Does anyone have experience with bidding for a cabin upgrade?

I just received an email to bid on an upgrade on my upcoming cruise on MSC, we haven't decided yet. If we decide to bid it will probably be a low bid just to see how it all work. The email also stated that you will not know if you received the upgrade until 48 hours before your cruise.

This subject came up on ROSTERS of all places about 3-4 cruises back for me.. I'll repeat the short version of my response. Some how folks think they're getting a big bargain, or something for almost nothing. It CAN happen. But experienced cruisers do it with their eyes wide open...and yes, that fine print as to the actual cabin, or location isn't up to you. And a poor cabin choice, even a more expensive one can ruin the cruising experience. Some folks simply don't care. Ive met several serious cruisers over the years who book an inside and think anything else is a waste of money. Others insist on higher is better, and so on. Be careful, when the cruise lines are offering bargains. What they're doing is calculated to their advantage..which isn't the same thing as yours. What you lose may far exceed what you may gain. We book as early as we can, often for a few years in advance. We pick our cabin VERY carefully, along with anything else we care to reserve. They could offer me the Presidential Suite for a buck three eighty more, and the chances are Id not take it.

Royal has been doing this for several years now. I have gotten the email to upgrade several times but have never bid on one. I've seen bids on suites that range from $750 to $1700 PP. A bit rich for my blood but I guess some people do bid. I usually stay put.

Never knew such a thing existed.

Far as I knew it was only Norwegian that was doing that. And I have not done so but have spoke to some that did try and it is a bit of a crap shoot as they list open cabins above yours and you bid or state how much more you are willing to pay for that. Depending on the competition for the cabin you can get an upgrade for from $1 to $1000.

There is also some fine print on benefit availability such as loyalty rewards based on the original cabin purchase and not on the upgraded cabin.