NCL All inclusive, thoughts ?

In April this year NCL (Norwegian cruise lines) have taken the brave step of going All inclusive, now there are other ships that have this, but generally speaking its the six star plus that offer this, even then you do not always get everything. this is on all ships all sailings, apart from bookings before this date.

Some people are loving it, others not so happy, for me it will work, I like the drinks packages when I am on board any of the ships as I have been known to partake in a couple of glasses of the Red stuff !! Although it is not just alcohol, this includes all juice and soft drinks. Where I fear they may lose is the loyal customers they had in the past who simply do not drink, and I can genuinely see the point they are making as they are now paying for a service they are unlikely to use or gain true benefit from.

The second thing they have included are the gratuities (oooh sore subject again with many, especially the Brits!) we are a generous nation of cruise lovers, but unlike the Americans, our culture is to tip when we have had good service , and not before, as I said some people are fine, others not.

What do you think ? should other cruise lines follow suit ? I know there are lots of my fellow cruise consultants who would love this to happen, I have often wondered why they cannot work it in reverse, Go all inclusive with the drinks, then offer people an “opt out” giving a discount, a daily amount would have to be calculated to make it fair for all duration’s

So, If say doing a 7 night cruise, not interested in drinks and willing to “pay as you go” £25 credit pp per day, I think that could work.

If this ever happens in the future I will be referring back to this blog!! And taking credit for the idea …lol