Disney Magic - Just Boarded!!!

[jd99]

Hey Kevin - just had a chance to catch up on the post, and I have to say that you've handled this well. You can tell by the way you addressed the issue with DCL that you're a seasoned traveler, and I bet they appreciate your honesty as well as your level-headedness.

Congrats on the new room, and I'm really glad everything worked out for you so that you can fully enjoy your cruise now! Thanks for the updates!

Ditto for me. Thanks so much for the update. Glad that dcl took care of you and that they are doing what we all expect - which is their best to make things right.

 

[tink too]

Thanks for the informative post, Kevin.

We sailed the Magic for the first time on the WB Repo, and granted we had nothing to "compare" to, but we were pleased with our stateroom. Yes, the furniture had minor scratches here and there, but as I have found over the years, many folks don't treat hotels in the same manner as they would their own homes. I think they gave the stateroom a lived-in feel - it doesn't bother us at all. However, as you know the hotel business, I'm sure you didn't make irrational complaints (especially since management agreed with you) and I'm glad DCL hooked you up with better accommodation.

As for the pools, that's how they look when they are in need of a little chlorine. They were not necessarily "dirty" but certainly looked that way. It is a shame DCL didn't have time to rectify them before letting guests board, but at least they've sorted them out now.

 

[goofyforlife]

I am hoping that I will read some good reviews before I have to make my final payment.

ok here's some good news....

We stayed in 5520 on the Repo. (I that room)

As i took my first shower before dinner, i noticed that the water didn't drain real well. (This happens at our house too when too much hair gets in the drains.)

I mentioned this to our cabin person the next day and it was taken care of before we came back to our room after lunch. Drains were fine afterwards...

We also had one flourescent bulb that decided to flicker on/off. (Like what happens usually before they go out) They replaced that right away after a phone call too.

GS even called to ask us how our room was doing and if we noticed anything else a few times. I didn't have any problems with GS or housekeeping.

I loved our bed. (Firm, yet squishy too) I loved the soft cotton sheets.

After the cruise we checked into OKW for one night and I didn't like the bed there (too hard) and the sheets weren't as soft.

Does that help?

 

[mmouse37]

So how are the pools looking now??? I was really looking forward to enjoying some relaxing time at the adult pool with a adult beverage sitting on cushy lounger but I guess that dream is gone hu? just plastic straps still

I ask as I pack for our first Disney Cruise on Sat.

I noticed your pic in your siggy.....Twilight series???? If so I just read the first two books....going out to buy the third to take on our cruise on the 11th!!!

MJ

 

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

First, Kevin, thanks so much for updating us! I too, though the TV would have been put on the wall next to the cabinet, but hey, I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth, they updated the TVs and essentially made them bigger. Yeah us!

Second, love the "Winnie the Pooh cleaning the pool" statement. I just spit my coke out on the screen as I was reading it (darn it, my new laptop too!!)

Glad they upgraded you to make you more comfortable. Maybe those who are now down on the DCL would feel better if there were updated pictures of the new and improved rooms, and status of the pools? When you get time, but it might help! Hate to pull you away from your vacation to do that though, so I'm sure when you get back would be good too!

And for those in a complete panic because the pool was dirty, come on folks! As one of the PP stated, one pool had been like that when they boarded, and it was sparkling clean within hours. Its the Magic that comes with chlorine and a filtration system. Are people seriously upset about booking a cruise days or even weeks (or months!) from now because of a picture of a pool that is green? Do you really think DCL would just let the pool stay green and not have it fixed not only before the end of this cruise, but definately before the next one Saturday!? We have been on the cruise before, and they drained the Goofy pool completely due to high seas one day. It was empty before you knew it (OK, some of that may have had to do with the "wave pool" the Goofy pool had become!) but one things settled down, the pool was refilled, clean and heated and ready for use!

I agree you can nitpick if you are paying a premium price, but wait until you get on board to decide if its unacceptable or not! Kevin's room was sub-standard, DCL agreed and he was moved. What more did they need to do that would satisfy everyone?

After the week I've had at work, I'd take a lifeboat on the Magic right now. As they say, "a bad day on the Magic still beats a good day home at work!"

Thanks for taking the time Kevin. I look forward to hearing more details about the trip. Like what was your Castaway Club gift? Did they have anything new and exciting at the shops? And how has the food been? Hope the rest of your sailing is Magical!

 

[RanCan]

I noticed your pic in your siggy.....Twilight series???? If so I just read the first two books....going out to buy the third to take on our cruise on the 11th!!!

MJ

Hi MJ!! I'm just finishing the third book!! I will probably bring the fourth on our cruise!!!

 

[epcotrulz]

If I am not mistaken that was already done. When we were on the Mexican Riviera Cruise they had the greatest loungers outside the Cove Cafe. Or are you talking pool loungers? I've never been on the Wonder so I have no point of comparison.

I was asking about the pool loungers -- on the Wonder they are teak with cushions -- very comfy! I was hoping they were going to upgrade to those on the Magic.

It sounds like they were going to?

Indulgence and Relaxation
Quiet Cove, the serene pool retreat reserved for the enjoyment of adults, will undergo a makeover including upgrades to Cove Café, the pool and the deck area. Cove Café, the ship’s sophisticated coffee lounge, will incorporate a new seating area with plush, comfortable chairs providing the perfect venue to relax while sipping a cup of gourmet coffee. Meanwhile, the adult pool will be outfitted with soothing, cascading waterfalls from the two hot tubs. Teak deck and lounge chairs with plush cushions will line the pool, creating an inviting, stylish ambiance in line with the Vista Spa and Salon.

 

[My4PhillyGirls]

Has anyone heard if there is an upgrade to the screens in Animator Palate I thought it was to be state of the art once again after this dry dock.

Joe

 

[mmouse37]

Hi MJ!! I'm just finishing the third book!! I will probably bring the fourth on our cruise!!!

Maybe we should start another cruise book thread!!! Knowing me I will probably read the third before the cruise and then buy the fourth to take with me. I read the first one in 24 hours!!! Didn't get much else done, though!!!

 

[Zandy595]

First, Kevin, thanks so much for updating us! I too, though the TV would have been put on the wall next to the cabinet, but hey, I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth, they updated the TVs and essentially made them bigger. Yeah us!

Second, love the "Winnie the Pooh cleaning the pool" statement. I just spit my coke out on the screen as I was reading it (darn it, my new laptop too!!)

Glad they upgraded you to make you more comfortable. Maybe those who are now down on the DCL would feel better if there were updated pictures of the new and improved rooms, and status of the pools? When you get time, but it might help! Hate to pull you away from your vacation to do that though, so I'm sure when you get back would be good too!

And for those in a complete panic because the pool was dirty, come on folks! As one of the PP stated, one pool had been like that when they boarded, and it was sparkling clean within hours. Its the Magic that comes with chlorine and a filtration system. Are people seriously upset about booking a cruise days or even weeks (or months!) from now because of a picture of a pool that is green? Do you really think DCL would just let the pool stay green and not have it fixed not only before the end of this cruise, but definately before the next one Saturday!? We have been on the cruise before, and they drained the Goofy pool completely due to high seas one day. It was empty before you knew it (OK, some of that may have had to do with the "wave pool" the Goofy pool had become!) but one things settled down, the pool was refilled, clean and heated and ready for use!

I agree you can nitpick if you are paying a premium price, but wait until you get on board to decide if its unacceptable or not! Kevin's room was sub-standard, DCL agreed and he was moved. What more did they need to do that would satisfy everyone?

After the week I've had at work, I'd take a lifeboat on the Magic right now. As they say, "a bad day on the Magic still beats a good day home at work!"

Thanks for taking the time Kevin. I look forward to hearing more details about the trip. Like what was your Castaway Club gift? Did they have anything new and exciting at the shops? And how has the food been? Hope the rest of your sailing is Magical!

Kevin posted pictures of all three pools looking pretty gross, not just one.

 

[EPCOT_VA]

I wonder what made the Mickey pool brown then.

This is just a guess, but I would suspect that the water had been left stagnant in the resevoir / pipes, and just like the toilets, the first water to come out was brown. Once they cycle through a bit, and get water that has recently gone through the filters and purification process, it should go away. (Just like flushing the toilet a couple of times.)

I have seen them use chemicals to clean their pool. I have not seen it turn green. I would be a bit suspicious of that answer.

EPCOT_VA

 

[Im_A_Princess]

Kevin posted pictures of all three pools looking pretty gross, not just one.

Still...EWWWWWW!
I am glad they "fixed" them.
Are they ALL up and running now?
They should NEVER have been in that condition when guests boarded.
They were in PC for what 2 days before the guests boarded on Wed.?

 

[fishined57]

I am glad to see that things are looking better. And I agree with everyones comments, Disney does look out for its customers.
Kevin, thanks for taking your time to post and keep us updated!!

I have 2 rooms on the Magic, 2542 and 2544, sailing Oct 4, 2008. I checked my reservation about 5 minutes ago and we're all still in the same rooms, so I'm guessing that all is well. I was a concerned when first I saw your pics but, now I'm much relieved that things are looking better. Shoot, I'll be cruising in 8 days and away from all the problems on the mainland, playing with the kids, relaxing, sipping a cold drink, looking out over the ocean......... Okay, it's easy to get caught up in the moment.
Kevin, all in all it seems Disney stepped up to the plate for you and that's what seperates them from the other companies. I hope you had a good trip and made lots of memories!!
Take Care,
Ed

 

[o4me2playn]

First, Kevin, thanks so much for updating us! I too, though the TV would have been put on the wall next to the cabinet, but hey, I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth, they updated the TVs and essentially made them bigger. Yeah us!

Second, love the "Winnie the Pooh cleaning the pool" statement. I just spit my coke out on the screen as I was reading it (darn it, my new laptop too!!)

Glad they upgraded you to make you more comfortable. Maybe those who are now down on the DCL would feel better if there were updated pictures of the new and improved rooms, and status of the pools? When you get time, but it might help! Hate to pull you away from your vacation to do that though, so I'm sure when you get back would be good too!

And for those in a complete panic because the pool was dirty, come on folks! As one of the PP stated, one pool had been like that when they boarded, and it was sparkling clean within hours. Its the Magic that comes with chlorine and a filtration system. Are people seriously upset about booking a cruise days or even weeks (or months!) from now because of a picture of a pool that is green? Do you really think DCL would just let the pool stay green and not have it fixed not only before the end of this cruise, but definately before the next one Saturday!? We have been on the cruise before, and they drained the Goofy pool completely due to high seas one day. It was empty before you knew it (OK, some of that may have had to do with the "wave pool" the Goofy pool had become!) but one things settled down, the pool was refilled, clean and heated and ready for use!

I agree you can nitpick if you are paying a premium price, but wait until you get on board to decide if its unacceptable or not! Kevin's room was sub-standard, DCL agreed and he was moved. What more did they need to do that would satisfy everyone?

After the week I've had at work, I'd take a lifeboat on the Magic right now. As they say, "a bad day on the Magic still beats a good day home at work!"

Thanks for taking the time Kevin. I look forward to hearing more details about the trip. Like what was your Castaway Club gift? Did they have anything new and exciting at the shops? And how has the food been? Hope the rest of your sailing is Magical!

Well Said!!! BTW - my week sounds like your week and I would have no problem being on the ship right now - even with saggy mattresses & green pools - just the thought of escaping to a Magical Place sounds PERFECT to me!

 

[gometros]

Kevin posted pictures of all three pools looking pretty gross, not just one.

Still, one pool or three, do you really think that DCL would leave it in that state for any period of time longer than they had to?

 

[lvstitch]

First, Kevin, thanks so much for updating us! I too, though the TV would have been put on the wall next to the cabinet, but hey, I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth, they updated the TVs and essentially made them bigger. Yeah us!

Second, love the "Winnie the Pooh cleaning the pool" statement. I just spit my coke out on the screen as I was reading it (darn it, my new laptop too!!)

Glad they upgraded you to make you more comfortable. Maybe those who are now down on the DCL would feel better if there were updated pictures of the new and improved rooms, and status of the pools? When you get time, but it might help! Hate to pull you away from your vacation to do that though, so I'm sure when you get back would be good too!

And for those in a complete panic because the pool was dirty, come on folks! As one of the PP stated, one pool had been like that when they boarded, and it was sparkling clean within hours. Its the Magic that comes with chlorine and a filtration system. Are people seriously upset about booking a cruise days or even weeks (or months!) from now because of a picture of a pool that is green? Do you really think DCL would just let the pool stay green and not have it fixed not only before the end of this cruise, but definately before the next one Saturday!? We have been on the cruise before, and they drained the Goofy pool completely due to high seas one day. It was empty before you knew it (OK, some of that may have had to do with the "wave pool" the Goofy pool had become!) but one things settled down, the pool was refilled, clean and heated and ready for use!

I agree you can nitpick if you are paying a premium price, but wait until you get on board to decide if its unacceptable or not! Kevin's room was sub-standard, DCL agreed and he was moved. What more did they need to do that would satisfy everyone?

After the week I've had at work, I'd take a lifeboat on the Magic right now. As they say, "a bad day on the Magic still beats a good day home at work!"

Thanks for taking the time Kevin. I look forward to hearing more details about the trip. Like what was your Castaway Club gift? Did they have anything new and exciting at the shops? And how has the food been? Hope the rest of your sailing is Magical!

 

[lvstitch]

I noticed your pic in your siggy.....Twilight series???? If so I just read the first two books....going out to buy the third to take on our cruise on the 11th!!!

MJ

Hi MJ!! I'm just finishing the third book!! I will probably bring the fourth on our cruise!!!

Maybe we should start another cruise book thread!!! Knowing me I will probably read the third before the cruise and then buy the fourth to take with me. I read the first one in 24 hours!!! Didn't get much else done, though!!!

I am completely obessed with these book too. I have read all of them including the one on Stephanie Meyers' web site called Midnight Sun. It's Edward's version of Twilight. I am going to read Twilight again before the movie comes out in November.

 

[RLccweems]

I am completely obessed with these book too. I have read all of them including the one on Stephanie Meyers' web site called Midnight Sun. It's Edward's version of Twilight. I am going to read Twilight again before the movie comes out in November.

I read this as well....I read them after seeing lots of the high school kids with them in their arms. I thought I want to read this and see what's it's all about. And I loved it! I read the first book in eight hours! And the rest of the other books that same week. Needless to say i didn't get anything done that week around the house. I can't wait for the movie to come out!!

 

[mmouse37]

We can have a Stephanie Meyers fan club on the Dis!!!

MJ

 

[ckg]

I am glad to see that things are looking better. And I agree with everyones comments, Disney does look out for its customers.
Kevin, thanks for taking your time to post and keep us updated!!

Ed

I definitely agree with this. I am not a Disney nut as my wife's family is but I do enjoy the consistent excellence that Disney maintains in all aspect of it's businesses to ensure the brand is excellent wherever that name is.

In this day and age where banks, cell phone carriers and just about every business you deal with has disclaimers and contracts that are designed so the they are protected to the hilt from every possible thing it is a relief that while Disney is no different in limiting their liability, in practice Disney does the right thing where reasonable 99% of the time.

From the parks to DCL to toys the norm is an excellent experience. When I cruised with them during the hurricanes of '04 I remember how DCL put us up the night before at Port Orleans (free of charge) and transported us to Ft Lauderdale (free of charge) besides the extra on board credit and huge discount off a future cruise (besides our money back for the days they could not sale). We did not even have a tranportation arrangement with them prior to the storm ... we were going to drive to the port and we were on a discounted rate.

What did they owe us in a fair is fair world ... the days we did not sale. What did they legally owe us ... nothing as weather events are not their responsibility in the cruise contract (the norm for the industry). Disney is the type of company that a positive experience is the norm, the consumer pays a premium (like all good brands should rightfully charge) and the brand delivers a consistently "magical" experience for lack of a better term everywhere it is .

I'll be cruising with them again today for the double dip. No worries here.