Others have now joined the argument over this scheme, including Arthur Frommer...

Cruise Critic's message board scandal casts further doubt on user-generated websites on Arthur Frommer Online

Another view of the scheme is shared here...

Viral Marketing And The Wisdom Of Crowds - Jeanne Leblanc | Coach Class

Seems to me that the vast majority of cruise lines, consumer groups and cruise media have all come down with one opinion....RCI behaved very badly and made a lousy choice of PR methodology, CC has also been singled out for quite considerable criticism - some understandable & justified. Having seen the views of members here and on other cruise boards, it looks like many of the public who use the boards also feel that RCI have undermined their trust and integrity of boards in general.

It has certainly caused many to take a sharp intake of breath right across the cruise industry...both the providers, agents, media and guests (past, present & future).