Jaffaoz

Yes you almost have the no tipping policy almost right.

I do not tip, full stop for obvious reasons.

Yes the expectations do rise that the tip will become the norm.

It also happens on Silversea.

But the one piece of advice l would give those that do want to recognize a particular crew member more than just give them a praise in the questionnaire or a back slap to the hotel director is to name them on the crew fund donation which l do every cruise.

I place a very nice very short note to the Purser.

"Dear Sir,

Thank you for a wonderful cruise once again, please accept this well deserved donation to the crew fund on my behalf.

The reason for this donation is due to the amazing service l received from Mary Smith my suite attendant.

Please pass on to the crew committee my sincere thanks for Mary's service and l would be great full for the crew to know it was Mary who was responsible for my donation.

Well done Mary."

Yours sincerely,

Mr Jaffa

SB and SS have a no tipping policy.

It is important to follow the rules.

The cruise lines are very particular about not doing this.

The crew fund is there for everyone, even the crew we never see.

It is unfair to pick one or two over everyone else.

Plus it is not good for morale with crew being diveded in to the haves and the have not's.

How about the observation lounge Markham, my last 3 cruises on SB have been dreadful up there.

How is it now?

That was probably the biggest complaint l had heard all over the ship on most cruises.

For me it really is unbearable up there now.

I think suites and balcony's are pot luck. You just never know who your neighbors are going to be. It can make the whole experience a bit of a downer.

In fact on my Odyssey cruise in January It was not my neighbors as they did not smoke, but 2 single women 3 cabins forward from mine.

I was a little embarrassed actually because when l complained hotel staff put a note under the doors of my neighbors directly beside me.

Needless to say they took offense :confused:

So at the end of the day I think on SB you just have to take it or leave it.

Now l just grin and bear it......