DWBirdman

Not really. Tips, for many, are a reward for a job well done, above the expected. For me, if I go to dinner and my basic needs are met, then a minimal gratuity may be given. However, if the service is engaging and extending my experience (i.e. recommendations, personalized service, extra benefits) then the gratuity will reflect that service. A line item on the bill means that all optional and extended gratuities are put away.

That's what I am finding odd. With RC for instance, by the time we disembarked, the accounts were already paid. With MSC we are still in limbo...

Similar here. I liked RCs way of addressing this. They offered us the ability to add a "gratuity" when purchasing our vacation. They also informed us that we could forego that option and tip as we desired while on board. My entire family was quite surprised with everyone (including children) received a charge on their account for Hotel Services Charge. When asked about this charge and why it was being charged to children, MSC responded that the HSC was for all of those servicing our room, table, etc. This fee directly impacted my independent tipping as an additional $1000+ dollars was attempting to be charged to me post boarding. I had the kids charges removed. The cabin steward and waiter in the MDR lost out due to this tactic.

Just returned from a cruise on the MSC Seaside. Quite a change from RC. Anyway, how long does MSC take to settle account balances? It has been 2 days and we have not seen the drafts come through.