Changes That Would Make Cruise Lines’ Loyal Guests Abandon Them

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What potential changes could your favourite cruise line make that would immediately turn you off them?

Refuse to cruise reasons

Most cruising regulars have a favourite cruise line. It might be because of the food, the entertainment or just the general vibe. Cruise lines all offer a different experience, that resonates with different types of cruise passengers.

But what if a cruise line suddenly changed the way they did things?

I asked my Facebook followers what would be the ONE big change that would make them drop all loyalty to their favourite cruise line. And the responses were pretty interesting!

Here are 23 potential changes a cruise line could make that would turn off their loyal customers. Some named their specific cruise line, while others made more general claims, so I’ve grouped them for you:

Specific cruise line announcements

1. Virgin Voyages to allow children onboard

Virgin Voyages is renowned for being a stylish, modern and fun cruise option – but for adults only. It’s not a cruise line where families are welcomed, unless those families are all 18 or over.

Scarlet Lady

This makes the cruise line a popular choice for those who would rather avoid the louder atmosphere of a family-friendly cruise line. So it’s no surprise that a few people mentioned that Virgin accepting children would be their deal-breaker.

2. Cunard getting rid of its dress code

I’m not sure it’s fair to say that Cunard’s dress code gets rid of people who don’t care about others. But I do understand that the Cunard atmosphere is well-loved.

A spacious dining room on a Cunard cruise ship, featuring elegantly set tables with white tablecloths, flower centerpieces, and large windows offering an ocean view.

Guests look forward to glamorous evenings where black tie and ball gowns are the norm, especially on the famous gala nights. For many, it’s part of the charm and sets Cunard apart from more casual cruise lines.

So, it’s no wonder that scrapping the dress code would be a step too far for some loyal Cunard passengers. The refined, classic experience would lose its distinctive touch, making it just another cruise option rather than the pinnacle of luxury at sea.

3. No more free laundry for Elite guests on Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises, like many other cruise lines, has its own loyalty programme. And one of the biggest perks for Elite-level guests is the complimentary laundry service. This is a practical and much-appreciated benefit, especially on longer voyages where packing light can make all the difference.

It’s one of those small but meaningful touches that makes guests’ loyalty feel valued. Without it, the experience would start to feel less special, and that could be enough for some to jump ship.

4. No more top-tier benefits for Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises

We all know how divisive the conversation around loyalty programmes would be. But there are some cruisers who do feel like their cruises deserve a lot of rewards.

If a cruise line suddenly took those rewards away, I can get how that would make you look elsewhere. That’s the whole point of the programmes – they make you loyal to one cruise line family. Without the perks, you could look at any other cruise line instead.

5. P&O sacking crew and replacing them with cheap labour

This one might seem a bit left-field, but it’s based on a real event where P&O Ferries (a completely different company to P&O Cruises) tried to do exactly this.

There were also rumours in November 2023 that Carnival Group, which owns P&O Cruises, was looking to do similar.

It ended up being unfounded, or at least deterred. But it’s good to see that some cruise guests wouldn’t stand for this treatment of the crew onboard. They would actively look to sail with another cruise line if the crew were mistreated.

6. MSC Cruises closing Ocean Cay

Several cruise lines have their own private destinations – either an island or a resort on a larger island – and MSC has Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

Ocean Cay - A beautiful island in the middle of the ocean with a huge MSC cruise ship docked beside it

It’s a beautiful location with loads of interesting things to see and do, and definitely a highlight of MSC itineraries in the Caribbean.

MSC is a cruise line that already splits opinion, with some people finding it to be a bit cheap (not always in a good way). If the Caribbean itineraries lost a popular destination such as Ocean Cay, it could definitely drive people to consider other cruise lines with their own private islands.

7. Switching to Disney-style cruising

This is less about a cruise line that people are already loyal to, and one that they want to avoid.

Disney Cruise Line very much has its own style. It’s primarily aimed at families, but it has other quirks too. These include rotational dining, where you visit different restaurants each night, with your waiters following you around.

A Disney cruise crew member is serving a family at a beautifully set dining table on the ship. The waiter is placing a bread basket on the table as the family, including a young girl, looks on with smiles. The elegant dining room features other guests enjoying their meals, with polished decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

It’s also one of the most expensive cruise lines outside of ultra-luxury options. So I don’t blame anyone who would stop cruising with their favourite line if it began taking more of a Disney-style approach.

8. No more Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival

Some people will base their cruise plans on food, whether it’s the general quality of the dining or specific venues they know and love.

Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival is one example: a relaxed place to grab a signature Guy Fieri burger (or hot dog) while you unwind on deck.

Guy's Burgers and Fries on Carnival Cruises.

If your favourite dining venue disappeared from a ship, would you be fine or would you have to look at alternative options?

Generic announcements

These aren’t specific to a particular cruise line, but would still make travellers look at other options if they were announced.

9. Smoking is allowed everywhere onboard

For many cruisers, the balance between designated smoking areas and smoke-free zones is important. Allowing smoking everywhere onboard would be a nightmare for those who prefer a cleaner, fresher environment.

Smoking area on a cruise ship

The idea of smoke wafting through restaurants, lounges and balconies would turn a relaxing cruise into an unpleasant experience. For some, it would be enough to abandon their loyalty to even their favourite cruise line.

10. No smoking on the ship

On the flip side, some guests would be just as outraged if smoking were entirely banned.

A 'No Smoking' sign placed on a wet circular table with a mosaic trim, surrounded by metal chairs on the wooden deck of a cruise ship, conveying a clear non-smoking policy in the outdoor seating area.

For smokers, having designated areas to enjoy their cigarettes, cigars or vapes is part of the experience. Removing those altogether would feel restrictive and unwelcome to guests who appreciate the current balance of smoker-friendly zones.

Suggested read: What Smokers Need To Know Before Taking A Cruise For The First Time

11. Formal attire throughout the whole cruise

Although some cruisers love the elegance of formal nights, wearing formal attire all day every day would be exhausting for most.

A cruise is meant to be a relaxing vacation. For many, that means the freedom to choose when to dress up and when to keep it casual.

A strict formal dress code throughout the entire trip would strip away the laid-back vibe, driving some guests to seek out more relaxed options.

12. Vegan food only

Oof. I feel targeted!

Offering vegan options is a great way to cater to a diverse range of diets, but a vegan-only menu would be a hard sell for many cruisers.

vegan starter

A big part of the cruise experience is indulging in the wide variety of food available, whether it’s a steak, fresh seafood or decadent desserts.

Forcing everyone to stick to a plant-based diet would be a deal-breaker for many. It takes away the culinary freedom that so many guests love to enjoy at sea.

I’d love it, though! There are a few all-vegan cruises, but they’re pretty expensive. But if you are plant-based, then be sure to take a look at my list of the best cruise lines for vegans.

Suggested read: Cruise Guests Would Rather Give Up Alcohol Than Meat!

13. No more alcohol onboard

For many cruisers, enjoying a cocktail by the pool or a glass of wine at dinner is a highlight. If a cruise line suddenly decided to go alcohol-free, it would likely be a shock to the system.

soft drinks on a cruise

Sipping a drink while relaxing or mingling with fellow guests is a key part of the experience for many. Without that option, some might look elsewhere for a more lively and carefree atmosphere.

14. No drinks packages

Drinks packages are a popular way for cruisers to enjoy unlimited beverages without a hefty bill at the end of the trip.

Removing that option would feel like a major downgrade for many loyal passengers. Instead of enjoying cocktails, sodas or speciality coffees with ease, they would find themselves constantly calculating costs.

For some, the convenience of the drinks package is essential, and losing it could be enough to make them reconsider their cruise line loyalty.

15. Getting rid of the casino

The onboard casino is a big draw for many cruisers who enjoy a flutter at sea, whether it’s slot machines, poker or roulette. It’s not just about gambling, but also the excitement and social atmosphere that make it a fun part of the trip.

Inside the casino on Holland America Line's Rotterdam, showcasing a range of slot machines with bright screens, elegant chairs, and a sophisticated ambiance with stylish carpeting.

Eliminating the casino would take away one of the key entertainment options for those guests. That could drive them elsewhere, especially since some cruise lines reward serious gamblers with freebies (including free cruises!).

16. No more adults-only spaces

For those who cruise to escape the noise and bustle of everyday life, adults-only spaces like pools, lounges and sun decks offer a peaceful retreat.

Removing those tranquil areas would disrupt the calm that many passengers crave, especially on lines known for providing that serene experience.

Inviting Serenity deck on the Carnival Panorama featuring vibrant blue sun loungers with plush yellow towels, contemporary wicker sofas, and transparent windbreaks, all set for relaxation and offering panoramic views at sea.

Without these kid-free zones, some cruisers would be pushed to explore other lines that still prioritise adult-only escapes.

17. Dormitories instead of cabins

One of the great pleasures of a cruise holiday is the privacy of your own cabin, whether it’s a cosy interior room or a luxurious suite with a balcony.

The idea of dormitory-style accommodation, with shared sleeping spaces, would be an instant turn-off for many.

Losing that personal sanctuary at sea would strip away much of the relaxation and exclusivity, making it feel more like a hostel than a holiday. For most, this change would be the final straw.

18. Compulsory sport each day

Staying active on holiday is a priority for some, but compulsory sport every day would not sit well with most cruisers. A cruise is often seen as a time to relax and unwind, where guests can choose their own activities.

sports court on Royal Caribbean ship

Forcing daily exercise would take away the sense of freedom that many value. Turning a holiday into something that feels more like a fitness retreat would be make some guests abandon ship – almost literally.

19. Ages 18 to 30 only

Cruises appeal to a wide range of ages, from families to retirees. So limiting the age group to those aged between 18 and 30 would alienate a huge portion of loyal guests.

Part of the joy of cruising is the diversity of people you meet, spanning different ages and backgrounds. Imposing such a strict age limit would strip away the community feel that many passengers love. It would certainly send older and younger guests looking for a more welcoming alternative.

Not to mention that 18 to 30s holidays have something of a reputation – and not everyone wants that party vibe on their cruise.

Suggested read: The Best Singles Cruises If You’re Under 30

20. No more buffet

For many cruisers, the buffet is a central part of the experience. They offer a wide variety of food choices and the flexibility to eat whenever it suits.

Fred Olsen buffet

Getting rid of the buffet would be a major disappointment, particularly for those who enjoy the casual dining style and the chance to try new things each day.

The more formal dining options wouldn’t suit everyone. For some passengers, this change would be enough to make them reconsider their loyalty.

21. Mandatory haircuts by trainees onboard

This one was a bit niche, but still…

I know some people like to get their hair done while they’re on a cruise. Being forced to have a free haircut by trainees would be very weird. I’d certainly say no to that cruise line.

22. All ports become tender ports

Tender ports, where passengers have to take small boats to reach the shore, can be a hassle for many cruisers. They often involve longer waiting times and less convenience compared to docking directly at a port.

This image depicts a large cruise ship with a distinctive blue wave design on its hull, sailing through misty waters. In the foreground, a smaller tender boat is seen moving quickly across the water, likely shuttling passengers between the ship and a nearby port. The scene captures the vast size difference between the cruise ship and the tender boat, illustrating the scale and operations involved in managing a cruise journey.

If a cruise line made all its ports tender-only, it would seriously frustrate those who value ease and accessibility when getting on and off the ship. For some loyal guests, this would feel like a downgrade in service, making them reconsider their future bookings.

Some people don’t feel comfortable using tender boats at all, worried they will slip or hurt themselves. Another reason why docking at ports is crucial for many.

23. Clothing optional!

The concept of a ‘clothing optional’ cruise would be a step too far for most traditional cruisers. Cruises are generally seen as family-friendly or elegant escapes, and this change would dramatically shift the atmosphere onboard.

nude couple on a cruise

Many passengers enjoy the balance of casual and formal attire. But a completely clothes-optional policy would make a lot of guests uncomfortable.

Of course, there are plenty of people who would love it too. And there are specialist nude cruises for them.

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Final word

This is all a bit of fun, but it does highlight some of the hard lines that people draw when choosing their cruise.

I know from experience that some people refuse to even try a cruise, or have tried one and decided it’s not for them. I tell them every time: you just haven’t found the right cruise line yet.

Take the time to research your options, and you’ll always find a cruise for you. It may be a relaxed adults-only cruise, one that’s perfect for families, or even one where clothing is optional!

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Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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