Guaranteed outside cabin (GOC)

#1 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 03:28 AM

How does this work, when I tried to book a cabin I was informed that there was only 2 outside cabins left, and these were not in very good locations, however I was then offered a GOC �200 cheaper.

My logic tells me we could not be any worse off, or could we ?

Do they overbook and rely on people cancelling cruises ?

If so could we get bumped off in the end ?

Has anybody a explanation or experience of this.

#2 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 11:27 AM

We have never been bumped when we did a guaranty cabin. I don't know how it works, but the word around here is book what you would be happy with and if you get better be happy. You might end up with those particular cabins or if someone else with a higher guaranty gets moved up, you might get their room.............

#3 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 11:39 AM

That's what happened with us, we booked an ocean view guarantee...riveria deck, ended up ocean view upper deck. 2 floor higher. We were told, if you book a guarantee, the people behind you that book the same floor will bump you up to a higher floor. Bumped up not off. I could be wrong but thats how it worked for us. Good Luck and Happy Cruising!!

Harry Martin · #4 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 11:58 AM

Have never had a problem with the guarantee ... I would do that rather than take the two inferior locations left. I'm thinking those will be taken by someone being upgraded from an inside.

Harry

Kuki · #5 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 12:50 PM

If you booked an Ocean View guarantee it means you are guaranteed an ocean view cabin as a very minimum. It allows the cruise line to place you in ANY ocean view cabin on the ship, therefore giving them some flexibility.

If they don't have an Ocean View cabin available they could upgrade you to a higher category cabin.... or they could upgrade someone else, and give you that outside cabin.

You give the cruise line flexibility, and that's why they offer this option at a lower price.

nolou525 · #6 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 01:47 PM

Is it better than to book a guarantee cabin if you're not to fussy about what deck you're on? I get alittle confused about the whole procedure. Thanks.

phillygirl · #7 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 03:47 PM

If you think you want a specific cabin, deck or location I would suggest you just pay the extra money and choose a cabin on your own. With a guarantee, you could end up any where on the ship. I did a guarantee one time and did not get any higher a catagory than I could have. I now pick my cabin. To me, its all about location. Whats above me, below me, next to me and how high or low I am on the decks.

Donna · #8 (**permalink**) March 24th, 2005, 04:30 PM

Hi John,
Yes, you will at least get that catagory, and possibly better. Here is a link to an article that explains the guarantee booking process:

Booking a Guarantee cabin

You must always book a catagory that you'd be happy with, in most cases thats what you will get, but at least no lower either. Best of luck, let us know what you do get assigned.

#9 (**permalink**) March 26th, 2005, 03:56 AM

I already have my cabin number I booked with a singles group so I don't know what kind of booking it was guarantee or not, I the choices were just inside, outside or balcony. I have recieved a cabin number does this mean I won't get an upgrade or it's still possible?

MaryLou · #10 (**permalink**) March 26th, 2005, 05:56 AM

windycity, if you already have a cabin number, from my past experience, I would say your odds are slim for an upgrade.

#11 (**permalink**) March 26th, 2005, 02:04 PM

MaryLou, I'll be anxious to read your thought on the Oosterdam. Am thinking of booking that ship for Mexico next spring.

showcat · #12 (**permalink**) March 27th, 2005, 05:22 AM

Just wondering Mari Lou, thanks. If by some miracle I get one I will post it here.

Danielle (Dani) · #13 (**permalink**) March 28th, 2005, 06:58 PM

Hello,

I am booked for a Cat. E Outside (Guaranty), I was wondering if that means I have a chance of getting a porthole or partially/fully obstructed view? I so hope not, but will roll with it since this is my first cruise. This is for HAL Zuiderdam.

Thank you for any help.

Dani

#14 (**permalink**) March 31st, 2005, 12:54 PM

I agree with what philly girl has to say.There is also another situation that can happen with a guarantee room.You may end up with a room that has twin beds that can not be converted into a double bed.

LisaK · #15 (**permalink**) April 1st, 2005, 10:05 AM

Dani, since you booked a guarantee - if there are cabins in your catagory that just have a port hole or some that have obstructed views, it is totally possible that you could get those cabins.

Danielle (Dani) · #16 (**permalink**) April 2nd, 2005, 04:22 PM

Thanks Lisa.

Danielle (Dani) · #17 (**permalink**) April 4th, 2005, 10:09 PM

Hi Lisa,

Just spoke with my TA and she said there was no way I would get any kind of obstructed view in my category and on this ship. I admit I am thankful as I have....claustiphobia! But I love the water and it feels big to me so it doesn't matter how small the cabin is, as long as I can see outside the box!

Thanks for your help.

Dani