Originally Posted by
Retirement Rules
I'm fairly new to cruising and loving it. My question is, if the art sales on board are such a scam and overpriced, how is it that they are still allowed to operate? Wouldn't the cruise lines be concerned about the impact on their reputation, by having shoddy dealers onboard?
Welcome to Flyertalk!
On my last cruise, I popped over to the art auction, and one of the salespersons knelt down by me and engaged in small talk. He asked if I could read his mind, to which I replied "Yes, you are hoping to make a big commission." He laughed in a good-natured way, and I left as the auction was over.
In response to your question about how these operations are allowed to operate: They provide a significant revenue stream for the cruise lines. Simple. And, some people seem destined to part with their money on vacations, be it through art auctions or the purchase of jewelry or expensive watches. It is all part of the "special" quality of a vacation experience for some.