DCL character autograph "Mickey Mail" being discontinued in August

[declansdad]

Without ruining any Disney magic here, and keeping with Disney integrity. I was very good friends with some characters. At times, because of the volume of Mickey Mail, it can be scheduled, but sometimes not. And yes, there is a lot of candy

Thanks for the info.

 

[AU Dre]

Glad we had ours done back in January! Not going to complain they are discontinuing doing the service, but it was fun to be able to do it for our first Disney cruise. Not sure who it was that signed it for us, but it was fun for it to show up in our cabin before we left with the signatures on it.
I really wasn't even planning to bring anything for the upcoming cruise to be signed since it seemed like the stuff I wanted to be signed we got signed the first time (photo mat and a pillow case).
I can totally see how it could get out of hand with people complaining about lost/broken items, having 100 things per cabin and bringing in ridiculous stuff to be signed. I mean a lamp and an anchor. Really!
Would be nice if they could put some limitations on the service, but I know that sometimes it is easier to just cut something off then to try to implement a set of rules that need to be read and followed.

 

[FindMeAFishingSpot]

I am genuinely curious as to why? It not like it was signed by the actual Snow White but rather someone who plays Snow White (or whatever character it was) on-board a cruise ship.

Kind of like the tooth fairy. DS didn't know they didn't sign it, only that it was magical when it showed up all signed.

Not upset they're not doing it, but for my 6 year old, it was a nice little bonus.

 

[declansdad]

Kind of like the tooth fairy. DS didn't know they didn't sign it, only that it was magical when it showed up all signed.

Not upset they're not doing it, but for my 6 year old, it was a nice little bonus.

I get why a young child would cherish it, just not an adult.

 

[MousseauMob]

Why would concierge passengers have an item to sign if they know it's been discontinued unless s/he already felt entitled to some special treatment? I don't know, until DCL says that's a perk of sailing Concierge, I don't think it's appropriate to feel entitled.

I agree feeling entitled is not appropriate, but what if the person didn't know about the change and brought items? I also know how concierge pushes to provide "extras". Shoreside calls asking what they can do, and making suggestions. They came up with all kinds of things, I would have never thought of, because I didn't think it was allowed or possible. Bridge tour, private character meet (this was an additional cost). Once on board, it's the same, I can't tell you how many times I said, "No, we're fine". Our first year they brought signed pillow cases for the kids. I didn't even know about bringing items to Guest Services at that time. Last time we sailed concierge I agreed to having 1 grape and gorgonzola pizza from Palo on a sea day so my 17 year old son could taste it. Again, not my idea, they kept asking "Is there anything we an do for you? What about this or what about that?". Would you believe, they brought 2 of every variety, I was a bit stunned, then they did it again the next sea day! I had everything pre-booked and taken care of, so maybe they felt like they just HAD to do something, even though I'm an easy passenger and just fine, pretty much left alone. Vibe LOVED this, because we had a lot of them in to eat the pizza - it was way too much for us. LOL!

I didn't mean to start a debate or cause negative feelings about perceived "entitlement" or "class systems". I was just pondering what the concierge hosts would do. They already do a number of things that are not a DCL published concierge perk.

I know people don't like to think Disney does this, but they have always had "extra's" or private things that are only available for an additional (sometimes quite hefty) price. One of the most exclusive that jumps out at me is Club 33.

 

[genki3]

My two cents...

As this was an unofficial courtesy I think they should have just stopped doing it without any announcement. I mean look at what it gets them, people are going to complain no matter what, but now it's "why couldn't I have had more notice?" Since they didn't actually announce the service to begin with they should have ended it the same way, and people would have found out of the discontinuation through the same word of mouth (or text).

I thought it would be cool to have a photo mat done for my first cruise, but oh well, i'm over it. And realistically, will it be the children that are horribly disappointed that this is over or the parents. A lot of people don't appreciate a FREE GIFT for what it is and then complain that without the experience and the value of that experience is somehow lessened. Well if you paid thousands of dollars to go on a cruise and the absence free signatures ruins that, you might need to reevaluate your priorities.

For me, I never said it will RUIN my trip now that we don't get the signed items service. However, I think it is okay for me to feel disappointed that a service that was once provided will no longer be. I'm going on my 2nd cruise in less than 2 weeks and unfortunately our sailing will be the first that will have the discontinuation. I'm traveling with the rest of my kids that didn't go with me on the first cruise and I was hoping to get the signatures signed for them. Now I won't and that disappoints me. I'm not going to throw a fit and curse at Guest Services because that's just wrong. But I can feel slightly upset. Why can't I?! I don't understand why many people here feel the need to trash those of us who feel disappointed.

I get why a young child would cherish it, just not an adult.

On my last cruise, I had my toddler's travel size baby wipe holder signed with signatures. I doubt my toddler cares about it at all but I loved it. Every time I look at it, I'm reminded of my time on the cruise and it brings back fond memories that I will cherish.

Now....

All this being said, I agree that we can just write the signatures ourselves and I'm okay with this. But just being on the first sailing that will implement this discontinuation, after looking forward to getting some things signed for over a year...well it stings a bit.

 

[kel585]

Thank you for maintaining the magic and Disney integrity! It's what I expect from Disney cast members both present and former. And thank you for sharing what you are able to share!

No problem at all. I wouldn't have it any other way

 

[gumbypee]

I never understand why people don't "get" why some adults enjoy the magic just as much as kids. I grew up on Disney and I love it to this day. I don't casre someone in the back signed it - it is still "Mickey Mouse" autograph. It is enjoyable and magical to me. Sorry, can't make me feel bad about loving Disney. I kinda feel bad for the adults that don't "get" it.

 

[lbgraves]

My two cents...

As this was an unofficial courtesy I think they should have just stopped doing it without any announcement. I mean look at what it gets them, people are going to complain no matter what, but now it's "why couldn't I have had more notice?" Since they didn't actually announce the service to begin with they should have ended it the same way, and people would have found out of the discontinuation through the same word of mouth (or text).

I thought it would be cool to have a photo mat done for my first cruise, but oh well, i'm over it. And realistically, will it be the children that are horribly disappointed that this is over or the parents. A lot of people don't appreciate a FREE GIFT for what it is and then complain that without the experience and the value of that experience is somehow lessened. Well if you paid thousands of dollars to go on a cruise and the absence free signatures ruins that, you might need to reevaluate your priorities.

.... We were even a cruise were a woman wanted guest services to deliver her FE gifts. She had a headache. They did.

This is absurd!!!

I get why a young child would cherish it, just not an adult.

I still treasure every moment we shared with our kids while they were young at Disney, both at the parks and on the ship. As a parent, I cherish the memories, their eyes lighting up when they met the characters or got their autographs. I still get chills and tear up when we talk about our first cruise and DD3 became BFFs with Cinderella for the entire week. Now that they are older and have gone through their treasures, I have some saved in the office that still mean something to me when I see them because of the memories attached.

 

[C6PT7]

To start with, how does having a concierge team at your personal disposal mean that those in a lower class of cabin have a cheaper fare?
How does your more spacious cabin that could accommodate more lower class cabins mean a cheaper fare?

regarding the gates, I believe they do have them on the dream concierge lounge and cabin area ?
If I'm not mistaken they chose to not have them not he Fantasy. For some reason?

It doesn't exclude anyone from booking a concierge cabin. apart from those that may work equally if not harder than you to earn a wage, but thankfully you can afford the price. Others may not be able to and only afford to be able to stay in a deck 2 inside.
that doesn't mean they are a lesser person than you. they still paid to see and experience the same advertized disney cruise you did.
you paid more for your concierge team, your more spacious cabin, your verandah. not to be a superior person to anyone else.
Just my opinion.

@familyoffive,
I was courteous enough to reply to your questions.
I am interested in your views on my reply to them and your views.

 

[Happy100]

I am genuinely curious as to why? It not like it was signed by the actual Snow White but rather someone who plays Snow White (or whatever character it was) on-board a cruise ship.

What makes you happy and me happy are different. Of course I know this is not an actual autograph, I do not believe anyone does. It has to be with being a kid and Magic. Kids believe it is special and important to them as a child. They do believe in Magic unlike adults. As my son has aged, the Magic is going away for him. The realities of the world are touching him more everyday and right fully so. But I will never forget his smile when he used the signed pillow case at home for the first time. That is a memory I am very happy to have forever.

IMHO...this is just like most adults perpetuating the myth that there indeed is a Santa Claus (and others). Why do it, just tell them the truth, why sign Santa's name to packages....etc.

Hopefully your curiosity about why I would cherish it has been answered.

 

[declansdad]

What makes you happy and me happy are different. Of course I know this is not an actual autograph, I do not believe anyone does. It has to be with being a kid and Magic. Kids believe it is special and important to them as a child. They do believe in Magic unlike adults. As my son has aged, the Magic is going away for him. The realities of the world are touching him more everyday and right fully so. But I will never forget his smile when he used the signed pillow case at home for the first time. That is a memory I am very happy to have forever.

IMHO...this is just like most adults perpetuating the myth that there indeed is a Santa Claus (and others). Why do it, just tell them the truth, why sign Santa's name to packages....etc.

Hopefully your curiosity about why I would cherish it has been answered.

Thank you.

 

[Twinprincesses]

My thinking is it was a nice perk while it lasted I just think it got out of hand.

As to adults getting stuff signed, they are paying customers too. There were people complaining at WDW last time that there were adults in line taking up kids time with characters. I thought that was insane. We all pay to get in the parks or cruise if we want an autograph or photo so be it.

 

[undertheradar]

@familyoffive,
I was courteous enough to reply to your questions.
I am interested in your views on my reply to them and your views.

Basic economics explains how the concierge rates help keep the lowest categories at very low fares. Just do the math of having 2 people in a Cat. T versus 4 in the lowest rate inside stateroom. Include feeding and entertaining. Last I looked, everybody eats in the same restaurants and has access to the same shows.

As for the gates, they are not in use to restrict passengers going through the concierge decks. You do have to have concierge access to use the concierge lounge and the concierge sundeck.

I won't pay what DCL asks for a royal on the Dream class ships. I cannot justify the expense.

To give you an idea of background, our first cruise was on the Big Red Boat. We sailed with Mickey. This is where the basis for DCL was born. After Mickey stopped sailing, when DCL was announced, Bugs Bunny & pals took to the seas on the Big Red Boat. We were not as comfortable financially then as we are now, so a stateroom with a porthole was the best we could afford. I choose to book concierge, not for the service or the idea of being above the little people( this idea comes up when anyone sailing concierge mentions things they don't like or are confused when shore side concierge asks for requests). No, I book concierge for the added space. I book a Cat T or above because I want the multiple bathrooms, a dining area and the ability to enjoy MDR food in the privacy of my stateroom, the large verandah that my stateroom offers. When we sail out of Port Canaveral, I am outside on my verandah, sipping champagne and enjoying my All Hands On Deck cheese plate from room service. That is when my cruise begins and I don't even notice that I am surrounded by thousands of others enjoying the start of a DCL vacation.

 

[Twinprincesses]

I am genuinely curious as to why? It not like it was signed by the actual Snow White but rather someone who plays Snow White (or whatever character it was) on-board a cruise ship.

But the kids "think" it was signed by the characters and that is why it was so important to ppl. I get it but ppl need to understand it was a perk, it got out of hand and it is gone.

 

[C6PT7]

Basic economics explains how the concierge rates help keep the lowest categories at very low fares. Just do the math of having 2 people in a Cat. T versus 4 in the lowest rate inside stateroom. Include feeding and entertaining. Last I looked, everybody eats in the same restaurants and has access to the same shows.

As for the gates, they are not in use to restrict passengers going through the concierge decks. You do have to have concierge access to use the concierge lounge and the concierge sundeck.

I won't pay what DCL asks for a royal on the Dream class ships. I cannot justify the expense.

To give you an idea of background, our first cruise was on the Big Red Boat. We sailed with Mickey. This is where the basis for DCL was born. After Mickey stopped sailing, when DCL was announced, Bugs Bunny & pals took to the seas on the Big Red Boat. We were not as comfortable financially then as we are now, so a stateroom with a porthole was the best we could afford. I choose to book concierge, not for the service or the idea of being above the little people( this idea comes up when anyone sailing concierge mentions things they don't like or are confused when shore side concierge asks for requests). No, I book concierge for the added space. I book a Cat T or above because I want the multiple bathrooms, a dining area and the ability to enjoy MDR food in the privacy of my stateroom, the large verandah that my stateroom offers. When we sail out of Port Canaveral, I am outside on my verandah, sipping champagne and enjoying my All Hands On Deck cheese plate from room service. That is when my cruise begins and I don't even notice that I am surrounded by thousands of others enjoying the start of a DCL vacation.

Thank you for explaining your rationale.
That and you providing otherwise unaffordable accommodation for those that cannot afford a concierge large cabin. I'm sure there are many dcl cruisers out there that are so grateful to you for paying such a big premium just to co-pay their vacation on their behalf!

Or you could realize that you are paying a premium for the space that could be used for more cabins and that extra money is going into dcl profits, not subsidising others?
You book not for the service, but you want the ability to dine in private?
So basically you book for the larger cabin and to be away from other people. And that is fine. I just do not get your opinion that you are subsiding everyone else on board, especially just because you personally only sail with two people in that 4 birth cabin.
If it makes you feel better that you are giving something back to those in a lower class cabin, more power to you.

Also thanks for the history lesson of dcl. I have already read it.

 

[JJZMgailey]

I never understand why people don't "get" why some adults enjoy the magic just as much as kids. I grew up on Disney and I love it to this day. I don't care someone in the back signed it - it is still "Mickey Mouse" autograph. It is enjoyable and magical to me. Sorry, can't make me feel bad about loving Disney. I kinda feel bad for the adults that don't "get" it.

Well, I for one am not too grown up to admit that I believe in magic!

I've never been on a cruise, so I can't say that I've experienced this 'Mickey Mail' that's being discontinued, but I'm sad for those of you who will miss it. Walt Disney did always say that he wanted things to keep changing and growing, so it should be fun to see what changes will come!

 

[Bella29]

I cannot say I agree with the perk system based upon levels. It is too classist and creates more divides than those that already exist between the concierge pax and those that are not.

If they do reintroduce it at some stage, I think your suggestion of $25 per item and only one item per cabin is a must.
And $20 of that charge donated to a designated children charity, such as Make A Wish.

There is a difference between offering it as a perk based upon castaway levels -- which are equal for everyone who has cruised X number of times, whether they were in an inside cabin or the Walt suite, and offering a perk for those who cruise concierge. My suggestion was to offer to gold/platinum instead of concierge as someone mentioned previously. However IMO neither is classist or creates divides. If I found the concierge benefits to be worth the extra money, I would pay it - and probably cruise less often. I'd rather cruise more often instead. It's no more classist than having different room categories for different prices, or only letting paying customers on to the ship. It's available for sale to those who can and want to buy it.

BUT my point was that it would be a nice benefit to add to the (currently very weak) list of repeat cruiser benefits.

Donation to charity... not sure I see the connection there? Disney has to pay for the employees to do the signing and handle the logistics.

 

[Twinprincesses]

I think there is nothing wrong with offering this service for $20-$25 per item, that would limit people to what they really want signed. I guess my blank anchor will just stay blank.

 

[gumbypee]

to be fair, i have seen one of the famous "anchors". it was very cute. not that big and cumbersome looking, just a little craft thing.