Former passengers reflect on how cruising has changed

Modern cruise ships are becoming more innovative and interesting with each new ship launched. But while cruise lines try to innovate and improve the experience, many avid cruisers feel nostalgic for what cruising “used to be.”

Some Reddit users share the general belief that cruise lines care more about making money than the experience of their guests.

This helps explain the somewhat controversial rise of megaships – as the largest in the world Seas icon which launched earlier this year.

As ships get larger, cruise lines can make more profit from the increased number of guests and often charge more per cruise. orders for their newest ships.

But as prices rise, services diminish—at least that’s the experience shared by some cruisers on Reddit.

“RCCL (Royal Caribbean) is cutting back on things that will never come back… Like turndown service at night. Those wet pre-dinner shower towels are here to stay because of their cuts, despite overcrowding and growing demand.” wrote one former guest.

“Less all-in and much more nickel-and-dimming. More “special” crap and other “exclusive” crap that you have to pay for… Pretty soon, I expect they’ll start charging to ride the water slides or use the pool.” another cruiser intervened.

“I also feel that over 10 years ago, cruising was just an amazing vacation that catered to all your needs. Now, to get the same experience, you’ll have to pay extra. What was once a basic service has now become a premium service.” added a third.

Even with more space on board, cruisers are also noticing that their sailings feel more crowded than before, degrading the onboard experience and resulting in much longer wait times.

Earlier in November, Carnival passengers were complaint on brand ambassador John Heald’s Facebook page after the crowds led to long lines and made it difficult to get seats for concerts.

Just recently, Carnival announced that it would have to… suspend key benefits for elite members loyalty program VIFP (Very Important Funny Person) on several sailings in December due to the large capacity on board.

However, crowds were seen on several cruise lines, not just Carnival. A guest who may be sailing outside the peak season or may prefer older ships until the hype of new ships dies down may have a better experience.

Positive changes in the cruise experience

Some Reddit users also noticed that cruise lines have relaxed their dress code rules. and formal night attire – which the majority did not mind.

“One of the biggest differences I’ve seen is how much more casual dining has become. I remember when I first started traveling, it was quite an event and we had to mellow out in time to get ourselves in order. Now we can show up in the same clothes we spent the whole day in.” wrote one Reddit user.

While this is quite a big shift, most appreciated that they didn’t have to spend money on new clothes or devote time to getting ready.

Read also: 10 things you would like to take with you on a cruise

“Part of the problem with dressing up for dinner is that people just don’t have that kind of dressy clothes anymore. Almost everything on land doesn’t require as much dressing up as it used to… For the most part that’s a good thing, as far as I’m concerned, but it changes the whole dynamic of dressing up everywhere.” replied another Redditor.

However, in special circumstances, dressing in more modest clothing can still be considered disrespectful. Most recently, guests of the Carnival pushed away passengers who were not dressed for an exclusive and formal dinner at the chef’s table.

But as the recognition of wardrobe flexibility shows, not all cruise changes are bad.

Some recent cruise guests were quick to point out that the introduction of Starlink Internet, which is now used by many major cruise lines, has greatly improved the situation. improved Wi-Fi at sea.

Others noted that some cruise lines have also improved their entertainment to the point where they can stage multiple Broadway-caliber shows on a single sailing.

Disney Cruise Line is especially known for its full-length musicals – and is about to launch Disney Treasure at the end of December along with brand new musical inspired by Moana.