All DVC Member Cruise Complaints/Concerns Post Here

[CarolAnnC]

All DVC Member Cruise Complaints and Concerns are welcomed on this designated thread. Keep in mind please, that all DIS Posting Guidelines still are to be adhered to.

This is being done as a convenience to those who would like to express their opinions and as an easily located thread. Thank you all for your cooperation in this regard!

[RRBB]

Okay, I'll bite.

I know there are a lot of DVC members here that feel this "special" cruise is a rip-off because it costs more points than the regular 4-day. And DH and I questioned that increase as well. The only extra we've been told about is an extra day at Castaway Cay, so why more?

However in the end, DH and I decided that this extra cost is worth it to us. We're hoping that there will be bonuses that have not been announced. But even if there aren't, we are still very excited about spending 4 days with other DVC members. (Heck, we're just excited to take a trip after the hustle and bustle of the holidays.) It is a choice that we made based on the information we were given. We weighed the pros and cons, looked at our calendars, and took the plunge.

Everyone has their own reasons for using their points the way they want. This cruise is no different. With the ship selling out in just 2 days there are obviously many of us that feel this is a good use for them.

I've already read a good number of the gripes and complaints about this cruise. Everyone has a right to voice their opinions. But isn't this thread just a little late.

[CarolAnnC]

This thread is not "late". It was placed here by the DVC Moderators as a way to keep the complaint/concern threads that were popping up in various other threads on the board, in one place. The DIS has used this method on other boards when there were issues being discussed such as the discontinuance of Early Entry in the WDW parks. Since the topic was still a popular one, we decided to employ this method here. Please email us with any further questions you may have concerning DIS policy. Thank you!! :)

[Johnnie Fedora]

I will repost from a closed thread if anyone wants to comment.

On another thread, gary in florida posted that he was booked on the original DCL cruise (i.e. the cruise that became a member only "special"). He was bumped (in spite of being a DVC member) and was offered a 2 catagory upgrade (10 to 8) on another cruise.

Looks like we have a partial answer as to way the "special" cruise costs so much more $$$. As I suspected, DVC members most likely had to pay the costs of upgrading all the displaced cruisers who were already booked. Cat 10 to 8 is a nice upgrade.

Even if the original cruise was going to sail half full, I'm sure DCL insisted on rack rate for the member cruise cabins. After all, they're not going to lose any money on the deal !!! (not when they have DVCers on the hook). So DVC had to pass that extra cost on to the DVC members who chose to cruise.

Gary in Florida....I hope you (and i'm sure you will) enjoy your upgrade and cruise, even if it's not your chosen date. :smooth:

[mrsdon]

Ok, I'll bite also
Im going on the cruise. They are my points and if I choose to spend them all for the cruise, then thats my choice.
I spent 263 points to trade out to a 2 bedroom in Gatlinburg.
Was that the wisest use of my points. Maybe not to some people, but again its my decision.
If you chose not to go, thats good for you guys also.
I would never fault a member for the use of their points.
While the points maybe higher, they also elimanted the $75 transfer fee.
Im cruising and Im escatic!!
Debbie

[brittsmum1998]

Very well said RRBB, and Carol, I'm gald you started this thread. As a family going on this cruise, I'm sick of seeing all the negative posts that don't apply to the topic at hand. I personally don't like using the high points for the weekends, I don't refer to people that are using weekend points as suckers etc. As previously stated, we can use the pts as we see fit. We are looking forward to this first cruise and looking forward to meeting the other DVCers and people from the Dis boards.

Johnny Fedora....How many times do you think you will have to post your message re; upgrades before you get an answer??? ;) :rolleyes:

[dbond]

Am I dreaming or do I recall a survey from DVC sometime this year about this very thing, and I think one of the questions was are you willing to pay more for member only events that are exclusive to DVC members. I believe that I answered yes as I am sure many other members must have. And by the way this cruise filled up so quickly, I believe the members have spoken. Personally, we are not going on this cruise, but If we had enough points in our account we would have booked without a second thought. However, too many wonderful concierge collection locations this past year left us strapped. So when we had to consider the cruise at the cash price, we did decided to opt out. Not because we felt like we were being ripped off or anything, but because we could get more for our money doing something else at another time. Our cash flow for vacations only goes so far so we have to consider the rest of the year before we blow it all on one trip. Are we disappointed, you bet, were we hoping for a killer deal, you bet, are we upset at DVC because they didn't give us a deep discount, absolutely not. We understand the business of it all, they have to keep their heads above water and so does DCL. I am so jealous of everyone that gets the chance to go and If another survey comes around and asks me if I will pay more for member events I will say yes again, and maybe next time I'll have enough points in my account to splurge!

[Muushka]

Because if this incident, my expectations are very low of anything that DVC will ever offer! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

How is that for a non-negative post!!!:D :D :D :D :D :D

[DVC1996]

As many already know, I was on the 10th Anniversary DVC Member Cruise in April and highly recommended this upcoming cruise to others. I think it will be a fantastic cruise and only wish dh and I could make it this time. Members should not be criticized on how they spend their vacation points. They have paid for these points and should spend them in a manner that will bring them the most pleasure. The Member cruise sold out in 2 days and I think this is proof enough that there was a demand for a members only event. To be continually critical at this point in time serves no purpose. It's like beating a dead horse.

[bunnymkc]

When I first read about the DVC cruise which was RIGHT ON THESE BOARDS (WHERE ELSE) I wanted to call right away and go..I then thought that maybe all of the family would want to go and bought up the subject at a family dinner which went over like a lead ballon..complete silence..then my son said "MOM we are going on the Magic 12/5 thats just 2 months away" my daughter-in-law who is a girl after my own heart said " so what, it will be fun but we do have to consider taking jesse (my 7 year old grandson) out of school which he will be out for 2 weeks in nov & dec when we go to DW & on the 7 day western..so I thought & I thought and said to my husband who by the way said if you want to go we will, I guess they are right(BIG SAD FACE) MAYBE NEXT YEAR..I hope all of you have the greatest time and don't listen to anyone tell you what to do JUST DO WHAT YOU WANT..( I WISH I HAD) and for all you people that are saying why are you going..KEEP IT TO YOURSELVES..This is why we bought DVC to have fun and vacations that maybe we would not normally have taken...I hope that if this happens again we can join you all & get to meet some great DVC'S &Diser's..HAVE A BLAST..Marianne :earsgirl: :wave:

[goofy4wdw59]

I'll bite too! ;)...I think non-negative is such a subjective thing...
Many that are so-called "positive" postings are dripping with sarcasm and self-rightousness...IMHO!...Looking-glass self I say--what they are seeing in others they are so guilty of themselves.

Just curious-- why are there "positive" postings on a "negative" thread?! LOL... JUST a JOKE!

IMHO, I felt in my postings about this DVC cruise...that...I was expressing my "concern" or opinion...NOT being negative. I really enjoy Disney cruises and will continue to take them when our family is able to do so!
PLEASE--for those of you that spent the cash/points for the DVC cruise--don't be so sensitive! I hope that you all ENJOY the cruise. It's OK if we don't agree about how we use our points. I don't care how others spend their points--but--I would like to think I could express my point-of-view that it is over priced for DVC members (cash and points)! Honestly, I don't feel comfortable doing so.
Also, I agree with other non-positive posters concerning the impact on future discounting. I don't think it does DVC members, AS A GROUP--(NOT singling any one member out) any good to sell this cruise out so quickly. WE, as a group, are making it more difficult to see better discounts that I personally would LIKE to see. Just my opinion!
WHY should opinions that don't agree with the Cruise participants be viewed as "negative"? Can't we bounce our thoughts around here, or, do we all have to agree?
"Beating a Dead Horse".....hummmm....
where have I seen that one before? :p ;) :p ;) :p ;) :p ;) :p ;) :p ;)

[Johnnie Fedora]

I don't recall telling anyone how they should spend their points. I know I have said that before on a past thread.

Brittsmum...if you noticed, the original thread was closed immediately after I posted it, before anyone had a chance to respond. Then this thread was started. Therefore, I decided to repost it here where "negative" comments are somewhat acceptable, albeit isolated. I'm searching for an explanation for the point/cash increase, and my post offers an example and some opinion on that subject. I don't think that is negative. Other posters have questioned what happened to people who were already booked on the regular value season cruise. I used the example posted (about gary in FL) and speculated on how these upgrades were paid for (by DVCers). It is obviously my opinion.

In most of my posts on this topic, I try to point out a growing trend with DVC exchanges (mostly DC and DCL). Points have skyrocketed for these options and I think it is characteristic of a sad :( trend of soaking DVCers at every opportunity. In the past, when has DVC offered it's members a cruise special that cost MORE than the sailing season?? Why would we have expected anything different?? IMHO an exclusive DVCmember only cruise doesn't justify the increase seen. And of course, DVC doesn't comment on it to it's members or issues a canned comment to you about special itinerary blah..blah..blah.

I think it's really more of an issue on how the Disney bigwigs view DVCers as a group. IMHO, they view us as a cash cow group of lemings. I think it is a valid opinion, as valid as any other opinion expressed here. No one has to agree with me. I encourage all DVCers to review all aspects of their membership as DVC is marketed and sold (at least currently) as a package DVC resorts, DCL, DC, Concierge, etc. All members should be concerned with the overall program value, even if they don't utilize each and every program aspect.
:) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :)
I LOVE my DVC resorts (HH, VWL and BCV)
:) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :cool: :) :) :cool: :)

But I don't LOVE the way Disney Corp. views DVCers:(

[CarolAnnC]

Brittsmum...if you noticed, the original thread was closed immediately after I posted it, before anyone had a chance to respond. Then this thread was started

In order to make sure the correct information is being given out here, I would like to point out Johnnie that you posted at 10:49 pm, there were 3 replies, two of them from me, and I closed it at 12:19 am.

If I was not clear in the opening post of this thread, let me explain once again. Your thread was closed, as was another one, in order to condense the topic into this stuck thread on the top of this board.

Once again, the topic here is to discuss issues with the Member Cruise. If you have issues with DIS Posting Guidelines, address them in email to the Moderators, or they will be edited and/or deleted from this thread. Thank you.

[McMouse Family]

I believe that all of my comments have been as valid as any that I have noted on most other threads in the past. However, so-called "negative" comments are being dumped into one complaint file. Why not have all "positive" comments dumped into one compliment folder? I do not understand why everyone does not have the right to speak out on how they feel and post their comments where they want, whether that's adding onto an existing thread or starting a new one. What's the big deal?

I'm glad that many people are so trusting and confident with the member "deals." However, I have the right to doubt and question how good a deal really is. Perhaps this is simply not the right forum for our family.

:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsboy:

[minimahaki]

My only complaint is that if this is a members cruise why couldn't I book a two bedroom with points? I thought this would have been the time to allow the members to use the points in the one and two bedroom. I got my regular Cat. 5 room on deck 7 and I am happy. But I would have loved to try the two bedroom even though I am not crazy about staying on deck 8.
Lauretta :rolleyes:

[Muushka]

Originally posted by McMouse Family
I believe that all of my comments have been as valid as any that I have noted on most other threads in the past. However, so-called "negative" comments are being dumped into one complaint file. Why not have all "positive" comments dumped into one compliment folder? I do not understand why everyone does not have the right to speak out on how they feel and post their comments where they want, whether that's adding onto an existing thread or starting a new one. What's the big deal?

I'm glad that many people are so trusting and confident with the member "deals." However, I have the right to doubt and question how good a deal really is. Perhaps this is simply not the right forum for our family.



These are my sentiments exactly. Really makes me wonder about this DVC board.

[deerh]

I think it's really more of an issue on how the Disney bigwigs view DVCers as a group. IMHO, they view us as a cash cow group of lemings. I think it is a valid opinion, as valid as any other opinion expressed here. No one has to agree with me. I encourage all DVCers to review all aspects of their membership as DVC is marketed and sold (at least currently) as a package DVC resorts, DCL, DC, Concierge, etc. All members should be concerned with the overall program value, even if they don't utilize each and every program aspect.

Could not agree with you more. I am very happy people are going on this cruise and having fun! Been on the cruise with points myself and family-FUN!
NOW, here is the rub. A cat 6 eastern carr. 7 day cruise in 2002 is 211 pts for 1 adult. NOW, in 2003 same as above, a cat 6 is 237 pts. A 26 point increase!! AT THIS RATE, a cat 6 7 night cruise in 3 years will be 315 points!!!!! For 2 adults, this cruise will cost 630 points, and not counting my kids to go. So, I see what you are saying, the cost is going up and up and WAY UP! But, on the member web site, etc, what do you see the first page? The disney cruise line boats of course!! I just want to see the same DVC people that are happy now see them this happy when they have to shell out 315pts/ adult. I IMHO think it is too much and DVC is "sticking" it to the members. I know, I know, it is "gravy", that DVC is only for the resorts, points are best used there, but my main concern is how that taut the DVC cruise on every other page it seems like on their slick brochures, but in 3-5 years no one can afford it...... just my .02 cents..
By the way, 5 years from now the cat 6 will be 367 pts / adult.
food for thought......
deerh

[ncligs]

deerh,

Excellent post!!;)

[goofy4wdw59]

Yes, it has a degree of sarcasm in it, LOL...and...no more self-righteous than the "majority"...

I've deleted most of my post. What's the point in getting into a position where, possibly, a moderator(s) may be troubled/concerned about my postings, etc? I like to read the DIS boards and post occasionally, but, don't need the grief/worry about posting my honest opinion here, or how I post it, etc. I realize this isn't a democracy, this is a sponsored board.

(Glasses momentarily off) My DH (Johnnie Fedora) and I will continue to review and discuss all aspects of DVC--both the resorts and "special" programs offered outside of the DVC resorts. When we see something that, in our opinion, is a RIP-OFF, we will avoid it.
(Glasses back on) Everyone enjoy your DVC as you see fit!!:p :cool: :p :cool: :p :cool: :p :cool: :p :cool: :p :cool:

[gary in florida]

It was mentioned that I got a "2" cat upgrade, from cat 10 to cat 8 - when you really do some thinking it's not much of an upgrade.
We had a cat 10 secret porthole cabin - on deck 5 - cabin 5024. Cat 9 cabins are on deck 1 or 2, and if I remember right have they have 2 small portholes. Cat 10 has the same amount of room as a cat 8, 214 sq ft. The cabin we now have is is 5018, and the differences are - there is no obstruction - and it's 3 cabins from where we were orginally. We are going the next week, 2/9 - so again, I don't think it's much (if any) of an upgrade. I've heard they give these upgrades out if the ship is not full.

[HookdonWDW]

Just an observation: The Moderator stated that this thread was started in order for people to voice their DVC Cruise Complaints/Concerns. Then, I started reading posts, and all I saw was a lot of defense of the cruise. That doesn't seem to be the original intent of this thread. It's one thing to respond to specific points of posts, but this isn't what I am seeing. ::end of observation::

MPO is that if you want to spend your points on this cruise, feel free. As members of DVC, we chose not to participate in this cruise, because we can keep our original cruise plans for October and save enough points to cover a few days at a WDW before/after our cruise. Different strokes for different folks. I'm sure you'll all have fun, as will we.

I am concerned that DVC is being seen as a way to make up for the lack of sales that Disney is experiencing as a whole. IMHO, this cruise was a great way to fill up a boat that probably would have sailed half full, as well as adding people to the boats before/after this cruise by shifting the people who had originally booked this date.

This also means that there are now quite a few points that have been turned over to DVD just from people cruising on this boat. (In addition to the "normal" trading that takes place each year)I'm not an expert on how it works, but I do wonder if this means that DVD will be able to hold onto more rooms during peak holiday times (Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, etc...) when both "paying customers" and DVC members are sometimes unable to find the rooms they want. Due to timing of the sale of the cruise, we probably won't see any effect until Fall 2003. Will I be able to get the room I want during the Food & Wine Festival and Christmas next year? Will 7 month reservations become even harder to come by?

My next thought is for those going on the cruise. Many of those who are going have plenty of points, are paying cash, or are using cash and points. I have read posts from others who have now banked and borrowed to have the points for this cruise. They want to go on this "Special" cruise. Now, I realize that it's futile to try to control what others do, nor is it something I particularly want to do, but I wonder if we will see quite a few more DVC contracts on the resale market, because people are making dues payments/monthly payments, and are tapped out on points for the next couple of years. Will the cruise seem worth it then? And if there is a sudden glut of contracts on the market, will it lower the buyback point?

Please don't take this as a slam of the cruise or the people going on the cruise. As I said, I'm sure the cruise will be fun, and I'm sure that people will have a great time. We plan on using points to go to DLP, and I know that many on this board would never dream of "wasting" their points in this manner. As I said, these are just my concerns...

[Crissup]

Originally posted by HookdonWDW
This also means that there are now quite a few points that have been turned over to DVD just from people cruising on this boat. (In addition to the "normal" trading that takes place each year)I'm not an expert on how it works, but I do wonder if this means that DVD will be able to hold onto more rooms during peak holiday times (Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, etc...) when both "paying customers" and DVC members are sometimes unable to find the rooms they want. Due to timing of the sale of the cruise, we probably won't see any effect until Fall 2003. Will I be able to get the room I want during the Food & Wine Festival and Christmas next year? Will 7 month reservations become even harder to come by?

Actually, I don't think DVD has anything to do with this deal. This deal is between DVC and DCL. It would not be in DCL's best interest to hang onto these points. They will be rented out to cash paying customers.

I see this as DVC offered us something that we don't normally have. If we wish to partake, then we can. If not, then we don't have to. As long as we are not forced to participate, I don't see the problem.

[HookdonWDW]

Originally posted by Crissup


Actually, I don't think DVD has anything to do with this deal. This deal is between DVC and DCL. It would not be in DCL's best interest to hang onto these points. They will be rented out to cash paying customers.

I see this as DVC offered us something that we don't normally have. If we wish to partake, then we can. If not, then we don't have to. As long as we are not forced to participate, I don't see the problem.

I believe that DVD controls the points in DVC that are rented out to cash paying customers. I never thought that DCL would hold onto the points. I believe that DVD pays DCL for the rooms on the cruise. If my assumptions are correct, DVD would be involved because they control those points once they are used for the cruise. If I used DVD where I should have used DVC, I type corrected. Please excuse me, and change out all of the "DVD"'s in my post for "DVC"'s :rolleyes:

Secondly, the fact that the points would be rented to cash paying customers is exactly what I was questioning. The question remains... if this is true, how will this affect the ability of DVC members to make point reservations during peak times? Will a higher number of rooms be assigned on a cash basis, making it more difficult to book rooms starting next fall, especially at the 7 month mark?

Also, I believe I stated that everyone has the right to use their points as they choose, SEVERAL TIMES in my post. I just wanted to discuss the possible ramifications of bulk point-usage on room availability.

[CarolAnnC]

It seems to me that the ship full of 2,700+ DVC members are using their points (and cash for some) for a cruise here instead of booking up DVC Rooms with them. So there probably will be a greater chance of getting that particular time and/or room that you may desire....

[Crissup]

Originally posted by HookdonWDW
Secondly, the fact that the points would be rented to cash paying customers is exactly what I was questioning. The question remains... if this is true, how will this affect the ability of DVC members to make point reservations during peak times? Will a higher number of rooms be assigned on a cash basis, making it more difficult to book rooms starting next fall, especially at the 7 month mark?

Let's assume there are 100,000 points available in DVC (obviously, a grossly understated figure, but for the purpose of example). That means that there are 100,000 points available to use on room rentals. Now, 50,000 of those points get used to trade into DCL. DCL can rent those points out to cash paying customers as they wish. But, that wouldn't necessarily affect room availability. There are still a total of 100,000 points out there and only 50%, the percentage that was traded, are available to cahs customers. I only see this being a problem if there is a significant difference in the time frames that DVC members normally like to vacation vs cash paying customers. That would upset the scales a bit, but I don't believe it would cause more than a ripple in the system.

Originally posted by HookdonWDW
Also, I believe I stated that everyone has the right to use their points as they choose, SEVERAL TIMES in my post. I just wanted to discuss the possible ramifications of bulk point-usage on room availability.

You're correct, you did mention that SEVERAL TIMES in your post. I just chose to mention my opinion in my post once. ;)

[CarolAnnC]

IMHO, this cruise was a great way to fill up a boat that probably would have sailed half full, as well as adding people to the boats before/after this cruise by shifting the people who had originally booked this date.

For those who may not be aware of the immense popularity of the Disney Cruises, I would just like to clarify here that almost all of the cruises on the Wonder and the Magic sail at or near full capacity. DCL does not have any problem filling their ships at all - even in the least desirable hurricane season. Just an FYI to keep the facts straight here folks. Now on with your regularly scheduled programming..... :) :)

[dbond]

Have any of you priced other cruise ships lately in comparison to DCL prices. A 7-day Western Caribbean on DCL in March is running roughly $1200 higher than the same cruise on RCCL's Voyager of the Seas, their largest ship. DCL however, is not having a problem filling up that ship, why would they need to discount a cruise for DVC'ers when they could have filled the ship themselves. So, I think the perk for DVC'ers is actually the fact that they have the whole ship to themselves. There will be DVC CM's on board specifically to entertain you, the DVC member. All of the DCL staff will know who you are, and will treat you accordingly. But for those of you who expected discounts, why should DCL be willing to give up a sailing at a discount, they would be losing money if they did and they are not in the business of losing money. And how could DVC afford to take up the slack and offer members a discount and cover those costs they have to DCL themselves. If that were the case, every member, even those of us that chose not to go would then have to assist in the cost of covering that loss. DCL & DVC are separate entities and they both have to make what they consider smart business decisions. The believed that offering this to members was a smart decision, albeit I'm sure a risk, but they took the risk and constructed the costs so as not to lose their shirts in the process. DCL was willing to take a risk of losing an entire sailing but lo and behold the members stepped up and booked, and then DVC looks great in the eyes of DCL, their members came through as planned. It can only be the start of better things possible down the road, hopefully :)

[HookdonWDW]

Originally posted by CarolAnnK
It seems to me that the ship full of 2,700+ DVC members are using their points (and cash for some) for a cruise here instead of booking up DVC Rooms with them. So there probably will be a greater chance of getting that particular time and/or room that you may desire....

I know that those people won't be using their points at the DVC Resorts, since they were spent on the cruise. That's what inspired my question.

If 200,000 points (fictitious number) are used on this cruise, how does DVC/DVD decide when to sell them as cash ressies? Do Feb. Use Year points get used in Feb, August points in August and so on, or can DVD simply hold aside more rooms in the more desirable times of the year? If DVC/DVD can use the points whenever, doesn't this lead to the possiblity of fewer points being available during peak periods (ie. 20% of the rooms that are available on points at Thanksgiving on points are now cash ressies)? Does DVC/DVD have to offer these points for cash reservations during their original use year?

I know that people routinely use their points for things other than stays at a DVC resort, but I don't believe that this amount of points has ever been traded for one event in the past. I'm just curious on what effect (if any) this will have on ressies (especially at 7 months).

[HookdonWDW]

Originally posted by CarolAnnK


For those who may not be aware of the immense popularity of the Disney Cruises, I would just like to clarify here that almost all of the cruises on the Wonder and the Magic sail at or near full capacity. DCL does not have any problem filling their ships at all - even in the least desirable hurricane season. Just an FYI to keep the facts straight here folks. Now on with your regularly scheduled programming..... :) :)

To say that DCL is sailing at or near capacity on all cruises, and has no problem filling ships may be misleading IMO. If you check on Expedia, you can still find cabins available for September 4 day Magic Cruises in every category that they book (Cat. 4-11). In 5 out of the 8 categories, you get the max # of room choices, which is 8. In a quick 5 minute check, I identified over 60 cabins that were empty in a cruise 2 weeks from now. I'm pretty sure that I didn't figure out all of the empty cabins in my quick search ;). Additionally, Expedia offers the DCL at a reduced rate. I found Disney cruises at up to 50% off of the list price for the cruise. How many of the rooms that DCL sells are sold at these reduced rates?

DCL definitely offers a great cruise for your money, and I'm planning to cruise with them next year myself. I just think that when we look at the larger picture, that DCL is getting a great deal. They've filled up an entire ship at a higher-than-advertised price. There's not an empty room or a discounted room on the entire ship. My Economics professor would have been proud! ;)

[CarolAnnC]

Rest assured, we at the DIS would never "mislead" our posters. The owner of Dreams Unlimited Travel, Pete Werner, also owns these DIScussion boards. Myself and TnRobin moderate the Cruise Board as well as the DVC Board here. So we pride ourselves on having access to up-to-the minute cruise details. :)

In fact, if there were only 60 available rooms on a September cruise that would be fabulous!! There are 877 staterooms on board, so a 90%+ sailing capacity in Hurricane Season is fantastic!! :) :)

For anyone interested in reading all about Disney Cruises, you may want to visit our DIS Cruise Board. Here is the link to get you on there. Enjoy!! :) :)

click here to view the Cruise Board (http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=30&forumid=9)

[WebmasterDoc]

Just for clarification...

My understanding of how DVC points are used is that all Disney reservations are in a pool of rooms accessed by CRO and WDTC.

Once DVC points are used for a non-DVC reservation an appropriate number of villa nights are placed in this pool and are accessed by CRO/WDTC for cash reservations. They are not controlled by DVC or DVD at that point. I suppose they could also be used at non-DVC resorts in the same fashion DVC members can use them.

If these same points were used by DVC members at their home resorts, there would be a similar demand placed on DVC resort reservations, so the fact that they are now available for cash reservations should make little difference on other member's ability for point reservations. The points will still be subject to normal expiration deadlines.

With the number of discounted rooms available at WDW at this time, I expect that the CRO pool may be on the short side of the financial aspect of this member's cruise since they may have difficulty renting rooms reserved with those points for enough to cover the expenses paid to DCL.

The "pool" referred to above is more of an internal accounting system where credits are shifted to all resort and cruise participants based on the occupancy reserved. DVC resorts are on a slightly different basis, since the resort operating budgets are already covered by our dues.

I don't think points released to CRO/WDTC will affect member's ability to reserve in any negative fashion at all.

[KarenNY]

My only complaint is- I'm not going:(

[j6010]

:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Carol,

Have followed this issue for awhile.

Just to keep perspective -- I am now in Bahrain (on the Persian Gulf and about 250 miles se of Iraq). Family is in U.S. I expect to be here awhile. I would like to go on any DCL cruise, esp. DVC cruise this next year with DVC members -- regardless of points, upgrades, cabins, etc. etc. etc.

BUT IT AINT GOING TO HAPPEN!!

Any cruise I go on this next year will be in a lot warmer and more arid weather. Ship wont be nearly as comfortable either.

Just to keep perspective -- sometimes you dont realize how blessed you are, until what you have had is now gone.

In listening to the complaints about the increased points (yes, DIS made a mistake in charging DVC members more), just remember that it is a blessing to be able to go on this vacation at any cost, and a blessing that DVC members have the option on going on the DCL members only cruise at all.

As I sit over here for a long while, (unfortunately including Thanksgiving and Xmas), I will reminisce about the times at WDW and the one trip with my family on the Wonder. Hopefully, one day (it will be in the distant future) my family and I can go.

V/R
j6010

[Beth]

God Bless you and your family, j6010.
Thank you for "putting it all in perspective" for us.

[WDWLVR]

J6010 - Thank you, thank you, thank you. You have done a wonderful job of putting things in perspective for all of us.

We are going on the cruise and I can thank you and many others like you for making it possible by defending our freedom.

Blessings to you, your family and all you serve with.

[CarolAnnC]

Thank you so much j6010 for sharing your thoughtful reflections with us.

I gained my own personal perspective two years ago when my husband died suddenly at a young age, leaving me to finish raising my two daughters alone. We had bought into DVC 3 years prior to his death and thank God, we were able to make some wonderful memories with him for my daughters to cherish.

I hope that you are able to rejoin your family in the near future, and also make some more wonderful memories with them.

God Bless you for making the sacrifice to give us all safety and freedom here in the U.S.

[ncligs]

Just booked a 4 day Cruise (Wonder) for Feb 2004. I checked with DVC points for a catagory 7 with veranda, it was 143 pts each. So if I would have went through DVC,using points, it would have been 286 pts for DW and myself:(
I booked it on-line through DreamsUnlimited, got the early booking special, $50 rebate, and $50 on-board credit. So the total for our 4 day cruise using cash is $1400. Now I see why most people use $$ instead of points to go cruising.
We are not going to rent any of our points, but I can see how some people would rent them out, and use the money for the Cruise. If I would have rented out just 143 points it would have paid for the cruise for 2 people, and DVC wants 286 pts for 2 adults for this 4 day cruise???http://www.wdwinfo.com/sites/family/angryfire.gif

P.S. Now I see what fellow DVC'ers (Johnny Fedora and Deerh) are upset about.If points for cruising, keep going up every year, using points to cruise is not very wise.http://www.wdwinfo.com/sites/family/baby21.gif

[j6010]

Carol and others,

Thank you, and Carol especially thank you for remaining kind (and not bitter) after the loss of your husband.

I send greetings from Bahrain.


V/R
j6010

[Johnnie Fedora]

It's important to remember that very few of us really know each other or the personal strife that each of us struggle with...past, present and future. We can only guess from the manner in which someone expresses themself cyberly.

Having said that, I think 99.99% of the posts on the DIS (positive and negative) would be inconsequential to someone truly suffering personal loss or facing immenant military conflict.

Individuals with strongly differing opinions can still have the same things very well in perspective.

Speaking for myself, I'd trade all my DVC points for the next 40 years if I could guarantee my family wellness, safety, security, happiness, joy and love for the rest of their lives.

I think most of us would agree that we use DVC/trip planning/DIS postings as an escape from reality. Nothing wrong with that. I'd just like to see the whole DVC program retain it's value over time. And in my opinion, it hasn't over the short run (the member cruise is just one example). I'd like to use DVC as my personal escape well into the future.;) I look forward to many happy vacation memories for my family.

J6101: I wish you a safe return, and I hope you will be able to enjoy your DVC vacations sooner rather than later. You and all our military service personel are in our thoughts and prayers.

CarolAnnK: I'm sorry to learn of your husband. I hope you have found all the needed comfort to cope with that loss.

Ncligs: I'm glad my opinions where able to help you save your points for lots of extra OKW and VB vacations--rather than trading them all for one 4-day vacation. I'm sure you will enjoy all your trips.

Disney Corp: I hope you can gain some perspective too and realize that sometimes it might be nice to stop treating DVCers as an endless revenue stream that will pay anything for all things DVC/Disney. I know this DVCer won't.

Like the DVC resorts...Like Disney vacations...Don't like being taken for granted.

JMHO....Johnnie

[Regina]

j6010, I can't tell you how amazed I am that you found the time to comment on this discussion. It's much appreciated.

Please know that I'll be praying for your safe return.

[Mojomanny]

I think the main gripe I have as a DVCer is the perception that Disney seems to think they can take away member benefits (pool hopping and others, please lets not get into a debate, it was a feature which was offered and is now restricted) and increase the costs to DCL and Disney Collection.

Disney does seem to think of DVCers as a cash cow. We have made an investment and they know we will come. In economics terms, our visits are price elastic. We love Disney and will come no matter what the cost.

My feeling is that they are exploiting this. This is not a gripe merely about the DVC cruise, but Disneys attitude towards us in general.

Nobody asked, just my opinion.

[CruellaDuVille]

I have been lamenting that perhaps insead of buying Disney stock 4 years ago (it's now down 60%) I should have bought into the DVC.

I'm here reading this board because I'm still open to buying into the DVC.

After reading the board I'm now considering buying more Disney stock (while it's down, it HAS to go up) instead of even CONSIDERING the DVC.

I came here confused thinking the stock was the wrong decision, I'm leaving here even more befuddled!

[Mojomanny]

Cruella -

If it helps any, despite my comment above, I am actively looking for an add-on. I still consider DVC to be a good deal.

[Laurajean1014]

DVC should strongly consider a member's pass for admission to the parks.

Although we are a minority group, we do pull alot of weight. We are not a captive audiance with Universal, Sea World, Discovery, Vero, etc. all within a short distance away.

Even the restaurants inside the parks do not persuade DVC'rs to go or stay in the parks. I will not comment on what it should be, the numbers are up to DVC or the members as a whole, but something should be offered.

[rbreck]

I am definitely late in this discussion...we considered going on the dvc member cruise..so we called and were going to combine points and cash..well the cash price for this 4 day was more than we paid for the week long disney cruise! Not only that but when we went on the week long they were offering everyone on the street bigger discounts than they were offering DVC members. I called and told them I wanted the price that people off the street were getting and they told me I could not have it because I had used points for 1 person in our party, and that I was already getting something for FREE(like I didn't already pay a handsome price for my points!) I made a VERY BIG STINK about it as the cash savings were over $800! They gave me back my points and let me pay cash. So I ended up paying less and keeping all my points! I am not telling people how to use their points but if they can offer these DEEP discounts to eveyone else then why can't they offer them to the people who have guaranteed them their business for the next 40+ years! I felt like I was being penalized for being a DVC member. I hope you all have a wonderful cruise..hope you get to Castaway as when we went we could not get in to dock as the wind was too strong so we had to go to Freeport instead..ugh! And it was not even Hurricane season!:(