RCI is going for the WOW experience. They managed a "WOW, have they really gotten this bad?" After approximately 12 cruises exclusively on RCI, we are actually thinking of abandoning ship. Hopefully, it is just Allure of the Seas. Striving for greater profitability has led to penny pinching. Gone are the chocolates on the pillows. Gone are a pen and paper in the cabin. Gone are extra towels...better grab that towel swan when you head for the shower. Gone is ice in the cabin. Gone is the printed daily news summary you could pick up at Guest Services.
Severely scaled down is the Room Service menu. Better not take advantage of that Wash and Fold special. You won't see those clothes for 48 plus hours. Gratuities, if not pre-payed, are automatically added to your Seapass account. It's no longer a performance based tip. It's a service tax. RCI has turned over their operations to the accountants. Yes, Boys and Girls, the accountants now pilot your cruise experience. Pampering guests is a thing of the past. RCI is now Motel 6 on H20. Motel 6 is not WOW...at least, in a good way.