Can you stand one more cruise question?

If you book through Carnival, they add on a 10% gratuity, than you tip whatever else you see fit when you at the end of the cruise. Is that better than paying the whole amount when you are on the ship?

TIA

One more thing. I don't know if we should choose a table of 4-6 or 7-10. Do you sit with the same people every night? What if you get stuck with 2 people you just don't like

Message edited 8/30/2005 2:25:25 PM.

Re: Can you stand one more cruise question?

We took Princess and were charged 10% daily. We gave extra tip to the valet.

As far as meals, we were on the open meal plan, where you could dine any time you wanted and with whomever you wanted - sometimes we ate alone, sometimes with nice people, and once...with a very obnoxious guy. When you have open seating you don't really get to know anyone, so that is the only drawback to me. You can sign up for one and if you don't like the people at your table, ask to be changed.

Re: Can you stand one more cruise question?

I don't understand your tip question.

And I can't help you decide what size table to sit at.

But I can tell you that if you don't like the people you are sitting with, you tell the head waiter and they'll change you. No question.

Re: Can you stand one more cruise question?

It seems like most ships are now adding gratuity automatically now. We were just on Norwegian and they did. It was $10 a day per person and then they add 15% onto your checks from the bar. We felt it was easier.

As far as seating, we had freestyle cruising so we went top dinner whenever we wanted. When I have been on the traditional cruises I usually take the 7-10p option. If you end up hating someone you can always ask to be moved.

Re: Can you stand one more cruise question?

Thanks Ladies!

Re: Can you stand one more cruise question?

I am clueless about the tipping, but every cruise I ever went on, we always had a great time with the strangers at the table.