On May 19 of this year, The Colucci Family found out that their 5-yr-old son Nicolas had a large cancerous tumor growing inside his liver. Nicolas needed a surgery ASAP, where they removed 60% of his liver, his gallbladder, part of his diaphragm, and many of his lymph nodes. He is now undergoing chemo.
Prior to finding out that their son had cancer, The Colucci family had bought a family cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line that was scheduled for June 1, 2014. Of course, due to Nicolas being in Chemo, they could no longer make those dates, so they contacted Norwegian, explained their circumstances and asked that they be able to reschedule. They weren’t looking for a refund. They still very much wanted to go on the trip. In fact, Nicolas has been using the idea of the trip as motivation to get better and even made a calendar where he is counting down 
the days, because he thinks they are going when he finishes his treatment.
But, unfortunately that’s not the truth as of right now. When The Colucci Family spoke to Norwegian, they were told their trip couldn’t be rescheduled. In fact, they wouldn’t even consider it because The Colucci’s hadn’t bought the trip insurance. They didn’t buy it because they couldn’t afford it and of course NEVER thought their son would be diagnosed with cancer just WEEKS before they were supposed to travel. They were disheartened by Norwegian’s response to say the least.
Nicolas’ Mom – Tara – well, she’s a Lil’ Mama. And she told all of us Lil’ Mamas in our Facebook group what was going on. And all of us Lil’ Mamas reached out to Norwegian, and to news stations, and tweeted like mad, and posted comments in hopes that Norwegian would hear us and change their minds. And they HAVE heard us and are not so very happy with us. But we’re cool with that.
Here’s the thing — THIS is the power of social media. It’s a two way conversation with customers and sometimes it’s not all unicorns and rainbows. We aren’t here to debate trip insurance or corporate policies. There have to be better ways for customer service to handle these types of situations going forward.
The Lil’ Mamas are rallying behind Tara to make her feel heard, and hopefully change the way Norwegian responds to these types 
of terrible situations – especially involving children. Because as Mamas – believe us when we say that although we DO understand that rules are rules, we also know that sometimes rules really should be broken.
Especially for a 5-yr-old fighting cancer.
If you would like to say something to Norwegian, The Colucci Family, or to The Lil’ Mamas, please leave a comment below. If you would like to help The Colucci Family, please consider visiting one of these wonderful links:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Norwegian-Cruises-Please-Help-Little-Nicolas/1446834455589126
XO,
The Mamas
Thank you! Norwegian should be ashamed. The way this family was treated, especially on Norwegians Facebook page is appalling to say the least! I hope another cruise line comes through for you Nicholas!!
Dedicated my afternoon to #cruise4nicolas via Facebook and Twitter and damn it’s good to see some justice being served!
I’m so disheartened at the lack of compassion and understanding by NCL, to simply reschedule this little boys dream vacation that the family already paid for isn’t going to hurt them and in fact would boost their PR, especially when this company GIVES AWAY FREE cruises all the time for promotion! What better and positive promotion than to help this family?! I stand behind our lil’ mama’s family and will never book with NCL after this incident. Is there no humanity left?
The complete and utter ridiculousness that is NCL is beyond words to me. I am livid over this situation and I can promise you my family vacation with over 30 guests next year WILL NOT be on the NCL!
I am appalled by NCL and their actions. Just a few months ago they have away cruises to kids with cancer, yet they won’t reschedule for a family who paid and their child has cancer? Disgusted and speechless.
This breaks my heart! How can this company not have compassion for such a sweet lil man? All he wants is to go on the big boat. Come on NCL. Give me a break! If you can offer free trips you can reschedule this family’s vacation.
P.S. I LOVE being a Lil Mama!
great point Jamie.. if its weather related…easy to change trip dates…
Yes. This. Compassion > Policy. Amazing, Celia.
Could not have more simply or concisely said it better!
Dear powers that be at Norwegian cruise lines,
I can’t imagine that a large, well known cruise line like Norweigen wouldn’t grant this beautiful family a chance to take their paid for cruise with their sweet little boy who is fighting cancer. I mean a company can’t be that heartless can it????
Social media is a powerful tool. If you won’t honor their tickets and do the right thing, then consumers will do the right thing next time they are in the market for a trip….they will book with another cruise line! I wouldn’t be surprised if Royal Carribean or Carnival cruise aren’t already putting a special package together for this family. Man up, Norweigen!! Do the right thing here.
I think all Mamas can agree that this is a rule that should be broken!
While this is a perfect example of the greed of corporate America, what an even better example of people rallying around each other in times of need. It isn’t about trip insurance or vacations. It’s about having empathy and taking care of each other. It takes a village…and this little boy and his family have a village behind them.
It is really disheartening that Norwegian is not supportive to this wonderful family. Mamas unite! #Cruise4Nicolas
This is utterly despicable. I just can’t. What the hell is wrong with NCL??? They should be ashamed of themselves!
This also serves a good point.. to book your trips thru a travel agency. First they will tell you time and time again that these companies don’t give two hoops what your reason is for canceling…rescheduling. They will tell you to buy insurance. Second, your travel agency, has connections to those people us passengers don’t have access to. Why do I say all of this? My Mother is a travel agent..for over 30 years..and she pushes insurance every time..and knows these companies will not care. Things have changed so much in the travel industry. It is sad. When, I became ill on my honeymoon- we didn’t take insurance btw..My mother was not happy with the decision.. She did put some calls in..and somehow was able to get some of our money back. Without my travel agent..none of this would have been possible. So people please please please take insurance. Book thru agents… (doesn’t cost a cent more) . Norwegian.. we are so disappointed. Maybe this is the type of story…push you need to start doing business the old fashion way. Ethics…. do we need to look that word up? Tara, im so sorry to hear this about your adorable son. We are praying and sending you and your family strength!
I did use a travel agent 🙁
Have they tried to help you? What do they say?
I’m a travel professional (since 1993). I’m not a big fan of NCL as well so this is not a sign of support for their policies. But no matter which cruise line or tour company you book with they all have similar policies. You would have been in the same position if you booked Princess, Carnival, etc. All of my clients “DO” sign off on a waiver that states they have the option to purchase vacation protection though it isn’t mandatory. If your agent didn’t suggest this and make you sign a form, then they are partially liable for your loss because they didn’t explain your options as well as present the terms and conditions. When you booked you should have been presented with the terms and conditions, which many people don’t bother to read. How many have you have read through all those pages of fine print? A vacation is a big investment if you don’t understand your rights or non-rights then shame on you. On a personal note: My wife and I had to cancel a Royal Caribbean Cruise 2-days before the sailing because she needed emergency surgery. The Royal Caribbean policy was the same. No refund no exception. Please don’t make this a particular cruise line issue because it is not. Depending on the date cancelled there may be a partial refund or a rebooking may be possible but for the current rate meaning of your cruise was $499 and to rebook the same costs $599. You would be responsible for the difference. We only got our money refunded in our case because we had vacation protection insurance. Exceptions can’t be made, because exceptions would have to be done for everyone. Sad to say your case is not unique. There are many people forced to cancel planned vacation plans due to death or illness. I’ve helped many with their paperwork. Social media did make news of your situation, but when you purchased your cruise you agreed to the terms and conditions. There are affordable insurance plans versus the cruise lines. Some include children under 18 free of charge. I don’t mean to chastise, but If you can’t afford the insurance which was probably an extra $100 plus if for a young family of 4 using an independent insurance plan like Allianz http://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/ Travel Guard or another. How can you afford all the extras onboard the ship? I know an ill child does tug at heart strings and I sympathize, but my wife was just as sick and remains disabled to this day. But Royal Caribbean didn’t cut us a break. Even for a Travel Agent Partner.
I hate to say this, but this is a fight you will never win. If you do, it will set a precedence that will change the who travel industry. In time you will become weary of your fight and NCL and the other mass market cruise lines have had a lot more bad press which didn’t seem to hurt them. Your best bet for action is to contact Senator Jay Rockefeller of WV who has been fighting for regulation in the cruise industry. Also Contact CLIA at http://www.cruising.org/, but they will be probably of little help since they promote the cruise industry. I don’t mean anything negative by this post. I’ve just been dealing with the cruise lines for many years and know their thinking. I can only wish you the best of luck in your fight.
Well said Celia! Whilst I understand company policy, it seems as though there are instances where a company should be glad to honour a trip for an ill child. Norwegian just isn’t smart enough to flip the script apparently. It’s sad that they are more concerned with being taken advantage of in the future for “breaking the rules” than building a strong loyal clientele for doing the humanitarian thing.
Way to go ladies! Love being apart of this amazing group of Mamas!
Keep fighting the good fight!
Tara all good, positive thoughts to you guys!
While this is a perfect example of the greed of corporate America, what an even better example of people rallying around each other in times of need. It isn’t about trip insurance or vacations. It’s about having empathy and taking care of each other. It takes a village…and this little boy and his family have a village behind them.
Please NCL… Just. Be. Human.
How about this… Since NCL will not help out this family (which is disgusting to me) how about we reach out to Disney Cruise Lines?
Dear Disney Cruise Lines:
We are reaching out to you with hopes that you can make a little boys dream come true.
5 year old Nicolas has a dream of cruising, on a big ship, when he finishes his chemotherapy treatments. Before he fell ill, his parents booked a cruise with NCL, and due to his unimaginable illness, they were unable to cruise on their scheduled date. NCL is not willing to “bend the rules” for this sick little boy, and his family, and reschedule their trip! So, can you please help make this little boys dreams come true?
Sincerely,
A mom who cares
Agree! I would rather another cruise line get the credit for making things right since it obviously isn’t a priority for NCL.
Disney’s policy is almost the same as NCL’s. Trust me they are just a corporate. You should read Disney Cruise Line’ terms and conditions.
Tara – you are an inspiration to us all. We stand strong with you and support you. This conversation is not about a vacation for Tara’s family (although, I REALLY want Nicholas to get a chance to sail on his big ship!!). It’s about corporate citizenship and doing the right and compassionate thing for a family that is coping with pediatric cancer.
NCL, take notice – we have a mama army here that is 2,500 strong and fiercely loyal. We believe in each other and support each other through thick and thin. Whether or not you decide to let the Colucci’s reschedule, you have lost our respect on this one and plenty of our business. We also have personal and professional networks – and those tens of thousands will stand with us too. I am hopeful that you’ll reconsider your stance for my little friend Nicholas. He deserves to have his big ship to look forward to.
What always makes me laugh is who does NCLthink typically organises family holidays? Mothers do. Let us down when we need your assistance and it doesn’t take much effort on our parts to share our substandard experiences with mothers everywhere. Before you know it, NCL’s reputation as a apparently family friendly liner is no longer.
NCL, consider it “PR compassion” if you need to give commonsense another label. Proof of “exceptionally special circumstances” are easily provided.
Dear Norwegian Cruise Lines,
Albeit, you do not have to make this revision, it would be the right and noble thing to do. Your website specifies, “It’s your vacation and you should have the freedom to enjoy it on your terms.” Is this something you stand by 100% or only when it is convenient?
I think the title of the this post should be changed to “Norwegian Cruise Lines gives sick children free cruises, unless they are paying customers” – huh? They work directly with Make a Wish foundation, why wouldn’t they have gone down this route together?: http://www.ncl.com/about/corporate-giving
NCL. This is some terrrrrible customer service.
This did the trick for me. NCL will never get my business again.
As a manager in the travel industry, I understand the demands and constraints of a large business in an industry that has high costs and can’t recover losses easily. But no time in my career have I heard of the inability to show compassion for an excruciating circumstance. Especially to a guest.
Shame on NCL. LMs unite!
I can’t imagine what this poor family has been through! Cancer is a very scary and draining disease. It’s hard enough for Tara to have to deal with her son having cancer, she has to stay strong for his recovery! It breaks my heart that they had to miss a vacation that I’m sure cost a lot of money!!! I really hope Norwedigian considers rescheduling a cruise for this beautiful family once their son is cancer free!! They will need a beautiful vacation after they kick cancers butt! We are here for you Tara!!!
Thanks for spreading the word about this issue! I think it’s very telling when a company (in this case, NCL) is so unforgiving and inflexible. Act like humans, not a robotic corporation! Not only has this family had to endure their child’s illness, but the rudeness of people who think they know everything and who clearly have no human conscience. Disgusting. I hope another cruise company hears about this and gives the Coluccis a vacation to remember forever!
Because when a family is dealing with their little one going through chemo, this is what they want to deal with. Shame on you NCL! Lil mamas strong!
Shame on you NCL!!!! I’ll make sure when the fire depts I work with go to book their cruises it WILL NOT be with NCL! Your actions are disgusting!! Corporate greed at it’s best! They paid for the trip they aren’t asking for a free one, they just want to be able to go when Nicolas is better. This is a little boy with cancer for goodness sake!
This is the power of social media, if NCL doesn’t like it tough crap! They will have lots of people boycotting them because of this, and a bunch of outraged lil mamas who have lots of powder #warriornicolas #cruisefornicolas
I know this opinion will not be well received, but please try to hear me out. First and foremost I believe that NCL should change the date. However, the public outcry will not help your cause. They are standing by their policy. If they publicly go against their policy, they are going to be inundated with similar requests and they know it. Sadly, there are too many in the world who abuse these policies and that’s why they have them and have to stick to them.
You are so correct. Such a sad thing. But you know. ..My son lost his dad right before his first cruise. I didn’t ask for special treatment. We were smart enough to purchase insurance…I utilized it and rescheduled the cruise. It was bittersweet but you make the best of it. I’m sorry they didn’t buy insurance. If they couldn’t afford it perhaps they couldn’t afford to cruise at all. NCL is standing by policy rightfully and I respect that. Since someone pointed out that they support Make A Wish Foundation, perhaps the family should go through proper channels and apply through them. Even in the face of tragedy, doing things the right way is still the best way.
I agree people abuse things and ruin it for the rest of us but just ask for some proof. If the family doesn’t want to provide proof then make a stance to adhere to the policy. Then they tried to help. And the public outcry wouldn’t have happened if they just made things right. Then they wouldn’t need to worry about others hearing cause it would be quiet. This is sad forget the should of bought insurance cause we have all had things in life where we should have and sometimes we loose but sometimes we have a caring people/companies help. Fact is they didn’t Maybe they don’t have help out the family but we don’t have to stay quiet about it either. Never have I bought insurance on anything that wasn’t a tangible asset. Shouldn’t have to. They are selling a service and product there should be guarantees for all not for all that wish to pay more. You have all been suckered into it all because they stopped helping people and started saying don’t let this happen to you buy insurance!
A large corporation such as NCL had the power to move mountains for a family like this, for a boy like Nicolas. The lack of empathy they showed her (and from what he told lil mamas – the short, coldness in their response to her) should be disheartening. However the power of these mamas behind her shows that the bad guy will not wil. A heart, and empathy, and love should always win.
Praying for you Tera and your little man!! Praying for a quick recovery. The lilmamas can move mountains even if it one stone at a time!
To have a complete lack of human decency is just sad and pathetic!! NCL should be ashamed. Do the right thing!
#cruise4nicholas
Where’s the kindness? Where’s the compassion? As mamas, we teach our children to treat people with these basic values in mind. It’s appalling that they seem to be nonexistent at NCL. I will never book a cruise with them.
Dear NCL – it’s not hard to make exceptions. In fact, it’s quite easy — most especially when faced with a situation that involves a very sick child and a very simple request. Ultimately, you made the wrong choice. And when that happens, in today’s social media climate, you pay for it. You should be ashamed of your “strict cancellation policy” — but in time, a little shame is the least of your worris.
Good luck little man. Mama power is with you.
This a truly tragic story. The family has endured so much already, and gave Norwegian Cruise Lines an opportunity to show how compassionate a business can be. They decided to show just how uncaring they really are. The result saddens and angers me at the same time.
Absolutely absurd! Norwegian should be ashamed of themselves at the least!!!!
It would have been so much easier to do the right thing here. It’s still not too late to do that. I hope NCL sees that this was a big, fat mistake and fixes it. Fast. And I hope this can be another lesson to larger companies that it costs less time, money and energy to make the compassionate choice. My heart is with sweet Nicolas and his beautiful family.
Devil’s Advocate, I understand where you are coming from. They could have quietly dealt with this, but they had and still have an out. They work directly with Make A Wish to provide cruises to the families of seriously ill children. Why wouldn’t they have gone down this route to make it happen, especially for a paying customer? It makes no sense.
Why should they “deal quietly” with this particular situation? That is neither fair nor equitable to the thousands of other passengers who sail on their ships, many of whom have had their own personal tragedies shortly before or during their cruise.
I understand that the child has cancer. I feel very terrible about that. When the comments first started popping up all over Facebook, I couldn’t sleep that night for thinking about Nicolas.
My point is, where is the line in the sand? We can all agree that this situation is horrible. What if someone has a parent/child/sibling/etc. who is hospitalized (albeit not a “life threatening” situation)? If I were in that situation, I would certainly cancel my cruise to be there for my family. Should they refund me too? or allow me to reschedule? What about people who have broken bones? need physical therapy? have a life upheaval and are therefore facing depression? I could go on and on and on and on……..
Other people’s family members (not just children) mean just as much to them as Nicolas means to his family. Sadly this situation is not really all that unique and try telling the person who has an adult family member in one of the situations that I described above that “it doesn’t matter because they are not a child” or “their situation is not as bad as what this other family went through”. If you make an exception for this family, then you have to make it for all families. That is what is FAIR!
If Norwegian were to bend for this family, then I can assure you two things would most certainly happen.
1) No one would ever purchase travel insurance again. When they had an issue, they would expect the same considerations. Booked cabins would end up going unused on the trip and Norwegian would start to lose money. This would raise the cost of everyone’s cruise. This in turn would cause fewer to book as prices would be to expensive. The cycle repeats. See where I am going with this?
2) People who have filed claims in the past that got denied would all get together and file one major class action lawsuit against this cruise line. The case is simple. You “bent the rules” once, you should have bent them for us too. Same end result as my previous point.
Finally, I would like to leave you with the thought that NCL is NOT unique in their stance. I have seen posts talking about Carnival, RCL, and Disney being “better choices”. If the family does choose to book with them at some point down the road, I hope they get the insurance. I can assure you that should ANY situation arise, these companies would handle the issue in exactly the same manner. If they choose to help you now, it is only because of the attention that this story is getting and they are USING your sick child as leverage to raise their business and as a parent, I would hope you would not appreciate such a selfish exploitation of your child and his condition.
Your question is, “where is the line in the sand?” I think the point that is being made is, “this is definitely the line.” You feel that this situation is “not all that unique.” Childhood cancer represents less than 1% of all cancers. That alone shows that it is, in fact, unique. Of that tiny percentage, how many of those children were scheduled for NCL’s cruises? To show compassion in this situation and ones like it would do nothing to harm the company’s bottom line. On the contrary, the goodwill would be positive for their public image. Furthermore, life isn’t simply about legalities or policies. Just because something is legal or policy-supported doesn’t make it right. You can have your policies in place but if you aren’t willing to demonstrate compassion in these extremely “unique” situations, you may be legally right but you are morally wrong and will have to deal with the court of public opinion if a light is shined on your decision which, in this case, it has been.
I understand that you all are very close to this situation and therefore OF COURSE think this situation “is definitely the line”. So yes, perhaps if NCL only changed their policy for a family with a small child with cancer, then the effect would be negligible.
HOWEVER, no one is commenting on the following issues:
1) What happens if the problem is not cancer?
2) What if the person in trouble is not a child?
I have never had a family member with cancer, but I have been through any number of issues with health and other things with members of my family. If NCL were to grant this exception and my family were in some sort of upheaval which caused a canceled cruise and someone told me that I couldn’t get an exception because my situation was “not as bad as this one”, I can assure you my next call would be to a lawyer.
You need to understand that whatever people go through in their own families is going to be closer to their heart than anything else. Every family has had their own share of tragedies and I’m guessing it is not that uncommon for them to occur in the proximity of a vacation which is what I meant when I said the situation was “not unique” (I was not referring to childhood cancer on which I certainly cannot claim to know the stats). And when you tell them their situation is “not as bad” as what another family is going through/went through it will not end well.
Who gets to make up the sliding scale of illnesses/personal calamities? Who gets to decide what goes on the “exception” side of the line and what stays on the “no exception” side of the line? Good luck to that person….seriously GOOD LUCK. You will almost surely find someone who has been left on the “no exception” side and will then undertake the same course of action as this family. If NCL caves to all, guess what? No more line, everyone’s situation is an exception.
Cate while you write some valid points that yes a standard does need to be held at some point every now and then an exception is made! Look at the case of the 10year old girl that has Cystic Fibrosis and needed a double lung transplant to live.. her parents FOUGHT endlessly to get the court to make an exception to the adult donor regulations for her! I clearly states a child MUST be 12 years of age to receive organs, and she nearly died! The argument made was that yes the standard would now jeopardize supplies of organ balance from children to adults but the rule was changed it was BENT they made and EXCEPTION! So yes I see what you are saying and I agree it is an extremely valid point how do you measure but who are we to judge… WE AREN’T! But we can activate our First Amendment on beliefs we feel passionate about and hope that the outcome is in our favor. In the end its not if our hands but we are a strong, large group of Mamas and even if NCL doesn’t do the right thing (im sure they wont) we will continue to voice our opinion and rally around the Colucci Family and Nicolas!
Cate- Yes us MAMA’S are extremely close a bond no one will ever come between.
Yes the issues above have been addressed not only in our dear friends situation but in I do believe three other situations before her. A gentleman who has lost a brother had to go to his funeral around that time of take off he asked to give his spot to a relative and they refused, instead sold it so they NCL got double the money for the same room. There is more you need to read into. We are talking more about the lack of compassion that NCL has and the greed they have that’s disgusting. Our friend does not want her money back she simply want’s what HER son want’s to go on a “big ship” not much to ask for. NCL could show a little compassion and a lot less greed.
Cate – I think that there are a number of situations that would deserve the compassion of a cruise line/airline/hotel resort, etc, certainly not only situations that affect people in my life. And your assertion that if NCL “caves to all” there will be “no more line” is exponentially overstating the frequency with which these situations arise at the EXACT time one is scheduled for their vacations.
You stated that “if I couldn’t get an exception because my situation was ‘not as bad as this one…’ my next call would be to a lawyer,” you would likely find that your time would be wasted as LEGALLY, a company isn’t bound to make an exception to a policy agreed upon by both parties. What is being argued here is that MORALLY, exceptions should absolutely be made in these situations. I understand that there is a policy in place because, unfortunately, I do believe that people would abuse the system and cancel last minute for any stupid reason they deem worthy. And no, I do not think exceptions should be made for fickle reasons, regardless of how “close to the situation” I may be.
I think situations like this that should be escalated to a manager to make a judgement call on how to handle the situation (if it had been me, personally, I would have offered to either rebook OR refund). It is a (thankfully) rare breed of human being who wouldn’t agree that a scenario like this deserves compassion and an EXCEPTION. No one would spend $4000 on a trip and cancel last minute without a very important reason and just hope that someone found their cause worthy. Given this reality, people would not start abusing the system just because an exception was made for a child who, against all odds, came down with cancer. No reasonable person would think that they can get away with anything because a company chose to do the right and human thing in response to a devastating situation. Fortunately, the number of people who face these devastating situations is extremely small in comparison to the number of people who book and are able to go on their previously booked vacations. These are rare cases that could easily be worked into the corporate budget without affecting the company bottom line in any appreciable way. You could call it the “Do the Right Thing Expense Account…” Genius.
-No one is exploiting a child-human compassion lacks in some apparently. Why because it wouldn’t be fair to others? Life hasn’t been fair to this family, how about being happy if a family who is enduring more than I could even imagine got their cruise rescheduled? Be annoyed fine that you were not granted the same flexibility with a missed cruise for a family illness or broken bone but to say that Massive LAWSUIT would happened NOPE wouldn’t occur they reserve the right at their Sole discretion to extended or not extended a change. They have plenty of lawyers that have pulled together their legal mumbles to ensure they are never held liable. So if someone has a broken bone they can fly to the boat the next day and miss one day of a trip, this kid is losing his internal organs and a trip!
This is from NCL’s Guest Ticket Contract:
Guest Waives Right to Class Action Relief: THIS CONTRACT PROVIDES FOR THE EXCLUSIVE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES THROUGH INDIVIDUAL LEGAL ACTION ON GUEST’S OWN BEHALF INSTEAD OF THROUGH ANY CLASS ACTION. EVEN IF THE APPLICABLE LAW PROVIDES 03/2014
OTHERWISE, GUEST AGREES THAT ANY ARBITRATION OR LAWSUIT AGAINST CARRIER WHATSOEVER SHALL BE LITIGATED BY GUEST INDIVIDUALLY AND NOT AS A MEMBER OF ANY CLASS OR AS PART OF A CLASS ACTION, AND GUEST EXPRESSLY AGREES TO WAIVE ANY LAW ENTITLING GUEST TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION. IF GUEST’S CLAIM IS SUBJECT TO ARBITRATION UNDER SECTION 10(b) ABOVE, THE ARBITRATOR SHALL HAVE NO AUTHORITY TO ARBITRATE CLAIMS ON A CLASS ACTION BASIS. GUEST AGREES THAT THIS SECTION SHALL NOT BE SEVERABLE UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES FROM THE ARBITRATION CLAUSE SET FORTH IN SECTION 10(b) ABOVE, AND IF FOR ANY REASON THIS CLASS ACTION WAIVER IS UNENFORCEABLE AS TO ANY PARTICULAR CLAIM, THEN AND ONLY THEN SUCH CLAIM SHALL NOT BE SUBJECT TO ARBITRATION.
Cancellations: In the event of strikes, lockouts, civil disturbances, weather or any other reason beyond its control, or in the interests of the safety and/or comfort of Purchaser or others, Norwegian Cruise Line may, at its sole discretion, cancel any services provided hereunder and may, but is not obligated to, offer substitute hotels or services and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to Purchaser by reason of such cancellation or substitution.
And AGE DOES MATTER, I hope you have no children because I would rather have myself or another adult go through this then ANY KID ANY DAY. I would hope, god forbid that if my child went through something like this that people would care enough to help. The family did not make the “Stink” a group of mothers did, not our kid, not our money, not our problem, but we care enough to try and help this boy get his trip.
As the mother of a child who battled cancer really? Broken bone and battling cancer in the same arguement. You lost all credibility right there. And depression and therapy don’t have the sudden onset this mother experienced. Fortunately it’s not as if this situation is the norm and shouldn’t be given some special condideration.
I am absolutely DISGUSTED by NCL!!! Having compassion goes a long way! Prepare to have your name and reputation COMPLETELY tarnished!! They chose to say no to the WRONG mama!!!!
This is awful! This family is going through enough and just want something to look forward to and something to motivate their little boy to keep fighting this awful disease. They just want to reschedule. NCL should have a heart!
I’m sure that the PR people at Norwegian are now considering the error of their ways. As far as I’m concerned, ” that ship has sailed” (pun intended). I feel another cruise line will gladly step in and be this young boy’s champion.
I hope NCL comes to their senses, this is ridiculous!!! As if this family doesn’t have enough to worry about. We’re here for you, Tara, keep being strong!
I understand big companies need to have policies and cannot accommodate everyone but exceptions can Always be made and should be made in a case like this. In not accommodating this family, Norwegian Cruise lines is basically stealing their money. I’m sure they didn’t bargain for the bad press they’re going to get and business they’ll lose thanks to the Mamas campaign but I just hope they will hear the outcry and decide to do the right thing! All my best to Nicolas and family!
NCL, seriously? As if the cruise industry needs more bad press? Enjoy the shitstorm this is creating. Give them the cruise back, and while you’re at it, upgrade their accommodations and give them an inboard credit. They deserve it!
My heart goes out to this family and Nicholas, May he recover fully and quickly. Their concerns and efforts should be on fighting cancer not Norwegian cruise lines. Making an exception is a very slippery slope, one that large corporations shy away from. I hate to say it, but that is what insurance is for. May the family and Nicholas recover and next time purchase the insurance…this is the exact reason it exists.
I really hope NCL comes to their senses! So proud to be a Lil Mama and to be able to witness what real love and compassion looks like for others!
Remind me to never book a cruise with Norwegian is this is the kind of customer service I can expect! I get that policies and such have to be made but in the customer service business, so do exceptions! Where would you be without any of your customers Norwegian?!! Not the giant cruise line that you are. Show people you care and have some compassion and reevaluate the way you handle situations like these. Help this family out who has already gone through so much!! Go mamas!!
How can this company not have compassion for this little boy! Norwegian should be ashamed! Norwegian should be glad to honor a trip for an ill child, so sad! I will not go with this corporation when my family goes on a cruise line!!!!
Over the past two days I have put my heart into finding justice for this family, the moment I read Tara’s post I was infuriated and felt I needed to find a way to do something. So I did what I do best, what is usually seen as a character flaw in me, I opened my big loud mouth, and practiced my relentless, stubborn ways and made it my mission to get the word out, her story called all the Lil’Mamas to action! When I spoke to her In the phone today, she told me that when she posted what happened to them she was only looking to vent, and never expected the outpouring of sisterhood & support they were getting from mamas near & far. We started a social media shitstorm, sharing her story, starting a Facebook page for Nicolas, contacting the media, calling Norwegian, starting a fund to help with medical expenses, emailing every big wig we knew to help take up the fight. This common fight for what is right & outpouring of support and energy for someone none of us knew personally, has restored my faith in humanity & proved to me that though we all may be different, parent differently, disagree or have different opinions, we are all still connected by one thing, we are all mothers and will protect our children with a fierceness. When we read Tara’s story, it awoke that fierceness inside us and we could not sit Idyl and do nothing. So we banned together & took action, just as we would hope our sisters would do for us! What was done to this family makes me sick! I have found a new friend in Tara & will continue to fight on her behalf until this story has a happy ending! As I told Celia & Tara when we spoke today, never underestimate a mama with a cell phone & access to the internet. For once my big mouth served me well & I got the media to hear our quest, I have faith that all of our efforts will produce a favorable outcome! I also believe that the power of intention is a strong, miracle producing force & Nicolas will pull through this, and beat cancer! So fellow Lil’Mamas continue to rally & support this wonderful woman & family, until that day comes! I love you all, thank you for proving to me that there is still good in the world! Keep fighting the good fight!
Light & Love Sisters!
And Tara, call on us if you all need anything! And please keep us all posted on both Nicolas’s progress & the battle with Norwegian, we are all invested in this now & genuinly feel a connection to you & your family’s struggle. XOXO
It is disgusting what NCL has done. I will never cruise with them and will be sure to spread the word. I understand policies- but they are meant to be broken in certain circumstances. Love and prayers to your family in this difficult time.
Im so disgusted with NCL and the way they handle themselves with customer service I myself will never travel with them! After hearing the amount of disappointed through my fellow lil mama I will make sure the word gets out! This little boy deserves more then this cruise that he was already so excited about! Shame on u NCL!!!
This is so ridiculous!! I hope it gets resolved soon. This family does not need additional frustration and stress!
Wow, talk about terrible PR. You’d think that a company with such a good relationship with Make A Wish would have better protocols in place for situations involving pediatric cancer. Really hope Norwegian does the right thing here.
This story breaks my heart! I truly hope Norwegian Crusies had a change of conscence! If not I’m sure disney or royal caribean or any of the many other commercial companies with be finding a lot more customers coming their way!
This isn’t about travel insurance. This is about empathy. The world operates in shades of gray, not black and white.
Thank you! Im so sick of hearing people talk about travel insurance!! I would like to see these people tell that to a 5 yr little boy going through a fight for his life, who’s asking when he can go on the big boat. Have a heart.
Exactly – There are rules,contracts and every legal document under the sun in all industries – sometimes it just comes down to doing what is right….
I realize that there are rules, but this situation demands compassion. The company is run by people, those people should have hearts, this warrants some flexibility. I’m not interest in ever booking with NCL.
WAY TO GO MAMAS! Tara we are all thinking of you and Nicholas! I’ll never travel with NCL ever ever! They should be ashamed, and will definitely feel the wrath of the mamas!
The last thing Tara needs to be doing is fighting over a cruise when her child is ill! NCL, sounds like your customer service needs a lot of help.
Travel insurance has become a magnificent money-maker that primarily benefits corporations. Its existence gives airlines and cruise ship companies the “right” to deny reimbursement or even a change of travel plans to people in dire circumstances, like this family, while in essence forcing those who travel to buy insurance that relatively few will ever need. Norwegian Cruises feels entirely free to show no compassion, because of the existence of travel insurance — though it’s perfectly understandable that this young family didn’t consider buying it, as they had no reason to imagine they would cancel their trip. Good for Li’l Mamas for taking Norwegian Cruises on. Certainly this story gives the lie, the Supreme Court notwithstanding, to the argument that corporations are people!!
I love this group for this very reason! When you need someone to back you up and maybe you don’t have the best support…. You can always count on the Lil’ Mamas to help you! They will make it happen and haven’t let one of us down yet!
Tara and family we got this and you know we are here for you! Let’s show NCL how families do things!
Doesn’t Norweigan know that companies that thrive are the ones with impeccable customer service!!!! Yes they should have insurance policies and rules to protect themselves but certain situations need to be handled differently. I hope they learn their lesson here and I hope Nicholas gets to go on his trip! Our thoughts are with you Tara xo fellow lil mama
Hate you have to go through this but so happy you have Lil mamas to have your back!
Despicable. How could NCL possibly be backing up this poor decision? What terrible PR and deplorable ethics. I can’t imagine what other corners they’re cutting to save a dime instead of doing the right thing.
This is very well said! How can Norwegian have the heart to say no. They are not asking for a refund, just a postponement. Thes should be ashamed of themselves. I will do everything in my power to tell social media how horrible they treated Nicolas & his family during this hardship. Thank you for helping Tara & family. They are great people. Hopefully a little media attention will make NC change their cold hearts.
Im praying for this incredible little boy and his beautiful family. Its. Such a shame. That norwegian cruise line is being difficult. Yes there are always stipulations, but when a person especially a child comes down with a horrible illness such as cancer, there should be an exception. I cant even imagine this little boy being told he cant go on this trip due to financial issues. Norwegian cruise lines need to get their act together and make the exception. I have never gone on a cruise and i most certainly will not be going through norwegian.
Just shared this with Good Morning America and World News. Hopefully they will read it and help put some way!!!
Maybe more people can write to them and other networks to get something resolved! It takes a village and hopefully this will work!
Praying for your little boy!
I am Tara’s cousin! My little nephew Nicolas was so excited to go on the big boat! I’m so disappointed in ncl, they give away free cruises all the time, they cancel at their own free will other peoples cruises. They are not asking for their money back, they just want another chance to bring my amazing strong nephew on the “big boat”.
I will NEVER book any cruise with this company ever again.
It’s really sad that a company of this size can not accommodate my cousin and her family.
I understand insurance is important but when you can not afford it because it costs just almost much as your trip when your paying for a family of 4, under these circumstances your family should not be penalized for something that was out of there control.
I really hope and pray that Nicolas gets to go on “the big boat” and I know he will have an amazing time!
I love you nico! Love aunt coco
Their* I hate that I did that lol
I am beyond disgusted with this company and their response to this situation. Rules are meant to be broken- especially at a time like this. This is not about business- this is about human compassion and heart. Thinking if this sweet family and hope that Nicolas’ dream comes true.
I can not believe that such and unsympathetic and cruel company can still exist and function knowing what they have done to Tara’s family. I’m positive that every single one of the executives at Norwegian knows of a sick child or a sick adult who is battling a life threatening illness or disease. I can not fathom how they can sleep at night. I am praying for the health of Tara’s sweet little boy. I have two little boys and my heart breaks for her.
Hey NCL! Shame on you!!! Here’s an idea; how about you let this family not only reschedule their trip, but pick up the tab for them as well. It’s the very least you could do!!! And FYI, you just lost a ton of customers!
So proud to be a lil mama! How wonderful to see all these women come together to help a family facing such an awful situation. Shame on NCL for their lack of compassion for the Coluccis. Prayers that their son has a speedy recovery and that they can take that trip when he is better!
NCL I think you should be ashamed of yourselves for denying a sick little five year old sick child his dream. You feel as though you can’t “bend the rules” however we notice that ask the big names and big money people you surely would I’m sure of it. Due to bad weather refunds and reschedule would be given with no problems. But a child who has paid for a trip and due to an illness and a treatment that can prolong his life that was scheduled on the day of his trip with you guys is getting treated terribly which in my opinion is short of Jew in the Holocoust excuse the terrible comparison but our my family or my friends or ANY of us Lil MAMAS and we roll 3,000 DEEP and our family’s will EVER use your cruise line, believe us our mouths will NOT be shut we will expose you for the hassles people you are!!
So disgusted with this cruise line. I will never book with them and will be sure to pass this along until the situation is rectified. A child with cancer can be an exception to the rule. Sharing this story far and wide!
This is a tough stance to take NCL. Do you really want to alienate all the parents who pay for these cruises? I just took your cruise May 10th to the Bahamas out of NY….well myself & 5 others. That was a total of 2 rooms booked plus too much money to count spent on drinks & fine dining on your ship. I was actually just looking to book the Boston to Bermuda cruise for the same 6 travelers, again multiple rooms but I will have to look at other options. God forbid I were to spend my hard earned money on your cruise only to find out if a personal tragedy were to come out of the blue I would get no consideration from your company. Things like cancer aren’t planned & to think of this child looking towards your cruise for strength to get through his treatment is truly heartbreaking & the fact that you are denying him this hope is unbearable. So NCL, it was nice knowing ya, onto Royal Caribbean!
This is disgraceful. Norwegian should be ashamed for being so heartless. The cost of this family’s trip is nothing to NCL, and the family isn’t even asking for a refund. After all of this, the boy still just wants to go on his special trip. My thoughts and prayers are with Tara and her family.
This is despicable! NCL should grow a heart and realize that their decision was misguided. This is a family in need of great compassion, not punishment for the unfair circumstances they are in!
NLC, The family is asking to change the dates not cancel the trip. You’re still getting your money. And if you don’t want to change their dates and they can’t go, then you shouldn’t be allowed to resell the room (as you’ve done in the past).
– Lil Mamas
It’s disgusting and just plain cruel the NCL would do this! They should be ashamed of themselves. What kind of cold hearted monsters are they?! My family travels this cruise line every year along with their friends and GUESS WHAT THEY WONT BE ANYMORE
Sadly. the world in which we all live has lost all compassion. We all know the correct thing to do would be to reschedule, especialy considering the circumstances. The best way to get to a Corporate Giant is to affect their bottom line. If more concerned people would not book on NCL, they may “rethink” their corporate policy. Except for the Grace of God that could be any number of us at anytime, please keep the dialog going and a donation would not be remiss.
Norwegian should be ashamed of your selfs no compassion in this world anymore. This is so sad.
So proud to be a part if this group. I really hope NCL has a change of heart for the Colucci Family and then I really hope that they understand what it means to human and have true compassion. It makes me sad to know that human beings hide behind the Corporations and feel no human emotion because it is written in some BS hand booklet they received when they were hired. I just hope they make an exception for this Family.
I am so sorry, Tara. You need to go cuddle your boy and know in your heart that the Lil mamas have such a fierce voice you will not have to worry about the crappiness of this cruise line. You are a strong and amazing woman and your son gets his strength from YOU!!!
Sending best wishes to Nicolas and the Colucci family and proud of Lil Mamas for taking action! As for Norwegian Cruise Lines…. All I can say is that I really hope they take this opportunity to do the right thing.
Thank you, Celia! Let’s restore compassion in this world for this family and beyond!
Guess who is NOT going to be considered when I start shopping for our family cruise ( the whole extended family) of 20+ ppl….NCL…lost my business forever….rules are rules and rules are also meant to be broken, and being cold hearted does not get you any points….disgusting!!! Keep fighting Tara!!!!
To be honest there is not enough information really to judge, who did she talk to at NCL? She has no names no real anything except NCL said no due to insurance. It doesn’t make total sense at all and would like to know the real story not the gut punch one. I have a hard time believing that she talked to someone that had any real power that couldn’t move her cruise date with a penalty at worst case. How far was she out from her cruise and when was final payment compared to when she tried to move it? Who did she speak to within NCL? Who did she talk to who could advocate for her?
I hope that this shows you how much travel insurance can help your family, instead of having to beg and plead for mercy and exceptions to policy had she had cruise insurance this would or been taken care of. To me if you can afford a cruise you can afford to save a few more dollars to make sure you do not lose everything. Funny every one keeps home owners insurance car insurance and many other types yet then we skimp on major purchases then blame the company for being unsympathetic.
@anthony….
Maybe some of us cannot afford the insurance, insurance in a luxury that some of us cannot afford to have.
THAT IS ALL…
Hi Anthony, I understand you work for NCL? The person within your company handling this family’s cruise is Jacklyn Shreidmeyer.
I do not work for NCL. But I did ask my BDM if she could do anything about it. Tragic story :-/.
Anthony, assuming you are not an NCL employee looking to deflect this rightful barrage of criticism, I have to say that your comments strike me as close minded and from someone who clearly doesn’t understand empathy nor doing what is right. I am an attorney and I understand the business/ legal/ insurance arguments that one can make. Excuse my French but what the fuck is the point. Insurance, even if purchased may not have covered this horrific situation. But that, and your rant, is besides the point. This is not about insurance or business policy or even corporate ethos, rather this is about a family who with good reason should have NCL honor their request, irregardless of whether they had insurance or not. Yes, there is a reason for insurance. Insurance on houses and cars like you mention often does not cover things that they seem caused by an “act of god”, an intervening cause not within control. NCL can take the stance that this is such an extreme case, that insurance should not matter, and grant the family their request.
I understand that all you hear is one side of the story, but as an attorney, a man, a soon to be father, and a person with decency that their “side” of the story does not matter.
Godspeed to this child and his family.
Adam R
The issue here is not about buying insurance or not. The family wants to go and I’m sure the family didn’t choose to had cancer. A big company like NCL that does a ton of marketing, PR can afford to reschedule a cruise date. To make an example of this situation to buy insurance is petty.
The family are not begging or pleading. They are informing the public of their experience with NCL and apparently, many people are interested… Probably because they are appalled by how NCL handled the situation. Speaking of the rep not having any power within the company. It doesn’t matter. He or she represents the company and how he handles himself will affect the reputation. This applies to any major retail company you work for.
Homeowner and car insurance are not optional. Travel insurance is. Funny.
I can’t believe after so much devastation this family has already faced, NCL has the audacity to hit this family with another heartache. Shame on you, NCL! I’m so disappointed.
Well Jason… I can say from experience that no one ever thinks their child will get terminally I’ll, but it happens. When your child is sick, the medical bills pile up so fast you can hardly breathe! To have a family escape is great. When the budget is tight, things need to go by the wayside. Just food for thought, put youself in their shoes! What would you do. I know my sons bills were well over 4.5 million bucks! So any penny I can save is great. Think before you judge!
I ment Anthony! It’s been a long day!
Travel insurance is not ironclad, Anthony. Like other insurance policies, travel insurance is interpreted by the carrier as to what is covered and what is not. It’s very easy for you to be a Monday morning quarterback in this situation. And, truly, before there was travel insurance there were human beings that worked at big corporations like NCL that would make decisions for other human beings a/k/a their customers. I think it’s very telling that you troll the Internet to harsh on mothers who have sick children.
I cannot believe a huge company like NCL has such a teeny tiny little heart. I know for a fact they give away cruises all the time. Next year my hubby and I will be going on our first cruise and you can bet it won’t be on NCL.
As a frequent cruiser who has vacationed with NCL in tbe past, they will never have my business again. Thier lack of compassion for this family is disheartening. I have confidence that sweet Nicolas will not only kick cancer’s ass but will celebrate on the big boat, hopefully with a cruise line that has some compassion for its customers. Lil mamas unite! #cruise4nicolas
If commenting on a blog required a disclosure, mine would say: I’m a fellow Lil Mama. I care about other moms and families and a community that fosters support in order to see our village succeed.
Anthony, your disclosure would (likely) say: I’m a travel agent. I care about my own bottom line and continuing to sell NCL and travel insurance for my own financial gain.
Preach!!! Yes mama
You do not know me at all to say that is short sided and cruel, I voiced my opinion. I have had to use insurance very time on a cruise due to small accidents the cruise lines do not care about you.
I could careless about the pennies I get for selling it and I give it back to the clients I refuse to make money off insurance, since I am not an insurance salesman, but a travel agent. I did not go into business to work people over or to lead people down a bad path. Yet I see these stories very single day from every single company they are all the same in the end.
My Aunt is a travel agent with many years of experience. …and she always takes insurance…and educates each client what insurance will and will not cover. Its their choice in the end. To me…who has gotten I’ll out of the country…it’s worth taking.. not sure where “insurance” turned into a bad thing.. it’s the way life is now…I just took trip insurance out for our trip next summer.
Anthony
You said you are in the travel industry and have only seen 6 serious cases of needing to reschedule a cruise. You are talking like 6 is a big number. In reality major cruiselines run about 30 ships at a time. On average 2,000 passengers per boat per week. So doing a little math that is hosting 3,120,000 people per year. Many cruiselines have been around for 30 years so again doing math in the last 30 years 93,600,000 people have gone sailing with Norwegian. Out of that HUGE number 6 families needed help because of cancer or something to that extreme, and you write 6 down like its going to break the bank. Come on now, look at how dumb that actually sounds. The bad publicity from those 6 families will be way more negative for the complaint that simply making a case by case exception for the 6 families like Tara’s family, NOT making exceptions for everyone and everyone that had a conflict. It’s case by case. Oh and yes I am a business director and yes I actually worked on a cruiseship before to as a dancer in my 20’s. so I see both sides. I witnessed my cruise give away a free cruise to every passenger (over 2,000) because the air conditioner broke for 24 hours while we were sailing in 2001. So the cruise industry is not hurting. Tara did not ask for a refund just a reschedule and after doing the math above not accommodating that is pure greed! God bless Tara, Nicolas, and family for a speedy recovery and hope for a great cruise vacation with any other line than NCL.
First of all, NCL disgusts me. I hate that we often live in a world where “policy” takes precedence over doing what is right. I hope that this blog and our efforts can make a difference; make a change. As one comment above mentions, travel insurance is just another way to leak money out of people. And Anthony Elmer, I think it’s small minded of you to say that maybe this family couldn’t afford travel insurance and, thus, should not have purchased the cruise. As the wife of an attorney, who is risk adverse by profession, and (not that you need to know, but makes a very comfortable income) we NEVER purchase travel insurance – not because we can’t afford it, but since we have never been in a situation where we would have needed it. I assume Tara’s family made a similar choice when choosing not to buy travel insurance. She never needed it in the past and used prior experience to guide her decision. And I think it’s quite off to compare home owner’s insurance to cruise insurance….right? Come on now.
I don’t understand how you can afford to cruise, but can’t afford insurance. How were they going to pay for things like gratuities, soda/drinks, and shore excursions?? Insurance cost really is minimal (especially since it is free for kids when you purchase from an outside company, not from the cruise line). I am sorry for the boy’s illness, but I really can’t expect NCL to break the rules because they wouldn’t pay a couple hundred for insurance.
How do you know if they didn’t already pay for excursions when they purchased their food. How do you know that they didn’t already purchase drink packages when they purchased the cruise? And how do you know they paid for the cruise 100% themselves or of a family member helped? Or how do you know if they have been saving for 5 years to take their family on a vacation. You don’t. But judging from your comments I can tell you what I know. You’re judgmental and small minded.
“Break the rules”?? First of all, these are “rules” that NCL created so there’s no sweat off their back to “break” them. And secondly, we are not on the school playground here. We are talking about real people with real emotions going through some REALLY DIFFICULT real life issues that clearly people with closed minds cannot comprehend! They aren’t asking for anything that is unreasonable and were only looking for compassion. Apparently compassion doesn’t exist at NCL. Maybe when they realize they have lost the business and respect of thousands they’ll see the error in their set of “rules”.
Honestly, it would have been better for NCL to either quietly let the Coluccis change their vacation dates (thus avoiding negative publicity) or advertise the crap out of their goodwill by loudly publicly letting them change the dates (while getting to pay themselves on the back and watching the goodwill pay off with more customers.) Now it’s kind of a nightmare for them. Do they really want to be known as the cruise company that denied a kid with cancer his vacation?
To me, whether they had insurance or not is irrelevant. What matters is that NCL can sleep at night knowing what they took from this family fighting cancer. Truly heartless. All I can think of is how they had an opportunity to create a positive image with good PR and they blew it big time. What a shame.
This is not about getting her money back, a free cruise or having make a wish (or supporters of) do anything for her or her son. This is about a sweet little boy, who was diagnosed with cancer a few weeks before his vacation and who had to have emergency surgery. This is about a major cruise line severly lacking compassion. Put yourself in his mothers shoes for a moment. finding out your child has cancer and having to deal with everything that comes along with it, having to cancel this trip, that your child was so excited about and pretty much being told ‘we dont give two flying fucks about your kid or your vacation. You’re shit out of luck and should have bought insurance. Have a good day.’ How would you feel? Think about it. Our children are our world and any one that messes with that, will feel the wrath. No child should ever be completely disrespected like that. Rules are not set in stone and exceptions can be made. NCL you should be ashamed. It’s no longer about rescheduling a cruise. This is now about a mother fighting for her son, who CANNOT fight for himself. NCL, I’m sure she couldn’t care less about how you may try to make this right. The world will now know how utterly disgusting and uncompassionate your company is.
I couldn’t have said it better myself! Literally gave me chills ❤ thank you
No need to thank me, Tara. I’m speaking my mind and standing up for what’s right! #LilMamasUnite!!!
I would contact someone from the Disney cruise line. Perhaps they would be willing to help this family out on one of their cruises and show Norwegian what a real cruise line is all about!
This situation is disgusting and wrong. There are definitely people at NCL who could help remedy this sad state of affairs. The family has been through enough grief and a little bit of compassion and kindness could go a long way. I hope they redeem themselves and come to their senses. If they were in this family’s shoes, how would they want to be treated? I will never give them business if this is not the case. COME ON NCL, DO THE RIGHT THING!
Anthony do u happen to sell travelers insurance? Cause ur take on it is a tad extreme. Especially to compare it to home owners and car insurance which by the way we are made to get not optional. And its not like the family a as asking for money back. Just a simple change of date NCL seems to be more worried about the ! $$ then people actually enjoying there self on there cruis ship and just the overall concept of being a decent human. So again NCL u disgust me.
No problem is you start doing it for one the the next one and the next you have to allow for all. Makes it frustrating when my client gets denied yet another gets approved when everyone has equal ability to prepare themselves for emergencies. People want to blame the company when she has admitted she refused the insurance. No one expects to get sick no one expects cancer but it happens a lot this is at least the 6th time I have seen some one get cancer before a cruise or family member dies it happens it sucks but that is why we take care of our selves for the worst. We don’t absolve responsibility then get mad when a company sticks to it’s guns which it has over and over to date I have yet to see anyone successful getting the CEO to back down.
I think it sucks they won’t do it but it’s reality, instead of bullying NCL which is what this is I think energy should be funneled to getting the child better and fundraising for his care. I bet if they did a fundraising for a new cruise I bet they could easily do it. I just think this is the wrong way attacking a company for their known policies is not the way.
Btw my 1st cruise I hurt myself bad enough to have a several thousand dollar bill. I know it’s not to the level but I didn’t protect myself and it was my own fault not the cuisines. I had the option and I declined it to save money I wasn’t smart about it. Now I will not travel in country or out without protecting myself.
I feel like folks are missing the point focusing on insurance. NCL gives free cruises to kids between the ages of 2.5-18 as part of Make A Wish with life threatening illnesses. He qualifies. Why wouldn’t this come up as a option from customer service in speaking with the family?
Why do these people keep saying should have bought insurance. Wtf why can’t they just guarantee there shit. I hate that. Just work it into everyone’s cost. And no just because you can afford a cruise doesn’t mean you can afford to pay more for insurance. And the whole well people but house and car insurance blah blah blah. Those are assets you idiot a trip is not an asset and shouldn’t need to be insured. Another way for big company’s to make money and the few times people actually use it is nothing compared to the people who just hand over money with nothing in return. This world is crazy. Love the support Lil Mamas. Xoxox
With everyone who has paid NCL’s “insurance”, and not used it, they must have a pot FULL of money. That money could and should be used for families such as this. COME ON! NCL you are wrong. Just wrong.
If for nothing else, it’s pretty wild to witness the huge village of support circling this mom and her family during such a difficult time. There is no question this little fighter will get his cruise, regardless of which company takes him on board.
Meg
@MomMeetMom
This is absurd, I mean who plans for their kids to get sick weeks before vacation. NCL should be ashamed, I mean this is a little boy. As for Anona, some of us don’t have even that little extra. When we take our kids on a memorable vacation it takes all we have so we cut out the extras such as the insurance. And trips have to be paid for in advance so did you think of the fact that they would have had more time after it was paid for to save up for extras for the trip. Don’t criticize unless you have been there. This is about a little boy being denied a vacation that he deserves after fighting and beating cancer.
I am losing faith in humanity if there is no compassion or empathy for a family whose son got diagnosed with cancer two weeks before their trip and they couldn’t go because he had to undergo chemo after having surgery to remove the cancer.
All of us Lil’ Mama’s are standing up for what is right and standing by supporting Tara, Nicholas and their family. They deserve a wonderful family vacation and Nicholas deserves a cancer free life going forward.
Think how you would feel if you were in their position.
I don’t usually comment on anything unless given express permission from Cecelia but I cannot imagine having to deal with a situation such as this. People just don’t care about people anymore. Who plans for this? This was a “special”, unique situation and they couldn’t consider this? Norwegian is not where it’s at. To deny this childhis vacation after all he’s endured? That’s about as cool as Florida in July.
If Norwegian has any sense at all they will make this better ASAP! Just because you are a corporation and you have policy’s to enforce doesn’t mean you have the right to be crooked swindlers who hide behind your so-called policy’s that were only put in place to make more money for yourselves. So find the hearts that you once had, dust them off and use them-it’s not that hard.
This story just boils down to compassion. Compassion for this family & all they are fighting. And compassion for all who may be going through similar hardships. I am sure there was some sort of agreement that could have been reach between both parties that would have satisfied both the family & the cruise line. Instead NCL took a hard line on their policy and led with that. Good customer service always wins. No one ever expects this to happen and especially to their child. Something more could have been done for him. I hope that this gets resolved quickly & the family can focus their effort on kicking cancer’s butt instead of this nonsense.
Dear NCL,
It isn’t as if this child has a cold or the flu, he needed urgent, immediate care to begin fighting the invasion going on in his tiny little body. I feel certain that his parents would much rather have been able to cruise with your company as originally intended. Unfortunately, events beyond their control prevented this.They aren’t asking for a refund, all they want is to change the date. Even airlines let you do that without insurance! With all of the negative publicity that the cruising industry as a whole has received in the past few years, it seems like your company should have jumped on the chance to have some positive press rather than even more bad press. Especially since this situation could have been avoided altogether!
Please be assured that all future cruising that my family, friends and anyone else I speak to do will be on a line completely unaffiliated with NCL.
Truly disappointed,
Bethany Mihaly
CT
I am re-posting this blog on facebook and asking all my friends to do the same. NCL, do you know how expensive it is to have this kind of negative publicity? Perhaps you should consider a different response.
NCL knows as well as anyone in business that there are times when circumstances warrant bending the rules. This is one of those times. It’s not like they asked for a refund. They asked to reschedule. To not allow an exception in this situation, particularly given what this family is dealing with, just speaks volumes to me — about NCL’s heartless corporate greed. Also makes it pretty obvious they participate with The Make A Wish Foundation for the publicity and not because they care about the sick kids.
We’re with you, Tara! Thanks for this post, Celia. Rock on, Mamas!
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What kind of response is this Adam, this isn’t a billboard for your PR Campaign! But thank you for bringing to our attention a list of other events/ programs and teams that we should be contacting in protest of you… We appreciate the help in research! Also obviously you and Norwegian Cruise don’t seem to care about the Nicholas the little boy laying in a bed fighting cancer who would just like the opportunity cruise on your ship once he has won his fight. Im sure some of your “BIG” celebrity friends from these elite sponsors would though… Maybe we should see what Seth Meyers or Neil Patrick Harris or Carmelo Anthony would they feel about their “official cruise line” treating a sick child like unclaimed baggage?!
The family isn’t asking for anything unreasonable they are asking for the flexibility to reschedule their trip when their son is healthy! Not a reimbursement … Give this boy the joy he deserve for a fight so courageously fought!!
Adam you posted this to be helpful so my apologies to you!
I have been blessed to meet such incredible mamas and now that one us needs our help, I’m not surprised by the response! Tara and Nicolas more than deserve their trip and Norwegian should be ashamed to deny such a story. Amen to the masses!!!
I am sorry to hear another child has cancer. But a cruise is the last thing this child should be on for a few years. It takes a long time for immunity to build up after Chemo drugs. And looks like a 2 year battle with chemo. They are in for a long haul. I am sure Norwegian will make it right down the road or Another childrens charity will make the childs wish come true. Positive energy is what is needed. And it is not Norwegians fault the child has cancer. Pick your battles and I feel the energy should be on getting the child better.
This breaks my heart. The minute I heard it I told my husband about it and together we talked about how sad this is for the family and how horrible it is of the cruise line. I really hope that NCL can come to their senses… open up your hearts people… not everything is about money. They should get an amazing suite!!!
NCL is not lossing anything in this, just book Tara’s family on a new date it’s that simple.
NCL is a service business. If they cannot make an allowance for one of the most basic of human services — compassion, then what’s the point. Get into a different business.
My family is looking to book a cruise. It will not be with NCL. Shameful! They should have made this right from the beginning!
Awful! Shame on that cruise line. About 11 years ago I was 1 day away from a Mexican cruise on carnival when I lost a immediate family member in a auto accident. I had no insurance but they still, without question refunded my money and made a customer for life.
Oh NCL you should be totally and utterly ashamed. How sad that a company of this magnitude has taken such ridiculous approach to an already difficult situation. This family has already paid for their trip and you can’t honor it based on trip insurance. Are you kidding me? I will never book a cruise with NCL.
My thoughts and prayers go out to this little boy and his family! NCL should be ashamed for giving this family a hard time to reschedule the cruise. Even if they tried to make it right, if I were them I wouldn’t want to go on their cruise. I have never gone on a NCL. I have gone on Royal or Princess. I love Royal. I am pretty sure Royal would have rescheduled. Good luck to this little boy and family.
This story got me so frustrated and angry. I can’t imagine what our fellow mama is going through and on top of it, dealing with this right now is just unfair. This family needs a break during this difficult time. NCL couldn’t break the rules?! They should have seen this as a good marketing opportunity, and be “the understanding company that made a family’s dream comes true regardless of their policies”. Now they are just seen as this disgusting company.
I wouldn’t go on that cruise if they change their mind- Tara you didn’t deserve to deal with this right now. You deserve to have some quality time with your beautiful family, and we will do our best to help you. Sending lots of positive energy, and love.
You would think that the NCL would do the right thing…despite policy…praying for you and your son that he is healthy and he gets his dream cruise!!!
absolutely disgusted by the actions of the ncl!!! clearly they dont have humans working there/ or those with a heart/ brain. Tara is not looking for money back but a reschedule!!! bunch of idiots…
Shame on you NCL. Yet another reason I won’t ever cruise with you again!
I hope this family this family gets their dream cruise!! It’s so easy to reschedule! Shameful NCL is not taking the easy way out! I will never recommend them to anyone!! My thoughts are for the family for the healing of their son!
I sure wish I would have known this prior to paying for my group if 8 cruising. Shame on NCL for not showing compassion. I would give them a credit in a minute for another cruise in this case. No one is ever prepared for those words to be uttered to them about their baby. May this baby heal fast and enjoy life.
Norwegian cruise line should be ashamed. Have a heart, NCL, not everything is always about money.
This is such a heartbreaking story. My family and I have been on two of their cruises. I will never ever trust a company that lacks compassion. I will pray for this little angels recovery and speedy help and his family’s strength through these times. Norwegian cruise lines will be boycott.
My heart hurts over this. I truly hope they do the right thing. This lil man deserves the world. He is a fighter! I am so proud to be a part of a group of women that fight for what’s right! Love you all…now let’s get this boy his cruise!!!
Planning a cruise in the future. I won’t be making reservations with Norwegian Cruise Line! Shameful way to do business!
Shame on Norweigen – ever heard of customer service, human compassion? I get the no refund policy but if they can prove their assertion it just makes good customer relations to refund their money. Being hard nosed in a situation like this, at a time when cruise lines have been getting a reputation for being disasters, doesn’t make sense. Doesn’t matter that it is or isn’t Norweigen having the problems. As for me, after reading this, Norweigen is the last cruise line I will sign up for. If you cant trust them to be compassionate in a situation like this, how can you trust them to be compassionate when the boat craps out in the middle of the ocean?
That is horrible! They should be ashamed! Keep fighting, don’t give up. I know someone that had to cancel for whatever reason, can’t remember, and they finally got a refund. I would also recommend contacting the Today Show in New York. Tell them what’s happening. A lot of issues get turned around once it goes world wide because the companies hate bad press. Good luck and I’m praying for your little Nicolas!!!
Go right to the CEO of Norwegian. Google their corporate headquarters a and ask for Kevin sheehan’s office. Tell your story to his assistant or better yet, ask for a call with him. I highly doubt he would argue this very small amount of money which has already been paid for when there net income recently was reported to be over 173 million
In a time where cruise ship lines have been getting a lot of bad press you would think that they would want to help this family and generate some good press at the same time. I think its shameful the way they are handling this situation. Cruise ship lines give out complimentary cruises all the time so why is this such a big deal for them?
Planning a trip soon, and will not book NCL. I really hope someone compassionate hears this and gives this boy his dream trip. Prayers for the family! Don’t mess with Lil Mamas!
It doesn’t matter what a “policy” says on a piece of paper that was written by a rich leader!! It’s about being a human being and bending the rules when necessary. There will never be a time that myself or my family will use this cruise line. This is disgusting!
I say at this point who cares about NCL, they obviously have no souls. Send this to Carnival or Royal Caribbean maybe they will be able to do something for Tara and her family. NCL just disgusts me.
I am disgusted by the lack of compassion here. My family of 5 is in the middle of planning an Alaskan cruise and we have completely crossed off NCL as an option. So much in life is tragic and uncontrollable. This is definitely a controllable situation and they have the power to make dreams come true. I really hope they find it in their hearts to do the compassionate thing.
This Is so sad! No compassion. I will never take a NCL cruise.
My heart goes out to Nicolas and his whole family. What a shame to even think about dealing with this on top of everything else. It definitely seems like NCL could have easily set them up through Make A Wish, if they must stick to their corporate policies.
We all know this isn’t about the cruise. It is about feeling sucker punched when you’re already down. Please do the right thing NCL.
May the compassion, positive energy and support from lilmamas get you through this difficult time, Tara! xx
That is just horrible!! Norwegian should break the rules in this unfortunate situation. Prayers to the family and little boy.
This little boy deserves to go on this trip of a lifetime apportunity for him! That cruise line should not only be ashamed but they should reconsider and bend the rules for this innocent little boy.
Best wishes for you!
Way to go moms!
Praying for you ♡
Thank you for bringing this to my attention. as A mom I agree this is when rules should be thrown out. when i child if fighting for his life there shouldn’t be any rules only people wanting to help to make him feel better. Shame on Norwegian Cruise lines.
This is Bullshit…power to the mama’s!
Having booked with NCL before I can guarantee they will no longer get my future business. Further, I will do all in my power to spread the word of this to insure that those I know who cruise will NEVER cruise NCL again. A simple, kind unanimous gesture that would have scored tons of future business will now lose you exponentially more. Well deserved.
Disgusting corporate nonsense. Travel insurance? Are you kidding me?! Like the family doesn’t have enough to contend with without shattering his hopes of going on the ship. What a bunch of d bags.
This family should have bought insurance plain and simple. The story said they could not afford the couple of hundred extra dollars. Sorry to say but then maybe you should have waited to cruise then. This is not NCL’s fault and I will gladly support them as they did nothing wrong. It is obvious none of you run major business. They are for profit and not a charity.
If you people are so concerned, perhaps you should put up your own money in a Kickstarter campaign and get donating for this cruise!!!
Oh, hey “Concerned”,
Thanks for your input. You bring up fair points – all of which have, actually, occurred to me and many other participants above. Love that you raised those concerns and some sweeping generalization from behind that comfy veil of anonymity.
It seems you subscribe to “plain and simple”. So, plain and simple, pediatric cancer. A child has cancer. You have also concluded that none of us run a major business.
Hi. So, for the past 12 years I have guided, managed and run several major businesses in NYC. I have two degrees from two top tier schools. And regularly manage multi-million dollar accounts. Last year alone, My company profited $3M from business decisions I made for my team. I have been awarded and rewarded both personally and professionally for my achievements. Many of which were landed before my 30th birthday. You probably have a few of my products in your home or on your body or in your body.
Wanna know what else? I pushed a kid out of my lady parts. I am a mother. My heart, brain and body made a human and that human deserves a world of good alongside all that f*cking bullshit that comes along with life.
So you can support NCL all you want. Your decision. But you will not imply our decisions are rooted in ignorance, negligence or naïveté.
The women in this group are doctors, lawyers, business leaders, actresses, politicians, business owners, entrepreneurs and some have even fought for your livery overseas. But first, we are mothers. And we do that job with every ounce of heart and soul we have. And I, for one, will not raise my children to assume that compassion and tenacity come from a lesser spirit.
Amen, Marisa. Humanity is lost on so many in a time when we need it most. But I tell you, karma is a great thing, and I believe LM is speeding up the process via summoning our collective compassion and tenacity that you speak of!
Hell Yes Marisa!
Dear “Concerned” – Let me tell you a little bit about myself seeing as though you assume none of us have ever run a business and that we haven’t thought long and hard about this situation before forming an opinion. I graduated from a small,highly esteemed, private college. I have an Mba from an amazing and well recognized university. I have traveled all over the world and have managed teams responsible for generating millions of dollars in net revenue for companies each year. I volunteer for charities,run half marathons and love to throw parties to celebrate my friends happy life moments. Moms from this group do all of the above and SO SO much more! More than I could ever imagine doing and doing it all with more hardships than I have had to endure.
I wonder if you have children? Because if you did – not one fucking degree,piece of paper,medal of anything else that we use to define our self worth would matter to you if you found out your 5 year old son had cancer and all he wanted was to get on that big boat. Having a child has rocked my entire world and has made me question so many of things. NCL may not have legally done anything “wrong” but honestly if you look deep into your heart and if you were in this families shoes could you honestly say that they are doing what is right?
Not that this ignorant ass**** deserved your time, Marissa, but Hell fucking yes to THIS response! Perfect.
And f*cking autocorrect. Liberty. Some have fought for your LIBERTY.
Beautifully put Marissa. Seriously.
I work for a VERY large company and we have had many people and family members of employees that have become very ill or died. The company has not only held their position until they got better, or recovered from the loss of a loved one, but also donated large amounts of money to the families of these employees. So, no this is NOT a large company issue. This is an issue with one particular heartless, controlling, and greedy company, Norwegian Cruise Lines! So, please if you are as heartless as they are, keep your comments to yourself! We ALL only care about doing what is RIGHT for this little boy!!! A little boy that should NEVER have to worry about going on a dream vacation after he kicks CANCER’S BUTT!!!!!!
Only one correction: It’s not just NCL. ALL cruise lines have the same policy and they enforce it rigorously. The fact that Celebrity offered a free cruise to the family is only their attempt to capitalize on a hot story that puts their competition in a bad light. Yes, they claimed “Anonymous,” but Tara (and others involved) threw that out the window. Trust me, Celebrity knew that would happen.
Tara my heart goes out to you and your family. Your little guy is so brave and I truly pray for you all frequently.
However, going after NCL like this is not going to change a thing. You’ll have to get the entire industry to change… not just NCL. This will become a blip on the radar screen and be done with …. very quickly.
Hello concerned. I find it unwise to make general sweeping statements about people you don’t know. Let’s be real. Most work, and work damn hard, and they do it even with the kids. I may be a SAHM, but I’m not an idiot, and won’t be allowed others of my ilk to be disrespected by a comment like “OH you all don’t know what you’re talking about.” We deal with companies, some with better customer service than others.
We’re not the only ones who feel this way. Perhaps this blog post will further elaborate other BS decisions made by this company:
http://www.cruiselawnews.com/2014/07/articles/worst-cruise-line-in-the-world/norwegian-cruise-line-wins-worst-cruise-line-in-the-world-award/
So, please. State your opinion, and refrain from ad hominum blanket statements about people you don’t know. It makes you look bad.
Apparently there is no compassion in business anymore, it’s only about money and the ease of obtaining it. This mother is asking for nothing more than to reschedule, it’s like moving an appointment at a hair salon or changing a doctor appt. Sure there’s more money involved, but who, praytell, is really affected by the change of dates? Why is it so hard? And why isnt there an extenuating circumstance clause in the sales contract WITHOUT purchasing insurance? We’re all still human, and life happens to humans. And this little five year old boy, whose life had been turned upside down at the drop of a hat, is Just looking for something good in his life to look forward to as he battles his disease. My heart and prayers go out to Nicolas and family, you’ve got an army of mamas at your back, and we’re cheering for you!
It makes me so sad that Tara and her family even have to spend their time on this issue. All of their energy should be poured into getting Cooper healthy and keeping their family strong. As a member of a family who has cruised with NCL before, I spread the word to my family. My mother was disgusted by the actions of NCL. The insurance issue is pathetic. Those that say that if they had the money to spend on a cruise, they should have had the money for insurance…. Why should it be the choice between insurance, or only eating and drinking and doing what is included on the ship (which isn’t much). Especially when you have young kids. Insurance shouldn’t be so hefty of a cost. And Tara fully admits to making that mistake, but people, she just wants to RESCHEDULE not get a refund.
Well said Marisa, Amen!!
Hey Concerned,
Marisa put what I would like to say to you in much clarity and politeness. But just one thing, when u talk abo major businesses, British Airways changed my international ticket free of cost because I was going through chemotherapy myself. So, do you want to debate on the fact that you who wok for NCL or just are a suck up supporter with no empathy and are not a parent is bigger than British Airways?
Good luck with ur support
And, I hate to state the obvious, but parents who have chronically ill children generally aren’t the richest people on the planet. Without insurance, my son’s arthritis would have bankrupted us. BANKRUPT.
I was previously employed by NCL, where I managed one of their performances on board. I can say, from personal experience, that NCL does not care about people. I am disgusted, but not surprised, by their treatment towards this family. I hope that the company quickly remedies this situation.
WHAT MARISA SAID.
classy.
heartfelt.
on point.
So much love to that beautiful little boy, Tara and the family.
xxxx
Right when I become interested in booking a Bermuda Cruise with Norwegion I see this. Not giving me any positive thought about this place.
Not giving you any positive thoughts about this place Jennifer?! I think your perspective is a bit clouded and you need a reality check instead of a fucking cruise!
I’m sorry, I don’t think we get that….we don’t speak idiot! And your village called, they need you back ASAP.
Meant for that to go to “Concerned”!
Written to public relations representative:
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing in regards to a Facebook post I came across involving a family (last name Colucci) who recently discovered their 5 year old son Nicolas had a large cancerous tumor growing inside his liver. Prior to this finding, the family booked a trip with NCL but had to cancel for obvious reasons (ie: surgery/chemotherapy). When the family called NCL to discuss rescheduling their trip, they were told they could not.
The reason for my correspondence is to firstly find out if this story is indeed accurate. Secondly, if it is, to find out why NCL could deny this family (especially this little boy) the great joy of rescheduling a trip they look forward to as means to look past this devastating experience. As a mother of two small children, I would trust and hope that this story is not accurate. I would trust and hope that your CEO, Kevin Sheehan being a father himself, would personally look into this situation and instruct NCL to honor this little boy’s request to finally take the trip he may never be able to take again.
As an NCL passenger for many years, I could only hope that this matter is looked into with the level of understanding it truly deserves. Wishing the best for this family to be able to experience LIFE again.
This powerful industry should be ashamed of their policy! I hope this family gets their full refund, and finds a better company that has human compassion
This makes me be ashamed of being norwegian citizen…
I know that they have rules but then again rules are made to be broken sometimes and for situations like this they should have broken it…
I will share this on my fb so that also my norwegian friend will see this and share it so many people can see this so that the boy can get the trip that he want and that the parents has paid for….
Just push this so they realize how stupid they are 🙂
I wish u all the best and that u get the trip that u deserve 🙂
Wow is all I can say, what type of heartless people run this most likely multi-billion dollar company! I’m sure every cruise that goes out is not filled to the limit and they can get them rescheduled, I have never been on a cruise and was hoping to go in the next year or so, I don’t care if Norwegians prices are half of other companies, you will not see me board one of their ships! Good luck Tara!
You should be ashamed of yourselves Norwegian Cruise Line, I’ve sailed with you and had a wonderful experience but this story makes my blood boil. Who do you think you are, like rescheduling this trip would be such a big deal. You make thousands of dollars with each cruise that sails you can put aside your petty trip insurance for this situation. It’s not like they wanted their money back, for crying out loud have a heart!!!##
I would like to thank LilMamas for the love and support of my nephew Nicolas. If I could hug each and every one of you I would. Thank you xoxox Love Uncle Chuck
I sincerely hope NCL reverses their decision and allows the family to reschedule.
I have used that cruise line in the past but I don’t think I will use them in the future. If they don’t know they are in the business of servicing humans I don’t want to support the company.
Their company rep did an outstanding job of representing the essential nastiness of the corporate world. You won’t find me on a Norwegian Cruise …
This is just an awful situation – hard to imagine how any large company with the power to help a family would not step up and do so! Prayers to this family for a speedy recovery ! And prayers to NCL as well because I’m not sure how you can live with yourselves !!!!
After reading this I am cancelling all my insurance policies. It seems like I can save all kinds of money and if something comes up just do a social media blitz. Why should I take any responsibility?
Ok – so that was sarcasm. I understand this situation from both sides (my wife is a cancer survivor that learned of her disease while on a 2 week cruise – not sure why she took the phone call but she did.) I have also been selling to consumers for a long time. We have now become a society that takes no personal responsibility. If insurance was not offered then the agent might be responsible, if the parents did not buy it then they are.
As the Colucci family has said multiple times if they could go back and change one thing it would have been to get the travel insurance. That being said sometimes rules and regulations need to be bent when the situation calls for it. People keep bringing up lots of instances when they have missed trips (illness, deaths, accidents, unforseen emergencies) and of course these are all horrific awful things to go through, as someone who lost a parent to Ovarian cancer I can attest.. But I seriously don’t know how someone can’t rally behind a CHILD with CANCER…Nicholas is fighting the battle of a lifetime. If we can’t find compass and love in our hearts to know this is the right thing to do you have a whole bigger problem. Our world has become so jaded and cynical it really is sad. Lets be the Colucci’s village and instead of villafing them for making the mistake of not getting travel insurance stand with them and support a little boys dream…to me thats not so hard to do and it seems like the majority of people stand with Nicholas!
I’m so sorry to hear your wife had to find out such devastating need while on her cruise, I’m glad she is ok! Did she have to leave the ship immediately for life saving surgery and immediate chemotherapy before even stepping foot on the boat halting all dreams and plans so that she could fight for her life before really having lived it? It’s all perspective, a 5 year old little boy fighting for life in an instant.
Health insurance, car insurance, and homeowner’s insurance are all long term plans. Travel “insurance” is totally difference. The entire premise is based on the assumption that people won’t pay and money will be made from refusing refunds. It’s basically paying a large sum to have the ability to use the refund if necessary. And yeah, the Coluccis didn’t buy it. But you know what? This had nothing to do with “entitlement” or “personal responsibility” or whatever buzzwords you want to throw in there. The Coluccis didn’t want anything for free–they just wanted to take the cruise that they already paid for.
I mean, FFS, am I going to have to buy Shopper’s insurance if I want to return a broken table? Scam-a-lama-ding-dong and corporate greed.
Bad analogy. If the table was broken, you didn’t get what you paid for. In this case, they paid for a cruise and chose not to use it. Totally different.
I would bet almost anything that the CEO (or an employee) of NCL has “swiched” trips of close Family members and friends without insurance under the table and their story isn’t even close to Nocols’.
Greed is dirty. And leads to bad Karma!
I’m so happy that there is still goodness in this world and Nicolas gets to celebrate soon on and awesome cruise that supports goodness!
Also! Shoutout to Fox and Friends for sharing their story! And all the lil mamas!! Xo
NCL….it’s ok to go out on a limb…that’s where the fruit is. #cruiseforNicholas #ittakesavillage #mamassticktogether
I find it fascinating that if you look into the people who have posted negative comments about this family on Facebook you find that they are mostly people who profit from travelers spending more money, (travel agents, cruise planners etc). It might be time for a few people to separate their pocket book from their moral compass. We are talking about a child with cancer. Try to think back to a time when that was a human instead of a dollar sign.
Sorry, but the family was offered the opportunity to purchase travel insurance and declined. Instead, they gambled $4K+ on the fact that they would be able to go in order to save at most a few hundred dollars for insurance. If they had gambled $4K in a casino and lost, would they expect a refund there too?
I feel bad for the family and the child, but to go public with this in an attempt to extort NCL for the amount of the refund is just wrong. How about the family take some personal responsibility and admit that they screwed up by not purchasing travel insurance. NCL’s policy is the same as that of every other cruise line out there. To make an exception for one would mean they would be expected to make an exception for everyone. That’s not the way things work.
Now go back to getting the proper care for the child and stop trying to be extortionists.
OK so I will be shot down for my post. I am here because Celia Behar seems to think that agreeing with NCL means you are not compassionate. Well, I am compassionate ANDI agree with NCL. I feel bad for the kid. NO child should have to deal with serious illness. The family chose not to buy insurance, whatever reason they used it was their choice. I am all about choice and personal responsibility. Insurance by definition is an agreement by one party to another where the second party will pay a certain amount if something happens. NCL is NOT an insurance company and you are always offered the insurance and they do use a bit of scare tactics to sell it such as what happens if someone gets serious sick or injured. The family choose not to buy the insurance. A choice they decided to take. Do not expect people to change the rules for you when you choose not to follow them. NCL (an all cruise companies alike) have the same policy. Don’t blame NCL for the Coluccis’ bad choices.
David,
There are times when rules need bending. This is not a LAW, it is a policy, that was put in place to avoid constant changes and cancellations. There is nothing typical about this situation. While I understand that policies and rules should generally be separated from human emotion and compassion, there are times when policy makers/businesses need to look at the SPECIFIC situation, and decide if a little tweaking needs to be done. The Coluccis are not asking for a refund. They are not asking for anything unreasonable.
I’m gonna have to agree with Celia Behar on this one.
We do not argue the fact the insurance might have changed things (MIGHT, NCL may still have had small print that could have screwed them in the end) but this is about calling upon a company to have a HEART. The family wants nothing more than what they paid for. When they contacted NCL they KNEW they had officially lost out…but, really? Soulless. That was soulless. I own my own business…had I a chance to do something above and beyond and get some publicity too….and sleep better at night? You bet I would do it! “Bad choice” is salt in the wound of a heating family. This issue is NOT political, it is a private sector matter, therefore, “if you don’t have something NICE to say_____”
David,
Here’s the thing. Everyone keeps bringing up travelers insurance – including NCL – but there is actually no guarantee that the Colucci’s would have been covered regardless. Because like all insurers, travel insurance companies live and die by the fine print in their policies. It bears remembering that the fine print is FINE for a reason as companies are hoping you DON’T read carefully before buying a policy. Also, they are designed to cover you for the problems you anticipate could happen — such as a hurricane. I don’t believe that anyone anticipates their child having cancer. Ever. But the fact is, I don’t know what policy NCL uses or presented to The Colucci’s and neither do you because NCL hasn’t actually shown anyone anything. Furthermore, now that the family has a child with cancer they will now have a hell of a time ever getting travel insurance as it’s going to be considered a pre-existing condition.
But this is not an argument or a post about insurance – and although some people think it is or that shelling out an extra 400 bucks on top of 4000 for a family of 4 is no big whoop – it certainly can be. But it’s not about the money either. It IS about compasion for a family, not a company. The fact that anyone is actually siding with a huge company as opposed to a family that only wants what they paid for – not a refund – just what they had paid for – is not compassionate – it’s sad. That’s all, just sad. Because NCL doesn’t need your help or support. They have lawyers for that. But a 5-yr-old boy and his family could use some.
No worries though – Lil’ Mamas isn’t about to stop supporting them. And if NCL had any compassion AT ALL they would at the very least let The Colucci’s know how sorry they are, which they also have not done.
Finally, in case you are NOT aware – NCL not only didn’t reschedule the trip – but legally is allowed to re-sell the cabin that The Colucci’s bought to someone else at the same price. So they actually GAIN from a child having cancer. That’s right. They lose nothing. Just gain. Sound compassionate?
Way to go NCL. This could have been avoided if the family had bought insurance.
Dear Kristi – I generally think there is a special place in hell for women that don’t uplift and support other women – but are you a moron or just an asshole? Please read the eloquently written post directly above yours 😉 It was never really about the insurance!!!!! Thank you and God Bless!
Calling someone names makes you look childish. If you think it is not about the insurance, I don’t think it has anything to do with uplifting and supporting women. What it has to do with is a family enlisting the media to extort something out of the cruise line for which they are not entitled.
According to news reports I’ve read, NCL offered to reschedule the cruise (which they did not have to do), but the family insists on a full refund.
Not trying to start a going back and forth Steve, but what you said is actually the opposite of what the family wanted. They did not want a refund, but to reschedule the cruise for when their son was done with chemotherapy. Wherever you read that wasthere information was completely wrong.
It saddens and sickens me to see how NCL handled this situation. I tried posting my thoughts on their FB page but – surprise surprise, my comments were deleted. In the short time my post was on their wall, I was shocked to see how many supporters they actually have. It’s not about the insurance. It’s not about the fine print. It’s about – ‘Hey, let’s have a heart and think of this poor child and how his family is going to have to support him with this excruciatingly unexpected tragedy!’ …but instead, they took the ‘Oh well, you’re s**t out of luck’ route! Real classy, Norwegian. No matter – they have been exposed for the money-hungry slobs they are. My husband and I have cruised with them before …. but NEVER AGAIN!
By the way… when we cruised with them, Kim Cattrall (from ‘Sex And The City’) was on the cruise as well (she was the “Godmother” of the Norwegian Dawn)…. I’d like to know if the family has tried contacting any celebrities who may be affiliated with this company to try and gain some real exposure to how they treat their customers? I’m curious to see what the response would be.
Shame on NCL for not telling this family that they can reschedule this trip when their son is well enough to travel! No one was asking for a handout here, just a delay in the boarding date!
They did offer to change the date of the cruise (according to news reports). The family would rather try to extort a refund. Not shame on NCL, but rather shame on the family for being extortionists.
Again that is not true information Steve. They just wanted to reschedule. Sorry you got the wrong information from some site.
Steve,
I’ve seen you mention that NCL has offered to reschedule the families cruise many times. That is not ENTIRELY true. They gave the family a personal rep to contact when they were ready to book ANOTHER cruse. NOT reschedule the cruise they had already paid for. Meaning, they would gladly take another $4,000+ from them. Funny how a huge company can word things to make them sound like they were actually doing something nice, when in reality, they were being greedy and heartless.
Years ago, my family had a trip planned to a resort in Jamaica. Days before the trip my husband was hospitalized with viral meningitis. The night he was admitted to the hospital I reached out to the airline and resort, neither of which was covered by trip insurance. To my amazement, the airline agreed..at no fee…to change our flights when we were prepared to go again and the resort did likewise! Why a cruise line can’t do this for a 5 yr old with cancer I cannot fathom. What terrible customer care.
Steve,
First let me say ” you who lacks compassion and just general humanity, need not tell us to sort out roper care for Nicholas!” Tara is well capable and an amazing inspiring mother who has been doing the best with her little one and standing up against NCL does not take away from her duties with her kid in any way but rather has her losing on sleep as she has an extra issue to handle!
David – I agree about choices being a person’s responsibility but when you are dealing with financial debt and restrictions, you generally do not want to pay more for insurance when you are already stretching your budget just to provide happiness to your kid. I am saying this from personal experience, it just does not feel right to spend money on insurance when its just a trip few months away which you are waiting for and never anticipate something like life threatening disease, or death to happen :@
Manasa,
First let me say that I do not “lack compassion and general humanity.” However, you lack a sense of general respect by saying so.
Insurance is for the purpose of protecting you if unexpected things happen. It doesn’t matter whether it is a few days, week, months or years. You apparently do not understand the purpose of insurance. Because it was a short time, they were willing to gamble their $4000 that nothing bad would happen and they lost that gamble. That is the end of the story right there. They knew the risk they took, but they took it anyway. Now they enlist the media to extort NCL into “doing the right thing.” The right thing for NCL is to stick by their policy, or they will need to make an exception nearly every day.
Steve I totally agree with you, I work for NCL Guest have cancelled reservations because death, illness without travelers insurance and they lose everything i dont see them going to Media to gain sympathy. Policy is Policy I feel bad for Little Nick, but also feel bad for the dozens that had to cancel.. This is a lesson if not able to pay extra for insurance maybe you should choose a a trip thats cost less
Hello everyone!
Its amazing to see so much support for Nicolas and Tara! Norwegian will certainly think twice about their refund policies moving forward no matter how stupidly they respond in the short term.
I have one thing to add just to throw something positive around just a little bit….
When my late wife was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago, there were several flights that we suddenly were unable to take. Our first call to American Airlines for a refund or credit was unsuccessful. After the call I, Googled the email address of the CEO and sent both he and the head of Customer Relations the same message requesting a refund or credit. The next morning, I received a phone from to a representative who was put in charge of resolving the issue and she was a huge help… Most of our money was refunded and some was given back in credit which did not expire.
Now if only the Customer Relations Dept. at Norwegian would wake up and do the same… And mamas, don’t give up if you are ever in this situation! If there isn’t anyone at a company who is happy to help you, that business isn’t going to last very long!
God I wish every one would get the facts straight about this story. First off the family was offered travel protection which is insurance in case someone gets sick! They denied the insurance! When they called they were offered to move to a different date but because they were so close to the original sail date and no insurance there were no refunds! If the cruise line offers to refund this one cruise they would have to go back and refund thousands of cruises because someone got sick. The cruise line has done nothing wrong and what what I’ve seen so far this family is lying about half of their information. Such as not being offered to go to another cruise date, they were offered other dates! Look at it this way say you have a car with no insurance and you get into a wreck who the hell it paying for the car, you are!!!! Why because you don’t have insurance. Look I’ve worked in the travel industry for 20 years and this situation has happened a lot more than people know about to people of all ages and it’s not just NCL it’s Royal and Carnival also so ppl need to get off their high horse and stop trying to extort the company to get something for free. If you don’t get the insurance unfortunately this is what happens. And again if the company gives in who’s to say that everyone who has ever gotten sick and had to cancel a cruise from NCL, RC, or carnival doesn’t go back and demand money. If that were to happen there would be no more cruise industry because the thousands that cancel with no insurance because they got sick wanted money back.
Anny Mouse – are you the customer service rep who handled the family’s calls? How do you know that they were offered alternate dates? The “truth” you are describing is NOT THE TRUTH. You must work for NCL since you know so much about what the Coluccis were offered… It’s interesting to me that THIS is how NCL is publicly responding to the media surrounding the Colucci family’s story… Maybe I should forward it to FOX or NBC or cruiselawnews.com or sheknows.com or any of the other media outlets that covered this story??
Anny, a better comparison than car insurance (which is mandated by law), would have been to the airline industry. With proof, ANY airline will allow changes up to the last minute for serious illness. The cruise industry is not all bad, but in this case, NCL is taking advantage of the fact that they are held to a much lower standard.
I suspect that you don’t in fact work for NCL and your comment is completely uninformed. You may be a travel agent who works with cruises and don’t want your business to take a hit, well… Too. Bad. The mamas are engaged, and we take caring for and supporting our own very seriously. We’re fiercely loyal and won’t give up when it has to do with our children.
No I do not work for Norwegian however I am a travel agent and have delt with a situation like this before and yes I do know things when it comes to a few cruise lines. It is a sad situation yes but if the company says ok we will forget our policy this one time and give a refund who’s to say that thousand of more people who canceled because they got sick or for whatever reason doesn’t call in and demand a refund? This is the reason all cruise lines offer the insurance. And btw I have had to cancel air line tickets last minute and no even with prof did they refund me so that’s not a good comparison and no not all states require auto insurance which is why I said that. NCL is just following their policy and are not taking advantage of anyone. Is it bad maybe but you have to look at it in different ways such as a business perspective. Cruise lines no matter what company loose more than what was just originally charged for the cabin when it is canceled so close to the sail date. Besides have you looked in Norwegians system and reviewed the notes on the account and personally seen if they were offered another date or are you just going off what was said on tv? Every single time u have had to call any cruise line to cancel a booking due to sick client I was offered to change dates, were there penalties yes if there was no insurance on the booking no matter the situation.
Anny,
You are absolutely right. Refusing the insurance means they accepted the risk. They gambled and lost. Now it is just an extortion attempt. Neither Fox nor anyone else should help them with that effort.
Thank for that Steve. Yes they accepted the risk and I well understand that money is tight these days. I am praying for the family but the company has done nothing wrong as per their policies.
Thank you Steve & Ann
Well said !!
FFS! Who are you??? Because you do not have your facts straight at all!!!!
Those of us who know Tara personally KNOW that they were NEVER offered a change of date! THAT is ALL they were asking for! They NEVER wanted a flipping refund! So stop running your mouthing on something you actually have NO IDEA about and have none of the real FACTS!
I’m only going by what I’ve read on all the news reports. Perhaps they should have the news people clarify the story.
According to Travel Pulse, a respected travel blog, Norwegian Cruise Line’s statement was, “After learning of the circumstances regarding the cancellation of the Colucci family’s cruise, we wanted to make sure that Nicholas would be able to take cruise that he was so very much looking forward to. While we knew getting Nicholas well again was the family’s top priority, we offered to work closely with the family when Nicholas was ready to travel to ensure that they took their vacation and we provided a personal contact at Norwegian for the family to stay in touch with. Separately, one of our travel partners reached out to Mrs. Colucci and offered their help in making sure the family took the cruise they had planned.”
“In addition, we contacted the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organization that we work closely with to grant the wishes of hundreds of children each year who want to take a cruise. If the family chooses to participate in the Make-A-Wish program, we will make sure that they receive the cruise they were looking forward to.”
“We are touched by many similar situations and do our very best to work with our guests to offer support wherever possible. As a company that provides vacation experiences for more than 1.3 million people each year, we understand that situations such as this occur. In all instances, we must balance these requests with the need to treat fairly those guests who have elected to purchase travel protection insurance. In an effort to provide guests with peace of mind, we offer travel protection and we strongly encourage our guests to take advantage of this safeguard to cover unforeseen circumstances. We continue to wish the very best for the Colucci family and hope that Nicholas gets well soon so that he can take his long-awaited cruise.”
http://www.travelpulse.com/news/cruise/norwegian-faces-pr-backlash-for-refusing-cancer-family-refund.html
Hey Anny Mouse –
Let’s start by getting YOUR facts straight. All the family asked for WAS to reschedule. They were denied. They were never offered an opportunity to reschedule. They were told, “Oops, sorry, nothing we can do”. SO before you come on here and spread false rumors, take a minute to get it right. As for the NCL PR’s response where they said they’d help the family rebook – that is a twisted representation of that they ACTUALLY said to the mother. They told her she could “maybe” get a small discount is she wanted to get another cruise. But that is wasn’t “guaranteed”. They way these people twist things to cover their asses is pathetic! WHY would this family want to go through all this and read all this crap people are writing about them? For a rebooked cruise? Are you kidding me? They are being harassed. When they 5 year old is battling for his life. NOBODY wanted that! NOBODY! As for the reference David makes in his short-sided “eye for and eye” post that this is a family of extortionists – that is total crap. The mothers in this group are standing up for this family who simply asked for grace and compassion. Tara had expressed that in hindsight she would OF COURSE get the insurance! Jesus! Enough is enough. She didn’t ask for her money back, people. She didn’t ask for something for free. She asked if she and her family could take the cruise after her son was done with CHEMO. Nobody is saying Norwegian had the duty to accommodate her. They had an OPPORTUNITY to do something good and they didn’t. They just didn’t. They thought of the bottom line, the CEO’s pocketbook and their own best interests. Now – go back to selling your insurance up there in the clouds on your high horse where 5 year old boys aren’t undergoing CHEMO. Oh, and suck it.
Did I state that they only wanted a refund? No. I was simply stating there is no way they were not offered another date and the fact that they were so close to the original date that they were in full penalty meaning even if the dates changed they would still be charged.
I’m sorry, but that’s just a total misrepresentation of what happened. What on earth makes people think they were offered alternative dates? That’s just not true. The Coluccis only wanted to reschedule. If you go back to the earliest source on this–incidentally, this blog, you’ll see what the family was asking for. I hate to be that person, but for all those claiming otherwise–cite your sources. Kthxbai.
Amy – really? Nothing that you have written is correct – it doesn’t matter how many explanation marks you add, still not correct. I am an insurance agent and your comparison between travel insurance & auto insurance is laughable.
Laughable how? You purchase any type of insurance for the just in case situation. My husband is an insurance agent as well. Not all states require auto insurance or they may only require personal injury insurance. For those that only have pip insurance if they get into a wreck that is their fault who is paying for their car, they are. With travel protection you are covered for being sick and missing the cruise you are also covered for a lot more than that as well. Did you know that if you get injured on a cruise ship and the coast guard has to pick you up on a helicopter that can cost upwards of $30,000, that is covered under travel protection. Unfortunately my aunt fount that out the hard way three years ago because she didn’t see a need for it. So please tell me how the comparison is laughable.
Very simply, auto insurance is a state law and travel insurance is not. I never said that you shouldn’t get travel insurance, however, it is something that the travel industry can bend the rules for and that is absolutely not true for auto insurance. The fact that is that no, the Colucci family did not have travel insurance but given the circumstances we are asking for NCL to have a HEART and let them reschedule! There is no law stating that without this insurance this is not possible. It not only IS possibly but it is the humane thing to do. I cannot believe that I live in a society that others would treat someone like this. This family has been harassed and belittled by so many people and it is disgusting. I don’t think we would treat others like this if we came across one another face to face. The Colucci’s didn’t ask for any of this. Tara vented to us about NCL & probably thought it would end there but we saw an injustice & felt something more could and should be done here. In hindsight would they purchase travel insurance? Of course, but we are past that point, they have thousands of dollars invested and a son fighting cancer. NCL could have said, there’s nothing we can do directly however here’s the phone # to our Make A Wish contact, they will get this rebooked for you….something! Anything! Instead this company was very COLD and they should feel ashamed. We are hoping that they will have a brief second thought now about they handle these situations.
My thing is that yes it is a sad situation for all involved, the family and the company. However I personally know that this type of thing has happened a lot if times over the years. I have had personal experience with another cruise line in which the same exact thing happened. Albeit it wasn’t a 5 year old but a 60+ year old woman who was diagnosed with colon cancer and had to move her date. She found out two days before the sailing. The company charged her 100% penalty due to not having insurance. However they did give a discount on a second date, not much of a discount if you ask me. And this was also before the age of social media. Besides did I ever say the family shouldn’t get anything in return for all of this, no. I just simply stated policies about insurance never said travel protection was a requirement. Large companies of any type travel or other wise have no heart so to speak they just follow the policies that are written out. Personally I hope the family and the child especially can pull thru this and take that dream vacation, I never stated otherwise. Someone below stated that the company would make $12k off the cabin which is untrue. Cruise lines attempt to sail at full capacity and if a cabin is canceled close to sailing they must resale the cabin. Most times at a lot lower fare just to fill the space. In other words a $2k cabin may go down to $1k or less. They may not even sell it so to speak they may have to upgrade someone to the cabin and sell a lower cabin at a lower fare. So no the company will not make $12k off that one cabin. Any way my prayers are with the family during this time no matter what some people may think. I do have a heart and a lot of cancer cases in my own family I was just stating the policy on insurance.
It saddens me to see all the harsh comments on here, especially the ones based on misinformation. I cannot fathom why a person would feel the need to spread lies and spew hatred about a mother or a family that they have never met.
The Lil’ Mamas are not about that. This group of moms created a safe forum for other moms to ask questions, vent problems, seek support and share stories without fear of judgement. The Lil’ Mamas are about caring, respecting and helping each other. When one Mama tragically lost her daughter, the Mamas raised money to fly her best friend to see her. When one Mama faced medical bankruptcy, the Mamas held a fundraiser for her family. In this case, when one Mama simply needed to vent over her poor son’s loss of vacation on top of his medical problems, the Mamas stepped up to see if they could help.
If you don’t agree with the actions of the family or the Mamas – that’s fine. You are certainly welcome to state your opinion, but please do it respectfully, as this particular family and these Mamas deserve no less. Standing up for what you believe in will never be wrong. Personally, I believe that if taking 15 seconds out of my day to write to NCL could help a very sick boy smile, then it’s worth it, regardless of corporate regulations.
This was written earlier……
“They didn’t buy it because they couldn’t afford it and of course NEVER thought their son would be diagnosed with cancer just WEEKS before they were supposed to travel.”
Couple of questions. (And please don’t suggest I am heartless as I will go one to one with you about what compassion I have shown and the dollars I have donated/raised).
1) If they could not afford the insurance, how could they afford the cruise. More importantly, If one cannot afford the insurance one should NOT buy the cruise. What if this litte guy just had a massive ear infection and could not fly, or mom or dad has a kidney stone, or the plane was delayed…..Yes maybe it would be nice if all business said….Have a potentially deadly disease then we wil lcover you, but it’s not the way it works.
2) “Never thought their son would be diagnosed…” Isnt’ that EXACTLY why we buy insurance ?
When I read this I think that if I am wrong, I should cancel all insurance. After all I dont’ expect a house fire, or a car accident, or a break in. I haven’t made a claim in 22 years after all.
The idea that they are just “moving” the cruise is wrong. The cruiseline would have sold 2 cabins for the price of one, as just a start. (I will write more on this concept later.
I think that with the right approach this would have been a different blog but right now it’s is all about a misplaced sense of entitlement. How bout. We screwed up. Can anyone help us and if you don’t we understand. Currently it;s Poor us, we deserve this. and big corporations should just take care of us because they are greedy and we are not.
NCL by the way donates millions to good causes as do all the cruise lines. Did you ever think of that.
As others have pointed out, some of you haters really need to get your facts straight. This original blog above tells what really happened- all they ever asked for was to reschedule and all NCL ever told them was ‘no’! It’s a blatant case of an uncaring corporate response. The very fact that they bill themselves as a family-friendly cruise line and work with organizations like Make-A-Wish but offered No help to reschedule the trip just shows their hypocrisy! Unfortunately, several of the media reports glommed onto Fox’s misstatement claiming they wanted a refund and ran with it and now NCL came out with a bullshit PR statement to cover their asses (http://www.travelpulse.com/news/cruise/norwegian-faces-pr-backlash-for-refusing-cancer-family-refund.html). Guess what, people- they’re lying- or if they did offer everything they say in that statement then they must’ve Just done it in response to the backlash because they sure as he’ll didn’t offer them any help to start with! Now on top of dealing with their little boy’s illness, the family has to be subject to undeserved attacks on their character. The mamas on this group started the social media campaign in an effort to help a fellow mom who was just venting to her community during a difficult time. It’s really sad to see how people come to the defense of a gigantic corporation instead of showing some compassion.
Blah blah blah…. .com haters. What this is really about is supporting a family in need! If you wanted to make your children’s dreams come true and you were able to save up JUST enough to do so, wouldn’t you? Insurance…blah blah blah, shoulda woulda coulda didn’t! Because they were able to save just enough! All they wanted was to reschedule. NOT a refund. NCL said they could reschedule but only after paying another $4,000 (is my understanding). So to me personally, it sounds like NCL was trying to make $12,000.00 because this poor little boy is fighting cancer! $4,000 for the original cruise, $4,000 to resell their cabin on the original cruise, and then make this family pay another $4,000 for a new cruise. That to me is just a shame and outright heartless.
NCL should be ashamed of themselves. It would be no big deal to refund you the money it’s not like they can’t get the cabin sold again. Or give you a credit and go when Nicolas is well.
Best of Luck!
Stacie
I am still in shock that the family did not purchase insurance because they could not afford the extra $200. What did they think excursions, onboard spending, gratuities would have cost. Just because we quote the full penalty policies of a cruise line, the ASSumption is we are not compassionate or uncaring. If you do not agree, you are named called by those who do nothing to help their case.
Frankly if anyone thinks this page or the less than 1700 likes on the FB page are going to move market share away from NCL, they are sorely mistaken. But you can keep dreaming. Several major stories have been forgotten in a matter of weeks because of the 24/7 news cycle.
No one takes responsibility any more for the action or inaction. It is just go on social media and plead their case. Sorry for the boy, but the cruise line did nothing wrong. By the way, most travel insurance policies would cover exactly this type of loss even with the FINE print, but there has been so much misinformation about that, it is laughable!
Oh Hey, “Concerned”. Me again.
You’re in “shock”? Really? “Shocking.” Hmm.
And this “page with 1,700 likes” not going to move market share away? That’s what you think we’re trying to do? Wrong. We don’t give a fuck about NCL. We want Nicolas to take a vacation. It’s not about YOU, or NCL – it’s about a little boy.
However, if you’d like to get into a debate about quantitative metrics and popularity ratings and the psychographic of the NCL consumer on social media, I’m happy to engage. We can also discuss the impact of testimonials on purchase decisions and brand equity. We can discuss what the impact of 1,700 “Ground zero” consumers can do via social networks, personal connections and the all important weight of a dollar. So. 1,700 is just the beginning (also, you can only see the public part of LM. So, there’s that.)
And, thanks for telling me how the news industry works and how things will be “forgotten” What’s that saying about today’s news story lining tomorrow’s trash bin? (ever do a google search, dude?). My masters degree in Mass Communication must have left that part out.
Hell hath no fury like a mama scorned. I have zero reservations about fighting for a little boy’s vacation. The misinformation is yours.
No Little boy with cancer should be going on a trip while receiving treatment. I suggest you look into that one. And all little boys and girls get trips if they choose that with the charitable organizations that look after ill children. Most children want Disney trips or something they can use at home while recovering. I personally have never heard of a child with cancer asking to go on a cruise unless it was a Disney cruise. And I look after children with all types of cancers and illnesses.
Wendy – You should really read this story or any of the other write-ups regarding this matter. The family did not want to take their sick son on a cruise. The cruise was booked prior to the family’s knowledge of their son’s illness. They were only requesting to re-book at a later date when their son was finished with his treatment. Also, it was a Nickelodeon cruise catered towards children which he was greatly looking forward to. There are many articles which further discuss this situation, and I encourage you to read them to better understand what this family has gone through.
I read the story. The family purchased a cruise and they did not buy the insurance. Their son unfortunately got ill with cancer like so many children and adults do. They went onto the news with their story trying to make Norwegian in the wrong. If you care about your family members with cancer you do not socialize with anyone as their germs come into your home. I know of many siblings with family members that have cancer that do not go to school even due to the illnesses and risks to their family. So the family had the news team at their home. They just needed to go through the right channels . And buy insurance which I am sure they and others will hopefully learn their lesson. I am a pediatric nurse that looks after many children that are palliative with varying illnesses. They need to focus positively on their child.
Wendy…please share as to where you are employed as a pediatric nurse so I know to never allow my child to be in your care. Compassion is the key to survival. You ma’am show none. This family is well aware (they have consulted with oncology physicians) as to what to and not to allow in their home, or around their child. This family HAS put their child’s health first. Please know your roll. Learn love. This poor child just wanted a vacation or maybe he understood it as some time in a pool with kids and his mom and dad. If your job is to take care of CHILDREN then join that fantasy. Or don’t. And quit. And let alllllll of us mamas know where you practice so we can never bring our child to you. Because maybe doctors or nurses can’t fix everything….but they can always believe. God Bless.
Hey Concerned.
I don’t know how to put this, but this is kind of a big deal. So much for 1,700 MOMMIES, huh?
http://www.prnewsonline.com/water-cooler/2014/07/28/when-corporate-bureaucracy-backfires-on-communications/#.U9v-Tr4-TcJ.facebook
I have cruised on NCL 3 times and plan on cruising with them every time. They always tell me when I book the cruise that once the cruise is paid in full, there is no refund and no changing the scheduled cruise. The only time they would do that is if you purchased insurance. They can’t bend the rules for one person regardless of the horrible circumstances. If they did, they would have to bend the rules for others as well. Soon their “rules” would be altered and they would loose much money. Then their prices would have to go up. It’s very sad that this poor family is dealing with such a tragic thing, but I still stand behind NCL and what they have done.
Please stop being so naive about “where do you draw the line”. Corporations and businesses make exceptions all the time – it’s happening somewhere as I type this. And guess what? No one is none the wiser, including you. And enough with the brilliant Captain Obvious comments (“buy insurance”, “where do you draw the line”, blah blah) – they are quite boring, and really besides the point here.
You are free to cruise with Norwegian as often as you’d like. I could care less about what you choose to do or choose not to do. However, the fact that you came to this blog (one which exists at an attempt to give this amazing family and little boy fighting cancer a deserved chance to take the vacation they paid for) to boast about your loyalty to Norwegian from your self righteous, ivory tower really speaks volumes about you, more than anything else. Hopefully, in life, you (and others like you) will never, ever have to rely on the kindness of others (in case you missed it, that was sarcasm, because of course you will).
Others, including me, will continue to focus on the real point at hand, which is to support a young boy who was handed a crappy cancer card, and just wants to go on a cruise (that his family paid for, not a freebie, and not a refund). Unfortunately, we can’t take away his cancer, but we can help get the message out so a large corporation can consider doing the right thing for a request so attainable.
*I couldn’t care less
Oh there E &’ Concerned
In the words of Mr. “Concerned” I AM SHOCKED at how much you at NCL or NCL is unprofessional, lying and scorning at all this for just a reschedule. It’s not even a refund which is being asked, so I dont understand why NCL just can’t accomodate one family in the many cruises planned in the future. Even if it means you might have to do the same for many ( like E claims is a normal thing to happen), what’s wrong in accomodating client in a future cruise? The problem for clients with that would be they would not get to choose and would have to go on a date provided. Is that not what is called good customer service and retaining clients.
I am not with NCL if that is your suggestion. I am a consumer that doesn’t want to pay for others greed. I buy insurance. (Sounds like I don’t need to anymore). If we all stop buying insurance and simply expect Corporations to cover things for us then we will pay for it in the price.
I think it would have been nice if NCL gave them another cruise – that would be a bonus. BUT I REFUSE to blame them for simply following the deal they made with.
They were either offered insurance or did not make a smart choice. How is this possibly NCL’s problem.
PS Tune in to my Travel Talk Radio Show this week. We are talking about why you need travel insurance (For the 40th time) Sunday at Noon EST http://www.cfra.com (you can listen live)
As a travel agent I always offer travel insurance to clients — for exactly this reason and also in case trouble occurs during their trip. While I can sympathize with this family, they only have themselves to blame for not taking out insurance. Now they want Norwegian to pay them because they tried to cut corners. I hear it all the time, “No matter what, we’re going”. So sorry many times.
Stated here they are Guessing that this is costing NCL 10s of millions of dollars!! Was is worth it NCL!?
http://grid.pjmedia.com/?cmd=mpg&mpid=754&load=10058
Story starts alil after 8mins.
Thank you everyone for all the love and support! None of this would have happened if it wasn’t for LilMamas!!! ❤ #myfriendsarebetterthenyours #nicolaslaw #changetherules #showcompassion
Not likely costing them that much. People daily tell me they won’t fly one airline or another until the price is different. Look at Costa and Carnival. This has nothing on those. By the way I have a client that booked 35K of travel, they had no insurance (couldn’t get it) 7 Cabins. The Matriarch died of Pancreatic Cancer. They lost 12K of deposits. Should the get a free cruise or all their money back? Oddly they are not asking for a handout. They knew what they are getting into.
Just a question. Had anyone actually heard the phone call that took place? Or is everyone going on what they heard on tv or on a website?
While my best wishes go out to the family of the child and to the child. I just wonder if anyone actually heard the phone call or if they are speculating what was said on tv or on the net about the issue. Personally I book my own cruises and have cruise with all the big players of the cruise industry. I have never once had an issue like this from NCL. I’ve always been offered insurance and always accepted it after my first cruise which I didn’t take it and it turned out horrible. Different cruise line however, my mother got sick and had to be airlifted. I was only saved from a $45k bill due to her health insurance and other things. Any way it hope everything works out for the child and the family. God bless.
This family will end up with 3 cruises and so much money people are dontating. Every ill child gets a wish with the Children’s Wish foundation . If they choose a cruise they will go again. Many children are ill but not every parent goes to the news station because they did not pay the insurance. If you buy a car and do not have insurance you do not get to cry to the car dealer that you crashed the car. When your house burns to the ground and you have no insurance you do not get a free house. Many many families have health issues and that is what insurance is for. Hope people will take this as a lesson. This family got their minutes of fame. Hope they spend time with their son and I wish him well but needs his family to focus more on his health and not having people over while he is on chemotherapy.
On May 19 of this year, The Colucci Family found out that their 5-yr-old son Nicolas had a large cancerous tumor growing inside his liver. Nicolas needed a surgery ASAP, where they removed 60% of his liver, his gallbladder, part of his diaphragm, and many of his lymph nodes. The Colucci family had bought a family cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line that was scheduled for June 1, 2014. The Colucci’s hadn’t bought the trip insurance. They didn’t buy it because they couldn’t afford it and of course NEVER thought their son would be diagnosed with cancer just WEEKS before they were supposed to travel.
What? Forgive me for noticing, but a tumor that claims a gallbladder, part of a diaphragm, 60% of a liver, and lymph nodes does not develop overnight, and it cannot thrive without a steady nourishment of sugar, and carbs that become sugar once consumed. Didn’t anyone notice that this li’l man was unwell? Let me get this straight. When it was finally noticed that Nicolas was unwell, he needed surgery PRONTO to cut out this tumor and a host of body parts and commence poisoning with chemo. Delaying this for a month would have been life-threatening? Huh? They could afford the cruise, but not the insurance that amounts to less than the cost of a land excursion? This sad story does not speak well for the li’l mama. This poor soul needs a loving mentor, not the media! The child’s health and well-being depends on her, and she needs help, not a field trip!!!
Sounds like someone without a medical degree trying to make an opinion like they have one. How stupid can you be.
Val, what a disgusting person you are, and I hope to god you’re not a mother. If so, then the “poor soul” as you say, isn’t Nicholas, but rather your child(ren). There are tons of people who are already at stage 3 or 4 of their cancer at the time of diagnosis, and had no idea they were sick. You may not be aware, but cancer is a tad bit different than a cold or flu…it can be asympomatic for a long time. So for you to even suggest that Tara is a negligent mother for “not noticing” her child had a tumor (that doctors weren’t looking for either until symptoms presented), as if she didn’t notice her child was bleeding from the head, well…like I said…disgusting.
And implying she’d rather have a “field trip” than care for her son…all she wanted was to give her little boy the trip he had been counting down to on his homemade calendar for months. So not only did he go through a life-threatening illness and the horror of chemo, he also lost the one thing he was looking so forward to more than anything. But yeah, his mom just wanted “a field trip”.
This is why I’m sure you don’t have children. If you did, you’d know what a helpless feeling it is to see your baby sick. Even just to imagine him in the hospital, crying, scared, in pain; to have to place your entire reason for living in the hands of doctors, praying they know what they’re doing, and that he’ll get well. And the immeasurable feeling of relief and joy that knocks you over when you finally see him on the mend, when the doctors tell you that you’re NOT going to lose your baby. And after all that, to hear him ask you, “Mama, when are we going on the big boat??”…yes baby, mama’s gonna get you your big boat trip. After all your little body has been through, mama’s gonna rope the moon if that’s what you want.
So I’m hoping your ignorant post is more a result of you never having been a mother, than being that cold and heartless of a person.
Re: “Didn’t anyone notice that this li’l man was unwell? Let me get this straight. When it was finally noticed that Nicolas was unwell, he needed surgery PRONTO to cut out this tumor and a host of body parts and commence poisoning with chemo. Delaying this for a month would have been life-threatening? Huh?”
Ummmm…. Say what?!?! Do you have ANY experience with people who have been diagnosed with cancer?!?! I have to assume no because that statement makes ZERO sense. One of the reasons cancer is so deadly is that it can remain completely asymptomatic until it progresses to the point of becoming untreatable.
Let’s take an adult case, for example. My own father was diagnosed with Colon Cancer when he was 50 years old. He had no symptoms of any illness. He was just going in for a routine colon cancer screening – you know the tests that they don’t start doing on you routinely until you reach certain ages in adulthood. They found his cancer at that colonoscopy, and he had to have emergency surgery on his colon in order to get the cancer out before it spread. The doctor said if they had waited even just a few more weeks, it likely would have killed him. So… I, for one, consider myself blessed that they found my dad’s completely asymptomatic cancer when they did, but I am also acutely aware of the fact that cancer CAN be a silent killer cancer because it is so good at hiding itself until it’s too late.
Now, think of a child. They don’t run all those cancer screening tests on children, do they? Therefore, if Nicholas wasn’t showing symptoms of illness while the cancer was growing inside of him, how would they know to test for it? Even when he did start showing symptoms, in the ER, they probably ran a whole lot of tests for more likely Illnesses before they even considered a tumor as an option.
My point is that your assumption that Nicholas’ mom was negligent (or whatever you’re trying to imply about her) is just plain ignorant!
Hey Val,
Are you a super human with X-ray vision? Because if you are, you could probably make millions of dollars saving lives. The last thing a pediatrician checks is if a young child has a tumor since it’s fairly unlikely at his age they’ll have one. You pretty much have to rely on symptoms the child tells you about to eventually figure out they have CANCER! It’s pretty lucky for ANYONE of ANY age to catch cancer before they start exhibiting symptoms. So unless your son or daughter has gone through the same thing, keep your mouth shut.
wow. Ur disgusting and clearly not a mother. If you were you wouldn’t even consider making such a claim. Don’t hate cus ur not a lil mama.
you should be ashamed of yourself. Especially if you are a mother yourself… ashamed!!! People like you are disgusting. This family was doing what they thought was right for them at the time, for their family. So many people do not buy trip insurance these days because most of the time it’s a waste. We never anticipate something aweful will happen. everyone is entitled to trying to give their family a wonderful experience and vacation. shame on you for your tasteless comments.
“So many people do not buy trip insurance these days because most of the time it’s a waste. We never anticipate something aweful will happen.”
Apparently you do not understand the concept of insurance. The whole reason for it is to protect you in case those awful things that you do not anticipate actually happen.
Dear Val, it’s quite entertaining that you find it necessary to belittle a mom and tell her she is a bad mom who neglects her child because she didn’t notice her son’s cancer. You sound insane. For real, that is sick.
Someone must have told you that you don’t take care of your own child. People normally self project.
Okay I think I’d safe to assume based on your comment *’Val’ you your self have been through the trauma of watching your kid play perfectly fine one minute and then rushing them into the ER the next, I’m sorry that’s not what any parent should endure. Then you also should know that having a uneducated ‘mom’ judge you in what they think is reality turn out but to be. That’s what no mom also should go through. The media want necessarily her idea either btw since your so up on her business. Also there is a special place in hell for women who degrade other women and you ma’am have your first pick. So what you need to do is shut the fuck up unless you have something nice to say.
What I don’t understand is why Val is just hearing about this now. This is old news and you’re clearly a novice troll if you didn’t find it back when it was all over national news. Bottom line – a) Cancer cannot be detected without medical intervention. B) You don’t know the people involved, so quit making assumptions about what they do or do not feed their child c) Cancer is a disease. Entitlement is not. D) Go back to your bridge, troll!
Supporting Mama – you need to change your name to “Entitled Mama”.
I feel for this family but I also feel that they did not do anything to help themselves. There is
ZERO excuse for not buying the insurance.
Not enough money is not an excuse. Couldn’t afford snow tires for my car….sorry I slid into you.
If you can’t afford something then don’t buy the trip period. The cost to insure this trip as one person mentioned would likely have been less than the shore excursions.
If you can’t be responsible then don’t get involved.
You all should be ashamed – if this was a group of caring people you all would have spent the same energy having bake sales, and fund raising events to get enough money to send the little guy on a cruise. Instead you are all self righteous and spent your energy trying to defend a parent that just should have stood up and said. “I screwed up” I had poor judgement” Anyone that travels with a child should know better. if he was playing soccer and broke his leg and could not go, what would she be crying about now.
They gambled and lost. SUCK IT UP and take care of the little guy.
Should I get rid of my house insurance ? Haven’t used it in 22 years. Should I get rid of my car insurance ? Haven’t needed it for 35 years. Look these people are not stupid, they are gamblers period. Stop pulling the “poor them” card.
In case you don’t think I have compassion, understand this – Every single sick person in this world is a sad story. In my family My wife, my mother and my mother in law are all Breast Cancer Survivors, and my brother is Terminal patient. I can show you a link that will prove I don’t make this up.
I know exactly what they had to go through, every last little bit. I just raised over 4000.00 for Breast Cancer research. I understand the emotional nightmare this disease can be. My wife is my only family, I have no children. so don’t tell me she was not as important to me as this child is to his parents.
Cmon, why why why why do people that are seemingly educated become so damned selfish that they think the rest of the world owes them something when they had an option.
They need to move on with the real problem and not blame anyone else or look for handouts. If they do get a handout it’s a bonus, not an entitlement.
I am so passionate about this because every single month, I see people that were well informed about insurance tell me that they either didn’t want the coverage or thought they had it, only to discover they did not. They were warned, They were offered. Sorry but I understand the family grasping at straws in their grief, but the rest of you blaming the cruiseline is shameful.
Uh, Elliot? To quote you: “if this was a group of caring people you all would have spent the same energy having bake sales, and fund raising events to get enough money to send the little guy on a cruise. Instead you are all self righteous and spent your energy trying to defend a parent that just should have stood up and said. “I screwed up” I had poor judgement.”…
Can I ask just how you know exactly what we “spent our energy” on aside from defending Tara online? How do you know we haven’t supported her and her family in other ways? I’d like to know who you’ve been talking to, because I’ve seen the women in this group supporting the Colucci family in EVERY form. So I’m interested to know who’s been so grossly misinforming you.
…I’m also kind of wondering why you’re surfing the message boards of a site called “Lil Mamas”.
Elliot, don’t worry. We got her and her little boy everything they need. We are mamas. We multitask. We can defend and support one of our own while we go to work to rectify a bullshit situation. And we don’t need a bake sale for that.
Elliott, You are just as despicable as Val. To compare cancer to breaking a leg is unbelievable. Just because you have family with cancer doesn’t give you the right to judge other people who went about it differently than you. Congratulations for raising money for breast cancer. I bet anyone who donated to you would take it back after reading your arrogant, shameful post condemning an innocent little boy and his mother. You are no better than they are. Cruise insurance is a scam and it’s rarely used, most people do not buy into it. You should consider how your words make others feel. You have no reason or right to comment on the support others give Tara and Nicholas.
I doubt I will change your mind. I stand by what I said and the point will never get to anyone that is entitled. I chose to do the responsible thing and purchase insurance. They did not. Stop whining. This is not about the poor child. This is about the parents that made a wrong decision and are BLAMING the wrong people. If the cruiseline did something it would be nice, if they don’t they should not be held responsible in any way.
You throw in 50.00 bucks and I will to, We will have the first 100.00 to start the trip for the little guy – are you in ?
“This poor soul needs a loving mentor, not the media! The child’s health and well-being depends on her, and she needs help,” Interesting how this comment was perceived as a personal attack and subject to judgmental outbursts and defensive emotional attack. Since the rest of you appear to be in the United States, Happy Thankagiving!
The Truth About Cancer
Hey there Val,
It’s Thanksgiving here in the States and I just wanted to take
a minute to express my gratitude to you.
Thank you for being a part of our mission.
Thank you for standing for something greater than yourself.
Thank you for just being you.
Thank you!
Thanks again and enjoy this special day.
Ty Bollinger
PS. For the next 5 days we wanted to show our gratitude to
you by rebroadcasting all 11 episodes absolutely free.
After watching the game, consider gathering your family together
and spending some quality time learning how to easily live a healthy
cancer-free life.
I think they’ll love it 🙂
Go here to watch all 11 episodes.
http://thetruthaboutcancer.com/live/replay.php
This is not a current post. This situation has been rectified and the little boy is doing well. Which not one of you “non-entitled” creeps even asked. Go move on to another topic now.
That is terrific news about the child. I sincerely hope that his healing holds up to and beyond the point at which he, too, can enjoy the parenthood experience. If indeed NCL rectified this situation, would it have not been appropriate to call attention to that as readily as your outrage with their adherence to their stated policy? A public statement of gratitude to them for bending their stated policy and going over and above what was contracted would have been the respectable move, and would not have caused infringement on your short attention span.
Thank you for the invitation to join you in a new topic, however I will be offline while cruising the Mediterranean for a couple of weeks, and when my holiday comes to an end, I will be otherwise occupied, so it is necessary for me to politely decline.
Val, since you seem to be pretty clueless, let me set the record straight for you. Please re-read. It said “situation has been rectified”. Nowhere did it read that the situation was rectified by NCL. Thanks for being presumptuous and self-righteous, though. We could all learn a few things from you. Happy Holidays, and hope you find something better to do with your time, besides internet trolling.
I stumbled onto this site barely by accident.I am a male,an ex-merchant marine officer…I was speechless when I read the tragic story of that little cute boy suffering from cancer and battling the sickness!I pray this little boy to survive and beat the illness!But I was also astonished by the heartless behaviour of NCL!
In this respect I’d like to explain to all those who don’t have a close look at the maritime industry…
As I said above,I am an ex-Deck Officer with 17 years sea service on ships,both cruise(passsenger) and cargo ships.I can tell you that it is not about NCL or any other cruise company!It is common for all of them!Both cruise and cargo shipping companies!The maritime industry is the only place where the 21st century has not come yet!The real chronological time is somewhere in the Middle Ages,probably in the 12-13th century!
As a whole the maritime industry is in decline,every single year it goes down and down!The last real men and seamen died on the Titanic more than 100 years ago!Nowadays the crews are being literally taken from the middle of the streets!That is the corporate policy of all shipping companies-low cost and low wages for all those engaged in the shipping industry and great profits for the shipowners!That is why the crews are hired from the so called third world or ex-East European countries!The shipowners’ greed is huge,it is beyond any description!
Meanwhile on board all ships reigns a spirit of mistrust beetween the cremembers,everyone spies the other,the slandering and bootlicking are something normal…And it is widely encouraged by the companies.That’s is the way to keep the crewmembers in obedience along it their low wages!
The key word on board is FEAR!The fear not to lose your miserable wages,your miserable job!In order to retain their jobs the crewmembers report each other to their superiors even for inconsiderable matters!By being an informer,gossipmonger,bootlicker and a creep it is fully guaranteed your further professional andvancement and promotion!That is why the professionalism on ships is low!Professionalists on board are simply not welcome!That is why the safety on ships and customers service is at low level!It is customary practice to hire illiterate and uneducated crewmembers without speaking any foreign languages often with fake certificates of competence!Things like job-interviews,references,pre-join screening and etc. are just mumbo-jumbo…!It is more important the low costs and the profits!The low cost is one of the reasons why the most ships are under the flags of convenience!
Besides the low wages,terrible food,awfull living conditions for the crew on board,the crewmembers themselves have zero rights!Every crewmember from the officer to the cleaner may be fired from job at any time!Without any particular reason or preliminary notice!If someone of the crew is not sympathetic enough to someone of the bosses on board or is not good bootlicker,he/or she may also be fired!Such things as social or health insurance of the crewmembers is completely unknown!Pension funds/retirement programmes does not exist at all!
What about the semans’ trade unions?They have mainly decorative and representative functions-they will never help you or protect you!They will never stand up for your rights!Along with the authorities and the governments around the world they play in the same gang with the shipowners!They always play in their favour…!
Regarding the managers at the corporate offices…Especially the so called Crewing Departments and Human Resources Departments.Those departments are more or less ruled by idiots-they have no idea of the real life and work at sea!They have never served on board any ship and as a rule they have no maritime education or training!It is very common for them to approve for a job an applicant who is pure idiot,but when a real professionalist comes to them,they neglect him and usually do not hire him!
How about the big bosses and directors at the companies’ headquarters!They usually have no hearts,they have stones instead of hearts!Their only thought is the greed!The greed for more and more money and profits!Such things as compassion,humanity,sympathy,mercy and etc. are absolutely unkown to them!
We may say in conclusion that all above mentioned is not the biggest problem!The biggest problem is that no God!The God does not exist!Have you ever heard that someone of the owners,directors or high ranking managers of all those shipping companies being punished by Gods’ vengeance?No of course!All of them are living happily in luxury and they never knew what is to have problems,what is to have no money or job…
Awesome post. Some really good points in there. Keep up the good work
I like what you guys are up too. Such clever work and exposure!
Keep up the amazing works guys I’ve added you guys to my own blogroll.