“These streets are my streets…………..punk.” I remember those words as if they were yesterday. My Dad and I religiously watched all the 70′s and 80′s cop shows from Ironside to Cannon, from Banacheck to McLeod and that one where Dick Van Dyke stars as a brilliant physician with an eye for a mystery, who regularly helps his thick as a brick son to crack murder cases ………… can’t remember the name of that one.
And of course Michael Douglas and the chap with the huge mole on the side of his nose in The Streets of Francisco. Ah, the good old days. Watching them pull up and be able to park a car the size of a Spirit class ship in front of anywhere they went in San Francisco still brings back great memories. I had a walk around the Fisherman’s Wharf area last night and I really do love the place. In San Francisco, you don’t have to pretend. You can come out. You can admit to the world ………. yes………….I am a fat tourist with a large white arse.
It’s not when I was in the Big Apple over New Years. There I was surrounded by busy New Yorkers and felt like I didn’t want anyone to know I was a tourist……..I wanted to fit in……….I wanted to be a New Yorker so I found myself walking around saying things like “You talkin’ to me?” and “Get the f&^%$ out a heeeeere.”
By contrast, after spending a few hours walking around last night I get the impression that the city is a meeting place for visitors from every imaginable city, country, planet and sexuality, so you can be yourself, whatever you are, which is wonderful indeed.
My 2 flights to get here were mostly uneventful save for the lady next to me on the 5 hour flight from Atlanta to San Francisco. She slept through the entire flight complete with the pillow, the blanket and the Zorro mask. The only problem was that every few minutes she would smack her lips together as though she was dreaming about eating something delicious. Now, considering her lips had recently received an obvious delivery of Botox and were the size of dinner plates and she looked like a member of one of those lost tribes of the Amazon you can imagine how loud her lip smacking noise was.
And I am sure you are all expecting me to have a good old moan about the service on Delta Airlines……………….but I won’t…………..I can’t actually…………..because there wasn’t any!
Anyway. I had a nice night last despite being on my own. The young CD Felipe and his staff all went out for a night on the town but as standing in a bar being forced to listen to deafening music and watching others drink slippery nipples and woo woos and talking about things I have nothing in common with such as fashion and rumpy pumpy…….I buggered off for some more alone time.
As I minced around I was surprised how cold it was. I know its February but there was a definite chill in the air. However, it is as I said a brilliant place. I imagined I would be mowed down by Steve McQueen in a Mustang or Nicolas Cage in a Ferrari 355 but it’s more likely you will be killed by some bespectacled librarian in a VW Beetle………it’s nothing like the movies.
Personally, I’m surprised that nobody in this land of opportunity has started up a Bullitt taxi service that crashes you down all of San Francisco’s hills…….with full revving sound effects included of course, so you don’t have to do your own vrrrooomming.
Another missed opportunity is that nobody has thought of producing postcards of Alcatraz with a pre-printed message — “Wish you were here.” It would save tourists like me the trouble of writing out the joke on cards for friends, family and a few people I actually would like to see in prison……..like the French……….the people from AIG who lost most of my life’s savings and the architect of the Norwegian Epic.
It’s time to answer some questions so……………..here we go.
Valerie Asked:
Please let us know about the ACD who will be filling in for the CD on the March 6, 2011 Freedom cruise. I was quite disappointed that it will be an ACD as opposed to either you or another CD. It is after all Spring Break week and your list doesn’t even have a name!I’ve sailed with some of Carnival’s best CD’s and only one of the ACD’s stood out so well that I still remember him. Thanks for all you do.
John Says:
Hello Valerie,I apologise that I will not be the CD on your cruise but please don’t worry as the ACD who is now acting cruise director is a chap called Dan. Hopefully you will have seen his bio that I posted last week here on the blog thingy. Dan will really be someone you will enjoy and please do not miss anything Calvin the now ACD does. He is brilliantly funny and together they are quite the team. Have a brilliant cruise and please let me know what you think when you get back home
Cheers,
John
STILLMissingthesmokefreeparadise Asked:
John – PLEASE REPLYSince you are concentrating on ACDs, I hope that, by the time you answer this question, I will have the answer already. What happened to Noortje, the wonderful ACD that Todd Wittmer had on our Transatlantic Cruise? I personally though that she would make a wonderful CD and hope that she is still with Carnival and on-track to becoming a CD herself.
Stillmissingthesmokefreeparadise
John Says:
Hello STILLMissingthesmokefreeparadise,I copied and pasted your name as I didn’t want to have to type STILLMissingthesmokefreeparadise…..oh bugger………..I just did.
Noortje resigned her position a few months ago and I hear she is working for NCL now. I had a wonderful time with her and Heidi and Noortje became great friends. I am sure whatever she does she will be successful and we miss her here.
Best wishes to you and Mrs STILLMissingthesmokefreeparadise
John
Debbie James asked:
Hi John,Please read and respond. I checked my profile on Carnival and also my husband’s. There are 2 cruises missing from both of our records and an additional cruise missing only on my profile. Our first Carnival cruise was on the Carnivale in March 1987 and our second was on the Jubilee on March 6, 1988. The third cruise on the Holiday in May 1990 shows up on my husband’s profile, but not on mine. I contacted Miami and was told I had to produce a sign and sail card to get credit. I got news for them – on our first cruises they didn’t issue them and then on several subsequent cruises they collected them at debarkation. I do have a picture of me watching my son shaking hands with the Captain on the Carnivale and it clearly says TSS Carnivale in the corner. As for the Jubilee cruise I have 2 pictures with Jubilee in the corner and I found the Carnival Caper paper from embarkation day on March 6, 1988. (Boy was that fun reading – purser only open 8am to 8pm, set up onboard account at the purser after embarkation etc.) I also have a picture of my husband and I on the Holiday. Since they already gave him credit for that cruise I would think that would be a no-brainer, but not according to Miami. I would be more than happy to send in the original photos and Capers as I am sure they would suspect photoshopping on a copy if it would get the credits. It makes a difference – with those credits I would be Milestone. I have several extra cruises because I took my Mother for several birthday cruises until she died. Any suggestions on who to direct my next attempt to get credit to? I would like to get it resolved before our May 23 cruise on the Ecstasy. And, thank you so much for getting the Chef’s Table reservation on that one. Debbie
John Says:
Hello Debbie,Thanks so much for taking the time to write and things at Carnival have really changed haven’t they since your first cruise back then. I will send your concerns to the right person who with the photo evidence should be able to help you. I hope you have some wonderful memories of your cruises, especially those with Mum who you must miss very much. So I will send this on and please let me know what happens. I hope we sail together one day soon.
Best wishes,
John
Joseph Pujol Asked:
John Please Reply!My girlfriend and I are cruising on the Carnival Pride on March 13, 2011. Could we please ask a favor in obtaining us a table for two (possibly overlooking the middle of the dining room if available), which we would really love as we never get to spend time together as she goes to school away from home, and I am in the coast guard usually away from home as well. We have been looking forward to spending 7 days together for months! You helped us last cruise we went on and we really appreciated it! Love the blog, and all the time you put into it and with helping us, you definitely are a reason we will always stay loyal to Carnival. We are in stateroom 6218, and have the 8:15 late dining. PS: Any recommendations on things to do in Freeport?
Thanks John!!!
John Says:
Hello Joseph,Thanks so much for the wonderful service in the U.S. Coast Guard. As you know I have plenty of reasons to say thank you for all you and your colleagues do. I will certainly ask the maitre d to assist and wish you both a wonderful cruise
Best wishes,
John
Carnival Platinum Cruiser Asked:
Reply WantedJohn. I read your response to Kathy about tipping and as usual you are talking total garbage. I have been on 21 carnival cruises and never tip the cabin cleaners. I don’t care what you or others may think about this because I am secure in my convictions. Why should I tip. I don’t tip the cleaners who service my hotel rooms. The price of that is in the hotel stay and it’s not my fault that Carnival is too cheap to do the same and pay the cabin boys and cabin girls a salary and insists that I should have to put my hand in my pocket. I take off my tips for the waiter as well and if they meet my high expectations then I tip, if not, I don’t. Tipping is an individual right.
I still get the towel animals and the chocolate mint and a clean cabin twice a day yet tip nothing. I suggest others follow my way of thinking.
John Says:
Hello Carnival Platinum Cruiser,First of all thank you for your 21 cruises with us and secondly I could not disagree with you more. Each and every crew member is paid a salary by Carnival and yes, these salaries are complemented by tipping procedures and that is important to know. In the case of the stateroom stewards I cannot even compare the wonderful work they do compared to hotel service but I can tell from the tone of your posting that even if I were to list the differences it would make no difference to your thoughts I am sure. I will remind you that you are one of only a few……a very few…..who do no tip anything and yet I bet that even though you tip nothing that the service has still been exceptional…….right? Anyway, as you said, tipping is voluntary and each and every person has the right to decide if they pass on a gratuity or not. I wonder what the other bloggers think about this post?
Best wishes
JohnKathy Berman Asked:
Hi John,I don’t know if you can help me but I a going to give it a try. My husband our three children and our dear friends Tina and Brian were on the Dream this past summer. We were on the July 17th to 24th cruise. It was a long talked about and planned trip. Our friend Brian has faced many health problems since he was born with cystic fibrosis, a liver transplant at the age of 22 and most recently he was a diabetic. He has a great love of sailing and since his health wasn’t as good as it used to be he agreed to a cruise hence our cruise on the Dream this last summer. He had canceled two other vacations in 2010 due to his health but by the grace of God he was able to go on this cruise. We all had a wonderful time and the memories will last us a life time. He was truly a light in our lives and will be missed greatly.
However, it saddens me to write or say our dear friend passed away on December 28th. He will be truly missed. Know my question for you. We purchased lots of pictures on the cruise but not the tape. Is there any way we can get a copy of that tape now? I regret not purchasing it then and was hoping if it is possible you could help. Thank you for your time. I am hoping for a Happy and Healthy New Year for all.
Kathy Reilly-Berman
John Says:
Hello Kathy Berman,I was so saddened to read this news and I want you to know that you are all in my thoughts. Unfortunately though we don’t keep master copies of the videos onboard and so there is nothing I can do to help which makes me feel sad indeed. I hope you can hold on to the wonderful memories you have and once again I am thinking of you. Please let me know if you have any other requests you think that I may be able to help with.
Best wishes,
John
Mary Ruppert Asked:
Dear John, (Please Reply)I would like to ask your help with something that is important to me and my family. My dad passed away on Christmas day, and he was a true-blue Carnival cruiser. He went on 15 out of my 20 Carnival cruises with me and my kids and loved every one of them. I am booked on the Blogger’s Cruise on the Carnival Glory next month, and I would love to arrange a simple dedication so I can scatter some of his ashes at sea. Can you help me arrange this? Doesn’t have to be any big deal, just a time and place for 4 of us to do it. Any morning or night of the cruise would be fine. He was in the Navy so I have arranged for his remains to be buried at sea from one of the ships deployed from Jax, Fl. but dad’s happiest days late in his life were on the Carnival ships. We all love the sea because of him. I am a proud Navy brat still and began sailing when I was 6 weeks old. Sixty years later, I still long to be at sea.
I am so looking forward to meeting you on the cruise. I missed the first 3 blogger’s cruises, but not this time! Thanks for anything you can arrange for me,
Mary
John Says:
Hello Mary RuppertI will be more than happy to help you with this and in fact it would be an honour. I am going to copy the environmental officer on the Carnival Glory on this as he has to help with the correct paper work……..yes……..the men in high visibility jackets have created loads of paperwork for this. But we will help you and it will be, I hope, a wonderful send off for someone who sounds like he was a wonderful father. Someone will be in touch when you board and I will see you soon Best wishes and my sympathies at your loss.
John
Lewis from PA Asked:
Reply please John ASAPShip Imagination
Going on her on March 21st and need table for 6 by the window
Cabin E21 and E27Need to know you get this so need immediate response wanted
Lewis
John says:
Hello Lewis,I will do all I can to help.
Best wishes,
John
Lisa Asked:
John, PLEASE READ, AND REPLY…Just an FYI:
We (my family of 7) sailed on the Fascination 12/16/2010. We have NOT received an email comment “card” yet.
Thanks!
LisaJohn Says:
Hello Lisa,May I ask if you checked the “I want to receive e-mail contacts” portion of your booking form which means that we will then send you a card? Saying that and you did and still have not gotten one please let me know and I will have one sent. I must say that we continue to have some concerns with this system as not everyone who wants a card is getting one. Please also know if you have any praise or comments please let me know here and I will pass along for you. I hope you had a great cruise
Best wishes
John
That’s all for today.
Just a quick note to say Happy Valentine’s Day to you all. I always hated Valentine’s Day when I was younger as it was just another reminder that I was an ugly bastard and girls found me as attractive as boil on a baboon’s arse. Heidi and I don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day as her dad passed away on Valentine’s Day in 2005. I am thinking of my wife and her mum and brother today and feel guilty as ever for not being there with her.
Well here I am on the Carnival Splendor and it is great to be back. Before I get into some of the facts and things that have happened I want to tell you about the crew. You see, from the moment I walked up the gangway where I was met by security I have been welcomed as warmly and as I can ever remember.
You see, although approximately 50% of the 1,200 crew were not here during the fire itself 50% or so were here and everyone I have met who was have all been…….well…….they have all been thanking me and saying how much they appreciated…….I can’t write anymore on this because it will only sound like I am pandering and I am really not. It was just so humbling and I wanted to share that with you. There is a special camaraderie between the crew who were here during the fire and I expect there always will be.
As well as the 1,200 Carnival crew and the dollop of Carnival shoreside management onboard, there are 236 technicians onboard. These technicians are not just here for the work in the engine room. You see, the ship has been in full dry dock mode with deep cleaning inside and out being carried out, mirrors being replaced in most of the guest cabins, a new dance floor being laid in the aft lounge and lots of other important work.
Think of the ship not having any air conditioning inside her for many weeks. Not having air flow inside can cause horrible problems to carpet and fittings and thus much of the ship has new carpet for which a special team is onboard to lay. Some of the busiest people are Linda the housekeeping manager and her team who are now slowly getting the cabins prepared for guests once again as well as deep cleaning all the public lounges. Everything, I mean everything is covered in plastic sheeting. Chairs, carpet, fixtures, decking, glass doors, stairwells, cabin stewards……..everything is covered and this covering will only come off the day before we arrive into Long Beach. That day by the way is late afternoon on the 18th and we will be leaving San Francisco early morning on the 16th.
As for what has happened down in the engine room, well what can I say? I haven’t had too much time to chat with Chief Engineer Messina and the technical chaps from Carnival HQ but I can tell you that having seen the damage down there directly after the fire and seeing where we are now, ready and prepared to re-enter service……well it is quite simply extraordinary. They cut a huge hole in the side of the ship and maneuvered a brand new diesel generator the size of which you will see shortly into the engine room. Before that they had to run an unbelievable 200 miles of cable but not before dismantling the old engine, remove 200 miles of old cable and goodness knows what other amazing work. You know, Carnival has taken some stick about how long it has taken for these repairs to be completed but being here now, seeing the work that was involved, well 3 months or so doesn’t seem that long really.
Now when we realised we need a new diesel generator we didn’t just call the local Pep Boys. We had to have one built to specifications and then get it here to the ship. And that itself was needed to be done as quickly as possible. Normally this would have be sent on a ship but that would have been too slow. So we flew it here on the world’s largest cargo plane and it was quite a spectacular sight………………as you will see now.
And now exclusively here on the blog thingy we can go inside the engine room of the Carnival Splendor and see how the new engine was placed inside.
Yesterday we spent the day with the men and women of United States Coast Guard who carried out a day of strict testing. I won’t go into too many details here but we had blackout tests and diesel generator tests and CO2 distribution tests and I am happy to say we passed them all.
And so this means that we can depart as I mentioned on the 16th and head home to Long Beach. I wanted you all to know all of the above because I have had quite a few people mention that they were a little nervous about cruising on this ship.
I can understand this to a certain degree but also want to say this: To those of you who have booked to sail on the Carnival Splendor you are getting a ship that has been thoroughly tested and will continue to be tested on the journey to Long Beach. These tests have been carried out by the best in the business, Lloyds Registry, the United States Coast Guard, The NTSB and the finest engineers in the business many of whom work for Carnival Cruise Lines. Plus you are getting a ship that was only two years old before the incident but who after weeks of deep clean, new carpets and more, looks like she did when I first saw her in the shipyard in Italy. Put all of this together and add the massively important fact that Carnival is committed to cruising from the West Coast…….well you have brand new vessel, sailing to brilliant ports of call……and this is something that we should be shouting from the rooftops. Carnival Splendor is ready to return to service and on Saturday February 20…. she will do………..have you booked yet?
Tomorrow I will tell you all about some of the other work going on in here plus I will have more photos of the Carnival Valor dry dock and an interview with the new cruise director of the Carnival Splendor.
My mate Vance from PR is always telling me that the travel the press read my blog………and he is right. Here is my mate Captain Greybeard (yes he has one and its grey) who posted this on his popular column.
Thanks Captain and I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Steve Read another British cruise journalist and friend to many of us and he will be missed.
Well, it is nearly time to go but not before I tell you about one last travel story from this past trip to San Francisco.
I preface this tale by explaining that I was a little bit grumpy the last few days and some of that spilled over to be a my Facebook replies to some folks from Cruise Critic who doubted my some of the things I was talking about and expressed their doubts in what I perceived to be a cruel way. I let I them get to me and I shouldn’t have but I was going through one of those “I really miss my girls” moments.
This was mostly due to the fact that I had heard Kye say “Dadda” over and over and over again on the phone as tough she could not understand why she could hear me but not see me……..it really got to me.
Anyway, Kye has very much been in my thoughts and she still was as I arrived in Atlanta on Saturday for my connecting flight to California. I had two hours to kill so I went to TGIF’s and ordered some lunch. As I sat nibbling on my Santa Fe salad and some boneless chicken wings I saw a man in his late twenties sitting on his own. He was dressed in US Army fatigues and had the ISAF badge on his right arm. He was talking on his cell phone and obviously talking to his son or daughter. He was telling them that he loved them very much and that he would see them in 7 months and that 7 months was not a long time. As he said this solitary tear fell down his cheek.
Here then was a man who judging by the ISAF patch was heading to Afghanistan to serve his country. He wouldn’t be on a luxury cruise ship or staying in a nice hotel. He would be in harm’s way…..serving his country. Seeing this made me feel so guilty and put into perspective what I was doing and what he and many thousand more like him were doing.
I paid my bill and without telling him I asked the waitress if I could pay his bill as well. It was the best $21 I have ever spent.
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.
Thank you for doing such a great thing for the young man. Your story brought tears to my eyes. My husband is in the USAF and I pray the day never comes where he is sent overseas. I appreciate everything that you and your company do for the military. My husband will proudly be wearing his dress blues on our upcoming cruise.
Your post about the young man in uniform brought tears to my eyes. We can’t do enough for these young men and women and I think it was lovely that you “paid it forward”. You are a remarkable man, John Heald, and I know your family, friends and fans are all proud of you! I think it was fate that placed you on the Splendor for that cruise. No one could could have done it better!
That was a very nice, emotional story John. Thanks for sharing.
Loved the pictures too. I can’t wait to see the Splendor in all her glory. (Sorry, wrong ship. I can’t wait to see her in all her SPLENDOR lol!)
Dear John —
It’s *ssholes like Platinum Cruiser that prompt me to tip extra every chance I get! What a crap-filled attitude, and a cheapskate besides!
John I agree with KJ…I have seen many posts from the Platinum Carnival Cruiser, and had admiration for this person…UNTIL I read their tipping policy. That is just plain wrong! I know those folks work so hard and I give their tips and then some extra. Only once I have had such a bad cabin steward that I threatened to pull just his tips…it got back to him and he straightened up! ( I did not ask for extra anything…just the normal things…fresh towels, ice and clean wash cloths…Nothing that would have been out of the realm of his duty)
KATHY BERMAN–
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your friend. One of my high school classmates had a double-lung transplant last year due to CF, so I’ve learned a lot recently about how devastating that disease is to patients, families, and loved ones.
Regarding the cruise DVD you’re looking for, have you posted on Cruise Critic or other cruiser message boards? You may be able to find someone who was on the same cruise with you who has the DVD and would be able to make you a copy.
Good luck!!
I agree, posting on cruise critic might find you one of those videos. There are some very helpful people on that forum.
Oy, another tipping thread. That letter sounds fake from the supposed platinum guest who doesn’t tip. Hard to believe someone could take 10 cruises and never tip. Fortunately, when I get good service I overtip to make up for him. I tip bartenders on the ship even though a gratuity is included. They remember me when I come back. I tip the dealers at the blackjack table. I’ve walked away even and the dealer was up. In the scheme of things, the money is cents (since we don’t have pennies in the US) and I’ll never miss it. By the time I’m 80 it will be a vague memory. I wish you had renamed “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” to something more appropriate. “Carnival Crackpot Cruiser” comes to mind.
The only unfortunate thing about your post is that your extra tip and the extra tip i leave for the room stewards and waiters should be extra for them and should not have to make up for someone elses cheapskate ways. The service is always excellent on a Carnival cruise and I cant imagine how much hard work they have to put into it to make our vacations as wonderful as they are. They deserve so much more!
John, That last bit has tears streaming down my face!! My brother in law is also on his way to Iraq and had to leave my sister and his 6 children behind. This is his second tour there with the last being about 8 years ago. I know that he and his family would appreciate your kindness to the soldier and I just wish more people were outwardly appreciative of the sacrifices they make whether or not they agree with the politics. Michelle
I too had tears reading the good thing you did for that soldier. I have a son with that same patch on his Army fatigues and someone did that same thing for him when he went out to eat in the airport. He never knew who did it , so I am thanking you, John. That very well could have been my soldier son. Thank YOU.
Dear John – Pretty Please with Sugar on Top Reply
I’m going on my first cruise ever on the April 18-23 sailing of the Carnival Fantasy. My recently retired (37 years as a teacher and guidance counselor) mother will be my partner in crime for this trip. She hasn’t been on a cruise since she graduated from college in 1973 when the whole trip cost a whopping $100. We have been talking about cruising for years and now are finally able to go now that she has free time and I have the disposable income.
I found your blog during researching and selecting our trip and I have really enjoyed reading these past few weeks, including going back and reading far more archives than I can believe. I’m writing today to make a request that you can help to make this cruise an even more special experience for my mom than it already promises to be.
My mom and I aren’t much for champagne, although that is a lovely treat so I wanted to see you have another suggestion. She *does* love a good bloody Mary though so if other drink coupons might be an option that would be awesome. I honestly appreciate anything at all that you would be able to pass along to the staff that would make my mom’s trip amazing.
My mom Debbie and I will be in cabin E3. If you need any other information please let me know. Thanks in advance for considering my request and I hope to hear from you soon.
Erin Bain
the name of the show with dick van dyke was diagnosis murder
That’s it. I used to love that show and stayed up with my mum to watch it.
Shout out to ‘Platinum Cruiser’
I too am a PC, and ya know what? If you can’t afford to tip, you shouldn’t be on a ship. It’s people like you that give us the same reputation as the French..jk…
Please reconsider cruising and just go camping where you do all the work, and then you don’t have to worry about tipping. Camping is fun, and that way you aren’t stiffing a whole group of the hardest working people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. m’kay, sweetcheeks?
In regards to Carnival Platinum Cruiser’s tipping habits. You should be ashamed of yourself. The crew on board the Carnival ships work so hard. They deserve your respect and even more so your tip. You are right that tipping is voluntary, but it sounds to me that you are just cheap. I hope that you are in the minority in your tipping habits and that you or your family members never have to work for tips so they don’t have to be treated the way you treat service people who work so hard to serve you and make your vacation the best it can be.
Hi John,
As for the guy who doesn’t tip the stateroom people……………..he says that tipping is an individual right, BUT then he goes on to suggest that other cruisers follow his example. All I can say for him that he is probably one of the AIG executives who stole all your money. If he’s stingy & doesn’t want to tip, fine. But don’t encourage others to do likewise.
Hello John, I’m a new reader of your blog and loving every minute of it. Also love the FB stuff. My question is how is it determined what cruises you will be on and how far in advance do you know?
I’m sailing on the Miracle Jan 29th 2012 just wondering……..
Dear Bill,
At the top of the blog on the left hand side you will find the Cruise Directors schedule thru June I believe.
Cruzin2some
Well I think that “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” is a disgrace. I don’t know why they publicize their behavior let alone why they would want a reply to that post. (They didn’t even ask a question) Many times people on this blog have discussed that people that don’t tip are just cheap. This goes beyond being cheap as the poster admits that they don’t even tip when they receive good service, ” I take off my tips for the waiter as well and if they meet my high expectations then I tip, if not, I don’t. Tipping is an individual right.”
While I admit that tipping is an individual right I think “CPC” is lucky that the exceptional service levels of the Carnival Crew are not. These people work so very hard to meet and exceed expectation for each guest every week and in my experience they most always exceed expectations. The fact that this “CPC” has been on 21 cruises tells me that they have been pleased with the experience. I think that it is just sad that “CPC” is not willing to pay for the exceptional service that they have received over and over again. Cheap won’t begin to classify this person, we all know the hours and time away from home that is required by the crew to make a decent wage to provide for their family.
The crew is forced to watch us shower ourselves in excess on vacation and they smile and make sure that we have a great time while doing it. Meanwhile “CPC” can’t spare the $10.00 a day Carnival recommends to provide the fine crew members with compensation for their hard work. Be ashamed “CPC” and while John would never say it himself, find another company to be cheap with. You don’t deserve to be a “Carnival Platinum Cruiser.”
John
When Bryon was working for Carnival I use to feel the same way. I worried about him and missed him even though we talked to him weekly. His first on the Sensation was really hard as it was hurricane season and I watched the weather constantly. Then I put in perspective that he was working on a cruise ship and not in Iraq or elsewhere and although I still missed him, I knew I would see him soon and he was safe.
Sometimes we just have to step back and realize that others are in worse situations than ours.
Karen (formerly Techmom-although he is doing Tech work here in Ohio just not on a cruise ship anymore)
First of all I wish there was a big “like” button on this blog thingy for what you did for the Armed Forces man. You have a big heart.
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family today. It is very difficult to lose someone and losing them on a holiday makes all the more difficult.
The other thing I wanted to let you know is “Diagnosis: Murder” is the name of the tv show with Dick van Dyke.
And, finally, to the blogger who said he does tip the room stewards – go eat some yellow snow. It tastes just like a frozen lemonade. That is the best tip I have for you.
Thanks again for all that you do John!
Nite
Trina
John,
You are the sweetest, and I am having trouble keeping the tears from spilling over myself!
On the subject of tipping… the post from “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” is so bold that I nearly considered that the writer was trolling you to get a response. As usual, you handled it with aplomb and your response was spot on. My thoughts: traveling on a typical cruise ship is agreeing implicitly and explicitly to an agreement, bargain, scheme – whatever you wish to call it – that REQUIRES the traveler to tip. Of course it is voluntary, but so is: covering your mouth when you sneeze; not hollering and screaming in a movie theatre; wearing clothes when you go grocery shopping; not throwing your food at the table nearest you… in other words it is simply good manners to tip. Not tipping when you KNOW that part of the service provider’s wage is dependent upon those tips is rude, thoughtless, hateful, selfish, mean-spirited… need I go on?? The writer of the original post is exactly the kind of customer who is never satisfied, who is always right when they are usually wrong, and is a general pain in the arse to be around. I sincerely hope I do not have the displeasure if crossing paths with him/her. John – THANK YOU for all your work to stay in touch with us. And an “attaboy” for picking up that serviceman’s tab at the restaurant. I suspect “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” would never even consider such an act, let alone actually do it.
John:
Indeed, the “tipping” topic.
I believe this is one of the things that has changed for the worse over the years.
Years ago (on many mass market cruise lines, not just Carnival), individuals walked up to their cabin steward and wait staff with pride and handed them “the envelope”.
Today, you have individuals who can’t afford to cruise and tip…so they don’t tip.
There is no excuse for it (although as you have already read…many try to find one.)
The bottom line is that these are not tips in the true sense of the word.
And anyone that has traveled past their sidewalk at home knows that!
These are service surcharges. It is the way these individuals earn the bulk of their salary. It is how the mass market cruise lines~not just Carnival~ have designed the crew’s pay scale.
I, too, DO NOT AGREE WITH THIS METHOD! I think this should be called a service surcharge and should be added to the cost of the cruise (and can not be removed) just like the fuel surcharge was.
Why? Because you are always going to have individuals who will stiff the crew.
STIFF is an ugly, vulgar term that denotes arrogance and ignorance…but it fits.
These individuals understand that this is how the crew earns a living and yet, they do not care. These individuals understand that it has been this way forever, and yet they book the cruise anyway with the full intent to stiff the crew.
IF these individuals are so repulsed by this practice, why do they cruise?
Someone, who is standing on any kind of “principle” about this, would not cruise.
But you see, they have NO PRINCIPLES. They aren’t taking a stand about anything. They are just being cheap, arrogant, entitled morons.
period…
Sadly, Carnival is experiencing more and more pitiful little individuals like this. And that is not fair to the crew.
Carnival went to using the Sail and Sign charges. People said service would drop…it did not. We have sailed on every Carnival ship (most since the Sail and Sign tip method was implemented) and the service has been excellent.
While some people will say that service will drop if Carnival goes to service surcharges, I say BALONEY! These are individuals who take great pride in a job well done.
It is time that Carnival stepped up and took the lead in this matter by collecting the service surcharge at the time someone books the cruise.
This is the only way to protect the crew from the uneducated, the entitled and the downright pitiful cruisers out there.
Linda (Mom of your friend ~thrilled that Earnhardt Jr got the Pole for the Daytona 500~ DJ)
I totally agree with Linda! Here in Europe, the gratuity is added to the Sail and Sign account, but is compulsory and cannot be removed. It isn’t a tip, it a service charge – and why should anyone work for nothing?
John, why don’t all lines make it compulsory – what do the bosses say?
Wouldn’t it be fantastic if he then won the race!! Larry was there ten years ago and now doesn’t want to be there again.
I disagree. I prefer the system the way it is. Those of us who show our appreciation may get better service. As I wrote, I tip above the amount and find the employees appreciate it. If I buy a soda card, even though the gratuity is included, I will often tip the bartender. Especially the women, who give a little extra service in the form of a smile and friendly greeting no matter how busy they are.
I’m also going to ask my cabin steward for some extra items like wine glasses and more ice so I will tip him above the basic daily amount I include in my fare. Whether I would get the same service without that extra tip, which I give him the first day, I don’t know as I’ve always done that.
Including the tips in the fare means the cabin stewards and cleaners have no extra incentive to go above and beyond, besides the threat of being fired for sup-par performance. I call that a negative incentive and I don’t think it brings about good performance.
I agree Danny K…my thoughts exactly. While they should be tipped for great service, I don’t feel that it should be carved in stone as something I HAVE to do. Tipping is a bonus for great service. Basic service is what their salary is for – tipping is for going above and beyond…and that might change for some if it were made mandatory and unchangeable. I like prepaying with my final balance, but like that fact that I still have some say along the way if required.
DannyK: I think that is the point. While Carnival (and other cruise lines) CALL this a tip or a gratuity… it is not.
This isn’t like a waitress that makes $2,70 (or whatever the amount is) PLUS TIPS.
These individuals’ core salary is about $70.00 a month. Carnival and other cruise lines use this method to pay their employee’s SALARY.
Even when you (or I ) did not do the best job at work one week…we still got paid.
Sadly, while in a perfect world, this would not be an issue….this is not a perfect world.
You have groups that take up 1/3rd to 1/2 of the ship that DO NOT TIP AT ALL. They are not foreign….it is not about their culture. They are Americans who refuse to spend money on anyone but themselves.
When you have 50% not tipping on any given cruise, that is an issue that can not be ignored.
Perhaps a compromise would be to only make tips mandatory on GROUPS over 25. That way, no one cabin steward or wait staff that is stuck with that group ends up working for free.
Linda (Mom of DJ)
You forget they also get room and board, medical etc. What do you value that at? They are well paid by Carnival. Funny how so many think they are not.
Dear Linda and I’m glad he got the pole too DJ,
Anyone who thinks the crew doesn’t deserve the tips should try being away from home for six months at a time, waiting on inconsiderate passengers while trying to keep a smile on their face. The crew does a great job and are always so helpful. We usually try to give more or bring them something special and leave it in the cabin with a thank you note for them. To not tip these hardworking people who knock themselves out to ensure that you have a pleasant cruise is LOW CLASS at best and NO CLASS as far as I am concerned.
My two cents worth to go along with yours.
The cRUZIN2SOME
I agree Linda. Stiffing the staff is just plain rude in my opinion. I usually prepay gratuities before the cruise so if they added it as a service charge with the cruise fare it seems easy enough to me.
P.S. I’m glad Jr’s on the pole too and keeping my fingers crossed for good luck on Thursday with the Twins and for the 500 on Sunday.
Wonderful to hear the great news about “your” Splendor. Safe travels – enjoy!!
Tina
I can’t imagine why anyone WOULDN’T tip the cabin stewards. Those people work harder than anybody and if anyone deserves it, it’s them.
John,
I can’t believe the attitude of Carnival Platinum Cruiser! The room stewards work hard cleaning up after each cruiser. They make the bed, clean the bathroom, vacuum the floor, dust and so on… My husband and I tip weather we are on a cruise on staying in a hotel. I’m on vacation and glad that someone else does this. If you ask me, even though she has been on 21 cruises she is cheep! She seems the type that bring her own beverage on board or just drinks the free stuff. She also sounds like a snob! I hope I don’t meet her on one of my cruises. She will be the demanding person that wants everything, now!
Jane Smith
Hi John,
You should add a warning to grab the Kleenex before you put a tear jerker in there. You are truly a wonderful and caring man. To pay for a soldiers is something not many would take the time to do.
As for the non- tipper- shame on him!! I can’t even imagine not tipping on a cruise! Everyone works hard to please us and that should be rewarded. I have to say, I wasn’t thrilled when it was added to our cards but I got over it. We still hand out envelopes on the last night, some habits are hard to break. I wonder if this guy tips when going out to dinner at home? I would bet not. I guess, to each his own, but it just seems low to not tip.
Thanks for keeping us updated on “your” Carnival Splendor!!
Linda Youse
John, first I would like to thank you for securing the Chef’s Table for me and my son on the Paradise. It will be a perfect way for us to celebrate our birthdays ( a month late, but that’s the gift
)
As for the Platinum Cruiser that never tips…I take issue with this, since for the majority of my life I have worked for tips. My mother was a chambermaid in a hotel and tips were a large portion of her income too.
Now, in a perfect world, corporations would pay a large enough salary to their employees that tipping would not be required or necessary. But if they do that, you can expect prices of hotel rooms, cruises, food, etc to increase by 20-30%. I personally would rather pay less for my vacation and set aside some tip money.
I do believe ihn tipping for service received. If the service is bad, by all means, reduce or remove the tip. But if the service is good, give what you feel it is worth.
People who purposely don’t tip, in my line of business, receive a lower standard of customer service. But if you don’t ever tip, you wouldn’t know. Money doesn’t buy class.
Now I can’t stop thinking about Mr. Pink. Where’s Lawrence Tierney when you need him?
John, Thank you for your kindness.
Oh yeah I am booked. Feb 27th and March 6th sailings. Was booked before the fire and didn’t think for a second to try and change it. Can’t wait to sail on the Splendor and enjoy all 3 ports!!!
Carnival Platinum Cruiser,
On behalf of all the fine staff on Carnival ships I would like to deliver you a message since they would never do it. .!.. YOU.
BIG Ed
AMEN! People that don’t tip are the puss on the bottom side of a sewage drain. Pond Scum maggots! Worthless entitlement mentality low IQ pieces of flesh.
It sickens me to think that someone would not tip the room stewards or wait staff. They work so hard to ensure you have a wonderful cruise. Personally, I always tip them a little more than recommended. These men and woman deserve to be tipped and more. Shame on you Carnival Platinum Cruiser.
Mary Ruppert: As a former member of the armed services I a sorry to hear of your fathers passing. My wife and I will be on the Glory also and if you would honor us also ,I would like to be there to help send your dad off with honors due to him. We are in cabin 6280.
Mary, as the granddaughter of a WW II veteran, the niece of a Vietnam Vet and the cousin of one currently serving with the Army in Iraq for the 3 time, I would love to be able to honor your father as well.
How very kind of you. Dad would love that you would like to attend his ‘scattering.’ I will contact you as soon as I hear when the staff has made arrangements. I will be in Cabin U6372. Please give me a call if you wish. Mary
Hi John! You had me with a few tears with your comments about the Military guy who is heading back overseas! And thanks for paying for his meal, we do that from time to time also. I do have a request, We are sailing on the Liberty May 14 and we will be celebrating our 35th anniversary, though a bit early as we only have a few times we can sail, as our youngest daughter who plays college level soccer that goes on for quite a while, which we dont want to miss as we go to most of the games no matter where the team is playing. We got married in December so to keep our kids happy, even though one is in college and the other 2 are married, they want us at home for xms. Hubby does not know Im sending this to you, but could you do something little for our 35 anniversary, we will also be Platinum so its been quite a few years that we have been sailing on and off. I just want to make this so special for him…Feel special with him as hes all over the world, sometimes 2 weeks a month, but like you he does what he has to do, just as you do! I love your blog and Im glad you are going to be on the Carnival Splendor where you should be…we do hope to sail again with you at some point. Thanks for all the laughs and really caring about people and what they think…and thanks for standing up to some of the jerks that come your way, You handle it well!
our stateroom is 7320 and our booking number is 40WVO8, I realize you are quite busy so I undertand if you dont have time…Have a fantastic time on the Splendor and also on the new ship with your girls, I know it will be wonderful to be able to spend time with your girls!! thanks so much for being the man that you are….even with your undie problems..keeps me laughing thats for sure!!
In order for John to see your post, you need to put John, please reply at the top.
John,
Outstanding blog! I stand up and applaud you. Many of us forget the pain our young people suffer in just leaving the family at home to do what is asked of them for God and Country. The children should be applauded as well as they are very brave little souls hiding the pain they cannot express.
Great piece about Carnival Splendor. I hope to sail aboard her someday. I sympathize with the lady who does not have credit for her earlier cruises as I was on the Carnivale as well and lost all of my proof. The few picture I took were lost in flooding in my home. I will just have to try harder to cruise more. Convincing my DH will be interesting.
The gentleman who does not tip has obviously never worked in a service capacity. He does not understand the real thoughts behind the tip. I do tip hotel staff! Everyone is working to make your stay worth your coming back. I let them know they have achieved their goals by a tip. I think the tip is a very important part no matter how much the people receive for a wage.
Once again your humor has made my evening.
Bless you.
what a great gesture paying that bill. Americans should all be proud of there troops not like the days of viet nam where they spit on returning soldiers at the airports. witnessed this many times.
Kudos to you, John, your act of kindness made me feel all warm inside. You did a wonderful thing for someone who truly deserved it!!!
First up, Platinum Cruiser with the issue of tips. Lighten up – life is too short! If the big smile that is kept on your face daily (I might be reaching as you don’t really sound like much of a smiler!) isn’t worth the $10 a day out of your pocket – then honestly I feel sorry for you because life is really too short! If the service (on or off a ship) is lacking somewhere and puts a big frown on my face then yes, I will deal with it and may adjust accordingly. But in all of my cruises (and I am a Cruise Specialist Travel Agent so I’ve been on one or two!), I’ve always been surrounded by staff that not only did they job – which is what the salary is for – but they went out of their way to make sure that I was having a great vacation – so much so that I remember almost all of their names several cruises later…and that my friend is what the tipping is for!
And Lewis from PA sweetheart, perhaps you should take a lesson or two on manners. You somehow forgot your please and thank you’s. Otherwise, visit the Carnival site for the contact info for the dining department – that’s not Johns department!
And thirdly – John. Thank you for your generous gift to the military gentleman. Prior to my travel agent life, I spent 16 years in the Canadian military. There are days in uniform out in the public where you feel pretty solitary – like no one “gets it” outside of the military world. That we signed a blank check to our country in the amount up to and including our lives. So thank you for the gesture – to you it might be $21, but to him, it means more than you know…
Have a great night!
Cheers!
Dot
Oh something else I just remembered John, now that we are talking about the military. I know that Carnival gives special rates to members of the US military. Has any thought been given to extend this to your little brother up north? Or perhaps even to military members in other NATO countries?
John –
I want to say how disappointed I am with the Platinum cruiser who doesn’t tip his room stewards or his servers at dinner. His rationale doesn’t make sense: We’ve spent a lot of time on our cruises getting to know those hard workers, and we know they don’t make a ton of $$$ from Carnival. They rely on the goodness and generosity of those sailing to make up the difference. Why would a person, who knows they rely on tips to make a respectable living, punish them because he thinks Carnival is too cheap? Regardless of whether Carnival is too cheap or not, these people have families they support with the tips they earn. Just knowing this helps me want to be the biggest blessing to them that I can be.
John: If Mrs Ruppert gets to hornor her father the way that she has asked I would request that some kind if hornor be presented to him on the ship for his service to his county and his family. This could even be done if it doesn’t happen.
First– do you know how close you are to the Jelly Belly factory?! Granted, it’s an hour or two from SF on the way to sacramento, but if you have the time, go. All the sugar-free jelly beans a CD could want
Second-(Sniffle) John, good thing you weren’t telling me this story in person…or you would’ve seen a couple tears run down my cheek and before we know it, we’re both crying our eyes out.
A good cry makes me hungry though. And San Fran has good seafood, italian, and chinese food (or so I hear). McCormick and Schmick’s is good and has a nice view if you can get a table. Good calimari that any italian officer would enjoy. And then you can burn that dinner off by walking up the hill to the touristy Ghiradelli’s chocolate store- where u might find sugar-fre chocolates.
Well John,
You did it again…have me laughing one minute and crying at the end. That was a wonderful thing you did paying for the Army man’s dinner. We’ve done the same thing a couple of times. Those people put their lives on the line for us every day. It’s a nice way to say Thank You to them. I’m sure you helped his day go a little bit better.
Thanks for the pics of the Splendor’s generator…very interesting hearing about what all has gone on. Enjoy the Splendor….you deserve it.
Two comments:
Carnival Platinum Cruiser, you are a jerk. Really, stiffing the staff that takes good care of you and your room? You should be ashamed of yourself.
John, you have every right to miss your family when you are gone. Although you aren’t “in harms way”, you are still away from your family and that’s hard no matter what you do. As for all of the service personnel out there, we thank you for your continued service to our country and appreciate you and your families every day. I’m sure the man appreciated you picking up his tab John, it was a very nice thing to do.
Dear John,
Today was your best blog ever to date….and as a native of “The City” (San Francisco) it was just a thrill to see the new engine arrive and to get a look at what is involved in the installation of it. Karl Malden was the actor to which you alluded earlier. As an asside, my wife and I no longer celebrate on July 4th, as her dear brother passed on the eve of that day, so I understand. I hope while you are there that you can visit some of the local restaurants, many of which are wonderful. Also the home field of the WORLD CHAMPION SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS is a short walk away.
You might also check out the restored street cars that roam the city. A cable car ride would be good for you also. Best to you and the ship’s company.
David
Just read to the end and I must say, that was a wonderful gesture on your part (one which I hope to repeat someday).
Glad to hear the splendid update of the Splendor and thanks for replying to my previous reply. Hope to cross paths with you someday.
Thank you John for being a great man for once again for thinking about a complete stranger. That says a lot about you as a person, one who cares about mankind. I was watching The Ellen DeGeneres Show and I was happy to see that right there was a commercial dealing about Carnival. It’s about time to see Carnival along with another TV programme. I’d like to see more things with more TV shows.
Have a great tome in San Francisco and the Carnival Splendor’s new beginning.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
OOps! If you could please remove my last name if you publish my previous comment, I would appreciate it! Thank you!
it’s o.k.to leave your name Victoria.
I loved your post and completely agree with you.
Hi John,
WWWT with you and Felipe.
Who are the ACD and the host ?
We enjoyed the 6 days with you on the Carnival Freedom.
It won’t be much longer until you’re home with your girls.
CYA soon on the Carnival Glory
Carolyn and Don
XXX to Heidi and Kye
John (no need to reply),
Wow, incedible photos of the ship’s replacement generator being loaded on that cargo plane. Now I know why the beards couldn’t fly you first class to SF, they had another expensive airfare to pay.
What an awesone gesture of pciking up the tab for the G.I. in TGIF’s. Wouldn’t it have been great if “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” would have paid for his tip? Oh wait, nevermind…
Marty (& Jeanne) Paul
P.S. “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” needs to crawl back under that bridge he crawled out from under…….troll.
Thanks for the photos of Splendor and for paying the soldier’s lunch tab, John.
God Bless you John, you’re a good man.
John,
I was sorry to hear, but not surprised, that some have complained about the time involved in getting the Carnival Splendor back in service.
I just wanted to say thankyou to Carnival for doing the job right! Your willingness to take the time and invest the money, to do the job in the proper way, once again demonstrates Carnival’s commitment to the safety and comfort of their guests.
Your comittment to safety and excellance in all you do, means you will ALWAYS have my business! O.K., I will admit that the loads and loads of FUN have something to do with it also. But, when I bring my family onboard, I want to know they are going to be safe, and on Carnival, there is never any boubt that we are always in good hands!
Thanks for all you do my friend! Hope to see you on the Carnival Magic in Galveston come December.
Doug Robertson
John you’ve said a lot of things I find interesting, a lot of things I have to disagree with and a lot of things I agree with. But your final sentence of this blog is the best thing I’ve ever read in this blog. Especially today for those of us celebrating Valentines, remember those who are miles away for their loved ones, serving their country.
Thank you
Ron
Thanks John, a wonderful story about lunch in Atlanta. Thanks for sharing that! I would like to think I would have done the same thing.
Mr. Heald,
The world would be a better place if there were more people like you!
thanks for the treat for the serviceman, Charlie does that all the time. and as to the dude that doesn’t tip? I wonder if he tips his waitress at home. what a cheapskate and he seems to be bragging about it. sorry fellow, it makes you look really really bad. just sayin’…
smiles, bee
xoxo
Hi John,
The TV series with Dick Van Dyke was Diagnosis Murder. We like it as well and have some of the DVDs.
I’m sure you’re missing Heidi and Kye now but thank you for your kind gesture towards the young soldier. That was a very nice thing to do for someone who is going a long way from home to a place that is not fun at all.
See you soon.
Linda & George
Thanks John for putting things into perspective for all of us. What a lovely thing for you to do for the soldier. I did that for one when we flew to sail on the Carnival Dream last year, he was just buying juice and a snack, but it just felt so good to do. Maybe I will go to Starbucks tomorrow and pay for the car behind me
See you soon!!
Bobbi
John,
I loved what you did for that serviceman at the Atlanta airport.
Wow, powerful finish to this blog John. It’s hard to be away from family regardless of where our jobs take us but especially so for those in the service.
Carnival Platinum Cruiser: I hope there aren’t any more like you around. I’m glad you enjoy the perks without showing your appreciation for someone’s hard work. I’ll bet you don’t tip in any restaurant do you? My wish for you is that someday you have to earn a living from tips.
That is not only one big generator but one huge plane that brought it..yikes! I wish I was there to see the beautiful new Carnival Splendor.
Oh Wow John, that story about the soldier was so touching i had a tear run down my cheek. We do forget at times what our service men are giving up to keep us safe. So a big Thank You to all the servicemen that keep us safe every day!!! Please be safe
John,
Thanks for booking our chefs table, also the info on the splendor wich we will be on in 40 + days. Awesome gesture to the soldier who like you said will not be on a cruise ship but serving our country. I think our vets appreciate this kind of thanks more than any of us know. Take care of my ship and work out any bugs before we get on please
John regarding the folks who were looking the video maybe they can find someone on cruise critic who has a copy of that cruise. It’s a long shot but sometimes miracles happen.
Hello John,
I have just discovered your blog today and wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying your writing style.
My husband, our 3 children and I are booked on the Splendor in April 2012 (still along way off, I know!) and appreciate you posting the photos of the new engine installation.
I have travelled extensively (it is a favorite pasttime for many Australians) but have not cruised for over 20 years. I think that we have made a very good choice in selecting Carnival, and the Splendor, for our 2012 holiday.
Best regards
Dear Aussie with the Itchy feet,
Just in case you hadn’t heard the word. In 2012 Carnival is moving the Beautiful Carnival Spirit from San Diego here in California and moving it to Sydney Australia. I haven’t checked out the Itinerary but I have been on the ship and can tell you that she is a very classy lady indeed. You lucky blokes will absolutely love her and I may just have to come down under and see my first love once see relocates as she was the first ship that Nancy & I ever cruised on.
Happy sailing,
The Cruzin2some
John,
To put it simply, Carnival Platinum Cruiser is just a D-bag. I think anyone who does not offer some sort of gratuity for service personnel has absolutely zero right to complain about such service under any circumstance.
John – If everyone would give to a service person as you have without question it would help make the world alittle batter for all. I salute you for you kind heart.
I ask nothing of you John, just of everyone else who read this, for you to pickup a tap of a military service person when you can. Or at least go up to one and Just say “Thank You” to them as It will go along way with them to know we all care that they are helping us all to be Free.
John:
I am sorry the Platinum member decided that tipping his cabin cleaner is not necessary. I can’t believe he even compared his cabin to a hotel room. I too am Platinum with Carnival, and, one of the reasons I continue to sail with Carnival is the wonderful service we receive from both our cabin attendents and table waiters. I feel sorry for the wondeful crew that are not given any gratutites from this CHEAP PERSON. I also feel sorry for him, as he seems to only care about himself.
Marie
John,
Thank you for that wonderful story about the serviceman in Atlanta and THANK YOU for paying it forward. However, this story really started the waterworks rolling down my face as it reminded me of my father. I last talked to him on Christmas in 1965 while he was in VietNam and he was killed on Jan. 6, 1966. Our last conversation was very similar to this serviceman’s. Oh, Lord, I pray he returns safe and sound to his loving children.
God Bless,
Diane
John? That soldier was one of the crew members that replaced the ones that left there the other day and heading home to Horseheads, NY.. My brothers BEST friend since kindergarten is with the ISAF as well. He is to be married August 13th of this year. My brother is the best man.. The $21 you spent on his dinner made his day/month/year by far.. And I salute you for this!! HAPPY AND SAFE SAILING!!!
To Mary Berman…………
I too am sad to hear of your loss and would like to offer a suggestion to help locate a tape that you are missing from your sailing……
There is a wonderful free social networking site called cruisecritic.com where those of us that love cruising discuss all things having to do with our passion.
I am almost certain that if you would visit that website and post your request to Host Mach on the Carnival board, that he or possibly one of several Cruise Critic members that may have been on your cruise could help you obtain a copy of the tape.
John or one of the Stepanies………..please feel free to share my email address with Mary, in case I can post her request on Cruise Critic for her.
John,
As a retiree from the United States Army I salute you for your kindly gesture to the service member you described at TGIF. It is always interesting and enlightening when you consider your place when compared to another human being.
I see that today…As I have been recently diagnosed with cancer (but am not suffering any symptoms) I often hear folks complaining about what seems to me little concerns. But when thinking about it, the size of the issue is all about where you are in your personal world.
My wife and I are confident in sailing on the Splendor on Sept 20th. As we are celebrating her birthday and my last overseas trip foe awhile due to treatment for cancer.
Stay healthy and keep a stiff upper lip Old Man as they say.
Hi John
Just got back from a fantastic trip on the Carnival Miracle. I will write more about that once I find some more time. Thank you for your update on the Carnival Splendor for whom I have a very soft spot. I sailed on her to the Baltic and also the repositioning to LA from Miami. She is a great ship and what happened to her was unfortunate. Carnival has done everything possible to ensure its return to service will ensure a sturdy ship and cruise to all who sail on her again.
One point I really wanted to make was to Mr. Carnival Platinum. Like John said whatever one says to you is not going to make a difference however when you see the excellent way that we are cared for on our cruises, it is thanks to these individuals. Gratuities are normally given for services rendered and boy do they deliver to us on a Carnival cruise. I will be honest and admit that I have only ONCE taken away an automatic gratuity payment and this was while I was on an NCL cruise last November through the Panama Canal. I found the staff arrogant, unfriendly, and all around, the atmosphere was definitely not one conducive to a vacation. The only exception were the cabin stewards and I ensured that they were tipped accordingly. I agree that if it is not warranted then one should not really think of tipping, however to make a blanket statement and be proud that you do not tip – well what else can one say – I feel sorry for you for being such a scroogey, negative person. Why you bother cruising I don’t know – go back to vacationing in a hotel room.
John thanks for the blog and your total honesty with us that’s why we keep reading.
Eva
In SF at the RSA conference. Saw the trademark funnel smokestack, with the carnival colors. Was sorta surprised it was not painted new…..looked sorta beat up.
Dear John:
I just wanted to tell you i think you have the most wonderful heart. I’m sure that is why you are so brilliant in your chosen profession. Sleep well.
M
All I have to say to Platnum Cruiser is don’t be so cheap. If you did a job that you expected tips for and you gave great service, you would feel very cheated…and if Carnival had a no tipping rule you would pay for it up front and your cruise would be that much more expensive.
John, you did a very kind thing for that serviceman and he will never forget it. Thank-you.
As always John… you are a class act! Thank you. Most would not have even noticed the soldier.. or done what you did.
As far as the person that never tips the cabin stewards, or hotel cleaning staff… I am guessing they tip for crap at when they go to dinner too. These people think everyone is there to serve them. (This makes them even worse than the “snobs” you talked about wanting to fly first class!)….
I have been told I over-tip… whether it is a waiter or waitress, room steward, driver, or hotel maid… These people are making my life easier, more enjoyable, and carefree. And as long as I am able, I will show them just how much I appreciate what they do!
Dear John:
My husband and I enjoyed the Splendor on the Cruise prior to the fire, debarking Nov. 7 2010. We enjoyed our balcony room on deck 9 opposite the atrium . I want to say to you John, “You were the highland of our Cruise”. My husband of 54 years laughed so hard at you during the “Bed Time Story,” that I can honestly say I have never seen him laugh that much. We have sailed 18 times with Carnival being Platinum members, and appreciate our V.I.P.statis.
For our 50th Wedding Anniversary May 5, 2006, my husband and I took along with us as our guests, our three children, there spouses, and our grandchildren to Celebrate. We enjoyed dinner with the Captain and also the large decorated cake presented to us at his table, along with a chapagne toast. WE AND OUR FAMILY WILL NEVER FORGET OUR GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY,THANKS TO CARNIVAL. I always tell fiends ,my made up Joke, “MOST PEOPLE WAIT ALL THERE LIFE FOR THERE SHIP TO COME IN, MINE HAS ALREADY ARRIVED, AND THAT’S CARNIVAL.”
MY HIUSBAND WAS WONDERING IF THE SAME FLAG OFFICERS WILL BE ON THE SPLENDOR ON FEB. 16 WHEN SHE LEAVES SAN FRANCISCO. WE LIVE IN THE BAY AREA AND DROVE TO SAN FRANCISCO PIER 70 ON fRIDAY FEB 11TH TO SEE HER LEAVE DRY DOCK, SHE LOOKED SO BEAUTIFUL, AND WE FELT PROUD, KNOWING WE HAD SAILED ON HER.
WE WISH YOU , THE STAFF AND CREW OF SPLENDOR ,ALONG WITH ALL THE MANY OTHER CARNIVAL SHIPS “GOOD SEAS, HAPPY DAYS, AND KEEP ON SAILING MY SHIPS.”
HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN SOON,, PATSY
Dear John,
Not the John with the self-proclaimed large, white arse, but the one with the big, beautiful heart. What a heartwarming, thoughtful gesture toward a member of our armed forces.
And you are always welcome in SF…visit us anytime! May the force be with you and crew as you cruise to Long Beach and beyond.
Annette
John, you are good people. Your story there in TGIFs brings a tear. My husband has watched so many of his comrades (Marines and Sailors) lose their families due mostly to the extensive separation and stress, and he himself has lost one due to the same. I also think you’re extra special because you aren’t American, yet you recognize the service of American service members in the same way you do British and any other. I think that is incredibly selfless and progressive. I have unfortunately met some non-Americans that sneer at my husband and assume that he (we) agree with every American policy there ever was. I appreciate, very much, that you do not do that.
to Carnival Platinum Cruiser :
You are cheap ass! I just hope and pray that everyday, you get to your cabin and find 3 inch layer of dust, no mint and no animal towel. I also hope that your bath is
so flthy, that it grosses you out. Also I hope they spit in your food and then serve
it to you with the biggest smile on their face, you cheapskate bastard!
Wow, John, this blog brough tears to my eyes. As I have family that has been to Iraq and a friend killed over there, I say Thank You for what you done for that young man.
I know it has to be so very difficult for you to be away from your wife and Kye as long as you are.
Thanks for all you do
Hi John,
Love reading your blogs. The pictures of the alternator replacement was of particular interest.
I was a Chief Engineer with the Carnival Group in the 80′s. At that time Ted Arison had not only cruise ships but 3 cargo and 2 roll on roll off ships – Tambu Express and Merengue Express – (known as the “Flying Flan”). The cargo fleet were Nosira Madeline, Nosira Sharon & Nosira Lin, named after family members – no Nosira Micky? The ships had the carnival funnel and the Nosira name came from Arison spelt backwards.
What a great touch in TGIF, you are a star.
Very sad about Steve Read, have bumped into him at several cruise ship inaugurals, will be sadly missed.
Regards Chris
Sorry, but a person that doesn’t tip and shouts about it has deeper issues than an aversion to tipping.
File under: TROLL
Exact tuh mundo!
John, You asked what we think about Carnival Platinum Cruiser post, I think that he should take up camping. That way he will have no need to thank the people that make his vacation what it is. He can then roll up his own sleeping bag and cook his own freeze dried food. All he will need is a hole in the ground to take care of his personal needs. I am sure that he can go a few days without taking a nice warm shower. Basically I think that he a cheap slob that needs to find another way to spend his vacation pennies. I have read some of his post on CC and most follow the same kind of warped logic. He is one of those that proves that high post count proves nothing with such low brow content.
Class, pure class, keep up the good work!
John Why don’t you like the French? Is it because of Marquis de La Fayette.
John, you were stretching the truth a little in claiming that Carnival Splendor’s new diesel generator was delivered “on the largest cargo plane in the world.” The pics clearly show the plane is an Antonov An-124 Ruslan and whilst it is a very large cargo plane, it is overshadowed by it’s even larger 6-engined sibling the Antonov An-225. Obviously your forte is cruise ships and not airplanes!
Perhaps John has made a factual error in his reporting on the particular plane. I am certain he did not intend to mislead any of us. I would imagine that you feel quite grand now, a bit bloated, and satisfied for having put him down for an innocent mistake. The aerospace engineer I know would merely have gently corrected him rather than insult him. Perhaps he has more success and can afford to be more forgiving and generous than you. That’s probably his MIT training.
and your point is?? making John feel bad? or just been a showoff? I think I will answer it for you… showoff! Have you ever heard “If you do not have anything nice to say, do not say anything” …
John,
You are a true angel for helping out one that serves our great country so well. Thank you for having such a large heart. God Bless you and Heidi and Kye.
Looks like someone used to do cards like those you’re describing for Alcatraz!
http://www.playle.com/pictures/BEACHGUY778.jpg
Love the idea!
John,
As the grandmother of a soldier, I would like to Thank You. She and all our other brave service people deserve whatever respect & thanks we are able to give them.
I will continue to tip my cabin stewards. I’m also platinum, soon to be milestone.
JoyceG
Mr. Heald,
I really enjoyed today’s blog. Habe you thought about using some of the video conferencing services available so that you can talk to and see your family during the call?
Dear John:
First of all, thank you for what you did for the serviceman at TGIF. That was a wonderful gesture.
Second, to Platinum Cruiser….shame on you!! All crew members work very hard to make your cruise enjoyable and for you to stiff them on a tip is inexcusable.
My husband, myself and another couple (who were cruising on Carnival for the first time) were recently on the Carnival Spirit (Feb. 6-11). We were in cabins 8275 (us) and 8277 (other couple) and LOVED the location on the back of the ship. Our only complaint on that location is the inconsiderate passengers who chose to smoke on the Lido deck right above our cabins and allow their ashes to fall onto our balcony or who decided to drop their drink umbrellas and other trash onto our balcony. Our room steward, Sentana, and his assistant, I Gede, were wonderful. They cleaned our cabin and balcony every day, and Sentana made sure my wash and fold service (I reached Platinum status on this cruise) was taken care of.
A few months ago, I had posted a request that we be seated at a table for 8 as we love meeting other people on cruises and always seem to be placed at a booth for 4. You were on vacation and one of the beards had responded to me that he would send a note to the maitre’d. Let me just say….THANK YOU! When we arrived for dinner on our first night, we were seated at a table for 8 right smack in the middle of the Empire Dining Room. We LOVED this location. Dessi, our maitre’d, was fabulous. She was so sweet, funny and we could tell she truly enjoyed her job…..she even let a tear fall when we thanked her and gave her a hug our final evening. Our head waiter, Pacholo, and team waiter, Wibawa (we called him “Weeeeee” every time we saw him), were top notch and certainly made our dining experience wonderful. Our bar server, Mylanie, did a great job too.
All in all, we had another fabulous Carnival cruise, purchased 2 future cruise certificates, and can’t wait to cruise again (my husband will reach Platinum status) on our next cruise.
Again, thank you so much for all that you do, John.
Jim & Donna
Camby, IN
John,
My wife and I took our first cruise with Carnival aboard the Imagination in 1997. As “first-timers” we were informed by our travel agent what the customary gratuity policy was at that time. Armed with this information, we budgeted and planned our trip accordingly and included the gratuities in our overall expenditures. We enjoyed our vacation very much and especially enjoyed the tremendous service we received from all of the Carnival staff.
The cabin service was impeccable and the wait staff beyond compare. Every night our dining room was packed to the rafters with passengers having a marvelous time. The entertainment and the food could not be beat. This was to be the night when it was customary to present our servers with their well earned gratuity. Imagine then, my surprise when on our last night out the dining room was virtually empty.
I could not believe how cheap these people were. If my wife and I were typical examples of the average cruiser, we had spent literally thousands of dollars on this vacation and I was astonished that people who had enjoyed and taken advantage of all the services so far skipped out on the final dinner where they were supposed to show their appreciation. We simply couldn’t believe it.
Now 15 years later we are planning our second Carnival cruise. I can see from the on-line booking forms that Carnival has opted to allow prepaid gratuities for its staff. “Good on ya” Carnival. You should make it mandatory!. People are cruising on much larger and better appointed ships these days and for half of what we paid for our first cruise. Surely tipping a waiter of room steward is not a hardship for these people and if it is then I have this advice for them. Don’t cruise until you can afford it…. ALL OF IT!
Regards
George
I tend to doubt they skipped because of tips. Some may be celebrating (to excess, is there food at the farewell party?), packing, overate previous nights and cutting back on the last night, wanted to try the buffet they had missed out on previous nights, went to the steakhouse or Chef’s Table, etc. Lots of other reasons. I have no problem going to the MDR on the last night and, even though I will slip the waiter and his assistant something extra, those who had tips included are under no obligation to tip an additional amount. I never heard of anyone skipping the last night dinner because of tips.
That was so sweet of you to pay for the soldier’s lunch. More soldiers should be respected like that.
Lewis, please see Joseph’s post for how to nicely ask a favor for a table. I wouldn’t blame John if he “forgot” to pass your request on to the maitre’d.
I actually tip extra and I would have to receive really horrible service to remove my tips. As hard and as long as the crew members work to make my vacation memorable and relaxing, they deserve it.
Hi John!
I just wanted to take a second to tell you thank you! I sent you a comment about trying to get in on the Chefs Table for my Moms birthday cruise in May on the Paradise. I got my confirmation from the Maitre D’ yesterday! Thanks for forwarding my request, I cant wait to tell my Mom that we get to do this on our first ever cruise.
Thanks again for all that you do!!
~Christy
Regarding tipping:
“Carnival Platinum Cruiser Asked:
Reply Wanted
John. I read your response to Kathy about tipping and as usual you are talking total garbage….. ” Yada, yada, yada….
The letters TIPS stand for To Insure Proper Service. A simple gesture of appreciation. Obviously “Platinum Cruiser” has little appreciation for another persons time keeping him tidy and fed. You handled his post exTREMEly well John. DH and I are sailing on the Glory Feb. 20th, rumour has it you may be on board at some time or another. Hope to bump into to you, well, not literately, you know what I mean!
Cindi….
TIPS does not stand for that. You are ENSURING, not insuring.
How often do you tep?
Ha ha ha! Thanks for the chuckle!
Dear John, (Cruise Report)
We have just finished our five day cruise and wanted to give you a full report as promised.
CRUISE DIRECTOR:
Trevor Block was great period.
He has a marvelous way on stage and had everyone in stiches. Love the picture of him and his little fellow. You could never tell how proud this new Dad was.
CCL FASCINATION:
Although this is an older Fantasy Class ship and could use a little paint here and there on the exterior of the ship. The interior looks as though she just came out of the shipyard. My son’s explored the ship from one end to the other and since this was their first cruise I wanted them to see how fabulous the ships of Carnival are and the Fascination did not let me down. They are now planning their next cruise and I think you have a new pair of cruisers. They absolutely loved the ship and the whole experience. But really whats not to love.
SHOWS:
We only caught the Que Mambo show and was absolutely amazed at the dancers. Especially after the welcome aboard party when Nancy & I went up on stage and tried to dance a slow one and I felt like I had two left feet when the ship would sway just a bit. The dancers make it look so easy. Fabulous show and it will have you wanting to go shake what your Momma gave you.
SUPER BOWL:
The big game was shown on the big screen in the theatre and Carnival put out a tailgate spread that can’t be beat. It was great and the discounted buckets of beer was also a big hit.
PORTS OF CALL:
Nassau is great for shopping. Both us and the boys did a lot of shopping here as the other port was not going to have as much. After attending Daniel’s shopping seminars we got back from our excursion and hit the shops. We caught up with Daniel and signed up for the drawing. Ten minutes later Daniel pulled Nancy’s name out of the fish bowl and she won a beautiful pair of Blue Topaz earrings to go with the two blue topaz stones that the store gave us just for coming in and looking at what they had to offer.
Half Moon Cay in a word PERFECTION.
This little island has the best beach I have ever been to. We went snorkeling and Horse back riding and had such a great time. The Perfect Day at the perfect beach. My son Jeremy says he can still close his eyes and see the beach and since it has been minus eighteen degrees in Minneapolis since they got home is a very good thing to be able to do.
GROOVE FOR ST. JUDES:
Nancy & I both supportted this and bought the T-Shirt and wrist band and danced a line dance on stage. John I think that they could have made this event last longer as it was only two dances. If it lasted longer they would have got more participation and raised more money for the kids. It was still fun and I only wish that more people had joined in.
NEGATIVES:
It only lasted five days.
FOOD & SERVICE:
Aaron works as a chef in a five star restraurant in Minneapolis and I asked him what he thought of the food. He said that considering how many people that they serve each and every day it was better than he had thought it was going to be and was very good. Not as good as a five star restraurant but very good. I told him that on their next cruise they would have to go on a ship that offers the Steakhouse. I told him and Jeremy that the two best meals that Nancy & I have ever had were both on Carnival Ships in the Staekhouse.
ART GALLERY AND AUCTION:
My son Jeremy is an artist and decided to go check this event out and ended up winning the drawing for a free piece of art. He enjoyed the art and the event so much that he ended up buying four other pieces of art and had them sent home. When he told me how much he paid for the four pieces of art I decided that on our next cruise I am going to check this out a little more. Great Deal.
Sorry for the long post about a short cruise but the cruise went off perfectly and we all enjoyed the whole experience and want to thank Carnival for making such a wonderful vacation so affordable to so many people who never thought that they could be treated like one of the rich and famous. And for the Platinum Cruiser who has been on 21 cruises and never tipped the people who work so hard to make your vacation so wonderful. You are a cheap piece of crap and I hope some day you think about someone other than your selfish self. Shame on You!
The Cruzin2some
John, we were on Splendor’s maiden voyage in 2008 from Dover, up the Baltic states and it was great. I hope the upcoming voyage will be as good as the one we had. We are booked on our 15th Carnival cruise this coming June on MAGIC out of Barcelona and know we will get that always magnificent Carnival vacation. We have heard from our great dining room host Ken Byrne and look forward to seeing him again and listening to his Irish voice!
Best wishes to you and Heidi.
Bruce and Debbie Warnock
Cleveland, Ohio
Hi John,
My husband and I just returned from our cruise on the Dream (Feb 5-12th). I must say that I was able to enjoy myself but my husband had a horrible time. On the second day of the cruise he was overcome with severe vomiting and diarrhea and spent the whole night next to the toilet. I forced him to go to the medical centre and they ended up putting him in isolation for 24 hours. He lost a lot of weight on the cruise as for the rest of the cruise he managed to only eat a few pieces of bread, a banana, and an a sandwich. Everytime he tried to eat he would just get sick again. So needless to say I ate every meal by myself as he just stayed in the room.
Of course this happened after we had booked all of our shore excursions, a $249 couples VIP spa package for use of the sauna and dead sea salt pool (used only once), and the steak house. I was very happy that Carnival refunded my money for the shore excursions (I went on one in Belize by myself) and I was able to cancel the steakhouse. I was embarrassed to ask about some sort of partial refund for the spa…is there something that could be done about this??
Also, I was wondering if there were a lot of other people that were sick on this cruise?? When I went to the fun shops to buy pepto bismal they were all sold out including rolaids and tums. We have been on two previous cruises with carnival and have loved them however judging by my husbands reaction he never wants to go on a cruise again. Yesterday was the first day he was able to eat a full meal. Hopefully he will someday change his mind.
I’m not a shrink…but I retired a few years ago after 32 years in the travel industry. I owned my own place for a number of years, managed more than a few agencies on 2 coasts…and worked as a Tour Manager/Cruise Host for over 9 years. (Wish I had done that sooner…what a ride). As John knows, being in the “service” industry requires a special touch, a good ear, and a few courses in transactional analysis (a great capacity for alcohol also can help).
At my agency, we specialized in group travel..mainly group cruises. Carnival was a pipsqueak upstart back in those days. My first “group cruise” was on Mardi Gras when that was the only vessel under the Carnival Flag. We kept a lot of cabins filled on Carnival over the years.
As a Tour Director, I tended the end result of the retail/wholesale/vendor efforts. So, I’ve seen both sides of the “equation” of human behavior when it comes to tipping.
It seems to always come to this: Most people understand the tipping thingie…they tip with the understanding that those who wait on them hand and foot for a week on a ship or for a 3 week land tour have earned it.
For the aforementioned “Carnival Platinum” guy, I’ve seen him everywhere; the most demanding passenger, the loudest complainer, the most distruptive..and usually the one others avoid at all costs!!! He’s the guy who, on a land tour, is always late, leaving others cooling their heels while the Tour Manager runs all over Moscow or Vienna or Las Vegas looking for him. He usually drinks too much at dinner or in the evening becoming loud and obnoxious as the night wears on; the one others complain about. He’s arrogant and truly believes that none of the rules apply to him.
I could go on, but I won’t. (Catch my memoirs…I’ve kept names)… This is my belief about folks like “Platinum”. They are mean-spirited. They lack self-esteem. Having nothing to offer in general, they look at money as a power tool. They tend to look at those waiting on them as servants…as chattel…and treat them like serfs…always threatening by words or actions to withhold his precious money unless the servants do exactly what he wants…and sneers at them. It’s all he has. Knowing that he has nothing to offer, no conversational skills, no personality, he’s an angry man in general. The tipping issue makes him feel as though he has some control somewhere…control that is missing in his everyday life.
You’ll never change these folks. It would take years of therapy.
He’s more to be pitied than scorned. But, I’ve never been that charitable. . He is a lout and a loser whose only worthwhile activity is breathing.
WOW! I really like your post! Very well written! Kudos!
I think you hit the nail on the head with your diagnosis of PlatinumCruiser, BarB! What a sad individual indeed.
How sad it is that “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” was raised to be such a selfish individual. Unfortunately, there is probably no cure. I would wish that they would bugger off to Royal Caribbean, but then their stewards and other hard workers wouldn’t deserve that either…..so sad….
Your friend from Texas,
Larry Meador
John, as usual you have brought tears to my eyes. Such respect and kindness you showed towards the serviceman. I remember when my Dad used to go ahead of us to a new duty location when he was in the Navy, and he would be gone for 6-8 weeks. We missed him and this was (way) before cell phones, internet. We weren’t able to communicate with him except by snail mail. The sacrifice is much, but the privilege is something I will always cherish. You’ve a big heart, and we’re ALL very proud of you!
John, as the wife of a Vietnam veteran, let me thank you for your kindness toward the soldier. My husband and I always make sure to show our appreciation when we see uniformed troops in the airport by shaking hands or giving a quick hug. We will be eternally grateful for what they do for our country and we want them to know.
I believe we just need to gve up on the “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” who does not understand the basics of why there is such a thing as tipping in existance. As Platinum members, we have taken advantage of Carnival’s (and other lines) cruise pricing through the years and believe that tipping is one of the major reasons why we are able to pay the same price today for an outside cabin as we did in 1983 for an inside cabin. Of course the lines make up the difference by charging more money for alcohol and photos, but the wonderful service has remained unchanged. We have come back year after year to Carnival for the consistently great service and have tipped above the recommended amounts with an extra “envelope” on most cruises.
I paid my bill and without telling him I asked the waitress if I could pay his bill as well. It was the best $21 I have ever spent.
John,
If you keep doing stuff like this the world would be a better place, and I’d have to stop reading your blog during lunch hour. Not good making me tear up at work..
best to you and the girls
Dan
John – I so appreciate your gesture to the serviceman at the airport. My son is in the USAF and is deploying in June to Iraq. Last summer, he cruised with us on the Carnival Legend and I asked him to wear his dress blues to the 2 formal nights (I love a guy in uniform). I must admit how surprised I was that not one single person came up to him and thanked him for his service. I guess I expected that as I do this constantly, whether I see a serviceman (or woman) on a cruise ship, in a shopping center food court, or wherever I am. So..the fact that you acknowledged this young man means alot to a Mom who’s going to worry each and every day that her son (and all the others who are deployed) will make it safely back home.
You’re a good man John Heald. God bless you. Safe travels to you and your crew.
To: The “Carnival Platinum Cruiser” You are a cheap A$$ SOB! Next time you are on a Carnival Ship please flip your DO NOT DISTURB sign! That is all…
John,
Our men and women in the armed forces deserve more gratitude like that! I completely agree with your decision and commend you for it! That was AWESOME! You are a truly good man!
Josh
no reply necessary….Mr Heald , my husband and I are sailing on the Carnival Glory on April 17th. Im not here to ask for anything or demand anything. Im writing to THANK you for your Facebook posts and your very funny and informative blog thingy. Because of all your tips and advice I have read Im looking forward to a BRILLIANT cruise. Thank you for all you do and thank you to Heidi and Kye for letting you share so much of yourself with us! I hope to meet you on a cruise someday! You are an exceptional person!
John,
I am happy to say I was aboard the Splendor with you in November. You and the crew did a fantastic job with the little you had to work with. Conditions aboard the ship were not as bad as some of the other guests made them out to be. We have already booked our cruise again and will be traveling with the Splendor in November of this year. It just seems fitting to go back and give her another chance. It was a beautiful ship before and I can’t wait to see her now.
Gina
Dear John,
You have again exhibited the good character we all nkow you to have.
It is for this reason, above many others, my wife and I would not even think of cruising with another cruise line.
I’m quite sure you know this, but your acts of kindness and your friendly nature attract more return business then any stupid rock climbing wall ever could.
You, my friend, are the reason many of us dream, literally in some cases, of cruising.
I count it an honor to call you an all be it distant friend!!!
Now to “Carnival Platinum Cruiser”:
YOU SNOBBY, UNGRATEFUL, CHEAP, GOBBSHITE!!!!!
How could you even think to be so cheap as to stiff any service person?
Get this, We All Pay Good Money For Our Cruise!!
We all know Carnival is the best Value for our money. You should Especially know this after 21 cruises. However, even if it cost double what it does now, 99% of your fellow cruisers would still tip.
My wife and I are by no means wealthy, but the first thing we set aside cash for is our gratuities.
Yes, these service people do make a salary, all be it small,but what we guests give them in gratuities allows them to help their families back home all the more.
Cruisers like you,who do not tip, take for granted all the Hard Work the service staff does FOR YOU so YOU can have a top notch vacation.
Maybe you should for go their services, and offer to do it all yourself for one cruise. Then I bet you would open that wallet.
Get Some Gratitude!!
…..oh, and by the way….I would’nt stand too close to the rail on a windy day.
A lot of people would have just gone on their way after hearing what that soldier said. The fact that you didn’t walk away shows what kind of man you are. I am proud to “know” you even though I have never met you in person.
Hi John,
My husband and I will be on the Miracle on 3/3/11. Was wondering if you could help us get a table for two in the dining room as that is what we prefer when cruising so we don’t have to make table talk with people we don’t know. We would really appreciate it. Aren’t picky on the view although would be nice to be by a window.
We have the 6:00 pm dinner seating. Thanks!!
forgot to mention, we are in room 4110! Thanks again.
Hi John! I don’t usually comment here but the US Armed Forces are all people very close to my heart. My great uncle was in WW2, my uncle was in Vietnam, my ex fiancee was in Iraq, and my brother has served in the USAF. This along with countless friends who have/do serve. I just wanted to say how great it always is to hear of any gesture no matter how big or small for them. I have been a restaurant server for 6 years now and the one table I will never ever forget was a man in the National Guard. It was his and his wifes 3rd anniversary and he was preparing for deployment. I bought their dessert thinking it was the least I could do, and thanked him for his service. At the end of my shift my manager gave me a note written by his wife. You see, this was the first anniversary they had been able to spend together due to boot camp and deployment. She told me that the small gesture I did for them meant so much. She will never know that her note meant far more to me
John, thanks for your kindness to the chap in TGIF. Been there, done that, didn’t get the Tee Shirt. When I came home, I got spit on and called a Baby Killer. Different time, different place, same results – friends gone forever. Anyway, the “Non-tipper” sounds like a real pill. Of course, I would like to see the staff paid a really good wage but from time immemorial the “custom” of tipping on cruises has been with us. If you put the tips on the fare, you would still get a real bargain, but most people would see the lower fare elsewhere and go there. I really enjoy your blog, and thanks for the information on the Splendor repairs. When there is a report issued on the incident by the “men in funny bright suits” would you please let us “Blogg Readers” know.
Have a great day and I wish I could meet you in Long Beach but the suits say the event is “full.”
Cheers,
John in LALALand
John,
Read you Blog today. What a wonderful jester fo you to buy the Soldiers lunch. My wife and I did almost the same thing when we sailed out of New Orleans. We were sitting in Marguritaville having a “Adult Drink” when about a dozen Marines came in and sat down in there dress Blues. My Wife said we should buy them some drinks and Nachos. I told her they could only drink soft drinks because they were in uniform..My wife said and I quote ” So buy them soft drinks and Nachos then”. We told the Bartender to get them those and told her not to say where they came from. When they arrived the Marines look dumbfounded, they didnt know what to say, but be sure, they ate them quickly. Just a FYI, Jimmy Buffett and all Margritivalles give 10% off all purches, Active Duty, Retired, Retired family Members, as long as they have a ID card
I too am a retired Air Force Veteran who served in Vietnam with the Marines and they consider me to be one also. I too had folks spit on me when I got into the terminal after getting back home
I wore my “Vietnam Vetrans” hat the entire time we were on the cruise. Could believe how many folks came up to me and said ” Thanks for your Service”
I have been trying for 4 days now, and have an intense Migraine trying to post for John HEalds and ALL I CAN FIND is how to reply to post.. CAN SOME ONE PLEASE PLEASE HELP ME! I have signed up for the blog, the emails and Im still no closer to posting my question than I was 4 days ago except saying I am utterly frustrated is an understatement! And the fact you can not contact him via Facebook is annoying as well… HELP HELP HELP! MEMPHIS0410@HOTMAIL.COM
Post a note on the blog starting with John, please reply. It won’t post in the comments, but will be sent to John to answer in a later blog.
John,
Kye and Heidi know how much you love them and miss them. I am so proud of you and I don’t even know you! Thank you for thinking of that young man serving his country and picking up his tab. How proud Heidi and Kye must be of you. If everyone would show everyone kindness each day we could CHANGE the world. Remember love from Heidi and Kye help when you are lonely.
Hi, I have never done this before. I have not figured out how to do carnival forums… and I have been reading it for a long time. I know, I’m computer challenged.
Help…I am taking my mother on Carnival Legend out of Tampa on Feb. 27, 2011 and I just heard about the Chefs Table. I would love to surprise my mother w/this it is her 75th birthday the week before.
Our cabin # is 7307 and it would be for myself and my mother Lela Garretson. We would love to join a group, I understand you have to have a certain #.
I take her on cruises every year and this is something we haven’t done. I know it is not much notice
I appreciate any assistance. Thank you and Blessings.
Shawn
John, Amazing generosity and pettiness all in one blog!
Thank you for taking care of our serviceman in Atlanta. Your story touched so many of us. Not so much Mr. “I never tip” Platinum; he didn’t get it. He doesn’t understand taking care of those who take care of us.
Hey, Platinum, when I get on a ship, I introduce myself to my room steward and hand him (it’s always been a “him” so far) a $20, just to say thanks in advance. That’s before his tip. Just shows a different level of class, and we’ve all told you what we think of yours!
Carnival Platinum Cruiser:
I also have high expectations from the room service, wait staff, and other folks that “serve” me on a cruise ship, but I never imagined I’d ever read something so downright rude. Tipping may be optional, and everyone is entitled to their own opinion, so my opinion is that I hope I am never so lucky as to sail on a ship with “royalty” such as yourself that believes that people that work so hard for you are not worthy of your gratuity (or “Reaching into your pocket”, as you put it). Everyone, even “higher society” (That term is used VERY loosely) understands that gratuity is as much a part of cruising as is paying for your drinks or expecting a clean room and towel animals. I wish that I could personally apologize to everyone that has served you on a Carnival cruise that you have ripped off. Those people are not lower than you. If anything, you, Mr. Proud Platinum Cruiser, are lower than them. BUT, that’s just my opinion. Happy sailing! (I’m sure those working for your highness won’t be so happy.)
John, Thank you for the honouring of our nations soldiers. You are a great man, who represents Brits very well. I got to know you through the Splendor blogs and since then, seeing how you treat each and every guest and request like it’s the only one, and then taking SO MUCH time to interact with us on here and through Facebook, I want you and those above you to know that you have earned CCL a lifetime CCL family.
John
Platinum cruiser and the young soldier you were so kind to are two people at either end of the human spectrum. One is all about himself and the other is selfless. God bless our men and women in uniform!!
Regards
Roger T
Hello John,
My family and I were guest on the Nov. 7, 2010 Carnival Splendor Trip. I just wanted to tell you and all of the staff did a wonderful job keeping everything under control . Yes the trip was not what we expected, under the cirumstances, everyone was great.
We just book another trip on the Splendor and we are really looking foward to our vacation. We leave 11/6/11. My husband and I are celebrating our 20 year anniversary on this trip and were wondering if you could send us a little anniversary gift. Room 1042. My 12 year old daughter would like to see if her and Grandma could get something also….if possible Room 1046.
Thanks for all that you do!
Melissa
As far as the tipper goes it reminds me of a story that I saw a while back about people who aren’t tipping at restaurants now that times are financially more difficult for more people. The story was about how these servers then actually end up paying to serve you because they have to pay taxes on the tip that they were expected to receive whether or not they received a tip. The story went on of course to say that if you can’t afford to tip your server a decent tip don’t go out to a place with table service because it is inappropriate to expect someone else to pay for you going out (something to that effect anyhow). Ever since that story we have found ourselves tipping even more to make up for the jerks who decide that they’d rather not tip their server than have to give up going out to eat. I have known plenty of people who make a living off of tips and it really saddens me that in this bad economy people feel entitled to go out and not tip because their wallet is tight, what about those that serve you.
For the record we always give our cabin steward an extra tip for the hard work they do. We also tip our housekeeper when we stay at a hotel. Those people are some of the hardest working people out there, they more than earn the money they make. If money is that tight maybe you need to realize that somethings in life are really luxuries and not necessities. Necessities include food, water and shelter. That is about it, most things we think of as necessities are not really necessities. Sorry that it really gets to me when people don’t tip when it’s appropriate, I guess it is just one of my pet peeves.
Ditto! I have a very wealthy friend that I travel with, and I am the one who always remembers to tip the maid in ANY hotel, provided, of course that he or she has done a thorough job. Just think about being a maid in a hotel, or a cabin steward, and having to clean up BARF or other unmentionables and realize that by the grace of God go the rest of us. Count your blessings that you are able to afford a cruise, and count your tips as a sign that you are privelaged and others are not. In the United States, we have more of an even playing field. Many of these stewards are from countries far away, and even though they have very high IQ’s, they take a job as a steward because that is the only way they can support their families. Can you imagine getting up each day and having to clean hotel rooms? When the maids see your tip, Christine, you put a big smile on their face. Bravo to you!
John; as a former now retired member of the US military I know how the soldier must have felt when you bought his lunch. I had the same thing happen to me upon my first return from Iraq in 2003. It is people like you that make any military member feel that the sacrafices they have to go through are worth it. All I can say is THANK YOU.
We were on the Splendor the cruise prior to the fire and really enjoyed the cruise and you. I am sure that the Splendor will have that new ship smell. To you John, nothing but Fair winds and following seas.
Reading the last part of your blog brought tears to my eyes. My husband is in the US Army and headed overseas shortly after our cruise on the Valor in April. Thank you for recognizing what that young man does for a living. Its things like that and people like you that remind us all that a little niceness can go a LONG way.
Laura Johansson
Hi John, I enjoy your writing and what you did in Atlanta airport was a very nice gesture. However, it would have meant more to me…if I never knew. Know what I mean?
Then how would it had ‘meant more to you”? if he does not mention it? You are contradicting yourself
Not at all Marilole, You see, it’s the people that do such a good deed, and don’t feel the need to tell everyone. They are a special kind. But, some people just can’t help but tell someone what a great thing they did. Got it?
dear john
you are truly one of my heros. my late husband served in the USAF for 26 years and our son died while serving. in their name i thank you.
now about mr.platinum cheapskate. what a lowlife creep. have been on several cruises. all CCL and you truly treat seniors like royalty and the staff and crew deserve any extra tips they get.
see you in oct.
ann from schulenburg
John, what a great thing you did for the military gentlemen. As for tipping the cabin stewards, and anyone else..we were on the Dream last year and Benjamin was our cabin steward, he worked so hard, was always so pleasant, and we could not be happier to tip him as we left, as well as our waiter and his asst. Sure they get a salary, but taking care of others is hard, and sometimes thankless work. What hotel do you stay at that your room is cleaned twice daily, bed turned down, and chocolate on the bed, unless its a $400 a night or more hotel. I cannot believe how unappreciative people are. Also, if anyone want a table for 2, special table, contact your Carnival cruise rep, we have Russell Szerby who books all our cruises at Carnival, gets us a great table for 2, calls me the week before the cruise confirming it. Thanks John for the great blog! So glad the Splendor is under way!
If Mr. Snotty Platinum Cruiser really didn’t care what we or anybody thinks of his non-tipping, then he would not have written his opinion on this blog. I think he does care else he would not have suggested that others do the same. Some people like to make bad comments and see the reaction of others. I’m sure he read the responses. I hope he doesn’t cruise Carnival again so that the employees don’t have to put up with him again.
I agree with you Mike J. Carnival, and all it’s customers, could stand to lose a few cruisers like that jerk
Hi John
You mentioned on your blog from Feb 14/11 that you will post more pics of the Valor drydock, but I don’t see any from the Feb 15/11 posts. I am sailed on the 4/17 post and would love to see some pics.
This will be our first cruise. My partner and I would love it if you’d leave something for us in our cabin – 8301.
Thanks,
Scott
Hi John~
My husband and I recently completed our first ever B2B cruise onbaord the Carnival Dream Jan 22 & Jan 29. We had a very good time. We are both platinum and have also sailed many times with Princess. I bring this up because while we do prefer Princess mostly due to their intenerarys – you are absolutely right – there is no better value than a Carnival cruise.
General comments: Really enjoyed deck 5 and the additional seating on the sides of the ship by the hot tubs (very convenient to the casino as well).
Loved the Serenity adults only area!!!
Cruise Director Butch was professional and very involved – would enjoy sailing with him again.
Hands down our favorite area on the ship – Punchliners Comedy Club we never missed a show.
We took a very relaxed attitude on these sailings and only made it to the dining room 5 times in 14 nights (a first for us) – the food was wonderful. We had Your Time dining and each time requested the same service team. Elpedio, Rennie, and Glen. They far exceeded our expectations – as we were only there a handful of times, yet they knew our names and went out of their way to interact with us. Very impressive.
Our room steward was Augus. I know you hear this a lot, but by the time we were leaving – it really did feel like we were leaving family behind. He and my husband played many practical jokes on each other over the course of the 2 weeks – became fun seeing who could out do who. Needless to say any small requests we had were completed accurately and quickly.
Pasta Bar was fabulous – however, it is very confusing to the majority of guests and the hostess did little to help explain what was going on. It was very popular and as a result closed for 15 minute intervals, but no crowd control – got a bit ugly up there a few times due to the lack of direction.
I personally want to thank you for sending us the champagne and ship on a stick – when I came back in the cabin and saw them it made my night! Thank you for making us feel so special.
As this was our first B2B we were curious as to the turnaround day. On our sailing there were 100 people doing the B2B – at first we thought “oh no, this will take forever”. Well within 15 minutes we had cleared and were back on the ship – amazing.
Yes, the ship is larger than what we prefer, but we knew that when we booked. Would we book her again? Absolutely.
One question -please help us understand the limited time we are in Nassau on the Eastern run? While Nassau isn’t my favorite I could easily enjoy a beach day, but not when you have to be back on the ship by 1:30 PM – we will probably not book this particular itenerary again due to the limited time in Nassau. Again, I knew this when we booked and enjoyed our cruise – just feel it’s a waste of a day. And John – if this is my main concern of our trip…no worries! Thanks again!
WOW…..what a blog!!!
Platinumcruiser……..only one word for you…..KARMA!!!
John…..thank you so much for what you did. Your are one class act! Carnival should be proud to have you as their Senior CD!!
Ha! Karma… you are perfectly concise and precise!
//public//
to the non tipping Carnival Platinum Cruiser Assssked…
I only wish the stu knew in advance the resident of his sparkling stateroom was a cheap Platinum. It’s really to bad you cant retreive his past guest # and post it on the internet for all cruise line service associates to review. Perhaps the cruiser would then stay in his onw paygrade at the motel that leaves the light on for ya, (they dont mention the switch is broke)
LOL!!!
Hi John
First of all, I am happy you had safe travels to the left coast.
Secondly, As a Vietnam era veteran myself and wife of a 21 yrs special forces retiree, let me say a great big THANK YOU for your kindness to one of our country’e finest. That was a great example of what a wonderful and kind person you are.
Third: to Platinum Cruiser: I, too am a platinum cruiser, in fact I am beyond platinum at milestone rewards. I have been on 48 CCL cruises and several other cruise lines too.I have always found the service to be outstanding ands have always tipped more than is suggested. As John said, I bet you still got good service even without your tips. That just goes to show the caliber of people that are employed by CCL. It is sad that they work so hard to take care of you and then you don’t give a rat’s butt about tipping them. Personally, I would be embarrassed to be in a public forum bragging about having such low principles. I will continue to tip them. They work hard for me and I bet you would get even better service if you would be so kind as to leave a dollar or twol Most everyone I know even leaves a tip for the hotel maid. You apparently never worked in the service industry and depended on tips as a part of your income. Try tipping sometime, I am sure it will make you feel better about yourself……oh wait…..that doesn’t seem possible.
Thank you John for allowing me to vent. I have always gotten outstanding service on all CCL cruises I have been on. It seems too that they give a little more, for just a small amount of an extra tip. Give my best to the girls and I hope to cruise with you again soon.
Gloria aka Sue
Hey John,
Well, I never thought I would actually write on one of these blog things. I occasionally check in to escape the normal stresses of day to day life. I read a comment yesterday by a Platinum Carnival Cruiser about not tipping Carnival workers. I felt compelled to write my first blog, tweet, etc (and probably my last)… First, the great thing about our country is the freedom of speech. That being said, I could not disagree more.
Like many of your bloggers, I work non stop running my own business. Before starting my own business, I was a Division 1AA head college football coach. I like to think I know the value of hard work. I always enjoy watching a person take pride in their work. Whether it is a doctor or a trash collector, the effort and pride a person puts into their work is what I believe determines their character. On our last cruise in January, 2011, I was up late (around 1am) and decided to have a quite moment sitting in one of the lounge areas. As I sat alone, I noticed a woman on the ground cleaning the bottom of a food cart. She had no idea that I was sitting there as she worked extremely hard making sure the floor underneath that cart was perfect. This is only one example, of many, of the pride I have observed workers taking on a Carnival cruise ship.
I must admit, it took 20 years for my wife to convince me to take a cruise. We took our first cruise on Carnival in November, 2009. We are scheduled for our 5th cruise this March, as we take our 2 adult children. Yes, I am hooked and we are blessed to have the opportunity to do so (and, of course, my wife was right again). The number one thing that I enjoy is the dedication that every Carnival employee takes in their job. My wife and I would like to send you a check for $100 and ask that you would find one of the 1000′s of hard working employees that work behind the scenes that the many people never have the opportunity to meet. It is just a small token of appreciation. I am sure that the majority of your bloggers share my view.
Please tell me who I should write the check out to and where to send. If possible, please email the information (not sure how these blog things work and want to be sure I get the information). Thank you and all the Carnival workers for everything they do to provide many people with an escape from the stresses that life brings.
Not tipping as a RULE is just plain low-class. Shame on you Mr. Platinum Cruiser. I will continue to tip, tip extra , tip my Maitre d’ , and pass out extra tips for things like room service, wine glasses and rowdy kids.
Love the value still. Thanks John!
About Carnival Platinum Cruiser comments… it is relatively common when staying several days at higher class hotels to tip the housekeeping staff. For example Google “hotel tipping envelopes” or specific to Disney “Mousekeeping Envelopes”…you’ll find lots of websites where you can print envelopes to use for tipping. You’ll also find tipping guides.
Clearly, though, you don’t stay at higher class hotels…do you Carnival Platinum Cruiser ?
I almost forgot. I was on Elation (I think) a few years ago and a US Marine in full dress uniform was brought up on stage, when the Captain and crew were introduced. He brought his wife up on stage and surprised her with an anniversary ring and got down on one knee and proposed to her all over again. As he was doing this, I looked around an noticed, OMG, there were no Carnival photographers present! I happened to be sitting down front and quickly managed to snap a couple of pictures. I later went to the kiosk and printed the picture. Even though they weren’t great quality I managed to capture the right moment. I forget how I did it, but I managed to find out his cabin number and slipped the photo under his door anonymously. I didn’t want his personal thanks, or thanks from anyone else, as his service to our country is thanks enough. In this case, I think it was about 21 cents instead of $21. No matter what you can do extra for a service member, or what it costs, I’m sure they appreciate it.
I can’t believe that there are people that do not tip. That is so inconsiderate, the people that work on Carnival Cruise ship are very hard worker and they should be shown the gratitude for there service. The story about the service man was so nice.
Just got off the Carnival Miracle 15th and was VERY disappointed in Lido deck!! Breakfast and lunch-the waiters took the dirty napkins and just “swished” food off onto the floor! Then left! NO ONE sprayed anything on table to clean it!!! They want people to wash their hands-How about
giving us CLEAN tables?????
I was VERY impressed with the VIP check in!!! Went very smooth!!!
Not impressed with the Miracle! TOO rocky!!! Used to the mega ships(freedom) and all way down and all way back-all we did was rock! I had to scotch tape safe door shut to keep it from banging!!! Hope new ship is better!
It is very ironic that the Platinum cruiser who never tips writes that “as usual what you say is total garbage”. Coming from someone who talks “trash”, this is funny! First of all, I have never had a cabin steward use poor grammar the way this Platinum jerk does. I also resent the fact that he refers to the stewards as “cleaners”. They certainly give service above and beyond, and I’ve never had a mere “cleaner” keep my ice bucket filled, my cabin lighting perfect, nor have I had a mere cleaner unlock my door for me when my daughter accidentally has me locked out while taking a shower. It is the sweet spirit and sense of humor of by past cabin stewards that has made my trips so enjoyable. I have been on cruises by myself, and it was the cabin steward telling me each night how “beautiful” I looked (Ciao Bella!) that kept me from feeling sorry for my solo self. On one cruise, and only one cruise, I had a waiter who never smiled and he was NO fun. Boy do I appreciate it when I get a great waiter who laughs and makes the dinner more than just good food! Tips are an incentive. If I were the Platinum cruiser, I would make darn sure that I never made a repeat trip on the same cruise ship with the same crew. You never know what really might be in his iced tea! Ha! He should stay home and take courses in grammar rather than cruise. If you can’t afford to tip, you can’t afford to cruise. Period.
TO Carnival Platinum Card Holder from another Carnival Platinum Card Holder and to that I mean BIG DEAL: Were you expecting preferential treatment because you are PLATINUM…. Were you inebbriated 24/7 for every cruise you’ve been on? Were you oblivious to the individual attention you have received day and night? I think you need to fully understand the day in life of a cabin steward or any other employee on a cruise ship that has to endure your type of being. I’d like to see you step into their shoes for just one week. You probably wouldnt even make it through that week. You sound like a demanding, rude, self-absorbed, self-centered being who expects everything handed to him in life and feels the world owes you everything. There are givers in life and takers…We all know which one you are! To Every Cabin Steward I have ever had the pleasure of meeting….Thank you again for taking good care of me during my stay….My last cabin steward on the Dream was Jhoe and, more so, is the reason why I will defend these hardworking employees of CCL.
Great blog John, I was so surprised the splendor landed in san francisco. I booked myself last year for a cruise on that boat in April 2011. I went down and took pictures when it was in the dry dock. Then one day I went to work at pier 33 (AC) and low and behold the boat was there…..wow…..that’s my boat…..
It was great to see the boat I was truly astonished… I met a few of the crew members….and wow I guess I’ll see them in April
Glad you had a great time in my beautiful city!
For Kathy Berman:
I have posted a request to the Cruise Critic Message Roll call for the July 17 cruise.
I asked if anybody bought a copy of the Cruise CD for that week.
If I find someone with a copy, I will send the info to John here and help you connect.
I do hope this is successful. CF is a horrible disease and I have known several who have had this. My prayers are with you and your friends family.
JaBee
My husband and I will be cruising on the Splendor with an other couple leaving Sunday. We were originally scheduled for the 16th of January. My Daughter is our travel agent and has been dilengently working on getting all the changes taken care of for this cruise. Changed motel reservations, vacation schedules, and air line tickets. We had no problem with ours but Carnival has been giving a very hard time on getting the ship board credits for air line fare change for our friends. We are really looking forward to this cruise being the first time that we have cruised Carnival but if this does not get resolved and corrected we will look twice before we book with Carnival again. As for my daughter being a travel agent she might be hard pressed to recommending Carnival. It was not our choice to change our original plans.
My husband and I would have loved to have met up with you in San Francisco to show you a good time as there are many great places to see. Wish we knew you were in the city during this time. So happy that the Splendor is fixed! We had a wonderful cruise on it in September for our 30th Anniversary and loved all your shows on board! You are trully a delightful gentleman and I hope that we will get the chance to meet you agian sometime. Any chance you will be on the Carnival Paradice this Spring.?
Laura and Paul
John, thank you so much for what you did for that soldier. The story brought tears to my eyes because it reminded me of my own father, leaving a wife and three daughters over and over again as we were growing up. So thank you. I would imagine while he got a free lunch and a smile, you got so much more out of that experience. You’re good people, John. See you next Sunday on BC4!
I dont tear up often reading – but this one got to me –
You did a great thing –
Enjoy your cruise -
Hey John,
what’s going on in mazatlan?
Are they going to add another destination.
I’m scheduled in April….
let me know.
Thanks,
April
About ” platinum cruisers” tipping policy. Yes, it is cheap, ignorant and selfish. For the record – in case CCL passengers are not aware of this – cabin cleaning services providers as well as restaurant staff official salary paid by CCL is around 50 $ a month ( revenue is most important, like in all corporations, there is a need to build bigger ships), compete with other companies, make more profit, cost and ethics does not matter). Talking about modern days slavery .
They live in a little holes called cabins , sharing them, have some scattered time to eat and sleep. Just so you all know.
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