Little confused about the complaints about price hiking

[sweetpee_1993]

We just got off the 10 night Hawaii cruise and are cruising on the Wonder again in 5 weeks. I thought the Wonder was in pretty good shape. What I didn't like was buffet. It is really lacking compared to Cabanas on the other ships. We did have some plumbing and some AC issues. They were promptly fixed when reported. We did have a couple of really hot nights though when the AC stopped working about 3 am. I really wanted to do the PC cruise next year, but decided to wait until the Wonder gets it's makeover. I may regret that decision because the price may go up because of the refurb.
I would love to cruise Alaska on DCL, but the prices are crazy. I've researched CC and actually Radiance of the Seas has a higher rating then the Wonder. I talked to a family on our Hawaii cruise that had just sailed on the Norwegian Pearl in May. They loved it they said it cost them around 2k for two inside rooms. The cheapest Alaska cruise next year is May 23. 5k for a cat 11b and that's with an OBB. I won't even get into the cost of a Verandah on DCL. Scary!!

I wouldn't cruise Alaska on DCL just for the Wonder. I would only spend that kind of money if the Disney experience was more important than actually seeing Alaska.

Yeah. It's not that I have particular issues with the Wonder, it's just that it's not like the ship is new. It doesn't feel new. It's not perfect (not that any ship is, new or old). My biggest thing is the cost per night to actual time truly spent onboard for a port-intensive itinerary. That's simply not a good value to me. I'd rather take that 3k you'd save on rooms and pour into port activities. Or shopping. Or even a second week! LOL!

 

[GatorMomInNC]

We just planned an Alaskan cruise, and all of the cruise lines run old ships on that itinerary. All of the Cruise Critic reviews blast all of the other ships for being terribly out of shape, showing their age, bad smells and stains everywhere, etc. The reviews of the Wonder? Mostly excellent, still in great shape, etc. That swayed our decision, even though we were leaning towards DCL anyway.

Like the PP, we're also Disney stockholders. That is the best way to make yourself feel better about all these increases.

We just did Alaska on the Celebrity Solstice which is a beautiful ship. I don't know how old it is, but it looked new to me. I think the Wonder is great, but for a 7 night, pot intensive Alaskan cruise it was way too much. We did 11nights on the Solstice for less money. But I have not been able to find a good deal on Celebrity again. In fact, I think for the European cruises I've looked at they are very expensive now, so maybe all the cruise lines are raising prices?

 

[southerngirl528]

Regarding the Wonder, I also just got off the 9/17 ten night Hawaii cruise and both my very particular DD and myself thought she was in absolutely fabulous shape for a ship her age. I would put her against a 3 year old ship I've sailed with RCCL. We both thought she was as gorgeous as always. AC and plumbing issues happen on the Fantasy & Dream sometimes as well. Everyone has their own set of what is important because we are all individuals. I would not have been happy anywhere if the AC stopped working, especially while I was trying to sleep. But I've had that happen in hotel rooms way too many times (not to even mention those blasted "sensor" on hotel thermostats now that turn the a/c off if no one is moving around, UGH!).

To me, this whole ongoing fuss about prices is fine, this is a forum after all. But I do not think it equitable that those that are ranting about the prices should shoot down anyone that takes an opposing viewpoint of any sort. Because again, these are ALL just opinions and particular to each individual. I think DCL's prices are getting pretty darned high as well. But milk has skyrocketed in price, as have so many other consumer items. The hairspray I use just shot up 25% at Target. 25%!!! That's a pretty big increase too. And yes, I know. That is a small example compared to the rising cost of a cruise. But I have to buy groceries, toiletries and sundries on an ongoing basis and my monthly costs for the same have gone up a lot in the last 2 or 3 years. I don't give a hoot what the 'leaders' in DC say, we ARE having inflation. My annual costs of supplies for living have gone up more than a little.

 

[Ofinn]

Regarding the Wonder, I also just got off the 9/17 ten night Hawaii cruise and both my very particular DD and myself thought she was in absolutely fabulous shape for a ship her age. I would put her against a 3 year old ship I've sailed with RCCL. We both thought she was as gorgeous as always. AC and plumbing issues happen on the Fantasy & Dream sometimes as well. Everyone has their own set of what is important because we are all individuals. I would not have been happy anywhere if the AC stopped working, especially while I was trying to sleep. But I've had that happen in hotel rooms way too many times (not to even mention those blasted "sensor" on hotel thermostats now that turn the a/c off if no one is moving around, UGH!).

To me, this whole ongoing fuss about prices is fine, this is a forum after all. But I do not think it equitable that those that are ranting about the prices should shoot down anyone that takes an opposing viewpoint of any sort. Because again, these are ALL just opinions and particular to each individual. I think DCL's prices are getting pretty darned high as well. But milk has skyrocketed in price, as have so many other consumer items. The hairspray I use just shot up 25% at Target. 25%!!! That's a pretty big increase too. And yes, I know. That is a small example compared to the rising cost of a cruise. But I have to buy groceries, toiletries and sundries on an ongoing basis and my monthly costs for the same have gone up a lot in the last 2 or 3 years. I don't give a hoot what the 'leaders' in DC say, we ARE having inflation. My annual costs of supplies for living have gone up more than a little.

I realize plumbing and ac issues can happen on any ship. It certainly wouldn't stop me from booking a cruise on the Wonder. In fact I have two more cruises booked on her. At the moment it's the only Disney ship(excluding Alaska cruises) that doesn't have insane pricing.
I agree there's inflation, but certainly not the rate at which DCL is raising their prices. I shop at Costco, and I really haven't noticed an increase in prices. As far as clothes go they seem to keep getting cheaper. Sales are everywhere. Electronics are about the same. You can always find deals out there.

 

[blondietink]

I agree there's inflation, but certainly not the rate at which DCL is raising their prices. I shop at Costco, and I really haven't noticed an increase in prices. As far as clothes go they seem to keep getting cheaper. Sales are everywhere. Electronics are about the same. You can always find deals out there.

Well, according to the government, there is no increase in prices so the CPI is flat, and everybody getting a retirement check from Social Security will not be getting any increase next year. But, when I go to the grocery store egg prices are insane, bacon has skyrocketed, beef is also very high, etc.

 

[sweetpee_1993]

Well, according to the government, there is no increase in prices so the CPI is flat, and everybody getting a retirement check from Social Security will not be getting any increase next year. But, when I go to the grocery store egg prices are insane, bacon has skyrocketed, beef is also very high, etc.

Well that's because the government is clueless.

 

[egesicki]

Just my two cents...yes some of the sailings are crazy high. But competetive ones can be found too. I just priced ncl 7nights at thanksgiving next year following a link in an ncl ad, and it came in about the same out of pocket as our Magic thanksgiving cruise. Same quoted recently on princess, and same on one of royals newer ships. I booked opening day and I am using all the tricks with raise red card and my Disney chase card, and we are inside vs balcony, but I am ok with the category trade off because that's the week and the ship I want. I think it's really an individual call based on what each of us values.

 

[jdb in AZ]

Well, according to the government, there is no increase in prices so the CPI is flat, and everybody getting a retirement check from Social Security will not be getting any increase next year. But, when I go to the grocery store egg prices are insane, bacon has skyrocketed, beef is also very high, etc.

It's because gas prices are currently low.

 

[Plaid Princess]

So maybe its more because we sail in the "off-season" my opinion my be skewed. But the fact of the matter is Disney Cruise Line is a business and every business is there to make money, food costs are rising, transportation costs are rising, and even every little(H2O isn't cheap ) cost could be rising plus stock holders need to make money [...] Just needed to vent because I rarely ever see this mentioned for DCL or the parks for that matter.

Totally, completely, 100% agree. I don't know when the idea that everyone "deserves" to go to Disney popped up, but people have starting thinking trips to Disney are a right, not a privilege; that Disney is a charity, not a business. I don't feel any of Disney's price hikes have been that outrageous, or unjustified... and my Disney stock agrees.

 

[Ofinn]

Totally, completely, 100% agree. I don't know when the idea that everyone "deserves" to go to Disney popped up, but people have starting thinking trips to Disney are a right, not a privilege; that Disney is a charity, not a business. I don't feel any of Disney's price hikes have been that outrageous, or unjustified... and my Disney stock agrees.

I dont think anyone on here thinks disney cruises are a right. Most people are just venting that they dont find the value anymore and are trying other cruiselines. A lot of people are reporting back the grass is just as green on other ships. The stock market is in a huge bubble right now. When it bursts Disney will crash just as hard.

 

[jahber]

Just my two cents...yes some of the sailings are crazy high. But competetive ones can be found too. I just priced ncl 7nights at thanksgiving next year following a link in an ncl ad, and it came in about the same out of pocket as our Magic thanksgiving cruise. Same quoted recently on princess, and same on one of royals newer ships. I booked opening day and I am using all the tricks with raise red card and my Disney chase card, and we are inside vs balcony, but I am ok with the category trade off because that's the week and the ship I want. I think it's really an individual call based on what each of us values.

I'm glad you found a cruise that works for you, but is the cruise competitive when you DO look at comparable categories? Just curious. That would be great news! But honestly, you don't have to justify it by saying the prices are competitive...if it means stretching reality a bit (comparing an inside to a balcony). If you can afford it and you want to pay it, go for it!

 

[Ofinn]

I'm glad you found a cruise that works for you, but is the cruise competitive when you DO look at comparable categories? Just curious. That would be great news! But honestly, you don't have to justify it by saying the prices are competitive...if it means stretching reality a bit (comparing an inside to a balcony). If you can afford it and you want to pay it, go for it!

That's what I was thinking. I've given up balcony's to continue to sail on DCL. As soon as my 11 year old is old enough for the teen clubs on other lines(12 on RCI and 13 on NCL) I will be trying both these cruise lines. I know he will hate being with the little kids after being in the Edge, and I really don't want to pay for child care after 10pm nor do I want to check him in and out. My oldest is 13 and it's nice having them in the same club. The tween club situation is the only thing tying me to DCL for the next year, and then I think I'll be ready to jump ship so to speak. I'm really looking forward to trying something new. There are only so many pirate nights I can do in one lifetime.

 

[cgolf]

Totally, completely, 100% agree. I don't know when the idea that everyone "deserves" to go to Disney popped up, but people have starting thinking trips to Disney are a right, not a privilege; that Disney is a charity, not a business. I don't feel any of Disney's price hikes have been that outrageous, or unjustified... and my Disney stock agrees.

Just curious, so do you think that this is not an outragous price hike? 2016 trips on the Magic a 4 and 5 night back to back is cheaper than a 2017 3 and 3 night back to back. They are the same time of year, same room category, and the same ports, except the 2017 cruise had one less port. So in one year it costs more for 6 nights vs 9 nights, to me that is outragous. This is why we are looking at other lines, the value isn't there anymore, it isn't like they are going to add value to the ship between the 2016 and 2017 cruises. We will let some first timers take our spot and are happy to do so.

 

[Club Disney Chandler]

Even in the off season DCL prices are crazy high. We just decided to do a cruise for the first week of October 2016. We looked at DCL Fantasy and RCCL Liberty of the Seas, (Freedom Class - slightly larger than Fantasy), both are western Caribbean with the same ports except RCCL doesn't have CC of course. Liberty sails out of Galveston.

We typically sail in 2 insides for the 4 of us so roughly 370 square feet on DCL and 320 on RCCL. Of course on RCCL there is no magical porthole that I truly do love.

Fantasy leaves on 10/1, Liberty leaves on 10/2. These are the closest comparable cruises I could find as far as itinerary, age of ship, (although Fantasy is about 4 years younger) and comparable size ship.

Price for the two ships for 4 people in 2 insides both midship deck 8.

Fantasy - $6016
Liberty - $2800

We decided to give Liberty a try, if we don't like it, big deal we're out $3000.

After I booked it I realized she's going into dry dock in January and getting a new class of cabins on deck 12, the panoramic ocean view. I found they have a family room that sleeps up to 6, but you have to pay for at least 5 people. The room is 400 square feet has 1 full bath plus a 1/2 bath. The panoramic view window is 7 feet tall and 25 feet wide and I get to wake up to this view every morning:


To the left of the chairs is a full size sofa sleeper and there is a bunk room with bunk beds, a closet and privacy curtain.

It looks out over the bow of the ship and came in with a whopping price of $2950, (paying for 5 people).

So I'm getting more square feet, an amazing view and saving enough money to book another week if I want. Granted, I'm losing out on a shower, and maybe some magic. My kids don't ever use the clubs so that's not a concern for us.

I think where we're seeing the huge price increases is for the insides. There used to be a big price break on those but it's just not there anymore.

As a former CM, (in my professional life and I would go back to work for them in a second if it was possible in AZ), I hate turning my back on DCL.

I do think DCL gives a great experience but is it worth double the amount in an inside vs this room, I doubt it, but won't know for sure for a year.

 

[egesicki]

I'm glad you found a cruise that works for you, but is the cruise competitive when you DO look at comparable categories? Just curious. That would be great news! But honestly, you don't have to justify it by saying the prices are competitive...if it means stretching reality a bit (comparing an inside to a balcony). If you can afford it and you want to pay it, go for it!

I guess it depends somewhat how you define comparable categories and if the cabin is the only thing you compare.
The dcl insides seem quite nice and usually larger square footage than other than lines so inside to inside may not be a true comparison. Oceaneers club is a big plus in our book too. Like I said, value is in the eye of the beholder.

 

[cgolf]

I guess it depends somewhat how you define comparable categories and if the cabin is the only thing you compare.
The dcl insides seem quite nice and usually larger square footage than other than lines so inside to inside may not be a true comparison. Oceaneers club is a big plus in our book too. Like I said, value is in the eye of the beholder.

It depends on the line, we actually found that celebrity had the same and a little larger inside rooms vs the Fantasy. It could have been that ship though, it was one of their newer ones.

 

[jahber]

That's what I was thinking. I've given up balcony's to continue to sail on DCL. As soon as my 11 year old is old enough for the teen clubs on other lines(12 on RCI and 13 on NCL) I will be trying both these cruise lines. I know he will hate being with the little kids after being in the Edge, and I really don't want to pay for child care after 10pm nor do I want to check him in and out. My oldest is 13 and it's nice having them in the same club. The tween club situation is the only thing tying me to DCL for the next year, and then I think I'll be ready to jump ship so to speak. I'm really looking forward to trying something new. There are only so many pirate nights I can do in one lifetime.

You know your kids best, but if you are really close to considering another line and these concerns are all that are holding you back--let me encourage you that these differences aren't as restrictive as they sound. We've only sailed Carnival (on their newest ships) other than DCL, but my 11yo actually enjoyed the kids club quite a lot. And she could check herself out, so she could go get ice cream or go on a scavenger hunt or whatever the "big kids" activity was with no problem. The big kids get to do stuff outside the club, like Edge kids do, even if they don't have sign out privileges. They just bring them back to the club when the outside activity is over. They aren't trapped in the club like the littles are.

Now, granted, this was Carnival, but I would assume that Royal would allow 11yos to check themselves out (maybe?). The later hours are also great on DCL, but for what we saved on fare, we could afford ALL THE HOURS! And my kids loved going to the buffet with the clubs to eat. They really just enjoyed everything about Carnival. It was different (and oh, the water park!!!), but still awesome

 

[Mark D.]

Even in the off season DCL prices are crazy high. We just decided to do a cruise for the first week of October 2016

I don't know that October is considered the off season any more. A lot of school systems in my area have a one or two week fall break in the first half of October. We're only a day's drive away (or less than a two hour flight) so it's not that hard to get to Port Canaveral and back during break. I think Disney caught on, and started to consider early October as part of their peak season. We looked at their prices for Oct 2016, and decided we were skipping that one after cruising the last three Octobers. We're not done with DCL by any means, but we'll have to space them out a little bit more.

 

[holula]

View attachment 132269
To the left of the chairs is a full size sofa sleeper and there is a bunk room with bunk beds, a closet and privacy curtain.

It looks out over the bow of the ship and came in with a whopping price of $2950, (paying for 5 people).

So I'm getting more square feet, an amazing view and saving enough money to book another week if I want. Granted, I'm losing out on a shower, and maybe some magic. My kids don't ever use the clubs so that's not a concern for us.

Holy smokes! I want to stay in that room. That's a great price for five people. I'm excited to see the waterslides they are going to add to Liberty.

 

[Club Disney Chandler]

Holy smokes! I want to stay in that room. That's a great price for five people. I'm excited to see the waterslides they are going to add to Liberty.

They only have 2 of these on each of the Freedom class ships only. I figure at this price, if for some reason we hate Royal, we can just camp in that room and order room service for a week, that alone is worth $3000.