Hot Issues Dividing Cruisers RIGHT NOW!

On my last cruise, a Windstar Fjords cruise, I posted clips on Instagram of the best attended event of my entire cruise. It immediately ignited a fiery, lively, and divided debate about if the event was a good idea or not.
It got me thinking about other things that I talk about on social media or in my videos, that spark heated debates and where cruisers fall into “for” or “against” camps, with few on the fence. So, let's find out where you stand on these right now as I suspect that, like me, your stand is shifting as we face a new world of cruising.
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00:00 Start
00:40 Showing Their Talents?
01:44 Bedtime Surprises?
02:54 Code Enforcement?
05:09 Select Few Only?
07:17 In-Person or Not?

[@jvandermoer1076]

As an onboard crew member for 15 years, I can tell you that crew members all volunteer to do crew shows and are given cash for performing. I've done it myself several times. Sometimes there are so many people wanting to perform they have to have tryouts. Granted, rehearsals are in your spare time, but we have fun. Trust me, nobody is being forced.

[@Paradise-on-Earth]

I love hearing this! Thank you!

[@pw-sz6ds]

Thank you for the information. I’m tired of people always speculating that the crew members are poor, under paid, over worked, mistreated, and miserable. Or that they have no choice but to sacrifice more of their time to perform extra tasks. Do they work hard? Yes! But it should stop there.

[@marshacallahan3348]

This is good to know. Thanks for sharing.

[@matthewdunphy8524]

I'm glad it isn't forced labor but that doesn't change the fact it is a way for cruise lines to cut costs. They aren't paying the crew talent the same as they would a professional entertainer.

[@jstrahan2]

:@@matthewdunphy8524 : What is wrong with cutting costs? If you were a business owner, you would think differently.

[@roberttodd8889]

If a cruise line says that there is a dress code, then they should enforce it. If you tell me there is a dress code, I'm going to expect certain things from my fellow diners. If you're not going to enforce it, then don't tell me that you have a code. I'll then know what to expect.

[@kevwwong]

Pretty much this. I don't much care whether there's a dress code or not - I just want to be able to pack accordingly.

[@MysticDonBlair]

Maybe they should offer suit rentals. Dress codes should be enforced.

[@andyrose5576]

I agree, if a cruise line says they have a dress code then enforce it otherwise don’t have one.

[@rosemarysmith5967]

​@MysticDonBlair it's due to 1990s ship dress code that my Dad and I wore pur first tuxedos at the same time after our luggage was left behind. I look smashing in black and white and have been working on my own version but with skirt as I now love a good skirt.

[@drewchristy]

If they have a dress code, they should enforce it. That being said, they should just allow people to relax while they are on vacation and forget about the old school dress codes.

[@nealeTH]

We personally don’t like strict formal dressing, so we would not choose a cruise line that has formal dress code. When a dress code is not enforced by the cruise line it really spoils it for people who want that experience and creates a friction and uncomfortable mismatch across the whole ship. I like that different cruise lines have different styles and approaches so people can choose the ones that fit what makes them happy. We personally prefer the looser, more casual approach but with some mild suggestion in the evening main dining rooms to encourage people to wear ‘going out’ clothes which means different things to different people but general everyone wears their nicer top, or a shirt, or nicer polo, or black jeans instead if faded ones. Our last cruise was with Royal Caribbean and we enjoyed the balance on that ship.

[@hesterthistlebottom8422]

Requiring passengers to adhere to the dress code is very important to me. If you don't want to respect the dress code, don't cruise on lines that require it! People who show up at an elegant event dressed inappropriately ruin it for those of us who chose Cunard precisely because we wanted to experience an evening of grace and elegance -- something that is rare and hard to find these days.

[@CosmicCleric]

"If you don't want to respect the dress code, don't cruise on lines that require it!" And if in every other way that cruise line fits exactly what you are looking for (amongst limited choices for venue type), except for the hardcore dress code? Just 'sucks to be you' and you continue gatekeeping others away from your line of choice?

[@SilverOwls]

100% agreed! It's part of the experience.

[@CosmicCleric]

@@SilverOwls Its not the whole of the experience though, just a small part of it.

[@pappabear4977]

@@CosmicCleric. If someone has a problem with dress code and the line requires it then it makes me wonder why they would like the line otherwise.

[@CosmicCleric]

@@pappabear4977 for every other thing that it offers, food, shows, events, ship design, ports of call, etc.

[@cher4705]

One funny experience with the towels was as follows. My husband and I were at a hotel that had two queen sized beds. It was in Mexico and there was no air conditioning so he and I each took one of the beds. The next morning we found a towel animal only on one of the beds. This continued for three days. On the fourth day, we found an enormous towel heart, flower petals all over the bed and the other bed unmade with no sheets, pillows, or blankets! I laughed myself silly! Apparently, romance must continue regardless of the air conditioning status. 😊

[@redhatbear1135]

Love it!

[@susantownsend8397]

Dress code: as a teacher (retired) I believe strongly that you should never have a rule you don’t intend to enforce.

[@trevsdog]

unless it will cost you millions in lost revenue LOL

[@fuzzylon]

If the in-person muster drill was chaotic imagine what it would have been like on a ship that was actually in trouble and passengers really did have to abandon ship ! If an emergency were to arise it would be some reassurance to the passengers that they had actually been through a physical drill.

[@juniperus98]

If there is a dress code, it needs to be enforced. I would sail with Cunard and the like because that is part of the experience. If people don’t want to be bothered with a strict dress code, they should select a cruise line that caters accordingly.

[@barryhaley7430]

I fully support Cunard enforcing the formal dress code. It’s especially what I want when doing a transatlantic. I want the 1930z vibe!

[@laratheplanespotter]

Me too. I’m old fashioned. I LOVE dressing up for dinner. If it wasn’t for bad women’s rights, I’d shoot back to the golden age of ocean travel! (Especially the old steam liners!)

[@jadedavis822]

@@laratheplanespotter only women’s right hmm?

[@laratheplanespotter]

@@jadedavis822 only an example

[@billcook4768]

As long as you aren’t longing for that 1912-vibe :)

[@laratheplanespotter]

@@billcook4768 my great great grandfather died on that ship so no!

[@sinestesiagaming]

The issue I have with Cunard now is the throwing out of the traditional formal/informal nights, and the move to the "gala" nights, and the way they have chosen to word the descriptions which can leave passengers believing that they do not have to dress up for dinner at all. If there's a dress code, it should be enforced.

[@vgrhbg]

Emergency Preparedness person here. People learn through repetition. I know people would see it as a pain, but it would be ideal if you had to swipe your card at your muster station every day. You would come to learn the way there from different parts of the ship, which is good because emergencies don’t happen only when you’re in your cabin, and it builds that “muscle memory” that helps you reposed quickly and accurately in an emergency. Re Disney: I personally think it’s good for the children to have the full muster experience. Re dress code: I think it is respectful of your fellow passengers and the line to follow the code, even if it isn’t your personal preference. You’re part of a larger group and a culture when you take a cruise.

[@evelynhillier2877]

Interesting take on the muster; of course an emergency may occur when one is anywhere on the ship. But one must go back to the staterooms to collect the lifejackets, in any case...

[@jackieknits61]

Speaking as someone who grew up sailing, we had regular emergency drills on a surprise basis. We all had a role to play and were taught it carefully. Obviously, this won't fly on a huge ship, but building in extra info and training throughout the cruise is a great idea. Maybe both electronic muster and in person.

[@crispy5000]

excellent idea. Cruisers will be grateful for repitition and muscle memory if anything goes wrong and they need to abandon ship.

[@portaltwo]

YES, YES,YES! If there is a dress code, enforce it! There are actually few things that get me as wound up as this one. We most often cruise with Oceania. It's a terrific line, which advertises itself as "country club casual". But by the looks of at least some passengers, they think this translates as "mini-putt raggedy".

[@chelseahasflowers]

I enjoy dressing up and seeing others dressed up as well. It adds to the fun and elegance that we don't always get in our everyday lives. If there is a dress code, it needs to be enforced.

[@odkbull]

A few thoughts as a former crew member. 1) Most crew volunteer for the show and they love doing it. Often it is done for only the crew and not the guests. So, I wouldn't fret too much regarding this. 2) We now sail Yacht Club with MSC. And we LOVE it (or Aurea.) We love being able to get away to private areas away from the rest of the guests. It does feel like the Queens & Princess Grills of old. (Now if only our fellow guests would dress up accordingly.) 3) I DO wish and think all guests should dress appropriately for dinner in the evenings. On land, we would never go to a nice restaurant for a sit down dinner without dressing up a bit, so why would we not take it up a notch on board? We believe that all people hold certain social obligations to each other and that should include dressing appropriately in the evenings on board. Cheers!

[@lokicooper4690]

Interesting about the talent show. I read someone else (also a crew member) comment on another video that they were forced to do them whether they liked it or not. No clue what cruise line as the commenter did not say.

[@SamOrthodoxy]

My question regarding crew talent shows would then be, if crew don't volunteer to do an act, do they get looked down upon? I have worked in a similar environment where management would consider it in your appraisal, so if you wanted to do well, you really had no choice.

[@kathryncashner3294]

My friend insists that if you don't like cruising, you haven't found the right line for you. I tend to agree. If you don't want to deal with kids in the dining room, sail on an adult only cruise. Don't want a dress code? Sail on a line that doesn't have one. I don't like the "ship within a ship" concept, so I won't sail on a cruise that pushes this concept. I don't have a problem with a small lounge for suite guests, but when it becomes separate restaurants, entertainment, etc...nope. There are other lines out there. E-muster any day! Even with the in person musters, crew doesn't know who or what is required. For instance, on two different B2Bs on Princess, we ASKED at Guest Services whether we had to attend the second muster, and in each case were told yes. So we dutifully went to our muster station, only to be told we didn't need to be there and were immediately released. Make up your minds, people. Towel animals were really cute when the kids were young....not needed for this 60 something.

[@rheeeliker4513]

I was going to comment, but you hit all the points I wanted to make. Especially the one about dress code - I don't want gala nights, and but I also don't want shorts and bathrobes in the MDR, so I pick a line in the middle of that particular pack. And for the ship-within-a ship, free market forces will take care of that - if cruisers don't want a large part of ship taken away for "first class", they'll pick another line.

[@mike_maple]

Quite agree on the Ship within a ship concept, suites are fine, but not good when large areas of the ship are not available to you. Not such an issue when ship not at full capacity as I found on MSC Virtuosa in March, but about to cruise on NCL Epic in high season, and I've already heard very negative reviews. What really takes the mick however is the queue jumping - folks shepherded past you whilst waiting to get off, into the theatre etc. I always wanted to go on the QE2 when I was a youth, later I learned about the class system Cunard runs and it really turned me off. Yet now this is the way it's going. If you want a more exclusive, more serviced cruise, then choose a more premium line. It makes me wonder if one of the reasons people use this ship within a ship concept is secretly to feel superior - raised above the masses.

[@rutroe88]

I like the idea of ship within a ship, I like that if you pay a little more you can get to see a show . I've only been on 4 cruises and seen 1 show, never seen a comedy show. People are aggressive when it comes to seating, no thanks! I like dressing up but don't because most folks don't, seems a little foolish to be the only ones dressing up. But you should have a choice. We're like you Gary, we enjoy enrichment cruises and don't need roller coasters, we're definitely more laid-back cruisers. Love your content

[@paulhaley5344]

You listed many correct & valid points. And I completely agree with your assessment. Perhaps, when asked staff at Guest Services about muster drill, the staff recognized, evaluating & decided that some passengers need & require, extra attention & double training at muster stations. Perhaps, Guest Relations did this for you, as a safety measure.

[@kathryncashner3294]

@@paulhaley5344 We actually called them and asked....We're at 49 cruises now, so sort of know that drill. I don't mind going to the muster drill if that is the rule. What I don't understand is arriving and being told that we don't need to stay. Not the end of the world, and if it makes them feel better, that's fine.

[@davidalvarez1560]

Windstar greek isles cruise 2022. My luggage was lost in Athens. I boarded with minimal clothes in my carry on. I was declined seating at the main dining room the first night because I only had shorts (but was allowed to dine al fresco in their "specialty" restaurant up top). Bought a pair of slacks at the next port. As for the crew talent show. Yes, it made me feel a little uncomfortable as well... but it was an absolute riot... especially the "synchronized swimming"

[@JacobHolt106]

I am in the camp that if there is a dress code it should be enforced. I am fine with lines not having one (you know that when booking), but I feel it is disingenuous to say you have one when in reality a line does not have one. I personally think it is better not to have the towel animals. First, the crew is already overworked and while you can use them as towels, most people will not use them

[@dmoli7737]

Agreed on the dress code, either have one and enforce it, or don't have one. I don't care either way, I will book my travel accordingly.

[@marshacallahan3348]

I believe if there is a stated dress code on formal night that it should be enforced. For other nights, I think leniency is acceptable. As for the specialty areas of the ship, I do feel like they are bringing back the class system. It's as if they are saying to the majority of the cruisers that they aren't worthy since they don't have huge vacation budgets. When I started cruising many, many years ago, the concept was that once you paid your fare, everyone was treated the same, regardless of their stateroom level. Those days are long gone.

[@rosemarysmith5967]

​@@marshacallahan3348they weren't necessarly ever gone, simply not as obvious. The owners suit (or whatever one would call the most expensive suit) got more then my family with the inside cabin. There were always areas of the ship that could be closed for private events. These are all versions of it. I'd say the biggest difference is we now know where those parts of the ship are. My mum tells of simply the 'do not enter' door that were for first class passengers, as they could slum it if they chose, but you had to know which magic door took you back. Wasn't really slumming, she had a fabulous trip to Australia and as a former staff member on a ship, she enjoyed the more relaxed crew.

[@leedioso558]

I favor ship-within-a-ship, at least on the megas. Last spring, I took my Mom and stepfather, both over 85, on their first cruise. My favorite line is HAL, which tells you a little about my preferences. But because I wanted to to simplify their travel, I restricted our choices to only the ships sailing out of Port Canaveral or Tampa, a short drive from their central Florida home. I ended up choosing the NCL Escape (my first-ever megaship) and, to give my parents a treat, booked rooms in the Haven. With the experience now behind us, I know that my parents' enjoyment of the cruise - and, therefore, mine and my wife's - was decisively improved by the exclusivity of the Haven. Because of my folks' physical limitations, waiting in lines, being unable to find seating, and dealing with congestion at places like the pool or hot tub would have been sharply more negative than such things are for nimbler people. So I feel that the Haven was essential for our family in this instance and am pleased that the option is available. The Escape cruise confirmed my preference for smaller ships like HAL's. While I may choose again to cruise on a mega someday, I'll likely take advantage of whatever ship-within-a-ship product they offer, with or without my parents.

[@co7580]

I book Cunard for the glamour and the dress code amongst other reasons. If people dislike dressing up in their vacations I can fully comprehend this - but they should choose a line suiting their tastes. Cunard should be implementing their own rules, so that those paying a not insubstantial amount of money to have this kind of experience actually get the experience Cunard sais it delivers. As for entertainment by the waiters etc.: they are very hard working as it is. No need for them to have the entertainment dumped on them as well. It should be on a voluntary basis only. Towel animals can be fun, and the towels can actually be used. So should be voluntary as well. I'm with the group prefering the traditional in person muster drills. My last cruise ( not Cunard) had several days during which new guests boarded and the calls for people to please finish the drill kept going forever on these days. With more and more space reserved for a ship within a ship, no wonder public spaces are crammed...

[@MsTupperwarequeen]

Just back from our first cruise, and I dressed up very fancy for 2 of the 3 formal nights, but still smart for the other. There was a huge variety from equally fancy to extremely casual. It didn't make one dot of difference to me, but I did see a few people sneering/disparaging to those who weren't dressed up. I did worry that I'd feel self conscious being so fancy, but the lovely comments from fellow cruisers and crew soon set my mind at rest on that score!

[@MistressDragonFlame]

I am greatly disappointed they're not enforcing the dress codes. Why have them at all? It also bothers me in land based restaurants, when they don't enforce dress codes. There are plenty of other places to be casual dressed, fancy evenings are just that--fancy!

[@pamelafrancis8131]

Gary, love how polarizing some of these issues are. Like many people who commented below, I really think the dress code should be enforced. I love the formal experience on Cunard and wish they were firmer with it. If you can't be bothered to make an effort, eat at the buffet. Additionally, if you can afford the Retreat, Haven etc. absolutely go for it. I don't understand why people who book cheap fares on mega ships (your example of MSC) complain. You get what you pay for! Keep the videos coming!

[@veronicanolastname2467]

Please no to full in-person muster. On my last HAL cruise, we were surprised one day with a towel animal. It was a great surprise. Then there was the sea day morning when we woke up to our room steward telling us to hurry to the main pool for a surprise. He was so excited! What we found was towel animals along the side of the pool and on the bar other flat surfaces and larger towel "person" dress like an officer complete with pants and jacket AND an underwater scene with colorful sea creatures made from the orange, blue, and green pool towels on the deck in front of the pool. That was a real treat on the way to breakfast in the Lido. Generally, I don't care about ship within a ship luxury. HOWEVER, on the MSC Seascape, the is NO place for non-Yacht Club passengers to stand or sit on the bow at any deck. That's always been part of the thrill of cruising for me. So I was really disappointed. Now before I book a cruise I look to see if the deck plan includes bow space for us regular folk. Holland American Rotterdam - check. Viking Long Ship river cruising - check.

[@user-yd8wp8rz2b]

The crew performance is voluntary and a chance to showcase their talents or culture. A positive diversion and creative outlet for the staff from mundane tasks. Aside from showing off their talents, it helps cruisers see the fun side of their hardworking waiter, bartender, cook etc. - Dress codes should be enforced. It's one of the reasons why people choose certain ships or cruises. If you don't want to dress up, then choose your cruise line accordingly. Or go to the buffet section. Or order room service and eat in your pajamas. The policies and expectations are laid out on brochures and websites and the cruisers should have known about them. To ignore them is disrespectful to everyone, - to the crew who put tremendous effort to create a memorable experience for their customers, and to fellow passengers. - Special touches (like cute, shaped towels) are all part of the crews' attempt to show appreciation and to make the passenger feel special. Who wouldn't smile finding one waiting for you? Bottom line - one can never please all people. There will always be those who only think of themselves and/or find something wrong about anything and everything.

[@billd7120]

I don't know if people know this, but towel animals can be used as towels and Gala nights exist to sell photos.

[@susanlester1]

😂😂😂

[@andrewplant8328]

I love the Gala nights on Cunard, but I have never ever paid for an official photo and never will 🤣

[@dmoli7737]

Ditto, love the Gala nights, and never paid for one of the photos because the cost is insane.@@andrewplant8328

[@Erin-Thor]

I have seen a few towel animals that were done so cool I hated to use them. And one cruise, not sure how but the photographer had a gift. He would just walk around, smiling, chit chat, take an occasional picture… and post them for purchase on the wall. He captured the best in people, the perfect laugh, smile, dressed to the nines and looking fabulous and I found myself studying his timing. He would keep his camera up, nonchalantly chatting, waiting for a giggle, smile, a loving look, and snap. Every single day I watched as new, amazing photos graced the walls, and even the photos he took while on tours were flawless. My point… keep an open mind. Sometimes a photographers photo is worth its weight in gold.

[@littleglimmer2325]

Gala nights exist to give passengers a faux experience of days long gone by and most participants enjoy them as simply fun. Yes, indeed, photographers work feverishly trying to get as many people as possible snapped - at outrageous prices. But the photographers are franchised, not cruise line staff.

[@christianetscharf3861]

I totally agree that if there is a dress code, people should follow it. I always respect it, even if others don't. 😊

[@roythousand13]

Do you mean I can't eat at the main dining area wearing just a swim trunks and a tank top?🤔

[@katherinevanleuven2192]

I love dressing for dinner. HAL has gone down hill on this. The E-muster is awesome. I hated being crammed on the deck in the heat. Standing around and waiting for the stragglers.

[@RosemullionView]

Real muster is important, especially for first time cruisers. I feel it should be delivered physically and for e-version to be advised for subsequent in-cabin watching. Is a duty of care issue for the cruise company as they should be required to be assured everyone has received and understood safety advice. Thanks for the video.

[@markstarmer3677]

We traveled with Cunard a number of times. Indeed only finishing one on Sunday (6th) The dress standards sadly have definitely dropped. Formal evenings in the Britannia should be just that. Tuxedos and smart ballgown type dresses. A bit of escapism. Informal evenings - jacket, trousers, and collared shirt. Tie optional. It’s not that there isn’t any other option.The Lido serves up superb food, with more variety and options. If you want a formal evening with people on the next table in polo shirts, jeans, and drinking beer from the bottle, then book Celebrity. We did once, never again. Just to add salt into the wounds, it was the most expensive cruise we have done, with poor food and service.

[@crispy5000]

I hate formal dressing but for those people who go on cruise lines with dress codes and do enjoy it, it should be enforced as I imagine they like the dressing up

[@laurievm7609]

My dream cruise is going on Cunard Transatlantic. I was disappointed that they were not enforcing the dress code as much. If they keep lowering the bar, pretty soon they will be just another cruise liner. Why do people book with Cunard when they know what the dress code is. If they don't want to participate in it, there are other options. I personally want to experience the grand of it all. As far as turning towels into animals go, maybe just do this when they know that kids are sharing a cabin. Years ago my kids and I went on the Disney cruise and my kids loved it. I'm not going to give a poor rating just because my towel didn't become an elephant. Crew talent night should be on a volunteer bases only with the crew.

[@Erin-Thor]

I specifically book cruises without dress codes. LOL! I am on vacation, dressing up in a tux is fun for a special event, but it’s work looking good dammit! 🤣

[@louisat470]

I guess with Cunard its sort of like going on the orient express?

[@TheOnlyLilithcat]

@@louisat470 Last year, I did a transatlantic crossing on the QM2, and then took the Orient Express from London to Venice. They were both formal, and that's what I wanted, but the OE a bit more so than the QM2. I think the gorgeous cabins and dining cars (think inlaid wood, Lalique glass, etc.) on the OE created a dressier ambience. It was a fantastic trip altogether, and I never felt more spoiled in my entire life.

[@louisat470]

@@TheOnlyLilithcat What an amazing trip! I'd love to do that one day, we had a lot of sea days when I went to the arctic circle, and the ship was quite art deco themed, and I loved having no internet and spending the days reading and watching films- proper relaxation with no distractions!

[@krkope8277]

Thanks Gary, this one gave me a chuckle. Only one you raised I feel strongly about is muster. I am definitely pro in-person muster. Most folks aren't salty dogs like you, and anything that helps cut down on the number of clueless people in a blind panic during an emergency is fine by me.

[@chazcov08]

Do you honestly think that those clueless people are going to act in any other way even if they had attended the in-person? You still have to show up at your station when doing the virtual version, so I'm not sure what the benefit really is.

[@yvonnetomenga5726]

@@chazcov08 • You do realize that people have been trampled to death or severely injured entering concerts or religious events or running from fires, terrorists, etc.? In-person musters force you to deal with crowd size, even if it's not a full-on experience because people aren't panicking. Ask any commuter by mass transit whether they prefer to travel during rush hour or non-rush hour. I think they'll all pick the less crowded times. And as I've now heard military analysts say about the war in Ukraine, "Quantity is its own quality" referring to the fact that Russia has more soldiers and munitions than Ukraine. So even if Russians are less well trained and their equipment is less accurate, they are still formidable just due to the shear quantity. In-person musters will not keep everyone from panicking but they will keep some people from panicking, which is a good thing in an emergency.

[@chazcov08]

@@yvonnetomenga5726 Nice non sequitur. The people will STILL have to report to their muster station to get their phones scanned, so they know where it is. If they've watched the videos that contain the same information given in the in-person muster, they should be well equipped.

[@yvonnetomenga5726]

@@chazcov08 • You're ignoring crowd size. But I've already spent more time on what is obviously a contentious issue. If you think going to a muster station to have your phone scanned is the same as going to your muster station in a crowd, nothing I say will convince you differently. And why should it? You have your opinion, I have mine. Bye!

[@billcook4768]

The question is whether standing on a crowded deck in the hot waiting for stragglers does anything to reduce the number of clueless people. I think no.

[@philipnawrocki8278]

Gary - I love your content and videos! Here's some items I think you could add to your list and get feedback on. Thanks! 1. Technology-Using the line's "App" in order to schedule everything, no daily program or newspaper, etc. The whole experience feeling more isolated and less spontaneous by having to pre-register and plan every detail out. 2. Specialty Dining options vs more all-inclusive dining while on board 3. WiFi-Specifically the cost vs should be included especially in 2023; and how well it should work vs the cost / value of it. What are realistic WiFi expectations? What is the reality of how the Cruise Lines deliver on WiFi? 4. Shore Excursions-Who does the best / worst? Cost vs. value? Are there some who have in-house guides and exclusive tours or do they all subcontract out?

[@VegasSongPub]

I prefer enforced dress code. It sets a mood. If you prefer casual, then book a cruise on a ship that has no fees codes.

[@VegasSongPub]

Not fee codes, dress codes. 😮

[@jocoul7476]

Travelling as my blind, disabled mother's carer, we find the "in person" musters are a hazardous, time consuming, overcrowded nightmare! Love the E-muster. It's as safe and particularly for us it saves a huge amount of time spent waiting endlessly for overcrowded lifts.

[@chrisbates8064]

A confession. We're about to go on our first cruise on September with P&O Australia on the Pacific Adventure. P&O offer the Byron Beach Club to suite and some mini suite guests. This is a cruise card entry area at top, front of the ship with its own shade, bar, pool and hot tubs. As P&O Australia is a family oriented and generally very affordable cruise option, we purposely booked a qualifying mini suite. This will hopefully enable a quieter area to actually relax without too many children and party atmosphere adults. On this ship, I can only see benefits. Families still get a value cruise with access to multiple pools, slides etc... and those guests who would like a calmer, but still good value option can pay a little more to get into the Byron Beach club.

[@Erin-Thor]

I’ve found it takes a a week or two to forget about work and what’s going on at home. After my first long cruise, I fell in love with them. Weekend cruises are great, but two-three or four weeks is heaven. 😊

[@davis9971]

I like things that are “special” on a vacation, like formal night. Not everything in life has to be distilled down to its most basic informal level. If you don’t want to participate I respect that, but choose a cruise or alternative dining that doesn’t include it rather than ruining it for those that do enjoy it by complaining or just being a scofflaw.

[@maurinet2291]

I'm just wondering if for the crew issues, being the towel animals and the show, if anyone has asked the crew how they feel about it. In a kind of rote repetitive job like being a room steward, it might break up the monotony to do something different and a little creative. But I can also see where that would be a burden for some, or the cruise line taking advantage with unpaid labor. In the case of the show, the fair thing to do would be to offer a bonus to those who participate, like teachers can make extra money as a coach because it's more work and eats into their free time.

[@lokicooper4690]

I’d love to know their true feelings on this as well, however, I feel they will say how much they love it, even if they hate it, for fear of any negative response getting back to their employers. I really like your idea of a bonus for doing it. Doubt the cruise line would go along with having to fork out more of their profits though (sorry, I’m being very cynical here).

[@DavidSmith-vq1cr]

Yes what do the crew think. I could not careless about social media know it alls.

[@Stephanie-vx4zi]

The TOWELANIMALS a're already made up. Stewards keep them and use again , as long as they were not taken apart by the guest. They'll reuse. This us why there was less post pandemic. Stewards are wise and no how to make tips

[@rosemarysmith5967]

I saw the crew talent show back on a cruise in the 1990s, and have to do them for some events a volunteer group I'm part of, and then it's more voluntold not volunteer. One could compair it to a Karioke night on a ship, we are basically paying to entertain others. Based on the crew I have met, and their bosses, if it didn't work, they wouldn't do it, both in crew involvement and passenger enjoyment.

[@anitahornbrook745]

Part of the fun of cruising for me is the chance to wear dresses I wouldn’t normally wear. If the dress code is ignored I would feel a bit out of place and awkward

[@Jimmy-Mc]

1. I like the crew talent shows. I prefer the bigger Broadway shows, but if you're on a small ship then they are pretty fun substitutes. 2. If you're going to have a dress code, enforce it. If you as a passenger don't like the dress code, eat or cruise somewhere else. 3. Towel animals are fun! I don't think the few seconds it takes to make one are what make or break the crew's work schedule. 4. Not a fan of the big in-person muster drill. NCL had everyone stop by their muster stations before they could even access the rest of the ship during boarding, and this worked very well. 5. I don't mind the exclusive concierge areas. They annoy me far less than go kart tracks, laser tag, and other activities that you have to pay for which take up deck space.

[@kencarruthers6714]

You’ve opened up a good challenge Gary. My feeling is that dress codes need to be enforced - maybe the solution is to close formal dining areas and smart bars to those who aren’t happy to dress & leave the buffet open to all. The other argument is people know when they are booking how many formal dress nights are taking place and if they aren’t happy they can easily change to a different line. As to crew shows, all the crew I’ve spoken with privately seem to enjoy doing these but it’d be nice if they could be rewarded too for their time and effort. I’m not bothered either way about how towels are presented. Musters are better now that they don’t cause such mayhem.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Cunard always has a Buffet open on formal night open to people who do not want to dress formal. . Also you can also stay in your cabin and order in.

[@allyhawkes760]

Not every one going on a cruise leaves from their home country or city. We went on a cruise as a last part of a 3 month trip, taking a tuxedo and evening dresses for one or two nights was a big deal when we had limited luggage space.

[@barryhaley7430]

I understand. We ended an 8 week tour of Europe with a QM 2 from Southampton to NY. I wasn’t going to lug a tux around for 8 weeks so I invented a Pseudo Tux. A solid light grey sport coat with nicely stitched collar. A black pair of “dress” dockers which I actually flew in, a frilly white shirt with studs, a black bow tie and a cummerbund. Voila! A Pseudo Tux. The cummerbund and studs didn’t take much room

[@karichucko6243]

If the cruise lines have a dress code then it should be enforced; otherwise don’t bother posting it. Absolutely love the e-muster! More convenient and frankly, more to the point than in person musters tend to be.

[@anne-marievr5710]

I did not get a good vibe on Celebrity because of the “class” system. A group we played trivia with always talked about their special restaurant and such. I am a very basic, inside cabin wth no packages cruiser so I can go to all these wonderful parts of the world. The day HAL had towel animals all over the pool deck i though it just made everyone smile which was good when you had many consecutive sea days. Back in February our room steward knew we were doing a stingray encounter and he made that towel animal. It really made me happy. I always leave extra cash for my room steward plus I bring packaged candies. ON that cruise I gave him chocolate covered macadamia nuts from our port in Hilo. We eat in the buffet, especially on Princess so the dress code does not affect me. We still dress nicely in the evening.

[@dmoli7737]

Sorry, this is gonna be somewhat of a rant, but the dress code things gets me. Just finished up a Cunard cruise in Alaska; this was our 3rd cruise on Cunard, and first since COVID. I noticed the lax enforcement of the dress code right away. My wife and I specifically chose Cunard when we started cruising for the atmosphere and the "traditional cruising feel" (for lack of a better way to say it). We love how the ship transforms after 6pm whether its a "Smart Attire" night, or Gala; it's magical, and really makes us feel like we are cruising in a bygone era. On this last cruise though, sadly, the magic just wasn't there. Standing in a full tux, next to someone in sweat pants and a a t-shirt just kills it. Oddly though, it seems that it was a combination of two (or three) things, the lax enforcement for starters, also, since our last cruise it would seem that Cunard lowered their "Smart Attire" standard. It's been some time, but I could have sworn a minimum of a sport coat was the requirement for men on normal nights; but on this last cruise it was only a collard shirt. Lastly, I recall that if you chose not to dress up you could still be in the Lido Buffet, the Gym, and the pool area after 6pm. However, this last time they allowed passengers in "casual dress" into the casino, the pub, and other locations which were previously off limits unless dressed appropriately. It should be noted that these last two weren't lax enforcement, but collard shirt and access to those aforementioned areas was allowed in writing. All things said, if this is the direction Cunard wants to take from a business perspective, that would be unfortunate, but its their call; but I agree with another commenter when they said, they (Cunard) will become "just another cruise line"; and unfortunately, they will lose our business as we seek out that "Cunard magic" on a different cruise line.

[@megansmith3535]

Agree, can it even be called a 'code' if it isn't enforced? It's either everyone agrees to it when booking the cruise, or everyone doesn't - having some people dressed very smartly and others in sweat pants makes a mockery of the occasion. Some people may have hired or purchased special clothing too, not realising that it wasn't actually necessary.

[@beebee5020]

Generation X, Y, Z, “Can’t make me!”.

[@soonkonghan5525]

As Mariner, to me in-person muster drill is a must cos we wanted everybody to "familiarize" with their own & designated Muster station. In case of any emergency, the passengers know where are heading to. Otherwise it will be a chaos onboard and the crews are not able to control. E-muster drill is simply not efficient at all. Safety is always our priority while onboard.

[@jrp1144]

We've taken nine Holland America cruises, including five transatlantic. I like HAL, among other things, because when I board, everyone gets out of my way and I can find a quiet spot and read my books. I don't like shows, games, crafts, whisky tastings, go carts, or water slides. I like smart dressing, but leave my tux at home. In nine cruises I've only been to one evening show, and that was, happily, to accompany my mother-in-law. We are also hooked on the Neptune Suites, knowing that some resent them. I like the quiet, the personal concierge greeting every morning, and the more expansive cabin space for long sea days trips. I have no opinion on muster drills, cooperate for my own safety, and hope I never have to use the information. I'm also a faithful follower of your "Tips" series, Gary. Thanks!

[@macdaddymgiarc]

I had the same feeling on Princess in April. People were coming to "formal night" wearing pirate hat and shorts, even though they say, if you dont want to wear that outfit, go to one of any other dining room. Pick a lane.....either have no dress code, or enforce. I am good either way. Dress code is like alcohol code. If you are choosing to enforce some rules and not the others, I lose respect for you.

[@kathlud1]

Recently got off RCCL's Ovation -- 5000 passengers, to Alaska. We had a suite, my elder mom and I, and it was amazing. The suite lounge is perfectly situated in the back of the ship with 180 degree veiws (not like HAL in the center with zero windows), having a separate, quiet dining area each day with great food was really appreciated, and essentially made it bearable for us to be able to sail such a giant ship. We loved the other resources of the ship including all the excellent entertainment. It made a massive ship on a mass line feel intimate and quiet. A+++ for separate areas for people who save up to pay for that.

[@LoredanaT]

The ship within the ship doesn't bother me IF it doesn't take too much space from the whole ship (otherwise, just call it a luxury ship, hike up the price for everyone, but don't treat some of your passengers so poorly). Regarding the drill: as a former crew member I think both options should be offered - digital for everyone on board + in person for anyone who feels the need to reinforce what they have learned or that feels more reassured by talking about some of the rules with the crew (like people who don't cruise a lot or first timers, to name just a few).

[@CarboneCat]

1. The crew are already overworked already, if they are coerced to do a show on top of their duties, that’s s no go for me. 2. Dress codes, if there’s one, it should be enforced. However, I do appreciate dressing guidelines so that I know exactly what to pack. 3. Towel animals are fun. We don’t expect nor request them but when one appears on our bed, it’s always a fun surprise. 4. I do prefer the e-muster. The in person muster can be drawn out and people are necessarily paying much more attention to the video than in their cabin. In both case, we must present ourselves to the crew member at our designated muster station. 5. I don’t mind exclusive concierge location as long as they don’t take up over a huge portion of the available passengers area. Up to about 15%, it should be fine. However, if more than 20, 30 and up is unavailable to everyone, it’s exaggerated.

[@debbieboswell5785]

In person musters are a pain in the butt. I really enjoy watching the video and then checking in with a crewmember.

[@annclevenger3255]

I miss the Formal nights with beautifully turned out cruisers, love to dress up ...RCCL Diamond Plus...over 60 cruises....now people show up in shorts & ball-caps & some even in tank tops 🥺

[@ellenshepard2351]

Thanks Gary, I really appreciate this discussion. 1. Regarding the talent shows, I think that if the crew has some particularly talented people that would really enjoy performing for the passengers then that would be a delight to see. I don't think any of the crew should be forced into it. 2). I do not like having the separate areas on the ships, hence, making the ship experience smaller for the rest of us. I think those that can pay for and want a more elegant experience should take a more luxurious line. 3. We really enjoyed the formal nights and think they should be enforced. Let's face it, it's about the only time some of us get really dressed up. 4. I think the animal towels are charming and should be a part of the cruise experience. Thanks for asking.

[@kathystephens6524]

I only like the idea of elite areas for a higher price if I am one of the people who can afford them- and that’s rarely me- so I’d prefer this not be on all new ships; perhaps only a few?

[@loretaa8099]

Very good observations and questions raised. Thank you. About *ship within the ship* concept. I would prefer to have entire ship accessible to all guests. No exclusive areas. If one wants to be pampered, they should sail with companies that provide this service like Cunard, Viking.

[@vanceb1]

I have mixed feelings about dress codes but one thing that should be hard and fast is prohibiting people from wearing shorts, ball caps and flip flops in dining rooms.

[@johngarner6028]

Re the crew entertainment: back in March 2020, just as Covid hit the UK, we were on Cunard Queen Victoria at the end of our cruise intending to fly home. As the ship was due to leave Florida for Southampton the captain refused to let anyone at all get on board the ship (including the US immigration people!) but said anyone who wants to stay on to Southampton may do so . That was us as our flight home had already been cancelled. As no new entertainers were allowed to board it fell to the crew to put on several shows for the 11 days we were at sea; all very impromptu but they did a brilliant job. Considering most of them didn't know whether they'd still have a job when we got back to the UK they certainly went above and beyond. They received a standing ovation at the end and we all had a great time. We had a couple of formal nights too, dress code enforced!

[@michaelvoisey8458]

I recently cruised on the Britannia we boarded and our boarding pass or e ticket had our cabin number and a bar code and the muster point code letter so first thing we did was go to the muster point sign in and then it go to the cabin collect our cruise cards and enjoy the cruise all this took 10 minutes or so from boarding . The best muster drill we watched the video later on

[@Gazza-E]

Since most mainstream cruise companies have gone for the mass-market, all inclusive 'resort at sea' approach dress codes really do seem like a throwback. Unless they have a very clear policy like Cunard where people actually want formality, it's time they dropped this archaic practice - most people now see cruising as a cheap way of having a holiday, the last thing they want is to have to think about formal clothing. If the likes of P & O want to retain some element of dress code than just have one dining room that is formal every night, people can then choose, personally the last thing I want to think about on a Caribbean holiday is which suit to pack!

[@keithemerson616]

Hi Gary! Love your videos! My husband and I have taken over 35 cruises in our 25 years together. Most every major cruise line. We like the virtual life boat information. We specifically don't book on Cunard or lines that have a strict dress code, but do understand those who would....just not how we choose to spend a vacation. In terms of the new segregation of classes, we are not fans. We were just on the Celebrity Apex cruise to Iceland. Decided not to book in the Retreat, as we had others traveling with us, and they would not have access. On the new Edge class ships, they have removed access to the entire front of the ship...all reserved for Retreat guests, this did not sit well with us at all. We have traveled in suites on Celebrity many times, however, this was the first since they created the whole exclusive ar3as. We have loved having our meals in Luminae, now we have to pay $60 pp for a specialty dining venue. We are rethinking Celebrity, but we are not sure what other options work!

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

Okay, you are so correct! To take away the entire front of the ship and ban lesser paying folks is just too much! They have enough floors that they can afford to allow lesser paying guests to have access to the front of the ship.

[@evelynhillier2877]

We are Celebrity addicts (have tried 5 other lines, 2 of which we'd use again, maybe 3 if the itinerary was special) but have yet to try Edge class. It sounds like it's not for us, and we'd already decided the infinite balconies are not for us...

[@barryhaley7430]

@@evelynhillier2877 The Infinity balconies have their pluses. The main being a constant view of the ocean. We never closed the blinds. We decided we would prefer regular balconies in warmer climates like the Caribbean or Mediterranean and Infinity in cooler weather like the Baltic and North Sea. We never used the regular balconies in the Baltic even in June.

[@jewelpickard9716]

We just cruised on the Celebrity Apex and absolutely loved that ship! We were a little annoyed by the Retreat area requiring Retreat Ship Cards to enter, as we wanted to see the inside and outside of the upper forward decks; we also could not enter the Blu dining area, even for a quick look-around. But it was just a minor annoyance; NOT a deal breaker. I would absolutely love to cruise on the Apex again; it was so bright and modern and well designed; we even had a door on the shower rather than just a billowing shower curtain! And USB ports everywhere! And the Captain came up to us on 4 different days and spoke to us individually; we NEVER felt like we were 2nd class or steerage.

[@barryhaley7430]

@@jewelpickard9716 All Celgrity ships have proper shower doors.

[@kathyslocombe1182]

We like dress codes and actually dress more upscale than is required each evening for dinner. I agree with your sentiments on the towel animals. Travelling with Celebrity on many cruises, we enjoyed the evening turndown service very much. Our next cruise is on Holland America and if I understand correctly they do towel animals every evening BUT you can opt out of having them, which we will, and opt for turndown service, which we will ask for. We don't need 35 towel animals on this cruise. But, my biggest issue is environmental. Living on the west coast of Canada, we compost, recycle, are green in so many ways so I guess I'm just conditioned to be more environmentally friendly.

[@randypoisson8823]

I don’t mind the ship within a ship concept, as long as there is still ample public passenger space. Celebrity seems to do this well. What does bother me is the reserved seating in public spaces for certain suite class or even high level cruisers. The cruise lines emphasize no saving seats, but then save seats. 🙄

[@jlgcannuck]

Rules that I care about are ones that affect my experience. So put sign up about no saving lawn chairs around deck and then monitor it strictly for example. . Also adult only areas---it isn't adult only except for your dear children it is for ALL children. Enforce this. . Sadly common sense has gone away for many people. They can't figure out what would be appropriate for a "fancy" dining room. So they should list out for example smart casual as the code and then explain what is prohibited and will not be allowed. eg. the no flip flops, ball caps, shorts, bathing suits etc.. Those people can use the buffet. If there is a "rule" for dress code like black tie or formal attire then it should be enforced. What causes friction is people expecting one thing and getting another. I think black tie is over the top for a cruise given everyone trying to fly with less luggage these days and that is not how most society lives in most cases. People know which lines have that and should book accordingly if that is what they want and then their expectation should be met. Towel toys are cute but knix that because it isn't productive . If they costed it out probaby much cheaper to drop a chocolate on each bed rather than have staff making towel animals. Knix staff talent---why would an exhausted staff member be expected to sing and dance for us after a long day of service. If they want to sing and dance they should have down time to do that on their own. It feels sort of creepy that people have to clean my room or serve me dinner and then go put on a show for me. If they are talented---then give them an entertainment job and on the days they entertain they don't do their "regular" job.

[@katem4365]

Hi Gary 👋🏻 I certainly understand the appeal of ship w/in a ship - for those who can afford it, why not. I am new to cruising and originally put deposits down on 5 cruises...including MSC and Costa - well, tbh I cancelled those two to focus on higher quality cruises instead: HAL, Cunard and Celebrity. Point I'm trying to make is, although my budget doesn't permit me to bk suites or exclusivity, I can use my travel dollars more wisely and buy best quality I can afford. I do understand the desire for "nice" things - my mother used to say I have champagne taste on a beer budget 😅 She was right!

[@KBTCaseyFlynn]

Anti Crew Talent Night - they get little enough time off Anti Towel Animals - too much extra laundry Dress Code Enforcement - if you have it, enforce it. If not, don’t have it Anti Ship Within a Ship - use up too much room making it more crowded for others. I’ve used it and its lovely but too snobby Anti In-person Muster

[@silk2949]

I am not a seasoned cruiser like you, but I have been on a few of various types….river cruise-Viking, repositioning/Australia-Royal Caribbean, Greek Island-local Aegean sea midsize ship, UK-Silversea, next year Panama Canal-Silversea. In this age of yoga, sweat and pyjama pants in public, I absolutely want/need dress codes AND enforcement of dress codes. I don’t understand why people wouldn’t want to put their best foot forward, even on vacation. But perhaps not everyone enjoys dressing up, I do. I did notice a unique phenomenon on the RC cruise - at first I was truly disappointed in the passengers choices for daytime attire, but I continued to dress in casual smart and after a few days I noticed others were also stepping up their game, so that was a pleasant surprise. Travel is a magical event and should be treated as such.

[@happycruiser]

I'm with you. If you have a strict dress code, then enforce it. Otherwise, no sense having one.

[@stellarsjay1773]

If I have booked a holiday expecting at least one truly formal night then I expect to enjoy one. If you don’t like that idea, book another cruise or cruise line. It’s not as if there’s not lots of choice.

[@carolatchley3797]

To start, I like the crew talent show. To my knowledge, no one is forced to perform. What I love about it is that the guests have an opportunity to see the crew as human beings with their own personalities and talents, not just as someone in the background serving us. The crew do work exceptionally hard, and this can be a fun change of pace for them. And then on to towel animals. That obviously takes some of the time for the housekeeping staff. I find the animals cute, but I've cruised so much that they really mean nothing to me. Maybe I need to just speak up on my next cruise and let my steward know that he/she can skip it. I like to dress casually on my cruises, but I still follow the dress codes for the dining room. Elegant nights I wear black pants and a sparkly top. It's not an evening gown, but then again I don't travel on the lines that request tuxes and formal wear. I believe if the cruise line has a dress policy it needs to be enforced, at least in the dining room. If people don't want to dress up, let them enjoy the buffet for dinner on that night. As for the areas of the ship reserved for guest who pay more, that doesn't bother me at all. I don't need to be in an exclusive area, and I don't need to be pampered to that extent, but I'm glad it's there for those who want it. Finally, I much prefer the new way of doing the muster drill. If relays the needed information in a short amount of time, you have to find your muster station to get checked in, and you don't have to stand outside on a hot promenade deck in the middle of the summer packed in like sardines under a blazing sun!

[@bettybierema7255]

I think the in person muster drill is important for first time cruisers.

[@oldcodgerwithacamera]

Just come back from our first Fred Olsen cruise and have to say the crew talent night was by far the most enjoyable of any of the entertainments offered. They put their hearts into it whereas the other entertainers seemed to just be going through the same old routines that you find on almost every cruise.

[@Ellie-rx3jt]

Clearly the cruise lines who have more sophisticated dress codes are struggling to find enough paying customers who want to follow them, or they would be enforcing them. Perhaps the answer is to divide the main dining room into a formal and a casual area. Those who love dressing up can be among their kind, and those who don't likewise without missing out on facilities they paid for. Doesn't help with the other areas of the ship (although the theatre is another place where you could easily arrange a formal area) but the main dining room seems to be the main complaint anyway. It's also worth noting that formal clothing (particularly men's, us women have somewhat more choice of cut and fabric) is often a nightmare for people with sensory issues.

[@haznut5]

I thought of the divided dining room as well, for those who want only fancy clothing.

[@tommyedodson2412]

Re: Muster Drills. I like the hybrid process we experience on Viking Ocean this year. You watched a video in the comfort of your stateroom on the basics (life jackets, whistle blows, etc) and then confirmed that via phone to an automated response number BUT then you (at your convenience within a given frame of time) reported into your Muster station where they scanned your card (that's all). So you know where you are to go.

[@NancyD2]

This is wharbPrincess does as well.

[@LiberalsCauseCancer]

That whole talent show thing is debatable because on one hand it can be entertaining and yes it can connect the crew with passengers to a certain degree, HOWEVER, every single cruise line will terminate crew for simply interacting with passengers while not on duty, or join them on the shore for a drink or any number of other social situations they are forbidden from engaging in. It is a mixed message.

[@well-blazeredman6187]

I did not know that!

[@co7580]

A good point. I believe it ends with money being the reason. The more the crew do, the less the line has to spend on entertainers, perhaps.

[@stephenhayes9876]

Holland America had crew shows back in the 1970's . Many passengers including myself looked forward to the crew shows and it was usually standing room only.

[@lynnejames2592]

I love Cunard for the ocean liner experience, I would be very disappointed if people didn’t follow it. If you don’t want to comply please choose a different company or eat in the food hall,which has excellent food and no dress code.

[@forstar3943]

The crew who participate in the shows volunteer for it and love doing them ( there may be an element of hope that guests remember the shows when it comes time to tip!).For people who have a talent, performing in front of an appreciative audience is not a drudgery but pure enjoyment! Imagine you are a talented singer but in order to support your family you work 12 hours a day for ten months. Periodically being allowed to perform and be appreciated for your ability would be the best part of the job. Ask the crew who perform what they really think…you may be surprised! If you don’t like the show, don’t go, but don’t take that joy away from them.

[@barnum4244]

Never been on a ship with a crew talent show so can't comment. Only had towel animals on Royal Caribbean. They put a smile on our faces. I suspect if they were removed, management would say that opened up enough time for the cabin stewards to service even more cabins meaning the line could employ fewer of them. Not seen dress code enforced. Gives people the opportunity to dress up or not as they wish on THEIR holiday. New class divides puts me off. I'm sure thinking they are in steerage will put many passengers off booking, plus the smugness of those on the upper side of the divide will only serve to split the atmosphere on board. I prefer the post pandemic muster.

[@malcolmstockbridge2569]

I do have to say that despite the negatives of crew shows we have many times seen them perform the very famous "If I were not upon the sea"...doesnt seem to appear much at the moment where it was seen on most lines a decade or more ago...for those that havent seen it I promise its one of the funniest things we have ever seen :)

[@carolyn6016]

Years ago, before Hurricane Katrina, many restaurants in New Orleans required men to wear sport jackets at the least, and women had to wear dresses. After Katrina, These elegant restaurants relaxed their dress codes. Women can wear nice pants, and men can come sans jacket. My elderly mother-in-law does not wear dresses anymore, but she was thrilled when they treated her like royalty at Commander's Palace. Dressing appropriately for the atmosphere shows respect for yourself and others, but evening gowns and tuxedoes may not be necessary. As for muster drills, I have seen passengers be very rude to the staff. The e-muster drills might be saving a lot of grief and stress for most.

[@patti1044]

Towel animals are cute once per cruise particularly if you have kids, we save ours a couple days and then use the towels. E-muster has been great, particularly for those who have cruised before. Dress code should be enforced but that will be challenging in today's attitude for personal wants. Last night enjoyed a lovely meal in a nice though not dressy restaurant and saw men in baseball caps at the table. While it does not impact my meal it does make me wonder, why. And the ship within a ship concept has made us evaluate our cruising - the prices are so high we can book on a nicer ship for less than that and enjoy a who,e different experience. Sailing on the Edge class ships with all access to the bow of the ship closed off made me realize we wanted to look elsewhere.

[@Mel-yb3rb]

Hello all. Thanks again to Gary for all of the valuable information. I have just returned from a Saga cruise to the smaller Mediterranean ports. No towel animals. In fact, my cabin steward initiated a helpful conversation on the first day during which we agreed on a code. If I wanted a towel washed, I put it on the floor. If it was not on the floor, I was happy to reuse it. I understand that towel animals might be amusing, but I would be uncomfortable with the time and additional laundry required. I enjoyed the crew talent show, but the crewmembers I interacted with most frequently did not seem enthusiastic about the whole idea. The dress code issue is complicated. I like the suggestion below that there be clearly designated formal areas as well as plenty of recreational space for less formally attired guests. I personally don't see why anyone needs to wear jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or flip-flops to dinner on a cruise. Try room service if you feel like a schleb. Saga does not offer the ship-within-a-ship concept, and I felt that passengers in all cabin grades were treated with respect and mingled everywhere. We watched a safety drill and then reported by deck to a very efficient in-person muster drill. I was happy with that experience. I had a wonderful time and plan to cruise again soon. Thanks, Gary!

[@utubejeff1]

Great video. We've been cruising for 40 years and they sure have changed. The muster question is easily solved: they should have the e-muster available which requires you to check in physically at your station. Then they should have an optional additional in-person presentation for those that want to actually put on a life vest etc. Then everyone is happy.

[@meganstuart5626]

I agree with those saying the cruise line should enforce the dress code, at least in certain areas. I pick my cruise line and cruise ship based on the atmosphere and happen to love getting dolled up for gala night and the old school charm of everyone is gowns and tuxes. I think those that are opposed should keep to the buffet or choose a different cruise line. It's becoming a less popular opinion, but it's still mine.

[@michaelluczyk]

Alright, this is my take on the muster drills. If you have a standing with the particular cruise line, ie, have sailed with Norwegian before and you are on a Norwegian ship, you should be able to complete your muster drill electronically. Those passengers who are traveling with Norwegian the first time, or cruising for the first time, must complete their muster in person. I think this would pacify both groups rather quickly as the experienced cruisers would not be bothered and the newbies wouldn’t be anxious about remembering what a video states!

[@Hawkeye2001]

E-Muster for me. Standing in the hot sun, while a few lazy folks finally show up, and then the hustle and bustle, as no one is listening or even talking over the crew trying to give lifesaving information. For those of us that were trying to pay attention, it was a waste of our time. -- Formal nights: either enforce the posted dress code, or don't have a dress code. For those not interested in dressing up, there are other venues. - I've enjoyed the crew shows, and it appears that most of the crew enjoyed showing off their skills.

[@scottlenyo8579]

Well we certainly like the new style E muster drill. As for dress codes, personally we wish the lines would enforce the codes, as a matter of fact we wish the cruise lines would enforce all the rules especially the chair hogs who put their stuff out early. There are multiple cruise lines, if the lines would clearly market themselves properly and enforce their rules it everyone would benefit. If one doesn’t want to dress up, sail on Carnival, Royal Caribbean or celebrity. If one does sail on Cunard or HAL. The current system just annoys everyone.

[@pickard72]

When we sail on a premium line such a Princes, Holland America and Celebrity, we expect the passengers to dress for dinner in the MDR (and leave the baseball caps in their rooms then.) The Buffet is open and has a fine selection of well prepared dishes for people who like to wear robes, denim cutoff shorts, distressed jeans, flip-flops, tank tops, Crocs, men's hats and t-shirts to every meal.

[@littleglimmer2325]

Hi Gary, another very informative vid. Here's our tuppence worth - Dress code enforcement - if there is a dress code then it should be enforced. For every passenger who says they paid their money and should dress how they want there must be dozens who have paid their money to enjoy the experience of dressing smartly for dinner and evening events - and expecting others to do the same. Yes Cunard have Gala nights for the bow tie and cocktail dress nights but these are only two or three nights on a typical cruise. The other nights are more important in our view for dining in a restaurant with waiter service, tablecloths, etc. So yes, dress code should be enforced. Show respect for the staff who serve and the chefs who prepared the meal! Ship-within-a-ship. I see some lines seem to be using this to just grift more money at the expense of the comfort of other passengers. Is this a tacit acknowledgement that the drive to crowd more passengers on a ship puts people off cruising? There will always be some people who regard access to select areas as a mark of status, sadly, but the purpose should be to give the passengers who like some quiet relaxation during the day or evening a place to do that if they wish. Princess Grill on Cunard gives just that without cramming in a whole world of cruise experience facilities into select areas. Muster drills. Well I guess some people regard these as airline safety drills; a tiresome interruption. Really, a few minutes to register doesn't ruin the holiday or take out huge lumps of precious time. One thing that may help is for cabins to display very prominently exactly where the relevant muster station is. Video demonstrations get as much attention as theatre demonstrations so there is no advantage to going back to in-person drills. Crew talent shows - haven't experienced any but they do seem to be an additional imposition on the very hard working staff. Engaging with staff on a personal level to find out about their heritage is surely more rewarding than watching them perform and a tangible way to show respect.

[@contessalouannec8064]

Thank You for all the information. Happy Travels.

[@chipper592]

Gary, I recently was on a Cunard and I hated the fact that they DID not enforce the dress code. I have been cruising since 1980 and love the more formal approach. I love the new approach to muster drills. Crew talent show has never done much for me. I do miss the sparklers on the baked alaska when the crew does there march in the dinning room. Gary, you do a great job, keep up the good work and keep booking luxury cruise lines.

[@victoriasmith1897]

I agree with what you prefer Gary. No to animal towel sculptures, no extra work for crew to perform but maybe a choice? Yes to Haven/retreats for guests who can pay (not that I ever could), yes to enforcing dress code (people do not have to cruise on that line if they don’t want to dress up).

[@akajasonbourne]

The recent changes announced from princess cruises regarding what was included and will be chargeable. Unless you take up a package

[@donkiml5805]

On a Royal Caribbean cruise we went on many years ago. There was a flag parade of the different countries that the staff were from. 🇬🇧🇨🇦🇼🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿People gathered around the atrium and they march/danced through with their flags with some general dancing music clapping. Some of the staff really got into it as a pride for their home country. We found it very lively fun and interesting to see how many countries were represented. This seems like it would not put a lot of stress on the staff to do a show, but acknowledge them and their background. I do kind of like the towel animals but I don’t feel I need them every single night. A few nights scattered here there with towels and chocolate is something that’s kind of fun. I could never afford the added money for the private areas on the ship so all I can be is envious.

[@russellyeley2561]

I feel that it is an outlet for the crew who are cooped up on a ship. I saw a crew band on the Regal Princess before the shutdown. They were fantastic. On of the upper level officers even sang lead in one of the songs.

[@LivelyFL]

I've cruised a lot and I don't like the towels for the reasons you mentioned. I tell our cabin steward that I would rather he get off 15 min early than fold me a towel. Also, environmental reasons. Now they have to wash towels that have been laying in my room. I'm torn on the crew talent show. If it's a guy that wants to sing and enjoys it then yes. But if they have to do a group dance that no one wants to do then let's skip it. Finally regarding dress. I don't like to dress up on vacation with fancy dresses. But that's just me.

[@MMonYouTube]

Another wonderful video. Thank you. I must say I fully agree with your perspectives on every topics discussed in this video. One thing I would like to add is I prefer the "ship within the ship" concept, i.e. Haven, only offer on the bigger ships where there are more spaces for allocation. Another debatable topic is the buffet. For hygiene reasons, I would like to see food being served by crew staffs so tongs are not being touched by hundreds of people.

[@marlenelibby7328]

Towel animals are fine if you are traveling with children, but I agree with all of your reasons for not having them if you're adults only.

[@tinawilliams983]

I asked my cabin steward about the towel animals on my recent Holland America cruise. He said they use the same towels for the animals all week as long as the towels are still clean. That saves on laundry. The only time they don’t, is if the guest requests to keep the animals on display the entire cruise.

[@marilyncoburn4936]

You really covered the main new issues. Some are passengers responsibility to change but others are for crew members to speak up. We all have to get used to the new ways. I have strong opinions on each issue that you brought up. I strongly believe that the mustard station drill is a lifeline if something goes wrong. In our world lots of things are going wrong so people should spend the time and be prepared. Then happy cruising.

[@kathleenhudson8429]

I like the idea of the e-muster, but only if it means people actually learn what they should. My friend has trouble with the regular muster drill because she has problems standing that long.

[@DJDave-ln1jt]

Why InPerson muster is important. 1) Early identification of passengers with: a. Mobility issues. b. Stamina issues. c. Psychological issues. d. Inability to follow simple instructions.