Two-Class system in Cruising is back in fashion!

Exclusive communities at sea are back in fashion, having been restricted mainly to Cunard for a few years. These areas are only accessible though to passengers who are prepared to pay for ‘exclusivity’. They benefit from a larger suite, access to private facilities such as Concierge Lounges and private sun-bathing areas. Also on offer to these First Class passengers is exclusive access to Spas on board and even some Spa facilities being free of charge.

Ships featuring this system to date include the MSC Fantasia and Splendida, the NCL Epic, Jade, Gem and Pearl. Obviously, Cunard Line are still offering Queens and Princess Grill as their exclusive areas, and to my knowledge they are still the only cruise line to offer ‘exclusive dining’ in separate dining rooms.

A big disappointment to any Yacht Club passenger on MSC is going to be that for all the other facilities they have access to, they will still dine with the masses, in a dining room at the other end of the ship! Having said that, when I was on Fantasia myself, I discovered that L’Etoile, the French Restaurant on board was inclusive for Yacht Club passengers, and very nice it was too! I’m not sure you would want to dine in there every night though as the menu was quite limited.
Other features of this two-class system planned by cruise lines is tailor made excursions, no doubt at a cost, and reserved seating in show lounges. Watch this space for future updates, or contact me for more details!