Cruises, Cruise Deals & Cruise Holidays

Its time many cruise lines, and NCL in particular, took note of all the bad press emanating from UK cruise reviews. They do not seem to have realised that British people do not want to be exploited by the hidden charges that have now become so common. I am sure the average Brit would rather pay an honest price for a good standard of product than have to pick and choose between hopelessly managed and overbooked retuarants, have a reasonable choice of entertainment, and be afforded the courtesy and respect you should expect when on a cruise. When the exorbitant cost of drinks is then subjected to a 15% or more hike under the guise of a "service charge" then it does make some see red. It can be no wonder that many people opt to cancel their daily gratuities, which is not a practice I condone, but some will see it as the only way to make their point. Its a pity that its the crew members who lose out in the end and its no wonder that service levels are in decline.

You should not have been surprised at any of your complaints, as they are rapidly becoming the norm on most cruise lines. The "Ryanair fleet" is expanding at a great rate of knots but that is the future of cruising. PS We went on back to back cruises on the Jade earlier this year and the service was excellent.