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This past summer, I was on Explorer of the Seas and on the first day, the captain made the following announcement: "Keep in mind that the chairs around the pool are MY chairs and I say you cannot reserve them." Great captain!
@@billybenson3834 - I don't like paying for the most basic amenity. It's like being charge extra to use the toilet, take a shower, or use the heat or A/C in my cabin. Wi-Fi should be included!
Yup. Anyone who knows anything at all about wi-fi and the spectrum bands within which it operates knows that the "navigational interference" line is pure BS (this goes for wi-fi on airlines as well). This is just another ploy to prevent guests from avoiding the cruise lines' extortionate wi-fi service charges.
I completely agree with the limit on food at dinner. I watched a woman order 5 entrees and take 2 bites of each. When questioned she said, I paid for it. Ridiculous. People like her need rules because they have no morals
kind of disagree. Yes they paid for it. you pay for all inclusive when on a cruise. I could understand like a clean plate rule, where you can get unlimited food as long as you are finishing most of the plate, but an outright limit means they should be charging less.
Love, love, love the chair hog monitoring! So many times we see pool lounge chairs saved and nobody using them for hours. I wish resorts would be more strict with this policy as well. 🎉🎉Happy New Year 🎉🎉
It is sad that all these bans have to be implemented because some people just do not care about their fellow human beings. Never fails that someone will do something to ruin it for the rest of us.
Hope they continue to monitor chair hogs at pool. It is tough for pool deck workers tho. Saw it on Holland Amer cruise. People that had their items moved gave crew a hard time. But they had been away for more than an hour during busy, crowded time.
There needs to be some turn over of seating at pools but the problem stems from lack of capacity in popular areas. They want the revenue from 4000-6000 passengers but comparatively small pool areas etc….
The boombox ban is great as far as I’m concerned. Mainly because at night if a neighboring cabin plays their music late or all night, it is hard to sleep.
I thought a boombox was an obsolete (besides annoying) technology with earbuds being so good now. I don't want to hear whatever you call music (usually bass thumping interminably).
@@budguy21 I don’t think anyone is too old to enjoy music. But I don’t particularly like some music, and I will listen to most music. But if someone’s music is loud and not my favorite genre and plays all night I do become upset. The couple could have listened with head phones or earbuds if they wanted all night music. I personally turn my TV off by 10 pm so any of my neighbors are trying to sleep I don’t disturb them. I don’t complain when I’m on vacation but the next day I asked the couple to lower the volume on their radio at night. All that did was make them play it louder at night. They thought that was cute I guess. I had asked politely. So that is why I agree with the ban.
@@DonnaDavis-l1u LMAO, if I'm partying with friends in my room I'm not putting on headphones. The fact that you're going to bed at 10pm means you should find a cruise thats for senior citizens.
I took my first cruise as an adult on the Icon of the Seas in December. I purchased so many of your recommended cruise must-haves before I went. I also met so many people from around the world, but one lady I met, we were talking and I was telling her about your RUclips page and she watches you also!!! Thank you for all the good information you give about cruising.
@@Barry-k4c how are you going to tip the chef, the guy who washes the plates, the butcher, the laundry attendant, the cleaners ect, i do personally think the fares should just increase the $20 a day and not be called any charge, what they then call that wages , tips, grats internally i do not care, however it may be done the way it is for tax reasons.
Chair hogs …. One of my pet peeves. I was on a Carnival cruise last January. My friends and I were on an upper deck enjoying the view, sun and chatting. Chairs with items on them were unattended for nearly 2 hours. Ugh
Love the transparent pricing, there’s been a few occasions where I’d start to book a cruise and by the time they added all the hidden fees on I said forget it, to expensive.
I remember trying to book a flight to Hanoi and had the same experience. My mum found $50 flights to Vietnam and we both had valid passports so decided to go over a long weekend. The fees kept piling on for seat selection, taxes, luggage, and had multiple legs. By the time the ticket got to $500 each we hadn’t finished the booking process and gave up.
I can certainly understand the boombox ban. Back in the mid-90’s we were on a cruise where we could not enjoy the pool deck because of the competing boomboxes blaring music, with every box playing different music at max volume. It was absolute chaos.
I did a great walk here in NZ and a group of day walkers had a boombox with them at full volume. I was so angry as we were in a beautiful forest full of bird sounds and nature and then here comes that lot with their perpetual need to fill there world with noise. I prefer the peace and quiet of nature not a rap song
Hi, former Royal Caribbean employee and contractor here. answer for the power bar here: the electrical systems on their ships are ridiculously delicate. The power bars will spark a fire or short out your whole cabin upon plugging it in. I've seen it happen. Banning power bars is an electrical fire prevention rule.
@@bandit1blue01079 If you travel on Royal they will set it up for you to charge each night. The phone and hearing aides need to use either regular plug outlet on the desk or a USB port to charge. We just brought a USB adaptor with 4 usb ports on Dec cruise to charge our phones and my nebulizer and had no issues. There was a regular plug on the desk with a few outlets, one behind the bed and a USB near the phone so, it's definately doable. Also if you are renting your scooter check both companies Royal recommends Special needs at sea and scooteraround. Ive used special needs at sea a few times. They deliver and pick up and never charge extra fees. Their price even includes tax and insurance. This last cruise they were $95 cheaper than scooterarond for the same 8 day cruise.
The last cruise we were on, one of the other diners ordered everything on the menu. “Because she wanted to try it all”. She took one bite of everything - it was extremely wasteful. PS - she criticized everything. Now, I want on one with 4 others, we all ordered different things and shared. That worked well.
My husband and I took my parents on a cruise and my dad's most memorable moment was when he got 3 lobsters at dinner!! He got one, and I asked for another for him. He was ecstatic!! I saw so happy he was that I gave him my lobster!! He was like a little kid in a candy store!
Can relate it took me 2 6-8 week world cruise segments to work up the courage to ask for a second lobster tail - grew up lived in a rural area and had never had one before so you get two one night thought I had done something really wicked! I didn’t leave anything on my plate so mo wastage- had friends tells me that took alcohol in water bottles and thought they were real clever so posted it and got busted
I do not like the new rule of unopened drinks for loyalty guests. I should be able to go to a bar and get a couple drinks to enjoy on my balcony later in the evening.
It depends on what you gift them. If it's your grandma's lime jello sauerkraut mold, then yeah, that's definitely a gift that would make the recipient think that you hate them.
One thing we love about Royal Caribbean is if you get the non-alcoholic drink package only 1 person in the stateroom can order it. It isn't required of all over 21 in the stateroom. Now the alcoholic drink package must be bought by all in the stateroom which I'm not a huge fan of because one person may not drink while the other does and now they're forced to buy it or not buy it depending on how the compromise works. Thanks for the great tips!!
"Now the alcoholic drink package must be bought by all in the stateroom which I'm not a huge fan of because one person may not drink..." Call up the cruise line and explain your reasoning. They have granted exceptions before.
We never use cruise pools or hot tubs, you know people can’t drink for hours with out having g to pee. And rarely do we see people getting out. The whole thing grosses me out.
100% agreed also. I mentioned that in another channel as well. I went on a cruise and saw the same people for along time in the hot tub drink and never getting out. Nasty.
I can understand why they don’t want drinking in the pool. The drinks can easily be spilled into the pool. Yet, I was on the MSC Meraviglia this past November. I was in the first row of lounge chairs next to the pool. I was lounging while reading a book and drinking a cup of coffee. Security told me I couldn’t drink anything by the pool. So I had to step aside just a few feet over to finish my coffee. Meanwhile, the people in the lounge chairs directly behind me were eating a full breakfast with drinks and nothing was said to them. So, that made no sense.
This has happened to me as well. The hot tubs were full of kids not behaving and we could never find a time they weren't there. It made the adult area hot tub full all the time so we just didn't get to go in a hot tub last cruise.
I totally agree with No Kids in the Hot Tubs. The last cruise I was on there were kids (aged 8-12) constantly in the hot tub and the parents didn't care. So many Adult passengers wanted to use the hot tub. I got fed up and just Got into the hot tub.....the kids did not like the Old Lady in the hot tub and so they all got out Yay!
Fully agree! Seen it too many times! A classic hot tub issue we had.. not in the adults hot tub though… our 10 y/o son was in the main pool , that hot tub was somewhat attached to the pool. The tub was full of drunk/drinking people, next thing I knew something went flying from the tub area into the pool. That ‘Something’ was a beer can and it HIT my son in the head! The tub people thought it was so funny🤬 STAFF didn’t do a dang thing about it too!!
I don't really have an issue with any of these since I can understand the "why" that may have caused each change. Maybe I'm just easy-going, or I want the cruiselines to do what they need to and make sure it stays a viable affordable vacation choice!🤗
On #11, the food limit. I think it has to do with people ordering many items and then sample them and leave most as waste. Honestly you also see this with drinks where people take a sip and walk away and order something else as well. I would actually think it is better to rules that if you order more than 1 item from each part of the menu and leave it mostly untouched you will be charged a fee for wastage. Similarly in the buffet where you see people piling on food and only eat a part of it. All that waste is a cost and drives up the price for all the guests.
Dietary reasons. I can’t eat very many carbs or sugars anymore. This eliminates most sides that come with meals. I like to order 2 entrees, like grilled chicken and a steak, And maybe two appetizers A salad and a shrimp, cocktail.
this, putting a limit on the food is just kind of scammy. You paid for it as part of the cruise. A fee like they do in some buffets for leaving behind food would be a much better solution. And for the samplers who like to use the restaurant to try new foods maybe offer a sampling platter as an option. There are many solutions they could have tried but the limit is just them trying to cut costs without cutting your costs.
This is what THEY said passenger can do. Is it wasteful, perhaps. But when you’re on vacation, one you paid for, you are in a different wasteful mindset.
13:08 on our recent cruise in Dec, somebody was trying to bring a bowl of fruit to eat inside the jacuzzi. Staff quickly told them they can’t have it. And then they complained about it after. Some ppl are just rude and think they should be allowed to do whatever they want
We don't really drink much alcohol but I do like soda and my husband doesn't. So it's a pain that we both have to buy a package. The last couple cruises we didn't even get a drink package at all. Cheaper that way.
I got talked into a drink package on my last cruise. It was the first time I ever got one - same for the friend who went with me. We both quickly realized that it would have been cheaper for us to buy our own drinks. I don't know how anyone can drink enough to justify it.
@@elisaastorino2881I have wondered how many of those people who fall off cruise ships were heavily intoxicated trying to get their money's worth from that drink package
On Princess, I was told that once your board the ship, you can go to guest services and only get one package, don’t need to buy one for each passenger. You can’t do it when booking the cruise
I just want to thank you for all of your content. After watching you and a few other channels, I have FINALLY booked my first cruise! 🎉 I will now be seriously binge watching all of your content for more tips and tricks. It’s nice to get the information from a fellow Canadian. Again, thank you!
We just got back from a Southeast Asia cruise on Celebrity and their was a picture taken of a "chair hog" and posted it on the Facebook page for our trip, there was a towel draped over both chairs, a book on one and a hat on the other. Someone did report it to the steward, as it had been hours before anyone came around, the steward basically said, they can't remove any "personal" items from the chairs...other people commented and said, "they would throw the items overboard!"...lol...
I have actually used chair hog chairs. I just put their belongings under the chair. No one has ever questioned me. I am ready with a polite comeback if they do appear though
I kind of get the "no sharing drinks" rule for things like alcohol.... But if I am getting a smoothie, and my 4 year-old wants a sip of it, i'm gonna let him have a sip of it. I'm not gonna pay for an entire drinks package for a 4 year old who only wants a sip of my juice
Good point!! .. It's very traditional (in all cultures) especially for MOMS, to share with little kids, ....Cruises try to make you pay for a "minors drink package" from age 3 ad up .. this should be a higher age .. like maybe 9 or 10 ...
That's not the sharing they mean. They DON'T want people ordering a drink, then coming back in 5 minutes and ordering another for their partner. That's why limits are in place too.
Part of the reason they are not allowing multi plugs is the receptacles they have in the cabins can handle so many amps , so when you add a multi plug you have a possibility of increasing the load that the cabin receptacles can handle.
We just returned from a Caribbean cruise (Jan 2025) on Celebrity. Our non-surge power bars were confiscated, but we got them back at the end of the trip. My husband and I use C-pap machines, and on the cruise we took in September 2024, they had difficulties finding power bars for both our machines, so I bought one for the Caribbean cruise. Once again, they had problems finding enough power bars to accommodate us on the Caribbean cruise, even though I had made the request on the September and Caribbean cruise.
Carnival's price increase for water is my most hated change. Carnival said their policy of not allowing guests to bring bottles of water onboard was offset by the low pricing of water onboard, but that has changed. Carnival has massively increased the price of water bottles to an outrageous price.
Or just drink the water from the tap. Most cruise ships have advanced water filtration systems that make the water not only safe to drink but also taste as good as if not better than most bottled (or canned) waters. I've never bought or brought water on a cruise ship.
I took two cruises about ten years ago. I found my own solution for chair hogs. I just put their towels on another hogs’ chair and made myself comfortable. You shoulda seen the shocked look on their faces. Being from New York City my reaction was ‘so waddya gonna do about it?’ No problem there.
The chair hog policy needs too be implemented on all ships especially on sea days. Going out and all of the chairs covered in towels with no one around is annoying.. Had to lay out on the most secluded out of the way area because of that.
The unopened alcohol beverages is ridiculous. Previously we have enjoyed a closed beer from our mini refrigerator in our cabin. We pay the extra money for those drinks and should be able to consume when and where we like.
This is a good point, It would be easy to implement, Diamond Level passengers could have separate drink rules .... then regular "drink package" customers, for example.
The rule is absolutely ridiculous. It has taken years for us to reach Diamond plus status and now they're acting like big brother and limiting us. If we want to spill our drink down the sink that should be our perogative. Anyway we should be able to get our drinks anytime and take them anywhere we want without being treated like a first grader
Chair Hogs problem "MUST" be taken seriously and resolved. On a very recent cruise my wife and I not only saw abuse of chairs hogged by items left on them, we saw far worse. We saw a group of 6 people (three couples) and they actually had 12 chairs tied up. They would move from one area of the pool deck perhaps for a little more shade to another location on the same pool deck with more sun. And they looked so smug and entitled. The Chair Hog problem ruins vacation for untold numbers of people.
The rule that impacts me the most is the one where everyone in the suite needs the drinks package. I travel with my wife and child, and I have even gone on a short trip with just my child. My wife doesn't drink. My child doesn't either, obviously. I cannot justify the cost of a package for all three of us when only one can partake/imbibe. So, for all of my cruises, I just buy drinks onboard. Best deal is the "oil can" Fosters for $10 (plus 18% mandatory gratuity for handing the can to you) for a total of $11.80. It's more than double, at 750mL, the size of a normal beer, 355mL...that's 25.2 vs 12 oz for those who don't understand metric.
I've never heard of any cruise line that requires purchasing an alcoholic drink package for guests in the cabin under 21. They may force you to purchase a soda package (since you get sodas as well with the alcoholic packages), however those are significantly less expensive.
@@jasongill6979 On Princess Cruises, one of the packages that gets sold is called "Princess Plus". That includes gratuity, drinks and wifi for $60USD per person, per day. It is a set price. If you decide to get it, *everyone in the suite* needs to get it. Everyone includes children.
@@jasongill6979If you need specifics, on Princess Cruises, there are two packages. Both include wifi, gratuities and drinks. Plus is $60 per person per day. Premier is $90 per person per day. The problem is that everyone in the same room needs to get the package. So, for my family of three, Plus is $180 per day and i am the only one who drinks. It never makes sense for my situation.
@@jasongill6979, I don’t drink alcohol & I don’t drink enough soda to justify buying a soda package. I’d rather pay twice what I should for one can/bottle a day than pay for 4 or 5 a day.
I phoned Princess for our last cruise and they told me to wait until we board and guest services will allow only one of us to buy a package. I don’t drink alcool, coffee or sodas so makes no sense for both of us to get a package
The only thing I thought was really bad with a "chair hog" policy, we had a Casita reserved for the DAY. And just during the time that we went to dinner, which of course is a couple hours, they didn't want to save it up to the sunset time. And that's a nice time to really get to see the view from up above. But I was spending those last moments of daylight just trying to round up my personal items that were grabbed up and taken to their towel area (including my own personal towel I had brought). Casitas are the areas that are over $200 to rent for the day. So I was so shocked! Not good way to handle it. Other than that, great Cruise, RC Odessey!
i have never been on a cruise. but after watching this video, i will never go. too many rules. the last thing when i am on vacation is worry about breaking rules or not. jeez.
No drinks in the pool maybe because drunk people tend to get sloppy and spill their drinks. I’m pretty sure if that happens they have to drain the pool and refill it. I’m just speculating though. 🥰
On Virgin Voyages, you can share your bar tab as much as you want. Also, no need to bring on cases of water because still and sparkling water are included and are supplied to your cabins in carafes.
That's because Virgin have a totally different way of "buying" drinks. You load your card and pay for drinks, so if you choose to buy someone a drink that's fair enough. They don't do packages.
@ They also give you free bar tab with certain promotions. We have been on 12 Virgin Voyages. On our next one, transatlantic from San Juan to Barcelona, we have $700 free Bar Tab and $700 free Loot (can be used for drinks, gift shop, excursions, tattoos, spa, whatever).
@@staciebrooks1328 Virgin Voyages is leading in many aspects. Was on Resilient Lady in May 2024 in Europe. Adults only, Gratuities included, all Restaurants included, drinks on a Tab just like on land, Water included, no photography department. Loved it, did not like the entertainment so much but rest was fun. Not many drunk people as no unlimited drink packages was great.
We have taken drinks into the hot tubs. Nobody has said not to. Chair hogs are getting our of control. On our last cruise, I watched a lady put her stuff on chairs and left. She never showed up later, and I wasn't going to wait and see how long it would be.
I had to rescue a man on a scooter when he was trying to get passed the cleaning supplies from the cabin stewards. He couldn’t get around it, so I was able to jostle the supplies to help him get down the aisle.😊
There's also a 4-Hour period from 2:30 a.m. until 6:30 a.m. on the Carnival cruises that you can't get anything to eat without paying to order room service
@ On RC, most everything is closed except for room service from about midnight until 5am when coffee cafe opens...Pizza is not available 24/7 especially on older ships without a sorrentos. You can only get up in the solarium and they have limited hours.
I sailed with Costa Cruises, They did monitor sun loungers around the decks, and if unoccupied for an hour all goods TOWELS/BOOKS/GLASSES/ ETC were removed and could be collected from, a central area When you returned and found your lounger occupied by A.N.OTHER :-)
Speaking from a service industry perspective ( bartender for 10+yrs) the open bottle policy is so minors aren’t given alcoholic beverages in the cabin or sharing free drinks with someone who may have been cut off by bar staff for already being over intoxicated. # 11 rule is strictly because if a beverage is spilled in the pool its contamination liability.
@ and if a guest is over served and injures themselves another adult or heaven forbid a child on said cruise , that’s a severe lawsuit , and yes bar staff do “give a hoot” how drunk you are, it’s their butt if they are caught overserving
@@jamiemorrison9212the fact that drink packages include 15-17 drinks a day proves me correct as that many drinks would cause severe intoxication in most anyone
@@pariwinklz Exactly! I want to try new things on the cruise that I would not try here at home, at in the MDR is where I take the chance to do that. I want to try that weird fancy food as I payed for it and if I don't like it or the sides, ect now I only have 2 times to get it right b4 being charged more money. I dont want to eat the buffet, I can do that at home far cheaper. They just need to get the people breaking all these riles, Im so tired of all these changes. We have not been on a cruise since 2019, and been so many changes it seems since then :(
@@BelindaSyjud this is why they should have a fee for not finishing a bunch of plates at one sitting and at the same time should have a sampler platter of the dishes on offer that night. People like to sample a variety of the dishes just to try them, so instead of limiting just make a new menu item to service those people. The fact they went straight to a plate limit says they are trying to reduce their own costs without reducing the cruisers cost. Its scummy cooperate greed.
I think the opened alcohol thing is because they’re worried people could also be sneaking alcohol off the ship as well. Btw I love this top on you and your hair always looks great. :)
Its crazy that at the higher levels of loyalty RCCL give you 4-5 drinks a day complimentary. I wish CCL would up their perks for us higher tier cruisers. I mean like even 5 free drinks for the whole cruise for Platinum and like 1 free drink a day for Diamond.
@@LifeWellCruised This is one comment of you I didn't understand. Of course sniffer dogs are now more present in cruise terminals for detecting illegal substances. And marijuana is not federally approved nor in some other countries. Cruise ships pass through international water so of course they have to adhere to it.
@@Gybing i had never seen them in the terminal at embarkation - this was on my 40th cruise, so I can only share from this perspective. I never said they don’t use them or shouldn’t
what is a private company going to do at disembarkation? They have no arrest powers or search powers if the trip is done can't you just tell them f off and walk away
Hi Illana! Great video ☺️👍🏽 My friend and I called RC a few months ago to ask some questions. One was about the Drink Package: Does EVERYONE in the same Cabin/Suite HAVE TO purchase it because she doesn’t drink that much, And the response was, NO. So, it really doesn’t hurt to ASK 😉👍🏽 Hugs from Colorado 🏞️🌄🌌🥰🤗
So you can't afford 5 min of your time so someone can get a buzz?Or possibly smoke something that allows you to sleep? Would you rather have a group of noisy drunks talking loud at 2am.Have a little toleranceThe marijuana we have today only requires a puff or two,you can handle that can't you?
I brought a bunch of Advent calendars on my cruise for the crew. I had a dozen or more, handed them out to some crew, and gave the rest to my steward to place in the crew cafe. They loved it. Of course the calendars were still in the wrappers.
We just sailed with a couple who both use Cpap machines. There were no outlets near the bed. They had packed one extension cord but had to request another from the steward. I can't imagine banning extension cords for medical equipment
We recently brought extension cords without surge protectors for Oxegen machine and Cpap on Royal. They put them through testing and allowed us to bring it on board. They have to have strict rules about this for fire and safety. Going forward we will be using what the ship provides. Tavel agent also informs them we are bringing the equipment. No big deal. 🛳️ **If their cords were banned possibly they were not safe to use on the boat.
Its because they need to be tested for safety. The other problem is so many people are bringing half their house and trying to plug it in, it overloads the electrical system on the ship
My husband and I both use CPAP machines. We were told the ship would provide an extension cord, as only one side of the bed had a plug. Imagine our surprise when the cord provided was a surge-protected extension cord!
Scooters do not belong in the hallways! My husband uses a folding power wheelchair and it is impossible to go down the hallway with scooters there. I have had to knock on doors asking them to move the scooter.
Happy new year cruisers 28 days til our first cruise ever sun princess can't wait thank you illana we have enjoyed your content since we first booked very helpful looking forward to a great 2025 and wishing same for All
As for #11, I get it. There is enough food to choose from: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and (on at least some lines) afternoon tea. So only getting two main dishes at a meal is not a big deal.
I can tell you the water bottle thing has a loop. If you call the cruise line, ask to bring the case of water as it's a medical reason they do allow it. I took a cruise in Nov on Royal Caribbean and had no problem bringing a case in a carry on as requested. We are doing the 22 day cruise in Sept on Carnival so I'll let you know!
It is exactly because of these loopholes that things get banned for the people who really need it. Anyone taking bottles of water onboard used to be great until RUclips creators highlight this was a great way to get bootleg alcohol onboard so it got banned for everyone. Hey, you can still do it if you claim it is on medical grounds... Cue widespread abuse, cue getting banned even for medical use. People may then complain that this is dangerous as they NEED that water but the cruise line wouldn't have banned you from having water, only taking your own through. For the people who need it they would supply it (just like on a plane you cannot take your own small water bottle through security but you can get a much bigger bottle once you are through security as they are sure that actually has water in it)
Regarding opening beer to prevent minors drinking back in the cabin... Good job that it is only unopened beer they may try back there & an opened beer (or any other drink) they wouldn't touch.
I protested when bar staff opened my can at a club, because of drink spiking, either by staff or on the way back to the table. I don’t accept opened drinks from people I don’t know.
As a certified pool operator I can tell you that pool water is not normal water. There are chemicals like chlorine that kill pathogens but there are other chemicals added so that the water feels good to your skin and is not damaging to your skin. Other chemicals are added to ensure that the water does not damage the pool or the pool equipment. So, if you or a bunch of you spill your drinks in the pool water it becomes difficult for the operator to balance the chemistry. The pool I operate has a no drinks, food or smoking around the pool. If someone throws up or defecates in our pool it will probably be closed for 3 days while we deal with the contaminates.
Cruise ships use seawater to fill the pools every morning and empty them in the middle of the night when they are not in use. They can't be using that many chemicals and dumping them into the ocean when they are done. I don't know if they circulate the water during the day to keep it cleaner, but lots of pools these days are salt water. I am pretty sure that spilling a bunch of alcohol into the pool with small children in it is not good. Also, it forces adults to not occupy the pool all day and circulate in and out of the pool.
The smoking part I agree and it it should be having a certain area of boats that people can so it won’t blow over to other people who don’t smoke and not enjoy their time
@@LifeWellCruised one time about a year ago, people were smoking on the balcony next to us… I reported it to the cabin steward. When he knocked on their door, the man got up, left his cig burning on the table , answered the door saying ‘oh no we aren’t smoking ‘🤯 Then the steward came back to my door I quietly walked him to our balcony door so he could smell for himself! The steward called Security, when they showed up the fool next to us TOSSED the cig over the rail and went to answer the door! I think there was a fine he had to pay.
@@LifeWellCruised Honestly they should ban smoking. I don't think people realize what it is like for someone with asthma to get a whiff of smoke from someone smoking. I don't care about them vaping in special areas because that doesn't cause me to have an attack. Also seems a little safer than having lit cigarettes on ships, because God knows smokers don't know how to put them out properly. They throw them lit on the ground and walk away.
I know for people with health issues, cigarette smoke is hazardous and it should be limited to certain area, but what's worse is people smoking on balconies. And when security comes, they try to eliminate the evidence by tossing over the rail? That is fire hazard! The cigarette butt can land on another balcony and start a fire! I am more concerned about that on the cruise. I'd rather have them smoke in their state room than on balcony.
Australia made it a requirement many years ago that ALL 'listed shelf' prices across the country must be what the customer pays. My first visit to the USA was a head scratcher. 🤔
@@MichaelMollard fully agree. It just feels going back in time when in the US, and most Cruiselines, in terms of “add-on” taxes and must do expected 10-20% tips on top of the advertised prices. Be transparent in pricing and give a decent salary to the staff. Then tip ONLY for exceptional service. Australia is an example that the US should follow.
Cruising has gotten so damn complicated. Why not spend 1/3 the money and spend a week in a huge suite with your own pool at a killer all -inclusive. Eat and drink what you want, when you want and watch the sunrise from your own pool. Win/win/win
I like to gamble and I was on the Carnival Liberty out of NOLA this past May and last month for 7 night cruises. One thing I noticed was there were a LOT more security guards in the casino on this past trip. One rude action some people will do is play one machine and hold the machine beside it so no one else can use it. I saw one couple get escorted out cursing because of doing this and I had another lady ready to fight over someone asking to play a machine that she was "saving". Also, had a lady arrested for being caught using counterfeit money to play. We will be cruising again in April out of Jacksonville and we will see what happens.
Hi, Ilana!!🙋🏽♀️ I am a new subscriber. I will be going on my 1st cruise later this year, for my 60th birthday (Better late, than never)😁. I just want to thank you for all the information you share in your videos. They have been a great benefit to me. I was a little nervous, but I feel more confident as I prepare for this cruise. I love your videos. Thanks again.
Let the people who booked your cruise it is for your birthday. NCL gives goodies in the cabin, and a cake in dining room. You can do this also for special occasion. Go to alaska between mid june, all july At least on ncl, it is a relaxing peaceful cruise.
Excellent point. My late mother was a school teacher and every Christmas, she would bring home sacks of gifts from her students (since she taught 2nd grade, the mothers provided really good gifts!). There were always some homemade treats but we were never allowed to eat anything from certain families. You can imagine why.
@ Retired teacher here as well. I learned from other teachers not to eat homemade food. When I left, bake sales were sealed food donations or purchased in bulk by the PTA.
I understand the rules on chairs, speakers, and multiple entrees. Inconsiderate folks with no manners ruin everything. Many folks these days were never taught manners.
Numerous power bars can overload the system on the ships. Rooms have a specific amount of electricity that is routed to each rooms. No drinks in a pool because they get spilled into the water. Princess still did (last year) steak and lobster one night on a cruise.
Our 2 week Princess Cruise in December had 2 formal nights but no lobster dinner. It was offered at the bottom of the dining room menus for a $39 charge.
I recently observed a couple who had a table with four chairs AND two lounge chairs right beside it. The two of them controlled SIX seats and a table all day. She sat at the table where she had a tote bag and he enjoyed one lounge chair. I saw them do this more than once. I saw the same woman leave her tote bag on a table with four chairs and then leave for more than 30 minutes. It was actually longer, but I had to leave.
My wife and I just took a Virgin Voyage and they have banned extension cords and multiplug outlets as well. Their website states that they could be allowed if cleared by the ships electrician but, staff told us that due to having one cause a small fire on one of the ships the electricians will not take the responsibility for clearing them any longer.
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Single best thing they could do to improve the cruise. Ship experiences ban black people
This past summer, I was on Explorer of the Seas and on the first day, the captain made the following announcement: "Keep in mind that the chairs around the pool are MY chairs and I say you cannot reserve them." Great captain!
@@AuntIdaBoise Unfortunately people who act in that matter do not believe rules apply to them
Man overboard lol😅
@@jamesstockton3777😂
Routers can't interfere with navigational signal, that's nonsense! The real reason is that they want to charge more Wi-Fi fees!
That's what I figured. The interference argument is like saying a cell phone will make the TV spaz out.
They are a business and the best business model is to make money
@@billybenson3834 - I don't like paying for the most basic amenity. It's like being charge extra to use the toilet, take a shower, or use the heat or A/C in my cabin. Wi-Fi should be included!
Yup. Anyone who knows anything at all about wi-fi and the spectrum bands within which it operates knows that the "navigational interference" line is pure BS (this goes for wi-fi on airlines as well). This is just another ploy to prevent guests from avoiding the cruise lines' extortionate wi-fi service charges.
Its not about navigation signals, their router may cause interference with the ship's wifi network
I completely agree with the limit on food at dinner. I watched a woman order 5 entrees and take 2 bites of each. When questioned she said, I paid for it. Ridiculous. People like her need rules because they have no morals
@@kenyabee9448 uggh ya that’s too much
Thank you! Morals and integrity are still important and always will be!!
kind of disagree. Yes they paid for it. you pay for all inclusive when on a cruise. I could understand like a clean plate rule, where you can get unlimited food as long as you are finishing most of the plate, but an outright limit means they should be charging less.
They should offer 1/2 or 1/4 entrees for this purpose
And lemme guess: she made Mama Cass Elliot look like Twiggy by comparison.
Love, love, love the chair hog monitoring! So many times we see pool lounge chairs saved and nobody using them for hours. I wish resorts would be more strict with this policy as well.
🎉🎉Happy New Year 🎉🎉
@@sherholubowich9627 happy new year!
Table hogging in the buffet area is a menace also
Can we pay for reserved chairs?
@OttawaMikes that is a fair idea
It is sad that all these bans have to be implemented because some people just do not care about their fellow human beings. Never fails that someone will do something to ruin it for the rest of us.
You expect 4,000 people to obey every rule? A cruise ship is a floating reflection of society.
@@artistjjebsenprecisely. Society needs to do better.
It isn’t just here. There are many, many tiresome rules (eg identification) brought in to try to prevent illegalities.
@@artistjjebsen A very distorted reflection. Ain't no po folks cruising.
@@kerrychabot Only the rich folk. Ain't no one from Section 8 housing going cruising.
Hope they continue to monitor chair hogs at pool. It is tough for pool deck workers tho. Saw it on Holland Amer cruise. People that had their items moved gave crew a hard time. But they had been away for more than an hour during busy, crowded time.
You’re right
... I enforce it myself... bahahaha
People go off for lunch and expect their chair to be saved. No right!
There needs to be some turn over of seating at pools but the problem stems from lack of capacity in popular areas. They want the revenue from 4000-6000 passengers but comparatively small pool areas etc….
I've heard that people will go out early in the morning and put their stuff in a bunch of chairs then go back to their rooms
The boombox ban is great as far as I’m concerned. Mainly because at night if a neighboring cabin plays their music late or all night, it is hard to sleep.
if its too loud, you're too old
@budguy21 if I can hear it three or four doors down then you're too deaf.
I thought a boombox was an obsolete (besides annoying) technology with earbuds being so good now. I don't want to hear whatever you call music (usually bass thumping interminably).
@@budguy21 I don’t think anyone is too old to enjoy music. But I don’t particularly like some music, and I will listen to most music. But if someone’s music is loud and not my favorite genre and plays all night I do become upset. The couple could have listened with head phones or earbuds if they wanted all night music. I personally turn my TV off by 10 pm so any of my neighbors are trying to sleep I don’t disturb them. I don’t complain when I’m on vacation but the next day I asked the couple to lower the volume on their radio at night. All that did was make them play it louder at night. They thought that was cute I guess. I had asked politely. So that is why I agree with the ban.
@@DonnaDavis-l1u LMAO, if I'm partying with friends in my room I'm not putting on headphones. The fact that you're going to bed at 10pm means you should find a cruise thats for senior citizens.
I took my first cruise as an adult on the Icon of the Seas in December. I purchased so many of your recommended cruise must-haves before I went. I also met so many people from around the world, but one lady I met, we were talking and I was telling her about your RUclips page and she watches you also!!! Thank you for all the good information you give about cruising.
@@cherry-cherry1412 that’s so funny! I hope you had an amazing cruise 🛳️👏
If you must pay the “gratuity” fee, it is NOT a gratuity. Gratuities are given for exceptional service only.
Absolutely. It's a service charge so just call it that.
STAY HOME
Remove the gratitudities immediately...tip direct..if warranted
@@ICONICPARISRUDE
@@Barry-k4c how are you going to tip the chef, the guy who washes the plates, the butcher, the laundry attendant, the cleaners ect, i do personally think the fares should just increase the $20 a day and not be called any charge, what they then call that wages , tips, grats internally i do not care, however it may be done the way it is for tax reasons.
Anti chair hog enforcement is a blessing!
Chair hogs …. One of my pet peeves. I was on a Carnival cruise last January. My friends and I were on an upper deck enjoying the view, sun and chatting. Chairs with items on them were unattended for nearly 2 hours. Ugh
@@Grumplyoldlady Ugghh
Sounds like time to drop those towels in the pool? Or, better, hide them underneath the chair.
Love the transparent pricing, there’s been a few occasions where I’d start to book a cruise and by the time they added all the hidden fees on I said forget it, to expensive.
I remember trying to book a flight to Hanoi and had the same experience. My mum found $50 flights to Vietnam and we both had valid passports so decided to go over a long weekend. The fees kept piling on for seat selection, taxes, luggage, and had multiple legs. By the time the ticket got to $500 each we hadn’t finished the booking process and gave up.
I can certainly understand the boombox ban. Back in the mid-90’s we were on a cruise where we could not enjoy the pool deck because of the competing boomboxes blaring music, with every box playing different music at max volume. It was absolute chaos.
@@susanwestfall2051 makes sense
We had boombox spoiling our peace from neighbouring balconies
I did a great walk here in NZ and a group of day walkers had a boombox with them at full volume. I was so angry as we were in a beautiful forest full of bird sounds and nature and then here comes that lot with their perpetual need to fill there world with noise. I prefer the peace and quiet of nature not a rap song
Hi, former Royal Caribbean employee and contractor here. answer for the power bar here: the electrical systems on their ships are ridiculously delicate. The power bars will spark a fire or short out your whole cabin upon plugging it in. I've seen it happen. Banning power bars is an electrical fire prevention rule.
I don't get the original ban on surge protected devices. Surely they are far safer than non- protected extensions?
Surge protection is designed to protect devices from over voltage, not for human safety.
@@KristenMPath thanks
So I have a question. How can someone who has to charge 2 sets of hearing aids, a phone and a scooter make it work?
@@bandit1blue01079 If you travel on Royal they will set it up for you to charge each night. The phone and hearing aides need to use either regular plug outlet on the desk or a USB port to charge. We just brought a USB adaptor with 4 usb ports on Dec cruise to charge our phones and my nebulizer and had no issues. There was a regular plug on the desk with a few outlets, one behind the bed and a USB near the phone so, it's definately doable. Also if you are renting your scooter check both companies Royal recommends Special needs at sea and scooteraround. Ive used special needs at sea a few times. They deliver and pick up and never charge extra fees. Their price even includes tax and insurance. This last cruise they were $95 cheaper than scooterarond for the same 8 day cruise.
LOVE the chair hog policy! If it works, will remain to be seen.
@@rebeccarawlings1757 👏👏
The last cruise we were on, one of the other diners ordered everything on the menu. “Because she wanted to try it all”. She took one bite of everything - it was extremely wasteful. PS - she criticized everything. Now, I want on one with 4 others, we all ordered different things and shared. That worked well.
The old addage, the small few ruin it for all
The reason for banning routers is to avoid sharing wifi and be able to connect more than one device at the time. Nothing to do with security.
I am sooooooo happy to hear this regarding chair saving! Best news!😊
My husband and I took my parents on a cruise and my dad's most memorable moment was when he got 3 lobsters at dinner!! He got one, and I asked for another for him. He was ecstatic!! I saw so happy he was that I gave him my lobster!! He was like a little kid in a candy store!
The prison food?
Can relate it took me 2 6-8 week world cruise segments to work up the courage to ask for a second lobster tail - grew up lived in a rural area and had never had one before so you get two one night thought I had done something really wicked! I didn’t leave anything on my plate so mo wastage- had friends tells me that took alcohol in water bottles and thought they were real clever so posted it and got busted
I do not like the new rule of unopened drinks for loyalty guests. I should be able to go to a bar and get a couple drinks to enjoy on my balcony later in the evening.
Hello, Ilana! Wishing you and your family a blessed 2025!
Thank you!! Happy new year to you as well 👏
Gifting homemade food to your cabin staff is just weird.
It depends on what you gift them. If it's your grandma's lime jello sauerkraut mold, then yeah, that's definitely a gift that would make the recipient think that you hate them.
Nope.
What is weird are those who look askance at that.
One thing we love about Royal Caribbean is if you get the non-alcoholic drink package only 1 person in the stateroom can order it. It isn't required of all over 21 in the stateroom. Now the alcoholic drink package must be bought by all in the stateroom which I'm not a huge fan of because one person may not drink while the other does and now they're forced to buy it or not buy it depending on how the compromise works.
Thanks for the great tips!!
"Now the alcoholic drink package must be bought by all in the stateroom which I'm not a huge fan of because one person may not drink..."
Call up the cruise line and explain your reasoning. They have granted exceptions before.
@@bugwar5545 Great to know! Thank you so much!
@@bugwar5545 If the non-drinking person is in AA they can submit a letter from their sponsor.
We never use cruise pools or hot tubs, you know people can’t drink for hours with out having g to pee. And rarely do we see people getting out. The whole thing grosses me out.
Me too. Never.
100% agreed also. I mentioned that in another channel as well. I went on a cruise and saw the same people for along time in the hot tub drink and never getting out. Nasty.
Swim up bars gross me out for that reason. 🤢
I can understand why they don’t want drinking in the pool. The drinks can easily be spilled into the pool. Yet, I was on the MSC Meraviglia this past November. I was in the first row of lounge chairs next to the pool. I was lounging while reading a book and drinking a cup of coffee. Security told me I couldn’t drink anything by the pool. So I had to step aside just a few feet over to finish my coffee. Meanwhile, the people in the lounge chairs directly behind me were eating a full breakfast with drinks and nothing was said to them. So, that made no sense.
@ how was sailing on MSC? I heard good things.
Let’s add enforcing “NO kids in the hot tubs!”
lol I’m not sure when that’s happening 😂
Everytime I say this i get slack from most parents. They love their kids in hot tubs that are ment for adults.
This has happened to me as well. The hot tubs were full of kids not behaving and we could never find a time they weren't there. It made the adult area hot tub full all the time so we just didn't get to go in a hot tub last cruise.
I totally agree with No Kids in the Hot Tubs. The last cruise I was on there were kids (aged 8-12) constantly in the hot tub and the parents didn't care. So many Adult passengers wanted to use the hot tub. I got fed up and just Got into the hot tub.....the kids did not like the Old Lady in the hot tub and so they all got out Yay!
Fully agree! Seen it too many times!
A classic hot tub issue we had.. not in the adults hot tub though… our 10 y/o son was in the main pool , that hot tub was somewhat attached to the pool.
The tub was full of drunk/drinking people, next thing I knew something went flying from the tub area into the pool.
That ‘Something’ was a beer can and it HIT my son in the head! The tub people thought it was so funny🤬
STAFF didn’t do a dang thing about it too!!
I don't really have an issue with any of these since I can understand the "why" that may have caused each change. Maybe I'm just easy-going, or I want the cruiselines to do what they need to and make sure it stays a viable affordable vacation choice!🤗
On #11, the food limit. I think it has to do with people ordering many items and then sample them and leave most as waste. Honestly you also see this with drinks where people take a sip and walk away and order something else as well. I would actually think it is better to rules that if you order more than 1 item from each part of the menu and leave it mostly untouched you will be charged a fee for wastage. Similarly in the buffet where you see people piling on food and only eat a part of it. All that waste is a cost and drives up the price for all the guests.
@@robbroere1384 that’s a good point. I’ve also seen this
Dietary reasons. I can’t eat very many carbs or sugars anymore. This eliminates most sides that come with meals. I like to order 2 entrees, like grilled chicken and a steak, And maybe two appetizers A salad and a shrimp, cocktail.
this, putting a limit on the food is just kind of scammy. You paid for it as part of the cruise. A fee like they do in some buffets for leaving behind food would be a much better solution. And for the samplers who like to use the restaurant to try new foods maybe offer a sampling platter as an option.
There are many solutions they could have tried but the limit is just them trying to cut costs without cutting your costs.
@@TimmiehereDietary reasons naturally are valid and if explained. I do not think will be an issue as you skip other parts of the offering.
This is what THEY said passenger can do. Is it wasteful, perhaps. But when you’re on vacation, one you paid for, you are in a different wasteful mindset.
13:08 on our recent cruise in Dec, somebody was trying to bring a bowl of fruit to eat inside the jacuzzi. Staff quickly told them they can’t have it. And then they complained about it after. Some ppl are just rude and think they should be allowed to do whatever they want
We don't really drink much alcohol but I do like soda and my husband doesn't. So it's a pain that we both have to buy a package. The last couple cruises we didn't even get a drink package at all. Cheaper that way.
I got talked into a drink package on my last cruise. It was the first time I ever got one - same for the friend who went with me. We both quickly realized that it would have been cheaper for us to buy our own drinks. I don't know how anyone can drink enough to justify it.
@@elisaastorino2881I have wondered how many of those people who fall off cruise ships were heavily intoxicated trying to get their money's worth from that drink package
On Princess, I was told that once your board the ship, you can go to guest services and only get one package, don’t need to buy one for each passenger. You can’t do it when booking the cruise
I just want to thank you for all of your content. After watching you and a few other channels, I have FINALLY booked my first cruise! 🎉 I will now be seriously binge watching all of your content for more tips and tricks. It’s nice to get the information from a fellow Canadian. Again, thank you!
@@karenpolansky9097 that’s awesome!! Thanks for your comments & let me know if you have questions (they often become videos) 🇨🇦🛳️🎉
Chair hogs, great news. Mostly on cruises you can’t get a chair, for hours. ❤️🇨🇦
I definitely appreciate the transparent fees
We just got back from a Southeast Asia cruise on Celebrity and their was a picture taken of a "chair hog" and posted it on the Facebook page for our trip, there was a towel draped over both chairs, a book on one and a hat on the other. Someone did report it to the steward, as it had been hours before anyone came around, the steward basically said, they can't remove any "personal" items from the chairs...other people commented and said, "they would throw the items overboard!"...lol...
I have actually used chair hog chairs. I just put their belongings under the chair. No one has ever questioned me. I am ready with a polite comeback if they do appear though
@@marydurkin6582 Just looking after your stuff?
I kind of get the "no sharing drinks" rule for things like alcohol.... But if I am getting a smoothie, and my 4 year-old wants a sip of it, i'm gonna let him have a sip of it.
I'm not gonna pay for an entire drinks package for a 4 year old who only wants a sip of my juice
That’s not a problem. Honestly I think some people probably very blatantly abuse it.
Good point!! .. It's very traditional (in all cultures) especially for MOMS, to share with little kids,
....Cruises try to make you pay for a "minors drink package" from age 3 ad up .. this should be a higher age .. like maybe 9 or 10 ...
That's not the sharing they mean. They DON'T want people ordering a drink, then coming back in 5 minutes and ordering another for their partner. That's why limits are in place too.
Part of the reason they are not allowing multi plugs is the receptacles they have in the cabins can handle so many amps , so when you add a multi plug you have a possibility of increasing the load that the cabin receptacles can handle.
Makes sense.
seems like a cheap circuit breaker could address this or am i wrong
@@gfuentes8449 If you put in a bigger breaker you have to increase the wire size that the breaker is feeding!
Any circuit that can handle a hair blower could handle about 100 cell phone chargers.
We just returned from a Caribbean cruise (Jan 2025) on Celebrity. Our non-surge power bars were confiscated, but we got them back at the end of the trip. My husband and I use C-pap machines, and on the cruise we took in September 2024, they had difficulties finding power bars for both our machines, so I bought one for the Caribbean cruise. Once again, they had problems finding enough power bars to accommodate us on the Caribbean cruise, even though I had made the request on the September and Caribbean cruise.
Carnival's price increase for water is my most hated change. Carnival said their policy of not allowing guests to bring bottles of water onboard was offset by the low pricing of water onboard, but that has changed. Carnival has massively increased the price of water bottles to an outrageous price.
I paid $48 for a case of water. 24 bottles! Outrageous!!!
That's why I now take cans of still water
I found canned water on Amazon, I hope that's allowed.
Water is available in cans now. We have no problem bringing a case of still water on board. I always bring a reusable water bottle as well
Or just drink the water from the tap. Most cruise ships have advanced water filtration systems that make the water not only safe to drink but also taste as good as if not better than most bottled (or canned) waters. I've never bought or brought water on a cruise ship.
Personal opinion. I dont waste my diamond drinks on beer. I might be a drunk but ive never wasted a coupon.
I took two cruises about ten years ago. I found my own solution for chair hogs. I just put their towels on another hogs’ chair and made myself comfortable. You shoulda seen the shocked look on their faces. Being from New York City my reaction was ‘so waddya gonna do about it?’ No problem there.
Yep. They scream, and you just look confused and answer "There wasn't anything on the chair when I sat down." 🤣
I like the pool chair police timing the chairs. Long overdue.
First thing that, came to mind, for the "open bottle", for me, was "stockpiling" in cabins.
The chair hog policy needs too be implemented on all ships especially on sea days. Going out and all of the chairs covered in towels with no one around is annoying.. Had to lay out on the most secluded out of the way area because of that.
The unopened alcohol beverages is ridiculous. Previously we have enjoyed a closed beer from our mini refrigerator in our cabin. We pay the extra money for those drinks and should be able to consume when and where we like.
I agree
This is a good point, It would be easy to implement, Diamond Level passengers could have separate drink rules .... then regular "drink package" customers, for example.
The rule is absolutely ridiculous. It has taken years for us to reach Diamond plus status and now they're acting like big brother and limiting us. If we want to spill our drink down the sink that should be our perogative. Anyway we should be able to get our drinks anytime and take them anywhere we want without being treated like a first grader
@@markberman2189Agreed!!
I would think if you paid extra for them, you would be able to take them anywhere you wanted 🤔
Chair Hogs problem "MUST" be taken seriously and resolved. On a very recent cruise my wife and I not only saw abuse of chairs hogged by items left on them, we saw far worse. We saw a group of 6 people (three couples) and they actually had 12 chairs tied up. They would move from one area of the pool deck perhaps for a little more shade to another location on the same pool deck with more sun. And they looked so smug and entitled. The Chair Hog problem ruins vacation for untold numbers of people.
The rule that impacts me the most is the one where everyone in the suite needs the drinks package. I travel with my wife and child, and I have even gone on a short trip with just my child. My wife doesn't drink. My child doesn't either, obviously. I cannot justify the cost of a package for all three of us when only one can partake/imbibe. So, for all of my cruises, I just buy drinks onboard. Best deal is the "oil can" Fosters for $10 (plus 18% mandatory gratuity for handing the can to you) for a total of $11.80. It's more than double, at 750mL, the size of a normal beer, 355mL...that's 25.2 vs 12 oz for those who don't understand metric.
I've never heard of any cruise line that requires purchasing an alcoholic drink package for guests in the cabin under 21. They may force you to purchase a soda package (since you get sodas as well with the alcoholic packages), however those are significantly less expensive.
@@jasongill6979 On Princess Cruises, one of the packages that gets sold is called "Princess Plus". That includes gratuity, drinks and wifi for $60USD per person, per day. It is a set price. If you decide to get it, *everyone in the suite* needs to get it. Everyone includes children.
@@jasongill6979If you need specifics, on Princess Cruises, there are two packages. Both include wifi, gratuities and drinks. Plus is $60 per person per day. Premier is $90 per person per day. The problem is that everyone in the same room needs to get the package. So, for my family of three, Plus is $180 per day and i am the only one who drinks. It never makes sense for my situation.
@@jasongill6979, I don’t drink alcohol & I don’t drink enough soda to justify buying a soda package. I’d rather pay twice what I should for one can/bottle a day than pay for 4 or 5 a day.
I phoned Princess for our last cruise and they told me to wait until we board and guest services will allow only one of us to buy a package. I don’t drink alcool, coffee or sodas so makes no sense for both of us to get a package
The only thing I thought was really bad with a "chair hog" policy, we had a Casita reserved for the DAY. And just during the time that we went to dinner, which of course is a couple hours, they didn't want to save it up to the sunset time. And that's a nice time to really get to see the view from up above. But I was spending those last moments of daylight just trying to round up my personal items that were grabbed up and taken to their towel area (including my own personal towel I had brought). Casitas are the areas that are over $200 to rent for the day. So I was so shocked! Not good way to handle it. Other than that, great Cruise, RC Odessey!
i have never been on a cruise. but after watching this video, i will never go. too many rules. the last thing when i am on vacation is worry about breaking rules or not. jeez.
No drinks in the pool maybe because drunk people tend to get sloppy and spill their drinks. I’m pretty sure if that happens they have to drain the pool and refill it. I’m just speculating though. 🥰
The pools are drained and refilled every day anyway. They are filled with seawater.
Especially if they think
Glass was broken
On Virgin Voyages, you can share your bar tab as much as you want. Also, no need to bring on cases of water because still and sparkling water are included and are supplied to your cabins in carafes.
That's because Virgin have a totally different way of "buying" drinks. You load your card and pay for drinks, so if you choose to buy someone a drink that's fair enough. They don't do packages.
@ They also give you free bar tab with certain promotions. We have been on 12 Virgin Voyages. On our next one, transatlantic from San Juan to Barcelona, we have $700 free Bar Tab and $700 free Loot (can be used for drinks, gift shop, excursions, tattoos, spa, whatever).
@@staciebrooks1328 Virgin Voyages is leading in many aspects. Was on Resilient Lady in May 2024 in Europe. Adults only, Gratuities included, all Restaurants included, drinks on a Tab just like on land, Water included, no photography department. Loved it, did not like the entertainment so much but rest was fun. Not many drunk people as no unlimited drink packages was great.
Let's be real the real reason they are banning cases of water is so they can charge you stupid amount for bottles on the ship.
Water is free when you turn on the tap. Why pay for a free product? Bring a jug and refill as needed.
We have taken drinks into the hot tubs. Nobody has said not to.
Chair hogs are getting our of control. On our last cruise, I watched a lady put her stuff on chairs and left. She never showed up later, and I wasn't going to wait and see how long it would be.
I had to rescue a man on a scooter when he was trying to get passed the cleaning supplies from the cabin stewards. He couldn’t get around it, so I was able to jostle the supplies to help him get down the aisle.😊
"rescue" is a bit of a stretch.An act of kindness? of course
I just take a few packaged items for dietary reasons and emergency snacks. Works great for embark and disembark days.
I have found that most evenings much of the dining menu is available on the lido buffet. One just has to walk to get it.
There's also a 4-Hour period from 2:30 a.m. until 6:30 a.m. on the Carnival cruises that you can't get anything to eat without paying to order room service
same on RC
We’ve always been able to get pizza
@ On RC, most everything is closed except for room service from about midnight until 5am when coffee cafe opens...Pizza is not available 24/7 especially on older ships without a sorrentos. You can only get up in the solarium and they have limited hours.
Have a happy new year Life Well Cruised
@@protox07 you too!
I sailed with Costa Cruises, They did monitor sun loungers around the decks, and if unoccupied for an hour all goods TOWELS/BOOKS/GLASSES/ ETC were removed and could be collected from, a central area When you returned and found your lounger occupied by A.N.OTHER :-)
The barman opening your to-go beer bottle in no way affects sharing with minors. Therefore, that excuse is BS.
Speaking from a service industry perspective ( bartender for 10+yrs) the open bottle policy is so minors aren’t given alcoholic beverages in the cabin or sharing free drinks with someone who may have been cut off by bar staff for already being over intoxicated. # 11 rule is strictly because if a beverage is spilled in the pool its contamination liability.
That’s for giving us the inside scoop
I truly believe that the bar staff gives a hoot how drunk you are unless your a sloppy type because they live off that 17% gratuity
@ and if a guest is over served and injures themselves another adult or heaven forbid a child on said cruise , that’s a severe lawsuit , and yes bar staff do “give a hoot” how drunk you are, it’s their butt if they are caught overserving
@@jamiemorrison9212the fact that drink packages include 15-17 drinks a day proves me correct as that many drinks would cause severe intoxication in most anyone
15:09 no rule #11 on Viking. Plenty of lobster on surf and turf night too.
We just sailed on NCL Escape. They did enforce the sun loungers 30 minute time limit rule and it was very helpful!!
Food limits in the MDR makes sense for many reasons. If you need more food, go up to the buffet!!
@@diannebrideson2368 interesting point
Exactly!! That is he REASON buffets were invented!! :)
sometimes you save your appetite for the escargot and don't want buffet food.
@@pariwinklz Exactly! I want to try new things on the cruise that I would not try here at home, at in the MDR is where I take the chance to do that. I want to try that weird fancy food as I payed for it and if I don't like it or the sides, ect now I only have 2 times to get it right b4 being charged more money. I dont want to eat the buffet, I can do that at home far cheaper.
They just need to get the people breaking all these riles, Im so tired of all these changes. We have not been on a cruise since 2019, and been so many changes it seems since then :(
@@BelindaSyjud this is why they should have a fee for not finishing a bunch of plates at one sitting and at the same time should have a sampler platter of the dishes on offer that night. People like to sample a variety of the dishes just to try them, so instead of limiting just make a new menu item to service those people.
The fact they went straight to a plate limit says they are trying to reduce their own costs without reducing the cruisers cost. Its scummy cooperate greed.
I think the opened alcohol thing is because they’re worried people could also be sneaking alcohol off the ship as well. Btw I love this top on you and your hair always looks great. :)
Its crazy that at the higher levels of loyalty RCCL give you 4-5 drinks a day complimentary. I wish CCL would up their perks for us higher tier cruisers. I mean like even 5 free drinks for the whole cruise for Platinum and like 1 free drink a day for Diamond.
I agree 100% re scooters. Having them line the hallways is a hazard in emergencies.
Sniffer dogs are regularly used at ports in Australia at embarkation and sometimes at disembarkation.
@@wendyfromoz4480 very interesting
@@LifeWellCruised This is one comment of you I didn't understand. Of course sniffer dogs are now more present in cruise terminals for detecting illegal substances. And marijuana is not federally approved nor in some other countries. Cruise ships pass through international water so of course they have to adhere to it.
@@Gybing i had never seen them in the terminal at embarkation - this was on my 40th cruise, so I can only share from this perspective. I never said they don’t use them or shouldn’t
For bluey fans, her mum, Chilli, works at the airport, presumably as a sniffer dog.
what is a private company going to do at disembarkation? They have no arrest powers or search powers if the trip is done can't you just tell them f off and walk away
Your videos are so helpful and informative and they keep us excited for our cruise countdown!
I was on two Carnival cruises in December and it's almost $25 for your third entree not $5
Hi Illana!
Great video ☺️👍🏽
My friend and I called RC a few months ago to ask some questions.
One was about the Drink Package: Does EVERYONE in the same Cabin/Suite HAVE TO purchase it because she doesn’t drink that much,
And the response was, NO.
So, it really doesn’t hurt to ASK 😉👍🏽
Hugs from Colorado 🏞️🌄🌌🥰🤗
I can't wait to see cruise lines enforcing the no chair hog policy. I've seen the rules, but never the enforcement.
We were in Ensenada for the last day of a Holland America cruise. We saw sniffer dogs as we reboarded the ship
I am glad they are using dogs. When sitting on my balcony, someone was smoking weed.I don't want to smell that crapp.
So you can't afford 5 min of your time so someone can get a buzz?Or possibly smoke something that allows you to sleep? Would you rather have a group of noisy drunks talking loud at 2am.Have a little toleranceThe marijuana we have today only requires a puff or two,you can handle that can't you?
I wouldn't want to smell tobacco either!
@@kathleenpullano3848 Nope, nope, NOPE!
You want to be a weed head, do it on a different planet.
The dogs are there to deter smugglers, not potsmokers.
@@ianrobertson3419Sure they are!
I brought a bunch of Advent calendars on my cruise for the crew. I had a dozen or more, handed them out to some crew, and gave the rest to my steward to place in the crew cafe. They loved it. Of course the calendars were still in the wrappers.
We just sailed with a couple who both use Cpap machines. There were no outlets near the bed. They had packed one extension cord but had to request another from the steward. I can't imagine banning extension cords for medical equipment
We recently brought extension cords without surge protectors for Oxegen machine and Cpap on Royal. They put them through testing and allowed us to bring it on board. They have to have strict rules about this for fire and safety. Going forward we will be using what the ship provides. Tavel agent also informs them we are bringing the equipment. No big deal. 🛳️ **If their cords were banned possibly they were not safe to use on the boat.
The cruise ships provide extensions if you ask.
Its because they need to be tested for safety. The other problem is so many people are bringing half their house and trying to plug it in, it overloads the electrical system on the ship
My husband and I both use CPAP machines. We were told the ship would provide an extension cord, as only one side of the bed had a plug. Imagine our surprise when the cord provided was a surge-protected extension cord!
Food restrictions - agree with.
Scooters do not belong in the hallways! My husband uses a folding power wheelchair and it is impossible to go down the hallway with scooters there. I have had to knock on doors asking them to move the scooter.
No kids in hot tubs . Cruise i was on there were children in hot tubs my family waited for hours be fore the children finish . Just gave up .
Happy new year cruisers 28 days til our first cruise ever sun princess can't wait thank you illana we have enjoyed your content since we first booked very helpful looking forward to a great 2025 and wishing same for All
Yay!! I hope you have an amazing cruise! Lots of fun during this final countdown 🎉
How much it would cost to have a birthday party on a cruise 🛳
Hope you have a great time Danka. First cruise is so memorable. You either love it or hate it. Its all a personnal thing.
As for #11, I get it. There is enough food to choose from: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and (on at least some lines) afternoon tea. So only getting two main dishes at a meal is not a big deal.
Recently returned from a Celebrity Constellation Cruise. The Casino was smoke free. Keep the smoke outside.
Amen sister!!!!!!!!!!!❤❤❤
@@nancykerstetter1952 love a smoke free casino
Keep the non smokers off ship
@ there are several places you can smoke on a ship. I personally enjoy a smoke free environment. My opinion.
@ not several. Maybe two, one on my last cruise
Your hair looks so pretty!
I can tell you the water bottle thing has a loop. If you call the cruise line, ask to bring the case of water as it's a medical reason they do allow it. I took a cruise in Nov on Royal Caribbean and had no problem bringing a case in a carry on as requested. We are doing the 22 day cruise in Sept on Carnival so I'll let you know!
It is exactly because of these loopholes that things get banned for the people who really need it.
Anyone taking bottles of water onboard used to be great until RUclips creators highlight this was a great way to get bootleg alcohol onboard so it got banned for everyone.
Hey, you can still do it if you claim it is on medical grounds... Cue widespread abuse, cue getting banned even for medical use.
People may then complain that this is dangerous as they NEED that water but the cruise line wouldn't have banned you from having water, only taking your own through. For the people who need it they would supply it (just like on a plane you cannot take your own small water bottle through security but you can get a much bigger bottle once you are through security as they are sure that actually has water in it)
Regarding opening beer to prevent minors drinking back in the cabin... Good job that it is only unopened beer they may try back there & an opened beer (or any other drink) they wouldn't touch.
I protested when bar staff opened my can at a club, because of drink spiking, either by staff or on the way back to the table.
I don’t accept opened drinks from people I don’t know.
As a certified pool operator I can tell you that pool water is not normal water. There are chemicals like chlorine that kill pathogens but there are other chemicals added so that the water feels good to your skin and is not damaging to your skin. Other chemicals are added to ensure that the water does not damage the pool or the pool equipment. So, if you or a bunch of you spill your drinks in the pool water it becomes difficult for the operator to balance the chemistry. The pool I operate has a no drinks, food or smoking around the pool. If someone throws up or defecates in our pool it will probably be closed for 3 days while we deal with the contaminates.
Cruise ships use seawater to fill the pools every morning and empty them in the middle of the night when they are not in use. They can't be using that many chemicals and dumping them into the ocean when they are done. I don't know if they circulate the water during the day to keep it cleaner, but lots of pools these days are salt water. I am pretty sure that spilling a bunch of alcohol into the pool with small children in it is not good. Also, it forces adults to not occupy the pool all day and circulate in and out of the pool.
@@RiverWoods111 considering the volume of the Pool, the spilled alcohol is irrelevant, eben if we talk about newborns (which hopefully, we are not)
@@RiverWoods111Yep! All of the ships I’ve been on close off the pool deck, dump and filter in sea water every night.
Who defecates in a pool?
Your innate
Alllllll natural
Sooooo informative. Thank you.
The smoking part I agree and it it should be having a certain area of boats that people can so it won’t blow over to other people who don’t smoke and not enjoy their time
Good point
Unfortunately, they allow smoking in the casinos onboard. I avoid onboard casinos as a result.
@@LifeWellCruised one time about a year ago, people were smoking on the balcony next to us… I reported it to the cabin steward. When he knocked on their door, the man got up, left his cig burning on the table , answered the door saying ‘oh no we aren’t smoking ‘🤯
Then the steward came back to my door I quietly walked him to our balcony door so he could smell for himself!
The steward called Security, when they showed up the fool next to us TOSSED the cig over the rail and went to answer the door!
I think there was a fine he had to pay.
@@LifeWellCruised Honestly they should ban smoking. I don't think people realize what it is like for someone with asthma to get a whiff of smoke from someone smoking. I don't care about them vaping in special areas because that doesn't cause me to have an attack. Also seems a little safer than having lit cigarettes on ships, because God knows smokers don't know how to put them out properly. They throw them lit on the ground and walk away.
I know for people with health issues, cigarette smoke is hazardous and it should be limited to certain area, but what's worse is people smoking on balconies. And when security comes, they try to eliminate the evidence by tossing over the rail? That is fire hazard! The cigarette butt can land on another balcony and start a fire! I am more concerned about that on the cruise. I'd rather have them smoke in their state room than on balcony.
That is exactly why I cruise Regent (in the past, Crystal). Less BS from the cruise line.
Australia made it a requirement many years ago that ALL 'listed shelf' prices across the country must be what the customer pays.
My first visit to the USA was a head scratcher. 🤔
@@MichaelMollard fully agree. It just feels going back in time when in the US, and most Cruiselines, in terms of “add-on” taxes and must do expected 10-20% tips on top of the advertised prices. Be transparent in pricing and give a decent salary to the staff. Then tip ONLY for exceptional service. Australia is an example that the US should follow.
Cruising has gotten so damn complicated. Why not spend 1/3 the money and spend a week in a huge suite with your own pool at a killer all -inclusive. Eat and drink what you want, when you want and watch the sunrise from your own pool. Win/win/win
I like to gamble and I was on the Carnival Liberty out of NOLA this past May and last month for 7 night cruises. One thing I noticed was there were a LOT more security guards in the casino on this past trip. One rude action some people will do is play one machine and hold the machine beside it so no one else can use it. I saw one couple get escorted out cursing because of doing this and I had another lady ready to fight over someone asking to play a machine that she was "saving". Also, had a lady arrested for being caught using counterfeit money to play. We will be cruising again in April out of Jacksonville and we will see what happens.
Carnival seems to be the main cruise line for unruly guests,Some gamblers believe that a machine is ready to give a big payout that can cause problems
Hi, Ilana!!🙋🏽♀️ I am a new subscriber. I will be going on my 1st cruise later this year, for my 60th birthday (Better late, than never)😁. I just want to thank you for all the information you share in your videos. They have been a great benefit to me. I was a little nervous, but I feel more confident as I prepare for this cruise. I love your videos. Thanks again.
Let the people who booked your cruise it is for your birthday. NCL gives goodies in the cabin, and a cake in dining room. You can do this also for special occasion. Go to alaska between mid june, all july At least on ncl, it is a relaxing peaceful cruise.
I bring water bottle and a small Britta filter pitcher.
Smart idea
I do this also 😂😂😂
Really good idea!! .. I never even thought of the Britta!
We have Life Straw bottles.
I take my grayl water filter/bottle with me.
thanks for this we are heading out on our first cruise soon great videos!
Homemade doesn’t meet any health or sanitation standard.
Excellent point. My late mother was a school teacher and every Christmas, she would bring home sacks of gifts from her students (since she taught 2nd grade, the mothers provided really good gifts!). There were always some homemade treats but we were never allowed to eat anything from certain families. You can imagine why.
@ Retired teacher here as well. I learned from other teachers not to eat homemade food. When I left, bake sales were sealed food donations or purchased in bulk by the PTA.
Regarding the "food limitations", they just need to allow to order an extra dish only if you finished the previous one.
I understand the rules on chairs, speakers, and multiple entrees. Inconsiderate folks with no manners ruin everything. Many folks these days were never taught manners.
Numerous power bars can overload the system on the ships. Rooms have a specific amount of electricity that is routed to each rooms.
No drinks in a pool because they get spilled into the water.
Princess still did (last year) steak and lobster one night on a cruise.
Our 2 week Princess Cruise in December had 2 formal nights but no lobster dinner. It was offered at the bottom of the dining room menus for a $39 charge.
I recently observed a couple who had a table with four chairs AND two lounge chairs right beside it. The two of them controlled SIX seats and a table all day. She sat at the table where she had a tote bag and he enjoyed one lounge chair. I saw them do this more than once. I saw the same woman leave her tote bag on a table with four chairs and then leave for more than 30 minutes. It was actually longer, but I had to leave.
Wow!!
SMH, that is infuriating.
My wife and I just took a Virgin Voyage and they have banned extension cords and multiplug outlets as well. Their website states that they could be allowed if cleared by the ships electrician but, staff told us that due to having one cause a small fire on one of the ships the electricians will not take the responsibility for clearing them any longer.