Candocruises

We just got off Allure on 12/19 and started hearing rumors on the last night of the cruise that a more stringent mask policy would be enforced on the next sailing. During this 8 day cruise nearly everyone grudgingly complied with the existing marks policy, however capacity limits on the elevators, in public bathrooms, etc were somewhat ignored by most passengers. It was great being back at sea but the reductions in activities and shows was disappointing. Like you I am not a “medically qualified” professional but the assessment that the new variant is little more than a common cold is right on. It’s to bad that the media and certain bureaucratic dynasties continue to fan the flames of Covid hysteria at the expense of our country, the cruising industry being a microcosm of the deleterious results we must endure in order to enjoy our lives. There never has been nor will there ever be a virus free event among groups of people living their normal daily lives. Sail on!!

Who is cruising at 1994 prices? We started cruising in 2002 and had a balcony cabin on Explorer of the Seas for 7 nights for less than $1,300. In fact I believe we spent less than $1,800 for the entire trip to include staying in the Doubletree on Miami Beach the night before the cruise. Can't do that now.

It seems many in the RCI management have experience working in the airline business and it shows. Remember though, people must fly for business or to go a great distance in a limited time frame, however no one has to cruise. Keep reducing the experience and people will find other ways to spend their leisure time and money. Remember when you looked forward to flying? You may soon have that same memory of cruising on RCI as you spend your vacation elsewhere.

One of the things that impressed us when we started cruising 15 years ago was how nice it was to be able to dress up and enjoy being amongst an entire ship of passengers all trying to look their best. You did not dare go to the MDR in the evening unless you were in compliance with the "evening dress' recommendation. Over the last few years this standard has not been enforced and in fact most nights it looks no better than your local McDonalds at lunch time, and sometimes even worse than that. RCL should return to their previous standards. For those slobs who are just to stressed out by having to get dressed up while on vacation RCL should rope off a section of the MDR or possibly dedicate the upper floor to accommodate those who wish not to look descent and come to the MDR to "eat" instead of a dining experience.