Cruise Ship Travelers Criticize and Denounce a Controversial Rule Deemed as an Unfair Expense
When it comes to cruising, many travelers look forward to relaxing on deck, exploring new destinations, and indulging in the various amenities and activities offered on board. However, there is one rule that has recently come under fire and left even the most dedicated cruisers scratching their heads. This controversial rule pertains to drink packages, which are a common offering on cruises. While they may seem like a convenient way to enjoy unlimited drinks without worrying about the cost, there is often a catch that has left passengers feeling frustrated and cheated.
The rule in question is that if one person wants to purchase a drinks package, everyone in the same stateroom has to do so as well, despite the packages being charged per person, per day and strictly not allowed to be shared. This means that even if only one person in the group wants to partake in the unlimited drinks, everyone must pay for it. For Australian couple Christine and Dave Russell, who have been going on multiple cruises a year for the past decade, this rule has proven to be a significant inconvenience. When Ms. Russell decided to stop drinking 12 months ago, it meant that Mr. Russell had to miss out on purchasing the drinks package, as Ms. Russell would have been forced to pay $111 ($72 USD) a day for drinks she wouldn’t consume. This additional expense can add up quickly, leaving passengers feeling like they are being taken advantage of.
News.com.au reached out to several major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, P & O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean, all of which sail in Australia with similar conditions. Surprisingly, not one of these cruise lines could provide a reason for this rule. Carnival Australia, the parent company of several cruise brands, defended the policy by stating that their beverage packages are optional and allow guests to customize their cruise experience according to their personal preferences. However, this explanation did little to appease passengers like Adam Glezer, a consumer advocate who believes that the rule is unreasonable and simply a profit-making exercise for the cruise companies.
While the rule is met with frustration and annoyance by many passengers, some cruise lines have taken a different approach. Both Virgin Voyages and Disney Cruise Line, which recently had their first seasons in Australia, have ditched traditional drink packages. Virgin allows guests to pre-pay their “Bar Tab” and receive bonus on-board credit for doing so, while Disney offers packages of bottled wine and a refillable beer mug for guests. Royal Caribbean also takes a slightly different stance on the rule, requiring the purchase of a “Refreshment Package” if a guest within the stateroom does not drink alcohol.
Passengers’ reactions to cruise drink packages have been mixed, with some warning that they are not worth the expense and others sharing how they have managed to get their money’s worth. However, the consensus among many travelers is that the rule forcing everyone in the same stateroom to purchase the package is unfair and unnecessary. Adam Glezer believes that any cruise company willing to buck tradition and eliminate this rule will have an edge over their competition.
In conclusion, the controversial rule regarding drink packages on cruise ships has become a subject of criticism and denouncement among travelers. The requirement for everyone in the same stateroom to purchase the package, even if they do not want it, has left passengers feeling frustrated and cheated. While some cruise lines defend the rule as optional and aligned with industry standards, others have taken a different approach by offering alternative options or eliminating the rule altogether. As passengers continue to voice their dissatisfaction, it remains to be seen if the cruise industry will make changes to address these concerns and provide a more equitable solution for travelers.
