Cruisecrazy,

I'm sorry that your recent experiences on your 34 day Mariner cruise were less than favorable.

We sailed to the Baltics on the Voyager this past August and I can honestly say this was, by far, the most lavish, customer-service oriented cruise we've sailed on to date (we've sailed on RSSC 3 times prior). We never experienced a won't or can't do attitude. We found nothing lacking. In fact, just the opposite. All the crew members we encountered couldn't have been more helpful and congenial. We thought the services on our previous cruises were outstanding. It amazed us that this surpassed our expectations in a very big way.

I must take issue to your comments that "passengers who go are so well off financialy that they wont balk at the errosion of service and the inflation of price." In my experiences working in the travel/tourism industry, I have found that those with the most, financially, are looking to really get the very biggest "bang for their buck." Expectations are far greater for the well-heeled. A lapse in services would not be tolerated and would be addressed immediately. Needless to say, this is does not apply to everyone, but a good percentage have this mindset.

As to having people "hooked." Yes, there are those who are staunch RSSC cruisers. Nothing wrong with that whatsoever. You like a cruiseline and all it has to offer, you stay with that cruiseline, regardless. I don't consider that "hooked." I'd see it as pleased, satisfied, and loyal to RSSC and the product/services offered, despite the increase in pricing, etc. If you are a happy camper, most changes would be a non-issue.

There are many industries looking to max their bucks. This is not exclusive to RSSC. If they offer a superior product, I think they are justified in adjusting prices to reflect what is offered. I certainly don't want to see prices escalate, but, by the same token, I do understand that they are in business to make a profit, as are all businesses.

With so many cruiselines to pick and choose from, there is something for everyone. We've yet to see what the new tier program will offer. Only then can we make an educated decision on where our cruise dollars are spent.

I value your opinion and just wanted to offer my perspective. Thanks!