first full More at Sea sailings in January to check out the MORE drinks that are supposed to be included. So don't go too far from the channel. 😉
I paid more than $140/person. It was $340 each for premium. I ook forward to your findings.@thiscruiselife
I’ve always had a dilemma with NCL's Free at Sea program because they advertise it as free, but when you check out, they expect you to pay for all the gratuities. For example, the drink package is included, but you still have to pay gratuities for each day of the drink package, in addition to the regular gratuities you normally have to pay. On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises, with their All-Inclusive package, includes drinks and gratuities. So, I feel Celebrity is a bit more transparent with their pricing. I feel this new pricing strategy on NCL is more confusing and feels like it's nickel-and-diming
@@bryan6885 unfortunately we’ve seen a lot of that with NCL. When you have Free/More at Sea, you really do need to have a few drinks each day to make use of those gratuities that you’re “forced” to pay. It’s definitely sneaky of them which is why we always recommend reading through the T+C’s for any program offered by the cruise lines out there before participating. There’s so many intricacies.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts! -Rocky
Soooo many changes 😮
So many - and all at once! The one that they kind of snuck in without announcing it is the return to Cover Charges at the restaurants. They used to do this in 2016 before moving to the ala carte model. I’m guessing that didn’t make them the money they expected. Plus, even with Free at Sea, it still felt icky when you’d get the bill and it was $218 for two people to enjoy one meal. Really made everything about the experience feel price inflated. Will be interesting to watch the change roll out in January!
I have a cruise booked for 2026, and to rebook it with the More at Sea increases the price by $400.00. This is just another money grab by NCL.
OUCH! We've said, More at Sea is definitely going to cost you MORE. I'm sorry to hear that sizeable increase to your reservation. We don't plan to touch any of our bookings as a result of the price increase. We'd be looking at more than $800 in increase across our current bookings. Thankful that we're grandfathered in for 2025 sailings. -Mark
@@thiscruiselife I'm staying with the Free at Sea I have
If you booked BEFORE Oct. 1st, 2024, then you get both the "free at sea" AND the "more at sea" benefits. We also have a cruise booked for 2026. DO NOT cancel & re-book your cruise!
@@yvonnemeakin8707 I'm not cancelling. I want this even with the FAS
@@thiscruiselife its nice to see that you are grandfathered in for 2025. We have a cruise later this month that was originally scheduled on the getaway. However, they cancelled the getaway as it is going to the Caribbean earlier than was previously expected. So we were forced to rebook a different cruise. in our old cruise we booked a balcony with the thermal spa included. they removed the thermal suite but we were grandfathered. however, since we were forced to cancel and rebook under a new cruise, we were no longer grandfathered for the spa suite. so even though we have the exact same size cabin at eh same part of the new booking, we have to pay an additional $1100 for the 2 of us to receive the thermal spa package. NCL is really starting to piss me off with all of the nickel and diming yet they are recording record profits to shareholders!
Booked in sept for jan and they upgraded me per email at no charge.
What was the upgrade that you received? You should have both Free at Sea and More at Sea for your January cruise. Curious what other perks they threw in your direction!
Two changes more at sea
10 day ocean view now get 2 day specialty dinning
And no buying extra specialty dinners so money back
Still doing 5 dinners
The one nice thing that came from this change is the Cover Charges as the specialty restaurants instead of it being a la carte. Makes the dining experiences a little more affordable with the sunset of the pre-purchased dining packages.
So many changes! An example of how having a great travel advisor can really help a client unwrap the spinning changes!
It's so true, Brian! A good travel advisor does all the research and legwork ahead of time so that there aren't surprises when these types of changes strike. It's been interesting reading the NCL groups today. Multiple comments from cruisers like, "My travel advisor is so frustrated, he had no idea what these changes meant and will call me back once he can get through to someone at Norwegian." While no TA can know every change or detail, one that's passionate about cruising and follows the industry (obsesses?) will likely have more insider information up front. :) -Mark
RC is $79 a day NC is way cheaper even with the increase
We’ve never understood RCL’s drink package pricing! It varies based on trip and can exceed $100/person/day. Personally, can’t fathom paying as much for drinks as I pay for the cruise! (Tho, $100/day cruise fares seem to be a thing of the past!) The best deal out there for a drinks package today is consistently MSC. Itineraries price out less expensive and the add on for a booking with drinks isn’t that much more than the base fare. All of our MSC sailings next year have drinks - and they’re all significantly less expensive than NCL. Of course, MSC isn’t everyone’s favorite either, so it’s all in what you enjoy and what you’re willing to pay.
Thanks for watching and the comment! -Mark
Glad I just missed the boat on these changes LOL.
Haha- does that mean you locked in the less expensive version of Free at Sea? If not, More will definitely cost you more! 😜 -m
@@thiscruiselife just returned from my Alaska cruise. Not sure I will cruise NCL again.
It's all smoke!
It's all part of being a business. They need to make sure that they're able to cover the costs of goods onboard, and if that means getting creative with wording and programs, they'll do it. May not always benefit the passenger, which is why it's important to familiarize yourself with any program changes for the cruise line you'll be sailing.
The claim upgraded premium drinks, but where's the list? They refuse to provide a list to see if it's actually upgraded. I'd prefer to stay with my FAS+ package I paid for, that they refuse to honor. I pay for what I want. A deal should be a deal.
@@Derek1105 we agree with your frustration about the new inclusions. They are so proud of the new transparency, but it’s only applicable to certain items in the new program apparently. It’s why we booked one of the first sailings after the introduction of More At Sea, in January, so stay tuned for more details as we find them!
Hire an accountant when you book your cruise. Got it.
Haha. Practically!
I am so unhappy with this change. We always get FAS Plus which included Water, Pelligreno, Starbucks, and Champaign, and Bottles of Wine at restaurants breakfast, lunch and dinner). Not to mention Unlimited Wi-Fi, 4 Specialty dining and $50 0ff Shore Excursions for passengers 1,2 and gratuities are inculded. So I tip cash on top.
It is now a flat rate for specialty dining instead of al'carte. I never eat at the buffet only the restaurants and will purchase 4+ additional dining prior to barding depending on the length of my cruise.
I never been duped by basic Free at Sea (too many limitations) and never utilized the air perk -- we're loyat to our airline carrier and I cannot fathom 3-4 people in any cabin even a balcony or a suite.
This now means I have to spend more money with More at Sea.
@@dmoniquerenee all of your concerns are totally valid. Definitely a huge change to the program which is why we wanted to share the details. It will be interesting to see how the mass public responds to it and if there will be more changes coming.
While we loved getting to purchase the extra dining package outside of FAS, it’ll be interesting to see how the new “Cover Charge” is implemented on the ships.
Thank you so much for watching our video and sharing your thoughts. -Rocky
@@thiscruiselife 💞
Other company’s offer drink package some $90 pp per day. Ncl still a good deal
New package $200 more
On a $5,000 cabin no big deal
It's all about perspective, right? At least there isn't a cap on how many drinks you can have in 1 day!
They wanted $880 to upgrade to More at Sea because I have a really cheap price. I booked a year out. RIP off
@@NicoleZurschmiede wow! Is it a longer itinerary? That’s quite a jump in price for More at Sea.
3rd and 4th guests never sailed free. The cost was simply added to the first 2.
We always air quote the “free” as nothing is truly free with this program. More at Sea actually is a more appropriate name, in my opinion. Thanks for watching! -Mark
NCL is totally out of control on service cuts and price increases. Love the Haven but will be moving to Celebrity for a more all inclusive fare. ps.. Highest paid CEO in the biz.
Yes we will be leaving the haven and ncl behind as well, because of these changes. We loved included starbucks, cans of cocoa cola, bottled water and we only drink premium. This years trip was most likely our last one and we are now platinum. 😢
@@markw639 we totally hear that! You may want to consider checking out MSC Yacht Club, too! We met several individuals when we sailed in the YC who said they’ve experienced The Heaven and The Retreat and the Yacht Club far overshadows both programs! Check out our full review of the experience on the channel!
ruclips.net/video/lXPE0SSa--4/видео.html
That sucks.
The price increases are definitely a bummer. We modeled out a couple of our reservations and each one is about $200 more due to the increased beverage package charge and dining package charge. Thankfully, we booked them prior to October 1, so we're grandfathered in with the current pricing and program while getting access to More at Sea! So, for those that are already booked, it's a win. For new bookings, More is going to cost you more.
Just when you think you have done your homework and made sense of what you want and picked the right package(s). This is a vacation that's becoming more work than work. Lame.
So true! Historically, cruise lines give some advance notice so that folks can plan. This was announced on October 1 and any booking after took on the new terms and pricing (2025 and beyond). This is likely due to the fact that if they provided advanced notice, a lot of folks would have booked under current program and NCL would have lost out on a bunch of revenue that More at Sea will bring in. There’s little doubt in our minds that this change isn’t because of “guest feedback” - rather, it’s a financial move that will bring in a considerable amount of new revenue.
Hope the cruise is amazing, regardless of these changes! -Mark
Guys....guys it was NEVER FREE!!!
The costs were tacked on the fare!
Come on man you know this, nothing is FREE!!
@@nmraidernation.6092 so very true. And now it’s even MORE! From a branding perspective, More at Sea doesn’t lead folks to believe it’s free like the previous program did, so that’s good. But you definitely will pay more for more! -Mark
WHAT'S SO FUNNY???????????????????? WHY DO YOU LAUGH TO YOURSELF???????????????????????????????????????????
I’ll have to re-watch as I’m not sure which part we found funny. But I do admit we do like to laugh. Life’s too short not to enjoy it!
Thanks for watching! -Mark
Ya this is garbage.
There's a lot of change in this program that NCL has marketed as "more" but as several followers have pointed out, it's going to cost a lot more. One person shared that their same itinerary was now $400 more under the new program. Ouch. Most of ours range between $170-$200 more expensive just based on the new daily fees. That doesn't even account for having to purchase a bottled water package, Starbucks, etc.
Do you have any NCL sailings already on the books? We're thankful to have Free At Sea grandfathered in for our 2025 sailings. We'll have to evaluate beyond that... -Mark
Free at sea was a scam. It wasn't free. Tips for the booze package was not free and cost more than the booze
@@1decee it’s why we always recommend that cruisers do some homework on the various packages onboard before deciding to purchase to ensure it all makes sense, especially from a fiscal perspective.
The only reason they're doing this is they're going bankrupt
@@keeperzero the pandemic definitely made it difficult for all of the cruise lines to succeed, creating lots and lots of debt. However we haven’t heard anything about Norwegian going bankrupt. Bookings are up across all of the major cruise lines.
Wow. Not great changes.
Yeah, it does seem that cruisers will be paying more for less. Some perks - like internet minutes for everyone in the cabin - are nice. But they only apply to a limited amount of cruisers. And even with that benefit, they give up to an extra 150 minutes per person… hardly seems like a great addition. ;) Just one more way to collect more. -m
@@thiscruiselife I am booked for January 2025 and received notification today about the change . I was curious what all the changes ment. I appreciate you clarifying. I still like NCL but will look into other cruise lines.
These guy’s are hilarious and obviously sponsored by NCL.. 😂
The Norwegian is a “has been” and does NOT deliver. Period.
They have been cutting of staff and entertainment onboard whilst stnthe same time increasing their prices, however, the CEO is the highest paid in the field.
NCL does not know the meaning of “customer service” and their team of “guest relations” are both grumpy and unhelpful.
Stay away from NCL they are far from being up to standard!
Sounds like you’ve not had a great experience with NCL; I’m sorry to hear that. With that said, I’m not sure how you made the connection to us sharing out these changes and price increases as being sponsored by the cruise line? ;)
Make no mistake, More at Sea is a financial play. We did multiple mock bookings and heard from several followers that it’s much more expensive under the new program. And some of the claims of “more” feel a bit misleading (check out our in-depth review of all the changes on thiscruiselife dot com).
There’s a lot that NCL gets right, however, and a lot that we’ve loved about our experiences on board. And the cruise line has a loyal following. While I am bummed to hear about your experience of the line not delivering, this doesn’t seem to be the case across the board.
Hopefully, you’ll find another line out there that takes better care of you. Let us know if you need any recommendations!
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. -Mark
I just booked a cruise for this year last week. It was cheaper by far than one in March, but the free at sea is chaeper than more at sea would be in March.
As you noted, getting 3 meals ( solo balcony, 15 days) cost 27, next year I would get 5 for 100. I would rather have 63 bucks in my pocket.
The drink package was already more than 'al a cart' for me, I have feeling that this will lose them money as all non alcoholic drinkers will opt out. I may have gave it a shot, but not at all happening now.
As for the internet, I have the 300 min, and it not steaming 300, on longer cruises, I will be buying package anyway, so no loss for me. on a shorter one I did with the free min ad it did work, but the upgrade is almost always going to happen.
This is NCL always trying to nibble your money., I liked the old one better as it was cheaper and don't forget they have the highest regular gratuities in the business already.
Thanks for sharing your experiences with their program. We are definitely seeing NCL asking for more money from passengers by disguising it in these Free/More at Sea programs. It's goo to do your research ahead of time and know what you're getting in the long run. We do appreciate that More at Sea can be piecemealed to build it for how you like, but it's just so frustrating how they approach the matter.