I remember reading something about this, but could not find it. The question is: if you reach your 20 day threshold for free internet in the middle (or in the first 1/3rd in my case) of a 15 day cruise, will you be allowed to get the SSS perk then, or will you have to wait until the next cruise.

You have to wait until the next cruise. It's like that going from tier to tier in general.

But, some on CC have reported if they "asked nicely" they were granted privileges early.

On a long cruise a few years ago, I was one day shy of being Platinum. Being good friends with the cruise consultant, I mentioned it. Going into the last segment, I was granted Platinum status.When we got back to our suite and read the letter, I did the "Platinum Dance!!" It was greatly appreciated to have the free laundry service.

On our five-night Navigator cruise in April, we had sailed 20 nights before beginning the cruise. Upon boarding I went to Reception and asked about being upgraded to Silver the next day. Reception told me such upgrades were handled by the cruise consultant and that he would call me after the lifeboat drill.

After the drill, the cruise consultant called as promised. He said that we would be upgraded to Silver and that, since we only needed one more day to reach Silver status, the upgrade would take place immediately instead of waiting a day.

So, the moral of the story is that you should ask nicely for an upgrade.

Thank you all so much for the input. I will go to the CC as soon as I get on the ship and see if there may be a bit of flexibility in the matter.

I think they might know your travel agent so if you drop a name or two that could help.