Thread: Oasis of the Seas prices softening, Find value on Freedom class ships

Majestic Research analyst Matthew Jacob issued an interesting report about the possibility of price softening of fares aboard Oasis of the Seas, which has up to this point, seen a distinct overage in price above and beyond that of their regular fleet. In fact, some prices differences are still as high as 104% over a similar berth on another Royal Caribbean ship.

Jacob asserts that the OTS is possibly self-cannibalizing their own fleet by forcing down premiums on other Freedom class ships, as well as other brands owned by RCI.

Jacob says that, excluding Oasis, Royal Caribbean's net yields -- a measure of the amount of money it brings in per cabin -- actually could be down in the first quarter as the "halo effect" from Oasis that many industry watchers were expecting has not materialized.

What does this all mean and why am I writing about it? Want a great value for a cruise?

Seriously take a look into the Royal Caribbean's three Freedom class ships, who have seen fares plummet more than 25% since third quarter of 2009.

Well, if you are free in 9 days, you can get a pretty good deal on the Freedom of the Seas.

My February Freedom OTS cruise hasn't gone down in price, but they have been offering some good residency discounts for states other than Florida.

Hang in there, Char.
sometimes the FL resident rates are later in coming

And this is just the first of the two behemoths!

I'm on the Independence in March and the price is double from when I booked.

Wow! Aren't you glad you booked when you did?

Yes I am glad I booked. In fact I blocked a bunch of cabins so I am still on old fare with on board credit but they are going to be pulling my inventory soon.

Originally Posted by patsea

Yes I am glad I booked. In fact I blocked a bunch of cabins so I am still on old fare with on board credit but they are going to be pulling my inventory soon.

Pat,

So, are you saying your Independence voyage has increased in price since March?

I don't know how or why there is so much price fluctuation....especially in an upward direction. I guess it doesn't really support my hypothesis, but ewe may see some negative price fluctuation on Freedom class ships soon, when the OTS fervor runs out a little.

I have noticed that for sailings next fall, the Liberty is less than the Freedom on virtually the same itineraries.

It will be interesting to see how the pricing plays out as the economy improves.