From our experience on the Mariner and Voyager, no tipping means no tipping. We haven't tried and don't intend to do so. What we DO do, however is make a healthy contribution to the crew welfare fund at the reception desk in the middle of the voyage.

Keith and I have spoken to many different levels of the staff and are assured with - what we perceive as - sincerity that the money is put to good use providing parties for the crew as well as electrical devices like MP3 players and such.

Although we adore several specific members of every cruise, we recognize that teamwork and comraderie among the staff is the foundation of our wonderful service. If we can contribute to their happiness as a whole, we feel like we're "tipping" the entire ship.

My two-cents on this one!
Cheers! <img border="0" alt="[vhappy]" title="" src="graemlins/icon_vhappy.gif" />

Ash