One of the things I get asked a lot both here on the ships and via the blog is to arrange public on stage wedding proposals. While I am always happy to do this I have never quite understood why some men feel the need to do this in public. I have proposed three times to women in my life. The first time was via the mail when I wrote to Brooke Shields fan club address proclaiming my total love for her and asked her to marry me and that after the ceremony we move to our own Blue Lagoon. She never replied……..looking back though her non reply may have had something to do with the fact that the letter was written on a pair of my underwear.
The second time I proposed ……well……..that was a little more public as both sets of parents were there and I thought that was the chivalrous thing to do. She said “yes” but in the end things didn’t work out and one day she woke up, realized I was an ugly bastard and buggered off. She is now living in New York, happily married to a great guy who doesn’t fart and make her vomit when she sees him naked……..which is never good for a relationship.
As for Heidi…….well……I was so positive that when I asked her to marry me that she would say “NO, Nichtus, Buggernsie Offen Sie” that I decided to ask her alone………just the two of us …… in the cabin on the Imagination.
She was supposed to come back to the cabin from work at 11:30 pm. I had a rose……….laying on a silk sheet……..with the ring lying next to it……….I had her favourite song playing on the CD player…….the lights were dimmed……..I had my best underpants on………nothing else……..just my best underpants…..all was set…………11:30 pm came and went…………and she eventually arrived at 12:45 am having had decided to go to the crew lounge with her friends…………bastard.
By the time she got back to the cabin everything was ruined……….and it wasn’t only the rose that had wilted.
Anyway, I asked……..she said yes……….and then we went to sleep……..and that was that.
Looking back I wish I had done something more spectacular……Heidi deserved better. However, I would never have done it on stage. I have seen the majority of stage engagements end in smiles and tears of joy, however I have been there when things have gone tits up.
One such time was on the Carnival Liberty……..sailing into Venice. A chap had asked me to arrange something on deck and we did the whole thing projected onto the big screen as we sailed past the island of Lido just before the entrance to Venice itself………..well……………she said “no” …….and in front of the entire deck and live on the giant screen………she shook her head ……….. once ……..then twice…………….said “no”………..and ran away in tears……….and everyone looked at me………as though it was my fault………………….bugger.
Well, what do you say to someone who has spent all his money on a potato-sized diamond ………. gone to all the trouble to arrange a Med cruise and a Venetian proposal…………and in front of hundreds of people………….she says “No.” Well, there was little to say. I said how sorry we all felt and that he should sell the diamond a buy a Porsche. He walked away in tears………and there was bugger all I could do about it. I have no idea what happened the rest of the cruise. I called them and spoke briefly to the lady but she obviously felt uncomfortable and probably hid under the bed for the rest of the cruise. He was so in love with her and I guess she wasn’t. Maybe he had bad breath…..maybe he had a small thingy…..maybe ……..well, fill in the blank ……..I guess we will never know.
Anyway, because of this I am always nervous when I am asked to arrange a stage proposal and I did one last night at the show. The couple were so young……I mean he said he was 18 but looked like he was 12 and she looked even younger………..their wedding reception will be at Chuck E. Cheese.
Now……he asked her on bended knee and she said yes……..then during the obligatory crying he put the ring on her finger……..and then pulled another ring out of his pocket and when I asked on the microphone what this was………….he told me it was his engagement ring………. what?
A male engagement ring? This modern man thing is total bollocks. Today’s “men” exfoliate, moisturize and wax. They carry “man bags” and wear “mandals” and now, it seems, they are stretching their sticky little fingers towards that shiniest of feminine symbols…… the engagement ring …………..God help us all.
I guess it is a way to be visually marked as unavailable, in the same way that one might brand a cow’s arse…..and anyway I feel it is my duty to point out to any man who is thinking of getting married to look at the word engagement carefully……..and you will see the word “gag” right in the middle of it….and that my male blogging single friends…….. will sum up the rest of your life.
Time for today’s questions……….here we go.
Mark Asked:
John Please reply! : )
I just finished reading Carnival’s Premier issue of Funville Times.What a great story about Bill Filomena who has cruised 41 times with Carnival in 18 months!
John, it strikes me that Carnival is positioned wonderfully to appeal to the baby boomers as well as the Gen Xers and the others. After all Carnival is the Fun ship.
I am wondering how far off is that we see more of the Bill’s? I worry and actually hope that Carnival leads the way in maintaining value for money cruises. I am nearly 50 and have raised 4 children. My wife and I have always had to watch the nickels and dimes – no as I get older, I have a bit more disposable income. No one owes me anything – but I truly want and envision taking a cruise with Carnival every year – maybe a second every year on one of Carnival’s sister lines!
S0 John please tell me that long term that Bob Dickinson and Micky Arison, don’t depart from this successful formula!
I know Carnival is in the business of the bottom line, but like the world of the mouse, you folks do make dreams come true. I wish everyone could experience one Carnival cruise in their lifetime. Wow what a wonderful retirement dream!
John Says:
Hello Mark.
What a brillinat way to start today’s Q and A so in case I forget let me say thank you. Also let me just mention that around two years ago Bob Dickinson retired and was replaced by our new President and C.E.O. Mr. Gerry Cahill who has done a terrific job continuing and improving upon the foundation that Bob set.Well, the simple answer to your question is “yes.” You know when our founder Ted Arison (whose statue I have always felt should be built at the entrance to the Port of Miami) started Carnival Cruise Lines his belief was that cruising should be something that would appeal and be available to the masses……..not just the privileged. And so he founded this great company. Since then his son Micky has taken his father’s example and expanded on the dream and now we have a Carnival product that while enhanced with iconic features, fantastic food and extraordinary shows the foundations remain the same……..affordable fun for all.
I hope your dream of cruising twice a year every year comes true.
Best wishes to you and the family.
JohnBeverly B. Asked:
Sorry to bother- know you are busy
Lot of questions on cruise critic about Inaugural 9/21/09- Carnival Dream.Will they have the naming ceremony in Italy for our cruise?
Any specials for 1st sailing?
What is the earliest you can board?
Thanks for your help
Cheri B.
Kisses to KyeJohn Says:
Hello Cheri
Thanks so much for letting me know about the thread thingy on Cruise Critic. I always appreciate the chance to provide all my friends there with the current and correct information. So, let me answer your questions.
The naming ceremony with the yet to be named godmother will in fact be in New York …..not Italy. Details and dates are still being worked on and I will let you know all I can as soon as I can.The first sailing will be very special as you will be the first group of guests to get to see her. Unlike Carnival Liberty, Carnival Freedom and Carnival Splendor your Carnival Dream will not have had a travel agent cruise before the first inaugural. The ship will sail from the yard in Monfalcone without guests (except me) on the morning of the 17th and arrive ready to board guests on the morning of the 21st. During this time the crew will prepare for the inaugural cruise which starts on the 21st.
As for embarkation …well we aim to start this as we have done in the past in Europe starting at 10:30 am or sooner if we can. The ship will be ready and waiting and anyone who walks up that gangway on September 21st will be the luckiest and hopefully the most proud guests in the cruise industry…….I on the other hand will be a miserable sod as I will be walking off the gangway to fly home ……wishing no doubt that when I was asked if I wanted to be the CD on your Carnival Dream I had said “yes.”
Thanks Cherie. I hope you and the family are well and may I ask that you add the above to the thread thingy
Best wishes
JohnCaptain Dan Asked:
Hi John, (please reply)
We are cruising with you on the on the MS Freedom in ten days. Just want you to know that we follow your blog, and we love it. My wife Martha writes occasionally.Still looking for that Bridge tour, LOL. Might have to sacrifice and send my parents on the galley tour instead.
My wife and I first cruised with Carnival twenty three years ago on the brand new beautiful MS Holiday on our honeymoon. After thirteen cruises with Carnival, we are honored to be with the most senior CD!
We would be honored to have our picture taken with you at the past guest party.
I am a HUGE fan of Carnival, and please take a look at “my Carnival”.
http://good-times.webshots.com/album/559651383onqSAD
Our past Carnival cruises.
http://community.webshots.com/user/airmanship
Look forward to meeting you.
Dan from Arkansas.
Delta Airlines CaptainJohn Says:
Hello Captain Dan
Please may I kindly ask that you drop me a note with your cabin number at the information or Guest Services Desk as it is now known when you board? I loved your website and I am sure every one of the bloggers did as well. I hope you will have many more memories to add when I see you next month. I promise to do all I can to make this cruise your very best yet.See you soon and best wishes to all the family.
JohnBarbara B. Asked:
I can only imagine being away from my new baby as long as you do. You certainly are a dedicated employee and daddy because we all know that she will only want designer clothes and shoes and only the best schools. Need more pictures.
Sincerely,John please reply
I apologize if you have gotten this before. I’m having computer problems.I was writing about the loyalty program. If I take 1 three day cruise I get 1 point but if I take a 14 day cruise I still only get 1 point. The closer that I get to the elusive platinum level the more that it bothers me. I think you should get at least 2 points for a two week cruise. Even Valentine, my service dog has been on 5 cruises with the last 2 being 2 week cruises.
It’s time for a change I think. Any hope it could be soon?
John you are doing a great job and I can’t even Barbara B..John Says:
Hello Barbara
Kye is already dripping in designer gear and whereas before I worked hard to afford nice things for Heidi and I ……..all my effort is now to provide the best life I possibly can for Kye …………. and my dream of owning an Aston Martin has disappeared forever.I know many people feel like you that guests who book longer cruises should get more points towards Platinum status and they may be right. There are those however who say that taking a three-day or four-day cruise should count the same…..and they may be right to. This is something that our Chief Marketing Officer Jim Berra is currently looking at along with the entire rewards program and I know he will make sure that when and if changes are made that he insures that our program continues to be the best at sea.
Actually…it would be interesting to ask others their opinion on this….so I will. Bloggers – what do you think and what would you like to see. We have discussed before that the old thermos gift was outdated and we got that changed. So, what would you like to see………are you someone who thinks the points should be the same for a 7, 8 or longer cruise as three day…or not? I remind you that many important people who make decisions read the blog so if this is a subject where you would like your opinion heard………post away.
Barbara………one thing is for certain. Valentine deserves his own Platinum card and the next time you cruise please tell me and I will make sure that Valentine is our first four legged Platinum card holder.
Best wishes to all
JohnKathy Asked:
Hi John,
Please reply
You had a post today that I just have to answer to. I have copied and pasted it.Ruth G. Asked:
John
I had posted a question on Wednesday and it’s now Friday night and still no answer and so I found your work e mail address which is on cruise critic. There is not much point in offering your customers a service if you are not going to answer them is there?I am on the Carnival Glory and want a table for two as last time our table companions were hideous.
My details are:
Ruth and Al G.
October 24th sailing
Suite # – 7288
Want table for two by window – late sitting
Reply please when confirmedThis poster just infuriates me, they want this and they want that. If they took the time to read your blog, you have mentioned many times to allow 5 days for a reply because of the amount of emails that you receive.
Another point that ruffled my feathers is when she said that if you are going to offer a service and if you don’t fulfill that service why offer it. You offer these services because you care about US the passengers. There is not one other cruise line that I have seen anyone that works for them offer and do the things that you do, that is what makes you so special. If she wanted a table for two BY A WINDOW, then she should ask the head person of the dining room, but to demand that you do it for her just got to me. I could honestly see her asking for a table for two, but to demand it by a window just went too far.
Now to the reason that I was going to write to you. I do not know where to write to send a letter of commendation about the PVP that I have been working with. Her name is Nisha Hicks and John, she is like you, she cares about the passengers. We ran into a problem with a cruise that was coming up and I explained everything to her and she said “No Problem Kathy, this is what I am going to do for you.” Well to make a long story short, she saved the day and I just want someone to know at Carnival that they have a PVP that goes the extra mile for their passengers. So if you could send me someone’s name or pass this one to someone, I would greatly appreciate it.
Your Bloggy Thingy fan always
Kathy
PS, please send a hug to Kye from one of her American aunties, and say HI to Heidi for me. ThanksJohn Says:
Hello Kathy
Thanks for the support and I had better not say anything else after the ending of yesterday’s blog …………but again………thank you.It was wonderful to read about Nisha and I have taken the liberty to send this to her direct supervisors and her department head. People like Nisha are what make Carnival what has and always will be…..the World’s Most Popular Cruise Line. This is also the case because people like you sail on our ships and their love of life and spirited personalities make this cruise line …… incomparable.
Thanks Kathy and I send my best wishes to you and the family
JohnCruisin’lovebirds Asked:
John Please Respond:
We are on the Triumph 9/19 and plan to bring Jorge Solano a little taste of Florida since he has a back ground from here. I might not be able to get Florida oranges on the plane. Any personality hints you can give me? We are celebrating our 32nd anniversary and so looking forward to this vacation. JanetJohn Says:
Hello Janet
How kind. What George really needs is a new book of jokes as his are either stolen from me or as funny as setting fire to your own hair. If not that I can tell you that he has a secret fetish for hot sauces…….the spicier the better. Can you remind me a few days before you sail please? Have a great time.Best wishes and thanks again for your kindness
JohnSusanne Asked:
John or Stephanie please answer.
I see the recipe for the melting cake is on Carnival’s website and we really appreciate it:
8 oz semisweet chocolate
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
7 eggs, divided use
6 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup flourPreheat oven to 375 degrees. Melt chocolate and butter; cool 10 minutes. In separate bowl, mix four eggs with sugar. Whisk. Add flour and whisk. Add remaining three eggs. Add egg mixture to chocolate mixture. Pour in individual ramekins. Bake until just done, about 15-20 minutes (interior will be melting). Serve with vanilla ice cream.
My questions are what kind of flour (plain or self-rising) and how many individual servings does this make?
Your blog is so entertaining and so informative and everyone appreciates all of the time and effort you put into it and the assistance to all.John Says:
Hello
Here is the answer from our Chef.“You need to use plain flour and the receipe mentioned is for 8 – 10 portions”.
Many thanks Chef Harry
Patti & Wayne Asked:
JOHN, PLEASE REPLY.
Hello again from Boston. Can’t wait to see you on the Dream 2/6/2010! Quick question about disembarkation….we have an early flight leaving from Orlando(necessary) and were wondering if there is such a thing as VIP Self Assist….meaning, does our VIP status allow us to disembark ahead of the normal self-assist folks??? If not, does Carnival still offer the early flight disembark process? As time draws nearer, am getting more concerned about our necessary flight time as Port Canaveral is so far away from the airport!
Thanks and can’t wait to see you then.
PattiJohn Says:
Hello Patti & Wayne
Just in case I have never mentioned this before………I love Boston. As a VIP you can disembark first using the self assist program which should start at approx 7 am – 7:30 am. If you don’t want this option you will put your luggage outside of your cabin door the last night of the cruise and you will be given tag number one which means you will be the first to disembark after the self assist guests have left the vessel. Is this OK? Please let me know if you have any follow up questions and I will do my best to help you.
Best wishes
JohnSarah M. Asked:
Hi John! I’m really enjoying reading your blog and just wanted to ask you a question.We are going on our honeymoon cruise on the Conquest on 9/27 and we were wondering how we go about being contestants on the newlywed game. Just let me know if you can.
Thanks John! Hope you have a wonderful trip!
Sarah McGowan (soon-to-be Hathaway)John Says:
Hello Sarah
Congratulations on your forthcoming marriage and if you can, please post a reminder a week or so before you sail so I can ask Chris the CD of the Carnival Conquest to help you be part of the game. Maybe I can find you a little gift as well.
Best wishes to you both
JohnCarol S. Asked:
Dear John,
Again, you gave in to someone who complained. And about the rain – it’s only water, the clothes will dry. Did you remember to mention it rains a lot in the summer in the Caribbean? But only for short periods of time – and sometimes only in selected spots. When I was there with my nephew 10 years ago, we were at Paradise Point when the heavens opened up, but our vantage point showed that the ship and other areas were in bright sunlight.Anyway, how are you feeling? You probably keep getting colds because you are in contact with loads of people who probably pass their bad germs to you. Like when my (former) friend greeted me at the airport before our trip on the Valor. He gives me a big hug & kiss and then tells me he has a cold. Well guess who got the worst cold ever halfway through the cruise, which turned into strep throat when I got home. But I hope you’re feeling good soon.
Speaking of the Valor, I never responded to the comments about children in the Piano Bars. Why take the children into the Piano Bar in the first place when there are wonderful age-appropriate facilities just for them? In 2005 on the Valor Ed Rocks was at the Piano Bar (His last cruise). His repertoire was a bit raunchy to say the least, but since there were no children there, it did not seem inappropriate. Truthfully I’ve heard far worse in the Dance Club – as far back as ‘87 on the Jubilee.
Carol Asked:
JOHN – PLEASE REPLY:
John, your idea of having dinner at Kevin’s restaurant sounds like a great idea. Have you heard from Kevin? Will he be on BC3? It may be a matter of logistics for some (me included), since the restaurant is on Long Island and not in the City. A car is definitely needed to get there. And since I don’t drive, I’ll have to bribe someone to take me there. Also, when were you thinking of doing it? Will you have any free days in NY? So keep us posted. I cannot wait to see you again.
Feel good, and my best to Heidi and your little Angel,
Hugs,
CarolJohn Says:
Hello Carol
It seems like ages since I have written to you and as one of our long time bloggers it is always a pleasure when I do. The dance club on the Jubilee……..oh wow does that bring back memories. I must admit that like you and Miss Laura Divethingy and many others I could not understand why any parent would take their young children to a bar after midnight…….times really have changed.I am waiting to put the plans together to see if we can have lunch or dinner with Kevin during my time in New York. I will be talking more about New York later this week and will include the dates I will be there as well. If we do go I know that we will make sure you come with us…….even if you have to ride in the trunk
Thanks so much for all the kind words and I hope to see you soon.
Best wishes
JohnJake S. Asked:
John,
The ship is a dream! PLEASE REPLY,“Will the Ship Have full court Basketball”?
Jake-John Says:
Hello Jake
Tell you what mate – let’s ask Boris shall we to take a photo of the sports deck and ask him to send the dimensions of the basketball court on your Carnival Dream. Your blog is fantastic Jake…….congratulations.
Your mate
John
That’s all for today…….except to say thank you to someone who was skeptical about Carnival and was a loyal RCI fan……so let’s see what the lovely Cindy had to say about her recent Carnival cruise:
The food on this cruise was our biggest and most pleasant surprise. In our opinion everything having to do with food or food service was top notch on the Splendor. My husband and I kept looking at each other and shaking our heads in disbelief, because we honestly could not get over how much better the food was – in taste, variety, quality, and presentation than what we’ve had on our recent cruises. We thought it was very evident that the Splendor was using much higher quality meat and seafood than our recent experiences on Royal Caribbean. It’s a little harder to compare the food to Princess since it’s been over 2 years since we cruised with them, but the dining room food seemed more similar to Princess than Royal Caribbean.
I thought the Splendor was clearly better than the other ships we’ve been on in the Lido. We’re really not buffet people, and usually spend most cruises trying to avoid eating there. We often struggle to find something to eat and end up filling our plates with junk we don’t really want. I was pleasantly overwhelmed by the variety in the Lido. The offerings were 2 different buffet lines with entrees, soups, salads, and a carving station, a huge dessert and fruit bar, a Deli where you can get custom made sandwiches, an Asian stir-fry station, a Burrito station, a Tandoori station, and a Rotisserie which offered chicken, potatoes, corn, and a variety of salads. Outside by the main pool is the Pizzeria which offers a large selection of pizzas and will do custom orders as well as calzones, and grills which are cook fresh hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs and steak sandwiches.
The adults (and one teenager) ate at the Pinnacle on Tuesday night, and thought it was superb. The food was flavorful and plentiful, cooked perfectly, and presented beautifully. It was also a LOT of food! We conked out pretty early that night from over-eating!
Pricing – I’ve found cruise prices to be higher on Royal Caribbean than on Carnival or Princess. My family saved about $7,000 when we “jumped ship” from the Mariner to the Splendor for this cruise, and the price difference between the Voyager and the Conquest for next March (2010) was about $1,500 for the two of us when we made our reservation.
When Host Mach sent me this I was thrilled and I have shared it with all at the top at Carnival. So, thanks to Host Mach for letting me share this and thanks especially to Cindy whose words are hopefully echoing round the office of a certain Mr. Goldstein who as we speak is probably having to change his underwear.
I also want to apologize….of course the Celebration had past guest parties……I had totally forgotten about her last few years of sailing. I see that there are folks looking for them on eBay and I will begin the challenge to see if we can make pins to sell in the on board shops not only for the ships of today but the ones of yesterday as well…….my apologies again for the misinformation.
I have also decided……after much soul searching not to post any more comments from Ruth and Al. I have already written to them privately so they know this ahead of this blog. I see that their comments have some of you all worked up and I understand and appreciate your loyal support. However, I think its best that we move on and I will help them off the blog …..I think it’s better for all concerned. The blog thingy is a happy thingy and I just don’t think they are ……. so …………….let’s move on and thanks again for …well……you know.
Let’s pause for a few photos. In a moment we will have more live photos from your Carnival Dream however I thought today I thought you might like to see a few shots of the Carnival Freedom.
Here she is first docked in Tortola
And now from yesterday in Key West
And as the Carnival fleet gives you the opportunity to cruise the Caribbean and beyond its time to jump from the sunshine of the Keys to the dramatic scenery and snow that makes an Alaskan cruise adventure so special. Lets therefore check in with our friend Chris “Bubba” Roberts.
July 25, 2009
Greeting to all,
Had one of the most interesting envelopes delivered to me by the Guest Services office this week…..
This was professionally printed. Check out the return address. I thought it was pretty funny. Opened up the envelope and found this card in it.
Inside the card was a gift card from Bed, Bath & Beyond. I can’t even begin to tell you how touched I was. I of course sent these ladies a thank you note & a little something at dinner, but wanted to also send a public thank you to them over the blog as they had never cruised with me before, and only knew me through my small contributions. The network of people I have met through this site have been wonderful and it’s nice to be a part of. I want to thank John again for letting me be a part of it.
So I went out and tried something a little adventurous. In Sitka, I went on a new tour for this year called the Ocean Raft Adventure. This is a very small capacity tour. Only 6 people per departure load up on a sup’ed zodiac boat with huge jet boat engines. Now this is an open air vehicle and to make sure you stay dry and warm, the outfit you with special gear. Check out this latest in fashion…..
It’s kind of a bouncy ride at time, so the seat are like horse saddles, but with big air cushions that you straddle.
You take off from Sitka harbor and head out to some of the remote areas around Sitka sound. During the tour we saw puffins, eagles, sea otters, sea lions & whale. A white knuckle thrill ride combined with great nature sight seeing. Got some beautiful pics of Mt. Edgecomb which is the dormant volcano located just off of Sitka.
The little brown dots in the water is a raft of sea otters. Such cute little guys.
Well the Salmon are beginning to run, that means the bears will be coming out more. We’ll even start our bear watching tours this week. I hope to get on one of these with Julie in the near future as last year she did not have a chance to go. When we do, I will be sure to check back in. Hard to believe there are only 8 cruises left in this years Alaska season. Only 11 weeks till the wedding!!!!! Thanks again to Sandra and Linda and thanks to all of you for reading and letting me be a part of the blog.
Be well,
chris
Another great report and how kind of those wonderful bloggers to think of you like that. Chris only has a few more weeks left as CD and I hope he will find time to write us a farewell blog ….. we will miss you mate. And you must not miss Alaska off your cruise list……there are some great rates already published for Carnival Spirit 2010…….get them while they are hot……..or in this case ……..cold.
Let’s meet some guests from the Welcome Aboard Show.
Here is Lamar Washington and William Booth
Lamar is in his late thirties and from Brooklyn New York. William is 84 and from Georgia. They don’t appear to have much in common do they apart from the fact that they were on stage with me. Well actually they do. Lamar is currently serving in the United States Navy and has done for 15 years. he has just returned from a carrier sailing in the Gulf………he is a chef onboard.
William served in the United States Navy for 28 years including serving as a gunner in WW II. Two very different generations but two men who have helped protect the very name that is written on the side of this ship………….Freedom.
OK, time for a Carnival Dream break starting with some photos of one of the most important pieces of equipment on the ship……..the cruise directors desk……which arrived on Monday (yesterday) and from where Todd will be scheduling all the new and exciting features that we haven’t told you about yet………and from where I will be sitting in my underpants blogging.
Now let’s have a look at your Carnival Dream
And here is an outside shot of a Cove Balcony
And now on this blog of many photos, here are some great shots of your Carnival Dream Water Works Aqua Park
There will be more photos tomorrow.
Well, compared to last cruise the weather has been glorious so far and as I sit here in my you- know-whats, the sun is shining and the ship is heading to Grand Cayman.
I have a heck of a busy day today with the Morning Show, Travel Talk, Marriage Show, two elegant night parties and two shows. I then have to sign around 30 photos for the guests who wrote to the morning show and write the rest of this blog thingy. I will be honest with you ………….. all I feel like doing is closing my eyes as this bloody cold continues to take its toll on me and my sugar levels.
………”Wind your neck in John and stop bloody moaning,” I hear my friend Mr. Bentley saying and so my neck is in and I will stop moaning forthwith.
I have another blog family who have a cabin over the Dance Club and are hearing some vibration below. They wrote me a letter earlier today and I will be working with our Guest Services Manager to see what we can do to help them.
Apart from that……..The guests are having a great time. Empress Bee (Southern Dreams) is here along with Bonnie Prince Charlie and it was wonderful to sit and chat with them yesterday and I hope to see them later today as well.
All is well………..in fact yesterday was simply amazing.
I spent the day laying in a hammock, sipping a Diet Coke and puffing on a Cuban cigar while a six-foot Latvian super model with mopped my brow and tickled me with a peacock feather. We were naked, because we were on a nude beach. I had a foot-long thingy that arrived only moments before in a cardboard box from UPS. Nora Titov my Latvian Supermodel was wearing only a naughty tattoo on her bottom and a pair of silver stilettos.
Just as I’m complimenting Nora Titov on her tattoo, a man with an even larger thingy offers her a massage. I’m rendered speechless by his impudence, but Nora coolly declines his offer says she is with me and tells him to buggerov offov.
We’re alone again. Things move fast. We go for a stroll along the beach, we look at the waves gently lapping the shore, I give her a massage and, inevitably, we kiss. Before I can catch my breath, she suggests going somewhere more private. Which is when the phone rings and it’s the staff captain reminding me that we have a safety inspection in five minutes. And with a flick of the mouse thingy……my Latvian model vanishes and my thingy goes back to what it has always been…..the size of a baby carrot.
Second Life – the 3-D virtual world is something one of the entertainment staff showed me a few days ago. Uncle Google tells me that it is had more than six million visitors and that 200,000 join each and every week… ………………..bloody hell.
In Second Life, you can buy virtual houses, cars, cappuccinos, computers, lap dances, books, George Foreman grills……..anything. You can dance, undress, giggle, urinate, gamble, poo, smoke a palm tree and spank Judge Judy………..oh yes………………and you can fly.
There is only one problem: it’s all virtual. As in not real. As in fantasy. Apart from the money: buying a virtual Aston Martin only costs a few real dollars, but Second Life’s currency, the Linden dollar, has already made several real people into real US-dollar millionaires.
Currently says Uncle Google about US $1.6m is spent in Second Life every 24 hours.
Even stranger, you can now go on vacation in it. There are Second Life tour operators, Second Life tourist information services, a Second Life Cruise program, where you can ask lots of questions about cruising.
If cruising and vacations are about escapism, then is it possible you could escape through your computer screen? Just think of it: no packing, no airport security, no lost luggage or lining up for anything and serious cost.
Well, I’ve just been on my first virtual vacation in Second Life, and I wouldn’t start not packing your suitcase just yet. My souvenirs will consist of a headache, some dark memories and a no virtual Heidi who is bound to be upset, because when she reads about my “virtual, but she’s still a person and you still had rumpy pumpy with her, you bastard” Latvian model……that will be me in the dog house.
Take my advice……don’t give up real cruises just yet….. You need them to escape the very strange world we live in.
And on that note I will say goodnight………..but not before I pop back to Second Life one more time……not because of Nora my Latvian girl but because for the first time in many years ………… I have a thingy I can actually see.
Goodnight
Your friend
John
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.
Hi Jaime! and John….
How was Tortola? It’s on my bucket list. Love,
Mom, Dad, David and Grandma
p.s. Hi to Heidi and beautiful Kye.
Chris: Thanks for the wonderful memories of Sitka. I have a beautiful red leather jacket with a gorgeous black fox collar that I bought in Sitka and hauled all the way home…in JULY!!
John:
The pictures of the Dream look wonderful. I recognize the fabulous ceramic beds like the Splendor has in the Spa. I can’t wait for my Spa Cabin!!!!
The subject of how the loyalty system is tiered has been discussed to death on Cruise Critic.
It seems the basis of the complaint is that longer cruises cost more than shorter cruises…therefore, passengers should be more credit.
A. While 14 day cruises perhaps should get twice the credit, Carnival does very few cruises longer than 7 days. A company does not build a tier system based on the exception….they build it on the rule.
The rule is that most Carnival cruises are 7,5,4 or 3 day cruises….with a few CTN thrown in here and there.
B. The basis that a 7 day cruise cost more money is a misconception. A suite on a 3 day cruise can cost the same or more than an interior on a 7 day cruise. For example, the Spa Balcony on our 4 day Splendor cruise was much more per person than the Interior cabin on our 7 day Miracle cruise.
C. If everyone wants to “be fair” ….”days at sea” would still not be a fair way to access the perks. “Days at sea” does not equate “money spent”. If someone takes a 14 day cruise, but does not gamble, drink, use the Spa, take excursions or purchase jewelry from the Carnival gift shop……why should they get more credit that someone who sails on a 3 day and does all of the above….spending a ton of money in the process.
D. Carnival has 20 years of no records. There are individuals who are still trying to get credit for ” a cruise” during that period of time. People are not able to prove which ship they went on and when they sailed….much less how many days it was.
And it would just be a logistical nightmare to try to keep up with “credit” based on dollars spent. (especially with 20 years of no records)
The bottom line is that for the price of a Carnival cruise….I believe the “perks” are reasonable and fair….based on the number of cruises. Since the Repeater’s Party has gotten so large…..the addition of a Platinum party would be nice.
Where Chief Marketing Officer Jim Berra could really “step up the program” is to properly identify the Milestone Rewards Program with a Black Elite card and add some perks like:
1. Priority upgrading like the airlines use based on senority. If an upgrade cabin is available, the current passengers booked on that cruise should be ranked and given a chance at the upgrade based on that ranking. (Milestone members would get first shot….Platinum members next etc)
2. Reciprocating benefits among sister cruise lines like “thenauseaofthesea” and “celebrity” do (and like Cunard and Princess do). This would do several things. It would entice your loyal Carnival passengers to try other (possibly more expensive) cruise lines. It would entice your current Platinum members to remain loyal to get this major perk. Loyal Carnival cruisers (like ourselves) are always going to cruise Carnival…but we would try other lines (as well) if the perks were there to do so.
3. The new Fun Tour (bridge, etc etc etc) would be a great Milestone Reward addition as well.
As always, thanks to Carnival for listening to us and taking our input into consideration.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
Oh Genie,
I DREAM that we will soon see what a “Junior Tub” really looks like?
John, thank you for publishing Cindy’s brilliant words about her time on the Splendor. We have seen several other reviews on Cruise Critic recently from experienced RCL cruisers and they all mention how good the food is and what a great value Carnival is. Bravo to all involved!!!
I was hoping to see some more info on the show you shot yesterday… the reality kinda thing… c’mon… give!!!
I LOVE the picture of the Cove balcony on the Dream!! It reminds me so much of my category 12 balconies on the Fantasy Class!!! Wonderful!!!
Please pass along my thanks to Lamar and William for their service.
All my best to the non-virtual Heidi and the lovely little Kye!!!
Ciao!!
Host Mach
Dear John,
You asked about the Platnium Cruise status. I think it should be by the number of days instead of the number of cruises. If you have ten (10), three (3) day cruises it only amounts to thirty (30) days. So therefore thirty days total points is the current minimum mark.
Carnival can set this mark where ever they decide but this way it is fair to all no matter whether you take one (1) thirty (30) day cruise or ten (10) three (3) day cruises. I suggest that like Anniversaries, the mark should go like this.
25 days of cruising with CCL = Silver
50 days of cruising with CCL = Golden
75 days of cruising with CCL = Platnium
100 days of cruising with CCL = Diamond
Each level can have its own benefits and rewards and you always have something to look forward to by reaching the next level!
By the way the points should be retroactive so Nancy & I are at fifteen (15) days (points).
James & Nancy
The Cruzin2some
Thank you John for the fabulous report from Bubba (Chris) on Alaska. I am FINALLY getting excited about our cruise next week. So many people say Alaska is beautiful. I plan on taking a lot of pictures and will send you one or two when I get back, or even when I am on the Spirit. Looking forward to meeting Bubba.
The Dream is going to be a beauty. Those that sail on her are in for a treat.
I can not imagine why anyone would put themselves out there for a proposal that may not go as planned.
Keep smiling John, you truly are one of the good guys.
My best to Heidi and Kye.
John,
Awesome as usual, again you brought a smile to my face. I sure hope your cold ends soon, they are so miserable in the summer. And, yes we are a bit protective of you.
Bobbi
Hi John,
As you know, one of the goals when Carnival started was to have a non-elitist cruise line. In Carnival’s eyes, the dinosaurs that wear penguin outfits on elegant night are no better than those who are comfortable wearing jeans.
Longer cruises may cost more, but shorter cruises often cost more per day. I wouldn’t be surprised if the average passenger spending per day on shorter cruises is higher than on the longer cruises.
A cruise is a cruise is a cruise. Snobbery has no place on the Fun Ship!
p.s. If your email address is still posted on Cruiser Critic, no doubt one of the hosts should edit it out.
You really shouldn’t hand your Carnival email out, anyway. Get one of the Stephanies to set you up with one of the many free email accounts. When you start getting too much crap mail sent to it, just abandon that address and get another one.
Regards,
bill
Hi John
Glad to hear you are feeling better. I hope Heidi and Kye are doing well also.
Please reply
Just a quick question. How come the Steak house doesn’t offer Carnivals wonderful Warm Chocolate Melting Cake as one of their deserts? I was able to convince them to get me one from the main dining room last year on the Carnival Freedom TA. That cake is so delicious I just can’t believe it isn’t on the menu.
Thanks and have a wonderful Carnival Day!
John,
I want to comend you for the handling of ruth an al, they were very very disresptful of you and simply no need for it.
When people pollitely request things on your blog you do it respectfully above and beyond your duties!Yes you may be senior cruise cirector but you not the cruise director of each and evey ship in the fleet, so when you try to accomadate people it’s cause of your good will nature.
Also this is john’s blog, not carnival’s and it’s not a service last time i checked it’s a blog that countless people enjoy, so for someon to get on here and demand something is barking up the wrong tree!
So again congrats on your handling and may god have mercy on the poor waiters that get that couple!!
matt
John – was that a hint on the pins (that they would return as an item in the onboard shops)?
I saw another comment asking for photos of the Jr. Tubs…it would be nice if photos could be published of the deluxe ocean view rooms…including the Quint occupancy configuration.
Regarding the loyalty program: It might be a nice gesture for the rare 12-14 day cruise to offer double credit for it. I think in the case of normal cruises (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 day) that those should simply remain on par.
In regards to interline privileges, it would be nice if perks transferred between lines. I would love to try Princess, Cunard, or *gasp* after winning the lottery the Yachts of Seaborne. I have heard that it can be difficult to even get the past guest rate – which is advertised as a perk.
Thanks John as always for a great blog. Been lurking and reading since pretty near the beginning, but finally started commenting. (Better late than never, right?)
Dear John,
Please Reply
I know you are not mentioning Ruth on this blog anymore, but reading her nasty comments made me want to write to let you know how appreciated you are and to thank you for you help in getting us a table by a window. I don’t know if you remember me asking, but my husband and I sailed on the Legend June 7th and I wrote you asking if we could be seated near a window. We had a wonderful seat and asking you to do this was a blessing as we has some of the best tablemates. We even dined with them in the steakhouse, we enjoyed their company so much. I have to say that the steakhouse on the Legend was an amazing experience. The food and service was amazing and we were beyond stuffed. So kudos to the steakhouse on Legend.
However, I was a bit disapointed in the service that we recieved in dining room. While I did grow to like our waiter it was certainly not the same experience as our first Carnival cruise on the Glory in 2005. On that cruise our waiter knew what we would like off the menu we only had to ask for something once and he remembered it for the rest of the cruise. We had our drinks waiting for us when we sat down, it was just amazing. He was just very attentive to our needs.
However, this time I didn’t even get a chance to order a drink until half way through dinner the first few nights. The second night our waiter was nowhere to be seen for the first 20 minutes and we were literally the last people to walk out of the dinning room 15 minutes before the late seating started. We would often have to ask for things like a-1 or sour cream twice before we would get it. He did start to improve the next day, but I was just disappointed at such a major difference in the level of service. Now please don’t think this made me think any less of Carnival as we have already booked a Cruise on the Dream in June 2010. I even talked my parents into going (they have been Celebrity snobs the past few years). I just was surprised at the huge difference in service and thought it would something you would be interested in know about.
I must also add that Kye is just so adorable and has grown so much. I know you must miss her so much!
Melissa
The loyalty program…well as of my next cruise I will be Platinum (and the friends I cruise with are already Platinum) so I guess that it doesn’t matter anymore BUT I have always felt that you should not get credit for cruises but rather number of days sailed as I think Holland America does their program. Since my Carnival cruises have been mostly 8 days and longer (31 days on the Splendor, 12 on the Liberty Med) which is equal to 6 – 7 day cruises and yet got credit for only 3. I felt 3 credits was very unfair. It should be number days sailed at whatever level they set. I don’t believe 10 – 3 day cruises should give someone Platinum status when another guests has sailed on 7, 8 or 9 cruises and has almost 80 days sailed and has not reached Platinum status. Guests shouldn’t be penalized because they have taken longer cruises which the current program does. I’m not saying those taking shorter cruises shouldn’t get credit but setting the levels by days sailed is IMO a much fairer way of doing it. Nuff said.
Love the photos from Chris and wow that sounds like an awesome excursion in a zodiac. How nice of the bloggers to remember him and Julie.
The Carnival Dream Water Works are going to keep my grandchildren very happy on their cruise next April, they are very excited already–we will be getting on when you are getting off—bugger!
Hi John,
Hope you are over your cold very soon and feel better!
I just want to second Linda (Mom of DJ)’s thoughts on the whole loyalty process. Just going by days at sea doesn’t really show the whole picture. I’ve sailed twice now on the 2 day CTNs from Norfolk and I know from pricing those cruises that the 2 day ones often cost as much or more as a 5 or even 7 day so only counting days at sea doesn’t seem fair either. Also, someone who books a suite on a 3 or 4 day may have spent much more money than someone who does several 7 days in an interior, or those who book balconies vs. insides if you want to use that argument.
I agree the 12 day or longer cruises should get double credit. But like Linda said in her post, those are not the norm and Carnival offers very few of those.The only true way to make it equitable would be based on dollars spent and that’s a marketing nightmare – you certainly couldn’t advertise a loyalty program with something like, “once you’ve spent $10,000 with us you’ll be platinum” even though I would say the majority of us might have easily spent that much by the time we reach 10 cruises – especially those of us who routinely book balconies.
So for now, I’m in favor of keeping everything the same as far as calculating cruise credits – although some new perks might be nice. All my best to you and Heidi and Kye – i can’t imagine how much you must miss them.
Hi John,
I totally agree with what Linda has posted. Keep the current system in place but introduce the next level of card. A platinum only party would also be a nice addition.
Dave
John,
I think the way you handled Ruth & Company, was the best way possible. Too many hard feelings and anger is not good for anyone and all that was bound to do was incite the masses.
Good job as always.
Cheers!
Mr Derek
John,
I forgot…. I agree with “Cruzin2some” about the way the Past Guest points should be allotted. That seems to me to make it fair for all. I believe that Princess does something similar, so it would not be that hard to figure out.
Cheers!
Mr Derek
Hi John,
Hope your cold is better. You know the only way to get rid of a cold is to give it to someone else! (Like R. & A.G) ’nuff said!
Anyway, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, since you asked for our input – we don’t think it’s fair to give credits for cruises based on how long you cruise! The whole idea for the rewards in the first place is because we CHOOSE Carnival, instead of another cruise line! It should not matter one bit how LONG we are cruising for, since many, many people simply don’t have a CHOICE of how long they can vacation – but they most certainly can keep CHOOSING Carnival! We go on Carnival for whatever duration we can either afford, where its going or what ship is our favorite – I don’t think anyone really chooses a cruise strictly for its duration! To penalize or discriminate against cruisers who can only get away for 3 days at a time, while rewarding those who can afford both the time and the expense to cruise for longer, is simply not fair! It all comes down to just what it is you are trying to reward your passengers for – their loyalty and patronage of Carnival, or their time and money spent on Carnival for long durations?
Thanks for listening to our input. You are an absolute brilliant asset to Carnival!
All our best to Heidi & Kye!
I agree with Linda’s well-stated comments regarding achieving Platinum status. There are SO MANY variables to consider (i.e., # of days, $, type of cabin, etc.). It would be a logistical nightmare and I think Carnival has done a great job keeping it simple. I was very impressed when this rewards program was introduced and thought it to be a nice gesture. My in-laws really want to reach Platinum, so they have opted to do a 4 and 5 day b2b instead of 1 longer trip.
I also thought a couple of Linda’s suggestions were awesome. A smaller, more intimate reception for Platinum+ would be a nice touch and my husband would love it if our privileges were extended to sister companies.
Hi John,
Thanks for the pictures of the Carnival Dream. I agree with Linda (Mom of DJ) in that I think there should be reciprocating benefits between the Carnival Corporation cruise lines.
Hi Chris – Thanks for all of the Alaska updates that you have done during the two seasons! I’ve enjoyed reading your updates here on the blog thingy.
Clair
John- (Please reply)
I don’t know how you do it…..Your energy and passion for what you do truly shows. I’ve read your blog from time to time, but I’ve been a daily reader of your blog thingy since my wife, daughter and I sailed with you on July 4th. Your humour (spelt correctly) ;O) had us all laughing for 8 straight days. We were all sad to see the voyage end.
On to my point….I realize people cruise to get away from life’s stresses and re-charge the batteries, but that doesn’t mean people need to stop being kind to others. My family and I met some terrific people on the voyage, but we also met some people that belonged on a raft rather than a nice ship. It bothers me that people treat you and other crew members as ‘servants.’
We were impressed with the ‘service-with-a-smile’ attitude that we received from every crew member. Everyone went out of their way to make sure that our annual cruise was one we’ll remember for years to come. We had such a great time that we are trying to get our extended families to join us next year.
John, I know that some of your rewards come in the forms of applause and laughter. On a personal note, your energy and passion have inspired me to work tirelessly. I picture you literally working around the clock. If I had your job, there would be less people returning to port at the end of the voyage than started out.
Thank you for your passion and sharing your stories on your blog thingy. I’m looking forward to many more cruises with Carnival.
Best wishes to you and your family…
Matt A.
P.S. If you get a moment, please tell our room steward, Rodney, that Matt, Sheri and Caitlynne say hello. We were in Cabin #1067, and Rodney did a fantastic job.
Thanks Chris for another report and pictures. You must do a farewell blog for us so you don’t leave us hanging!
Love the pictures of the Carnival Dream!
And last but not least, no driving Southern Dreams scooter around the decks like a crazy man! I challenge you to a race one day because I have one just like Bonnies!
Hi John,
In regards to the past guest rewards you asked about, I think it should be based on days sailed.
I have also sailed on Princess and something they do that’s a nice touch is when the room steward introduces himself he always says welcome back I see you’ve cruise —times with us. Thank you.
I would also like to see priority upgrading – not sure how feasable this would be though..
The clincher for me? A GUARANTEED chair at the pool!!!!
Hi John,
Please Reply,
I found this picture of you and I thought you might enjoy seeing it. You are dressed up as Dolly Parton. When I saw this, I thought to myself, “Yep! here is a man that truly does love his job, you can see it in him.” I just thought that you would enjoy seeing it as well.
http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc101/Chacooe/JohnHealdasDollyParton.jpg
Your Bloggy Thingy fan,
Kathy
In regards to Platinum status, I agree with Linda (DJ’s Mom) that once you reach platinum status, those passengers should receive the upgrades first. Although we have never been upgraded in our 15+ Carnival cruises, I have spoken with other passengers who receive these upgrades on their 1st cruise. That just doesn’t seem quite fair to your loyal customers. I also agree that the status should apply across the corporation’s fleet, not just each particular line. Although I don’t think I will ever sail on “youknowwhooftheseas” again, I do agree with their loyalty program. They don’t give as much credit for a 3 day cruise as they do for a 7 day cruise or more. Thanks for letting us share our opinions.
John, from time to time you kind of hint at your weight loss. I want to encourage you to continue as it does have some very healty rewards. Heidi and Kye and even the rest of us want you around for a very long time. Please continue to keep us posted on progress or even set backs.
Over the past 30 years I had let my weight slowly grow to the point that it was creating health problems for me forcing me out of the full time work force. Encouraged last year by your talking about your weight issues and then by your reports on Big Tex’s weight loss I began my own weight loss journey. It took me 6 months to loose the first 15 pounds but I was still having major health issues. In early Jan 09 I got very serious about the weight loss.
Meeting Big Tex and you on the NOLA Bloggers cruise only encouraged me even more. As of one year ago this week after disembarking (love the term) a hospital stay I have lost 90 pounds. I was fully released two weeks ago to return to my industrial job which should improve my cruise funds. My feet, knees and hips feel 20 years younger. I am actually doing yard work again which is a challange in south east Texas summers.
I still have some more to loose before I will look as good as Big Tex in his new suit and cowboy hat but I keep trying. Ok, I can hope anyway.
Keep up the good work on the weight loss. I know being back on the ship makes it more difficult but keeping the goals and healthy rewards (plus Heidi and Kye) in mind helps.
Hello John:
Sometimes the hammer has to come down on folks that drag everyone else down, hard to enjoy it when all you get is hate and discontent, so thank you.
Here in Arkansas we believe that you don’t fix what isn’t broke (local vernacular). The loyalty program is fine the way it is. There is a mix of reward and expense that works.
I think there is a feeling in the air that once you have obtained something, you need more. Or maybe folks want the rules to reflect their style of cruising.
It is ok to leave it alone and work on the actual cruise experience. Just my $.02.
I am impressed with the behind the scenes tours for $95.oo, good thinking.
Congratulations to Stephanie L. on her promotion, good for you, and good that Carnival recognizes one of the talents within. Fine person.
All the best to you and yours.
Your Friend
Bill Heck
Hi John,
Regarding the Platinum question, we will be platinum in 3 more cruises. We have two booked in January, and are looking forward to platinum status. I can see, if changes are made to the system, that, just when we are about to attain it, platinum will be moved out of reach. About half of our cruises have been 7 day and half 4 or 5 day. I can’t imagine doing a 3 day. That’s not even worth unpacking for. We are planning something special for our first platinum cruise, maybe Hawaii or Alaska. Please don’t take that away from us.
Love your blog,
Chris
John – please reply
Love to you and your family.
As a Platinum cruiser I have just comment regarding the perks that come with it. I think having the priority of boarding and deboarding are all I need. All the rest are fine but if only the line waiting time is involved I am still happy. All the other perks just get paid for in the cost of my cruise. Someone has to pay for the gifts etc. Sometime it is my time that is expensive and I appreciate the less waiting and hassle.
Thanks for all you do with the blog and for us cruisers. Cant wait to cruise with you sometime. Hope to do the Dream next summer.
Love to all, Karen
Good Morning John
Do you have any picture of the dream stateroom on the spa deck? if not could you get some picture spa deck staterooms and post them. picture you have posted are outstanding. im looking forward to to jan 16.
have a woulderful day
Andy
Dear John, thank you for posting the picture of Key West. We luv Key West and have been there twice now. We cruise out of Galveston because it is within driving distance, so we’d love to see a short cruise offered that just goes to Key West and back. That’s how much we love Key West!
We will go on every itenerary out of Galveston because it is so convenient. I know there use to be more ships and more iteneraries offered out of Galveston. Do you know if this will ever pick up again? Will the port of Houston make any impact on our Texas cruising options? Any insider info you can share on this subject would be greatly appreciated
Hope you get to feeling better soon.
John
I like the idea of number of days, as the cost of a cruise is what the individual wants it to be (ie. inside cabin, balc, or suite), the daily cost is somewhat close to the same on all the ships. Personally, My wife enjoys the longer 7 day or more cruises because of the air travel and a hotel the prior night. I have several cruises that are not available on my history from the 80′s. and corporate will just have to make the determination that if it is not on your history,we are very sorry and what is there is there. (we have seven cruises showing for 48 days and I like James and Nancy (Cruzin2some) idea, as I would be Golden an my next cruise on 9/12 on the Carnival Freedom.
Kevin
Thank you John for the suggestions for Jorge, great pictures of the Dream, and another fascinating report from Bubba.
John On the rewards program I also believe days should count as well as cruises toward the platinum level.. I took a 28 day cruise on the Slendor and received two points.. I have a niece who has sailed less than 50 days and is platinum.
Thanks
Concerning “Ruth and Al”….
AMEN!
Dear John (please reply),
My family and I will be cruising on the Carnival Dream to the Bahamas and I have been reviewing the shore excursions in preparation. I have a couple questions about the Atlantis excursion in Nassau that I’m hoping you can answer.
I noticed there are a few options with Atlantis. First, and most expensive is the plan where you can go to the beach and the waterpark. While that sounds great, two of my children will be under 48 inches and I understand that you must be at least this height to ride the waterslides. So I’m thinking that this might not be the best option for us. I see another Atlantis excursion where you can use the beach and have lunch. Finally, separate from Atlantis, there is a beach excursion (I think it’s called Blackbeard’s Cove). I notice that the Blackbeard’s Cove outing is much less expensive than the Atlantis beach outing. Although lunch is included at Atlantis, I was wondering if there were other reasons to pay more for the Atlantis beach trip. I know you can’t use the waterpark but are there pools available or is there something else to do that would make it worthwhile to spend the extra money for Atlantis rather than going to Blackbeard’s Cove?
One more quick question – is Camp Carnival open on port days? I was thinking of having my husband take my older two the Kennedy Space Center in Port Canaveral and staying onboard with my three year old. It might be nice to grab some alone time by the pool if Camp Carnival is open that day.
Thanks so much for all your valuable information. It’s helped confirm to me that I’ve made a good decision for our family vacation!
Take care,
Amy
John, there has been so much discussion concerning the Platinum status program I thought I would add my two cents worth. My wife and I have been platinum for quite a while now and must say IT’S GREAT! Everyone should strive for it. Ironically, we were not even aware of the program until we were handed our sign and sail cards and saw they were not the usual gold, we were so pleased and excited.
In my opinion there really is no good solution how platinum status is awarded, whether based on the amount of sea days accumulated or somehow figuring how much money passengers have spent in the past. Any way Carnival would decide to go would turn out to be a logistical nightmare.
The past cruiser party has become so full now that it may as well be a full open to all party. A platinum and milestone only gathering would be nice, but there may only be a few people on some cruises who have reached platinum or milestone. A loss is separating the past cruisers and platinum is the recognition of the platinum/milestone members. I don’t mean to show off the platinum and milestone members but to make the other previous cruisers aware that those programs exist.
Other Ideas I like that others (Cruizin2some and Linda) have suggested are:
1. A special card for milestone passengers. On numerous occasions (before the sign and sail card changed for the worse) we have been asked about our platinum cards and explained the program to them. Anything that makes other passengers ask questions has got to be good for Carnival.
2. Priority cabin upgrade for platinum and milestone members. Since we have been sailing with Carnival (20 cruises) we have NEVER even been offered an upgrade. I honestly think it’s a myth. However, if these fictitious upgrades do exist, platinum and milestone should be offered them before all others as a perk.
3. Transfer of the platinum/milestone benefits to sister cruise lines. We love Carnival and will keep coming back, but under certain situations we want/need to cruise on another cruise line. To go to Holland America for example and receive the same benefits as on Carnival would be a wonderful incentive.
As far as the perks that come with platinum status I think Carnival has done a great job. The priority embark/disembark, the laundry service and pursers desk window are fantastic. The welcome aboard gifts are nice but how many thermos, picture frames or bags does a person need? It’s a very nice touch to receive them but honestly I would rather have a free hour of internet usage instead of a thermos or a picture frame, but, not everyone wants the same things so any small recognition is appreciated.
If nothing changes (except the sign and sail cards) I will keep coming back.
Keep up the good work Carnival!
Just like to put my two cents worth in on the Loyalty program and acheiving Platnium. I believe you answered it in a response to a previous letter, “his belief was that cruising should be something that would appeal and be available to the masses……..not just the privileged” Most of the masses, of which I am one, can not afford to take two weeks off work at one time, or even afford to pay for two weeks cruise all at one time. I work and plan very hard for the time I do get to cruise. I have taken some short cruises, but they are not usually planned out like the 7 day, opportunity came and I took advantage. I have done 2 four day, 2 five day, and 5 seven day. If my math is correct, my next cruise is my first Platnium, and I am very excited. I have also, 4 more 7 day cruises, with Carnival, booked or in the planning stages, does that make me loyal? I have sailed other lines, 1 HAL, 1 Princess, and 1 RCCL, but Carnival has my heart.
BTW, I am looking to do a Med cruise in 2012, any chance I may have a Carnival option by then?
I agree with Linda about the past guest.
Hi John!
I head out of town later today for several days so I will try and catch up as time permits.
I have never heard of a male engagement ring. I don’t even know what to say about that. I guess its a new sign of the times.
I like your new CD desk on the Carnival Dream
Maybe I can find a similar one to purchase in Second Life.
Great pictures today!
Thanks for posting and take care.
Hi Heidi/Kye!
David
John (please respond)–
I really appreciated the pictures of Bubba on the Ocean Raft Adventure trip, as we’ll be going on it in just three weeks (Spirit 8/19/09).
This will be our 10th anniversary cruise–and the first vacation for just the two of us (without kids, and without visiting family) in the 10 years since our honeymoon.
Do you have any suggestions on romantic/fun couple-y things to do for two second-honeymooners (who don’t drink!) on the Spirit? We already have the Supper Club (oops, Steakhouse) planned for the night of our anniversary (8/21). Also, what are the vegetarian options for the Steakhouse?
Thanks,
Robin
John,
I discovered this blog a fairly short time ago and I simply love it. I look at it two to three times a week. I find your sense of humor charming and delightful. Keep up the great work.
This is in response to your request that we comment on Carnival’s loyalty program. I love the program. After one cruise of any kind you get some recognition with the gold card and the past guest reception (on 5-day and longer cruises). One the best parts of the program is its simplicity:
Two cruises = Gold card.
Ten cruises = Platinum card.
Easy to keep track of. It is well publicized and understood by all. I have 11, I know where I stand. Two of mine were 3-day and two were 7-day. The law of averages has worked out for me. No change is necessary. If something forces change, KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid).
Thanks again for your hard work to add fun to our lives for a reasonable price.
John,
Great blog as usual!
Good for you on not posting any Ruth & Al comments on your blog anymore. You definitely did not deserve to be insulted. You are a class act and as busy as you are, you go above and beyond helping people and answering questions here in the blog.
Anyway… Counting the days until I set sail in Europe on the Dream!
Melissa
Thank you so much for the special attention for my grandson Garett (AKA Bob) on the June 23rd Carnival Spirit sailing. He got the note, medallion, and “ship on a stick” shortly after we sailed and it was made his day.
This was his third Alaskan cruise and he says it was the best of the three. The first two were on Princess which he liked, but Carnival is by far his cruise line of choice.
John, you MUST take the Carnival Spirit cruise soon. It is without a doubt, the most magnificent scenery I have ever witnessed. When you do finally go to Alaska, be sure to set aside a few days to go to Denali National Park. We took the 8 hour bus ride into the park. We saw eagles, snowshoe hares, caribou, Dall sheep, 10 grizzly bears, 3 mammas and 7 cubs (one mamma had triplets and the other 2 had twins). Unfortunately, we didn’t see a moose. I’m sure we passed dozens of moose hidden in the trees that were thumbing their noses and laughing at us dumb tourists. The one very special animal we saw was a wolf. A very scraggly wolf passed within 5 feet of the bus, never taking his eyes off us. It was a once in a lifetime sight.
The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour was absolutely the best excursion we have ever experienced Carnival’s description did not even begin to describe this tour. Anyone who enjoys Deadliest Catch on the the Discovery Channel absolutely MUST take this tour.
I thought the crew on the Carnival Conquest was the best and friendliest I had seen until I boarded Carnival Spirit. Almost every crew member smiled and greeted us every time we passed them in the halls.
Our room steward, Mcclang, and our waiter, Reggie were phenomenal. One of the boy’s teased Reggie and said he wanted everything on the desert menu. Guess what Reggie brought? Almost everything on the menu!
The only complaint I had about the whole cruise was that we went to College Fjord instead of Glacier Bay. We saw more glaciers at College but ships get closer to the glaciers in Glacier Bay and it is absolutely breathtaking.
Thank you again for the special attention to my grandson. It made his day.
Just to expand on Mark’s question on the 28th July blog.
Do you know of anyone that actually lives on bored a Carnival ship ?
I know there are a couple of people on Cunard and one on Princess, but I have to wonder if there are any on Carnival.
The wife and I have talked about it, when it comes time to retire we will take a long hard look at moving on to a ship for a while, what better way to spend your retirement !
Wow two replies in one day from me !
Anyways, you’ve gone n done it, the wife is now reading your blog, firstly thanks for helping her understand my sense of humor some more, maybe you can teach her the rules to cricket next as she just stares at me with a blank look.
Second, you mentioned that you may try and do a few cruises on the Splendor next year, she who thinks she must be obeyed has decided that she wants to be on one of those cruises, who am I to argue, is there any chance of making a semi big announcement if you do manage to make it out here ?
Hi John,
Please respond
We just got off the 07/19 Victory sailing. There are a few comments and 1 suggestion I would like to leave for you.
I’ll start with the great:
Somehow our comment cards went missing, but I want to say that our waiter Zefrey was the best waiter we have ever had. We were sailing with our 3 boys ages 20, 18, and 11. Each one of them loved coming to dinner to see what magic tricks Zefrey had for them. I can’t remember his last name but we were table 160. He also made sure that my Happy Birthday song was sung as loud as possible, much to my embarrassment! Please make sure that he gets all the credit he deserves plus a big, fat raise lol!
Now the not so great:
I had already read that the ship pins were a thing of the past, but I was extremely disappointed that Carnival has done away with the ship picture on the last night of the cruise. We always look forward to getting these signed my our waiters and cabin steward and then framing them when we get home. My youngest especially loves to show these off to his friends. Please persuade Carnival to bring these back.
And lastly, one suggestion:
Publishing the menus for both the dining rooms and the buffet in the Capers or putting it on the television every day would have definitely made it easier to plan our days. The Southern Caribbean itinerary is very tiring with no days at sea, and knowing where I am going to eat dinner in advance would have helped in planning shore excursions, spa treatments, and playing in the “adult arcade” as we like to call it.
All in all, this was a great cruise and we can’t wait to do it again!
Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to make everyone laugh,
The Lynch Family
Mark, Renee, Josh, Jordan, and Jacob
John (Please reply),
I also agree that Platinum status should be based on days spent at sea, not cruises AND should be based on cabin category. It honestly doesn’t make much sense to have someone who books 10-3 day cruises in inside cabins to be VIP before someone who books BL or OV cabins on 7+ day sailings.
I do have (*sheepish grin*) a few more questions for you. I’m the organizer of a group of about 45 of us (and counting!) and was wondering if it would be at ALL possible for me to arrange (prior to boarding) to have 15 minutes of a ship’s photographer’s time to take a quick and simple large group shot of us. I think I’ve heard it’s possible to arrange this after boarding, but with that many people, all going their separate directions, I think it’d be almost impossible to track everyone down and make sure they all get the message on when the picture will be taken.
My other question is this…my 81 year old grandma (who is the BEST, by the way) has recently been persuaded to join us on the cruise. She’s not a swimmer, and therefore won’t be joining us on some of our snorkeling trips, etc. I was wondering if you had any suggestions for excursions (or onboard activities) for her on our sailing. We’re on the Glory 11/29 sailing.
Thanks, John. As always, keep up the good work with the blog and your daily duties onboard and everything ELSE (I get tired just READING about your daily schedule).
Stacey
Hi John,
I’m the Cindy who made the comments in my Splendor review that you quoted in your blog yesterday. I just wanted to let you know that your quip about Mr. Goldstein needing to change his pants cracked me up!
I vote for counting the number of days cruised rather than the number of cruises taken. This seems most fair.
Wanda
John please respond..
John I wonder if anytime dining is making it more difficult for guests to receive confirmed dining seatings? I have been trying to book a cruise for the first week in October 2009 out of Florida and everything that looks good to me is waitlisted for early dining.. Eating late at night is not an option for me so I have not booked yet.
Thanks
Joe
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It seems that it would be simple to count the number of days instead of the number of cruises. It just seems simple even tho there would be much arithmetic involved. (In our case 5+7+7 instead of 1+1+1)
If you have to have an extra of those tiresome thermoses around I’d love to have one!
elizabeth
it is great to be here with you john, this is a fabulous cruise so far. well all except for the little bastards, i mean boys that stole my scooter and tore it up that is! oh well, i got it back from security and i am able to ride it, hope it lasts till i get home and can get it fixed up again. brats. anyway the weather, the cruise, the crew, the food, the shows, everything is marvy!!!
smiles, bonnie and prince charile
Regarding the Platinum status, I agree with many bloggers who have said they would like to see the number of days counted instead of the number of cruises taken.
We have taken 7 Carnival Cruises, of which 2 were 12 day Med cruises. I would love to see more points (days) given for the longer cruises. Maybe the number of points to become Platinum could be computed as an average length of a cruise x 10.
5 days x 10 = 50 points
We cant WAIT to be Platinum!
We reached Platinum level with Carnival a couple of years ago with a mix of 4, 5, 7 and even an 8 day cruise. The cruise and length will always depend on our schedule plus the local availability of the embarkation port. While we do fly to some destinations it is not our favorite mode of transportation. I think this is where some areas have an advantage as there are more 2, 3 and 4 night cruises offered. And looking at some of the off season pricing on the 2, 3 & 4 day cruises I would be padding my numbers if I had a local embarkation port.
I guess Carnival could modify the rewards program to be a mixture of both programs. Still count the 10 cruises to Platinum but add a second way as X-number of days also.
As we rapidly approach our first milestone (4-5 this year) we are also hoping for some added perks with Carnival and possibly shared with other CCL cruise lines. We have cruised Princess only once but would do again with cross over rewards. We decided to focus on Carnival at least until reaching the first milestone.
I know these ideas have been tossed around since before the NOLA bloggers cruise. Hopefully the folks in the penthouse in Miami will reach a decision soon.
Hi John,
By the time you read this it will be Friday and we will get our weekly fix of Kye – she is so adorable and growing with each picture. I’m sure you are anxious to get home and give her months worth of kisses and hugs.
I have a question for Bubba. I have finally convinced my Dad to take an Alaskan cruise and we are planning to go next Aug 2010, God willing. My question is about the routing, now that the Spirit will be sailing round trip from Seattle. What will we be missing? The May 2010 cruise goes through he Inside Passage, the Aug 2010 does not but does the Tracy Arm Fjords – so not knowing anything about Alaska, I’m not sure what the best cruise is to see the most. I’m sure May is going to be much colder than August, which will not go well with Dad – he is a true warm weather guy. People I talk to say you should not miss the Inside passage – so I would really like know the differences.
Thanks for all your help!
All my best to you, Heidi and Kye,
Debs
Thank You John, Stephanie, and Chef Harry for the clarification on the recipe for the Melting Cake.
You go beyond the call of customer service to help.
Hi, John. I was recently turned onto your blog by a “virtual friend” (soon to be in real life) on our roll call board on CC. I love your stories and your humor just as much as the information you hand out.
We will be making our second cruise with our daughter (her first was at 6 months on Ecstasy in November) on Sept 6th on Conquest. We were wondering about the rules concerning toddlers (she will be 16 months) and the pools on Conquest. Natasha is a fish and loves the water. I was really hoping to swim with her on the ship. Not only does she love the water, but it’s a sure-fire way to get some good naps in. DH says that, from what he is reading, toddlers are not allowed in the pools on the Conquest if they are not potty trained. Please tell me there is a solution! This is my 3rd trip on Conquest in as many years, but will only be my first with a kiddo.
Thanks in advance for any info you can give. Now I’m off to read some more of your blog as we only have 34 days, 5 hours and 55 minutes until cruise time.
Ho John Please reply,
Hope you are feeling better. Sorry this reply is alittle behind. I am trying to catch up on my blogs since I returned to work, time is limited.
I do feel that the platium system should be adjusted to include more value on the days you are cruising . Stu and I took 2 Med cruises 12 days, one 3 and one 7. In all fairness how can the 12 days count the same as the 3 day. It does not seem right.It is 4x longer We should get aleast double the point value. Just our opinion because we have a way to go. See you in Nov. Can’t wait to see you. Jackie