Cruisers have been paying close attention to Carnival Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line this April as the two companies have rolled out charges for select room service items.
Traditionally, one of the most widely appreciated perks of taking a cruise has been the availability of room service 24 hours a day, at no extra charge. The biggest and most affordable lines have always offered somewhat abbreviated selections on their room service menus, limiting these stateroom meals to sandwiches, soups, salads, continental breakfasts, and other simple fare. It’s also common to see late-night fees on service between, for example, the hours of midnight and 5:00 am. And, of course, tips are always appreciated by room service staff.
Despite these minor restrictions and policies, countless passengers over the decades have enjoyed the convenience and pampering that comes with room service. It goes without saying, then, that frequent cruisers today are watching the news of Carnival’s and Norwegian’s pilot programs with interest—and maybe a little concern.
Earlier this April, Norwegian added a $7.95 “convenience charge” for room service on its newest ships, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway. Similarly, a handful of Carnival ships are experimenting with adding service charges ranging from $4 to $7 on certain room service menu items, including personal pizzas, sushi, and wings. Many other items from Carnival’s traditional room service menu remain free.
While some cruisers are worried about rising costs on their vacations, others have pointed out that these fees come along with expanded offerings. Previously, for example, hot meals were rare on room service menus, while the new systems appear to offer a number of these kinds of heartier options, albeit at an extra charge. Moreover, the service fees typically don’t apply to suite passengers. In addition, cruise lines are always adding new dining, relaxation, and entertainment options all throughout their ships.
It should also be noted that this is not the first time that cruise companies have experimented with charging for room service. When Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess launched, the company added a $3 room service fee across the board. That program quickly ended, though, when passengers complained.
Cruise lines are generally known for listening to their loyal customers’ input, so this likely isn’t the last we’ll hear on this story. For now, it’s time to wait and see how cruisers respond to the changes.