RCI tweaks the new Diamond member perks

[Dave]

As most of you know, on September 1 RCI changed the perks for diamond members, with their no longer being allowed in the concierge lounges unless they were in a suite. Instead, RCI set up a continental breakfast for them at another location, and had a staff member on hand to act like a concierge.

After 6 weeks, feedback has shown the continental breakfast to be a flop (not surprised). What the diamond members said was they really missed the complimentary specialty coffees and really wanted the coffees with a full breakfast.

So, effective November 1 RCI will drop the continental breakfast. Instead they will cordon off a section of the main dining room for diamond and diamond plus members only. They will be offered the complete breakfast menu plus complimentary specialty coffees. The "concierge lite" will be stationed in this area to assist with reservations, tickets, etc.

Feedback does work. This change is an improvement.

[Sonny V]

I'm pleased to see that RCI is making a strong effort to make their loyal customers happy. I think I'll be one that will use this perk.

Sonny

[queenofcruzin]

Very nice, I am not a coffe drinker, but we would have used this on our last cruise. Iam so glad that RCI is listening to their loyal customers.

[LisaP]

That's nice to hear. Although I'm nowhere near Diamond status, I do agree that loyalty needs to be acknowledged in a meaningful way. It's nice to know it's starting so soon, also.

[jerseygirl74]

Leaving this Sunday, I'll let you know what I think...not a big coffee drinker...but my husband is.

[jerseygirl74]

Oh, does this mean we get to sit in a "special" spot? Cool! (or should I say, "Hot stuff"!)

[drlivingston]

Great... Am I the only person who thinks that RCCL should give a little more. I have only enjoyed one cruise with Diamond status and I am, for one, not very happy with the coffee rewards program. Maybe if they provided a little free Ameretto...

[peter l]

Drlivingston, I'm with you, or a little Sambuca with the coffee would also be nice !

Peterl

[Sonny V]

Sambuca sounds good--what is it? I think they should give a little more also, but I like the thought of keeping the price of the cruise down too. Is there a cruise line that offers more loyalty perks than what RCI offers now? I don't think there is, but I'm not really sure.

Sonny

[Dave]

You've probably seen the Romana Sambuca bottles behind the ship's bars. It is a licorice flavored liqueur.

I don't think the other lines have as good a program as Crown & Anchor, but then I guess it is how one views the perks as far as usability. Princess has good loyalty perks, and Carnival came late to the game although I like their free wash and fold laundry for people with 10 cruises.