NO MORE FREE DINING ON CARNIVAL

[@MovieRelated]

I like the way Europe does it. The price you see is the price you pay. I don't care about the breakdown. Maybe there are port fees and gratuities and taxes and a new hat for the captain.... I don't care. Tell me the dollar amount you want me to pay and I will decide to purchase or not. If the cruise line wants to give bonuses to the workers based on performance or whatever else, that is up to them, not the passengers. Tipping is emotional extortion.

[@ursulasmith6402]

It's called VAT, vocational additive tax. We need this here.

[@whimsy-chan1188]

Same for most cuises booked from Australian websites. They're not my employees, pay them fair and tell me the full price based on your cost and I'll decide if I'm good to pay or not.

[@travelwithdands]

@@ursulasmith6402 Value Added Tax is what VAT is commonly called.

[@garyjarvis2730]

Cruise lines need to pay fair living wages and stop the gratuities game. Carnival is moving in the wrong direction with charging for everything as an extra. They want to list the lowest fare possible to suck you in and then squeeze you dry at every opportunity. Just post all included fares and be done with the BS.

[@Shazzadut1]

Agree. Drinks packages. Entertainment on board, dining. It’s now just a rip off. As you say, get em on board and fleece em.

[@thebraz21]

That’s why i zero them out every time im sorry us a scam and i won’t pay i tip very well and the laundry people should be getting paid fair wage but not guilting us into forced gratuities

[@JesterJ920]

Just like Ryan Air

[@sirthomas4637]

Tipping has gotten out of hand everywhere even in fast food and you have to bus your own tables. Tips were designed for quality service not mandatory.

[@trishasfh8842]

If they did that people would say it was too expensive. If it is 50.00 here 20.00 there people are more excepting. Most don't even realize until the credit card bill comes. Then it is a shock.

[@TWSmith42]

Get rid of tips, raise the pay of cruise staff, and raise prices to accommodate the money lost from tips. The European approach to pricing and tipping is the way to go.

[@Yu_Yevon]

I remove auto-gratuities every cruise because I don't agree with it. I tip cash in hand for exemplary service, which is what a tip actually is. What I choose to tip is no business of the cruiseline. Tipping should be extra; auto-gratiuties are nothing more than payroll subsidization for the cruise line.

[@wendyhubbard3109]

Sadly, it’s my understanding that the workers have to report cash tips and give it to the pool.

[@brucecallahan3580]

the tips go to people who help and serve you but you do not interact with like production staff, kitchen workers, maintenance workers etc.

[@stacysmith4350]

Either way they will get BEFORE OR AFTER THE CRUISE

[@pinksnoopydancer]

@@brucecallahan3580i know but, should their salaries be paid by their employer? The reason for tipping is not to support all but to express gratitude to interacting service workers.

[@burningblue1254]

​@@wendyhubbard3109on my cruise line cash tips are the property of the recipient. If you tip room service on the receipt, it's pooled. If it's cash, it's the recipients.

[@Thethinker6141]

The cruise ship should pay its workers more. I feel like we shouldn't have to subsidize a cruise company.

[@darontrevascus3547]

Id rather the multi billion dollar cruise line pay their staff a fair wage rather than relying on passengers to tip them.

[@nickpacaccio8540]

@@darontrevascus3547 well said...I agree...the lines are trying to turn it into a guilt trip on cruisers!!!

[@andreallen6480]

💯💯💯💯 Agree

[@burningblue1254]

Interesting comments. As I work for a cruise line I should point out that crew get free room and board and medical on the ship. As well, there are no deducions except US citizens. Payment in US dollars. We often pay triple what they would make in the Philippines for example. Positions like wait staff and cabin attendants can make $200 a week in cash tips. Also great opportunities for advancement. One of our senior housekeeping supervisors for example is from the Philippines, which is a 3 stripe officer. Tax free. and free room and board. She lives very very very well.

[@Whatsupeiththestupidhandlebs]

@@burningblue1254 you can say the same about the U.S. military. The pay is awful but they don’t have to pay for rent, food, medical etc. unless they choose to.

[@TheJm129]

There is no free dining on any cruise ship, there is included dining and levels of specialty dining.

[@bodyloverz30]

Carnival charges for "Room Service," thus Carnival can afford to pay for their own "back of house gratuity!"

[@bernadettelawson2916]

I think Virgin have got it right. Everything is included in the fare, little to no nickel and diming and none of the fuss about tipping/gratuities. The cruise prices are more, but I’m more than happy to pay that because it often ends up costing the same anyway.

[@jamesbell7696]

I haven't cruised with Virgin yet, but my friends have, and they confirm what you say. The overall cost of the vacation on Virgin ends up comparable to Royal or NCL even though the initial fare might appear to be higher. Plus, NO KIDS.

[@rblake1]

I would like to see the cruise lines change the terms tipping/gratuities to service charge and include them in the cruise fare.

[@Plum_bird]

Why do you even need tips for a cruise anyway? Pay the employees a fair wage! If I want to give extra above that then great. Tipping should not be customary, why is the US like this anyway?

[@paulbunion6233]

Tipping is subsidising the wages of the employees under a different name. My question is, if the cruise line calls it gratuites, on their books is that revenue and taxed as such OR is it NOT reported as revenue and therefor circumvents taxes and reporting as profit and not getting to stockholders. There is much more to this than "tipping your cabin steward"

[@burningblue1254]

Tips are added to the employees pay and is not revenue. Just like on land. Cash tips are self reporting. Only US citizens have deductions taken off. Other nationalities are subject to their countries for self reporting. For US based cruise lines. .

[@paulbunion6233]

@@burningblue1254 exploitation of a loophole to hide income and revenue from the tax man and shareholders. Extortion of money from passengers as it is NOT tips but compulsory payments. Enforced gratuities and "tips" are mutually exclusive terms. Using "enforced gratuities" is an accounting shell game that will likely be examined by the relevant governments

[@PatWalsh-l8y]

First, maybe if the cruise lines paid their employees a decent wage they wouldn’t need to rely so much on tips. Secondly, cruise fares are through the roof. Wouldn’t it be nice to not nickel and dime people on food options. 49 dollars a person for specialty dining is only reasonable when I’m not paying 2k pp to be on the ship.

[@MasterSumai]

@@PatWalsh-l8y AGREED 100%

[@airmanma]

@@PatWalsh-l8y Really??? ON NCL i paid $6.00 for my meal and the best steak I ever had in my life at Cagney's. Still think about that to this day.

[@beekeepermariadelgado6806]

Exactly, that’s why they are registered in other countries to get away with not being held accountable for employees. They take advantage of third world employees and then cruise ships go to third world countries. Poverty all over. No biggie! They do not pay well and know these people are desperate.

[@livestotravel7589]

Bravo! Why I won’t cruise. I only do all inclusive. Had a bad experience on RC .

[@lewisbyrd7547]

I’m sorry but everything is way more money than it was pre Covid . The cruise line needs to make a profit, that’s only fair. I bet you get more money for whatever your job is. What I do agree with you is nickel & dimming , I much rather pay a little extra for tips & other extras. An NO I have never ever removed money from the amount that’s been deducted, people please think about the staff that work from before sunrise until after sunset with NO break have some come compassion most of the labours fluffing our pillows and cleaning the shower yet again probably have more to do before bed & who knows what overflowing toilets & halls he/she will have to do. SO THINK ABOUT THESE PEOPLE THAT LEAVE THEIR FAMILIES FOR 1/2 yr at a pop or longer while we are sipping pina coladas by the pool. Be a sport a give a generous tip…….you can do it

[@cbi-ju5mi]

The tipping culture has gone overboard, especially after the pandemic. During the pandemic, I was ordering takeout and I was tipping because it was my way of thanking the staff for working during the pandemic. Now, practically everyone has got their hand out for tips. Industries that never had tipping are now jumping on board😢.

[@emmamcdonald7924]

Yes yes it’s crazy!!! Tips for picking up your food or tips when you just buy food at a fast food restaurant. Service is not what it used be either.

[@wesmuntz8797]

Having served abroad, it is interesting how tipping is very culture oriented. There are places where leaving a tip is considered an insult. Go figure.

[@coastbob1]

I tip my hat when leaving

[@danscheid6031]

I dislike our tip culture I would rather have as part of the price and raise the pay on the crew so they get it

[@nickpacaccio8540]

Pay your employees from the cost of what you charge for the cruise...tipping should always remain with the customer WITHOUT BEING PUT ON A GUILT TRIP!!! Cruise lines didn't have a problem jacking the costs of cruises after the pandemic....did they ??? If they didn't include the employees salaries in the "new prices"...don't put cruisers on a guilt trip...we are already charged for their employees in the cruise fare....more B/S to put a guilt trip on cruisers....and that's why I haven't cruised since then....the lines didn't have a problem jacking cruise prices...if they left their employees out of the new pricing they're currently charging to cruise...that's on them...tip if ya like the service but don't tell me you're not paying the cooks, room attendants and others a fair wage, cause if ya not...its between you, cruise line and you, employee to agree on a fair wage...tipping is a personal choice and should never be a GUILT TRIP to a consumer.... 'Nough said!!!

[@lorimasterson8427]

I don't agree.

[@dianeadams6713]

Princess charges the $200 deposit non-refundable. Becomes OBC once onboard. No problem.

[@johnhunady3526]

Yes, we have been cruising on this deal the last 2 years but the $200.00 is non-refundable if you cancel no matter what. We got the money back as credit on our folio once we boarded.

[@neilhadley4722]

When booking in Australia the gratuities are part of the fare. By law all taxes, port fees, gratuities etc have to be in the advertised price. We also give a little more to staff that go out of the way.

[@caddothegreat]

I was on an NCL ship about 2017. I was talking with drink server I had seen before on another NCL ship. He brought up the pre-paid grats. He told me they do not automatically get that pre-paid grat. It is determined by NCL per cruise on how much they kick back.

[@linhaton4957]

Thought so. I like to tip cash in person.

[@nickpacaccio8540]

@@caddothegreat Well...didn't know that one...thanks for sharing 👍🏻

[@beekeepermariadelgado6806]

@@linhaton4957 me too, it reminds me of when the owner of a restaurant taking waitress tips. Illegal as hell here in the states but since they are not registered in the USA ETC. Cruise line can take the tips without question.

[@choco.es.unlimited]

They don't get the gratitudes, it's a scam. Then these influences know that they do not get it either. It's disingenuous

[@Jbaxter736]

I personally think more cruise lines should do tips and service charges like P&O Cruises UK. when it is included in the fair for the cruise.

[@julianigoe1291]

Same here in Australia mate. Not our culture either.

[@nickpacaccio8540]

@@Jbaxter736 it is included when each person in the room is charged a daily amount per person for the room attendant and rest of crew. This is in addition to the cruise fare....so now they put the guilt trip on cruisers saying...how bout tipping extra to the bar tender, the restaurant crew, the person making your latte, the people walking the deck fulfilling a delivered drink order...just what the hell are the upfront per day charges for then if the crew isn't getting it ? Cruise lines are slick when it comes to pricing and every way they can squeeze you, they just add another category, take away something they weren't barging for and then....put the cruiser on a guilt trip about the crews pay...so ya know...start tipping more and don't worry...we'll collect it and distribute it...yeah...right... Take the feel bad guilt off cruisers and pay your damn employees justly!!!

[@marthagrant143]

I feel Royal has every right to put a policy in place for last minute cancellations and no shows. It is reasonable to expect that from passengers.

[@anitaclue9868]

ABSOLUTELY!!!

[@patriciajones9891]

I agree they should charge the $200. That's not wright they cancel at the last minute .

[@floridaFla]

It should be a policy put in place eff the date of the policy, for all cruisers forward. not sent out at last minute.

[@pattygibson2956]

They want me to pay 2 thousand to change the 2nd name on my 3, 2025 cruise. This is robbery. I will go solo and cruise alone.

[@julie2673]

It blows my mind that when I first started watching cruise videos, it seemed like an amazing way to vacation. In just four years it no longer seems like something I’d want to do.

[@IrvingtonArms]

I'm curios why it doesn't seem like something you'd want to do?

[@cactusjackNV]

@@IrvingtonArms In summary, it's no longer the value it used to be on most cruise lines.

[@mike-yo8qj]

Agreed. What gets me about charging for all of these specialty dining restaurants, the value is generally awful. You pay way more at specialty dining restaurants than you do on land, and you save the cruise line monies by not eating at the MDR or buffet.

[@Mel-p9o]

Tell me where you can travel, stay and eat and visit different places for 100.00 or less a day?

[@lindaandrews5468]

@@mike-yo8qj I think all the food is coming out of the same kitchen. Did a specialty restaurant on a RC cruise it was awful. The steak was so tough I should of just gotten a hamburger.

[@kathyvandeest8601]

It is time to include the tips in the cruise price. It is part of the cruise. Pay employees a decent wage. If you want to tip additionally that is up to you.

[@paconrail1238]

Exactly

[@yms1974]

whether or not you up the cruise price to include tips and don't charge them separate then up the wage instead of giving the money as "tips" it all equals out the same. just pay the tip and if you feel someone should get extra personally give the extra to that person. we have tipped both our room attendant and head waiter extra, bartenders automatically get extra tips on each drink order. people seem to forget all the extra things staff get such as food, accommodation, and should the cruiseline say ok I am gonna pay you x amount more but you now have to pay a room and board fee. If they didn't agree to the pay they can work elsewhere.

[@indivijewelthoughtz1150]

and this is one reason i like virgin. no one is rubbing their fingers and lingering waiting for a tip. those employees are more authentic and inspired to do a great job bc their employer compensates them very well. we tip regardless, but any prepaid charges will continue to be removed if i sail another line.

[@autobotdiva9268]

Yiu can. Clearly youve never cruised

[@lanedaw811]

1000% agree

[@Whatsupeiththestupidhandlebs]

I rarely tip when I go out to eat because it’s not my responsibility to supplement the pay of someone who willingly, or out of lack of skills, education or work ethic takes a job that doesn’t pay them enough. But when we go on a cruise I never hesitate to pay the gratuities up front. If I could get the same dedication and exceptional service on land as I do on a cruise ship it might be different. One trip we had a cabin steward named Jomar. From day one he was spectacular. My wife and I were in Cozumel walking through the large crowd and he recognized us and came over and called us by name. He was on his free time and wanted to make sure we were having a good time or if we needed anything. He was amazing. That I gladly pay gratuities for and we even gave him extra cash the last night.

[@burningblue1254]

Wait staff and cabin attendant positions are highly sought after. They are the best of the best. Even moreso suite cabin attendants.

[@aussiejohn5835]

All cruise lines include gratuities in the cruise fare when sailing in Australia and New Zealand with individual tipping to cabin attendant and dining room staff being optional based on good service. Bar prices have an option for an individual tip, but it isn't mandatory.

[@4kboodle]

I have never even considered removing my tips on any of my thirty cruises. No one works harder than cruise staff! I also tip my steward, my waiter and assistant waiter on top of the deducted tips.

[@paving58]

They are charging 3 times the price of the cruises compere to two years ago they can pay the workers more .

[@ferretrunner09]

What is the increased cost for the cruise companies? Things are a lot more expensive to purchase than two years ago. I’m sure the cruise lines are increasing prices more than inflation but inflation still figures in to the amount they’re increasing.

[@burningblue1254]

​@@ferretrunner09Do you realize that for 2 years the cruise lines made no money? $850.million dollar ships anchored and the cruise lines still have the ship in cold or warm lay up. Like maintaining a vacant apartment. You still have to maintain mechanical.components and have crew onboard. Ships are sailing full now so prices are up. Thats the free market system.

[@WiredForFlight]

I really like how Virgin Voyages does not do tipping. I wish all cruise lines would go this way.

[@valerierubendall9474]

You should be able to decide whether you want to tip them or not. I don't think the carnival should tell you that you need to tip them. They should be paid good for their things. And if you want to tip on me should be able to say yes or no. 2:12

[@glynscourfield-thomas2765]

I have never withdrawn the gratuity and I think it is incredibly mean of people who do!! I also tip per drink and the room steward. They all work incredibly hard for long hours and long tours and most of us enjoying their effort also earn far more than these workers ever will

[@SmokeEater7]

Yes, tipping should be included in the price of the cruise. People who want to tip more to individuals can still do so. Which me and my wife do.

[@scott.macdowell3139]

@@SmokeEater7 if tipping was included in the price.. then they can't call it tipping

[@leslieoconnell2051]

Include what is now gratuities into the cruise fare. Then we can still tip as we normally do

[@nickpacaccio8540]

@@SmokeEater7 well said all!!!

[@thiawroane]

@@scott.macdowell3139 If "tipping" isn't voluntary, they can't call it tipping either!

[@clinpsydoc]

@@scott.macdowell3139 Call it what pleases you. Tipping even if front-loaded provides incentive to perform a function satisfactorily. If not, I know what it is like to work-to-rule that is performing to minimum requirements. No one ends up satisfied.

[@BeCreativewithTerryJeanette]

We've never removed tips, and sometimes we pay extra....depending on the service.

[@jkconner9636]

You describe a service charge…tip is meant for the person who provides personal service.

[@waamp6984]

I agree if tips go to people I never see or have never used then it’s not a tip it’s a fee.

[@thestooges333]

A tip is for somebody that goes above and beyond the call of duty not for doing their job.

[@douggabrielson9734]

@@waamp6984I agree. We seldom use most of the services the ship offers, we usually cruise for a lot of peace and quiet. We don’t drink, we occasionally eat at the MDR, never use the pools, no room service and don’t care for the shows and entertainment. So in our case why are we asked to pay tip on services that we never use or to subsidize other passengers services? We don’t even know who receives what. We usually don’t remove the gratuities unless the service is real bad, we’ll tip the steward separately. Happy cruising!

[@jamiewillhite6355]

Never have or will remove gratuities. I always bring a bag of goodies for my room steward. I carry $1 bills for tips when I want to give a little extra. I live on a modest salary but always appreciate those who serve me.

[@bodyloverz30]

The full fare should include all service/gratuities at booking! Florida needs to pass a law now!

[@ptc5184]

Never ever thought of removing gratuities. Always tip over that amount, as well. Like you, Don, I always count it as part of the travel costs. Same with insurance. Never leave home without it!

[@gsteketee]

Never have removed gratuities. Always tip more for drinks, stateroom, spa, etc. Tipping is just part of being a decent human...especially on a cruise. C'mon people.

[@burningblue1254]

I salute you sir.

[@shaggyofwv]

I hate gratuities. I wish we could do away with it as a society and just make the employer pay the workers better.

[@page_one]

So gratuities help the poor not the wealthy. You jack up the prices and suddenly a whole group of people can’t afford to eat out.

[@annamaegrout8159]

I agree we pay enough

[@ICONICPARIS]

Good luck with that

[@westsparks6844]

They can do that but you know what happens then, your cruise price goes up. You pay either way

[@AnonyMous-nl7ig]

Cruise price advertised is for food, entertainment and room. Tipping for service is welcomed, auto grats for ship-maintenance is the responsibility of the employer.

[@paulcarter8805]

Good morning Don, we just got off the Carnival Celebration Sunday and what was sad was the night before is the line at guest services as we went to go get free ice cream, I swear it looked like an amusement ride line. I wish they had a just a separate line that was for these people that are going to remove the gratuities. I swear I would walk by that line and say under my breath just loud enough to be overheard "cheapskate" !!!! lol

[@arlenbell4376]

If I had a really unpleasant experience with a crew member I would complain to the service desk, but still continue my regular tipping. [ I’ve never had any issues with any crew members on the 19 cruises I’ve done. Everyone of them deserve a little extra some a “lot extra”!]

[@Mountainlife73]

IMO, cruiselines should pay their employees a living wage and eliminate the tipping policy. That being said, I have never taken off gratuities. I tip the cabin attendant $100 & $1 or $2 per drink, or if we are hanging out at a place for a bit, CocoCay pool, I'll tip a $20. I save for this all yr. and appreciate everyone's hard work. I figure my maybe over tipping helps counteract the non-tippers.

[@toby7291]

I always prepay the gratuity and have never had it removed. I have never even considered having g it removed. I consider it the price for cruising. I have only went on 5 cruises and only twice gave more than the prepaid amount. The cruise line says this is what I owe per person for gratuity and that’s usually all I pay.

[@kathleenkrueger6989]

It is important foe cruise lines to pay a living wage. It is equally important to treat your cruise employees to tip. Keep those employees who are away from loved ones something to keep a smile on their faces. The happier they are, the happier you will be

[@kristihenderson31]

Removing is terrible. IT should be part of the price. I also bring extra to tip crew members who take care of us on our trip. Everyone Deserves grace!!!!!

[@jclaus2]

My husband is on the Crown princess right now in Alaska and he said the staff is telling him that while the ship is in dry dock, they are going to be removing the arcade and putting the cigar lounge back in. There’s hope for the smokers.

[@rob010976]

Let me just say first, my wife and I have been on dozens of cruises going back to the days we left gratuities in envelopes. However, since the cruise lines have added them in we’ve never removed any. We do leave tips on top of what’s charged for those we think go above and beyond. The fact that some completely remove them actually disgust me.

[@charlesbrunner258]

Gratuities should be up to the passenger, just like on the beach

[@mlhobbs]

Don, we know that crew members do not get the automatic tips. They are only paid what their contract calls for. It is just an income source for the cruise line. The only way that a crew members gets a gratuity is to hand it to them.

[@burningblue1254]

On my cruise line tips are paid out to the crew until the next crew change point. Then it starts all over again. I know because I have worked in guest services and finance roles from assistant junior purser to Chief purser and everything in between as well as at head office. As far as other US based cruise lines I am very skeptical when I hear the cruise line keeps the tips. Very very skeptical. At port crew talk to other cruse lines crew all the time. There are no secrets.

[@billcook4768]

Cruise lines need to pay their employees and eliminate tipping.

[@derkong7114]

What pisses me off the most is knowing some passengers have their tips removed.

[@bodyloverz30]

@@derkong7114 Then give better service!

[@Sean-C]

@@derkong7114 tipping is optional not mandatory.

[@derkong7114]

@@Sean-C so says scum

[@clinpsydoc]

@@derkong7114 It comes down to doing the decent thing or being a cheap a-hole

[@robsouder4462]

I think this is a game the cruise line play to make it sound like cruising is much cheaper than it really is. The total cost should be up front. I drive truck and I'm payed a fair wage. I don't have to hope my customers tip me so I can afford to live. How would you feel if you went to the grocery store and had to pay a 20 percent gratuity ,then jumped into a taxi and another 20 percent is added on,and paid your hydro bill and another 20 percent is added on because these companies don't pay a livable wage. To me a tip is something you give for good or better service. It's up to the cruise line to pay them a decent wage

[@emilydami7887]

I would never think of removing tips. People that don't want to tip have never work for tips

[@clarkjeschke3344]

Never took gratuities off. As long as the cruise lines continue to call them "gratuities", this controversy will not go away. Make it part of the cruise fare. Service fee, room fee, whatever. Then people can give additional to certain crew as they see fit. "Tips" or "gratuities" will always be looked upon as optional

[@jamiesuejeffery]

The U.S. has a tipping culture. Most of the rest of the world does not. Where are these shipped flagged? (Hint: they are not U.S. flagged.). In most cultures, tipping is discouraged.

[@Girasole5849]

I would prefer that our culture just pay a better wage and eliminate tipping completely. Anymore everyone expects a tip - even cashiers at fast food are expecting tips now. At home I am particular who receives tips and cashiers do not qualify IMHO. Having said that, I have never removed tips from my cruise charges as I have always had excellent service on cruises and tip staff I personally see a bit extra.

[@Kayw434]

Agree with you Don (about the tipping!) Thank you for the cruise news and updates!! I love your channel!!

[@robertlulek1634]

I think everybody should have no problem with having the automatic gratuities every day. I think you're just being cheaper by removing them I not only pay the automatic gratuities that are taking every day, but I also tip cash to anybody that goes out of their way extra for me. I think people are just plain old stingy when people say the cruise line should pay a higher salary. What happens if they made $1000 a week each or more? Should they still remove tips does not matter how much money they make a tip for a service performed wellon cruise ships, the people are exemplary and their service

[@burningblue1254]

Hats off to you sir.

[@terrelfitch5838]

We always include the gratuity package and in fact if the service is awesome we tip additional to the individual. These people work hard and we find they provide great service typically. The workers who don’t go just a bit above and beyond at least get a little sprinkling of money from the tip package. We appreciate you Don and one day we’ll bump into you on a cruise! 🎉.

[@burningblue1254]

Thanks for your kindness. I am biased because I am cruise ship employee. Heres my thought. If you went to a nice restaurant for 3 meals a day and eat as much as you want plus pizza, hot dogs. Burgers etc. Plus a cabin attendant that not only cleans your cabin but looks after the ice, extra towels, wine glasses, etc. And your tip is $16 bucks a day, wouldn't you consider that a bargain,? Some of the hotels pre and post cruise want $400 a night and you get a buffet breakfast and free parking!

[@themonkeypuzzle]

C'mon, Don 🙄 .... I know KZbin encourages sensational thumbnails to get you views but this is taking that too far. You know your title was misrepresenting the content. There's a fine line!

[@RH-cv1rg]

I agree. The headline makes it sound like there will be a fee to dine. There isn't and Don must know his thumbnail is misleading. If he doesn't he really needs to proofread before he posts.

[@Dm-wf5ro]

He loves click bait he does it often

[@RH-cv1rg]

@@Dm-wf5ro That is a poor way to run a vlog. I know it works in the short term but it destroys credibility long term. He has a good channel and good content. There is no need to pimp the ratings.

[@geoffdrew5207]

It is 2024, slavery has been abolished. There is now no need to tip workers, there is a need for employers to pay workers a fair wage. Most advanced countries mandate a minimum wage for workers, cruise lines use manipulation to avoid this responsibility then try to shame customers into making up the shortfall. Australians do not like being treated like idiots so we protested and told cruise companies to pay workers a fair wage and then add the extra cost to the cruise fare, just like every other industry. This is now how it works when US cruise lines cruise from Australia. If Americans stood up for cruise workers like Australians do then the sham system would be changed. Virgin and some other cruise lines have an all inclusive cruise fare, it is simple and fair, it does not reduce their profits and means a fair wage for all workers. Wake up people and don't support a system that is anti worker.

[@rjsams001]

Current gratuity policy on all cruiselines is ridiculous and silly. It has no relationship to the actual purpose of gratuities, which is to reward excellent service. Gratuities on cruise ships now are just part of the crew's compensation, and should be included in the cruise fare. I will still tip extra for quality service above and beyond, but that should be my choice and my action.

[@margaretharmon7485]

We never remove our gratuities, but we always give our càbin steward at least $50 extra. Thats just us.

[@NYnative61]

I think many new cruisers don't fully understand that the price you pay for your cabin is only a small portion of what a cruise costs. The tips, excursions -private or through ship OR money needed to visit ports on your own .. transportation, food, drinks, attractions, the beverage packages or buying drinks onboard without one, the optional costs of specialty dining, spa treatments, onboard attractions with extra fees, souvenirs, and of course airfare and hotel or any transportation fees to and from the port. Forgot to mention the casino, but it's a big one. It all adds up and from reading many cruiser reviews over multiple sites, people severely under estimate the total cost when planning a cruise budget. And then they complain about it.

[@susanbrezina3669]

We’re on Jubilee now and are at Chiba’s tonight for free. We didn’t know they’re changing that! We didn’t know it was just for 2 restaurants! So glad we listen to you!

[@patrickoneil6304]

I have had a few "Free" cruises. But they are never truly free. You will still have to pay for the taxes and port fees, but it is still a great deal. And yes, all cruise lines need to just pay their worker a respectable wage, and then just include that into the cruise price. Don't call it a tip, make it part of the entire ticket, then people can actually give additional tips to the people they want as they see fit. But stop bleeding people after they book a cruise. Just make it part of the cruise price period.

[@HappyDeliveryGuy]

I think all gratuities should be removed from all cruise lines and just roll it into the price of the cruise. Then everyone get paid and if you want to leave extra you can.

[@paving58]

yes, not all off us get paid to travel.

[@cbs141]

According to Merriam-Webster, gratuity is defined as "something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service." Synonyms - bonus, lagniappe, extra. When I visit a restaurant, I tip my server for exemplary service provided to me. I do not tip the cook, the dishwasher, the person who washes the cloth napkins & tablecloths. The restaurant is responsible to pay their employee a fair wage; same as the cruise company - the passenger is not responsible for supplementing the cruise company's employees' wages.

[@lizkotchek928]

Interesting observation. I always include tips on Celebrity Cruise line and hope that the people behind the scenes are getting some of that money. I never thought about it like tipping in a restaurant and having to tip the waiter , busboy, line folder etc.. You have some valid points there.

[@roberthamilton1301]

Thanks for the information

[@leticiatraylor982]

My husband and I have never removed any gratuities. We always give additional tips on top of what's already included. The staff on these ships deserve it.

[@pasadenaelk]

Australia and New Zealand do it right. Please, just adjust fares and pay the crew fairly. After spending time and cruising around AU NZ, I really don’t like the way it’s done elsewhere.

[@dolorescarr6511]

We always pay gratuities up front, pay room steward extra at the end and most cruises book specialty dining package for the entire cruise. The cruise line has the original gratuity, charges another 18% for the specialty dining package and we always give a cash tip to our waiter. Breaking this down, we're paying gratuities 3 times for one meal and never eating one meal in the main dining room.

[@ReJo39]

So why should you have to do this?

[@burningblue1254]

The daily gratuities cover all crew that look after you not just wait staff.

[@FearlessRambler]

No tips but just add the cost of salaries to the full cost of your cruise like they do in Australia. Don't call them tips, because they are not on a cruise.

[@robertb7864]

Gratuities need to be included and not allowed to be removed. $8.00 for a second meal is GREAT!

[@hoytballard5504]

So your title is misleading. You meant no more free dining at a specialty venue. It reads like they are going to start charging for the MDR. Pretty sad Don.

[@jeffdinter600]

The cruise fare should include the gratuities and

[@eileenrynn5238]

Thanks for reminding us tips go to all we always think of wait staff and stewards but so many behind the scenes work hard to make our cruise awesome

[@DreamsSketcher]

I always paid tips and I was very generous. It was the last night of the cruise. All those nice smiling, helpful faces whether it be our room steward or waiter in the dining room… they all disappeared after they got tips and you couldn’t get breakfast served, you couldn’t get anything. Nobody was even around to ask on the last day. It made me feel like everything was false and fake. Sure I’ve had to smile at customers. It felt like they absolutely hated us. Plainly did not like their jobs or their customers. And we were very friendly and not complaining about anything. It turned me right off. With how much cruises are costing I can’t believe they’re charging now even for some of their free stuff. It’s just more money going out the door. Even if it’s eight bucks per head that adds up. Not everyone is wealthy and they have to save hard to get a cruise. I always thought the appeal of cruising was all the stuff that was included.

[@linhaton4957]

Just add all mandatory charges to the price of cruise. Customers can then tip accordingly. Tired of bait and switch. The cruise should pay all of the mandatory tips as wages.

[@kathleenmcdonald6641]

Tipping does not guarantee good service if it is included in the fare. I have a problem with this practice.

[@anthonyzdanowski9171]

Now that they have added port and other fees into the price tips should also be listed in the full price. Lets be up front with what the cruise costs. Alcohol and other dinning options are understood as additional cost. lets just be up front for comparison purposes. I have been on 28 cruises on most lines from Cunard to Carnival and loved them all. I have always known what I was getting into.

[@CajunJosh]

Awesome to hear that with record profits Carnival is rewarding it's guests with decreasing benefits and increased fees.

[@Cheryl-n4q]

You need to stop putting click bait on your pod cast.

[@CrusifoxMedia]

We did remove additional gratuities for our cabin of 3. We signed up for princess plus so we were already tipping a gratuity for the room automatically. And Princess was then charging an additional tip of 30USD for per day for our 3rd passenger. The 3rd passenger was a 2 year old child. We said we are already tipping for the room with plus, why are we tipping again?

[@jacquesthibault8100]

At the end of every cruise we're asked to fill out an online survey. Every time we recommend that gratuities be included in the price of the cruise. HAL now includes taxes in the quoted price. That's a start.

[@moloneramos4722]

I have never removed the gratuities.

[@andyturner206]

I prefer to place tips directly with the people that serve me each day than leave it the cruise line and the people that serve me seem genuinely happy to be recognized in that way. I did not remove automatic tips, just adjusted accordingly. I know we spent more on tips than auto gratuities would have charged but it was a more rewarding experience and to be frank, I don't really trust the auto gratuities policy. I really don't know if the cruise company keeps a portion for itself or not.

[@cheristein8016]

@andyturner206 that's exactly why I remove the gratuities and pay cash to those that take care of me for the time I am on the ship. I like to see how it makes them feel when I hand them cash and personally thank them for their hard work!

[@nickpacaccio8540]

@@andyturner206 thanks for sharing your thoughts...I also follow your lead with tipping....my bride and I bring $2 bills with us....the very first crew member I gave one to said thank you...he kept looking at the bill as he walked away...he stopped another crew member and showed it to him...both nodded...apparently they do t get them very often....as a side note on Holland America's private island, the horse riding stable crew and guides were grateful wry much👍🏻!!!

[@nickpacaccio8540]

@@andyturner206 may I ask how accordingly....2,3,4 bucks a day may I ask ???

[@andyturner206]

@@nickpacaccio8540 Holland assess $17/day in recommended gratuities so that's my guide. I still allowed them to charge me daily gratuities but I reduced the amount because I already gave.

[@tuliomeza1]

@@cheristein8016- You remove the gratuities and only top the people with whom you interact directly? What about the people behind the scenes who rely on tips too?

[@cliffordgolub76]

Tipping is no problem. My only issue is that the website should LIST the ALL IN PRICE, not a teaser that adds port charges and gratuity. Ifor one usually overtip.

[@jonasoverka3956]

Tony covered the TIPS story yesterday. I'll say what I said there. Ive been in the service industry most of my life. When it comes to tipping, I tip ACCORDINGLY. You work hard and do a good job, I tip well. EXTREMELY WELL. I know what goes into good work in these places. Been there, done that, sold dozens of tshirts. You give terrible service, well, you get what you deserve. PERIOD. I'll even go to the manager if its that bad. I have, and will again if need be. Now, appling this logic to cruising, I'll pay the gratuity for the cruise, no problem, but you damn right well when I get bad service, I will be at Guest Services DEMANDING the offending crew member is dealt with. Either loss of tips or whatever the 'infraction' may require. You require gratuities up front, be prepared to deal with disgruntled customers. Thats all Ive got to say.

[@carljohnson6434]

@@jonasoverka3956 🤣

[@burningblue1254]

I was Director Passenger Services and I completely agree. Any crew that fails in this regard is dealt with accordingly. What gets a little sticky are third party employees. All salon, spa, fitness staff are not cruise line employees nor the art department for example. Also the shops are run by others although my line the shops are our people.

[@pware9643]

"Free" cruises aren't free, they are pre paid.. by losing thousands of dollars in the casino. Lines like Azamara include gratuities and drinks in the price.. no surprises or big bill at the end of a cruise.

[@donh4750]

Our experience in the MDR was mixed. The food was good, but with frequent delays in serving the food up to 45 minutes and the food arrived cold. It was blamed on the kitchen shutting down for 30 minutes or longer. They have issues to iron out.

[@nikkihendrix8515]

We also think like you. Gratuities are included in our cost of our cruise. We have never removed the gratuities. We do have money for extra tipping at the end of our cruise, usually for our room attendant.

[@russpeterson5696]

Tips are part of the cruise price. Doesn't matter if you pre pay or pay at the end of cruise it is part of your fees.

[@twaunniebusse7262]

Thank you for the updates

[@waamp6984]

Tipping culture is out of control. I would prefer they just pay their employees a fair wage (in all industries) and remove tips altogether. It’s ridiculous that they force tipping (yes I know this isn’t happening) but they still play the blame or bad passenger game.

[@db5561]

$8 a great deal, wish Princess would offer the same Speciality dining. D

[@joelroach416]

I love the older Princess ships. The design is just better for me.

[@burningblue1254]

Were you ever on the Pacific Princess? That was my favorite ship to work on although the cew quarters are much nicer on the newer ships.

[@joelroach416]

@@burningblue1254 I never had the pleasure of cruising on Pacific. I did have the pleasure of meeting an Officer in the dining area of Regal a couple of years ago that had worked on the Pacific.

[@burningblue1254]

@joelroach416 I am tall blonde and work in the Hotel Department. If you see such an officer say hello. I don't get around the ship much because I have a lot of responsibilities now and it gets very hectic. If you see such a person say you wrote me on KZbin burning blue. I will.comp you a bottle of wine

[@chirstinegarcia8866]

Thank you

[@nicolemiller4688]

Absolutely agree on that new no show policy.

[@cindycarrington235]

Never would remove gratuities, in fact always tip extra. And you are right, you can not get a meal for $8.00 anywhere. Not a bad deal at all.

[@jameswade7550]

Thank you Don for the News and information. I'm one that have never remove gratuities and have no problem if cruise lines put it in the cruise fare.