Several things, Pete. As you mentioned, it looks like the ship becomes the destination, not the ports. Both RCL and NCL are pushing the all encompassing ship experience rather than the places that the ship goes. Heck, I think some people will not care and some will not even know when the ship reaches a port. they are having too good a time on board the vessel.
Second, look at the "excitement" and "wow" facors. The ships are pushing the extravaganza rather than letting people find thier own fun.
Third, since when has an inside cabin had appeal? NCL is very definitely pushing the co-op social environment with some of their rooms. You don't even know you are at sea since you are so well cocooned.
We shall see how the mega-mega ships do. I hope they do well since then the more intersting destinations and the people who have the same concept of cruising that I do will be able to sail in peace without the party types spoiling our fun! 
EDIT: Sorry PE, I got a bit heavy handed with my typing and the fingers just went where they wanted to go. Sorry I did not catch it but by spell checker let Pete go by...... |