I always give a good contribution to the crew welfare fund before the end of the cruise and normally get a thank you note from the fund treasurer. I understand that names of those donating to the fund are posted in the crew lounge so they'll all know you gave. Also, the crew elects the fund's officers and they vote on what is done with the money in the fund. There is no control over it by ship's officers or Regent management so it's a true crew fund.

Several cruisers I know find out what their stewardess' interests are or if she has children and then buy her a gift in a port or two instead of tipping. That fits better with the "no tipping" concept.