Q – (2.25.25) – We just received an unsolicited offer from Regent Seven Seas for a Suite Upgrade Bidding Offer. I wonder, first of all if this is legit as it did not come from my agent. But if it is legit – what gives? When did Regent start marketing like a three-star Vegas Hotel?
The pricing could be good and it seems like a good deal. What do you recommend and does Regent really know anything about this offer?
A – The offer you attached is quite legitimate and we imagine your agent was copied in. We share your opinion that this is a rather odd way to represent a supposed five-star cruise line. One has to imagine that this brilliant marketing ploy originated at one of NCH’s lower tier brands like Norwegian Cruises or Oceania.
This could work out well and there are many booked guests who will tell us that they are pleased with the Bid outcome. But this is what you must consider:
- The chances are good that you would have received a better price than the Bid price on the upgraded category if you had booked it originally when prices were lower. Most five-star cruise lines raise their prices on a 90-120 day cycle.
- If your “Bid” is accepted you will have no option to rescind it. You’re stuck.
- You have no input in terms of where on the ship the suite is located. You must take what is assigned. Be certain you get on well with elevator shafts. What staterooms are left for the bidding process? Not the best-located ones.
- Payment is due immediately once your Bid is accepted.
- Most Bids are not accepted unless they come close to the high-end revenue goal of the cruise line.
- No cruise line wants Bid Suite winners telling the fools who actually paid for their suite what a lousy deal they received.
It all boils down to what someone once said …”well, are you feelin lucky?”
