What is the best way to get a stateroom upgrade on your cruise?

Answer 1

The worst thing you could do (least chances of success) is to scramble to the Reception Desk moments after boarding the ship to request an upgrade - despite what you've been told. First, some info on how the revenue managers handle cabin inventory: As cruise ships fill up and the cruise sailing nears, the process of handling upgrades is completed. The folks with the higher tiers of cabins are offered the opportunity to upgrade for pennies on the dollar. Then, the recently vacated cabins are offered to the next tier and so on. This process opens up as many of the 'cheepie' cabins as possible, which the value-concious last-minute shoppers gobble up at a discount. So, if you have any hopes for an upgrade you should ensure your travel agent (or the cruise line) is aware of your frequent cruiser number. [If this is your first cruise on the line, you'l be enrolled at the conclusion of the cruise automatically.] Then, 2 weeks prior to sailing, phone in and inquire as to the availability of upgrades. Be the proverbial 'squeeky wheel'. Also, mention any special events such as birthday or anniversary, etc. Lastly, if you've exhausted this without success, proceed to the reception desk and POLITELY REQUEST and upgrade. Demands never work, regardless of your reason. Often, the cruise line has no-shows, and on the 2nd evening of the cruise, these cabins are released. Visit reception again and inquire on the status of your request. You may wish to speak with the Asst. Front Office Manager, who likely has control of cabin inventory at this point. If you're willing to pay $X extra for the week, say $50, mention that. Also, remember the influence of a gratuity! Happy cruising!