I love that you talk about gratuities, Matt. These crew members are honestly the most amazing servant-hearted folk on earth. Just got back from Harmony and they earned every penny of my prepaid gratuities, and I'm from a culture that doesn't tip. So, if you're like me, pay it up front as just part of the price, and then at the end of the cruise you'll be so happy with your choice!!! I'm missing Glen and Sugi so much in my post cruise blues!
I see both sides of this. On the one hand, you're absolutely right, these folks work crazy hard for my enjoyment, and they deserve fair compensation and respect. On the other hand, I really do wish the cruise lines would just pay them a nice salary, fold that cost into my base fare, and do away with the gratuity system. I'll gladly pay an extra few hundred dollars for my cruise if I know that that money is going to the crew, and I won't end up with a gratuity bill at the end. On the third hand, I agree with Matt that until that day happens, I'll not be the one to begrudge the crew any money. In fact, in addition to letting the tips stand, I'll often add a few dollars out of hand to the cabin steward and others who've gone above and beyond.
As for booze smuggling and aside from those who just like the challenge of breaking the rules, I think they could minimize the temptation by offering discounted drink packages at different levels - not everyone has the desire to drink 8-10 drinks a day to make the current “all you can drink every day for an entire week” option. Perhaps prepaid drink passes could be sold in advance. Maybe a 10 drink pass for me, and a 6 drink pass for my wife would be perfect!
That is a great idea. We're Diamond members which gives us 4 "free" drinks apiece per day. Usually that's enough but there are times when we do go beyond that and have to pay full price.
@@johnlusk3687us too. A discounted rate for Diamond members would be nice. I give my 4 free drinks away if I have the drink package just to get the message across.
Fantastic idea that no cruise line would ever go for, sadly. They make lots of money on those drink packages. Otherwise, they wouldn't do it. I bet most people don't drink anywhere near the amount to breakeven on those. If it was a way to save passengers money, why would the cruise lines offer it? The last cruise we took, it worked out that you would have to drink 15 per day. Nobody can keep that up all week.
that is just ridiculous. while people keep paying tips the system will never change. people need to be paid a living wage, not requiring tips. I would be ashamed if I accepted tips unless it was for something really special, not just for doing my job properly.
@@mikatu Same here: I think tips are shameful for people who have to accept it. Give employees decent salaries and don't make them beggars. They work too hard for you.
@@mikatu While I agree with you in general (tipping culture), cruise ships are bit different. They ARE paid living wages when compared to their home countries. They often make several times what they can make from the developing countries they are from. Tipping is pretty much a donation at that point. A $20 tip could be the equivalent of a month's wage in their home countries. I often tip addition to the gratuities just as a way of good gesture. They left their families to make much more money, and their wages are already that, but let's make it even more awesome for the people who's been serving you the whole week. I'm not going to miss that $50 to my cabin attendant, but it could make their week.
One caveat about boredom: If you don't go ashore, there may not be much going on the ship while it's in port. It's a good time to do things like the pool/hot tub. Even events like trivia might be few and far between.
@@j-pinball3930 Other than the ppol and "discount" spa services, there's usually not much going on. Don't take my word for it. Look up a cruise compass from a past sailing.
Sometimes that’s the best time to be on the ship. Especially for the newer ones with water slides and zip lines, the lines are so much shorter. Plus if you want a spa service or something similar it’s easier to get a time and slightly cheaper.
@@Penguins875 Spa services are always overpriced, but I usually end up getting them on shore days. Some other cruise blogger said NOT to do it because they would be overcrowded. WTF? I've never been turned away.
We are Diamond members and I ALWAYS reduce the tip to $8/day per person at the Bursars office. That compensates behind the scenes people. I then tip CASH to the cabin steward and the waiters. I have been thanked profusely by both sets for doing this. They get the cash immediately. They get ALL the cash rather than a very small percentage of it. I even tip them some of it at the START of the cruise and get much better service. And, in the sole instance where we got truly awful cabin service, I didn't tip him at the end. In 7 days, we saw him only 1x and the room was never cleaned despite reporting it to housekeeping. But 1x in 20+ cruises is ok for average. BTW I was a server for many years and we always prefer cash tips. Nothing has changed in that regard.
I have no problem paying gratuities upfront, but they seem to incrsase often. Also, with regard to being bored, it helps to read the Cruise Compass first thing in the morning for a few minutes and plan out your day. You should find enough to keep you busy. Lastly, a port day when you don't have an excursion is a great time to explore the ship and partake in activities when they are less crowded. See you on Liberty in 65 days!
I enjoy cruising, but do have a pretty big fear of deep water. What I tell myself is that I am ON the water, and not IN the water. Not sure if that would help anyone else that has the same concern.
To your question "is the water safe to drink?" I'll add some nuance to this. First off, yes, the water meets every safety standard, and is generally safe to drink. However, do realize that it's usually desalinated water, and sometimes trace amounts of salt may remain. For almost every situation, this is no big deal--go ahead and drink the water. That said, I have some friends who do not drink alcohol, carbonated beverages, caffeine (coffee and tea), or dairy. (I have to wonder how we can still be friends, but that's another story.) So, when they cruise, they consume only water, and plenty of it. For them, that trace amount of salt is bothersome, so they opt for bottled water for their drinking. Theirs may be an edge case, but I thought it worth mentioning in case there is anyone else out their drinking a couple gallons of water each and every day.
2-4L of water is good for you! Why are so many judging good water intake! I fall in your friend’s category honestly. I only drink water, but I want to go cruising
@@bugwar5545 Thank you for sharing your opinion. Meanwhile, my friends drink water, despite how you feel about it. Maybe you should just worry about yourself and not get into the business of people you've never met.
You had great points on many topics. I agree that trying to sneak alcohol onboard is really silly. I don't drink enough alcohol on any lenth of cruise to rationalize buying a drink package. I was recently part of a blog where someone wanted to know how to skip paying any gratuities. As hard as most of these crew members work, that just seems so wrong.
It's totally wrong. Anyone who doesn't give gratuities is a cheapo who doesn't deserve to cruise. The crew tending to our cabins are awesome hard workers! And don't forget they are there to help you when something goes wrong and there's no one else there for you; esp when you cruise solo. Please show your appreciation with cash, not with a gift of a tie or a picture frame or a hat that they don't want or need. They need to send their hard earned money home to their wives and children. Think of it this way.....would you or your husband like a gift of a used tie or shoes purchased from the thrift shop...instead of a pay cheque...... no, i don't think so and neither do you. Give them cold hard cash just like all workers should get.
Howdy RCB team, I hope all is well. We wanted to share a recent, not-so-great experience with y’all. We just had a client mistakenly leave their handgun in their carry-on bag, which was discovered, here at the cruise terminal here in Galveston, Texas. While the accident was not a crime under Texas law, they did not get to cruise, received only a partial refund, and missed out on a great vacation. We always recommend our clients turn out their bags prior to traveling to discover any inadvertent contraband. Just a PSA to save someone the headache!
We boarded in Galveston this past December. My niece had to leave the line and call her bf to pick up some CBD gummies she’d forgotten to remove from her purse. She remembered it when the dogs hit on her while we were boarding. 😬
I actually knew about it from people on previous cruises but i always ordered myself a 12 pack. of water. Then one day i decided to try the water in the bthrm sink and wouldn't you know.... it tasted exactly like the bottled ones. I was literally stunned and ashamed of myself and will never pay the huge rip-off i paid for it ever again! If you have room for empty bottles from home do bring a few in your suitcase along with the caps. That way you can fill 'em up and put them in your little fridge. Nice cold water all day long that didn't cost a thing.
Re: "Is the water safe to drink" It might not be distilled, but desalination via reverse osmosis or other type of filtration process does satisfy safety standards for potable water. Taste may not be the best, but that is the same as any municipal water supplier. Don't drink the tap water because you think it might be unsafe. It all comes down to a matter of taste. 🥛
Once I prepay my gratuities, I feel so guilty not handing over money each time is done, that I end up WAY overpaying gratuities. Do the cabin attendants and dining staff know I've prepaid? I'd feel less guilty if so. Thank you!
Yes, I have heard from people who work on cruise ships that they know exactly who prepaid and didn't cancel the prepaid gratuity. I guess there is a list that gets posted? I don't know, but I am all for the prepaid gratuities, and if someone goes above and beyond for me, throw them some extra $$$.
I have told my cabin steward when they come by to introduce themselves that I have prepaid the gratuities. But if I ask for anything extra, like a nightly ice bag for my back, I tip extra right then.
We always pre pay the gratuities so as to avoid any last day surprises. On only one cruise did we not tip our cabin attendant extra. We always tip extra on the 2nd day and last day. The reason we wait is to see what their attitude and service is like.
OK, a question that hit me while I was shopping for my 2 bottles of wine before I get on Freedom this Monday: What exactly counts as "wine"? My Costco sells a 750ml bottle of Mimosa that's wine-adjacent, at least, but if I try to bring it aboard, will I get hassled at checkin?
If you want to drink beer for the taste and alcohol content isn't of vital importance, you can buy non-alcoholic beer. In terms of how many you can bring aboard, it's treated like any other non-alcoholic beverage (no more than 12 standard 17oz cans, bottles, or cartons per stateroom). The person I heard this tip from said that the non-alcoholic Corona beer tasted exactly the same as the original, but I can't confirm or deny because I brought the non-alcoholic beer that I already knew about when I saw it at a store near my cruise port (Athletic Brewing Company, if you're wondering). I wouldn't normally buy non-alcoholic beer (heck, I only knew this brand beforehand because it was given to me for free after a race), but given the cruise limitations, this beer really hit the spot on the pool deck. Just make sure that the packaging on the case and the beers themselves clearly show that it's 0% so that Security knows you're not bringing alcoholic beer on board. I brought along a six pack in my luggage and the security guys didn't even blink when it went through the x-ray. They did set aside a couple of items that I accidentally brought with me, so they were definitely paying attention!
Matt last cruise I was on (01/2024) I prepaid my gratuities as I normally do. I never got to even get to the MDR. Which I found very unfair. Made reservations the nights I was supposed to go and tried to wait in lines and gave up after 2 hrs later. Also, the cabin steward was the worst ever and also never saw him until 2nd day. Gave him 30 bucks cash. Ask him would love some ice daily and that it was my cousins 1st cruise thinking maybe he would do some towel animals. We got nothing. We barely got clean towels or cleaned. It was one of the most horrible cruises ever. So disappointing. I did email RCCL when I got home also filled out the survey. How do u handle or feel about gratuities. I know they go other places. Don't get me wrong. But wow!!
I would never prepay any gratuities and if the service isn't up to par, have them removed or reduced. Money is just going to the crusie Corporation as miscellaneous income anyway. Matt is just a puppet for Royal caribbean since he probably receives credits and bonuses or free cruises with these segments.
I lucked out. I was on a cruise where the captain was about to go home. He says bye bye when he’s done with his announcements. Normally I don’t cruise more than once a year. That year I did a Caribbean cruise and an Alaskan cruise. Second cruise I hear bye bye. The captain was back on another ship after his break. He signed a book with the wildlife expert. Both on Princess.
Behind the scenes people gets thrown around alot. People think engineers, captain, lifeguards, people who clean the windjammer, people who clean the pool, electricians, plumbers, dock workers etc ... Get the prepaid tips. That is false, waitstaff in the mdr, room attendants are the only ones who get the prepaid tips😊
Falling off a ship: I’m 6’2” and my center of balance/gravity is over the railing on about half of the cruise ship balconies I’ve been on. If I stand right next to the railing, they reach about mid-stomach; with even a little bit of force behind me, I could “tip” over. Such as, if I violently puked over the railing, was at all dizzy, I could possibly fall head over heels into the water. Imagine the sensation if the railings were only up to your knees! I’m actually surprised there aren’t a lot more overboard incidents of taller people.
Definitely not changed daily. However, on our 12 day cruises we requested clean sheets on day 5 or 6 (can't remember) and our stateroom attendant was happy to grant our request. 😊
When places like Mr Sanchos and Paradise Beach say to bring a towel from the ship, are they big enough? Do we need 2? Are they TOO big and buying something lighter weight and sand friendly is a better plan?
I’ve never been on a watercraft of any kind since 1998 as im too afraid of getting seasick or motion sickness. What happens if I get on a cruise and I get sea sick? I think that will be a very lowsy way to spend seven days.
How do you get the Diamond plus free days of internet? Should you book ahead of time or wait until you're onboard? What about the discount from the casino?
Up to 2 adults in 1 cabin can bring a bottle of wine and up to 12 cans of soda, sparkling water, juice, or other non-alcoholic drinks. Usually, when you first board the ship. Some lines allow you to do so at ports of call, but most don't. Check your cruise line for their rules.
*GRATUITY question- Can the bartender see if you prepaid your gratuities when they run your seapass at the bar? You can see how this can easily affect the service. (they may bs the drink, not come back as often)
I'm not a beach, sun, pool person either. Yes, you will enjoy your cruise, if you pick your cruise for the destinations. Alaska, Norway fiords, Greek Islands, Island hopping in the southern Caribbean are the four cruises that are nearly impossible to do any other way than cruising. I loved seeing those places and not having to pack up my suitcase every day. Many people like cruising for the ship. I even know one person that rarely goes on any excursions. They enjoy a week of relaxing at a luxury hotel with changing views and all the amenities. I cruise for the "unpack once, see many places" aspect of cruising.
Depending which countries. whether you are used to or not on tips. even a few dollars to the crew members especially they went out of their way will really help them & their family. remember most crew members are from third world countries & are living below average cruisers. so, it would be very nice gesture to another person. just imagine you were the other way around.
Most of the time, overboards typically happen because the passenger is so drunk that they can't even control their own actions. As long as your responsible, you DEFINITELY WILL NOT be overboard.
That is a great idea! Wish I had thought of that. I'll add it to the other great idea - The best way to save money on a cruise is to NOT take a cruise.
On a previous cruise, our waitstaff really went above and beyond to take care of my food allergies, so I added an additional tip and thank-you note at the end. I feel that this would be appreciated. 😊
I would love to go on a cruise, but due to the fact that I am a high risk of my illness. I’m scared that I might have an episode with my TTP, but I wanna go on the cruise so bad.😭 that’s why I enjoy watching your Vlog take care, my friend❤❤❤❤
You nevrr know whats available. Neighbor with diabetes in wheelchair requiring dialysis daily found cruise where drs skilled to handle this have volunteered to travel along on ship. Good luck.
Look for specialty cruises maybe through a good travel agent? A friend at work with a severely celiac affected daughter found a charter cruise for October that has seminars, nutritionists, and an entire dedicated restaurant serving all gluten free menu for the week of the cruise. This will allow her to go to Alaska with her daughter, husband and grandkids so much easier! While it is true all cruises have some gluten free / sugar free dining options, this type of cruise expanded that for peace of mind and enjoyment for all. Just an idea for you if helpful to know. I hope you find something that might work for you. 😊
Just got back from a 4 night, on Navigator, and alot of the services have REALLY gone downhill, post pandemic. The Cafe Promenade had nowhere near the amount of food and sweets as before. The display was barren, and the pizza was awful. Secondly, the crew were basically hiding out all cruise. Never saw Capt. James once, or Clo the Cruise Director. On all my past Royal cruises, I have seen these folks numerous times, per cruise. The guest services staff not only seemed disinterested, but couldn't understand the passengers. Royal Caribbean needs to shape up. I cancelled my Sept. Cruise, because I was very dissatisfied!!!
Great info! Another naive question for you: I will cruise for the first time with my husband and 2 year old daughter for 12 days. I understand the gratuity portion and my husband and I will gladly pay; but will my 2 year old daughter also be charged $216 in gratuity? Would it be rude if I ask guest services to not charge my daughter gratuities? I was thinking of leaving a tip on behalf of my daughter but not $216, but again I just want to do the right, so your advice would be greatly helpful.
@bugwar5545 I will be going in October. I'm excited and nervous. I am planning on staying a few days in Italy as well. God willing, it will all go well 🙏
I have a stupid question. I’m not sailing on Royal Caribbean, but in another major line. How do I get local currency? I understand that most of the shops near the port accept US dollars, but my daughter wants me to bring her back local currency from each country I visit. It’s not worth it to go find a bank etc since she just wants a small amount - like $5 worth. We will be sailing to the Caribbean in a couple of weeks.
@@tammystreasures8766 they will give you change based on what they have -- keep in mind, the cost will be in local currency so you have to convert to see if you are getting a good price but local street vendors will haggle with you.
@@tammystreasures8766 On my cruise I wanted some local currency to give to my neighbors on my return. I simply went to a local vendor in each port and told them why I wanted it. I paid for some trinket in dollars and got the change in whatever the locals used.
I don’t answer how much I tip the room steward. I don’t want to get flack from people. Removing gratuities is rude. Sorry if you don’t agree people. My sister says she’s afraid of pirates. Others don’t want to not see land. I wish I could find another female senior to travel with. Solo is expensive.
Yes, but you have check them out with your room card. If you don't return them, then you are charged a fee (maybe $25 - I don't remember). If someone takes the one you checked it becomes a mess.
On my last RCL cruise, there were movies on demand (many on newer ships), several ESPN type channels, CNN, Fox, Kids/Cartoons, and five channels of ship related broadcasts, like ship cameras with navigation map, Next Cruise advertising, Excursions details, a daily talk show hosted by the CD, and replays of some of the theater shows, ice skating show, and events like comedy show and water show, on Harmony
@@robertewalt7789 no thanks too expensive and I have a line medical conditions like epilepsy type two diabetes and after watching Titanic I’m actually terrified to try that idea
If I’m paying for an overpriced cruise as it is, I kind of expect amazing service. Why make me pay for gratuities on top of the thousands I’m already paying?? Just build it into the price
I asked a question in a solo group about the beds…whether or not to separate them? One person referred to my question as being “silly”. I deleted the post and left the group.
Wow, sorry that happened. Depending on the room layout, there can be more space when the bed is separated. Also if I am in a window cabin and the bed is under the window, I will ask to have the bed relocated to the side wall.
How is the water purity governed by U.S. Reg’n’s when most ships are REG’d to one of the Tiny Caribbean or South Seas Island countries which have NO REGULATIONS AT ALL for Cruise Ships (Skipping Tax Reg’ns & other Reg’n Compliance is why a lot of Cruise Lines register their Ships there - plus no pesky Police investigation when someone is raped or murdered on board!)
To the people who asked if the crew members actually slept on-board the ship: think about it for a minute - unless they were taken off the ship by helicopter every night, where else could they possibly sleep? Duh !
Totally none of these are embarrassing or questions that I wish would be answered in cruise videos. There are 2 questions I wish would be answered. Where are the public restrooms? If you do a ship tour point them out please. Some of us older people don't like to be too far from a restroom if you know what I mean. Another question that I would like answered is what happens if I have the drinks package but I want to buy a pretty young lady a drink? How do I do that? I know I cannot properly charge it on my drink package, so how do I do it?
There are public bathrooms on most (all? ) of the decks with public areas or entertainment venues. They tend to be located near the elevator lobbies and staircases.
Embarrassing question: Why can't RC provide decent iced tea? Answer: Because they are too cheap to actually brew the tea on the ship. The iced tea is really terrible. We make hot tea from tea bags and then poor it over ice to get something drinkable.
I am one of those people that can do absolutely nothing, and it would be everything to me. So my embarrassing question: do they have plungers in the bathrooms, or can it flush for the God's? 😂
By paying auto-gratuities you're making it cheaper for RC to pay their employees. All tips given by customers don't increase the amount of money that employees make, but simply makes it so that RC can pay less. It's like this: Lets say the Cruiseline promises a contract monthly wage of $1,000, that's made up like this: 1. $100.00 Basic Wage 2. TIPS 3. Any difference remaining (i.e. if the employee only receives $500 in tips, RC needs to pony up $500 to meet the Contractual price they were required to pay. If the employee receives $1,000 in tips, then RC doesn't have to pay anything over their $100.00 basic wage.) This is why I refuse to pay the auto-gratuities and instead pay tips directly to the people I see and who serve me. RC HAS to pay everyone else the fees they agreed to on the boat. My server has agreed to work on the boat for $1,000 a month. He's always going to get that no matter what. If I give him a $50.00 he collects that and keeps it ON TOP of the $1,000 he's already getting. If I have my auto gratuities pay for these employees tips it means that it's less money RC has to pay. No thanks.
I sneak booze onboard and it has nothing to do with the cost of the drink package. I actually buy the drink package but still sneak stuff onboard. I like to have a few drinks before dinner while sitting on my balcony. It sucks to have to go to a bar (which is usually on a different floor) multiple times within 2 hours and then go back to my room. If they would let people who have bought the drink package buy a bottle of alcohol onboard and take it back to their room I wouldn’t sneak stuff onboard. I just wanna relax and pregame in my on my balcony without making 20 trips to the bar then back to my room.
I agree in concept, but people without the drink package could simply,y give those with it the money for a bottle and have them buy it for them. They kind of have to make a hard rule about it.
It is clear you don’t understand irrational fears. If I can’t see land I am going to be on edge. Also just knowing I can’t get away no matter how big the ship is will also be on edge.
Like # 2 question; how come Internet and the drink packages are charged separately from the cruise? Also, how come gratuities are charged for drink and/or packages upfront? I don’t pay for gratuities up front because I’d rather give tips directly to the people who help me the most. I don’t want to give tips to all of the crew members.
Not everyone wants a drink package or internet so they are charged separately. Even if you purchase drinks a la carte and automatic tip of 18% is charged at the time of purchase.
Tips are too high on most cruises. Cunard 2024 $14.50 each per day for balcony. Don't mind paying reasonable tips. Cruise prices keep increasing; need to pay their staff a reasonable wage instead of placing the guilt on the passengers. Tip flation, especially in the US is totally out of control. Tip jars/buckets everywhere you go.
If the water is distilled coming out the tap you say here why do you have to request distilled water for CPAP machines? Just use the distilled tap water. ( ewww).
@@bugwar5545 If it is automatically added to your bill, and you have to jump through hoops to get it off, is it really psychologically optional? They know it isn't. That's why they don't wait for YOU to put it on your bill.
@@darthlaurel "...is it really psychologically optional?" Yer funny. Sad, but still funny. If you can take it off by simply telling them to, it is real world optional. Now If your psyche can't handle picking up a phone to tell someone else to not charge you, you got bigger problems than a gratuity fee.
How come most of the crew members are foreigners? On my cruise last year on Independence of the Sea every crew member was a foreigner. I saw one white male crew member but he was from England.
no you do not have to pay gratuities so you should not say that you should you should be advocating for this to be stopped it is a scam .we do not pay crew wages that is the company to do . name me anywhere else where to are asked after you purchase something the then say oh you now need to pay our employess wages. do walmart or amazon ask you.
No, they prepare most food and beverages beforehand for the amount of passengers and certain docks they fuel up or restock certain items. They usually radio ahead to the next port if they need more of certain things like specialty beers or perishable foods. When you are boarding day 1, you will see the trucks and forklifts taking pallets of food, drinks, etc onto the ship!
They occasionally do run out of certain items. Two I have personally experienced were ice tea and Diet Coke cans. A possible third might be certain brand(s) of beer but that could simply be a bar to bar difference.
It’s rare but it does happen. My sister’s MIL went on a short cruise and evidently there were a couple family groups on this cruise that wiped out the buffets. They also caused a few other problems that soured her on cruises.
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I love that you talk about gratuities, Matt. These crew members are honestly the most amazing servant-hearted folk on earth. Just got back from Harmony and they earned every penny of my prepaid gratuities, and I'm from a culture that doesn't tip. So, if you're like me, pay it up front as just part of the price, and then at the end of the cruise you'll be so happy with your choice!!! I'm missing Glen and Sugi so much in my post cruise blues!
Amen!
I see both sides of this. On the one hand, you're absolutely right, these folks work crazy hard for my enjoyment, and they deserve fair compensation and respect. On the other hand, I really do wish the cruise lines would just pay them a nice salary, fold that cost into my base fare, and do away with the gratuity system. I'll gladly pay an extra few hundred dollars for my cruise if I know that that money is going to the crew, and I won't end up with a gratuity bill at the end. On the third hand, I agree with Matt that until that day happens, I'll not be the one to begrudge the crew any money. In fact, in addition to letting the tips stand, I'll often add a few dollars out of hand to the cabin steward and others who've gone above and beyond.
As for booze smuggling and aside from those who just like the challenge of breaking the rules, I think they could minimize the temptation by offering discounted drink packages at different levels - not everyone has the desire to drink 8-10 drinks a day to make the current “all you can drink every day for an entire week” option. Perhaps prepaid drink passes could be sold in advance. Maybe a 10 drink pass for me, and a 6 drink pass for my wife would be perfect!
That is a great idea. We're Diamond members which gives us 4 "free" drinks apiece per day. Usually that's enough but there are times when we do go beyond that and have to pay full price.
I love your idea!!!
@@johnlusk3687us too. A discounted rate for Diamond members would be nice. I give my 4 free drinks away if I have the drink package just to get the message across.
Great idea!
Fantastic idea that no cruise line would ever go for, sadly. They make lots of money on those drink packages. Otherwise, they wouldn't do it. I bet most people don't drink anywhere near the amount to breakeven on those. If it was a way to save passengers money, why would the cruise lines offer it?
The last cruise we took, it worked out that you would have to drink 15 per day. Nobody can keep that up all week.
I always give more than what is suggested for tips. I prepay and then give cash at the end of the sailing. They deserve it.
Same. They work so hard and definitely deserve it.
that is just ridiculous. while people keep paying tips the system will never change.
people need to be paid a living wage, not requiring tips. I would be ashamed if I accepted tips unless it was for something really special, not just for doing my job properly.
@@mikatu Same here: I think tips are shameful for people who have to accept it. Give employees decent salaries and don't make them beggars. They work too hard for you.
We do too!!! The staff works really hard.
@@mikatu While I agree with you in general (tipping culture), cruise ships are bit different. They ARE paid living wages when compared to their home countries. They often make several times what they can make from the developing countries they are from. Tipping is pretty much a donation at that point. A $20 tip could be the equivalent of a month's wage in their home countries. I often tip addition to the gratuities just as a way of good gesture. They left their families to make much more money, and their wages are already that, but let's make it even more awesome for the people who's been serving you the whole week. I'm not going to miss that $50 to my cabin attendant, but it could make their week.
One caveat about boredom: If you don't go ashore, there may not be much going on the ship while it's in port. It's a good time to do things like the pool/hot tub. Even events like trivia might be few and far between.
Not sure what cruise line you’ve been on, but there’s always plenty to do on the ship while in port AND with much less people.
@@j-pinball3930 Other than the ppol and "discount" spa services, there's usually not much going on. Don't take my word for it. Look up a cruise compass from a past sailing.
Sometimes that’s the best time to be on the ship. Especially for the newer ones with water slides and zip lines, the lines are so much shorter. Plus if you want a spa service or something similar it’s easier to get a time and slightly cheaper.
@@Penguins875 Spa services are always overpriced, but I usually end up getting them on shore days. Some other cruise blogger said NOT to do it because they would be overcrowded. WTF? I've never been turned away.
We are Diamond members and I ALWAYS reduce the tip to $8/day per person at the Bursars office. That compensates behind the scenes people. I then tip CASH to the cabin steward and the waiters. I have been thanked profusely by both sets for doing this. They get the cash immediately. They get ALL the cash rather than a very small percentage of it. I even tip them some of it at the START of the cruise and get much better service. And, in the sole instance where we got truly awful cabin service, I didn't tip him at the end. In 7 days, we saw him only 1x and the room was never cleaned despite reporting it to housekeeping. But 1x in 20+ cruises is ok for average. BTW I was a server for many years and we always prefer cash tips. Nothing has changed in that regard.
Helpful video! I’ll be cruising for the first time in a few weeks and the info is reassuring. ☺️
I have no problem paying gratuities upfront, but they seem to incrsase often. Also, with regard to being bored, it helps to read the Cruise Compass first thing in the morning for a few minutes and plan out your day. You should find enough to keep you busy. Lastly, a port day when you don't have an excursion is a great time to explore the ship and partake in activities when they are less crowded. See you on Liberty in 65 days!
I have been sailing with Royal for 34 years and can only remember them raising the gratuities about 4 times.
I enjoy cruising, but do have a pretty big fear of deep water. What I tell myself is that I am ON the water, and not IN the water. Not sure if that would help anyone else that has the same concern.
I like that perspective. I'm going on my first cruise next week, and will remember that, thank you.
@@leahkarp29 So how was your trip?
To your question "is the water safe to drink?" I'll add some nuance to this. First off, yes, the water meets every safety standard, and is generally safe to drink. However, do realize that it's usually desalinated water, and sometimes trace amounts of salt may remain. For almost every situation, this is no big deal--go ahead and drink the water. That said, I have some friends who do not drink alcohol, carbonated beverages, caffeine (coffee and tea), or dairy. (I have to wonder how we can still be friends, but that's another story.) So, when they cruise, they consume only water, and plenty of it. For them, that trace amount of salt is bothersome, so they opt for bottled water for their drinking. Theirs may be an edge case, but I thought it worth mentioning in case there is anyone else out their drinking a couple gallons of water each and every day.
Even bottled water contains surprising levels of salt. Just read the label.
If they are drinking that much water, they got bigger mental problems than their bladder.
2-4L of water is good for you! Why are so many judging good water intake! I fall in your friend’s category honestly. I only drink water, but I want to go cruising
@@monihasnone6137 Cuz unless you are in the desert, a gallon of water a day is excessive.
@@bugwar5545 Thank you for sharing your opinion. Meanwhile, my friends drink water, despite how you feel about it. Maybe you should just worry about yourself and not get into the business of people you've never met.
You had great points on many topics. I agree that trying to sneak alcohol onboard is really silly. I don't drink enough alcohol on any lenth of cruise to rationalize buying a drink package. I was recently part of a blog where someone wanted to know how to skip paying any gratuities. As hard as most of these crew members work, that just seems so wrong.
It's totally wrong. Anyone who doesn't give gratuities is a cheapo who doesn't deserve to cruise. The crew tending to our cabins are awesome hard workers! And don't forget they are there to help you when something goes wrong and there's no one else there for you; esp when you cruise solo. Please show your appreciation with cash, not with a gift of a tie or a picture frame or a hat that they don't want or need. They need to send their hard earned money home to their wives and children. Think of it this way.....would you or your husband like a gift of a used tie or shoes purchased from the thrift shop...instead of a pay cheque...... no, i don't think so and neither do you. Give them cold hard cash just like all workers should get.
Howdy RCB team, I hope all is well. We wanted to share a recent, not-so-great experience with y’all. We just had a client mistakenly leave their handgun in their carry-on bag, which was discovered, here at the cruise terminal here in Galveston, Texas. While the accident was not a crime under Texas law, they did not get to cruise, received only a partial refund, and missed out on a great vacation. We always recommend our clients turn out their bags prior to traveling to discover any inadvertent contraband. Just a PSA to save someone the headache!
Great tip!
We boarded in Galveston this past December. My niece had to leave the line and call her bf to pick up some CBD gummies she’d forgotten to remove from her purse. She remembered it when the dogs hit on her while we were boarding. 😬
Tbh i didnt know about cruise sink water being safe to drink so good to know
I actually knew about it from people on previous cruises but i always ordered myself a 12 pack. of water. Then one day i decided to try the water in the bthrm sink and wouldn't you know.... it tasted exactly like the bottled ones. I was literally stunned and ashamed of myself and will never pay the huge rip-off i paid for it ever again! If you have room for empty bottles from home do bring a few in your suitcase along with the caps. That way you can fill 'em up and put them in your little fridge. Nice cold water all day long that didn't cost a thing.
Re: "Is the water safe to drink" It might not be distilled, but desalination via reverse osmosis or other type of filtration process does satisfy safety standards for potable water. Taste may not be the best, but that is the same as any municipal water supplier.
Don't drink the tap water because you think it might be unsafe. It all comes down to a matter of taste. 🥛
I drank the tap water on my last cruise and it was fine - no different tasting than, say, hotel water.
We normally drink the water on the ship but on the Brilliance of the Seas the water tasted and smelled terrible. We bought bottles of water.
I bring my own water on to drink. I do not trust the desalianation process.
Guido the piano player! Love that kid!
Once I prepay my gratuities, I feel so guilty not handing over money each time is done, that I end up WAY overpaying gratuities. Do the cabin attendants and dining staff know I've prepaid? I'd feel less guilty if so. Thank you!
Yes, I have heard from people who work on cruise ships that they know exactly who prepaid and didn't cancel the prepaid gratuity. I guess there is a list that gets posted? I don't know, but I am all for the prepaid gratuities, and if someone goes above and beyond for me, throw them some extra $$$.
I have told my cabin steward when they come by to introduce themselves that I have prepaid the gratuities. But if I ask for anything extra, like a nightly ice bag for my back, I tip extra right then.
I do the same always leave a lil cash tip for the cabin steward and bar staff. But even a buck a drink ends up costing way more.
Gonna cruise with you one day Matt...yes, that can be taken as a threat...hehe. Peace brother!
My main embarrassing question would be what's free and what's an upcharge on the ship (going to be on Allure in a week or so).
We always pre pay the gratuities so as to avoid any last day surprises. On only one cruise did we not tip our cabin attendant extra. We always tip extra on the 2nd day and last day. The reason we wait is to see what their attitude and service is like.
Thank you
OK, a question that hit me while I was shopping for my 2 bottles of wine before I get on Freedom this Monday: What exactly counts as "wine"? My Costco sells a 750ml bottle of Mimosa that's wine-adjacent, at least, but if I try to bring it aboard, will I get hassled at checkin?
So how did it turn out on your cruise?
If you want to drink beer for the taste and alcohol content isn't of vital importance, you can buy non-alcoholic beer. In terms of how many you can bring aboard, it's treated like any other non-alcoholic beverage (no more than 12 standard 17oz cans, bottles, or cartons per stateroom). The person I heard this tip from said that the non-alcoholic Corona beer tasted exactly the same as the original, but I can't confirm or deny because I brought the non-alcoholic beer that I already knew about when I saw it at a store near my cruise port (Athletic Brewing Company, if you're wondering). I wouldn't normally buy non-alcoholic beer (heck, I only knew this brand beforehand because it was given to me for free after a race), but given the cruise limitations, this beer really hit the spot on the pool deck.
Just make sure that the packaging on the case and the beers themselves clearly show that it's 0% so that Security knows you're not bringing alcoholic beer on board. I brought along a six pack in my luggage and the security guys didn't even blink when it went through the x-ray. They did set aside a couple of items that I accidentally brought with me, so they were definitely paying attention!
Matt last cruise I was on (01/2024) I prepaid my gratuities as I normally do. I never got to even get to the MDR. Which I found very unfair. Made reservations the nights I was supposed to go and tried to wait in lines and gave up after 2 hrs later. Also, the cabin steward was the worst ever and also never saw him until 2nd day. Gave him 30 bucks cash. Ask him would love some ice daily and that it was my cousins 1st cruise thinking maybe he would do some towel animals. We got nothing. We barely got clean towels or cleaned. It was one of the most horrible cruises ever. So disappointing. I did email RCCL when I got home also filled out the survey. How do u handle or feel about gratuities. I know they go other places. Don't get me wrong. But wow!!
I would never prepay any gratuities and if the service isn't up to par, have them removed or reduced. Money is just going to the crusie Corporation as miscellaneous income anyway. Matt is just a puppet for Royal caribbean since he probably receives credits and bonuses or free cruises with these segments.
What do you base this nonsense on?
Kinda curious. Did you discuss this with Guest Services while on the cruise?
Does the salty sea air shrink your clothes when you are on a cruise? Take care...
It does not
No, but the increased appetite from the salty sea air makes you feel like it did.
I lucked out. I was on a cruise where the captain was about to go home. He says bye bye when he’s done with his announcements. Normally I don’t cruise more than once a year. That year I did a Caribbean cruise and an Alaskan cruise. Second cruise I hear bye bye. The captain was back on another ship after his break. He signed a book with the wildlife expert. Both on Princess.
Behind the scenes people gets thrown around alot. People think engineers, captain, lifeguards, people who clean the windjammer, people who clean the pool, electricians, plumbers, dock workers etc ... Get the prepaid tips. That is false, waitstaff in the mdr, room attendants are the only ones who get the prepaid tips😊
Falling off a ship: I’m 6’2” and my center of balance/gravity is over the railing on about half of the cruise ship balconies I’ve been on. If I stand right next to the railing, they reach about mid-stomach; with even a little bit of force behind me, I could “tip” over. Such as, if I violently puked over the railing, was at all dizzy, I could possibly fall head over heels into the water. Imagine the sensation if the railings were only up to your knees! I’m actually surprised there aren’t a lot more overboard incidents of taller people.
Most people have common sense, whatever their height.
Question: I need to minimize my exposure to direct sunlight. Are there places to lounge/nap outside in fresh air, but in total shade?
Yes, there are tons of space like this.
@@brandonavants7662 ... Thank you so much!
Yep. Go watch a cruise blog/vlog for the ship you are going on. You will see a lot of spots.
How do cruise staff know when you have elected to pay automatic gratuities vs. paying them in cash?
Word gets around.
How often are bed sheets changed on a cruise?
I am pretty sure that they aren't on a 3-7 day cruise, but what about longer cruises?
Daily
No matter the length of the cruise. They are changed daily
No way on Earth are they changed daily!
It may look like it, but the sheets are the same.
They are DEFINITELY not changed every day. The beds are made every day, very well, but the sheets are the same ones as before.
Definitely not changed daily. However, on our 12 day cruises we requested clean sheets on day 5 or 6 (can't remember) and our stateroom attendant was happy to grant our request. 😊
When places like Mr Sanchos and Paradise Beach say to bring a towel from the ship, are they big enough? Do we need 2? Are they TOO big and buying something lighter weight and sand friendly is a better plan?
The cruise towels are fine. You can take two if you want. I don’t bother, bringing my own too much to fit in my suitcase.
@@dianawiggins3791 Yep.
I’ve never been on a watercraft of any kind since 1998 as im too afraid of getting seasick or motion sickness. What happens if I get on a cruise and I get sea sick? I think that will be a very lowsy way to spend seven days.
Do you go on carnival rides?
Fly on an airplane?
Ride in a car?
@@bugwar5545 No carnival rides, on planes all the time and very rarely as a passenger but not worried about it.
How do you get the Diamond plus free days of internet? Should you book ahead of time or wait until you're onboard? What about the discount from the casino?
To get the free day of diamond, you have to wait to book onboard. Same for casino
technically you can bring 1 bottle of wine per adult passenger for carry-on
One 750ml bottle to be precise.
Up to 2 adults in 1 cabin can bring a bottle of wine and up to 12 cans of soda, sparkling water, juice, or other non-alcoholic drinks. Usually, when you first board the ship. Some lines allow you to do so at ports of call, but most don't. Check your cruise line for their rules.
*GRATUITY question- Can the bartender see if you prepaid your gratuities when they run your seapass at the bar? You can see how this can easily affect the service. (they may bs the drink, not come back as often)
Prepaid gratuities do not go to bartenders. You are charged a "service fee" when you order a drink.
Prepaid gratuities aren’t for bartenders. That goes towards stateroom attendant and dining room
Staff
I thought when you buy the drink package there is prepaid gratuities on there that would go to the bartenders? 🤔
How does one use the three sea shells instead of TP?
Carefully.
If I'm not a beach, sun, pool kind of person, would I still enjoy a cruise?
I'm not a beach, sun, pool person either. Yes, you will enjoy your cruise, if you pick your cruise for the destinations. Alaska, Norway fiords, Greek Islands, Island hopping in the southern Caribbean are the four cruises that are nearly impossible to do any other way than cruising. I loved seeing those places and not having to pack up my suitcase every day. Many people like cruising for the ship. I even know one person that rarely goes on any excursions. They enjoy a week of relaxing at a luxury hotel with changing views and all the amenities. I cruise for the "unpack once, see many places" aspect of cruising.
@@veronicanolastname2467 Thanks. I was considering an Alaskan cruise so we are thinking along the same lines.
What if gratuities are included in the price when booked? I take you wont get charged twice then.
Correct. The info about gratuities are for primarily Americans
Depending which countries. whether you are used to or not on tips. even a few dollars to the crew members especially they went out of their way will really help them & their family. remember most crew members are from third world countries & are living below average cruisers. so, it would be very nice gesture to another person. just imagine you were the other way around.
Most of the time, overboards typically happen because the passenger is so drunk that they can't even control their own actions. As long as your responsible, you DEFINITELY WILL NOT be overboard.
I’m 6’2”, I could definitely fall overboard on some shorter balcony railings.
When you pay for speciality dining what % are they getting?
All of it.
The best way to save money on alcohol is to NOT drink alcohol.
That is a great idea!
Wish I had thought of that.
I'll add it to the other great idea - The best way to save money on a cruise is to NOT take a cruise.
Are the cruises decorated with Christmas decor in November?
My big question how are food allergies handled? Will i have to pay extra due to my food allergies
Definitely don’t have to pay extra. Let the staff know when you sit down and waiters are very helpful
On a previous cruise, our waitstaff really went above and beyond to take care of my food allergies, so I added an additional tip and thank-you note at the end. I feel that this would be appreciated. 😊
I used to think that there were no private restrooms, like it was Dorm style or something
I would love to go on a cruise, but due to the fact that I am a high risk of my illness. I’m scared that I might have an episode with my TTP, but I wanna go on the cruise so bad.😭 that’s why I enjoy watching your Vlog take care, my friend❤❤❤❤
You nevrr know whats available. Neighbor with diabetes in wheelchair requiring dialysis daily found cruise where drs skilled to handle this have volunteered to travel along on ship. Good luck.
Look for specialty cruises maybe through a good travel agent? A friend at work with a severely celiac affected daughter found a charter cruise for October that has seminars, nutritionists, and an entire dedicated restaurant serving all gluten free menu for the week of the cruise. This will allow her to go to Alaska with her daughter, husband and grandkids so much easier! While it is true all cruises have some gluten free / sugar free dining options, this type of cruise expanded that for peace of mind and enjoyment for all. Just an idea for you if helpful to know. I hope you find something that might work for you. 😊
Who or what is a 'TTP'?
Great video ❤❤❤❤
Just got back from a 4 night, on Navigator, and alot of the services have REALLY gone downhill, post pandemic. The Cafe Promenade had nowhere near the amount of food and sweets as before. The display was barren, and the pizza was awful.
Secondly, the crew were basically hiding out all cruise. Never saw Capt. James once, or Clo the Cruise Director. On all my past Royal cruises, I have seen these folks numerous times, per cruise. The guest services staff not only seemed disinterested, but couldn't understand the passengers.
Royal Caribbean needs to shape up. I cancelled my Sept. Cruise, because I was very dissatisfied!!!
Has anyone tried to bring a case of water or soda into the ship? If so, how did you do it?
Yes just bring it in your carryon bag on embarkation day
Great info! Another naive question for you: I will cruise for the first time with my husband and 2 year old daughter for 12 days. I understand the gratuity portion and my husband and I will gladly pay; but will my 2 year old daughter also be charged $216 in gratuity? Would it be rude if I ask guest services to not charge my daughter gratuities? I was thinking of leaving a tip on behalf of my daughter but not $216, but again I just want to do the right, so your advice would be greatly helpful.
I would do what your pocket affords. No I don’t think it would be rude to not pay $216 for a 2 year old.
So how did your cruise go?
@bugwar5545 I will be going in October. I'm excited and nervous. I am planning on staying a few days in Italy as well. God willing, it will all go well 🙏
@@stevebaig9564 okay. Thanks! 😊
@@estef8932 Have a fun cruise. As for the gratuity thing, did you call customer service to get a reading?
Do they charge gratuity for a 6 month old? I feel like that's excessive?
Yes they do
I would have gratuities removed for children.
@@Gottaknowhow do you do that?
@@ilovetopop go to guest services when you get on board and have it removed
Gratuities? Pay your workers living wage so that they don’t rely on gratuities.
They are paid a living wage.
Otherwise they wouldn't have taken the job.
I have a stupid question. I’m not sailing on Royal Caribbean, but in another major line. How do I get local currency? I understand that most of the shops near the port accept US dollars, but my daughter wants me to bring her back local currency from each country I visit. It’s not worth it to go find a bank etc since she just wants a small amount - like $5 worth. We will be sailing to the Caribbean in a couple of weeks.
You can probably get the foreign currency at the service counter, or maybe a cash machine on shore.
Buy something small in each location
@@emmib1388 do they give change in the local currency? If so, that’s a great idea!
@@tammystreasures8766 they will give you change based on what they have -- keep in mind, the cost will be in local currency so you have to convert to see if you are getting a good price but local street vendors will haggle with you.
@@tammystreasures8766 On my cruise I wanted some local currency to give to my neighbors on my return.
I simply went to a local vendor in each port and told them why I wanted it.
I paid for some trinket in dollars and got the change in whatever the locals used.
But you are allowed to bring a bottle wine per person, on board right??? 🚢🍾
Yes!
If you leave it in your checked luggage, you'll need to go to the naughty room to get it.
I don’t answer how much I tip the room steward. I don’t want to get flack from people. Removing gratuities is rude. Sorry if you don’t agree people. My sister says she’s afraid of pirates. Others don’t want to not see land. I wish I could find another female senior to travel with. Solo is expensive.
Have you talked to your church group?
Widen your social circle.
A lot of lines allow you to bring one bottle of wine per adult.
How do the waiters know you have paid gratuity already..
Simply put; gratuities should already be included in the price, but until then no one should be allowed to remove them under any circumstance.
Simply put, gratuities should be to reward outstanding service. Those that fail to do so do not deserve any extra cash.
I have a stupid question: are there free towels for the pool?
Yes absolutely 😊
Yes they have towels for you to use
Yes!
Thanks all!
Yes, but you have check them out with your room card. If you don't return them, then you are charged a fee (maybe $25 - I don't remember). If someone takes the one you checked it becomes a mess.
Is there a changing room at the pools?
Just a bathroom
And you aren't first changing in your room, why?
What free tv do you get in your room
A bunch of shipboard broadcasts.
On my last RCL cruise, there were movies on demand (many on newer ships), several ESPN type channels, CNN, Fox, Kids/Cartoons, and five channels of ship related broadcasts, like ship cameras with navigation map, Next Cruise advertising, Excursions details, a daily talk show hosted by the CD, and replays of some of the theater shows, ice skating show, and events like comedy show and water show, on Harmony
Cruises aren't for everyone. If you are bored, it's very possible that cruising just isn't for you.
Please don't got on Reddit and ask if you need a passport. YES, you should have one.
Don’t have to have one.
Can we bring water bottles on cruise?
Sure.
@@bugwar5545 thanks
I’ve never been on a fancy cruise like that ever in my life
Give it a try! A great way to take a vacation.
@@robertewalt7789 no thanks too expensive and I have a line medical conditions like epilepsy type two diabetes and after watching Titanic I’m actually terrified to try that idea
@@marieazrak1951 You must have really enjoyed 'Snakes on a Plane' before your last flight. Or 'Death Race 2000' before you rode to the grocery store.
If I’m paying for an overpriced cruise as it is, I kind of expect amazing service. Why make me pay for gratuities on top of the thousands I’m already paying?? Just build it into the price
From RCL Webpage: On embarkation day, each guest of drinking age may bring one (1) sealed 750 ml bottle of wine or champagne
We missed the Up next...
I asked a question in a solo group about the beds…whether or not to separate them? One person referred to my question as being “silly”. I deleted the post and left the group.
Wow, sorry that happened. Depending on the room layout, there can be more space when the bed is separated. Also if I am in a window cabin and the bed is under the window, I will ask to have the bed relocated to the side wall.
Does the cruise ship pay the service staff directly or do they pay them through employment agencies AKA human trafficking operations?
Human trafficking operations, of course.
RC allows guests to bring a bottle of wine on board. They will charge a $15 corkage fee though
Grab some wine glasses from any bar. Pour your drinks in your cabin. Walk to dinner with your wine.
Do they play the movie Titanic on the cruise?
Don't know about that, but we were on an island ferry in Panama which played "The Meg 2" on a loop for some reason.
Where?
Is there a movie theater on your ship?
I negotiate my own rules when I smuggle rum. Bootleggers always win. 😂
Adult fun on the balcony? Obviously not while on port. It’s on everyone’s mind.
Unpopular opinión, I am already expecting great service so just include the Gratuities in the price.
How is the water purity governed by U.S. Reg’n’s when most ships are REG’d to one of the Tiny Caribbean or South Seas Island countries which have NO REGULATIONS AT ALL for Cruise Ships (Skipping Tax Reg’ns & other Reg’n Compliance is why a lot of Cruise Lines register their Ships there - plus no pesky Police investigation when someone is raped or murdered on board!)
To the people who asked if the crew members actually slept on-board the ship:
think about it for a minute - unless they were taken off the ship by helicopter every night,
where else could they possibly sleep? Duh !
No crew sleep on the ship. They are fed amphetamines hourly to keep them alert for the 14 day cruise.
Totally none of these are embarrassing or questions that I wish would be answered in cruise videos. There are 2 questions I wish would be answered. Where are the public restrooms? If you do a ship tour point them out please. Some of us older people don't like to be too far from a restroom if you know what I mean. Another question that I would like answered is what happens if I have the drinks package but I want to buy a pretty young lady a drink? How do I do that? I know I cannot properly charge it on my drink package, so how do I do it?
You simply pay for it on your cruise account, payable at the end of the cruise on your credit card on record.
There are public bathrooms on most (all? ) of the decks with public areas or entertainment venues. They tend to be located near the elevator lobbies and staircases.
Embarrassing question: Why can't RC provide decent iced tea? Answer: Because they are too cheap to actually brew the tea on the ship. The iced tea is really terrible. We make hot tea from tea bags and then poor it over ice to get something drinkable.
Interesting. They don't make decent iced tea, yet the stuff they do put out gets drunk by the gallons.
Guess not everyone is as particular as you.
I am one of those people that can do absolutely nothing, and it would be everything to me. So my embarrassing question: do they have plungers in the bathrooms, or can it flush for the God's? 😂
No plunger, but the toilets have a vacuum suction similar to an airplane. It can handle a lot.
@@RoyalCaribbeanBlog but only the provided toilet paper can be flushed! Everything else needs to go into the garbage can.🙂
@@shelliepatton9568 Interesting. I believe it is because the shore side stuff is the wrong material for the waste filtering system the ship uses.
By paying auto-gratuities you're making it cheaper for RC to pay their employees. All tips given by customers don't increase the amount of money that employees make, but simply makes it so that RC can pay less.
It's like this: Lets say the Cruiseline promises a contract monthly wage of $1,000, that's made up like this:
1. $100.00 Basic Wage
2. TIPS
3. Any difference remaining (i.e. if the employee only receives $500 in tips, RC needs to pony up $500 to meet the Contractual price they were required to pay. If the employee receives $1,000 in tips, then RC doesn't have to pay anything over their $100.00 basic wage.)
This is why I refuse to pay the auto-gratuities and instead pay tips directly to the people I see and who serve me. RC HAS to pay everyone else the fees they agreed to on the boat. My server has agreed to work on the boat for $1,000 a month. He's always going to get that no matter what. If I give him a $50.00 he collects that and keeps it ON TOP of the $1,000 he's already getting. If I have my auto gratuities pay for these employees tips it means that it's less money RC has to pay. No thanks.
I sneak booze onboard and it has nothing to do with the cost of the drink package. I actually buy the drink package but still sneak stuff onboard. I like to have a few drinks before dinner while sitting on my balcony. It sucks to have to go to a bar (which is usually on a different floor) multiple times within 2 hours and then go back to my room. If they would let people who have bought the drink package buy a bottle of alcohol onboard and take it back to their room I wouldn’t sneak stuff onboard. I just wanna relax and pregame in my on my balcony without making 20 trips to the bar then back to my room.
I agree in concept, but people without the drink package could simply,y give those with it the money for a bottle and have them buy it for them. They kind of have to make a hard rule about it.
It is clear you don’t understand irrational fears. If I can’t see land I am going to be on edge. Also just knowing I can’t get away no matter how big the ship is will also be on edge.
if your fear is that irrational, there is nothing anyone can say or do to help you. You need medication and therapy😊
@@rosagignoux2546 there are millions of people that have fears. I wasn’t talking to you I was talking directly to Matt.
@@jonnyquest45 And yet you posted in a public forum and got upset when others responded.
Harris supporter, I take it?
Like # 2 question; how come Internet and the drink packages are charged separately from the cruise? Also, how come gratuities are charged for drink and/or packages upfront? I don’t pay for gratuities up front because I’d rather give tips directly to the people who help me the most. I don’t want to give tips to all of the crew members.
Not everyone wants a drink package or internet so they are charged separately.
Even if you purchase drinks a la carte and automatic tip of 18% is charged at the time of purchase.
@@julieb7882 Well, thats the point of my question, why 18% surcharge? I should have the choice to give tips if I get any type of drink package or not.
@@SilverHonda0767 they only give you the choice to tip more. You can choose not to cruise or find a cruieline with a different policy.
@@julieb7882 I’m sure all cruise 🚢 lines operate the same way with gratuities.
It's all about the money!
First, thank you for this informative video. I think 20.50 per day per guest is a little high. Does that include children?
In some of the other comments, they indicated that was so.
I guess your best bet is to contact the cruise line and get the details.
Tips are too high on most cruises. Cunard 2024 $14.50 each per day for balcony. Don't mind paying reasonable tips. Cruise prices keep increasing; need to pay their staff a reasonable wage instead of placing the guilt on the passengers. Tip flation, especially in the US is totally out of control. Tip jars/buckets everywhere you go.
Then tell Guest Services to reduce it.
sea sickness?
No, but thanks for asking.
I’m sorry, but “Will I be bored?” is a legit concern. From what I’ve seen, the entertainment options on a cruise aren’t very good.
Yep. If you want to be bored, then you will find a way to do so.
Only question is why would it matter if the water in the toilet is fresh or salt water?
So their dog won't get sick from drinking out of it.
If the water is distilled coming out the tap you say here why do you have to request distilled water for CPAP machines? Just use the distilled tap water. ( ewww).
It is not distilled water
@@emmib1388 he said so.
It is desalinated via reverse osmosis, but not necessarily distilled.
How are you 💓
Do not drink the water
Drink the water.
Believe it or not, I did get bored on RCI before....
Nope. I disbelieve!
No more free lobster????
Another YTber got free lobster at the solarium bistro on embarkation day.
We had lobster night on our RC cruise last week. The first lobster is free. The second (or third...) requires payment (I think it was $19).
Just don't tip and use that money on alcohol
You will be bored on a cruise ship if your aboring person
I am a boring person and I wasn't bored on my cruise.
Tired a lot, but not bored.
Gratuities are not a tip any longer.
They need to stop using that word.
Gratuities are still a tip.
If it wasn't, you couldn't remove it from your bill.
@@bugwar5545 If it is automatically added to your bill, and you have to jump through hoops to get it off, is it really psychologically optional? They know it isn't. That's why they don't wait for YOU to put it on your bill.
@@darthlaurel "...is it really psychologically optional?"
Yer funny.
Sad, but still funny.
If you can take it off by simply telling them to, it is real world optional.
Now If your psyche can't handle picking up a phone to tell someone else to not charge you, you got bigger problems than a gratuity fee.
Crew members are robots. They dont need sleep.
How come most of the crew members are foreigners? On my cruise last year on Independence of the Sea every crew member was a foreigner. I saw one white male crew member but he was from England.
Because they are cheaper
they have to work insane hours no american would do, i asked a crew memeber yesterday he does 77 hours a week 11 hours a day shift ...
@@Cory69 amen 🙏 to that. I don’t even want to work forty hours.
@@SilverHonda0767 🤣🤣🤣
@@firstof3cooks 😎
no you do not have to pay gratuities so you should not say that you should you should be advocating for this to be stopped it is a scam .we do not pay crew wages that is the company to do . name me anywhere else where to are asked after you purchase something the then say oh you now need to pay our employess wages. do walmart or amazon ask you.
Give them time. I am sure Walmart and Amazon both are working on it.
Embarrassing question: Will the cruise ship run out of fuel / food?
No, they prepare most food and beverages beforehand for the amount of passengers and certain docks they fuel up or restock certain items. They usually radio ahead to the next port if they need more of certain things like specialty beers or perishable foods. When you are boarding day 1, you will see the trucks and forklifts taking pallets of food, drinks, etc onto the ship!
during COVID, cruise ships were out at sea for extra couple of weeks and they still had food. not great food, but food
They occasionally do run out of certain items. Two I have personally experienced were ice tea and Diet Coke cans. A possible third might be certain brand(s) of beer but that could simply be a bar to bar difference.
It’s rare but it does happen. My sister’s MIL went on a short cruise and evidently there were a couple family groups on this cruise that wiped out the buffets. They also caused a few other problems that soured her on cruises.