A bad experience? I don't know, Bangor to Dublin would probably take about 5 1/2 hours or so. If I could do it for under $150, I would be thrilled to do so on WN.
As far as perks, I have never had to wait calling the WN reservations number on the back of the FF card. NEVER HAD TO WAIT, always answered on the first call. DL PM desk is good, but not as good as this. This is one of the best perks out there! And, yes, the companion pass is easy to get and great!