Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Gratuities and the Onboard Account

Some more answers to questions some of us have had. These questions and answers reflect what we will find on the Rhapsody.

Slightly contrary to the Beaudoin's experience on two previous cruises, Royal Caribbean states that "Gratuities are voluntary and at the discretion of each guest."

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Q:  What are the gratuity guidelines for cruises?

A:  Our suggested gratuity guidelines take in account our crew members that work hard to provide and maintain the highest level of service while sailing the high seas. Whether working behind the scenes or serving your evening meal, our staff and crew make sure you enjoy every moment spent onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

The daily amounts below have been calculated with this in mind. For new bookings that set sail on or after July 1, 2011, the suggested gratuities are:
Waiter: $3.75 USD a day per guest
Assistant Waiter: $2.15 USD a day per guest
Head Waiter: $.75 USD a day per guest
Stateroom Attendant/
Other Housekeeping Services:
$5.00 USD a day per guest
Suite Attendant/
Other Housekeeping Services:
$7.25 USD a day per guest

Gratuities are voluntary and at the discretion of each guest. These guidelines serve as suggestions to help guest express their gratitude for the outstanding service they experience on their Royal Caribbean cruise vacation.

Note: These gratuities apply to guests of all ages. Gratuities for other service personnel are at your discretion. A 15% gratuity will automatically be added to any purchases in the bar, dining room, spa services and salon services.

Notice to guests: Gratuities may be shared with other crew members depending on the particular service requirement.

Envelopes for gratuities will be provided in your stateroom on the last night of the cruise. Gratuities may be paid in the following ways:
Pre-paid by having them added to your reservation by your booking agent.
Added to your onboard SeaPass account.
Paid in cash at the end of the cruise

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 Q:  What is an Onboard Expense Account? How does it work?
A:  An Onboard Expense Account is the cashless system used for all onboard purchases and services.

The account may be set-up with either a credit card or as a cash account.  You may establish a master account and add guests from your stateroom or another stateroom as authorized purchasers on your account.

For each purchase made onboard the ship you will receive a receipt at the point of sale.  A final statement will be delivered to your stateroom on the last night of your cruise vacation for your review.

Guests that set up an account with a credit card should verify the statement.  If all purchases are correct, they will automatically be billed to the credit card.

Guests on a cash account will need to settle their statement onboard prior to disembarking.  The ship will provide you with specific details.

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