You are probably expecting me to be writing this brief blog from the comfort of my cabin onboard the Carnival Fantasy. ………..but instead, I am writing to you from Stephanie’s cubical here in the Miami office………….and that deserves a huge BUGGER.
Yesterday was a manic day involving just 10 minutes to pack from the hotel in Dallas and a late night flight back to Fort Lauderdale……not Miami………..and, oh boy, do I have a story to tell you about that flight.
Anyway, the reason for all this madness is the fault of a bunch of men with a spitting fetish who spend hours blowing large chunks of brown poo out of their mouth and occasionally try and hit a ball with a stick. Apparently there is something called the World Series going on where two different countries…………in this case Philadelphia Steak Sandwiches and the Tampa Bay Buccarays.
There is some fear that the Philadelphia team will beat the other country in the World Series and, therefore, trump our Carnival event. So, it was decided that we may have to move it to Saturday if the Philadelphia team win on Tuesday or if Tampa win on Wednesday or if someone scores a touchdown and…………..ummmmm……………..basically nobody has a Scooby Doo what’s happening.
However, they wanted me to be here to help chat about the different scenarios and not to be floating around looking at the fantastic Evolutions of Fun………..but I will get a chance to do so soon, I promise.
Now, lots of you are looking forward to coming to Philadelphia and before you ask I promise to let you know if it’s Saturday or Sunday…………we will know all about this by noon tomorrow.
We use the words “thank you” so much in every day conversation……….unless you work for airport security…………….and sometimes it never seems enough. This is one of those times. I want to say a huge, massive, gigantic leviathan sized thank you to everyone who took the time to come to Dallas yesterday. Your loyalty to Carnival and your friendship toward me is something I will never forget and I hope you had as much fun as I did.
Thanks also to everyone who looked at what we were doing online and I hope you enjoyed the wonderful and dedicated work of Stephanie, Tom, Tony, Jordan, Walter, and Dan who did their ummmm……….computer thingy yesterday that allowed thousands of you to join in the fun…………..three of them have a beard by the way……………Jordan, Dan and Stephanie. They will be with us in Philadelphia as well providing even better footage.
I have so many experiences I want to share with you from yesterday and I will be writing those later tonight ready for an early morning post tomorrow.
However, I do need to cover this piece of breaking news.
CARNIVAL LIBERTY TO OPERATE YEAR-ROUND SEVEN-DAY CRUISES FROM MIAMI BEGINNING APRIL 2009; INTRODUCTION OF YEAR-ROUND CRUISES FROM BALTIMORE ON CARNIVAL PRIDE MOVED UP TO SPRING
MIAMI (October 27, 2008 ) – Carnival Cruise Lines has announced that its Miami-based Carnival Liberty, which was originally scheduled to reposition to Europe in May 2009, will instead remain in Miami to operate year-round Caribbean cruises.
The Carnival Liberty will continue to offer its existing schedule of seven-day Caribbean cruises through next spring and then introduce a new seven-day program from Miami beginning in April 2009.
In turn, the Carnival Pride, currently based in Long Beach, Calif., and originally scheduled to shift to Miami for a five-month Caribbean deployment from April through August, will instead launch its Baltimore-based program on April 27, 2009.Prior to its Baltimore deployment, Carnival Pride will operate its previously scheduled Panama Canal cruise from Long Beach, Calif., to Miami March 22–April 5, 2009, as well as a six-day cruise departing April 5 and two seven-day Caribbean cruises departing April 11 and 18, 2009, all operating from Miami.
“Based on current market conditions, continued economic uncertainty and high air costs to Europe, we are shifting our focus to an even greater extent toward our core, close-to-home cruise options which are clearly the preference of the vast majority of the mainstream vacation market right now,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. “We are excited that this change in deployment will also enable us to bring the Carnival Pride to Baltimore four months earlier than originally planned to start up that city’s first year-round cruise program, which is proving to be extremely popular based on advanced bookings so far,” he added.
Cahill noted that Carnival will still offer several European cruises next year when the 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream – the line’s newest and largest ship – debuts with a series of three 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia) in September and October 2009. Carnival Dream will also operate a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing from Rome (Civitavecchia) to New York in late October 2009.
Cahill said that the company will be offering assistance in finding vacation alternatives to Carnival Liberty guests who were scheduled to sail in Europe, including European cruises on Carnival’s sister companies that have a strong presence in the region such as Holland America and Princess. “We understand that our guests who were scheduled to sail in Europe are going to be disappointed by this development and we sincerely apologize to them for this disruption to their vacation plans. Europe remains a desirable vacation choice for many and we will endeavor to help our guests find alternative plans to sail within the region,” he said.
Existing Bookings – Carnival Liberty and Carnival Pride
Guests booked on the Carnival Liberty Europe cruises will be provided special onboard credit offers toward other 2009 Carnival cruises, including the Carnival Dream European departures. In addition, Carnival will assist guests with the cost of changes/cancellations for non-refundable air transportation.
Guests who were booked on the Carnival Pride’s Caribbean cruises from April 25, 2009 to August 29, 2009 from Miami will be automatically shifted to the same accommodations on the Carnival Liberty. The Carnival Liberty will also operate the same itineraries as previously scheduled on the Carnival Pride.Carnival Liberty’s New Seven-Day Caribbean Cruises From Miami
Carnival Liberty will continue its current program of seven-day Caribbean cruises from Miami through April 18, 2009 then assume a new schedule of weeklong cruises to the Western and Exotic Eastern Caribbean beginning Saturday, April 25, 2009, through November 28, 2009. The new Exotic Eastern Caribbean cruise route will feature Half Moon Cay, a private Bahamian island; St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. The western route will visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico
Carnival Pride’s New Spring/Summer Departures From Baltimore
Carnival Pride will launch Baltimore’s first year-round cruise program beginning on April 27, 2009, four months ahead of the original schedule. From April 27, 2009 to September 6, 2009, the ship will operate a series of six-, seven- and eight-day cruises. These cruises will visit a wide variety of ports including Nassau, Freeport, Half Moon Cay (a private Bahamian island), Port Canaveral (Orlando) and Grand Turk in the Turks & Caicos.
Reservations
Carnival will begin accepting reservations for the new Carnival Liberty and Carnival Pride programs from Miami and Baltimore beginning October 30, 2008. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.
Let me start by saying nobody is more disappointed about this then me. It would have been perfect for me with the ship sailing from Dover and, of course, you all know how much I love Europe. However, I totally understand why this is happened.
As Gerry mentioned there is a slight ping of uncertainty in the air with all that’s happening in the world and therefore we need to keep the fleet close to home……….for now. I can also tell you that there are many people in Baltimore rejoicing today as they now benefit from Carnival Liberty staying in the Caribbean by getting their Carnival Pride a lot earlier. So, what should the people who booked Carnival Liberty in Europe do? Well, you have two choices. You can let you put you on Princess or Holland America who remain in Europe and whose pedigree of excellence is unmistakable. If you are unsure of which one is right for you …………….ask me……………let me help direct you.
Then, of course, you can change to the Carnival Dream. Now I realize that her time in Europe is much shorter but I can tell you that this ship is going to be extraordinary and………………..I promise to be on the inaugural cruise……………….I promise to be there with you………….I will not be the cruise director but I will be writing and I will, if needed, be there for you. So, why not join me on Carnival Dream for your European Adventure.
When Carnival makes changes like this I often think that it would be nice if there was a way we could put a human face on this. …….and then I realized that we can …………. me. Now, it may be an extremely ugly face but I hope its one that maybe able to help you.
So, tomorrow (Tuesday) I will be posting details about a live chat specifically for those people who may have a question about Europe. It will be in working hours but hopefully it will be something that will help you.
Let’s recap.
The Carnival Dream………….change from the Carnival Liberty to her first European cruise and I promise to be there with you to share with you this inaugural journey. ………….and I mean WITH you. I will be your mate…………..I hope some of you will have a think about this option.
If the Baltic is what you want, then please have a think about Princess or Holland America. If you have never cruised with these two great companies, then why not send me a comment during the live write in on Wednesday?…………..Maybe I can help.
Most importantly……………….we are sorry — truly sorry — that this decision has disrupted your vacation plans…………and I hope that I can help you decide what’s best for you.
Can I ask Mac, Kuki, etc. to put this on the boards………………..and we will follow up on the Wednesday thingy tomorrow.
Right now I am in another meeting and have to bugger off. I will be writing a “normal” log tonight which will be posted tomorrow.
Goodnight
Your Friend
John
LATE BREAKING NEWS
THE PHILLY EVENT WHICH WILL INCLUDE.
THE FILMING OF THE NEW CARNIVAL COMMERCIAL WITH YOU AS AN EXTRA….BE PART OF THE EXPERIENCE AND BREAK A WORLD RECORD…………..THE WORLD’S LARGEST PINATA, CARNIVAL ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN, COMPLIMENTARY FOOD AND TREATS,
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION, AND MUCH, MUCH MORE
AND………..FOR ALL BLOGGERS THERE WILL BE A PRIVATE EVENT PREVIEW AT 10:30AM ON SUNDAY HOSTED BY ME AND INCLUDING LOADS OF DOUGHNUTS.
CAN YOU COME?
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
I am sad about the Liberty. It was our hope to go back to Europe in a near future because of the excellent value. Carnival was so good in Europe in every sense. Now I see even farther the chance to go to Northern Europe. And you friend……what now??
A big big big big really big hugo. Miss you
Nanni
John:
DJ is a huge Red Soxs fan…but since that was not to be this year…he is now cheering for the Phillies.
I also got an email from our favorite karaoke host and he told me that he will be getting off the Splendor as we are getting on…November 17th.
Bugger……
So, we are considering (not definate) but are considering tacking on the November 15th sailing ahead of our 17th (for a B2B), so that I will get to see him before he heads off on vacation.
If we do this, we will be sailing on the Splendor the 15th and 17th and then on the Freedom on the 22nd.
We have never booked a cruise just because a specific Carnival employee was going to be onboard. So if we book this one….it will be a first…because it will be so that we can see our friend!
I have talked with my PVP and David is trying to figure out a little thing called WORK….but hopefully, this will happen!
As a result, we are not going to try to make Philly.
We were considering Philly…but we can’t afford do both Philly AND an extra cruise. (since adding the Nov 15th cruise will have us doing 10 Carnival cruises in one 12 month period.)
So have fun!!! We will be there by webcam!!!!
And I hope we get to see our favorite karaoke host on the 15th.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
GO PHILLIES!!!!!!
Ok, sorry, had to do that. I’m planning on being in Philly if it’s Sunday, not sure about Saturday. My kids are excited so I’m hoping we can make it.
I WILL BE THERE IN PHILLY. I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU JOHN! Need more info.
John please reply.
I need some guidance – I have altready purchased airfare that is non-refundable and made a hotel reservation in Miami which is non-refundablefor the Carnival Liberty 04/25/09 Transatlantic sailing (booking #4ZS920) and no one at Carnival seems to know or care about what I need to do to get a refund through Carnival. They aren’t even sure they will refund me the hotel reservation at all, or even my airfare, which put me out several $1,000 dollars.
I had 2 Liberty 2009 bookings for Europe and before that, I had 2 Freedom European bookings that were cancelled on me, which is why I booked on the Liberty. SO I guess that makes 4 European bookings Carnival has cancelled on me for 2009.
I can’t sail on the Dream as I cannot get any of those dates off work.
I just don’t know what to do! I am so upset and hurt by this. I have been a loyal Carnival cruiser, never sailed with another cruise line and would have turned Platinum or “VIP” next year with Carnival if these bookings had not been cancelled.
I’m crying as I type this, so I hope I don’t get electrocuted if my keyboard gets wet!
I do not want to go to the Caribbean instead or Alaska with Carnival instead. Been there done that, I wanted to do Europe again. Especially after being on the Splendor with you, Heidi (and the Thingy!) in September.
Please advise! Help!
Melissa Jurgensen
John, I’ll be glad to pass the information along, as you asked.
There were quite a few upset folks on the boards today as many had booked the Liberty for the Med. As the day wore on the upset lessened a bit, particularly as the options were made known.
I’ll be looking for your blog in the morning and what a bummer that you couldn’t manage to be on the Fantasy.
Ciao, my friend…
Host Mach
John, Don and I will be in Philly. We are just waiting on the final word as to what day. Have to make reservations for the doggy. It’s a 12 hour drive so we can’t wait until the last minute to make plans.
Princess Susan is on a cruise but wants to come to Philly also. I hope the change to Sat., if that becomes the actual day, doesn’t prevent her from coming also.
I’m so sorry that the Liberty won’t be on your side of the ocean I know how badly you wanted your plans to work so you could cruise on it and be close to Heidi and the sweet little one.
See you soon and you to Stephanie.
Countess Carolyn and Don
John as i am form as midstates as you can get and surrounded by corn fields is there any chance you ever do something in the midstates area like Nebraska
I see all these wonderful ideas but they are all to far to travel to be at , and im sure other midstate people would like to be there as well
let us know will you
i watch the thing in Dallis and it was great thank god the last free criuse there was some one there to claim it grins have a great day John and say hi to your better half and the thingy
D. Conway
Hey John,
I really enjoyed the videos that you sent yesterday. Wish I could have been there, but next best was watching…so thanks. I read you rblog thingy everyday & look forward to them…so thanks.
Jan
Hi John!
That’s awful about your schedule change. I understand its beyond your control but I’m sure you were looking forward to putting your feet up for a few days.
Interesting developments with Europe, but as Gerry said, its hard to forecast the future ahead.
It was a blast seeing you yesterday.
Good luck and I look forward to hearing more soon.
Take care!
David
John I know you are really busy but could you Please Reply.
I need an address to send packages for your thingy.
Carolann
Hi John,
I’m planning to come to Philly whichever day it is. Just let us know! It will be lovely to see you again! And all of the other bloggers I haven’t seen since January, or have yet to meet!
Cheerios,
Laura (aka divetrash, aka Princess Laura, the sweet and lately quiet one, of Big Ed’s Evil Krewe)
I’m planning to get to Philly, but will probably spend the night. It’s about a three hour drive, but worth it to meet all you great people and of course John. I read the blog thingy everyday, but don’t comment often since, by the time I get to it, what I have to say has been said three or four times. I’ll be the one in the Hawaiian Shirt! (Don’t leave home without it!!)
Cheers & Aloha!
Well, John, if you and Cahill think that offering a $50 shipboard credit is of any value to soothe hurt feelings, I will tell you. It is pitiful. I really hope the joy in Baltimore is worth what happened today. My friends and I booked next July 20 in APRIL of this year. April. In other words, six months ago. And to be offered no real consideration? My wife called the Carnival travel hotline and was coldly told by three people that the $50 was all that could be offered.
We have loved our time on Carnival but cannot begin to express our anger. We will find another cruise, of course. Holland America and Princess might get our business. But Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are in Europe as well. Perhaps they will be interested in our business. I feel strongly that this cancellation should cause Carnival to offer us a cruise at a significant discount. To refer to $50 as a “special onboard credit” is, frankly, an insult. This is no way to reward early bookings.
I was looking forward to seeing you again. We sailed with you on Triumph several years ago, but it is obvioulsy not to be.
Please let me know as soon as you know about Philadelphia plans. My husband and I will be coming from Delaware to be there. Can’t wait.
John – (Please reply at your convenience – it’s long)
I recently sailed on my first Carnival Cruise (Carnival Victory) and I thought you might like to hear my impressions as a travel agent.
Overall I really enjoyed the cruise even if it was the “Old, Aged and Infirm” cruise. We even had 28 seeing eye dogs onboard!! The staff worked very hard to keep the visually challenged … upright, but it was the other guests that gave them the most trouble… They would see them coming and just stand in the middle of the deck so that the dog might go one way that the person the other and then get all tangled up. The worst area was the photo shop in the atrium. The aisles are narrow anyway and trying to get a service animal or a wheelchair thru there when it is crowded is a nightmare.
That said… some comments.
Carnival has the BEST PIZZA on the seven seas!! I have tried it all and the pizza on this ship was as close to what you get at home as anything I’ve ever had. (and I’ve had my share) It was choice for my “before dinner snack”. Princess has the worst, Carnival the best!
Also… Carnival has the BEST STAGE SHOWS on the seven seas! I love spending time in the theater and seeing a great big razzle dazzle revue is the best way. Having a live orchestra with every show is great too. As far as the other entertainment goes… The Juggler was fine, The Magician was great, The comedian was terrible (boring) and the Hypnotist was dull.
Our CD was almost non-existent except for the announcements on the squawk box and a personal appearance at the coffee bar. (that was announced!)
Our weather was rainy so a lot of outdoor activities were moved inside at the last minute, but you can’t help that.
The food was good as was the service in the dining room and my cabin.
A thought…
Has Carnival ever given thought to the idea of “Classic Cocktails”. I tried to find a descent Mai Tai and all I could find was a sickenly sweet drink made with Grenadine and sweet & sour mix. Not a Classic Mai Tai by any means. (The best is at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel on Waikiki Beach, Oahu) My idea would be to have a select bar (perhaps the wine bar) have the original “classic recipe” cocktails. Actually do the research into the origins of each drink and provide that in the menu. Of course a premium price could be charged for top shelf booze. In addition, up scale Champagne could also be served. (think QM2 Champagne Bar) I know that Carnival is not known for being “upscale”, but there’s nothing wrong with a few places for those of us that would like it. (Since this ship did not have a Supper Club it could not be put there.)
Another observation. It seemed to me that the merchandise was poorly displayed and maintained and that the shop keepers were just there to ring up sales and who cares if there were toys on the floor or that the Formal shop had so much stuff in it, and it was so poorly displayed, you couldn’t see the stuff they had.
Overall, I enjoyed my self and I will certainly take another Carnival Cruise in the future. I don’t mean to sound critical, but I thought that if anyone would care to address my comments, it would be you.
I really do enjoy reading your blog thingy everyday and I can’t wait to meet you in Philly. All my best to you, Heidi, and Stephanie.
Cheers!
Derek Osgood
John, please reply…
Hi John,
Not sure if you can help with this or not, but maybe you can put me in touch w/someone that can. Also, this is not urgent, so feel free to respond post Philadelphia!
George and I are booked on the Valor sailing on 11/23. My parents, sister, and niece are all joining us. My question is related to a shore excursion in Cozumel. It is called Dolphinaris (I think) and is just for kids–gives them the oppty to play with the dolphins. According to the Carnival site, a parent must accompany and pay as an observer. What we’re trying to find out is if they limit the # of observer tickets…because, of course, all 5 of us adults would like to go with her and see her experience this once in a lifetime excursion.
Is there a way to confirm that before we get on the ship? If only one observer can accompany her, then the rest of us will book other excursions ahead of time.
As always…thanks for all you do. Also…almost forgot–will see you in Philly this weekend. George will be with me if it’s Saturday, my sister is making the trek with me if it’s Sunday. Either way, can’t wait to enjoy the event and celebrate year round cruising coming to our hometown of Baltimore!
Lisa and George Kilmartin
Hi John! Sounds like it’s a good idea that you aren’t on the Fantasy right now, or you’d be headed back to port! Hope they’re able to get everything fixed and be on their way again soon. I think it’s one time you outwitted Mr. Murphy!
See you in Philly!!
Oh and tell the baseball teams to bugger off somewhere else, because I already have a hotel for Saturday night.
–Adam
Well I guess by now you know the game was called because of rain. Bugger. Today doesn’t look much better. They are even talking about snow. Aghhh. Who knows when the series will end. Please give us some details about where in Philly they are planning to do the commercial. I am trying to figure out the parking etc. Hope we get to join you.
Jo and Dave
Hi John,
Sorry to hear about your disappointment about the Liberty. I like that exotic Eastern itinerary. Now I just want you as a fellow guest on the Dream in NY.
This morning on the early TODAY broadcast they had the video of the beach ball in Dallas. Didn’t mention Carnival though – bugger.
If I can talk anyone into driving to Philly, I’ll try & make it.
Enjoy the day. Can’t wait for the next blog thingy,
Hugs,
Carol
Hi John:
Rendevous Spaghetti on a plate. (RSVP)
Guess we won’t go with you and the lovely Natasha Russian Tour Guide to the Hermitage’ Gold Room on Liberty’s cancelled June Cruise to the Baltic afterall.
When I received the e-mail advising of the change in Liberty’s summer schedule I used one of your expressions, “Bugger All” surely this is a spam e-mail. Didn’t sound right in American English though. So I tried a few other terms.
There are three choices during our vacation time slot, Emerald Princess, Eurodam, and Rotterdam. I would be interested in your take as to the best choice.
Hope I can get on your phone call which is a great idea by the way. I was looking forward to VIP privileges on what would have been our 11th Carnival Cruise which I don’t have with any other line. ( kind of whiney huh)
Speaking with the Carnival person about the change, I realized why we are loyal to Carnival, there is a policy to do the right thing, like in this instance, help with the airline cancellation or change fees. None of the alternatives leave from the London area which is our booked destination.
I suppose the contract of passage written up by the law firm, Dewey, Cheatum and Howe, absolves Carnival of any responsibility, for anything, but the Company comes through to make the change as painless as possible. Thank you for that. A moral position.
Disappointed, but still a fan. Regards to you and Heidi.
John, I was one of the people booked on the Liberty for Europe next year, and the main reason I booked it was because you were going to be the CD. I don’t want to cruise on Holland America as I am not 80 years old or anywhere near it, and Princess isn’t going where I wnt to go. Will we be able to simply cancel?
Jeff
So apparently my comments on the cancellation of Liberty are to be edited out of the blog’s comment section. Perfect. Cancel the trip, offer nothing of value, treat the advance customer rudely and then ignore the comments. Maybe we will just go away. I am more disappointed this morning than I was last night. In less than one day, Carnival has ruined a decade of good will and good feelings on my part.
I supposed this one will be moderated out as well.
How unfortunate that one of the few European itineraries has been eliminated … the current economic climate is wreaking havoc on even Carnival’s fleet positioning. Good for east coast guests wishing to sail to Caribbean climates but not so good for European and Russian guests wishing to sail and explore the Mediterranean locales.
Where in the world will John be next year now????? Sailing out of Baltimore still on Carnival Liberty or paddling up and down the Thames in a dingy…. using his raspberry for his blog thingy whilst taking care of and being super-dad with new Thingy?
The Flying Dutchman
If I were on one of the European cruises I would be so disappointed, but I would hope that I would understand why. I am just glad that my husband and I went on our European cruise last month before the market went nuts. I can only imagine how disappointed you are. I hope for your sake the market decides to get back on track and stay there so you can go back to your beloved Europe and be near Heidi.
Before I forget John, and in case you have not done it, you have to watch Saturday Night Live on Saturday night. It is on at 11:30. It is the last one before the US election. It is quite possibly the funniest political satire you will see.
Hope all goes well with the plans for Philly this week. Looks like the World Series is on hold for a while, so that should make your plans back on target.
Where is our Jaime? She seems to me MIA.
Keep smiling John, my best to Heidi.
Wait… there’s a World Series going on? Who knew!
Urgent please reply
John, Have always had some good laughs with reading your blog. Cruised with you on the Liberty in April 2006. We have always enjoyed cruising Carnival, 6 times so far, but our upcoming cruise seems to be jinxed from the start. We originally booked Valor in May for the Eastern carribbean. As you may know, Carnival decided for some unknown reason decided to change the Valor to all western itineraries. We had just returned from the western, and on this trip we were bringing our sons, and their girlfriends and they had already been western, same ports as well.
So long story made short, we had to switch weeks, and go one week later and do Pride, since it was going to eastern, and nothing was going eastern the week prior. After many calls we got this settled as far as rooms and pricing.
Now, we are back in another situation. We are in limbo as to what rooms we will have, and when we will find out. We had looked forward to doing another Spirit class, since we have been on Miracle before, but now this will be our third time on Liberty.
I understand we are not in the same bad way as the European cruisers, but we are just getting frustrated. Carnival doesn’t seem to know what direction they want to go in the last few months. We have always, with the exception of one cruise, really enjoyed the Carnival experience.
But, I have to admit, the constant changes are exhausting, and making us a little leery about what we may expect next.
Can you tell me if this is all of the changes we can expect? We had started to look at booking another cruise, but I am not sure we want to do that until things get settled down. Ironically, we were looking into a possible European cruise in 2010. Guess that won’t happen.
Anyway, keep up the good work, and good luck in your new ventrues with Carnival.
john i am concerned about you and heidi as i know you were to be the cruise director on the liberty. i hope somehow you get a position where you are near heidi my friend. sorry not to see you in philly but know there will be lots of bloggers there for you. enjoy one of those steak sandwiches while you are there! we leave podunk on friday for sunny (warm) florida. then on the 21st, the splendor! woo hoo!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John,
About Carnival Dream – are they changing the sail dates?
In a scan of a letter sent to Liberty cruisers, it seemed like the sail dates for Dream had changed slightly?
bill
Aha found the scan again.
http://sherryforums.com/sherry/other/X6100tmp.jpg
It refers to Carnival Dream sailings of 9/18, 9/30, 10/11, and a 10/23 Transatlantic.
The schedule on Carnival.com lists: 9/21, 10/3, 10/15 and a 10/27 crossing.
????????????
Hi John,
I just wanted you to know that the beach ball made the local newscast here in Denver, Colorado – it looked HUGE! and FUN! I think that was what Carnival was hoping for.
Regards,
Anne E.
JOHN PLEASE REPLY
John, I’ve been reading your blog for a long time now – great job! Now, a few posts ago you said it, and I have to ask – when will Princess get their act together and get a blog going? I promise you won’t lose me as a reader, nor will Captain Albert, but I am a dedicated Princess fan and would love to hear from someone over there. Any insight you can offer as to whether Princess is planning something and/or when we can expect to see something (in the form of a blog) would be much appreciated. You’re our inside operator!
They’ve got some really great things they’re planning on Ruby and I think they’ve really been listening to their passengers. You should finagle a visit for her christening, coming up soon.
Take Care and Thanks!
Chris
(just another Cruise Critic)
Hope to see everyone in Philly. My Mom has been staying with us in Ohio following knee replacement surgery and I plan to return her home to Md (50 miles from Philly or Baltimore) on Saturday so I can be there for Sunday. I’ll try and change her dr appt so I can possibly be there Saturday. If I cannot make it I’ll enjoy seeing the video.
Also looking forward to sailing from the Port of Baltimore during 2009. Sure wish I were doing the European cruise; I’ll go buy a lottery ticket, just maybe…………
Hi John.
Needless to say I am pretty disappointed. Not only that I shall not be able to take the planned cruise on Carnival Liberty this August, but also that I heard it first on the blog – nobody from Carnival has yet got in contact with me.
Ho hum.
John, please reply
John, as you know I’m a travel agent. I had a group on the Freedom that was to sail the Grand Med next summer and unfortuanately those itineraries were cancelled as well. It was extremely dissappointing yes but unfortunately business decisions have to be made and the greater good considered. Stinks, but what can you do…!
Well, midday yesterday I called into the wonderful reservations staff at Carnival for a quote for a client. I already knew about the Liberty and knew that they had no doubt be bombarded by clients and agents alike who were upset and demanding options and answers. When Cynthia answered, she did so with the usual chipper Carnival voice but you could tell that there was an underlying tone that the day hadn’t been a peachy one so far. So the first comment out of my mouth was “I’m not calling about the Liberty, I’m calling to send another guest on a great vacation”. The frustrated tone vanished. Human nature has us looking for someone to blame when something doesn’t go as planned. Unfortunately, the res agents, as the first point of contact are the hardest hit. As if they single handedly made this happen!
Cynthia was great and as usual went above and beyond for me. The quote that I sought was actually for the sailing that I am heading out on on the 15th of Nov on the Glory (18 days…YAY!!!). While speaking to her, we noticed a pricing difference between mine and my clients and long story short, Cynthia did a bit of magic and now has one heck of a happy agent on her hands. I made sure that she knew that she was appreciated and she had managed to move a company that was already “top shelf” in my books, up yet another notch! She asked that I do her a favour in return…have a great time! Alrighty then!! By the end of the call the frustration was gone and we were both joking and laughing….Carnival style! I hope all of the res agents got at least one similar call yesterday when the news was launched. Anyway, this got me thinking (yikes!). While onboard, we get to shake the hands and say thank you to those who make our vacation special. But is there anything more general where we can publicly say thanks to those on and OFF the ships so that we can also have the opportunity to thank those who helped along the way to get there? Something maybe on the Carnival.com site like “Did a member of our team make your day?” (with a copy sent to the hero of course!). Cynthia made my day yesterday and I want the world to know it! There are many others that do not specifically work ON the ship – you meet quite a few at the embarkation/debarkation port alone so I’m sure other agents and guests have similar stories that they would like to share. Just a thought….
And hey – the other day was fantastic!!! A big BRAVO to you and the rest of the team that made the magic happen!!! Well done!! Can’t wait to see what happens in Philly!
Cheers!
Dot
Hi John,
I stumbled onto your blog a few weeks ago after booking our second cruise with CCL and haven’t stopped reading since! Absolutely amazing reading about everyones experiences onboard the different ships in the fleet and in all of the different ports.
So far we have managed to enjoy the Holiday (our first cruise, as it was for you if I remember correctly) and loved the grand ole gal so much we will be back onboard her this Thanksgiving headed back to Cozumel, but with a balcony this time. We hate to see her go, but look forward to everything that comes with a newer, bigger ship.
Thanks for the great reading, looking at trying the Bahamas next summer, unless you have a better suggestion that is
Regards,
Brian & Mary
John – we were one of the couple who had booked the Liberty for September 6 on deck 8E. The bad thing is this cruise was only about $4,000 for the great cabin and any cruise on Princess is going to be a great deal more. Carnival only offered $50 per cabin as a credit towards a new cruise. That doesn’t seem fair to us. Anyway – we sure love Carnival.
No one from Carnival has contacted me either. Even after writing two unpublished comments here. Never thought it would have happened but in less than 24 hours Carnival has disappointed me three or four times over. Carnival owes us money deposited for the phantom cruise and I am furious about the way we have been treated. I want that refund today.
Hi John, Sad news indeed about the Liberty. We were booked for a late May cruise and are very disappointed. I know it’s even worse for you….it would have been a good posting for you! Carnival has yet to contact us, but we called and canceled (the guy actually said that the cruise was NOT canceled, it was just going to be out of Miami now!, …….not funny!). Your other cruise lines’ itineraries are not so convenient and we already had booked our airfare to London. We managed to locate almost the same cruise on the same dates leaving out of Amsterdam on a competitor’s line, so I guess we will now be able to make some comparisons. But, the itinerary was the most important part of our cruise and I really really really want to go to St Petersburg and will be able to do so. I do understand Carnival’s reluctance to continue in the European sector at this uncertain time, but hope that things will settle down (at least airfares should decline since oil prices have gone down so much!). And I’m pleased to report that they showed your huge beach ball in Dallas on the news here in Halifax (Nova Scotia) Canada and talked about Carnival fun. So, I’m going to try something different and will hope that it all goes well. I’ll let you know next summer! Gloria
good thing you “missed” the Fantasy – she had a power outage after sailing…. but from what I understand all is well now…
John, Please Reply!
With all these new commercial tapings out there, will any of them be in the Southwest Florida area? I was curious because if so I would really like participate in this event. I am a Carnival employee and take much pride in our company and would love to help out if there is anything in Florida.
Look forward to hearing from you,
Dan Polulak
Club O2 Director
John, you are a Cruise Director. Don’t try to solve all of Carnival’s repositioning problems and upset customers. We love you and you are an awesome dedicated employee. My pet peeve in life is when individuals take their frustrations out on the only employee of a company they “feel” they know!
Keep up the positive PR for Carnival…we are patient, loyal customers!
Hi John,
So glad to watch the big event and also glad you got your cigar cutter replaced! You must have Heidi teach you how to pack. lol
I was wondering a few things.
1) Any chance you’ll be on the Splendor for New Year’s?
2) How’s Heidi doing and when do we get to hear from her again?
3) What part of England are you from?
4)I am also planning another cruise in a few months and was wondering where the dancer Katherine Harper was? She was the most amazing dancer when we were on our last cruise and was hoping to see her again. Any chance she’ll be on the Ecstasy? I live in Houston, and was thinking about that cruise for the spring.
Thank you very much. Please Reply
John:
I know it is not your fault that the Liberty European cruises were canceled, but, this is the second cruise in four months that Carnival has canceled on us. We will not be sailing on Holland America or Princess, but, Royal Caribbean or Celebrity who will still be sailing the Baltic cruises. Sorry we will not be sailing with you again next summer. Best wishes to you Heidi and little Thingie. I will still follow your blog.
Marie
John -
We will definitely be at the Philadelphia event, wearing our Mexican blankets bought in Cozumel many cruises ago.
I think it also likely that we will be at the Blogger’s get together.
Best
Jon and Kathy
Dear John
What a bummer!!!!
We were so looking forward to the Western Europe cruise next September and having you as our CD. Carnival made European cruising affordable for most people on this side of the pond. It is true that the airfares add to the price of the cruise but most people when travelling to Europe appreciate that and budget accordingly. As a canadian we still have to pay to get ourselves down to the states (and sometimes that can be quite as expensive!!)
We don’t know what we are going to do now as the transatlantic has too many “at sea” days for Harold to enjoy it fully. I do hope Carnival will reconsider their change and do Europe again in 2010.
Having said all this I do hope things will work out for you personally as I know it would have been ideal for you to be on the European run and being close to Heidi and the little one.
John ,
I feel bad about your plans going down the drain, now that Liberty
will not be sailing in Europe anymore. All those disappointed people
will hopefully be able to figure things out with their vacations too. Some
good news…I think we will be joining you in Philly this weekend!!! Me,
Ted, and the kids. I hope we can make it. Philadelphia is
about 3 hrs or so from us here in Hudson Valley, NY.
One thing, Stephanie— Need mor Info about where we bloggers will meet up and time,
maybe in am Email or some kind of update, PLEASE
Sue
Hi John.
Just to let you know how things are going re cancelled cruise.
I had booked 8 months ago, and had a fare of £812 pp, gratuities included. Looking around, I’m now looking at paying almost £300 more each, plus tips. Is that the real reason why Liberty isn’t coming to Europe… they sold it too cheap? A $50 on board credit won’t help much. It’s only 10% of the deposit I paid. That won’t get me back on board Carnival.
When I had a cancelled cruise on QM2 I recieved a refund of my deposit together with the same amount again as credit against a future cruise. That seemed fair, and I have booked again with Cunard.
I realise that both lines, together with my current favourite, Princess, are all owned by the same company – well, I’ve got six letters that Carnival Corporation should look closely at.
NCL. MSC. I’ve already had one great cruise with NCL – and if Carnival will not treat me as a valued client (and, taking 4-5 cruises a year and at “Elite” status with Princess, if I’m not valuable who is?) – then maybe I should spend my money with Carnival’s competitors.
I’ve also had one cruise with Thomson – and while the old ships have shortcomings, the staff – cabin, restaurant and entertainment – are by far the best I have seen. Now they are owned by the German giant TUI, maybe they will get some new tonnage – and if so they may well shake up the industry.
Carnival have grown very rapidly from small beginnings. It is just as easy for them to go the other direction – and alienating thousands of passengers is the best way to do it.
My travel agent has not bothered to return my call yet – I hope that when they do there is a suitable gesture from Carnival. But I won’t hold my breath.
Basically, John, I’m bl***y annoyed. I know it’s not your doing – but you wear the company’s badge – you are on the front row – I’m not making a fuss in the lobby – you don’t need to call security – but last year I spent over £10,000 with various Carnival brands. The question is – will I continue to do so?
A holiday is something you look forward to. I read your blog entries about the ports of call I was due to visit. I have told people about the holiday I was looking forward to.
It’s not like a mass-produced car. If someone steals my car, or it is wrecked in a smash – no problem, Mercedes made thousands just the same as mine. I can pick up the phone and have another one delivered to my door.
As for a Baltic cruise in August 09 – well, I can go on Holland America’s “Rotterdam”. That will not have the same atmostphere as Carnival. A replacement unlike the original. A burger instead of a steak. Budweiser instead of Coors.
Currently, what is looking good is something completely different. MSC Rhapsody for 11 nights around the Med. £969 including flights.
Ah well, I’ll get my own back. Is there anyone from Carnival who wants to book a caravan holiday? I’ll take your booking, but please don’t be upset if I give you a tent instead………….
A slightly p******d off CaravanParkManager
Dear John:
Have just returned from a cruise on the Emerald Princess and have been catching up with all the blogs, hence this late question: I am one of those interested in cruising Europe and I fully understand about the current economy and the costs of flying to Europe. I certainly wouldn’t mind using Holland America or Princess, as you suggested, but is there any way, in the future, that we can lump our cruise credits together? After all, it’s the same Company, right??? Could you possibly bring this to the attention of the “Powers That Be???” Many have been thinking along these same lines, often hesitating to try another cruise line because of losing the credits.
Joko Joan
Great Job.