Disney Magic lack of "Pixie dust"

[JessicasMom]

We were on the WBTA this year (5 people, two cabins on decks 2 and 8) and had a wonderful time. DH and I had also done last year's EBTA.

No rose colored glasses here. We were fortunate to have truly excellent servers, both personable and efficient, as well as great tablemates. Yes, we had requested to dine alone, which didn't happen, but it worked out better in the end. The entertainment on the ship was not as good as I would have hoped, but generally enjoyable. Magicians are not my favorite form of entertainment; John Charles seemed quite self-absorbed. The hypnotist was fun (my daughter was a "subject"), but we saw his same basic show last year. Charo was an unexpected pleasure. We never had a bad meal, but the soups and salads were somewhat less-than-inspired. Desserts were adequate. My biggest food disappointment was the soggy crab claws at brunch in Palo. Dinner in Palo was excellent!

The ship looked fine, EXCEPT for the carpets, which were stained and wet in many areas. DH was truly bothered by the condition of the carpet by the aft elevators on deck 8.

People are people, wherever they are. Those that expect life to revolve around their families will always be demanding and, at times, obnoxious. Others are a delight to be around, simply because of their positive and generous attitudes. It takes all kinds....and they were all aboard . There were definitely some interesting characters on this trip, which just added to the atmosphere. Some of the CMs were exceptional, others just seemed to be doing their job. Peter was "ok".

I found Guest Services to be less friendly than last year; not sure why. Not unfriendly, just "blah".

I suppose the biggest indicator of our satisfaction level is the fact we didn't bother to re-book onboard. Not because we didn't enjoy this cruise; just because there are so many other interesting options out there.

 

[extechie rbd/wdt]

[SNIP] I suppose the biggest indicator of our satisfaction level is the fact we didn't bother to re-book onboard. Not because we didn't enjoy this cruise; just because there are so many other interesting options out there.

Now that is the biggest and most important and telling comment IMO.
Definately sounds like the Magic management and crew need to step up their game, and shake thing's up a bit.

Thanks for the review!

Ex Techie

 

[Iceman93]

Wow. Harsh. Are you jealous?? Sure sounds like it!! We've never experienced anything like that......oh my.....Right?? We wear our Silver lanyards now for the same reason, and will wear our Gold ones next June (and hopefully Platinum after that). It's where we put our Room Keys - we don't carry purses or wallets on a cruise because we don't need to!!! I love my lanyard - no matter the status

No, not jealous. I compare it to my Armani tux, which was quite an expensive investment. I got it and wear it because it is high-quality, looks good on me, and I know it will last. But I don't go around showing off the label or asking folks all the time how much they like my Armani tux. Some women like to use purses with gaudy logos all over them just to show off that they bought an expensive purse (and the funniest are the fake ones), while others simply care about quality and don't give a hoot about other's opinions of them based on what they buy.

I carried my key card in my pocket all cruise, and never yearned for a lanyard. On my next Disney cruise I will likely not even take a silver lanyard at check-in because I just don't think I'd ever use it.

I also compare my experience to that on HAL, where they have given folks medals and lapel pins to commermorate various numbers of days at sea or levels in their loyalty program. While I will wear my "bling" to events specifically for loyalty program guests, I don't spend the entire cruise showing off how amazing I am to have some of the good swag. And I could see Castaway Club members wearing their lanyard at check-in or to Castaway Club events, but it just came across as pretentious the way some of the folks on board carried themselves (if you've ever seen the movie "Bean" where he flashes his first-class plane ticket to other boarding passengers you'll know what I mean).

 

[Jennyontheblock]

Yikes, based on the comments I am now thinking our holiday cruise may be spent walking on soggy carpet, smelling a funky mildew and avoiding silver and Gold lanyard wearing snobs! Haha. Thankful this will be our first DCL cruise, so no set expectations. Have been on Carnival, Crystal and HAL so we understand that each cruise line will have it's positives and negatives. Just excited to be someplace tropical in the dead of winter and hoping the Christmas Spirit fills the air......and not mildew.lol

 

[pxlbarrel]

No, not jealous. I compare it to my Armani tux, which was quite an expensive investment. I got it and wear it because it is high-quality, looks good on me, and I know it will last. But I don't go around showing off the label or asking folks all the time how much they like my Armani tux. Some women like to use purses with gaudy logos all over them just to show off that they bought an expensive purse (and the funniest are the fake ones), while others simply care about quality and don't give a hoot about other's opinions of them based on what they buy.

I carried my key card in my pocket all cruise, and never yearned for a lanyard. On my next Disney cruise I will likely not even take a silver lanyard at check-in because I just don't think I'd ever use it.

I also compare my experience to that on HAL, where they have given folks medals and lapel pins to commermorate various numbers of days at sea or levels in their loyalty program. While I will wear my "bling" to events specifically for loyalty program guests, I don't spend the entire cruise showing off how amazing I am to have some of the good swag. And I could see Castaway Club members wearing their lanyard at check-in or to Castaway Club events, but it just came across as pretentious the way some of the folks on board carried themselves (if you've ever seen the movie "Bean" where he flashes his first-class plane ticket to other boarding passengers you'll know what I mean).

You have got to be kidding me. You're actually criticizing people for carrying their key card in a lanyard provided to them by the cruise line? I was thrilled to get my silver lanyard because I loved not having to worry about the card falling out of my pocket and it was so much easier than storing it in my wallet. The only time it wasn't in the lanyard was when we were on excursions. If I'm lucky enough to get a gold or plantinum lanyard some day, I won't be wearing it to "show off" but because it's a rather convenient way of hanging onto the key card.

I don't "yearn" for a lanyard. I like using it though. I thought I'd heard it all but I was mistaken.

 

[sabrecmc]

We were on the Magic in May 2010 for a 10 night Med cruise. It was amazing! We had the best time. However, our stateroom (8510) carpet was damp in the living room area when we arrived. We reported it to our stateroom hostess, who got a fan in no time and it dried with no further issue. I don't expect perfection...its more important to me how things are dealt with. In this case, our problem was solved and both the stateroom hostess and her supervisor followed up to make sure it was solved. But, I had to tell them what the problem was first...they wear shoes, after all, and it wasn't until I took off my shoes that I even noticed the issue. Anyway, it was handled well and that's what really matters to me.

We'll be back on the Magic in NYC this July. Looking forward to it!

 

[princessTi]

Just my two cents regarding the PP (Iceman93)comments....I think what he said was actually very well said in the context of his opinion and should not be taken personally by individuals who are not "some of those folks on board" who carried themselves that way.

As my grandmother would say...if it is not applicable to your situation...throw it out!

On another note, I am also a first time Disney and Disney Magic cruiser and am ready to have the time of my life in November....mold, rudeness, lanyard overload and all!

 

[Mickeys Carol]

It was both humorous and sad to see all the people walking around with their gold and platinum lanyards (seriously? for the whole two weeks?)

My husband and 2 friends will be on our 2nd DCL Cruise to the Eastern Carribean on Oct 22nd. We cannot wait to get our Silver Lanyards. Yes, we will wear them the entire time so we can keep track of our room key. It will not be bragging but a convient way to keep our room key close to us. I see nothing "sad" about that. On our first cruise we were constantly trying to keep up with our room key and could not wait to get a lanyard. Once we become gold members, we will wear those too, proudly, not bragging. It is not much, just a small token from DCL CC Members.

 

[Iceman93]

Thank you, princessTi, for understanding what I was trying to say. It's not the lanyard, per se, but the attitude of the wearer. And I just noticed more of the bad behavior and DYKWIA attitudes from the gold and platinum lanyard-wearers.

For those who love to wear the lanyards, where do you keep your car keys, credit cards, driver's license, etc. when not on a cruise? And why do you find wearing your key around your neck to be a convenient option? Sometimes I visit facilities that require wearing identification like this and I find it to be a pain--the card bounces around while you walk, for instance. Isn't keeping the card in a pocket a superior solution (for a cruise, not a facility where you have to visually display identification)?

 

[Disneyfalcon]

Thank you, princessTi, for understanding what I was trying to say. It's not the lanyard, per se, but the attitude of the wearer. And I just noticed more of the bad behavior and DYKWIA attitudes from the gold and platinum lanyard-wearers.

For those who love to wear the lanyards, where do you keep your car keys, credit cards, driver's license, etc. when not on a cruise? And why do you find wearing your key around your neck to be a convenient option? Sometimes I visit facilities that require wearing identification like this and I find it to be a pain--the card bounces around while you walk, for instance. Isn't keeping the card in a pocket a superior solution (for a cruise, not a facility where you have to visually display identification)?

For a man, yes. For a woman, no! I never keep cards in my pocket, often my pockets are just for show and pretty much useless. Don't blame me, blame women's clothes designers.

When I am out of my house, I carry a purse for keys, cards and what not. When I'm on a cruise, you couldn't pay me to carry around a purse. All I need is that Key to the World card and those lanyards are perfect.

I wear it all week and I could care less what color it is. In fact I send my clients who have never cruised before some agency lanyards to use on the cruise. That's how convenient they are to me.

 

[kathi]

You have got to be kidding me. You're actually criticizing people for carrying their key card in a lanyard provided to them by the cruise line? I was thrilled to get my silver lanyard because I loved not having to worry about the card falling out of my pocket and it was so much easier than storing it in my wallet. The only time it wasn't in the lanyard was when we were on excursions. If I'm lucky enough to get a gold or plantinum lanyard some day, I won't be wearing it to "show off" but because it's a rather convenient way of hanging onto the key card.

I don't "yearn" for a lanyard. I like using it though. I thought I'd heard it all but I was mistaken.

Thank you - I didn't want to have to say it. We don't ALL HAVE POCKETS.

Maybe I should just use a lanyard from one of my work conferences so I do not offend - oh but wait, then I will just be showing off that I have a gold key card rather than a silver. Maybe I should cancel my concierge reservation so I have the same color card as everyone else to be less offensive.

 

[PrincessTrisha]

Thank you, princessTi, for understanding what I was trying to say. It's not the lanyard, per se, but the attitude of the wearer. And I just noticed more of the bad behavior and DYKWIA attitudes from the gold and platinum lanyard-wearers.

For those who love to wear the lanyards, where do you keep your car keys, credit cards, driver's license, etc. when not on a cruise? And why do you find wearing your key around your neck to be a convenient option? Sometimes I visit facilities that require wearing identification like this and I find it to be a pain--the card bounces around while you walk, for instance. Isn't keeping the card in a pocket a superior solution (for a cruise, not a facility where you have to visually display identification)?

I wear a lanyard everyday to work so I'm very used to it and don't find it to be a pain at all. On the cruise I do the same.

I find it convenient and it keeps my card in a visual place.

I don't find using a pocket a "superior solution". My dad kept his in his pocket and lost his card (meaning we ALL had to have our cards replaced); I kept mine in the lanyard around my neck and never lost it.....

And why would you expect people not to use something that DCL gives them?

I think some people look for elitism (just like others look for kids behaving badly, drunks, inappropriate clothing, etc).

 

[Empress Room]

There is a reason why DCL has a special reception for Platinum and Gold members: they are the demographic that Disney understands has spent plenty of their financial resources over the years and the demographic that DCL most has to try to keep pleasing.

We wear our Platinum lanyards as much as possible not because we are "bragging" or otherwise showing off; rather, we have found that crew members make it a point to single us out and talk with us about the ship, future cruise itineraries and general feedback on the experience. Moreover, on more than one occasion, we have received a free perk, whether it be a free drink at poolside or a pin or memento.

If you have 'em, wear 'em. Pixie dust will come your way!

 

[ragdoll]

Not bragging, just saying. I am finding this thread extremely entertaining.

I have never worn nor will ever wear a lanyard. Why? Because I find them annoying. I also find it annoying to carry around a purse. That is why I wear...are you ready for this...a fanny pack! Yes, that is me slumming with first time cruisers.

 

[Mickeys Carol]

Thank you, princessTi, for understanding what I was trying to say. It's not the lanyard, per se, but the attitude of the wearer. And I just noticed more of the bad behavior and DYKWIA attitudes from the gold and platinum lanyard-wearers.

For those who love to wear the lanyards, where do you keep your car keys, credit cards, driver's license, etc. when not on a cruise? And why do you find wearing your key around your neck to be a convenient option? Sometimes I visit facilities that require wearing identification like this and I find it to be a pain--the card bounces around while you walk, for instance. Isn't keeping the card in a pocket a superior solution (for a cruise, not a facility where you have to visually display identification)?

I keep everything in the safe in my room except for my room key. I am afraid of it falling out of my pocket, therefore, I think a landyard will work great. I guess it is a matter of what you are comfortable with. A decision that only you can make for yourself. Just have fun!!

 

[pxlbarrel]

Not bragging, just saying. I am finding this thread extremely entertaining.

I have never worn nor will ever wear a lanyard. Why? Because I find them annoying. I also find it annoying to carry around a purse. That is why I wear...are you ready for this...a fanny pack! Yes, that is me slumming with first time cruisers.

This topic has veered waaaay off course but I'll continue to contribute to it's waywardness. LOL I wear a fanny pack all the time (I like my hands free...shoot me. hahaha) ... except I do enjoy being fanny packless when I'm wandering around the ship. I don't particularly like lounging on Deck 4 with my fanny pack hanging on and then if I take it off, I might forget it.

I could put the key in my pocket but sometimes the pocket is too shallow and it'll fall out after I've been ... lounging on Deck 4 (I love deck 4 ). Or maybe I'm wearing shorts or pants without pockets?

Iceman's comments has veered from people bragging about their Castaway Club membership to people who "love" to wear lanyards. I don't "love" to wear the lanyard. It's a lanyard ... I don't "love" it. Again, it's convenient to me and to others who wear it. My dad and I wore it while my brother and mother chose not to. Guess who's card kept being used for character photos? LOL Yup...mine was pulled out a lot faster than my brother's who fumbled around looking for it.

 

[lmhall2000]

For those who love to wear the lanyards, where do you keep your car keys, credit cards, driver's license, etc. when not on a cruise? And why do you find wearing your key around your neck to be a convenient option? Sometimes I visit facilities that require wearing identification like this and I find it to be a pain--the card bounces around while you walk, for instance. Isn't keeping the card in a pocket a superior solution (for a cruise, not a facility where you have to visually display identification)?

First, never would say I "love" wearing my lanyard..just as much as I say I 'love' wearing my running shoes...I'm practical..as a silver or any other color repeat cruiser, they are free! It is highly convenient! Half my clothes do not have pockets, if they do, I'll sit on a lounge chair and enjoy the view and oila my room card falls out! (has happened at hotels in the past). So, no, your superior solution is not a good one. Plus these lanyards have or at least the ones we've had have zip lock closure...so your room card and all your charging privileges are much more secure. We've traveled abroad often and the first thing they'll tell you is not to put a credit card in your pocket...too many things can happen. We are constantly running back and forth to our rooms, so it is easier and more convenient to have our room keys in our lanyards..each of our kids wear a lanyard as well...
My son lost an Arcade card because it fell out of his pocket as he played a seated game...someone picked it up and used all $50 on it, he was heartbroken...so your superior solution has some problems..I see no problems with anyone wearing a lanyard if they so choose.

 

[Gina]

DS and I just wear our pin lanyards, which always have card-holders on them anyway. Unless we're going to a pool onboard, then we just toss our cards in a sea safe.

As far as the original post goes, I realized that whenever there is a bunch more complaints about the Magic, it is always for a TA sailing. I have no idea why -- I've never done a TA -- this is just an observation over the past several years for as long as they have been doing the TA sailings. It doesn't make sense as far as the ship condition, but maybe they have fewer maintenance staff onboard for those sailings? Different wait and guest services staff?

It's definitely odd that those sailings seem to have to many more complaints! (And I'm not at all saying that the complaints are unjustified -- I just find it interesting that the volume always seems to go up for TA sailings.)

 

[WilliamK99]

DS and I just wear our pin lanyards, which always have card-holders on them anyway. Unless we're going to a pool onboard, then we just toss our cards in a sea safe.

As far as the original post goes, I realized that whenever there is a bunch more complaints about the Magic, it is always for a TA sailing. I have no idea why -- I've never done a TA -- this is just an observation over the past several years for as long as they have been doing the TA sailings. It doesn't make sense as far as the ship condition, but maybe they have fewer maintenance staff onboard for those sailings? Different wait and guest services staff?

It's definitely odd that those sailings seem to have to many more complaints! (And I'm not at all saying that the complaints are unjustified -- I just find it interesting that the volume always seems to go up for TA sailings.)

There are some repairs that can't be done while on the open seas, I don't think they want CMs climbing stacks or hanging off side of the ship while crossing the Atlantic. The fact that there are 8 sea days during the Transatlantic means that some normal maintenance probably doesn't get done. Coupled with the fact that the majority of the ports that the Magic visited are ones that they only visit occasionally, meaning that their normal maintenance POC's at the ports might not be available.

To sum it up, you probably see more disrepair on the TA solely because of the fact that the guests spend so much time on the ship coupled with the fact that some repairs can't be made while in the middle of the ocean.

 

[sabrecmc]

To sum it up, you probably see more disrepair on the TA solely because of the fact that the guests spend so much time on the ship coupled with the fact that some repairs can't be made while in the middle of the ocean.

That makes a lot of sense. Plus, I'm sure with 8 days on the ship, you really have time to notice things that you might overlook or not really find to be an issue on a 3 or 4-night cruise where you're in and out of port.

I love my gold lanyard, yes I do!!!