Celebrity Cruises is making changes to its all-inclusive program, which will now exclude gratuities. The changes also affect Celebrity’s AquaClass cabins and the all-suite The Retreat.

The upcoming changes have raised concerns among cruisers, who feel the move veers away from Celebrity’s premium product. Other soft changes to the cruise line’s offerings coupled with a few onboard experiments, have courted controversy in recent weeks.

• Notable changes to the all-inclusive program:
  • Gratuities will be excluded.
  • The Premium drink package and Premium Wi-Fi will be included in the all-inclusive package for suites in The Retreat.
  • The $200 per person onboard credit benefit will be removed for suites in The Retreat.
  • Sky Suites in The Retreat will no longer have individual butlers.
  • Celebrity ships will start including Perfect Day at CocoCay in select itineraries.

The changes to the all-inclusive program are the most controversial, as many cruisers feel that it represents a step down from Celebrity’s premium offerings. However, the cruise line has defended the changes, saying that they are necessary to keep prices competitive.

It remains to be seen how the changes will be received by cruisers. Some may be willing to accept the changes in order to save money, while others may be disappointed with the loss of certain amenities. Only time will tell how these changes will impact Celebrity Cruises.