People Are Still Falling For These 6 CRUISE TRAPS!
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- čas přidán 1. 06. 2024
- The cruise I'm on right now has inspired me to make this video. I'm an Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas, and I've met many first time cruisers and repeat cruisers who have tripped up and fallen for 6 traps that are out there right now that cruisers are falling for that I want to make sure that you know about so you don't fall into those traps.
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00:00 Start
00:28 Empty Your Wallet
02:51 Upgrades
03:58 Fare Locked In
05:36 Missing Out
07:01The Small Print
09:43 Itinerary Changes
Seeing the footage of the busy decks of those ships just fills me with dread. Couldn't do it 😵💫
Agreed😊
He fell for the all gay cruise when they also have hetros on board!
It is in fact quite easy to escape the heaving mobs. I wouldn't dream of cruising on a ship without a prom deck, for instance - this part of the ship is always nearly deserted.
Can't agree more - it is just a posh holiday camp. Give me some deserted hill and moorland somewhere! The thought of being hemmed in with these people would be torture....
@@danquaylesitsspeltpotatoe8307what???
EVERY person who cruises should listen to this man. HE SPEAKS THE TRUTH. As a former cruise line employee, there are soooo many things about sailing that passengers assume or take for granted. This man is here to educate you in order to avoid disappointments and to straighten out your expectations.
I'm planning my first trip, I'm studying. ❤
I’ve been shopping Princess and everything is now an upgrade… 😢 So many traps and their Wi-Fi sucks.
@@user-jn1vl3eo7zsame here ! I don’t want to get duped
I buy the upgrades and packages.
@@johne6562I only. book where folks shop at high end stores
I love watching these cruise line thingies ; they remind me of why I will never get on one of these ships.
I gotta say, I've LOVED them, but now? So done now. I'd rather fly somewhere wonderful and just stay put.
Ditto.
Thanks Gary. On missed ports, some perspective on having perspective. We just got off the NCL Prima and had to miss Belfast due to wind. Many people complained. The captain met any passenger who wanted to "discuss" in the atrium and spent a couple of hours. While NCL's communication on the change leaves alot to be desired, I applaud him for "facing the mob"
BUT, because we skipped Belfast, he was able to get us into Reykjavik about 6 hours earlier which allowed us to visit the "once in a lifetime" Iceland Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon (since we had more time and it's 5 hours from port). We gladly traded Belfast for this opportunity to visit this amazing site. Cheers!
Cruise insurance cover (in the UK at least) compensates if a port is missed due to bad weather or similar. Remember to keep proof...the letter the leave in your cabin for example...and make your claim as soon as you get home.
How far in advance did they tell you the port would be canceled?
Good to hear that he was willing to engage, and as you say they do try and find often an upside like getting to a iconic or key port early to add something like you were able to do!
@@blackangelbaby We passed the turn for the port around 5am and it wasn't until about 8am that an announcement was made. That's where NCL's ability to use the app to let people know, without waking up those who didn't care, could have been a big win. But alas, the app never acknowledged the missing of the port.
We were on that trip. You just have to roll with the punches. I don't mind changes due to weather as that can't be avoided but when itineraries change prior to departure I find that more irksome
Hi Gary. I don’t cruise very often, but I find that I keep watching your videos because I just like you. I’m so happy you have had so much success doing something you genuinely enjoy.
Thanks Gary, I'm 85 and was contemplating a cruise, but all the rules and regulations and changes in the itinerary have really opened my eyes. Have been 3 Cunard trips and had excellent service, food and entertainment plus great food. Sooo sad that greed has taken over!
You're 85 you are entitled to do whatever you want
Do it. Few of these rules apply to you.
Take a cruise. Contact me if you need help. I'm a Cruise specialist. No charge.
@@newunderthesun7353are you really? What would you say is the best cruise to take? I live in the US in PA if that matters.
I agree. Under these circumstances I have no desire to cruise!
Hello, I’m 79 and I have had three wonderful river cruises one on French River one on the Danube and one on the river Rhine we travelled with Riviera travel on the longboat. There was very little entertainment but a piano playing every night just older people. The food was very good and wholesome plenty of it. All the trips were included including round the black forest and every time the boat docked every morning we were in the midst of another small town we could walk straight into and explore without having to go past the security guards with the machine guns and the x-rays. they. they are perfect for older people as now I would find the walking from the ship to get to the actual town far too much for my feet, it’s lovely not to have screaming children’s or loudest people as they tend not to be attracted to this type of holiday I cannot recommend them highly enough. I’m 79 and I would go again except my feet is so bad now I couldn’t face going through the airport at Manchester to get to the ship.
It amazed me on my last transatlantic cruise, how many people were upset because our stops changed. It was for a really good reason. There were two hurricanes in the Atlantic and for the ship to cross on time, we would have to go much further south to bypass them, which meant more time at sea versus stops. It was clearly marked when you checked in that the itenirary may change. But people acted like the cruise line did it on purpose.
I’m on the couch watching now. Well, off to my nap. 💤 I’ll be cruisin’
Changing the itinerary: happened to me just once on a Caribbean cruise. On our second day, during a day at sea, a passenger had a medical emergency. The ship had to divert north to meet a USCG helicopter that was dispatched from (I think...) Louisiana. The helicopter picked up the passenger (and everyone was on the upper deck at the same time to watch the operation...) and all was well.
But the delay was several hours, long enough that the schedule had to be shuffled. We still made it to our scheduled ports, but in a different order than the original itinerary. I had booked a few independent excursions at the ports, so I had to scramble to reschedule with those operators. It all worked out just fine, but it was an interesting lesson in how quickly an itinerary can get disrupted.
Haha. I am the cruise lines worst nightmare. I spend almost nothing once on board. 8 cruises this year and under $100 total I spent once on board.
I disagree on the upgrade process. Of those 8 cruises I always booked an inside cabin. 4 of those cruises I got upgraded. I sail Nov 7th and I am upgraded to a balcony suite on a 13 day cruise. Life is good!
Advice please! I want to do this too (spend nothing on the ship)
I’m assuming you prepay gratuities? We just had a week on carnival and spent less than $50 (not counting the tips). That was a few extra tips we gave plus some candy for the kids and multiple roller coaster rides). But we don’t drink much, eat at main dining or buffet alternative, no internet, and just go to a nearby pool or beach at port (if we even get off the boat). When we get off the boat we eat before we get off and eat as soon as we get back. When we see freebies like a free specialty dining or free drink we jump on it. We also maneuver around new rules like 2 entrees. My wife loves lobster so me and kids will eat early at buffet then go to main dining and order the extra lobsters for my wife. By spending less on board affords us to go on multiple cruises each year. Just got off one and next is is February.
@@lyndy2026 Very easy, just don't. Myself I don't see the appeal, but not a shopper or drinker.
Remember, cruise lines are a business and exist to make money.
My wife and I, when we book, spend very little beyond what we pay to book. We don't do specialty dining, no spa time, and I usually just buy the drink of the day because we don't drink beyond maybe one a day.
Shore excursions through the ship are minimal, we usually just go into the port town on foot or taxi. Usually I can find a better priced tour through Project Expedition or Viator but one really needs to do their port investigation long before they plan anything.
Itineraries are fluid and people need to remember that. Weather and safe docking are important, cruise lines don't make money by skipping ports but safety is important. Relax and go with the flow.
Being our first cruise, we have gone "overboard" pardon the pun on drinks and dining and the room. We would rather have the expense upfront and just accept that's what it's gonna cost instead of being onboard and wishing we had added on and now have "extra" charges. Now, we may realize we dont need / want the special dining stuff. We may be better off just buying drinks. We'll evaluate after this cruise and if we like it, can adjust on future cruises.
Gary confirms my biases. Its very helpful knowing the traps and managing expectations. Once you know what you need it sorts out things that are unnecessary for me to enjoy my cruise.
Excellent advice. We gave up on ocean cruises because they are overcrowded, too stressful, too much manhandling, getting on and off the ship is a major operation, its just not a holiday, and the ships which are really just floating tower blocks are too big to dock in or near city centres, usually 1 to 2 hrs away by bus or train. We switched to River cruises on small boats max 150 passengers, small boats dock in the very centre of towns and cities, for an easy casual walk on walk off experience. Scenery passing by all the time, instead of blank boring horizon, and no crowds, miles of walking around big ships not necessary. Just so much more relaxing, less people, less stress, less hassle, walk off when you feel like it, no queues, no noise, awesome scenery, complementary bikes for cycling around towns and cities. No casinos, no drinking culture. A proper relaxing holiday.
The point about the fine print is extremely relevant given the fact that, onboard the ship, the Captain is Master under God. So there are going to be a lot of examples of that saying, "worse things happen at sea". If you're going to spend an extended time under a captain, know the rules (especially the fine print) and keep your head down. It also pays to know your captain. If a captain doesn't have the moxie to stand up to the cruise line when they try to tell him how to do his job, that person is not competent to command a ship and is a danger to you, the other passengers and the crew. Never set foot on a ship where the captain is known for doing risky manoeuvres at the request of the cruise line. A good captain keeps his or her own counsel when it comes to ship safety.
If anyone remembers "Captain Coward", you know exactly which example I have in mind.
Conversely, if you ARE planning on adding in drinks, WiFi and specialty dining, it may be cheaper to go with a line like Celebrity or Princess and add on their “all-inclusive” package than to book with Royal Caribbean and add everything on individually. Always make the comparison!
RCI has me so confused on what stuff costs without actually putting down a deposit lol.
celebraty less inclusive
My advice is to stay away from the jewelry stores that sell high end products. In my experience they are incredibly over prices and the sales people are really skilled in getting you to buy anything.
Just booked a crossing with Cunard. Have done this many times, but not since 2017. I was surprised to get the bidding up email. As a solo, I realized quickly it was double. Also the upgrade would be to Princess Grill and on QM2, the best dining room for the crossing experience is Britannia. They never used to offer a drinks package, but when I looked at it I realized I could never consume that much alcohol in a single day to make it worthwhile. I prefer the all inclusiveness of Crystal where you don’t have to think about any of this stuff, but the QM2…..well…there is nothing like her. Can’t wait to sail on her again!
I have the same issue with drinks packages. I just can't drink enough to make it worthwhile for me
I have sailed on the Symphony of the Seas. Lovely floating hotel...but, not my cup of tea. I like smaller ships where I can sit on the deck and watch the ocean go by.
When we went on that particular cruise, our itenerary changed almost completely because the President of Haiti was assassinated and there was a lot of unrest in the country, so we ended up not going to San Juan (We were really looking forward to our excursion there - working at a food bank and then having dinner with a local family) and not going to Labadee, Haiti. Instead we ended up in Sint Maartin and in St. Thomas and CocoCay. Not what we planned...but, that's what happened...and you just have to roll with it.
Love your Vids, Gary!
I have zero desire to cruise, but for some reason enjoy these videos. My parents LOVE cruises and I always share his videos
Same
Me either. Not interested in Vegas either. Others think I am strange.
@@tm13tube not at all... I'm the same, no the cruising, and absolutely no interest in vegas... I'd like to see vegas in full swing, and have a walk around a cruise ship, but thats it... I do enjoy the videos though
My mom wants to do cruises but all I can think is "floating petri dish."
@@pshaw8406 😂
Hey Gary, once again another great video! I am a platinum medallion member with Princess, and let me offer an example for anyone who reads this. July 12, I’m headed on a 16 night cruise aboard Caribbean princess. As a platinum member, I get half off Wi-Fi. With a four devices plan, the total is $360 split between myself and my roommate at $180 apiece. we booked a suite, daily gratuities amount to $17 per day x 16= $272. Both of us like to drink in moderation, and I do like my large cappuccino every day.
I think the part that some people are forgetting is your onboard credit. In this case, I will get a total of $470 (including military $250) OBC.
After paying my half of the Wi-Fi, and my gratuities, that leaves me with $18 credit. So, that means that sure I’m going to have a bill with some cappuccinos and a few drinks daily, however, it cannot equal the $60 a day I’d spend if I bought the “plus” package which equals an additional $960 per person!!! Sure this means that I pay to get into a couple of additional restaurants like Alfredo’s (which is everyone knows used to be free) or I could get room service (which again, used to be free) and the new seafood restaurant & bbq restaurant, but I don’t care, not worth it! A fool, and his money soon part ways. The meals in the main dining room, and the free food areas
Are delicious.
Using my example, would you be willing to spend $60 a day just to get free drinks and get into a couple of restaurants?? I don’t think so……. My onboard credits already paid for my Wi-Fi and gratuities with a little extra.
We have been frequent cruisers for 20+ years. Didn't even book ONE this year. Price gouging everywhere. Plus the service, quality of entertainment, and quality of food (especially in the dining room) are down. Also, the new, huge, crowded ships are a big turnoff for us. We are looking elsewhere for vacations (e.g. All inclusive resorts) until they change. One other thing, they are looking hard for NEW cruisers and cutting down on benefits for their previous, LOYAL CUSTOMERS.
Exactly. We just got off NCL Joy and the food in the dining rooms was terrible. The only way we got decent quality food was in specialty dining. Never again. I've been cruising since I was little girl. Going to take a break from cruising.
People take it personal. The truth is that the pandemic irrevocably affected cruise lines. They still had to wear the cost of administration & maintenance. Many normal land based businesses , and products,have either closed or suffered huge increases in supply costs. I STILL can't get my preferred cold and flu tablets and Pfizer made record profits. If we don't support cruise lines now - there'll be no affordable cruising - within a few short years. I've become aware that there's anything from at least 12-20% increase in my solo fare - IF I can even secure a sale fare
@@ColetteNicoll Sorry, too late, it basically has become unaffordable with all the price gouging. Better ways to spend our vacation $$$ and get more value. Let them go broke with all of their greed. Especially Carnival, who has shown they don't care about their LOYAL customers of many years. Their "new" customers are pushy and rude anyway, along with the huge ships being TOO crowded to be enjoyable.
I'm confused why you are listening to a guy about cruises when you are not going on any cruises. Must be his accent.
@@cmorris9494LOL I have the right to listen to what I want to and as a frequent cruiser, certainly have spent enough money to stay up to date. All of the defenders of these changes must either be investors or part of management teams.
Luv, luv ocean cruises! Great tips, don't want extra $$$ keep your sailing card in your pocket!! 🎉❤😊 Can't wait 4 my next one😅. Or: try Alaska cruise, u get calm crowd
Yeah we wanted to visit relatives in Israel on our upcoming cruise and now, obviously, they changed our itinerary and we are going to turkey instead.
I just got off a 9 night cruise and the internet was fantastic. It was an older ship (Liberty of the Seas). I was impressed. One cruise I could barely get the internet to work.
This stuff reminds me of our local casinos, where we have 'Resort Fees' that do just about the same thing. A room that costs $20 a day ends up costing the patron $75 after all the fees and taxes are added. And here you don't get the option to refuse to pay the fees; they are mandatory! I really enjoy watching all your videos about cruising too.
Another of your very helpful videos. I’ve been on 3 ocean cruises but never again. Seeing all those people on those big ships just makes my skin crawl. On our first cruise we did have a cabin under a club but complained and got a better room. I do like river cruises.
There are other options.....
My grandfather traveled on the Mariposa from Sydney to CA three times and was nuts about it.
I am sailing on @Oceaniacruises on Nov 1 for what was supposed to be a Holy Land itinerary with stops in Jerusalem, Cairo, Alexandria and Cypress. This was a once in a lifetime cruise. I completely understand why we aren’t going there but the ports are being replaced with a Greek Isle cruise. I could have booked that if that was what I wanted. No offer to cancel, no offer to cancel with FCC - nothing. We have insurance but it won’t pay out for this. I am stuck taking a cruise I don’t want with no recourse. Sometimes it just sucks how the cruise lines can treat you. I will NEVER sail on Oceania again and caution others not to as well. They do not care about their passengers.
Other lines did the same thing. You HAVE to read your cruise contract-they have the right to change the itinerary as they see fit! It can be due to wind, high seas, predicted storms, political unrest, acts of war, or natural disasters.
Great tips. Thank you for the video.
I will never take a cruise, but your videos are so informative 🙂
Your videos are great & very informative… thank you.
I almost never spend money onboard. I like doing my homework about the ports months in advance, and -- unless there's a very good reason to book through the ship -- I always book my excursions independently. This is especially true of locations with good public transportation: I plan what I want to see and how I'm going to get there... SO much better than being stuck with a tourist group.
I don't drink soda/soft drinks -- I'm fine with just water/tea/coffee on board -- and I don't drink alcohol on board. I'll have a beer or two when I'm off the ship, in port. No casino, no "specialty restaurant" (I can do that at home when I want to), and I don't need spa treatments or to do any shopping on board (I can shop for anything I need at home.)
WiFi? I love being able to tell coworkers that I'll be completely out of contact, in the middle of the ocean. I'll use free wifi in the ports to check email, but I've never found a good reason to use wifi on the ship.
Thank u, agree 🎉❤ !!
After my mum died and I couldn't get in contact with my brother as he was on a cruise with no wifi, he has always opted for it on new cruises just in case.
Great Video!!! wonderful information.
Lots of great tips! Mind blowing how much they make from onboard purchase too. Agree so important to read the small print!
It is! And all lines talking in Wall Street updates how they pushing this more and more.....
As always, great information and wonderfully presented!
Thank you, Gary. I’ve never known you to be wrong. VERY HELPFUL
This is great information thank you for making this video and it is such a high quality video. I appreciate your approach to a straight to the point and pleasant conversation. Cheers!
always very helpful even if you are aware it always helps to be reminded and very worthwhile watching again
As a frequent traveler, I research our trips well in advance. If we’re looking at an Airbnb in one of the places we plan to visit, I will search google street view and google earth to see what the area is like and if there are any businesses nearby that might pose a problem (learned that one the hard way many years ago when we were in Tennessee and the following morning at 6am we were awakened to bright lights and loud machines - the “quaint cottage” was next to a machine shop). As for cruising, if we can’t get a balcony cabin that is surrounded by other cabins (above, below, across, and on both sides) then we won’t book it. Another trap that I noticed while planning our upcoming trip for my oldest son and myself was that NCL really pushes their so called “free at sea” by clearly stating “only 1 day left to book”. Classic trap. We didn’t fall for it, but we did end up booking with NCL because of the dates and the itinerary. We are well aware that itineraries change, but we’re chill and we’ll go with the flow - no pun intended, or maybe it was 😏. Now NCL has really been pushing us with emails to upgrade our drinks, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, cabin, etc. No thanks!
Why will you only book a balcony cabin surrounded by other cabins. You were very specific about the up and down left and right. Lol
I’m curious bc I’ve never been on a cruise. I don’t have my heart set on it either but I have been contemplating it.
@@Billmull8622 We prefer having a balcony room for a variety of reasons. I’m a bit claustrophobic and the extra balcony space allows us breathing space. We love joining in all the fun and meeting new people, but having a nice, private open space is wonderful. We also prefer passenger cabins surrounding us because they are less loud. Being near a club, venue, casino, etc… may be disruptive.
Where would you like to visit if you do take a cruise?
@@OkieTLB honestly I don’t know, somewhere warm tho. Lol
That makes sense! I’d want the balcony for the same reasons, honestly. That part I figured. I wouldn’t have thought about the noise from clubs or any of that tho!
I don’t really know the first thing about going on a cruise. I have an uncle that used to go on them. The last one I’m aware, it was an Alaskan tour so not warm! Idk why people would want to do that. Lol
A few years ago was the first time I started looking into them, and what I learned is, they aren’t all inclusive like they make it seem. After watching a lot of these videos, it seems you really have to do your homework so you don’t get screwed.
@@OkieTLB thank you for that speedy reply btw!
@@Billmull8622 you’re very wise to do your homework. Nowadays, one really does have to do their research before traveling anywhere. The two pros about cruising for us is that you can visit many new places and your “hotel” moves with you. Also, you’ll never find yourself struggling to find a place to eat. Remember too that traveling during less peak times is much more affordable. However you decide to vacation, I hope you have the time of your life!
Your tips are great for wannabe cruisers as well as experienced ❤❤
Gary, I really like your videos and hope to experience a river cruise in March 2024. Thanks for all your advice.
Another great video & great tips! As a frequent cruiser, I totally agree with what you’ve said! Looking forward to your next video 😊👍
I enjoy these videos very much. The best thing is that they have convinced me that I can imagine no worse experience than a cruise. For that I am eternally grateful. I’ll still watch Gary telling it like it is though. Respect.
Same here.
I've watched a few videos to help persuade me that I need a cruise.
I see those crowds and queues and open ended T&Cs and I say No Thanks!
Unfortunately many videos like this can put you off if you haven't experienced cruises before. We have had about 20 cruises in the last 30 years and rarely had issues. I think perhaps the more you pay, the bigger the problem can be in terms of disappointment. We always go for the cheapest cabin with a window and watch out for worthwhile prices, never paying more than about £900 each at most from the UK. We don't drink much nor bother with any of the extras that can run up the bills. In Europe, there is almost no need to pay for shore excursions for eg. These have been some of our best holidays ever. Most of our friends who are in fact in their 50s and 69s won't go on cruises and for reasons they absolutely know they will hate, eg "only really old people go on cruises" or "I don't want to be forced into playing bingo every day" and " I'm not wearing an dinner suit evey night" and so on, ie belief is overriding reality.
You miss so much if you do not travel further than you can walk from the port. For 90% of the time we take shore excursions and have seen some lovely places and experiences, memories to last a lifetime.
Actually most Mediterannean ports are a long way from what there is to see.
@@chriswilliams6568 Weve mostly done Spain and the Canary islands. The cities are very walkable but sometimes need a bus from the ship to the edge of town. Lisbon in Portugal is particularly good as the ship is right on the edge of the city, as is Cadiz and Malaga and Funchal in Madera. Italy and Croatia usually requires a bus ride from the Ship.
My mother and I went on a cruise in '67 from New York to the Bahamas. There were no casinos, no flow riders, no skating rinks, no food courts or malls, no crime, no danger from crew members and yet we always had something to do. Dinners were a dress up occasion, everybody got along. Every passenger got a bottle of Champagne and the only out of pocket cost were for alcoholic drinks or shopping in the gift store, and any shopping we did in the port. Things were so much simpler then and it's a shame we lost that. I would never go on a cruise today on those top heavy ships where a couple rogue waves are just waiting to knock a ship down to the bottom. To everyone that would I wish a Bon Voyage! 👋🚢🌊
great channel, especially for solo travelers.
I really appreciate the content you’re putting out! I went on one cruise and had a great time, but the only part of the ship I saw was the bar. 😂
I want to cruise again but I want to do it with the wisdom I should have at my age. 😂. Your videos are helping me prepare to do that. Thanks
A lot of great info there.
Hi Gary, thanks for the great video. Very true about reading the cruise contract. In 2006, I was on the QM2 and the last stop on the itinerary was Costa Rica, a tender port, that was scrapped because of rough seas. We never received any type of refund. In July I was on the QM2 and the last stop on the itinerary was Newport RI, a tender port, that was scrapped because of fog. However, I did receive a check from Cunard but only for about $10. That confused me.
I wonder if it was because there were several issues on that cruise and many people were in the Purser's office wanting to be reimbursed for the missed port. But you are correct, people need to read the cruise contract.
I've been on 6 cruises on the biggest ships in the world. Yes, the man is correct. Do your research on the drink packages, different dinner upgrades , the daily tips for maid service and the shore excursions. I smuggled my own alcohol on board, lol , and made us mixed drinks just buying a soda package . RC would allow each passenger to carry on a bottle of wine each. I simply bought the cheapest wine available, poured the wine out and refilled it with my favorite rum or whiskey. Resealed the caps and wa la.
Just a little trick you learn after doing this many times Saved a ton of money on mixed drinks
A lot of the cruises won't give you that bottle of wine until the last day of the cruise, and sometimes there's a "corkage fee", mandatory, that is $20+. Just look it up for your cruise. Otherwise, after spending all sorts of $ for drinks (keep in mind that uou have to drink 6 to 8 drinks per night for an alcohol drink package to pay for itself...so we never do those)...we were persuaded to see if we could smuggle some alcohol in...we were surprised how easy it was too! I d-o think that you should buy at least one drink at some bar venue that you are enjoying the entertainment anyway. And there are 1/2 priced specials at certain times at certain bars (happy hours)..and I've made many friends that way actually. You can also buy the 2 for 1's at one bar and carry them to the one you really want to be at...you are free to walk around the ship with a drink or 2. But we would have done things differently if we had known all those years. LOL.
Just drink water and soda, problem solved. I'll never understand why some people think drinking alcohol is so important.
Yes they make bank off of booze they arent getting any money from me. Not gambling either.
I would just drink that wine 😅
This is supposed to be a holiday. If you have to be a detective before you go it leaves a bad taste in the mouth like going on holiday with a crook. I’ve been on three and really enjoyed them. I’d like to go again but not at this cost. Can’t trust anybody anymore.
Gary - Your videos are excellent!
Glad you like them! Thanks for watching
Well, after watching this video, seeing the cramped space filled to overflowing, there’s no way I’d book a cruise.
Looking forward to meeting you on Paul and Carole’s group cruise!
I have challenged itinerary changes under UK package travel and consumer contract regulations and won but it's not an easy thing. In the last case it was a chargeback with Royal Caribbean who changed the trip to four tenders from one and cancelled a port. I'm not usually that fussed about tenders but it was taking two hours to get on and off the ship which I also highlighted was not performing the service in a reasonable time. You do however have to be prepared to fight, even my card company didn't want to file the chargeback and I had to press for it. On another trip I paid for a drinks package but NCL failed to obtain licensing in the UK (for an British Isles/ROI cruise) which meant they couldn't serve alcohol for half the trip. They eventually paid out £100 after a complaint and threat of a chargeback as well.
Ive been watching your videos for years. I hope in the next few years to go on a cruise. Thank you for all your hard work on these videos and information! :)
Bet you will be in a position to do so, sooner than you think. Being informed FIRST is so much better.
I’ll tell some very interesting events yhat happened on cruises . I’ve gone on many . The shortest was a 3 night and the longest was 11 night !
I’ll start by saying , you can have a wonderful time on a cruise and I’ve found them to be the most economical way to have a holiday vacation
Thank you, Gary. Most helpful. (By the way, nice putting stroke!)
Thanks for watching. Good to hear feedback on the putting!!
Thanks for doing your homework, Gary, to save us all the headaches.
Great video. Trap # 1 was the big shocker. Buying a conventional holiday package, I wouldn't expect the add-ons (excursions, mainly) to total more than about a third of the headline price. WiFi? Access to email, a bit of social media, and some browsing meets my needs.
To clarify on the packages, it’s usually much cheaper than individually buying _everything_ that’s included in the package. Question is, will you use all or even most of it?
For example, Princess Plus is US$60/day and that includes the per-diem staff gratuity, which by default is $16-18/day. So really it’s an extra $44/day. That could be worth it if your typical day includes:
- WiFi ($15/day)
- a mixed drink during the day and wine at dinner ($20-25), and
- Dessert ($12)
Some people will drink a lot more than that (don’t forget coffee), and you get other conveniences like room service and yoga classes, but it’s not a terribly high bar. Still, if you’re fine with the basic dining hall, drinking minimally, and checking email when you’re ashore, it’s probably not worth it.
Another smaller consideration is that the flat pricing helps some people unplug. If I pay the $60-80 a day, that’s one less thing to think about onboard. I’ve already paid for drinks, why not have another? I’ve already unlocked the nicer restaurants, why not go?
As for the excursions, yeah, that’s one of the big differentiators between cruise lines. Companies with higher upfront fares tend to include more stuff in that base fare. Viking, for example, promise at least one excursion option at each port that _doesn’t_ cost extra.
(There are usually other things too like pricier lines use smaller ships and have nicer furnishings, but all-inclusiveness is a big one.)
Just following on from the whole bidding for an upgrade,I've found on Cunard that it's best NOT to tick the box for a free upgrade when booking as what they do is,say you have a nice balcony booked but then they've given you an upgrade to a suite but it's a suite they can't get rid of,under the lido deck for example (noisy from 5.30am) but they know they'll be able to sell your decent balcony cabin so it's a win win for Cunard,so do be careful when ticking that "free upgrade" box
This is a regular advise I tend to follow. I just tried a new cruise line and booked an inside. So I let's try that "ok for upgrade" for once, but we ended up at the very front of the ship. Of course every morning we were the first to be brutally aware about the port arrival...
Aww that's a shame,we learned the same way,we booked a suite at the back of the ship(our favourite spot) but had ticked the free upgrade,we were told by Cunard......we are delighted to tell you,you have been upgraded to a penthouse,woohoo we thought but no,was exactly the same size cabin but at the side of the ship with a tiny balcony and noise from above,so never again x
@@Smellynelly67 I've been stung, too, so never again!
What annoys me is,they KNOW it's a con 🤬
Great video! I think some, especially new cruisers, may feel compelled to buy additional items or experiences once it's in their face. They're on vacation and may be more compelled to buy. Definitely good to have awareness ahead of time to plan, especially if you don't really want to spend more onboard.
Thanks! Yes I agree,!
Food looks lovely,I just wish there was smelly vision 😂 . Thanks for sharing and safe cruising
Thank you so much for the fantastic tips Gary. They are invaluable.
Thanks foe watching!!! Great to hear
You are very smart or savvy Gary. You have all the bases covered.
Thanks very much for this information Gary. I have always wondered what one gets in these add-on packages with internet, etc., because I like to watch Netflix on the cruise which usually requires the most expensive internet packages. Many years ago I got one of these cabin upgrade emails and paid the extra dollars but it turned out to be no upgrade at all, winding up with a cabin that looked out at the lifeboats below. And on another cruise a storm came up so instead of going to Panama and Belize, we wound up going to Grand Turk and Falmouth, Jamaica. I complained in writing to the cruise company that these were inferior ports and sought some sort of cruise rebate. Like you say, they referred me to the cruise contract and basically told me to get lost. Nowadays, I read the cruise contract before and after booking the cruise to see what the cruise line is on the hook for and what they can avoid.
On the "changed itinerary" point, I have insurance which will compensate me to some extent, but only if the change occurs after the cruise begins. For short cruises (14 nights or fewer) I never really bothered about it, but my next one is for 53 nights, so the chances of changed itinerary are much higher. (PS As always, a really helpful video, Gary.)
Wow 53 days!
Wow.. that's amazing but I want to ask you a question..is it funner booking directly in the places your excited about and flying there enjoy multiple days/weeks' or do you enjoy the'living on the ship aspect..both could be interesting but I was wondering your thoughts..and thank you
I love your videos!!!!!!!
THANKS MATE!
I have never taken a cruise. Looking at the crowds on these ships and no way am I going to.
Really great tips. Thank goodness I added excursion insurance...
There is another trap: I have witnessed it in Mexico, especially places like Mahahual: the moment the ship docks, all prices double or triple. Menus disappear, and offers are taken down in restaurants, bars, and even shops. And much more expensive signs are going up. Like, water bottles would suddenly cost 4 dollars for 500ml instead of 40 pesos. And bathing suits that were 100 pesos on sale on a table suddenly had a sign of 25US$, the ice cream usually is around 50 pesos per scoop, suddenly was 5 US$, etc. And that was outside the cruise terminal I dread to think what prices are in the shops inside the cruise terminal.
Once the ship left, all prices went back to "normal".
Funny thing with Itinerary changes, sometimes it can actually work out better! My partner and I are doing South Pacific with Carnival over New Years, originally we were scheduled to visit Noumea at the start and end, with Mare in between. Mare has decided they aren't allowing ANY cruise ships this season, so the new itinerary (which of course can still change) is Port Vila, Lifou, Noumea. So while we are still getting 3 stops, we're getting an extra port. This does mean we start with 3 full sea days, however they are 30th Dec, 31st Dec and 1st Jan, so I imagine first 2 will go quick, and the 3rd most of the ship will be sleeping in if our last NYE cruise is anything to go by :P
Very good points. Like you have said, you need to check, and check again if you want to be sure you got a good price. It's no longer a quick book and forget. The drink package can be hit or miss depending on your habits so apply your habits. As a foot note, if you have a lot of stops, you could pass on the package since you are probably better off getting a drink off the ship (especially if you're in the Caribbean) and only have a couple at night on the ship. The reverse also applies if you have a bunch of sea days. Upgrades are interesting. You're bidding on the leftovers of a higher cabin level. If you have a location you want, I think you may want to keep it. I almost fell into this one. I didn't get it but someone mentioned the location thing. If you don't care, go for it at the right price for you.
At one time celebrity had a guaranteed accessible cabin. That was pretty predictable on where the cabin would be. Now, I can’t bid not that I would as my new wheelchair will not go through most regular cabin door!
Right now I’d add that there is a paragraph in travel insurance that it doesn’t include acts of war.
The Holland America package usually costs us about $15 - $25 per day for 2, after subtracting tips, internet, excursions, OBC, and speciality dining (I value at 50%). $12.50 per person, per day, is well worth the drink package, even if we only have 2 drinks a day + a coffee.
As Jean-Paul Sarte said, "Hell is other people". For me and my wife, spending one or two weeks in a closed environment with thousands of other people, and no way to escape except jumping overboard, is giving a good idea of Dante Alighieri's inferno!
I feel the same - as far as I'm concerned it's just a floating shopping mall or airport lounge. It makes 'The Walking Dead' look like a documentary.
“Boring damned people. All over the earth. Propagating more boring damned people. What a horror show. The earth swarmed with them.” - Bukowski.
Thanks. I never wanted to go because of the infamous "PPDO" scam. So it's not for single people.
And I suspected it's a horror show of crowds, sort of like being at McDonalds on the wrong side of the tracks during a free Big Mac with every drink purchase on Saturday morning. Your pictures and video reinforced that belief.
When sailing Transatlantic the 18/21 rule can change because you are sailing out of USA/Europe, when sailing about the Caribbean the age can go up and down depending whether you are visiting a US or UK island which was a colony years ago.
Checking young children into and out of children's clubs as a nominated by parents authorised person (typically a much older sibling) can vary on 18/21 rule depending on cruise line and sailing.
Yes, I've learnt that if there is a place I really, really want to visit, then not to do it as part of a cruise! I'm British and on our round Britain cruise last year, our Edinburgh stop was cancelled because of the Queen's death and her lying in state in Edinburgh, plus we then had to miss out on Bruges because something something to do with water levels, we had to be in Amsterdam the day before we were due to arrive. These didn't bother me too much since I can easily go back up to Scotland (I'd wanted to visit the Kelpies and the Falkirk wheel) if I want, and easily get over onto the continent. But I did feel sorry for those who had travelled from afar and for whom this might have been a trip of a lifetime. We've been with NCL three times now, but won't go again (probably) - they include that 'all at sea' package within the price, but I don't drink much alcohol so that's a waste. If only they'd include orange juice or decent coffee. The dining packages - yeah, great. But my daughter still has to pay for hers, and other than the Brazilian place, we don't think it's good value for her. Oh, and wifi. Stingy or what. Still had to upgrade and pay loads more to get usable wifi. I'd rather this wasn't bundled into the price so that I can choose whether to buy it or (most likely) not.
Thank you so much for the good info in this video. I personally have zero interest in going on a cruise however because my wife feels the opposite way and has asked if we could do this I want to plan one that will be the most enjoyable that we can possibly arrange, thanks for giving me the heads up of what to watch out for
@Bob_just_Bob Do yourself a favor, and just send your wife with a girlfriend.
Itinerary changes - I just got off a cruise (I'm Australian) that was meant to go to Vanuatu. I travelled from my home in Cairns to Brisbane where the ship was departing. As we lined up to embark we were advised that due to a cyclone we were diverting to.........Yep Cairns🤣 We have never in our life expected a Cyclone in October. We did however receive $200 OBC and had a great time anyway.
Hats off to you. Itinerary switched happen so should be expected. Go with the flow and ENJOY!
People who are fans of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise can easily remember the last tip. When Jack asked by his crew didn't "stick to the code," they replied "We thought those were more like, um, guidelines." That part of the movie script immediately came to mind when Gary pointed out that a ship itinerary cannot be ironclad. Weather, late passengers, mechanical issues, etc. can all affect the itinerary. The itinerary is not THE code, it is more like a set of guidelines.
Our last cruise was with Viking Dec 2019 in the West Indies.
We had a small change of itinerary because there was some political unrest in Dominica on our port day. We made a return stop at one of the other ports.
I normally don't bid to upgrade. On our next cruise (Nov 20 NCL Prima) we bid for a spa balcony and got it. The location is a bit better than what we had. But it did save us about $200 because we were going to buy the thermal Spa package already.
When bidding on upgrades, don't think just about price. Also consider the fact that you cannot pick the cabin. For example, you may end up in a cabin that echoes with noise from the deck above or below. The people who booked the class you are upgrading to most likely have picked the best cabins so the ones the cruise line puts you are not the most desirable,
I never let the cruise line pick my cabin!
And for Royal you won't get the extra points for a suite on an upgrade either
@@helghallen exactly what I was coming to say!
We always let them choose the cabin in the grade we have booked for and tick the no upgrade option if there is one. We always choose the cheapest sea view cabin and are never disappointed as they are nearly always at the bottom of the ship where its always quiet and we get an amazing view of the sea no matter what the weather. We had an upgrade years ago and it was a nightmare, and we were moved to the noisiest part of the ship.
I have no idea why anyone wants to go on a cruise, herded aroundlike sheep on a crowded floating hotel you cannot leave but strangely I find these videos interesting
I want to thank you for your trips.
I have told several people such as current and former friends who plannibg thier first or second cruises toI check on your CZcams videos for great information about things to do and what not yo do!!! I have been helpful to my friend from the airline side of things because I am a former Purser Flight Attendant so, I don't mind sharing from my former career of travel. But I continue to admire your great information of cruising on the many ships that you have!!
Nice presentation for people that arent aware. Hubby and I are Celebrity fans. have tried others but we really like Celebrity the best. We like the Always included and i upgrade to the premium package because I like the better wines and the 10 & 20 year Port after dinner. The OBC we use sometimes for excursions and have used that in the Casino. no out of pocket and actually brought home close to $100 additional dollars. We are Elite with Captains club and have taken advantage of the free 1 bag of laundry service. Great for our 10 or more day cruises. We bring less clothes that way. I had booked a cruise for the 2 of us but also included 2 cabins for family couples. I saw the fare reduced but the rep said I would have to cancel the original booking and rebook in order to take advantage of the lower fare. I did the math. Not worth it so we kept what we originally booked. In the past, you didn't lose your perks but you do now.
Hi again, we love cruising but in order to go more often we actually do spend minimal on extras on board. No packages as they do work out expensive and wi fi is so bad just wait for a port and then use the free one in the terminal to check emails etc. Do your homework prior to sailing watch Chanel’s like this one a big help. Choose your cabin location carefully and compare cabin pricing carefully sometimes a better cabin can cost just a little more but at other tines it’s not worth it. Compare even against different providers deposit amounts vary hugely. Don’t book shore excursions with the boat (convenient but so pricy) there are plenty of providers just waiting as you come down the gangplank often same thing for a fraction of the price. Speciality dining, may be once for a special occasion, but you’ve paid for the main dining room and several other cafes that also offer delicious menus at no additional cost for food, just pay for the coffees occasionally or make one yourself at a drinks station on deck. You don’t have to pay for gratuities you can have them removed at guest services and just tip individually. Cruise ships should be paying their staff more especially non front line staff that can’t get tips, and not expect you to cover the shortfall. Just do the sums is all I’m saying.
Interesting video.
I have never cruised and never will. When I go on holiday I like to do my own thing with people of my own choice.
The thought of being incarcerated for a couple of weeks with a bunch of people I couldn't care less about leaves me completely cold.
There are far better ways to spend a holiday.
Sure am glad to not be cruising with YOU!
So I take it you never fly anywhere,go to restaurants or stay at hotels ,or campgrounds .Have it your way but it certainly limits your options
John first of all my comments were to the OP,and I'm curious about people who criticize things that they have never even done.Thats a true head scratcher.If they actual tried it I could respect the comment but if they haven't they should only comment on the weather
@@johne6562 Bang on. If someone wishes to express an opinion they are free to do so. All have limits and differences. I know fir me, it would be unwise to go on a alcohol included vacations because of those that would be particularly attracted to them. Others may love that sort of thing. Kids travel free? Another one not for me. All do not have same interests or tolerances. Outdoor movie screens? Big no. Just noise and waste of space. Just how it is. Taking offence, just why?
Amazing that we are relatively few who don't want to feel crowded on our vacation as opposed to the millions who enjoy it. To each his own, thank goodness.
I'm a travel agent and about to experience Virgin Voyages in a few weeks. Be very careful, there are a lot of traps on that cruise line!!
Keep me posted!!! Love to hear your take once you have been and what clients you pitch / suggest them to
I see so many people complaining about itinerary changes. Our last cruise was with Marella, it includes flights, food, and a drinks package, although you can upgrade to premium if you want. We upgraded to premium and to the top cabin. Marella is great, though, if you want a bargain cruise. I shall certainly use them again. M
Marella may well be the Primark of cruise lines but you know what to expect and, as you say, excellent value. We've got our 3rd next month and then back to Virgin in Feb. We like to sample all the lines...not for us going only on the same line, the same ship, the same week, the same itinerary as I've seen some people brag about.
I love Marella for that very reason. Snobbery is rife amongst cruisers but I have found Marella to be excellent for service and value for money. Much better than some so called ‘premium’ cruise lines!
@@lorna_md I totally agree. We've been with Royal Caribbean and NCL. Mx
Regarding changes in the itinerary, my Norwegian cruise of Greek and Turkey had an immediate change with the start of the war in Ukraine. Odessa was replaced with a second day in Istanbul. Understandable and acceptable. (I stand with Ukraine!) A month before our sailing, ports in Romania and Bulgaria were changed to two more Greek islands. NCL did offer $60 credit per cabin for each of these two port changes to all passengers, but you had to go to the Service Desk to ask for it. It was NOT automatically applied to one's account. 😕
Hey, Gary, we love your videos. I'm curious about man overboard incidents - has this ever happened to your cruise? Gosh I hope not! Anyway thank you and forgive the odd question.
Thanks for watching and great to hear you enjoy them. I have not been on a cruise when this has happened fortunately
Your videoscare really helpful, thanks for that.Never have been on a cruise,but planning to do in 25 and it seems to me,it is generally a big rip off😂
Will be in our 171th cruise in the Wonder of the Seas. I wonder how much we will spend as Diamond Plus members! Refused upgrade offers!
171 cruises!!?? Maybe you should give some money to charities instead.
NCL recently put in place that your travel agent cannot reprice cruise 21 days prior to departure. Typically when price dropped my agent would resubmit and refund the difference. They are definitely getting more crafty as of late.
I don't know if this counts as a trap but: I recommend checking age limits for all excursions. I have had some where the upper age was restricted to 65 (meaning that I couldn't go) and frequently those where my grandchildren are too young.
Have noticed this too. They must believe that 65 year olds are all shrivelled up, sitting on deck in shawls sipping coco. In reality my wife and I walk 5 miles a day while at sea and 10 in port (in Europe) go to the gym every day and swim as much as possible.
I have never ever seen that age limit. That is terrible. But I cruise mostly on Princess and Celebrity.
Depending on your travel insurance, you may have compensation for an itinerary change. In the past when a cruising in the Med, weather was too bad to allow safe docking at a port stop so we had an extra "sea day". Our travel insurance compensated us for the missed port.
Our travel insurance won't pay for any itinerary changes announced prior to the cruise start date but will compensate for changes made while on the cruise. I suspect many insurance companies have similar restrictions.
The only time I go into the stores , is to spend nonrefundable cruise credits😊
Not in german Pauschalreiserecht, they can change itineraries but you still get a reimbursement. Last AIDA tour we did we got 50% voucher (were too lazy to go to court) because 4/4 ports were not embarked and the route was changed completely
Excellent video, though about half of the cabin age rules were described completely opposite of what the text of the actual rule on the screen said.