I cruised many years ago when the ships were small, and I loved the personal touch with the crew members that I got to know. I hate formality, so I felt excluded on "formal nights" which I spent in my cabin. Today''s megaships are like a floating Las Vegas, and if that's what you like, that's where you should go. Unlimited alcoholic drinks encourage drunks. I usually booked cruise line excursions because back then they knew the best places to see, they were safer, and they always got back before the deadline. The cruise is a good place to truly vacation away from online demands. I prefer that the cruise fare include all the amenities and not nickel-and-dime me for "extras". I wouldn't mind children on board, but lately too many parents just turn them loose without any rules or guidance.
I don’t have a problem with the automatic gratuities, as long as the money is actually going to the workers. These people work long hours 7 days per week, and I usually give extra to our cabin steward and others who directly take care of us.
I've been on one Cruise, and it is called 70,000 Tons Of Metal. It is a Cruise dedicated to the genre of music known as Heavy Metal. I loved it, and plan on going back, every year. It is on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. The only other Cruise I want to go on is Headbangers Boat. However, going on ships like "Icon Of The Seas," sounds tempting.
@@Eatsleepcruise1 It's simple, People had more discretion, decorum & restraint. When they went on these trips they were better dressed, but that also came with more common sense and respect. You didn't see fights every other month. People cutting in lines, trying to sneak a case full of booze on board. Vacations (of all types really) were thought of as a luxury and privilege, not to be taken for granted, not an entitled right. Even the lowest class stateroom today would be at or near first class on many ships from the past, but it's not appreciated.
Great video! Always showing both sides for each topic! Very interesting. You hear the first part and you think "that's true", then you hear the other part and you think "that's also true." 😅
Our next cruise is on Windstar Star Breeze, we chose a porthole cabin, it’s about the same size as a balcony cabin. Their balcony is just a Juliet - I don’t want to pay that much for fresh air. No matter which cabin you get you’re all going to the same places.
We love Royal but may switch to Celebrity or even silver seas once we hit pinnacle. That way we can take our status with us. With formal nights- we hate getting dressed up. Royal isn't strict so we just wear dark pant and dark long sleeve tees to be less distracting while being comfy.
No. What? Anytime Dining does NOT let you eat "anywhere" you want. Of course, any person (even those with assigned late or early dining times) can eat anywhere they want if it's in one of the non dining rooms. But what "Anytime Dining" does is let you eat at one of the Main Dining Rooms (MDR), for seated service, with the same menu, but on a flexible schedule. It's NOT ANYWHERE ANYTIME. That's the buffet.
While I do pay the automatic tips they are really a surcharge so I get why people have an issue with the way cruise lines handle this. Prefer the old method of cash but also understand some cruisers didn’t tip, either due to their culture or because they were just cheap! Seems a no win for the cruise line.
Auto gratutituies are disgusting. The cruise line should pay their staff appropriately and charge customers appropriately. Then tips can go back to being a genuine gesture given to someone that offers exemplary service. I pay it because it's the current system to ensure people are paid a decent wage, but cruise lines need to be reminded as often as possible that the practice is absolutely immoral.
Imagine removing the gratuity when their are hundreds or more staff working towards the cruisers comfort. There.are.also other cruise podcasts recommending not to tip extra! These people think that they are plantation owners and treat the staff as such.
Adults only seems like a good idea, but then people forget that every 18-21yo thinks they're an adult, so you really gain nothing, imho. I experienced this on a cruise for my honeymoon 12 years ago, and unfortunately, not having children, didn't realize we booked during spring break. All the hot tubs and the primary pools were full of young kids and teens and the "adults" pool (Royal) at the back of the ship was all the college-age kids (we were in our 40s). We ended up spending most of the time in our room (not a bad thing on a honeymoon) and only being able to use a pool while in port. If it's truly "adult", then exactly what age should that start???
Have you done a Viking Explorer cruise? If yes, what do you think about it. We like the smaller ships and recently started doing river cruising - different and in many ways better but still with some minus. Looking forward to good weather in Antartica in February.
Do you mean a Viking expedition? We did do one in the Caribbean as part of a preview cruise. Great vessel. We sailed to Antarctica with Atlas and it was phenomenal. Have you watched our Antarctica video?
My cruise mate does not believe in tipping when we go out for the day i like to leave a small jesture to acknowledge their work.....she doesnr....what should I do ?????please answer
Like many, you just skim the surface in referencing all of your points. As well, from your nose bleed status on your favorite line just how can you relate to all of the people that scrimp and save to maybe able to afford one cruise a year? It's obvious that you have your favorite wants, especially for cabins and dining. But neglecting the many reasons for alternative views does a big disservice to those new to cruising. To you, an outside cabin does not exist and the many downsides of fixed time dining on the new megaships is not evan hinted at.
Yes cruising was better in the past; more affordable, and relaxing. Automatic gratuities are the norm and don’t bother me. Asking for more bothers me; One cruise line gets you few perks so cruise itinerary over line; Dress nice for formal night, jeans, shorts and t-shirts should get banned Yes the big ships are too bigs; Buy a drink package if you drink. If not - don’t. Once you go balcony you probably don’t want to go back; Yes pay more and do cruise line excursions the added insurance is worth it; Buy wifi if you need it otherwise don’t; yes its expensive. I’d rather they not be all inclusive because then I’m paying for something I don’t care for. Adult oriented doesn’t matter to me; I’m fond of Princess and am in their “elite” status which isn’t worth it.
Cruising has been ruined by UA-camrs and so called influencers. These people take the enjoyment and excitement out of cruising with their constant complaining. It’s unfortunate that we will never have the eye opening experience of boarding a cruise ship for the first time. We are bombarded with privileged cruisers who have made it their job to clickbait people.
@ you’re correct, I should stop watching UA-cam videos on cruising because UA-camrs take away the enjoyment and excitement out of cruising with their constant complaining and clickbait. I appreciate your advice. Enjoy your next cruise and happy Thanksgiving.
Do you tip in restaurants and bars on land? For many workers in these places, tips are vital to their making a living wage. I personally prefer the prepaid gratuities so I can pay for them in advance. But, I don't like the shared gratuities because that doesn't reward those who give better service.
It is not usual to tip in Australia apart from exceptional service. Service staff are well paid and that is covered in the price of drinks and dishes served. It’s a cultural thing. Trouble is cruise lines really take advantage of tipping. They should pay their staff appropriately. My thoughts anyway. Cruising is not for me anymore.
Folks who withdraw gratuities on the last day should be charged a 50% penalty. It screams “cheap bastard.” As for Formal Nights, they’re a relic from the past, particularly on Family Friendly ships. And finally, no one stops to think how darned difficult it is on the wait staff to serve folks at a group of tables where everyone is coming and going at different times. It’s easy on the guests and murder on the staff.
I cruised many years ago when the ships were small, and I loved the personal touch with the crew members that I got to know. I hate formality, so I felt excluded on "formal nights" which I spent in my cabin. Today''s megaships are like a floating Las Vegas, and if that's what you like, that's where you should go. Unlimited alcoholic drinks encourage drunks. I usually booked cruise line excursions because back then they knew the best places to see, they were safer, and they always got back before the deadline. The cruise is a good place to truly vacation away from online demands. I prefer that the cruise fare include all the amenities and not nickel-and-dime me for "extras". I wouldn't mind children on board, but lately too many parents just turn them loose without any rules or guidance.
Why?
I don’t have a problem with the automatic gratuities, as long as the money is actually going to the workers. These people work long hours 7 days per week, and I usually give extra to our cabin steward and others who directly take care of us.
We feel the same way. Who do you typically cruise with?
I've been on one Cruise, and it is called 70,000 Tons Of Metal. It is a Cruise dedicated to the genre of music known as Heavy Metal. I loved it, and plan on going back, every year. It is on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. The only other Cruise I want to go on is Headbangers Boat. However, going on ships like "Icon Of The Seas," sounds tempting.
Auto gratuity is 100% a hidden fee. The only grateful thing is that it’s stated before you pay.
Old cruising WAS better AND worse. The ships were worse, less to do and not as comfortable, but the PEOPLE were better, both in crew and passenger!
How were the people better?
@@Eatsleepcruise1 It's simple, People had more discretion, decorum & restraint. When they went on these trips they were better dressed, but that also came with more common sense and respect. You didn't see fights every other month. People cutting in lines, trying to sneak a case full of booze on board. Vacations (of all types really) were thought of as a luxury and privilege, not to be taken for granted, not an entitled right.
Even the lowest class stateroom today would be at or near first class on many ships from the past, but it's not appreciated.
Crew is a crapshoot. But I've found Royal Caribbean crew treat us like royalty
Alaska is the only time that I need a balcony, for the sightseeing and the cold air.❤️
That was our first time getting one. What do you typically book?
Great video! Always showing both sides for each topic! Very interesting. You hear the first part and you think "that's true", then you hear the other part and you think "that's also true." 😅
Then-then-then-it regards time!
@@amandareiche9083, grazie per la precisazione, ho corretto il testo
Thanks for watching. We tried to show both sides of each issue.
Our next cruise is on Windstar Star Breeze, we chose a porthole cabin, it’s about the same size as a balcony cabin. Their balcony is just a Juliet - I don’t want to pay that much for fresh air. No matter which cabin you get you’re all going to the same places.
Traditional Dining--get to know table mates well, know and be known by your waiters, enjoy making stronger connections.
That’s what we enjoy! Which cruise line do you typically sail on?
We love Royal but may switch to Celebrity or even silver seas once we hit pinnacle. That way we can take our status with us. With formal nights- we hate getting dressed up. Royal isn't strict so we just wear dark pant and dark long sleeve tees to be less distracting while being comfy.
No. What? Anytime Dining does NOT let you eat "anywhere" you want. Of course, any person (even those with assigned late or early dining times) can eat anywhere they want if it's in one of the non dining rooms. But what "Anytime Dining" does is let you eat at one of the Main Dining Rooms (MDR), for seated service, with the same menu, but on a flexible schedule. It's NOT ANYWHERE ANYTIME. That's the buffet.
You’ve obviously never been on a Regent cruise. Yikes.
While I do pay the automatic tips they are really a surcharge so I get why people have an issue with the way cruise lines handle this. Prefer the old method of cash but also understand some cruisers didn’t tip, either due to their culture or because they were just cheap! Seems a no win for the cruise line.
Yes and yes. Every luxury brands like Viking still have the suggested tipping.
Auto gratutituies are disgusting. The cruise line should pay their staff appropriately and charge customers appropriately. Then tips can go back to being a genuine gesture given to someone that offers exemplary service. I pay it because it's the current system to ensure people are paid a decent wage, but cruise lines need to be reminded as often as possible that the practice is absolutely immoral.
We pay it too as the crew are amazing. Who do you typically cruise with?
Do you really think cruise workers get our gratuities? They get a fraction of what we pay. The rest as they say, goes into 'Consolidated Revenue'.
@@Aust-NZ-SPandtheworld and the revenue of the company pays the workers. Try to read the words I wrote.
Yes! They avoid employee tax for the tipped amount of income. We pay tax on the compulsory tips.
Being paid that way tips the behind the scenes as well as the crew you see !
That kid at 1:42 had me cackling 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 I've re-watched out over and over
Are we missing something?
@Eatsleepcruise1 the child in the pool 😂😂😂 I was thinking "That's a nice pool" then he just threw himself in there 😂😂😂😂
Me seeing your comment as it happened 😂
Great video! Very interesting subjects and perspectives. Cheers! 😀
Hi, not sure where to find the information about the shore excursions?
The link doesn't seem to be there.
Thanks 😊
Imagine removing the gratuity when their are hundreds or more staff working towards the cruisers comfort. There.are.also other cruise podcasts recommending not to tip extra! These people think that they are plantation owners and treat the staff as such.
I totally agree.
Adults only seems like a good idea, but then people forget that every 18-21yo thinks they're an adult, so you really gain nothing, imho. I experienced this on a cruise for my honeymoon 12 years ago, and unfortunately, not having children, didn't realize we booked during spring break. All the hot tubs and the primary pools were full of young kids and teens and the "adults" pool (Royal) at the back of the ship was all the college-age kids (we were in our 40s). We ended up spending most of the time in our room (not a bad thing on a honeymoon) and only being able to use a pool while in port. If it's truly "adult", then exactly what age should that start???
Right now it's Princess, have a week planned aboard the Sun Princess next May. But considering MSC Yacht Club for our next cruise.
Horizon bound in 2026. First time cruiser here
Awesome. Let us know if you have any questions. What itinerary?
I have only heard great things about the last Margaritaville ship!
Nice transitions
Have you done a Viking Explorer cruise? If yes, what do you think about it. We like the smaller ships and recently started doing river cruising - different and in many ways better but still with some minus. Looking forward to good weather in Antartica in February.
Do you mean a Viking expedition? We did do one in the Caribbean as part of a preview cruise. Great vessel. We sailed to Antarctica with Atlas and it was phenomenal. Have you watched our Antarctica video?
@@Eatsleepcruise1 No I have not watched your Antarctica video, but I will be looking for it now - thanks!
My cruise mate does not believe in tipping when we go out for the day i like to leave a small jesture to acknowledge their work.....she doesnr....what should I do ?????please answer
Like many, you just skim the surface in referencing all of your points. As well, from your nose bleed status on your favorite line just how can you relate to all of the people that scrimp and save to maybe able to afford one cruise a year? It's obvious that you have your favorite wants, especially for cabins and dining. But neglecting the many reasons for alternative views does a big disservice to those new to cruising. To you, an outside cabin does not exist and the many downsides of fixed time dining on the new megaships is not evan hinted at.
Cruising has lost the elegance,, and somewhat pampered situation, of former cruising.
So, you are in the nostalgia camp?
@@Eatsleepcruise1 I enjoy the somewhat elegance, and to be pampered at times.
I'm firmly in the casual attire camp, my food will taste the same regardless of what I (or anyone else) is wearing.
There are still plenty of opportunities for elegant and pampered cruising - if you are willing to stay away from the mega ships.
Yes cruising was better in the past; more affordable, and relaxing.
Automatic gratuities are the norm and don’t bother me. Asking for more bothers me;
One cruise line gets you few perks so cruise itinerary over line;
Dress nice for formal night, jeans, shorts and t-shirts should get banned
Yes the big ships are too bigs;
Buy a drink package if you drink. If not - don’t.
Once you go balcony you probably don’t want to go back;
Yes pay more and do cruise line excursions the added insurance is worth it;
Buy wifi if you need it otherwise don’t; yes its expensive.
I’d rather they not be all inclusive because then I’m paying for something I don’t care for.
Adult oriented doesn’t matter to me;
I’m fond of Princess and am in their “elite” status which isn’t worth it.
Cruising has been ruined by UA-camrs and so called influencers. These people take the enjoyment and excitement out of cruising with their constant complaining. It’s unfortunate that we will never have the eye opening experience of boarding a cruise ship for the first time. We are bombarded with privileged cruisers who have made it their job to clickbait people.
No one is forcing you to watch.
@ you’re correct, I should stop watching UA-cam videos on cruising because UA-camrs take away the enjoyment and excitement out of cruising with their constant complaining and clickbait. I appreciate your advice. Enjoy your next cruise and happy Thanksgiving.
They haven't ruined my cruising, because I don't follow that nonsense.
Aren’t you wonderful
🙏
Rubbish about tipping😢. Cruise lines should pay appropriately and all would be ok. It’s all crap this tipping. Obviously is best for the cruise line.
Do you tip in restaurants and bars on land? For many workers in these places, tips are vital to their making a living wage.
I personally prefer the prepaid gratuities so I can pay for them in advance. But, I don't like the shared gratuities because that doesn't reward those who give better service.
It is not usual to tip in Australia apart from exceptional service. Service staff are well paid and that is covered in the price of drinks and dishes served. It’s a cultural thing. Trouble is cruise lines really take advantage of tipping. They should pay their staff appropriately. My thoughts anyway. Cruising is not for me anymore.
Folks who withdraw gratuities on the last day should be charged a 50% penalty. It screams “cheap bastard.” As for Formal Nights, they’re a relic from the past, particularly on Family Friendly ships. And finally, no one stops to think how darned difficult it is on the wait staff to serve folks at a group of tables where everyone is coming and going at different times. It’s easy on the guests and murder on the staff.