Griping about the cutbacks

[DMMarla07860]

I reason keep cruising DCL and will keep cruising DCL is not because of pirate night bandanas, not because of food, but because of the awesome people I have met on board that remember me everytime I go back. People from the cruise staff like DJ Dan, Pikey, Trevor, Tisa, etc.

 

[BobandLee]

Sure, if you're comparing PARKS, but if you are comparing cruise lines, there are plenty of other cruise ships that are family oriented that are newer ships with lots more bells and whistles (rock climbing, ice rinks, bowling alley, etc.) AND cost less. So Disney should be careful.

You are right. There are other family oriented cruises. And the offer bells and whistles. And they cost less. BUT, they are not Disney and they do not offer the service that DCL provides.

Plain and simple.
You want to sail cheap. Don't do Disney.
You want to climb rocks and skate. Don't do Disney.
You don't care about good service. Don't do Disney.

Me, I will continue to.

 

[kaykels]

Just as some OT constructive criticism. I don't have any issue with complaints about cutbacks... some of them I agree with. I'm not sure about others, but it always bugs me when people try to justify their opinion by saying they go to Disney alot or spend a lot of money there, etc. Your opinion is your opinion... there is no need to justify it with the "I go there a lot". If you went there more or less, it doesn't give you less or more right to complain.

The only reason for stating that is because I have a level of comparison. I've been there many times and have come to expect certain things. A first timer wouldn't even notice the cutbacks because there is no point of reference. I'm a disney "pro", of sorts. That's all. Doesn't mean I'm any more entitled than the next guy.

 

[TDC Nala]

The Pubmaster is also another victim of the economy. That position is no longer.

I wasn't sure anyone else would notice that there was no pubmaster.

There was also no activities planned in the pub with the exception of some half-hearted Wii games. Not the fault of the cruise staff.

 

[TDC Nala]

This was my first thought and I haven't even read the thread and don't intend to, but have been to D'land Paris twice where the concept of standing in a line to wait for an attraction or to see a character isn't understood at all. To make it worse, both times I was there it wasn't even crowded and people were line jumping and butting in front of others.

They don't have lines at DLP. They have roughly suggested groupings of like-minded persons.

 

[mmackeymouse]

We cruise on DCL because it DOES offer something unique and special to us that other cruise lines don't. The Disney "Magic".

I think some people are arguing that the Disney "Magic" IS what has been waning in recent months. Offering low quality ingredients/cuts of meat, does that sound like Disney to you? But beyond the food, there have been many comments that CM's on the boards have been less than receptive, less courteous than they have been in the past. Ive never been, so I don't really have a frame of reference.

I reason keep cruising DCL and will keep cruising DCL is not because of pirate night bandanas, not because of food, but because of the awesome people I have met on board that remember me everytime I go back. People from the cruise staff like DJ Dan, Pikey, Trevor, Tisa, etc.

Okay.....and that is good for you. But, for some people, the freebie extra touches, like the bandanas, or the food, DO play a large part in booking their cruise vacation. I don't think it is fair for not just you but anyone to be comparing their reasons for cruising. No one reason for cruising is better or worse or more noble than another.



Side note: I read earlier today that someone was trying to make substitutions or order their meals a specific way, and that the server actually seemed a bit put off. I hope this is not a new trend. Does anyone remember on the Cruising Do's and Dont's documentary, when they were talking about food, the guy was saying that it would be NO problem at all to mix and match and make special requests. But, as of late, even simple requests have been stated by more than one person to be greeted with a less than great attitude...

 

[DMMarla07860]

Okay.....and that is good for you. But, for some people, the freebie extra touches, like the bandanas, or the food, DO play a large part in booking their cruise vacation. I don't think it is fair for not just you but anyone to be comparing their reasons for cruising. No one reason for cruising is better or worse or more noble than another.

Totally agree with no one reason for cruising in better or worse or mor noble then another. I was just saying what I cruise for and after all my cruises I actually think that service has got better so I am happy. I can see why other people are upset about somethings

 

[knewton64]

I think some people are arguing that the Disney "Magic" IS what has been waning in recent months. Offering low quality ingredients/cuts of meat, does that sound like Disney to you? But beyond the food, there have been many comments that CM's on the boards have been less than receptive, less courteous than they have been in the past. Ive never been, so I don't really have a frame of reference.





Okay.....and that is good for you. But, for some people, the freebie extra touches, like the bandanas, or the food, DO play a large part in booking their cruise vacation. I don't think it is fair for not just you but anyone to be comparing their reasons for cruising. No one reason for cruising is better or worse or more noble than another.



Side note: I read earlier today that someone was trying to make substitutions or order their meals a specific way, and that the server actually seemed a bit put off. I hope this is not a new trend. Does anyone remember on the Cruising Do's and Dont's documentary, when they were talking about food, the guy was saying that it would be NO problem at all to mix and match and make special requests. But, as of late, even simple requests have been stated by more than one person to be greeted with a less than great attitude...

....ok...... I do hope this helps everyone -

As one should already tell by now, I am in the hospitality side of the hotelier industry and obviosuly see both sides of this issue(s).
And yes MMackey Mouse, I too read the very same blogger attesting to their server feeling a little put off. And yes.... I would too feel put off by her special request presentation - when it came to her meals while on board (but I would not have behaviorally expressed it outloud nor verbally).
So, from complaints about Mousekeeping, entertainment, the food, quality of it and etc........., I understand the general publics pain and or disdain for these issues that they feel plague DCL.
What I do have to chuckle about (yes, I have on my flame suit) is how the general public approaches us and expects us to jump when they snap their fingers. Then they get mad when the word "Instancy" seems to not be in the company's vocabulary /behavior that they are frequenting. Moreover, then the general puiblic chooses to get upset because they can't get what they want when they want it since for some reason they are clueless as to the word "HOW" in their presentation to us. **** WE ARE NOT OBJECTS ****
Well....one blogger actually got it right when it comes to meals and how to go about it (I saw it on this thread).
Moreover, when I chose to spend 8 hours on the phne (over a 3 day period last week), talking with DCL and various DCL call center reps and also 1 Guest relations Supervisor, I then realized WHY the general public is so confused and angry over these changes and or cutbacks. It's because they dont know HOW to approach us and approach us properly.
Now mind you..I only finished approx 40% of my "research" on these issues back to DCL (so I can get a better understanding as to whether or not I was making a wise $11K investment) before I realized that this is an enviornment I choose not to enter into (because of all this hostility and anger, apathy, isolationism, etc). Thus I pulled over $11k from DCL (2 seperate DCL vacations) and am over in an enviornment that is less angry and hostile over all these issues that I really have to chuckle over because as I noted in my blog in the thread, "PLAIN STEAK," I never stated to anyone the word HOW...HOW to go about "mixing and matching" the foods that one wants in their requests and HOW to go about one's presentations to said company, etc.
Per se, There is a way to approach us in the hotel industry. I am in the hospitality side of it. There are a lot of steps involved in getting what you want and it begins in how you approach us. Yes, the above blogger's troubles with her server was caused by the blogger's, for some reason or another, presentation to her server. Yes, there is the word, "HOW" again. but this is where I don't feel I need to step on the toes of this one individual on this site who is advocating this kind of approach.
thus, it's no wonder the outcome was what it was. ME? Well, I have no problem ordering or requesting during pm dining rotation, a cheeseburger (from deck 9), a strawberry cheesecake or shortcake (your fav MMACKEYMOUSE), or what not.....but the key is HOW one approaches DCL on this issue(s).
There are multiple steps involved here in getting what one wants. I am currently working on my ABD trip slated for late Sept of this year and yes, I am currently working on these same steps to help increase the odds of me getting what I want.
But just like any request, they are not a guarentee. However, with the proper approach, chances are one CAN get the food they way one wants it, the DCL bedspread washed and cleaned just the way one wants it, the "plain steak" just the way one wants it, "plain bbq ribs" just the way one wants it, documentation received from guest to DCL w/o any eyes rolling or a heavy sigh from the DCL rep, receiving a price listing of the assorted bottles of wine being listed in the DCL menu, etc.

Now, how do you think the busines will perceive you?? WEll.....let me answer it this way. Have anyone of you received MORE THAN just a non-answer answer from DCL guest servcies LESS THAN 30 minutes after you get off the phone with them??
I did twice last week.. That showed they paid attention to what I was saying. One of their e-mails had two words in it that obviosuly showed their disdain for the subject matter I brought up (the menu changes & the public uproar over it). And guess what? Just like I am entitled to my opinion - so are they..
Thats what makes the world go around..
So, who cares if you get a roll of the eyes or a heavy sigh from us (IF IT WAS DONE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS). THIS IS OUR PROFESSION. You are paying us. We are not your slaves - please treat us with dignity and kindness and you will be surprised if you look at us differently and approach us differently, you will get what you want. Now sure, IF we cross the line that you perceive WAS crossed, then SPEAK UP and say something to our corporate office. The above server came close to crossing the line and had he/she made a verbal to have matched their behaviors, then I would HAVE SAID something.
In closing, about that word, "HOW." WEll, that's in the eye of the beholder. All I know is I spent way too many hours on the phone with "**** " (DCL Guest relations supervisor) who after he explained their side, I asked him some questions (I only listed 3 on my plain steak blogs) and each time, he said yes.
So, obviously it can be done. It's just I come from a hospitality background so I have a different understanding how to approach said business and or any business and obtain what I want. For example, while on the Disney Wonder in January 2009, there was one partucular DCL Guest Services rep who thought I was CM material. Well....what can I say??? You just have to know HOW to approach people. ** AND THIS IS NOT THE 1ST TIME I HAVE HEARD THIS ** She & I hit it off quite well. 4 other guests (day one) asked ME DCL related questions! They thought I worked for DCL! Well..again - what can I say?? **It is all in your presentaion **
AND YES.....it was NO WONDER - that I was showered with "FREEBIES" during my stay ....not only at WDW but also during my stay at DCL (January 7th through January 15th 2009).
Am I bragging? NO. I just choose to step to the side of all this mess and wish all of you the best of luck on this; be it the new DCL menus or what not. We, the corporate world, are there for you. PLease keep in mind that we are human beings too. Some policies I don't like either but I do know that DCL is a great company and deserves to be given a pat on the back for all what they do.

P.S. Look for a Trip Report from me on the ABD side of DISboards in the next few weeks -

 

[Schiffy]

I have adjusted by steping down in cabin catagory. I have not seen an issue in food quality, I still rate it high.

How do you bowl on a cruise ship? It is hard enough on land?

 

[diznefamily]

Other cruise lines have other avenues on their lines to make up for the economic woes. The casinos are a large portion of their profits. Since Disney does not have a casino then they must look elsewhere. As for food portion size, if they are too small then just ask for 2.

 

[ppiew]

ok LOST MY REPLY so I will keep this brief (1) stateroom size - DISNEY wins hands down (2) Food - dismal. DISNEY has without doubt dropped in both flavor and presentation - including in PALO. Food is in some cases inedible - can't even slice the one and only beef entry (Animators) much less chew it!!!! Palo had huge amts. but lacking in flavor. ALL restaurants (except Parrot Key - surprise surprise) were substandard in every way. (3) Entertainment - with the exception of the nightly
'shows' ( which were Broadway quality in every way) Entertainment was actually nonexistant - gone were the magicians, gone were the comedians etc. couldn't even find a lounge with a piano player (although there might have been one)
HOWEVER -- we WILL go back. Loved the ship. Even with these shortcomings ( which i am so sad to see) we will go back at least one more time - then we will re=evaluate.

 

[nokidz]

We have cruised DCL four times in the last two years, with another two cruises booked and paid for in the next eight months or so.
We have cruised on both the Magic and the Wonder and the service is decent to great on both ships. The food is decent and very plentiful, so I have no complaints there.
We do not like sea food, so that cuts the menu in half right there, plus I am a very picky eater (steak and potatoe type of guy) so all I ever have is the steak or the chicken, now it looks like the steak is gone. What I wish DCL would do is scale back on the fancy foods and concentrate on decent good regular food. Fancy food is what PALO is for.....
As for increasing prices and lowering perks/services/quality, I have seen some lowering of quality and perks. I miss the bandana's. When we go on vacation, I want good food, good entertainment and good service. I work too hard for my money and I want the best value for my vacation dollar. As it stands right now, DCL is my cruise line. #1, it is Disney. End of story. But I am realistic. If I can get the same, or close to the same elsewhere, then I would have to really think about it. As it stands, DCL is the best. Hands down in my opinion. If they drop the service and quality too low on the ships, my vacation dollar will "jump ship".
Just my two cents.
oh yeah, bring back the "full sized" bandana's!!!!

 

[TiggerzFan]

oh yeah, bring back the "full sized" bandana's!!!!

Seriously, it's a small thing, but really, it's one of those magical touches that adds so much. It really was a let down to get to the Pirate Night dinner and have no bandana. Yep, I could've brought some from home (from previous cruises) but didn't realize I'd need to.

 

[RedSox68]

I reason keep cruising DCL and will keep cruising DCL is not because of pirate night bandanas, not because of food, but because of the awesome people I have met on board that remember me everytime I go back. People from the cruise staff like DJ Dan, Pikey, Trevor, Tisa, etc.

And NO casino -- one of our best reasons for staying off the other cruise lines

 

[DMMarla07860]

And NO casino -- one of our best reasons for staying off the other cruise lines

true no Casino is good, if I want to go to a casino I'll just drive 3 hours and go to Atlantic City for a vacation would be much cheaper then any cruise with a casino

 

[our2disneygirls]

We have only done one Disney cruise (the Wonder this past March). I think we had the new menus because I don't ever recall seeing Lobster Mac and Cheese, but that could have been on our night at Palo. We don't generally cruise for the food and have previously cruised on Carnival.

That said, we found the food to be excellent and never had a bad meal. Even if we had a bad meal, Alfredo drawing Mickey on our tablecloth for our kids and Aiko doing origami for them each night would have made up for it.

My $.02

 

[RedSox68]

I will say that I am sorry to hear they are deleting so much of the entertainment. The pubmaster, the pianist or lounge singers, some of the late night acts. We always enjoyed all their entertainment shows -- hope they don't keep it that way too long!

 

[BibbidyBobbidyBoo]

ohhhhhhkay..........everyone is entitles to their opinion, but when you start dogging our country and the people in it, I feel the urge to step in.

Actually, the U.S. is NOT the most overweight country in the world. It is a common misconception, because the U.S. is the most overweight developed country in the world. However, there are several third world countries and island nations ahead of the States on percentages alone. True, the United States is the only developed country in the Top 10. Also, these countries that are ahead of the U.S. usually do not have access to fast food and unhealthy lifestyles, so they are more genetically predispositioned to obesity, where in our country, it is a lot more self-imposed.

Our country is the most impatient country? That is completely subjective, and I doubt there are any statistics to corroborate that. It is true that we live in an instant gratification society. Who knows, maybe we are the most impatient. But, I don't know France or Germany or Russia or wherever well enough to definitively label our country the most impatient.

The last is something I take great issue with. I consider our country to be one of the most generous countries in the world. When there are global disasters, who do the countries turn to? We are taxed to help the downtrodden in our society. We put money in the collection plate at church. We give to charities. We donate our time to volunteer. Beyond money, look at the Peace Corp, look at missionaries that travel from our country to some of the most bleak places in the world.



Hmmmmm......well, I do not think 10 o clock is THAT late myself. I guess if you think about it, at WDW, little kids make it through a long exhausting day at Magic Kingdom and somehow make it through the parade. Or they make it through a long exhausting day at the Studios and somehow make it through Fantasmic.

It has been a few years since I have been to Disney, but if I remember correctly, most of the parades, fireworks, whatever, were pretty late in the evening as well. I guess they might figure if they stay up that late on land, they can do it on boat. I am sorry that your kids missed the party. That's a shame.

I agree with you- kids who would miss the pirate party would also miss a lot in the parks- since they do so many things late at night at the parks and on property. Naps in the mid-afternoon are a good way to avoid younger kids missing the later activities. I am sorry their kids missed the party though.

Regarding the 18-year-olds and above being allowed at Serenity Bay -- I can only speak from my family's experience, but I must tell you my daughter counted the years until she could join us there. Until she was 18, we always stayed on the family beach with her -- but even she got disgusted with the noise and out of control children and screaming. She was always a shy girl and never acclimated well to the clubs either -- she was either too old for the younger teen set, or uncomfortable with her "age group" because a lot of times it was the older teens and she was only 14 in a club with 17-year-olds!

My daughter has never liked being around kids who drink or smoke or are loud. She's 22 now and relishes her time in the adult pool and the adult beach. Maybe she was the exception at 18, but she was really ready to be in the "quiet zone"

However, I 100% agree with all the comments above about the clubs. I wrote on every comment card, and sent an email and a letter after our second cruise, about how we thought that there was too vast an age range in these clubs. We suggested they "tighten" up the groups and lesson the age ranges and add an additional group. For instance: 3-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-14, and add a group for 15-17. Of course, that would require investing more money for a location and more staff

I agree about the clubs. It is still concerning for me that 14yr olds are among 18yr olds (yes, 18yr olds who haven't started college yet can be in the stack AND in the adult areas if they want.. how they would know if they haven't started college yet I have no idea...) Personally I think they should go back to the way it was -with the 2 seperate age groups in the kids club, 2 seperate age groups in the lab (8-9 and 10-12, those age ranges are better IMO. The way it is now with some just turned 8yr olds and some "almost" 11yr olds together is just too big of an age difference in all ways- physical, mental, maturity, etc. IMO) but...... then put 13-15 in the OceanQuest and make the stack for ages 16-18.
I know some won't agree with that but that's what MY ideal age groupings would be- and it wouldn't be difficult either. They'd only be going back to the way they used to do it (and still do on the Wonder) in all the age groupings 12 and under- but with OceanQuest they'd be able to split up the younger teens and older teens between OQ and Stack. It was a step in the right direction to put 13yr olds in OQ instead of the stack-- but a baby step. I think they could do more and I hope they do- on the new ships.

 

[ppiew]

yea, I guess I would have to disagree. My about to be 13 yr old has been on 5 DCL cruises and is so looking forward to being allowed to go to the teen club. Last year she was bored silly in the lab and ended up sitting on the veranda or the pool deck each day. If she were 'banned' now I guess we would cancel this yrs cruise and postpone for another year. Just an observation - but I didn't see many 18 yr olds headed for the Teen Club at all. a lot were playing basketball and many were hanging around the pool. A friends daughter (age 17) said there really weren't many of that age group in Aloft F(and she was there) and those that were ,were on computers most of the time. Just a comment.

 

[BibbidyBobbidyBoo]

yea, I guess I would have to disagree. My about to be 13 yr old has been on 5 DCL cruises and is so looking forward to being allowed to go to the teen club. Last year she was bored silly in the lab and ended up sitting on the veranda or the pool deck each day. If she were 'banned' now I guess we would cancel this yrs cruise and postpone for another year. Just an observation - but I didn't see many 18 yr olds headed for the Teen Club at all. a lot were playing basketball and many were hanging around the pool. A friends daughter (age 17) said there really weren't many of that age group in Aloft F(and she was there) and those that were ,were on computers most of the time. Just a comment.

I think we were both talking about on the magic where there is the Ocean Quest.... there isn't an option to do what we were saying (atleast right now) on the Wonder -there isn't another place for the younger teens to go. But on the Magic it would work just like it used to be.. EXCEPT that with OceanQuest that could be for the younger teens instead of how they divded up the lab more to put some of those kids in OceanQuest and 13yr olds in OQ also. As it is NOW the 13yr olds are in OceanQuest anyway. So you must be speaking about cruising on the Wonder...

Don't expect that to be always the case (what your friend's 17yr old witnessed). atleast on the magic there have been cruises where there are MANY 17/18yr olds up there and they aren't just playing on computers either......