Kermit426

When on a ship sponsored shore excursion is there a need to tip the guides, or is that included in the cost of the excursion. Certainly don't want to short the guides if we should tip, but really don't want to if gratuity is included. Of course service above and beyond will always be recognized in addition.

Thanks!

Interested in replies as well, as we will be on the Conquest for the first time in January.

Thanks for the answers. Getting very excited as we are under 40 days now.:D

Looking to leave for our first cruise in almost 10 years aboard the Conquest in January. Had a couple questions for recent cruisers. We are booked in a balcony cabin on deck 7 (Empress).

1. How are the room temps? Is it necessary to lug a portable fan?

2. Do they still have the "books" in the room about the ship, and are they still free if you ask your steward for one?

3. Are there any glasses in the room for beverages? I believe there is an ice bucket, but wondered about glasses. I am sure I could always borrow some from Lido if needed, just curious.

4. I have read that the fridges don't get too cold. Wondering if it is worth having steward empty of items to use for personal soda (have a child, so don't want any alcohol around, better safe than "ew this soda tastes funny." :D) Am bringing a small collapsible cooler for ice, so may just use that.

5. Do you know if the waterslide is open on port days? Thinking about skipping Belize as it is 3rd of 4 consecutive port days, and DS may need a break.

6. Any other tips of tricks you think would be helpful to know.

Thanks everyone!

Whew! Thanks for the response. It's my 7 year old's first cruise. DH and I would have been disappointed, but he'd have been crushed. Glad we are safe.

Sorry to hear about the OP's situation though.

Cruising in 41 days. Please tell me that a bump is not something that happens that close to cruising! We have insurance, but after 6+months of waiting and a lot of maneuvering to get time off, that would really be disappointing. I've never heard of this, but based on other responses I guess it happens. :confused: