Thread: Tipping: Included/volluntary?

I just returned from an AIDA cruise. It was my first cruise so I cannot compare it BUT!! I did like this aspect: Tipping was 'included' in the price of the ticket. There was near zero pressure to tip during the cruise. The exception was receiving a receipt with a space at the bottom for including a tip. But there was NEVER once a staffer that even hinted for a tip.

So, Is this the norm? How is tipping conducted/expected on other lines?

Most lines still have recommended amounts but you have the option of paying. Princess and NCL charge your account $10 a day per person for tips. You can add to this at the end of the cruise if you prefer. You can also lower the amount if you feel you've been served badly. On the only RCCL cruise we've taken, you had the option of adding tips to your account. If you chose to do so, they would give you slips with amounts on them which you would give to the personnell on the final night.

Is Aida aimed at the German market? this could be the reason why the tips were included with the price. I have travelled on several British orientated cruise lines ( not P and O) that include tips in the price. Mainly I believe because tipping is not an integral part of our culture. Maybe it's the same with the German's. NB although it's included I always tip for good service at the end of the cruise.

On the cruiselines that have tipping not included in the fare, the employees are counting on the money to send back home. Americans are very used to dealing with tipping in our restaurants, hotels, even Starbucks has a tip jar by the cash register. Possibly the reason that some lines have automatic tipping (which you can adjust at the purser's desk) is that many people have avoided passing out the tip envelopes at the end of the cruise.

We have never deducted from the auto tipping but have often increased the tip as well as presented a tip envelope to the kids' counselors who have kept our girl busy in the fun zone.

Thanks for this info. I am collecting it all!