OBC or Prepaid Gratuities?

[msfly]

A large TA offers either $250 OBC or prepaid gratuities for a 10-night sailing. Now, the OBC is $20 more than the gratuities - isn't it obvious to choose the OBC as it can be used to pay off the gratuities? Am I missing something?

[cb at sea]

Nope...I'd go the the OBC....and have the grats. added to my account once onboard. That means, tho, if you wish to do MTD, you need to wait until you board to book that, or they will make you pay those gratuities when you book, with your credit card!

[msfly]

OK, thanks. What is MTD?

[paul929207]

Take the OBC

 

MTD = My Time Dining. Go to dinner whenever you want. May be seated immediately, may have a wait. Just like going to a restaurant at home

[msfly]

Take the OBC

 

MTD = My Time Dining. Go to dinner whenever you want. May be seated immediately, may have a wait. Just like going to a restaurant at home

Paul - thanks. So if I choose early dining and missed the time, then it becomes MTD? Is there a chance the OBC cannot be used for gratuities? Can I get the remaining OBC as a refund?

 

This site has so much info - I'm trying to read as much as I can!

[paul929207]

I think MTD is the RCI version of open seating. You should probably ask these questions on the area for the cruise line. Each line has their own rules. I don't want to mislead you with answer for another line

[LHT28]

Paul - thanks. So if I choose early dining and missed the time, then it becomes MTD?

 

NO then you go to the buffet or order room service

 

If you choose traditional dining you have to show up ON TIME or find other place to eat

 

MTD is for those that choose the open dining venue

You cannot switch back & forth willy nilly

[paul929207]

NO then you go to the buffet or order room service

 

If you choose traditional dining you have to show up ON TIME or find other place to eat

 

MTD is for those that choose the open dining venue

You cannot switch back & forth willy nilly

I figured this was probably the answer, but was not sure as we have never sailed RCI

[msfly]

NO then you go to the buffet or order room service

 

If you choose traditional dining you have to show up ON TIME or find other place to eat

 

MTD is for those that choose the open dining venue

You cannot switch back & forth willy nilly

Oh OK. Room service is nice. Thanks!

[LHT28]

I figured this was probably the answer, but was not sure as we have never sailed RCI

I am sure it works the same on Princess

We had open dining on Princess & some people who missed their traditional dining time tried to get into the open dining room & were turned away

 

I have never sail on RCL so it may be different