As most of you who know me, I rarely complain...really! Today is an exception and just felt the need to share my disappointment! While on the World Cruise we signed up for the Grand Circle South America trip. There were no 2006 brochures so we read and made our decision based on the 2005 brochure which was very complete and done beautifully. Well, I've been patiently waiting for the 2006 South America brochure to come out and I finally got a copy of it today. What a joke!! It's more like a flyer giving the day to day itinerary but that is about all! I called RSSC thinking that they must have sent the wrong one my mistake. The man I spoke with assured me, no this is it! (He shared that I wasn't the first phone call he had received thinking they had received the wrong mailing).

To make things worse I've been trying to talk my sister and brother-in-law into coming with us for this 62 day trip since they had cancelled going on the World Cruise with us. I've been telling my sister to sit tight that I had ordered a brochure for her....They know how much we always rave about Radisson (they've never cruised on Radisson before). Now I'm actually too embarrassed to give this to her!

Also, disappointed that Radisson will NOT be including alcohol 24/7 as they did on the World Cruise. No checks to sign added so much to the entire W.C. experience!

If someone who has never cruised Radisson before takes a look at this flyer they're going to find it VERY hard to believe that this is a luxury cruise line!

Sorry....just had to get this off my chest.

Sorry to hear about the brochure and the liquor. As for the latter, maybe the problem is that they don't have a Sambuca supplier in South America?

Have you learned why they are going backwards? Every other year it has been down the west coast and up the east. Here, they are doing the reverse. I would think it would be nice to go down the west and then try to arrange to be in Rio for Carnivale.

You are going to have a wonderful time. This is one trip I would really like to do. I will be interested to hear what you eventually decide with shore excursions including inland trips.

Marcie: That is so disappointing about not including alcohol - for folks spending lots of money for full SA cruise I am surprised they are making you pay and sign chits - funny you mention brochure - I used the old brochures from Radisson to entice our friends into the Mush cruise - brochures were not from Alaska just so well done that you knew you were on luxury line - bad PR I think - not a good way to save money - on printing costs??? Joanna

Marcie,
I know exactly how you feel! We have received a thin 7-page color brochure (11"x17")from Ngaire on the World Cruise, but that is all that Radisson has published on the cruise. Your description of the brochure you received for the Grand Circle SA perfectly describes the only one that Radisson has put out on the World Cruise as well. It is hard to imagine expecting people to spend this quantity of money with this LITTLE information about the product! Even for past RSSC cruisers! I mean really, these cruises sail in 6 1/2 months and the penalties begin for us with the pre-cruise segment in less than 2 months. I for one would like to know exactly what we are committing to before the penalty phase begins, realizing, of course, that RSSC reserves the right to change everything and anything. Our favorite line from the 2006 World Cruise brochure is this one: "It is a testament to the excellence of RSSC's World Cruise product that our 2005 voyage sold out even before the full brochure was released. For 2006, we expect more of the same." I guess if you don't print the brochures until after the final payment due date then that must seem like a reasonable goal!

Like you, Marcie, we are very disappointed. And like you, our family members, who would like to know more about our plans, are also disappointed.

Debbie

Marcie,

If I'm not mistaken, the only long Radisson cruise which includes liquor is the World Cruise - and this was the first year.

I haven't seen the new brochure - so you're ahead of me there!

Peggy

Peggy: I am sure you are correct, however, I think Radisson needs to rethink perks offered to cruisers over 30 days?? And if they are offering a cheap flyer doesn't sound like perks are in the future - Joanna

Marcie, I am so so disappointed to hear this, particularly from YOU.

From the tid bits I've been reading on the boards, it is my impression that RSSC's response to the loss of Song, Diamond, and, soon, PG, has been to focus on beefing up the luxury dimensions on the remaining three ships. THIS is hardly a good start. Either something is really wrong at RSSC or, at least, something is really wrong in the marketing department. One would think they would be certain their very very best clients--like you--would never have reason to send a message like you just did. Patrick

Marcie, sorry for your disappointment regarding open bar on the 2006 SA cruise but on the WC2005, it was mentioned that there would not be open bar on the SA cruise.You will still get 3 exclusive shore events for full cruisers plus 4 shore events that the segment people are getting.As I am sure you know, you will be getting the in suite bar set up. Have a great time.

Yes, Tom and I knew from eating dinner with Mark Conroy on the W.C. that the chances for the open bar on the S.A. trip didn't look good so this didn't come as a surprise (a disappointment, yes but not a surprise). I firmly believe that any cruise over 30 days should include liquor (actually I'm an advocate of all RSSC cruises including liquor 24/7). I witnessed that it really did not change the drinking habits of the majority of people when it is included in the fare.

I can't imagine why RSSC is cutting corners on the brochures. Our 2005 W.C. brochure was fabulous and included excursion options and so much information. Debbie, I'm appalled at the 2006 W.C. brochure you have as a full World Cruiser! Radisson doesn't seem to be considering the first impression prospective RSSC cruisers are getting with these cheap brochures. .... (or any past cruisers!) Debbie, you're so right... when you're paying MANY thousands of dollars to go on a world cruise you deserve better than a measly 6 page brochure. What is with the RSSC Marketing department!! Shame on Radisson!

Marc, can't answer your question as I have no idea why they reversed the itinerary??

As I am sure you know, you will be getting the in suite bar set up. Have a great time.

We all get the in bar set up no???? 7 days - 40 days etc etc - we will cruise in October our 6th in 2 yrs - I am looking at SS....no chits right????

Marcie

My SA brochure arrived yesterday & is sitting on the curb right now with the trash to go out tomorrow. The piece of junk they sent didn't answer a single question I had. My biggest disapointment is that there was no mention of side trips, hotels or pre-cruise excursions.
I don't know what they are thinking, but whatever it is, it is not anyway to sell a cruise.

Just curious as I think I'm low on the totem pole; what I received in mail today was 2006 Cruise Planner and separate brochure for Holiday cruies. Is this what you're referring to or did you all receive this some time ago?

I feed I must chime in to say that the most upsetting thing about this entire thread is that Marcie is the one who felt compelled to start it! (Are you listening Mr. Conroy?).

As they say, you only get one chance to make a first impression.

For those that have NEVER cruised Radisson, what must they think?

For those that HAVE cruised Radisson, what must they think?

This doesn't seem like a positive sign, has anyone heard any rumblings about RSSC's future?

Is it possible they have a new Director of Marketing with the philosophy that "Less is More?"

By the way, we haven't received ANY

I can't imagine why Radisson is so off target with it's marketing. There must be some problems in mangement with their "message". It's hard to see a company and/or product that we love going on such a wayward path. They certainly could benefit from our "focus" group feedback.

I've received only the 2006 Cruise Planner and Holiday cruise brochure that Another Kathy mentioned, so my comment is by necessity limited, but ... in answer to Island Girl's question about a new marketing director, am I not correct that RSSC hired a new marketing director within the past year?

I have been contemplating this thread. I have the South America brochure for 2005. I think the main thing missing for 2006 (from Marcie's description) are the pre and post hotels and excursions. Although this information does appear on website, there is no pricing. How are they planning on distributing it? Just to TAs?

On the other hand, if the cruise is already selling well, why pay thousands of dollars on flashy brochures. I know I have lots of brochures sitting at home that haven't generated a cent of revenue for the company that mailed them to us.

By the way, the South America and Antarctica 2006 brochures are the ONLY 2006 brochures that are ready yet; at least only ones you can order. Let's not be too quick to damn Radisson. While Radisson has full 2006 schedule released, other cruise lines still don't have their schedules for next year complete.

Island Girl said everything so well! A first impression is the most lasting impression. Marketing staff is hired to entice and sell their product. Why RSSC is going in this direction is a real puzzlement, considering the recent changes in their Marketing department.

While I have not seen this collateral, I trust in the comments made by those who have. A cheap presentation equates to a cost-cutting cruiseline operating a cheap cruising experience to those not in the know of just how good the RSSC cruising experience actually is.

Marc, you bring up the point of why spend lots of $$$$ when these cruises are selling so well and also the fact that many brochures just sit on one's coffee table gathering dust. IMO, I do think that regardless of whether or not these cruises are selling well, or if I plan on just letting the brochure I receive just sit in my home, is really not the point. The point is that RSSC is an upscale, high-end operation. To cheapen brochures and advertising reflects upon the company, as a whole. Here we are discussing it. How far does this discussion go? Is it contained to LCT or does it go beyond, when we shy away from sharing such collateral to family and friends?

I've raved about RSSC beginning with our very first cruise. If I gave a family member or friend a less-than presentable brochure, I think it would lead them to wonder about the upscale cruiseline and cruises we've experienced. Presentation says so much, even in the most subtle of ways. It would be an embarrassment to show something less than worthy of RSSC.

I wish I had the collateral to see for myself; however, RSSC has not sent one our way.

I asked for the brochure to be sent, since I booked segment 4. I needed additional information. Marc, the additional items on the website do not come anywhere close to answering the questions I have. I want to go to Manchu Picchu. The web site lists a tour if you are doing the Grand Circle only & now I am wondering if this was from the 2005 trip. To me this ruin is the major reason for going to Peru.
The only new thing I learned from the brochure is that Cousteau will not be on Segment 4. That too is a disappointment. Am rethinking my plans & no, the brochure isn't the only reason, but it certainly didn't make me think - "Wow! This is too great to pass up."
Trust me, this brochure is pathetic.

Maybe, then, the new marketing guy doesn't have all the right answers? I don't see it as a sign of cost cutting though but rather as a mistake. Maybe there is not a difference between the two.

I have always thought that cruise companies have always put a lot of money into brochures. And, more so, TAs were too free with giving them out. The internet is a wonderful source along with our TAs. Maybe the days of full brochures will soon end along with the "cruise docs."

I pulled out the Grand Voyages 2005 brochure over the weekend to review our October cruise. I saw that there was not much there so I put it back. I never thought that it was a sign of the fall of Radisson because it didn't have tons of information. Any information I have ever needed I have been able to find either online, calling Radisoson, my TA, or in the written brochures. Things that may change, such as cost of excursions and hotels, I don't necessarily expect to be in a brochure printed months in advance. I don't mind having to call to get that information.

Sorry for the rambling.

Marc - This isn't directed at you. Just a FYI about another - "being disappointed in RSSC topic."

I called RSSC direct last week, as instructed by my brochure, to find out what RSSC would charge for a particular RSSC hotel's single supplement. I was told to call my TA. I said, "Can't you just tell me the price?" She said, "No, call your TA."

So calling RSSC doesn't always get you the answers you might want.

Marc, it's not often I disagree with you but this is one of those rare occassions. I compared my website print outs from the 2005 world cruise with the excursions listed in the 2005 brochure. There's no comparison. In the 2005 W.C. brochure there are TWENTY overnight type excursions listed with details. Much of this information was not on the internet or was sketchy at best....I would never expect Ngaire to research this or a RSSC operator to read all the information to me. We need to read, research, re-read, re-research and come to a conclusion before committing a thousand dollars+ a person on a land excursion. Also, for the segment guests, there were numerous hotels, with prices, listed in the brochure for pre and post stays.
Crazy as this sounds, I printed out dozens and dozens of pages from the RSSC website in my planning for the W.C. The brochure all by itself was more helpful than the internet. If you're planning land excursions it's so important to check dates so you're not overlapping one excursion with another. Our Radisson comp excursion to the Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai is a perfect example! It really is overwhelming planning for almost 4 months when you're visiting 44 ports. Also, there are elderly passengers who wouldn't have any idea how to operate a computer to access a website.

Back to my orignal point....if you're planning a MAJOR trip such as a Grand Cruise or a World Cruise, you need and certainly DESERVE a brochure with lots of details and you need this long before final payments are due!!! Say what you want but this is clearly a case of Radisson's marketing department dropping the ball!

Imagine you've never cruised on Radisson (like my sister and brother-in-law) or even if you have.....how quickly would you commit $90.000-$100,000 for you and Arlene to go on a world cruise with little information? Or even half of that $$ for a 62 day Grand Voyage around South America??

Radisson is NOT appearing as a luxury cruise line with the so-called "brochures" they're sending out!

OK....I'll jump off my soapbox because I know I'm right on this one....(still love ya!)

I've never thought about this issue since I rarely look at brochures except as eye candy. And I'd have to say that my initial reaction was much like Marc's. But Marcie and Betty bring up some very good points and if I was considering taking these cruises (hah!), I'd certainly want as much information as possible before deciding on whether to take the cruise and planning my days on the cruise. And I also agree that there is an unseen cost here where these brochures were distributed to family and friends which may have encouraged further bookings in the past and now may not. So where does the fault lie? Is it with marketing for putting forth a shoddy product brochure? Or is it with management dictating cost cutting measures including decreasing printing costs for brochures?

Masaki

Marcie, I agree that you need all the information. I agree that Radisson needs to provide it. I will even agree that the brochure is a smart place to put it. I agree with your and Betty's disappointment that this information wasn't inlcuded in the Grand Voyage brochure so it makes planning harder. What I don't agree with is the jump in logic that implies that Radisson is falling apart because they made a mistake in descoping their brochures.

I think this is one of those areas where concise communications with Corporate Headquarters by both pax and TAs is warranted. I don't think this is a sign of the coming armageddon with respect to cruising Radisson.

I called up Radisson in Fort Lauderdale and there is a brand new 2006 brochure called Grand Voyages which only covers the world cruise and the south american cruise. I was told it is a very nice and comprehensive brochure.

I agree with Marc that Radisson is not "falling apart" but it is certainly cost cutting - including the brochures.

We don't know who ordered the cost cuttiing: Radisson managemnt or Carlson.

I am certainly not minimizing the bottom line. Without a good one, there would be no company but if too many of the loyal clients are unhappy, that will have an effect as well.

RSSC does an excellent job and is a very special place to spend a vacation but management does need to think about the consequences of it's actions.

Peggy

I just pulled out the RSSC World Cruise 2002 brochure that I received when we booked the Australia/New Zealand leg. I will never forget my disappointment in that brochure when I received it. It was quite skimpy, with limited information (however, there was pre & post cruise information included). After having received several of the most incredible "books" from Silverseas, I was very surprised at the lack of quality in RSSC's world cruise brochure.

So it really does make an impression on those new to cruising like we were and I'm sure to experienced cruisers new to RSSC.

I can see it now. RSSC is flooded today with brochure requests. Everyone wants to see what they look like. :) :)

The Circumnavigation of South America is a fabulous trip and has never included open bar. The philosophy of Rad is why should non-drinkers subsidize drinkers. There are several great excursions included and many activities that make you feel "special."

No No, I do not mean to imply that I think RSSC is falling apart! ....I do think that RSSC may be making some "cut backs" that are NOT conducive to encouraging future business especially attracting first time cruisers who are looking ONLY at luxury cruise lines.

I specifically requested the S.A. brochure on line, this was not sent to us automatically. I would love to see the comprehensive brochure that docdesdin is referring to. Why wasn't this sent to me or a note attached to the "flyer" I received saying this brochure was forth coming? Maybe the problem lies with not getting brochures printed in a timely manner. After all, these cruises we're discussing are only 6 months away.

BTW, last time I checked my middle name was Radisson! I could be their poster child!

Which brings us to another point.. did anyone else who is a "past guest" recieve the infamous brochure?
I didn't. Won't get into an issue with it since we just did South America cruise ( and it was wonderful

I am finding this thread very interesting. I think RSSC is great, and it is definitely my preferred cruise line, but I also think their marketing department leaves a lot to be desired. I cannot remember when I last received a brochure (or even flyer) from RSSC, let alone an e-mail notifying cruisers of new specials, and we are booked for two upcoming cruises. Last year I certainly received e-mails when many new specials were announced. Sending an e-mail is certainly less expensive than sending brochures. It seems RSSC expects cruisers to be completely proactive and search their Web site frequently to see what's new.

The discussion about the South American "brochure" is only another example of poor marketing. (By the way, Linda of B&K also told me that some very fancy brochure(s?) were in the works from RSSC.) Both Oceania and Silversea have very nice comprehensive brochures (and Oceania includes a nice DVD). I also think RSSC's Web site is not as good as other comparable cruise lines. And the appearance and disappearance of the 2006 schedules when they first came out, and then the 2006 PG schedules, which disappeared for several weeks, are other examples of marketing problems. While I would not want to see fancy brochures result in significant increases in cruise fares, I think a certain standard is expected, especially if the brochures provide a primary source of information needed to plan one's cruise.

That's my two cents.
------------

Eugene

Eugene,

Check the website to make sure you have registered with RSSC to receive email updates. I receive their special offer emails on a regular basis. Maybe you need to re-register.

We have only cruised 2 times with RSSC with a 3rd one coming up soon. We did receive the 2006 brochure and the Holiday brochure a couple of days ago.

Marcie,

I hate to see you so upset with Radisson because you are so pro-Radisson. Hopefully you will receive a much more comprehensive brochure soon. I hope someone from Radisson is reading this thread!

Ginny,

Thanks. I re-registered, though I don't know why I would have stopped receiving them. I also checked off several brochures to see what happens.

----------
Eugene

Sorry you were so disappointed, Marcie. I would have felt exactly the same way.

Which lines do you all suppose RSSC considers their direct competition? The reason I ask is that about six months back, we requested information from Seabourn. Two days later a large Federal Express Package arrived which contained a gorgeous very high-end brochure and a video (or DVD, not sure) showing the ships and the overall "Seabourn Experience". If RSSC is trying to compete with Seabourn, it might be worth them evaluating their marketing practices. Surely going backwards in the quality of their marketing materials doesn't seem like a wise choice.

Kathy

I just received a nice booklet today in the mail. It's 100 pages and is mostly dedicated to the World Cruise and the South America cruise hosted by Cousteau. It's about 100 pages. I didn't get a chance to examine it, but just a quick thumbing through it. It looked nice, but I'm not sure what they are supposed to look like. I didn't request anything; it just arrived today by chance.

John, I'm sure glad you got this. This makes me feel much better! I wonder if everyone will be receiving this? (or at least those of us booked on these long cruises). You would think that the man I spoke with yesterday when I called RSSC regarding receiving a "real" brochure could have mentioned this <img border="0" alt="[c]" title="" src="graemlins/c.gif" />

He clearly said that what I received was it!

I'm back home now. The book is called "Grand Voyages 2006". At the bottom it says "World Cruise & Grand Circle South America".

Inside is detail descriptions of ports and excursions with beautiful pictures. There are diagrams of the ships along with prices.

It's exactly 100 pages.

Thanks John!
I've called RSSC and ordered one. Can't wait!
Debbie

Me too John!! Thank you so much....

The Grand Voyages Brochure is much more than South America. It covers the grand voyages of the Navigator and the Mariner including the 93 day Grand Circle Pacific this September.