[Golfer222]

Originally Posted by ThirdOfFive

We always use the "automatic" approach: 14% (last RCCL cruise, anyway) added to our bill.

But we also tip extra for "above and beyond". RCCL has "my time dining" option in their main dining room which means (usually) the same waiter and assistant for dinner each night. For a longer cruise (8 days plus) we tip $50 for the waiter, a bit less for the assistant, always in an envelope with the crew member's name, and hand-delivered. Same for the cabin steward. I've also found that a supply of $2 bills given to the bartender as a tip (not supposed to, I know, but they've never turned one down) ensures prompt service AND generous pours.

We always try to get to know our service people by name, and to show a personal interest in them and their lives. All too often cruise customers neglect this: they may pay bottom dollar for an inside cabin on the third deck and then expect to be treated like Caledon Hockley on the Titanic, and when they're not they can turn into absolute martinets insofar as how they deal with crew members.

Lastly: RCCL encourages passengers to fill out feedback forms on their staff people, and these mean a lot: they do get read by the higher-ups and good reviews can lead to promotions, raises, etc. Bad ones can lead to demotion or termination. I've always lived by "if you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all". I WILL speak to someone's supervisor for shoddy or otherwise lacking service.

Shouldn't ALL passengers be treated like Caledon Hockley regardless of their room rate