Regent added free Business class air in all suite categories to AFRICA after final payment. Because it was after final payment, it apparently doesn't apply to those of us who planned and booked ahead.

Not a great way to treat loyal customers who book early, in my opinion.

What a shame Lauri. We got an email on Tuesday to take a "bump" from CANAL and switch to one of several cruises, one being AFRICA. We considered it but decided to stay with CANAL. They're offering some nice, tempting perks but it does sound like they're penalizing those who book and plan ahead.

Up until Final Payment they are "making good" on any changes or new offers without having to cancel and re-book.

But once final payment is made any new offers are not honored.This policy has no exceptions and is a similar policy to many other cruise lines.

Not a great policy in my opinion. It gives an advantage to those who book late and penalizes those who book early and pay 5 months ahead.

As a retired financial type I can appreciate the policy. While it is always nice to save a bit of money on a cruise we need to understand that the cruise line needs to do what it can to generate revenue and support the bottom line. If they do not they will not exist and we in the long run will be the loser.

It is much like an airline who may offer a deal when you are at the gate and could upgrade for a fee. The seat will go empty but for the last minute deal. Seen this on Cathy Pacific before. Cruise line is no different. There are cabins empty and they want to put people in them.

I think I am correct that many folks who live in So Florida get very good deals at the last minute on many cruises out of Miami and can take advantage due to where they live.

Look forward to the cruise and enjoy.

I can understand it for the megaships. That is similar to the airlines selling upgrades at the gate.

I suppose I thought that Regent was different. Perhaps not now that they are owned by Norwegian.

If we had time and money, the new deal (biz air and pre or post) is real inviting.

If this becomes the norm for Regent, one way around this is IF and only IF the cruise is wide open just before final payment/penalty; cancel. Wait. Either rebook at same price (assuming it is wide open and H or G guarantee are available) or take advantage of any great deals that are offered. This is similar to booking a fully refundable first class airline ticket with hopes to cancel and pick up discounted first class or mileage ticket later.

Ngaire, I know this causes more work and would probably lead to the $200 or more cancellation fee being non-refundable by Regent, but, there has to be some skin in the game for Regent, too, if they are going to take advantage of those that always book far in advance even when it isn't necessary.

Marc

It annoys me that they get to use my money for several months then give a better deal to those who pay later. Not a nice way to treat loyal customers. I'll think twice about booking in advance from now on.

#1. I would think Ngaire and company would have enough pull to get its customers something. It could be an OBC or reduced deposit on a future cruise, but there should be a way to make everyone happy.
-
I am starting to agree with Marc that booking in advance and then cancelling with the intent of re-booking if any great deals come out might be the way to go.