10 things I hated about the Royal Caribbean - Oasis Class cruise ship

[@sparklingdragonfairy]

i will say...i recently was on oasis of the seas...and for a first time cruiser it was a dream...embarkation went through without a hitch...debarkation was the same...i never felt crowded no matter what venue i was in...excursions were phenomenal...i have nothing but good things to say...i must have been fortunate...I LOVED MY TRIP!!!

[@SandyToes75]

Even with issues, there is never a cruise that I haven’t enjoyed! There are issues on land and they are mot as easily overlooked as they can be on the ocean!

[@Claresholms]

Nothing bothers me more than line hijackers. But, even more than that, the staff who pretend to NOT SEE THEM. Grrr.

[@carolehayden8566]

Give me a cabin in the woods, a small boat and solitude. That ship would dissolve my nervous system. 😸 I've cruised on smaller ships and did well, though.

[@bar10ml44]

I love reading that people think small is 1400 or 3000. People have no clue about cruising any more. NONE. The idea is to be at sea and enjoy the tranquility. Once upon a time the idea was to also get dressed up for dinner and bring some glamour into a life that mostly was work and dull and busy. You are trying to leave every day life behind yet on board you want everything to keep you entertained. Why can’t good company, and the sea be enough.

[@signalfire6]

So we're supposed to haul a fancy dress, tux, shoes along with everything else in our luggage so everyone can play dress up like a 3 year old in mommy's shoes? To heck with that. I want to relax, not spend an hour on makeup to look at other people's costume jewelry collection. I guess I'll find another way to 'vacation' that involves learning - about history, archeology, architecture - not hobnob with pretentious people.

[@petermautner4436]

@@signalfire6 I agree with you very much there , as well. Cruise ships now in a way are a globalists dream . Culture less crass commercialism . Culture , the arts, salsa,classical ,tango , Afro Cuban Jazz , Jazz , Merengue ,architecture , archeology etc define countries. What type of cruise ship would have the late Hundertwasser designed ? That still could be done .

[@penelopepitstop762]

I enjoy dressing up. I say if you don’t want to then don’t, but I am all for one “elegant” night for people who do like to dress up.

[@penelopepitstop762]

GJ K I agree, but I guess we are in the minority.

[@peterd5496]

@@penelopepitstop762 No, the 'vocal' minority squeal for their comfy (read well worn) clothing at all times. The majority of cruise customers enjoy putting on a dress or suit/tux/kilt

[@mircat28]

Doesn't matter what the good points are: 6,000+ passengers and 2,000+ crew...I don't want to vacation with 8,000+ people!

[@katiemarie7750]

Miranda Brooks haha...Neither do I. 😊

[@psauter417]

I sailed on this ship and I didn’t feel claustrophobic or crowded at all. I had a fabulous time and wouldn’t hesitate to sail on this ship again. I understand people have different preferences so I know not everyone is going to like a ship like this.

[@nancysatori4744]

If you stay on land you’re usually vacationing with many more people!😁

[@ameliamorales891]

Tybalt 19 that's right!

[@jaehaspels9607]

If you find 1 really annoying passenger; expect to see them around all of the time during the whole cruise and you can't get away from them unless you hole up in your cabin. Not only that; because the staff see you around the same person or people, they think you're friends and will arrange for you to eat w/ them every meal too. It's truly hell on water. I literally had to tell the Maitre D, "Don't seat me w/ him ever again."

[@jellyjack]

Now they have Terminal A in Miami which I’ve sailed Symphony of the Seas out of. Everyone was super friendly and we never had to wait. They do everything a lot differently. When we checked in online, we took our picture online. When you arrive at the terminal, the parking garage is right next to the terminal, so you don’t have to walk a long way. When you are in the terminal there is a massive row of friendly staff with an I-Pad waiting to see your SetSail Pass and government issued documents. Now if you didn’t check in online, there are stations where you can do that. Your Sea Pass card is waiting in your room so that makes it faster for you to get onboard. We never stopped when going through security. They had plenty of metal detectors for security and a employee directed you too a metal detector so the line keeps moving. When your onboard it feels like it has the same capacity of a smaller ship because it is so organized.

[@CC-TimesTwo]

Thanks for sharing. That's helpful. After watching this, I've started rethinking going on one of these RC ships, but maybe I'll just make sure to start in Miami. Lol.

[@christawilson3617]

Jelly Jack This was my experience Feb 2020! No issues - smooth sailing.

[@nikkir5285]

Your absolutely Correct!! I've been an avid cruiser since 1990, & I have to tell you, Cruising is NOT what it used to be!( I'm mid 40's btw), I just find the service & quality of food has decreased dramatically. I really hate all the added cost, ( especially for food), & your right, I was disgusted with the constant " UPSALE" in Royal Caribbean. I was especially disgusted with the Hour Special sales.. where they created a "Mock Black Friday, People were really ugly, pushing & shoving each other to get a 50% off t- shirt!!! Bigger Ships= More people.. At the buffet Dinning room, they had every table lined up like sardines.. If you wanted privacy there at the buffet dinning rooms... " good luck". The entire staff looked over worked & exhausted, & most were not friendly, ( With exception of some wait staff, & stewards.) I much preferred the old days of cruising, that were more intimate, & luxurious. I stick to the all inclusive resorts now.

[@teutonic2020]

nikki ryan Wow I totally agree - very well said! What all inclusives do you enjoy now?

[@humortangelo3975]

C L I stick to the Transgender inclusive resorts

[@kathkwilts]

I went on a cruise recently after not having cruised for a few years and I was shocked at how bad it had gotten... food, service, amenities all were terrible. Never got to sit near the pool... anytime dining has literally ruined dinner for those of us who like a set time at the same table... did not really get to know the crew or any other passengers...

[@humortangelo3975]

Kathy Somers You may need to try a transgender cruise.

[@LoveBlueTopaz]

Try Oceania

[@xrpmatt3891]

Just did my first cruise two weeks ago on the Carnival Sensation. I will never spend another dime with them again. The boat was nowhere near ready. It was filthy. Two broken hot tubs and water slide. Toilet in our room was broke and smelled the whole cabin up for days because it was leaking sewerage fumes back into the room from the storage tanks below. We left 4 hours late and there were still painters working with epoxy paint that stunk up the whole ship. They even painted the pool overnight on the third day and filled it up and let people go in the next morning. It was a disaster.

[@ILC-eo6vk]

We've been on Allure twice and Harmony once, and never had any bad experiences. We're sailing on Symphony next January.

[@SandyToes75]

Every cruise is different and if you ask 10 guests they will each have had a different experience, some living and some hating the exact same thing. I am glad there is variety on the sea.

[@rockyalvarez520]

What you described is a colossal failure of management.

[@lincolnhudgens3007]

G mail, I'm sorry but if any cruise line has a group of TA's and they allow any of this to happen to the folks that are going to be booking people on said line, it is a failure of management

[@shellymac7597]

@G MAIL Did you watch the video? In the beginning he said that there were things he liked about it and things he did not like about it. This video is about the things he did not like about it. Don is a travel agent and his vlogs evaluate the good and the bad of cruise lines. He is doing his job.

[@IronwaveStudios]

Exactly!!! This is one of the top reasons I choose Carnival. They have GREAT service

[@debbieaguirre3066]

Thank you for pointing all these out. I myself don’t care for overcrowding events and especially rude people when I just paid hundreds of dollars. This cruise line would not fit me.

[@joyce52]

The cruise line is not the problem. It is the new mega ships that are the problem. Royal Caribbean is an excellent line. Just stay with the smaller ships and you will have a good time. I have been on Grandeur of the Seas twice, Soverign once and Explorer once. Even the Explorer was more than I needed, but I loved it. Celebrity is also lovely. From what I was told, it is owned by R.C. and is their top of the line ships. Traveling alone is difficult, let alone being on a mega ship. I have gone alone on Celebrity Summit to Bermuda twice.

[@Tiffanyg12]

I would form my own experience rather than accept someone else's opinion. We don't know if he didn't follow directions as indicated or spoke rudely to the staff. I love cruising!! I would go every week if I could. Royal is my favorite but everyone has a favorite line.

[@boydtaylor404]

Holland America - none of those problems. 1st class. Thanks for the knowledge. Going on Horizon in 19 days. I will report.

[@mindyschocolate]

I loved my Holland America cruise. We were in a port and docked next to a Carnival ship which totally dwarfed our ship, but we just had the two dinner seatings, where that ship had three (they had that many people) and their ship was LOUD! Straight up party ship. I was 19 at the time, so me shaking my head at that ship is saying something. I couldn’t say enough good things about HA.

[@douglasgillis3712]

My wife and I sailed on Holland America in December 2018 to the Panama Canal. We enjoyed the trip but were surprised that they charged you for water when debarking for a tour in any and every port. Still warm in December, the cruise line didn’t care about their customers were properly hydrated! That bothered me and the amount they charged was absurd. We won’t talk about the other nickel and dining!

[@MethosFilms]

Where is your report?

[@shakymoon8185]

@@mindyschocolate you sound like the most boring 19 year old

[@kristincalhoun299]

We are going on Holland America in November!!

[@horsewithnoname12345]

These giant mega ships are pretty much tourist traps similar to the Vegas Strip. Basically one giant mall trying to get money off of you left, right, above and below and everything costs 3-4 times more than elsewhere. It just doesn’t seem like a pleasant way to vacation. Whether you want to relax or are looking for action or party time, being nickeled and dimed everywhere is not fun for anyone. Room service shouldn’t be an extra charge (and at $10, you’re paying for your food) and soda should be included if you have the soda package.

[@josephlacerra8433]

At least in Vegas you can leave town if you get fed up.

[@nikkir5285]

yes, Very gaudy, & not relaxing. try an all inclusive resort, soome even include tours like Xcarret Hotel in Riveria Maya Mexico, ( 1 hour south of Cancun)

[@lisathaviu1154]

@@nikkir5285 Also, when you go to the Riviera Maya and stay at a hotel on the beach, snorkeling off of the beach incurs no extra charge at all, the pools are really big and the beach is right there!

[@grapas100]

La Reina del Sur - You are aware that no one forces you to buy the over-priced junk on cruise ships. If you don't like people, don't go on a cruise. If you don't do well with people of diverse ethnicity, don't go on a cruise. If you don't like loud, over the top entertainment, don't go on a cruise. Some of us enjoy all of these things, so we go on cruises.

[@horsewithnoname12345]

grapas100 projecting, much?

[@Letsmakeit-vj4md]

I work on allure , and from inside I can tell we work really really reaaallyyyy hard to make it great for everyone , some things are not in our hands and that's heart breakeing we work to make you happy and the terminal or government sometimes even the weather ruin all our efforts

[@louislokuta9617]

Fernanda. My wife and I have sailed on Allure. And we both wanted to tell you we had an absolutely amazing time and we appreciate everything the cruise staff does to make our trip enjoyable. We are diamond members at have sailed almost 15 times - it is the only way to vacation for us. I don't think Don is "complaining" in this video; rather he is providing "constructive criticism".

[@JesusIsLove7777]

I appreciate all staff on all royal Caribbean cruises! You guys make it amazing! What I HATE is passenger/guests making it worse for you guys!....and for this I apologize! Americans be absolute slobs and so jerky!

[@janettemanderson7304]

Fernanda, I was on the Allure for the same cruise Don was on. I thought that the ship staff was very friendly and nice. The ship is beautiful, the park is so pleasant, my little four year old loved the carousel, the shows were astounding, and the food was delicious. Don's comments were really criticisms of upper-level management decisions (like charging for room service, expensive cans of sodas, charges for tv movies, double charges for a shore excursion, crowded Promenade on Halloween--ugh!) by RCI. I'm glad I experienced the Allure. I hope you stay positive and that RCI makes some changes.

[@liveokmusic9042]

I can't believe how wonderful you all are week after week. My spouse & I have talked about it a couple times. The staff of Royal Caribbean is astounding! You deal with people vacationing back to back to back and you still make every trip magical for cruisers. Seriously, thank you!

[@JVRottweil]

@@JesusIsLove7777 Yes, only Americans though. the rest of the world isnt like that. Only Americans. Lol go stuff yourself

[@arthurevans1702]

I find it especially stressful showing up at the ship and having cops, security, or staff stressing you out by the yelling, and making you feel stupid.

[@miguelangelcativo4]

Been on Oasis, Allure and Harmony And have loved all of them.

Cruise lines fly flags of convenience. Does that not concern you? Cruise lines are a cultural imperialistic cesspool. They are greedy. They excise your money from you. You are stuck on this barge with thousands of glassey eyed tourists.

[@Peorhum]

It has turned cruise ships into malls. In the US malls are closing like crazy, yet cruise ships are becoming like a mall, even with a food court, and kiosks and high pressure sales. Shopping mall/amusement park.

[@judydenni2492]

That is because you can't have Amazon deliver on a Cruise ship.

[@oceanside88]

Peorhum Yes. Its bizarre. I want nature, scenery and a piano bar.

[@twixieshores]

Blame the people who look for the lowest price possible. That's led the cruise lines to sell cabins at a loss and try to make up for it in the shops, dining packages, drinks and the casino

[@aircastles1013]

Have you seen that movie Wall-E? That airship is where these cruise malls are headed!

[@rugby8-Philadelphia]

How about all of you Not Go.....and consequently, Not Complain!!! 😎

[@mountopia77]

If more of you listen to him and decide to NOT go, then it gets better cause your NOT there.

[@guyermover]

You are

[@roberthughes513]

With people like you there I’m glad we are not.

[@kiwikiwi2483]

Robert Hughes No he makes a good point. Unfortunately there are negative people who love to complain on cruises. Went on Symphony of the Seas back in September and we loved it.

[@sharonsmalls6846]

@@kiwikiwi2483 I went on Harmony of the Seas and I didn't have anything but a wonderful experience. I don't remember my embarkation process, perhaps because I went on in 2017. Going on Allure in 2020 and doing the same thing, which is recertification as a legal nurse consultant. I did two days of classes (8 hours each) while I was cruising. I met nurses from all over the country and it was awesome. So maybe some nurses don't complain about inconsequential issues. 💜

[@criticizze7031]

Lmao he’s completely correct. These cruises are amazing

[@reggieandherman4251]

Totally agree with you, Don, about having to book shows, dinners, etc ahead. How do you know what you'll feel like months ahead of the trip? I like the spontaneity of daily choice. Have sailed twice on large, rest on smaller ships. Smaller give more personal service and relaxed vacation.

[@Rjaylvs]

Reggie and her Man! You should instead choose any of the smaller ships it’s only the Oasis or Quantum Class ships require booking since they have over 5000 passengers onboard

[@jeffluo8960]

Smaller also gives you more seasickness.

[@classicrocklover5615]

Don - you have such experience on these cruises, the companies should hire you as a quality control and efficiency advisor.

[@beachbumis]

We didn't have any problems with embarkation on Oasis last year.

[@beachbumis]

@@jthird2992 I doubt this is fake news. Hopefully just an isolated case of poor customer service.

[@kevinbell4920]

That's because you were at port Canaveral!!!!

[@TheTylerShow]

Port Canaveral Is Were To Go

[@lorihensley1556]

Was in Oasis in January and no problems! It was our third time on that ship and never a problem. Will be on Harmony in October with extended family. I hope we have a good experience. I love RCCL

[@diannegarrett1569]

It was a nightmare. We sailed out of Orlando on the Oasis. Never again! Huge wait and oasis is way TOO big. Couldn't see one of the shows. They were all booked.

[@angelicashields9706]

I have taken 7 Royal Caribbean cruises. I have not had one bad moment in all these cruises. Our last cruise was this past April on Harmony of the Seas. We had a grand time. My husband now uses a mobility scooter, which was completely accommodated by Royal. We had an accessible stateroom, which was large and fabulous. Our attendant took wonderful care of us all week. My only “issue” was a question I posed to the excursion desk “Is there transportation to get my husband’s scooter to shopping areas like St. Thomas?” They had never received that question before. But once we returned home, I received an email from Royal that they were going to work on getting a bus to take mobility scooters to the shopping areas soon.

[@spoonerpurple]

I have an up sale story....i had some spa credits so i got this facial thing ..with lotions and im going to call them electrodes to the face treatment thing...the lady then handed me a mirror while i was still laying down..and pointed out how the treatment worked so good and look at your face......she then started the talk about how i should not go on any excursions and to buy her product instead and how this is so much more worth it....i told her i save all year long to both go on a cruise and to get off the boat and visit different islands and do fun things ..she told me i would never get this deal again .......i told her every woman knows about the face looking better when we lie down thing..im sitting up now...can i have the mirror now ??...can i have it ...miss..can i have the mirror??......she left I left LOL...Imagine that telling me to cancel all my excursions..yes i reported her

[@spoonerpurple]

PS other than that all my other spa treatments were great and when i had blond highlights put in my hair it was the best i ever had

[@hairdresser1300]

glad you reported her

[@spoonerpurple]

PS of course i paid i just didnt leave

[@bbergs8628]

I went to the Lotus Spa on the Regal Princess in day 2 to buy a spa pass so I could use the thermal suite & the young lady behind the counter was so nice, was upset that I didn’t get the first day discount- so she gave me a free package with their lemon facial scrub & loofah pad!! Did not try to sell me anything else & it was well worth paying for the thermal suites (love that therapy pool & the showers)!

[@katmoonspeaks]

I was trying to get a manicure and a pedicure last cruise and although that was the best mani and pedi ive had, I doubt I will book another another spa treatment because she spent half the time commenting on how bad my acne is and trying to sell me facial products while I was trying to relax.

[@fgfg633]

I stick to ships with 3,000 capacity and under.

[@tazman572]

My wife and I cruise on HAL. 0-5 kids per cruise, no loud parties, no fights, no food fights. Their largest ships are 2650 passengers. Always easy to board, great rooms, staff, and the best food when we speak to others that have cruised on other lines. Yes the crowd is older, (we are 58 and 60), but you can learn so much from them and have wonderful, intelligent conversations. We love it all.

[@barbararedfearn8104]

TeacherTeacher m

[@stephenconnell]

I stick with ships that don't sink.

[@hannah_red]

I liked the Disney Fantasy, and she holds 4,000 people! They really handle the crowds well.

[@gailhandschuh1138]

Hannah Williams we sail the Dream because the port is only an hour from home. We can drive down in the morning an still make early boarding. We are getting the Wish in 2022. So excited to see the differences on the bigger ship !! 😀😀😃

[@dwill123]

I've been cruising since the 1990s and all it took was one cruise on a mega ship (Anthem of the Seas) and I'm done with mega ships. The main concourse set up like a Saturday flee market in the parking lot with people hawking plastic watches and such. Attractions (like North Star) that you could never get on. And other things coupled with families and their unruly kids, nope I'm done. Don, you cruise multiple times a year (it's your job), maybe I can go once a year and to shell out the kind of money they want and not have things 'shipshape and Bristol fashion' is unacceptable.

[@nikkir5285]

AGREE! I also started cruising in 1990 ( at 20), I miss the " glamour", & luxurious treatment, that was present in the 90's.. The white gloved stewards, the gorgeous Artistic presentations at the buffets, the ice sculpting.. & the intimate, relaxing vibe. Everyone was treated with the same high 5 star treatment, no matter which cabin you had, & all the food was inclusive.

[@jimdunlop4427]

DWill, I totally agree with your main concourse assessment. Just got back from a trip on The Anthem and we discovered we will stick with smaller ships. Felt like a mall during the Holidays. Had to book everything in advance. But the service and food were excellent as well as the embarkation and debarkation. The mandatory mustard (sp?) drill was a joke. Had to wait (stand) around for almost 45 minutes. All they did was run a video on screens we could barely see and not hear at all.

[@deemariedubois4916]

Jim Dunlop Well that is worrying and kinda scary. Sounds like the crew feels there is zero chance of the big lady ever needing to be evacuated. That kind of attitude is what can cause a disaster.

[@georgeemil3618]

This sounds a lot like Quantum of the Seas which I took in Oct. 2018. I had forgotten about all this but they were the factors we booked our next cruise with Vision of the Seas with 2700 people instead of 4000. In the survey after the cruise, I wrote that the staff and crew has to be more diligent in stopping people from butting-in line. The other passengers butt-in line everywhere: restaurants, customer service, shows and even getting off the boat.

[@conniejohnson9393]

I really hope that Royal Caribbean will watch this video and take your complaints to heart. I know that each thing that you mentioned would have been on my top ten complaints as well. Looking forward to the things you liked to get a real feel for the ship.

[@k.m.5087]

Wow! You should really send this video to the Cruise Director.

[@SandyToes75]

To the marketing Dept at Royal.

[@susankaleta4243]

Was on the Allure in June. Never again. Totally agree with your comments! We'll stick with Princess!

[@SuperKenndog]

Thanks for that feedback. Proof positive that all ships aren't the same. I have sworn off MSC forever as well. Will try Princess. You had any experience with Celebrity?

[@thecreater2243]

Susan Kaleta, yes! Princess all the time. It is such a good vibe and not that crowded.

[@dennischerone6780]

You're only nickeled and dimed if you take the bait. Don't bite.

[@kellytakesian109]

True statement. I say no thank you and keep it moving.

[@smj112]

@@kellytakesian109 I do the same.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

$12 for a crappy movie on a tiny TV screen, $5 for a can of soda, and $10 for a single room service is not nickel and diming, that is a straight up rip-off.

[@swulff8778]

@@OMGWTFLOLSMH just dont buy into it! Been on over 30 cruises. Never get sucked into that and still have a great time.

[@fgfg633]

Exactly.

[@Sotweetie]

I was on the same cruise and agree with all of your points, especially the embarkation people being inefficient and rude. We had priority embarkation and were entering the line marked for it when a port agent demanded we go into another line. Another agent saw our boarding passes and told us to go back outside and into the line we initially tried to enter. The first agent spotted us, confronted us about switching lanes, and then went and argued with the second agent about it. Totally unprofessional. We paid extra to be in the Rising Tide bar for the Halloween show and were sad that we couldn't see the costume party at all. I was hoping they would do Halloween like they did the Dreamworks parades, moving through the promenade.

[@mysterious_goddess6680]

I'm surprised that no one approach or try to correct the problem at the same time. Plus, why didn't you ask for a supervisor? Don't be afraid to talk up. It saves everyone in the long run.

[@lorrainestables9747]

SoTweetie j7

[@lorrainestables9747]

SoTweetie bh8

[@lorrainestables9747]

SoTweetie n nn

[@swiftkarma4436]

These larger ships sound stressful. I'll stick with the smaller ones. So true you get to know the staff. On one cruise my daughter got a signed photo and chocolate covered strawberries sent to our cabin by the entire entertainment cast! It meant so much to her. Great video

[@migrose6547]

For us ALLURE and HARMONY embarkation was fast and everyone was polite. Rising tide was going up and down constantly. I agree about parade. I don't like that you have to book everything in advance either. If you don't have a balcony you do have to get out to see ocean. we really liked the overall ship. Booked HARMONY AGAIN.

[@damanibaraka7896]

I've been on celebrity once, and carnival 7 times. My last 4 cruises have been on Royal Caribbean (2 on mega ships) After RCL I can't go back to carnival.

[@migrose6547]

@@damanibaraka7896 never did Carnival, kinda always wanted to they have a lot of ships, but a bit apprehensive too. I've been happy with RCCL so why change?

[@Chasing_The_Dream]

Just got off the harmony. Loved it. Been on Anthem and Grandeur multiple times.

[@stoeve39]

We were on Allure in march, and we have no problems during embarkation. Nice and friendly people all over.

[@cllindse-greensboronc2744]

Funny - we call NCL the no-class line - never again.

[@2chrisward]

So many videos tell you how great everything is. I get that stuff isn't perfect and people up sell. You kept it real and all kinds of stuff I had no clue about. Thank you.

[@iloveanimals4081]

Simple is best. It you want a theme park and a shopping mall stay on land.

[@strydom4]

I love your positivity, and your detailed yet balanced "criticism". I wish I had watched this before my first cruise recently.

[@artsiecrafty4164]

I was on the Allure two years ago. My feelings exactly. Unpleasant. I’d never go on that size ship again.

[@Podgey25]

I loved the Allure. We went on her un Europe (Med) we're going again same itinerary, next year. Its the port terminal staff thats to blame. But up to RCI to sort it. So, always complain on your questionnaire

[@ryanmatthew511]

@@Podgey25 The issues I have with this ship is that its a giant shopping mall. You pretty much only feel the sea when you are up on the pool decks. Pathetic to go on a vacation inside a shopping mall, big design flaw. Radiance of the seas = much better if you want to experience the ocean and feel like you are on a luxury cruise ship.

[@Podgey25]

@@ryanmatthew511 my favourite is the Adventure of the Seas.

[@stevesanders6152]

I think we are getting close to the maximum size of a cruise ship after which point it becomes unmanageable, unenjoyable, and totally depersonalized. I mean, at this rate, eventually Royal Caribbean will just detach Grand Cayman Island from the sea floor, slap some engines on it, and sail it around the Caribbean! I think my preferred size of ship is something like the Carnival Breeze size. While not a small ship, it's not what I'd call a mega-ship. Large enough to have a wide variety of food and entertainment, but small enough where you could get to know the crew and some of your fellow passengers. On thing I enjoyed about that ship was that I got to know the musical entertainment director. As a musician myself, I'd see him at shows, he'd come over and sit down over a few drinks and we'd talk music. (My drinks. He never drank on the job!) I like the personal touch on a cruise!

[@timwolfers7880]

Great comment on sailing the island away! We are far past too large for cruise ships. 3,000 guests should be the maximum. The problem is, you need more guests to support the cost of all the extra bells and whistles to keep kids occupied, while the parents drown themselves in overpriced drinks. 🤪

[@lightlife917]

Agreed

[@soshiangel90]

Even though I have no problems with the mega ships in concept, I just wanted to make my LOL noted on the island joke. Because yeaaaaaah. Lmao

[@mindyschocolate]

Steve Sanders Ioved my cruise with Holland America. A much smaller ship compared with Carnival. Was not a party ship like Carnival and everything was easy and manageable, including meals.

[@louish.3386]

The Breeze is a nice ship!!!! The Cruise Director was the MC for a lot of the events. He did a Great JOB

[@soniadowney7427]

If I went on a cruise, I'd totally forget the shopping ...I have a large mall up the road

[@Joe-lk6oc]

Excellent, excellent review. This was a VERY informative review. Every single complaint was well explained and your thoughts are SPOT on!

[@phineasjwhoopie4615]

A $5.00 can of soda? I agree. Price gouging is theft! Line cutters ought to be thrown in the brig!

[@Thetravelingmoes]

Wow, thank you for this video. I always see the good side and it's nice to also hear the downsides. Don, I subbed. You're great. Thank you Brenda

[@brickgrandma]

We just came back from the Anthem of the Seas and a lot of what you just said applies to that ship also, they should be ashamed of their selves, love your videos Don.

[@bkniker]

The initial boarding process sets the tone for the cruise.

[@mckenna8663]

It took us nearly an hour and a half to relax after we were treated so rudely by the men in the parking garage area. I've never been spoken to as rudely as I was there. I'm not a snob, but you just don't treat people that way.

[@valerief1231]

After the fiasco with Hurricane Harvey, I will not opt for RCCL as a first choice. And we are flagged. What I mean is, we are supposed to get 25% off a future cruise since ours could not be fulfilled. Every time we tried to book it, mysteriously the cruise we chose would suddenly be sold out for the cabins we wanted. Happened enough times that we are sure they just don’t want us on their ships

[@hangtime79]

Valerie Foster likely not that but instead of giving you a straight 25% discount, they applied an awards fare like discount to your account. Cruise ships use Revenue Management just like hotels and airlines. So when you go to apply the discount it shows as sold out b/c the number of fares avaliable with that discount is zero, but there are still plenty of cabins on the ship. I would try to book earlier in the window or call a travel agent / RCCL and get a human to help you book.

[@darrenchow1314]

Great video Don. I recently cruised with RCCL on Oasis 2 weeks ago and experienced everything you mentioned. Particularly the embarkation process which was a nightmare with crazy long lineups. Probably the longest line I've ever been in for anything. I was impressed at how fast they were able to get it to move considering the size but we had elderly people in our party and we made them wait on the side until we got closer to the front and they would rejoin only to realize there was another long line after that (and then another). We had to park them several times before we finally reached the 'true' front of the line. Secondly the room service... I travelled on Allure 5 years ago and had an amazing experience and one of the highlights was the room service which was FREE.. but now there's a charge.. Really felt that RCCL is now gouging every last dime. Despite these issues we still had a good time and booked with Anthem in 2020 but I suspect that if RCCL continues this trend my cruise days are numbered. Any other cruise lines you recommend I try?

[@sallychipman9857]

Sounds like it would be more pleasant to stay on the smaller ships then on the bigger ones.

[@swiftkarma4436]

@Brian Steven I think I'd have the same sentiments if I went on a larger ship. I like the intimate feel of smaller ships

[@p9a9r21]

There are obvious and predictable trade-offs for cruise consumers with booking a cruise on one of the mega ships. My last cruise on a mega ship (4500 passengers and crew) was over five years ago. I decided the upgraded amenities and attractions were not worth the trade off of value add. The near universal barrage of up selling by mega cruise line operators can turn what should be a high value add vacation into a Black Friday at Walmart on the seas.

[@jaehaspels9607]

The smaller ships are nicer for older people too because it's not so far to walk from one end to the other. Still, after 18 cruises, I want to vomit whenever someone asks if I want to go on a cruise again.

[@Dioxinpie]

True. Nickle and dime-ing you at every opportunity

[@garnerequestrian]

Small class ships are very confining and offer much less to do. Food is also less of a focus on smaller ships oddly. I have cruised on many ships of all sizes. I will not cruise on a small ship any more. No deck space, very few places there isnt a crowd at, the entire ship crams in to the limited few events. No thank you to small ships and I have been on many, being a diamond lvl cruiser. I was also able to board oasis of the seas within a 20 minute time span of arriving at port.

[@tubamansmom7012]

I agree with you on many of your assessments. We are loyal Royal cruisers and have just about been on every ship in their inventory. Part of what is turning me off is the up charge for things like room service. This has always in the past been such a treat. We didn't use it often, but that one day at sea that we wanted breakfast delivered to our room. Now with the up charge? No.They used to have the coupon books and now they are loaded on your card. Its like they want to be noted as having these great amenities but make it harder for you to actual USE them-THAT pisses me off. It's insulting. We've noticed the subtle changes in RCCL over the last 5 years and I think RCCL needs to be very careful not turning into the airline industry where passengers will be nickel and dime'd. Its a turn off. They are competing with Norwegian in giving the free options (drink packages, internet, etc) at booking and now being forced to get some of the money back in these small ways.

[@nevilletisch9637]

Did my first cruise on allure in 2012 loved it but when dropping bags at port guy loading bags was after tip (something we don't do in australia). Well i had i suitcase and a small backpack and smallest note i had was $20. When he asked for tip i siad i only have a $20 do you have change. Well the guy was so rude did not want to give change. Then when he finally did he pulled out a wad of cash bigger than my fist. If i had my way i would have given him nothing but if i had done that i bet my bag would have never made the ship.

[@lijohnyoutube101]

neville tisch Its rude not to give change back but something that is hard sometimes for non-Americans to understand is that the tips in service industry is how they get paid. Some states service minimum wage is under $3/hr. People thing tips are ‘extra’ but in reality they are by far the vast majority of income received!

[@Colombia20102018]

Lisa Eichler-Johnson I remember seeing blue sings that say no need to tip in Fort Lauderdale. I’m going there in 3 weeks. I will take a pic.

[@nayosilver1180]

Well, you said it at the beggining of your comment..."you don't tip in Australia"...but when you go out of Australia or in a cruise that is not an Australian ship, well, then you should tip as the rest of the world do. Now, if you are tight on the money because you barely made it to pay for the tickets....maybe you need to save more before going to your next trip. Or, travel doing auto-stop like all the backpackers do so you can save as much as you can.

[@estellagutierrez795]

@@nayosilver1180 me stay home

[@nayosilver1180]

@@estellagutierrez795 ....Exactly! Me too.

[@jamesbecker4326]

I have been on about 26 cruises. 1 princess, 1 costa, 12 NCL, and 12 Royal Caribbean. ships varying from 2500 to 6000 passengers. I can only remember about 2 or 3 times we really had any embarkation problems. I remember one time the previous cruise had noro virus and we could not board because they were deep cleaning the ship, pretty much out of their control and they were doing everything they could to take care of us. I prefer the big ships because they have soo much to offer with multiple entertainment venues, shows offered 2 or 3 times a week instead of only once, all kinds of different things to do such as ice skating or bumper cars or now go karts. I slightly prefer RCCL to NCL but it is pretty close. Each person looks for different things that they either enjoy or bother them, I try to go with the flow and make the best of each day.

[@Mark-pe2sh]

His problems were outside the terminal. Longshoremen, contract security, police under port authority control. Royal can't even go out and address a problem outside.

[@Patty4580]

I agree. All the “problems” he encountered (including other passengers’ rudeness, port agents, prices rising on excursions, parades being blocked by passengers in the promenade, etc.), have nothing to do with it being a large ship. (In fact, he was just comparing to other cruise lines.) I encountered ALL of those on the Majesty (2nd smallest ship on the fleet), and NONE on the Ovation (one class below Oasis). So really, you just have to go with the flow. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@7JordansTravel]

I just disembarked from Oasis, and I'm an agent, had a group of ten... Took us 35 minutes from start to finish to get on ship. No issues. Same for disembarking. Less than 20 min, and we were off. Now the shows are A WHOLE different story on Oasis... Lol did not like the majority of them

[@dprice5980]

Carletta Jordan I love mega ships! I’ve cruised Oasis the past 2 Septembers and had no major problems. I would love to see contemporary jazz with artists like Boney James or Marcus Anderson etc. “Cats” was not my thing but I suffered through it because my 5 year old granddaughter wanted to see it. We’re cruising Ovation to Alaska this coming September!

[@tonyofarrell2775]

Bullshit

[@Patty4580]

@D Price We just did Ovation to Alaska. The staff was wonderful and the views magnificent! You will love it!

[@anjmaga27magallanes69]

Very transparent with your information and I thank you for this excellent review of less bang for our Bucks!

[@DeluxHippopatumus]

Do more videos of things that werent great I love hearing about them and who knows maybe they'll see them and change some things

[@kaysandel3970]

WOW,So glad I watched this video. You confirmed what I had suspected about R.C’s newer bigger class of ships.Thanks for the information.💕💕

[@dwalker6868]

To me Intimacy is a lost. I’ll have more to say after my next trip in December about the mega ships I’m used to my lovely Princess line.

[@betsychristner644]

Totally agree with you. I loved the Oasis of the Seas, but this ship was substandard. We arrived in our large balcony stateroom and noticed the towels were tattered, something i would use as a rag, the next day they were better. The bed was hard. The room service ridiculous. The couple next door were up until 4:00 - 5:00 am every morning, we called security 5 nights out of 7, when we got home I called Royal Caribbean and they gave us a whopping 15% off our next cruise, big deal, I never complain, we are crown and anchor members but was so disappointed with this ship!!

[@ajlisknillat]

All my fears of a cruise experience, mentioned right there. I always knew the huge ships werent for me. Hope serenade of the seas is much better ? :D

[@thecanadian6958]

We did a back to back on the Oasis just before Covid hit but we had a great time on the ship. Didn't have any problems on embarkation day even with two kids. The only line jumper we had was a Quebecer who had to be with his kids who were further up the line then him at the rock climbing wall. We actually planning our next cruise on the same ship for next year for another back to back.

[@mjohn7577]

Thanks for this video..I have a cruise scheduled on Oasis of the Seas next week...This is my first mega ship cruise...And I pray all goes well...You're not the first to bring up these issues and I really hope RCL is listening..I've watched a lot of videos and listened to a lot of reviews on RCL Cruises and the overwhelming feeling I'm getting is one of "corporate greed"...And it's a real turn-off...I love cruising and want to try all the cruise lines at least once...But that doesn't mean I have to spend my money in the same place twice!

[@Tiffanyg12]

Not every ship will be perfect. I've cruised with rrcl, carnival, and ncl and there were good and negative points for each. Each week is different so one person's experience will be different from another. My preference is with RCCL I like the Oasis class ships but I prefer the freedom class ships bettter

[@deemariedubois4916]

J Third I respectfully disagree. Don doesn't play that game. If you watch his videos he is 100% pro cruise and has done countless cruises. What I like about Don is his absolute honesty. He made it clear that this was HIS experience but certainly not everyone elses'. I'm glad you had an incredible cruise. I wish that for ALL. And I'm confident that so does Don. It's his business and he doesn't as you said BS about it. I'm going now to watch his pros about the cruise which I know will promote the best parts of his cruise. Don simply gives his personal cruise experience, what you do with it is up to you.

[@mckenna8663]

@@jthird2992 I have gone on many Royal Caribbean ships, but the first time I went on the Oasis I was done with this ship and possibly any of Royal Caribbean's larger ships. Though I don't necessarily agree with every single thing he said, it's mostly because I didn't experience a few of those things. I did see the rising Tide bar go up and down. So that I'm not necessarily agreeing with. But everything else, spot on.

[@micmart3000]

@@jthird2992 You are way too salty over a youtube video. Perhaps you need a vacation.

[@sailingsolar]

Ha ha! Been a a cruise 2 years ago, on carnival line. You just reminded me of all the relentless gouging I suffered. Thank you very much. Even so the called smaller sbips are relentless but not as bad as what you experienced.

[@maryloufarnsworth8461]

This seems like a prime example of big is not always better. The first cruise I ever went on was on a Celebrity ship and was perfect. We sailed out of New York. Embarkation was smooth and quick. Service was impeccable. Food was beyond delicious. Since then I have been on two RCL cruises and they were not as good. I want to take an Alaskan cruise in the future so I am hoping I can get a good one.

[@ritafreeman3252]

Marylou Farnsworth I also sailed Celebrity it was amazing

[@darkdelta]

Sounds like scale is the problem, if you have a problem with, say ATT, they are so big, they really have no interest in helping an individual. Using voice mail firewalls for customer service they don't care if you change carriers, the're will be five customers to replace you. I suspect it's the same thing with RCL.

[@timwolfers7880]

@@darkdelta the best ships to Alaska are Holland America. You spend most of your time sightseeing, the stuff on the ship is useless, plus, there are only 13-1700 passengers, not 3,000+ Food is excellent also. I've cruised 6 times on HAL, and only bad experience was 1 day of rough sea.

[@brianjessica8746]

Celebrity is RCL

[@lateshiabutler2851]

This is really good information. I really appreciate this feedback. I'm a frequent traveler with Carnival, I think I would stay with Carnival. Probably NOT as upscale as Royal Caribbean, but its very nice to me and my family. I've NEVER had a negative experience on Carnival, the Customer service is always Good. Boarding is Quick and easy.

[@TheKurtsPlaceChannel]

Great video. Thanks for posting this. Have a nice day.

[@MeowMeow-vo9cj]

Watching this in 2022 after coming back from Holland America’s Alaska cruise last week… was considering taking my older kids (teens) on Allure or Oasis next summer… I watched this video cuz I’m considering a family cruise with RCCL with my older kids next summer. Holland America has much less amenities for sure and the shows are definitely less than glamorous, but there is NO fee for room service, on demand movies in cabin are free and a canned pop is $2.50 (yes, in 2022)! Even a beer bucket of 5 (12-16oz @depending on brand) is $29-30!!! I will watch your best 10 things you love video before deciding if RCCL is worth it. Thanks for making this video, appreciate it. God bless!

[@stephenthompson8373]

I went on this ship and I agree with all 10 of your complaints. My cruise was super bowl weekend - for the superbowl they had lots of food setup for free (sausages, hot dogs, etc) but all I wanted was some popcorn - the popcorn was an UPCHARGE!! I waited in a long line to get popcorn and then found out they were charging for it!! I hated all the constant upcharges on the ship and it really made the cruise very disappointing. I don't drink much alcohol so I had a drink package that included soft drinks and freshly squeezed juice only to find out the fresh squeeze juice was only available at a couple places and many were not the places that had breakfast!

[@joyce52]

Don, this was a very informative video. I have never been on a Mega ship and have no desire to do so. I am a lone traveler and I just feel the ships are getting so big and I would feel like an ant on one of them. I want to be on the smaller of the ships so that I do have a chance to meet people and mingle. It would be frightening to me also, because it is like trying to make your way through the streets of NYC. I have been on about 12 cruises and my favorite of the three lines that I cruised on are Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. I love the Summit. The perfect ship for travelers who are alone. Would like to try some others, but have hesitations about doing so.

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

At Port Canaveral, when we drove up to the parking deck entrance; which had a gate ; the attendant on duty was having a snack break, and ignored me until I said, " excuse me." Then he actually asked me, " do you want to park in here?" My daughter said, " no, we just want to leave the car right here. We'll be back for it, after the cruise."

[@SandyToes75]

😂

[@ThomasDowdyWinslett]

Some 20 years ago I started sailing on RCI. I've moved on but because they changed more than I have changed. The up-sale and packing in like sardines mentality went to the extreme. When I first started sailing with them we were able to connect with our dining room staff and felt like we were treated with respect. The staff who greeted us on embarkation and at various venues seemed happy to see us. That ended some four years ago. I am not sure what happened but it is a very different cruise line. Small, medium or large ship - RCI has changed. I still cruise and pay the same to go on other cruise lines as the perks they used to give don't add up for me any more.

[@georgeshepherd6431]

Alaska cruise May 5-12 2019 on HAL from Seattle. Easy, quick embarkation and was on the ship with 20 min. Wow!

[@ursulaeissner9945]

I’m sorry you had this experience . A couple of years ago we booked the Oasis of the Seas out of Fort Lauderdale, and check-in was easy as pie . We were barely out of the cab and our luggage was taken . Inside the terminal each deck had a separate check-in counter . We went straight to counter 10 for Deck 10 . Half an hour later we were seated in the holding area , and half an hour later a very nice lady came and led us to the line of people boarding the ship . So , no complaints at all .

[@frooke2]

Sounds like being trapped in a shopping mall for 5 days... no thanks.

[@TheHoneycomb5]

Have you ever been in it them

[@justinallen5392]

@@TheHoneycomb5 yeah. They suck lol

[@ColdSid]

There’s pros and cons to the oasis class they definitely are big but you can make the best of them

[@jefftimmerberg193]

A lot of your complaints re: excursion prices, upsells, tons of shopping, nickel & diming seem to be more of a symptom of modern day cruising as opposed to a critique of the Allure specifically. The entire industry is headed that direction.

[@weebles61]

I agree, almost all cruise lines now charge for room service, and the price of a single can of soda is average between all lines. It's all a money grab.

[@bruciethecuz9031]

OMG ! Thank you Don for this very insightful video. Sounds like some very annoying things along with nickel and diming going on by RCCL. That room service charge as well as that ridiculous cost of a can of soda is really the pits. I can see a middle of the night room service charge, but not during the normal course of the day. Royal and Regal coming up in 2019 and hopes are that Princess keeps up the class act that they are. Be well !

[@angiem4540]

We just finished our last RC cruise. The constant upselling and extra charges were horrible. We are even thinking other cruiselines are going down the same path. Maybe time to go back to regular flights and hotel vacations.

[@carmenhatfield4357]

We had VERY similar experiences on Oasis and being in a wheelchair made it that much more difficult to get through. I am a huge Royal Caribbean fan but I don't think we will be doing another Oasis class ship.

[@MFARAJR1018]

Thanks for letting me know my husband use a manual when travel now will definitely avoid that ship thanks From NYC

[@MFARAJR1018]

You helped in thinking my next cruise after one coming up June 27 carnival conquest thanks so much for posting about the wheelchair I thought I should have you were a big help

[@MFARAJR1018]

I think we should get together and check cruise that handicapped accessible if they get on video enough maybe will change one day

[@Bunkysworkshop]

This sounds like our last cruise with carnival. We arrived and got in line and was told that our time was 1pm. The time was 11:30am so I asked what happens and was told we had to wait till 1pm. They made us stand there in the heat until 1pm and we did ask when we were the only ones left if we could get on now and was told we must wait till our boarding time. I am going to agree with you on the mega ship deal. I did one and not interested in doing it again.

[@currentresident9548]

I understand that you are Canadian Don. Here in the US, the rudeness of customer service personnel has being going up and up and up. What you describe at the beginning of your video doesn't surprise me at all.

[@johnconnor2001]

Excellent video. I would love to one day go on a ship cruise and enjoyed your video. I know now some things to avoid or watch out for. The point about the shore excursion motorboat also can relate to couples where one or the other do not want to go (or is sick that day). Again, do they have to pay twice.

[@christinebailey9935]

you are ALWAYS positive. sounfs like they need to take suggestions and fix the problems

[@Chara121875]

Embarkation on Carnival Dream was like that, and there were only 3000+ on our ship.

[@paullewis2413]

6000+ on a floating kitschy shopping mall - no thanks you can keep it. It's all about getting as much money out of you, nothing else!

[@northkorea8005]

looks can be decieving the experience can be different stfu and go yourself before you speak

[@SandyToes75]

I do like the smaller ships but am becoming a quick minority. I have taught my children since they were small that the experience is what we are to enjoy and not the zillion things crammed into a space, calling their names. The larger ships have a couple of zillion things screaming to all of us.

[@vtxrider1800c]

Don I have watched many of your videos and you have said be fluid and not every cruise will go of without hitches(not in those exact words) I understand for people that cruise frequently their chances of getting a rough one are greater. The Oasis was our first and we enjoyed it very much with very little issues. Maybe because we had nothing to compare it with. You do have many good points for the cruise line to improve on which I hope that take heed too, but no matter how you slice or dice....it's still a helluva lot of people to move around. We are doing The Adventure to New England and Canada this Summer and looking forward to it. Thanks for your contributions.

[@mdepfl]

DON, the Rising Tide bar has a tip jar. When it gets heavy enough it trips the “up” switch.

[@petermckinnon7102]

Ha ha ha love it

[@alexise0226]

Was on the Carnival Horizon about 3 weeks ago and I had an amazing time, got engaged, but there was a couple of things I did not like: 1. Sail Pass cards were already at your stateroom before your board so you don't have to go through the process if you already checked in online. this was cool it helped you get to cruising quicker but there were a lot of issues with the information on the cards that would have been fixed before we got on the cruise if we had checked in at the port. wrong birthdays so people didn't get their birthday spa credit, people were booked under the wrong credit card so for instance my uncles charges were being charged on my grandmas credit card. 2. The whole muster station drill was useless. We all met at our muster stations (inside the ship). Mine was in the casino and we couldn't hear anything or see anything. So many people were crammed in there and it was so hot. Not a first good impression to my family where it was their first time cruising. 3. I understand why they changed the way they display cruise portraits (instead of printing and displaying the portraits they have ipads where you can view all your portraits or if you download the app you can see them that way) but just to download a picture, it was $14.99. Also, if you didn't have the app, it was difficult to obtain the photo, couldn't just put your email address in. 4. The night club was changed from the liquid lounge to the limelight lounge. the bar in the limelight lounge was non-existent. There was just a very small area with 1 maybe two bartenders. And if you were in there for karaoke or comedy show, the bar isn't open, the waiters take your order and have to go to an outside bar to get your drink. The process took a little long, probably would be quicker to just go out get your drink and come back but then youll miss the show. Besides this, the cruise was very fun. My family had a blast on their first cruise and are dying to go on another one. I went on the cruise with a boyfriend, came back home with a fiance. The service and food was remarkable as always. The shows were OK, there was one show about old Havana which was amazing but the other show which was a spooky take on popular R&B songs was ehhh. But I do recommend this ship I just hope they update the whole checkin process because that turned out to be a nightmare. :-).

[@michellecollins4974]

How about doing a video on what a rip off Park West art auctions are?

[@candicewilliams3450]

Sold a house for a lady who cruises a lot. Her house was full of art bought on cruises. She wanted to sell most of it, downsizing. You cant give it away.

[@michellecollins4974]

Candice Williams I know, I once sat at an art auction, searching on eBay for the same pieces they were selling. Ran into quite a few, including many still in their shipping tubes from Park West. The buyers could not be bothered to frame it and were hoping to get 10% of what they paid. “Hand embellished “ 🙄😏🧐🤪

[@noturningbackever493]

Michelle Collins: I agree. We watched a young couple pay something like $1,500--for a supposed "first edition" painting. Most of the art auction viewers were shocked; the room fell silent, as all of us realized that this couple just wasted $1,498.00. Our first time seeing this "auction" and hopefully the last. Seemed to us to be "legal" con artists selling junk that you couldn't even give away on "The Price is Right" 30 years ago.

[@bluedressable]

I always believed art auctions were money laundering schemes. Park West is the absolute worst. We went to one of their shows for free Champaign and left laughing as nobody bid over $30 for the ‘priceless first editions’.

[@lamper2]

@@michellecollins4974 we actually won a picture and gave it to goodwill knowing it was worth little

[@dgmcginty]

This report was in 2018. Our experience this year, 2020, is way different. This is in Port Canaveral. Harmony of the Seas. When we arrived we walked up to a person with our set sail documents and pass port. They used a tablet to take pictures of our pass ports and gave us a "checked in" card. We went on board.(This was at 11;30am) The sea pass cards were at our room. (This is not new for RCI ). After the cruise was night and day from a year ago. We left the ship at 8:15am. When we got to the luggage hall, we had a face recognition station. If you were in the system, you were free to gather your luggage and LEAVE! Last year we were in line for 1 hour and 40 minutes, this year, under 5 minutes! Don, this is a game changer!

[@traceytracey1]

Here's my Royal rant: I was on the Independence and not JUST at embarkation, once on board, the staff acts like they really cannot be bothered. I saw a couple of them purposely ignore folks or walk in the opposite direction when passengers looked like they had a question. At the time of my purchase, I was a travel agent so I went in Expresso and booked online but before that, I called and dealt with their agents to book the Anthem when it was brand new. I got so aggravated with their misinformation, I didn't even book. Customer service is inconsistent at best. Next, I promise you Royal tanks all their free food to drive you to the pay options - including room service. The buffet is below subpar in taste and presentation. Third, I completely agree in not wanting to schedule out every moment of my vacation. They have accurate metrics to calculate how many people attend the shows, and can devise a way that optimizes attendance for both first-timers and those returning - they just don't see fit to bother. Fourth, having meetings at the Tides Bar rather than any of the other 20+ bars is a very woeful use of a WOW-factor amenity that doesn't surprise me. Why not pick the bar with the lowest customer count to give it some visibility? DUH!--not rocket science. Your suggestion, Don, about using the theatre is stellar! They use that Promenade for everything and despite the fact it doesn't work the way they envisioned it, they just keep right on going as if nothing's wrong. Wanton disregard to us short folks that have to crane our necks to see over the crowds. Royal made 15 rooms for solo travelers on Oasis ships so as not to be bested by its closest mass-market rival, NCL. So when you say the solo price of an excursion is outrageous, I'm not surprised - Royal is consistently inconsistent and could really care less for solo travelers. I'm so glad for other options - especially Virgin - whom I firmly believe is going to disrupt the industry in a good way. I hope Virgin puts a big enough dent in Royal's profits that it makes significant changes.

[@MrHappyMickey]

I've been on 28 cruises 9 of them were on Royal Caribbean. What I can tell you is that over the years RC has slowly become a "nickle and dime" you to death cruise-line REGARDLESS of the size of the ship. Now granted I have diamond status and book suites, I don't have to worry about embark and debark since there is a priority, no line, no wait, process but will agree that you DO have to put in a lot of time, before you take your cruise, booking shows, specialty dining, excursions etc. online. If you don't do all that ahead of time, you could get locked out of reservations because things are filled up. All they want to do is sell you crap. My last cruise was on the Harmony of the Seas and it was so annoying dodging kiosks or crew members trying to hand you brochures, pamphlets, drink packages, spa treatments etc. The photo package prices are TOTALLY outrageous. Being a professional photographer, I scratch my head at the prices RC charges. Room service charge is just downright annoying a super expensive. RC now has the HIGHEST room service charge on the seas. Some cruise lines are still NOT charging for room service. Now the only thing that I can suggest regarding the soda situation. You can order cases of soda on the RC website and delivered to your room prior to embark for $16 a case which is a helluva lot cheaper than buying single cans or in many cases buying the soda package. You can ask our cabin steward to empty the refridge in the room so you can place the soda in there if you want. But all in all, I have to agree the bigger the ship nowadays, the bigger the inconveniences. For all the nickle and diming that RC does, I have switched over to Norwegian and been booking their Haven Suite rooms where there really is no up-sells, room service and crowds to deal with and you automatically get priority on reservations for specialty restaurants, excursions, etc. all for about the same price as what you pay on RC when you add in their added cost for items.

[@rocketbackhander6280]

I sailed on the Norwegian Getaway in September. I wasn't a fan of the layout of the ship, but Norwegian's brand was great. Like you said, really no up-sells. I really did not like being on a boat with over 5,000 passengers on it, tho.

[@Karolinute1]

Pricess has free room service! I cannot wait!

[@trinad8360]

I sailed on the Allure of the Seas a few years ago, I agree with you on all your top 10 things👌🏽, I haven’t been on an Oasis class ship since, defeats the purpose of a cruise vacation for me.

[@petermckinnon7102]

Yes, sounds more relaxing at work.

[@brendaandjohnroark-rivera7710]

We just returned from our cruise. We left out of Fort Lauderdale, onto Harmony of the Seas. The Embarkment process was very efficient and staff was nice. It's great that RC listens to feedback and improves!! Great info!

[@benyounce8390]

RCL are more interested in having bragging rights to the largest ships. If cruise passengers allow this kind of treatment RCL will always continue with this level of passenger care.

[@bryannelson6139]

I embarked Oasis Jan 2020 Miami cruise terminal A. It’s much improved and there’s no lines once you’re inside. They have many employees standing around with iPads and scanners that quickly scan your ticket and you walk right in. They have a lot of security lines too, it went fast. Now outside the cruise terminal it was utter chaos. Long lines of cars to get in. When we disembarked the taxi line was one and a half hours long. Totally inadequate small area for Uber and Lyft pick ups. Sidewalk was narrow crammed with people waiting with luggage, and porters were yelling at everyone to get out of the way, it was an unpleasant experience.

[@ThePossumCatcher]

What scares me is that Royal Caribbean might retire the smaller ships like the Adventure of the Seas and that class of ships in favor of these big Oasis Class ships leaving that your only option for Caribbean Cruises. So many of these issues look to be here to stay. :(

[@timwolfers7880]

There are several better options besides RCL. They aren't the only game in town, and they aren't that good either. 3 times on RCL, never again!

[@ThePossumCatcher]

I found Carnival to be highly underrated myself and I already got 14 VFIP points from my 14 day Panama Canal cruise I just finished a week ago on the Carnival Freedom. So I may just stick with Carnival anyways because they have more home ports making it easier to sail with them and it’s easier to build loyalty points because I got a good head start. But that could be a problem, too. The Vista and the Breeze and those class of ships also hold a lot of passengers and I’m concerned Carnival might scrap ships like the Elation soon and send all their Conquest Class to Spain for refits to be made larger and hold more passengers so it might not let me get out of the Embarkation problems Don had with that Royal Caribbean sailing. :(

[@hypersonic929]

Tried a 2,000 passenger cruise with Celebrity two years ago and enjoyed it very much. Then tried Viking Ocean a year ago (with 930 passengers) and loved it. Signed up for another Viking Ocean cruise for 2019. Can't imagine floating around with 6,000 strangers, many with kids in tow, while getting "encouraged" to buy stuff I don't want, pay extra for specialty restaurants, wi-fi, laundry, etc., all included with Viking.

[@timberwolfpowler8747]

These ships have that institutionalized feel about it like heading the Sheeple. No thanks.

[@user-gu6vf3je1d]

Timberwolf Powler True. True.

[@davidyouse7133]

Cruising just isn't what it was 20 years ago. I've sailed exclusively on Royal Caribbean on all sized ships from the Majesty up to the Allure. Overall the negatives increase in proportion to the size of the ship. However, you see your complaints are from a slightly different perspective than I might. If you go into it just expecting a relaxing week getting away from your home life you'll get that. If you go into it seeing it as a job then you may be disappointed. As to your points: #1. Why arrive early as stand in lines with 1000 other people. Get there 1 hour before departure and 90% of the passengers have already been processed. If there's still a long line just sit and relax until the line becomes manageable. The ship won't leave without you whether you're the first on or the last on. #2. Pre booking is a necessity because of the number of people wanting to do things and the availability of space for them to do it. Can you imagine 1000 people showing up for dinner or a show at one time and expecting to get satisfactory service? #3. Selling on board? it's all about added profit for the line. It could be eliminated at the expense of raising cruise prices. At least you have the option of not buying anything. What do you need anyway that you didn't bring with you? A gold chain? A $10 watch? Another T-shirt? #4. A floating bar - just a gimmick. There are plenty of other places on board for you to get a drink that you can go to and leave anytime you want. Why go to one where you have to schedule it and then not being able to leave until it finishes its ride? #5. The parade is for first timers. Once you've seen it there's nothing more to see. Skip it; you won't lose anything. #6. Line cutters exist everywhere and if the staff can't/won't control it then there's nothing to be done about it other than being early in line and making sure nobody cuts in front of you yourself. #7. You might want to get to know the staff, I don't so I can't comment. #8. Movies in the rooms used to be free on RCCL but not anymore. They do have a tiny movie theater which is free and I've never found to be crowded. The outdoor movies are a farce as it's hard to get a sight line to view it and it's nearly impossible to hear anything. #9, Excursion prices through the cruise line are out of sight of reality. It's best to book an independent tour/activity as the prices can often be negotiated. Just make sure of the return time so you're back on board before the ship leaves. #10 $10 for a delivered meal doesn't seem outrageous. You pay nearly that for on shore food delivery to your home in addition to the cost of the food.

[@CharlestonVic]

Thanks for reinforcing my pinkie swear vow to NEVER go on one of these cruises!

[@Colombia20102018]

Don, you are not considering the transportation and storage costs of the soda. Plus the cost to keep it refrigerated if you want it cold. One dollar per can is not profitable for something in the middle of the ocean. I’ll say 2.50 would be a good price.

[@mckenna8663]

I was waiting for you to mention this, and you never did so I'll mention it here.The Oasis class ships have a cut out in the middle of the ship so that you can have outside balcony rooms and inside balcony rooms. The problem with that design is that the ship is hot. It's hard to cool off a ship that has it inside core that's being heated by the Caribbean sun. So you go into your room for some air conditioning, but if you want to open your sliding glass door so that you can have a little air conditioning and hear the sound of the waves, your room air conditioning turns off... because the door is open. Thus... If you want your balcony door open... Your room heats up like the hot ship you are trying to escape. Just not comfortable!!

[@matthewhoffman9788]

Have to agree with all of your annoyances that you experienced on the Allure. Amazing a single can of soda is so outrageously priced at $5 a can when its brought by room service. The $7.95 room service charge wouldn't be so bad a deal if as you said it were a DAILY fee and not a per usage fee. I remember when ALL room service was free of charge and not just the continental breakfast(NCL). I've been a solo cruiser many times and have NEVER experienced the the price doubling of the shore excursions. Is that unique to Royal Caribbean? Been a couple years since I have cruised with them, but I was never double charged as a solo guest on any of the shore excursions I did with them. Seems quite odd that they would do that since they have cabins dedicated to solo cruisers. Sometimes an idea that sounds and looks good in the office doesn't transition as smoothly when implemented on board ship. As always, a very informative and entertaining video! Continued good health and safe travels.

[@susanr1306]

Double charge for excursions must be their error.