Are Fuel Surcharges Close To Returning?

Dave · #1 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 02:15 PM

Paul Motter has posted an article about the possibility of fuel surcharges returning. You can read it HERE at our sister website CruiseMates.

macmom111 · #2 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 03:14 PM

I think we all knew it would happen but hoped it wouldnt. But I am not sure it would be a wise decision on carnivals part to charge the fee. The economy seems to be getting worse not better
Nascar cant fill up a car race anymore, hotels rooms are not filling up. the theme parks are hurting. they may add it,but i think they would really hurt themselves until these tough times pass. just my opinion

f-mattox · #3 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 05:21 PM

Frankly I'm a little surprised they've held out this long; crude has been above $80 for some time now and they could have instituted the surcharge at $70. But I agree with you, macmom111, this is not a good time to start it. They have already let it be know that fares are going up, and now this? They may regret it.

Dave · #4 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 05:25 PM

Another aspect of this is that some passengers will direct their anger at the crew and stiff them on tips, as though they are "getting even" with the cruise line for the surcharge.

f-mattox · #5 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 06:34 PM

Oh, that would be so unfair; but you are right--there will be a few.

macmom111 · #6 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 06:57 PM

i agree with people stiffing the crew, if you cant afford to tip they need to stay at home. i will just not spend as much money on the slots. that will cover my fuel charge easily.

Dwayne · #7 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 08:44 PM

I doubt they will institute the fuel surcharges unless it gets at least $10 higher as an on going thing. The fuel contracts they have now are locked in for the near future. If they do have to reimpose surcharges, I bet they do it differently this go 'round.

Dwayne

Sandy · #8 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 09:45 PM

I know folks cruising on Holland America to Alaska in August, who just received a notice from HAL that they're adding the fuel surcharge:

"Recent governmental tax increases in select ports on this cruise have resulted
in an increase of $7.30 USD per person on your booking."

Dwayne · #9 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 10:19 PM

That doesn't sound like a fuel surcharge. More like a tax of some sort.

Dwayne

Cruise Fanatic · #10 (**permalink**) 04-01-2010, 10:29 PM

At least Alaska is talking about lowering the head tax.

Cruise ship and port reviews from professionals and cruisers like you!