DCL cruisers tried Royal...

[kiford]

I'm glad that you've never had a disappointing cruise elsewhere. I have, so I shared about it.

I'm sorry that people who found my review helpful make you sad.

I, for one, did enjoy your review and it was helpful. We have been looking at other cruise lines and while RCL was never one of my shortlisted ones (mostly due to indoor smoking), we have been watching a number of different vlogs and several of those are on Royal. It pretty much convinced us that it's just not for us (completely outside of the smoking thing which is also mentioned on those reviews). Your review also gave me pretty much the same vibe - it's just not for us. I'm not keen on the notion of spending thousands of dollars on a cruise - even if it's less than I'd spend on DCL - just to try it out unless I have a reasonable idea that it will fit our style and interests.

 

[tidefan]

Exactly. At a buffet there are still people refilling your drinks, clearing your used dishes, turning over the table, etc. Absolutely you should tip at a buffet. Those servers probably work harder than the bartender who pours you a shot of a super expensive bourbon but takes 20% of that as a tip.

And if you aren’t willing to tip on a cruise, then you shouldn’t go on a cruise. Period. Unless you bring your own sheets, clean your own room everyday, turn over your room and completely clean it on disembarkation day, make your own food, serve yourself all food, do all your dishes, etc.

Wow, let's take things out of context why don't we. First, the question wasn't if we should tip the buffet server, it was why is the buffet server making the same percentage as the person over at the full service restaurant who does a lot more for each table. Look, I am all about tipping good service, but I think that these two things are not equivalent.

Second, where did I ever say "don't tip on a cruise"? I am all about tipping on a cruise when that is how they have their system set up. I said that I preferred the Virgin Voyages system that just includes all that up front so that you don't have to worry about it.

Lastly, I am still drawing the line at tipping the person working the Chipotle register no matter how many times they swing the tablet around to me...

 

[tidefan]

When you sit down at Boma, are there dirty dishes on the table? Folks tend to use a lot of dishes at buffets, do you clear as well?

So, they are equivalent to the server at Jiko? That is what you are saying.

 

[auntlynne]

Wow. I’m even more worried now. My DD is getting married on this same ship next year but going to Aruba and Curcao and Coco Cay. We’ve only done Alaska and it was a smaller ship. This doesn’t sound good at all.

Knowing what you are getting really does help. It will be different than AK on a smaller ship. Just having the pool deck used for sunbathing will be different.

Check out Royal Caribbean Blog or watch some YouTube videos about Oasis to get some insight. Some videos are helpful, others I FF through.

Actually, the RCCL app or website can be helpful.

Know that booking activities opens earlier than on Disney.

Look for info on dining options and activities/shows - specifically if you need a reservation for anything.

We are early diners and did not have a problem nor long wait for a table (and getting the same table and servers, though not assigned, was similar to a Disney experience).

You do check-out beach/pool towels - and need to check them back in to avoid a (hefty) room charge. Just don’t be careless.

My complaints about Royal were smoke (a lot of ships have new rules and better circulation), itinerary (that was my mistake) and lack of launderette (if I had known, we would have packed differently).

If you were to look up Royal for concerns, the biggest would be “chair hogs.” Across the fleet, this seems to be a never-ending war. Guests go out very early and claim a sun lounger - then head to breakfast or back to the room…

Your itinerary sounds great. Both Aruba and Curaçao are easy to visit. And docking at Coco Cay beats tendering at many of the private islands.

The water theater is a unique and different entertainment option.

 

[Mango7100]

Wow, let's take things out of context why don't we. First, the question wasn't if we should tip the buffet server, it was why is the buffet server making the same percentage as the person over at the full service restaurant who does a lot more for each table. Look, I am all about tipping good service, but I think that these two things are not equivalent.

Second, where did I ever say "don't tip on a cruise"? I am all about tipping on a cruise when that is how they have their system set up. I said that I preferred the Virgin Voyages system that just includes all that up front so that you don't have to worry about it.

Lastly, I am still drawing the line at tipping the person working the Chipotle register no matter how many times they swing the tablet around to me...

Sorry I wasn’t referring to you not tipping on a cruise. There was another poster who seems to take issue with tipping because they don’t “need” anything on a cruise that warrants a tip. I missed hitting reply to that poster and it lumped my response together.

To be fair about context, you did say that why would you tip a server 15-18% at a buffet when the “only thing, and I mean the only thing that they do is bring drinks” My point is they do more than that. Have you not had dishes cleared from a buffet once they were used?

I think it gets dicey about percentages and what qualifies as good service. The tipping system is flawed for sure. To use my previous example, is a bartender who pours you a $100 scotch one time giving more service/working harder than the server who serves your app/entree/dessert for $100? I don’t think so, but they make the same amount if you go by percentages.

 

[tidefan]

Sorry I wasn’t referring to you not tipping on a cruise. There was another poster who seems to take issue with tipping because they don’t “need” anything on a cruise that warrants a tip. I missed hitting reply to that poster and it lumped my response together.

To be fair about context, you did say that why would you tip a server 15-18% at a buffet when the “only thing, and I mean the only thing that they do is bring drinks” My point is they do more than that. Have you not had dishes cleared from a buffet once they were used?

I think it gets dicey about percentages and what qualifies as good service. The tipping system is flawed for sure. To use my previous example, is a bartender who pours you a $100 scotch one time giving more service/working harder than the server who serves your app/entree/dessert for $100? I don’t think so, but they make the same amount if you go by percentages.

I get it, I do, but what rubbed me the wrong way was the last time we were at Boma, all the server did was bring drinks and the bill. That was it. There was a busser that did remove some plates. However, I just don't think servers at buffets are equivalent to those at full-service, yet if you are a party of 6 or more, it is 18% at either one. I had always thought buffets were 10% of the bill. Not trying to start a tipping thread, mind you, but rather just trying to go by what is expected (and that's where the problem is...)

According to Emily Post (who I think is the main "etiquette" person that people know about):
https://emilypost.com/advice/general-tipping-guide

The following chart covers tipping guidelines for three of the most common times tipping is expected: at restaurants, during travel, and at salons.

Restaurants:​

Service	Appropriate Tip
Wait service (sit down)	15-20%, pre-tax
Wait service (buffet)	10%, pre-tax

 

[RedHead0186]

I think it gets dicey about percentages and what qualifies as good service. The tipping system is flawed for sure. To use my previous example, is a bartender who pours you a $100 scotch one time giving more service/working harder than the server who serves your app/entree/dessert for $100? I don’t think so, but they make the same amount if you go by percentages.

I know I'm not the person you're replying to, but I wanted to add my $0.02 to this. For drinks only (like sitting at a bar), I don't tip on percentage. If they're serving me a beer, it's a $1-2 tip. Pouring me a glass of wine, maybe $2-3. I tip higher for mixed drinks because they take more effort. If the bartender is attentive/responsive, friendly, etc. then I'll add a little more to that. Maybe I'll get yelled at for this, but I don't think a bartender automatically should get the same percentage as a server who's taking your order, bringing food, etc.

 

[snowwite]

Knowing what you are getting really does help. It will be different than AK on a smaller ship. Just having the pool deck used for sunbathing will be different.

Check out Royal Caribbean Blog or watch some YouTube videos about Oasis to get some insight. Some videos are helpful, others I FF through.

Actually, the RCCL app or website can be helpful.

Know that booking activities opens earlier than on Disney.

Look for info on dining options and activities/shows - specifically if you need a reservation for anything.

We are early diners and did not have a problem nor long wait for a table (and getting the same table and servers, though not assigned, was similar to a Disney experience).

You do check-out beach/pool towels - and need to check them back in to avoid a (hefty) room charge. Just don’t be careless.

My complaints about Royal were smoke (a lot of ships have new rules and better circulation), itinerary (that was my mistake) and lack of launderette (if I had known, we would have packed differently).

If you were to look up Royal for concerns, the biggest would be “chair hogs.” Across the fleet, this seems to be a never-ending war. Guests go out very early and claim a sun lounger - then head to breakfast or back to the room…

Your itinerary sounds great. Both Aruba and Curaçao are easy to visit. And docking at Coco Cay beats tendering at many of the private islands.

The water theater is a unique and different entertainment option.

Thank you. Chair hogs are awful. It’s usually not allowed but there will always be some entitled people. Smoke is a big concern. I have asthma and when we booked it looked like smoking is not allowed even on the balcony so I’m really disappointed to hear that it’s strong by the pool. I will be avoiding the casino. We’ve been to Aruba but not Curaçao. I wondered if the island would be tender or docking. It’s definitely easier to dock. I still can’t believe we all have to go on an 8 day cruise for the wedding! I practically begged them to wed in port then they could cruise and we could get off the boat. We will have to make the best of it.

 

[Mango7100]

I know I'm not the person you're replying to, but I wanted to add my $0.02 to this. For drinks only (like sitting at a bar), I don't tip on percentage. If they're serving me a beer, it's a $1-2 tip. Pouring me a glass of wine, maybe $2-3. I tip higher for mixed drinks because they take more effort. If the bartender is attentive/responsive, friendly, etc. then I'll add a little more to that. Maybe I'll get yelled at for this, but I don't think a bartender automatically should get the same percentage as a server who's taking your order, bringing food, etc.

Yea I tend to do it the way you do as far as drinks. But on a cruise ship it’s all automatic percents on drinks which I think overtips some drinks compared to what a server at the MDR makes. It would be nice if servers were just paid a decent wage and not dependent on tips for their income as much. But that’s probably never going to happen unfortunately

 

[DCLMP]

Related story - I have cruises to thank for basically getting me off of carbonated beverages. My workplace at the time stocked the fridge with the fizzy stuff, so obviously I drank my share. But when I went on Allure in 2013, I knew that I'd have to pay extra for soda, so I went without. Honestly, did not miss it, and have been able to avoid that craving for pop ever since. Sure, every once in a while I'll get a Coke Zero, or plain soda water, or ask for a Pepsi as a mixer, but really I feel like I'm not missing anything by not drinking soda pop anymore.

Just don't take away my drip coffee.

I don't buy it at home. Like you all occasionally drink one if going out to lunch. On Disney I drink the sugar free lemonade if available. I also like ice tea. I do like beer and wine. If there is one savings on DCL it's the ability to bring on your own beer and wine at every port.

 

[DCLMP]

Thank you. Chair hogs are awful. It’s usually not allowed but there will always be some entitled people. Smoke is a big concern. I have asthma and when we booked it looked like smoking is not allowed even on the balcony so I’m really disappointed to hear that it’s strong by the pool. I will be avoiding the casino. We’ve been to Aruba but not Curaçao. I wondered if the island would be tender or docking. It’s definitely easier to dock. I still can’t believe we all have to go on an 8 day cruise for the wedding! I practically begged them to wed in port then they could cruise and we could get off the boat. We will have to make the best of it.

I wish I could go on a 8 day cruise for a wedding. Sounds like a blast having that many people onboard that you know.

 

[DCLMP]

I know I'm not the person you're replying to, but I wanted to add my $0.02 to this. For drinks only (like sitting at a bar), I don't tip on percentage. If they're serving me a beer, it's a $1-2 tip. Pouring me a glass of wine, maybe $2-3. I tip higher for mixed drinks because they take more effort. If the bartender is attentive/responsive, friendly, etc. then I'll add a little more to that. Maybe I'll get yelled at for this, but I don't think a bartender automatically should get the same percentage as a server who's taking your order, bringing food, etc.

You tip this over the 18% they already added on?

 

[starvenger]

I don't buy it at home. Like you all occasionally drink one if going out to lunch. On Disney I drink the sugar free lemonade if available. I also like ice tea. I do like beer and wine. If there is one savings on DCL it's the ability to bring on your own beer and wine at every port.

It used to be more. I just missed the window for being able to partake in that old policy. Which sucked, but I somehow survived.

 

[RedHead0186]

You tip this over the 18% they already added on?

No, sorry, I'm not talking about DCL. I mean just tipping at bars in general. If there's an auto-gratuity already added I leave it at that. Mine was in response to the person who asked if the person who serves you one shot of $100 liquor should get the same tip as the person who's your server for $100 (taking your order, several courses, etc.).

 

[RedHead0186]

Yea I tend to do it the way you do as far as drinks. But on a cruise ship it’s all automatic percents on drinks which I think overtips some drinks compared to what a server at the MDR makes. It would be nice if servers were just paid a decent wage and not dependent on tips for their income as much. But that’s probably never going to happen unfortunately

Oh yes, sorry, I was talking about in a non-cruise setting. On a cruise I usually stick with the auto-gratuity; sometimes I'll throw in an extra dollar if the bartender was extra nice/friendly/etc.

 

[auntlynne]

Thank you. Chair hogs are awful. It’s usually not allowed but there will always be some entitled people. Smoke is a big concern. I have asthma and when we booked it looked like smoking is not allowed even on the balcony so I’m really disappointed to hear that it’s strong by the pool. I will be avoiding the casino. We’ve been to Aruba but not Curaçao. I wondered if the island would be tender or docking. It’s definitely easier to dock. I still can’t believe we all have to go on an 8 day cruise for the wedding! I practically begged them to wed in port then they could cruise and we could get off the boat. We will have to make the best of it.

Hopefully, there will be areas that are free of wafting smoke. I don’t think I have cruised where I couldn’t find an outside area that had just sea air; actually the clear air was more common than the smoke-scented. But I have had balconies where I still smelled smoke (from an outside non-smoking area or from marijuana). It hasn’t stopped me from cruising; but it keeps me from routinely booking balconies.

Curaçao will be docked. If you take a ship’s excursion, you catch that very close to the ship. Independent excursions have the pick-up area farther away (not excessive).

You can walk to/from town in about 15-20 minutes. There is a nice shopping area built into a UNESCO World Heritage Site fort on the way (typically, you walk through it).



There is a shop with Delft blue and white porcelain - but with more modern designs, soft goods, and ceramic models of the colorful buildings along the waterfront.

I visited Curaçao twice last year and ended up touring Willemstad both times. Someday, I hope to go to a beach up the coast or the National Park. Sounds like another cruise.

We didn’t have destination weddings in my generation (end of Baby Boom) nor my socio-economic class (and remember, I am a Disney cruiser .

Two ships docked at the a Mega Cruise Terminal. The harbor with the movable pontoon bridge is off the left side of the photo. The (shopping) fort is just forward of the left ship. My walk time estimate is based on the ship on the right - where I docked both times.

 

[DCLMP]

No, sorry, I'm not talking about DCL. I mean just tipping at bars in general. If there's an auto-gratuity already added I leave it at that. Mine was in response to the person who asked if the person who serves you one shot of $100 liquor should get the same tip as the person who's your server for $100 (taking your order, several courses, etc.).

I leave it at the auto gratuity too. I used to add a buck, but the drinks have gotten so expensive I don't do that anymore. It doesn't take anymore effort to make the 16 dollar drink as it did to make the same drink a few years for 10.

 

[DCLMP]

It used to be more. I just missed the window for being able to partake in that old policy. Which sucked, but I somehow survived.

It was nice when you could bring whatever you wanted. Even with that policy I actually used to buy more mixed drinks from bars because the prices were reasonable. They are not reasonable anymore. I mostly just drink the beer and wine I can bring onboard. I wish DCL would come out with some kind of drink package.

 

[snowwite]

Hopefully, there will be areas that are free of wafting smoke. I don’t think I have cruised where I couldn’t find an outside area that had just sea air; actually the clear air was more common than the smoke-scented. But I have had balconies where I still smelled smoke (from an outside non-smoking area or from marijuana). It hasn’t stopped me from cruising; but it keeps me from routinely booking balconies.

Curaçao will be docked. If you take a ship’s excursion, you catch that very close to the ship. Independent excursions have the pick-up area farther away (not excessive).

You can walk to/from town in about 15-20 minutes. There is a nice shopping area built into a UNESCO World Heritage Site fort on the way (typically, you walk through it).

View attachment 839352

There is a shop with Delft blue and white porcelain - but with more modern designs, soft goods, and ceramic models of the colorful buildings along the waterfront.

I visited Curaçao twice last year and ended up touring Willemstad both times. Someday, I hope to go to a beach up the coast or the National Park. Sounds like another cruise.

We didn’t have destination weddings in my generation (end of Baby Boom) nor my socio-economic class (and remember, I am a Disney cruiser .

Two ships docked at the a Mega Cruise Terminal. The harbor with the movable pontoon bridge is off the left side of the photo. The (shopping) fort is just forward of the left ship. My walk time estimate is based on the ship on the right - where I docked both times.

View attachment 839355

Thank you so much.

 

[NephieRN]

I don't really care about the price of the cruise, I care about the price of the entire vacation.
Where we live, flying in to a port and getting hotels and transportation ends up being a significant cost, regardless of cruise line.
When everything is done, the cost of a trip to go on a Disney cruise is about 30%-35% more than Royal.

But don't believe me if you don't want. All I have is data on actual money spent where you have internet quotes and random possibilities.

I’m currently on the Harmony of the seas and paid $1890 for 4 people in a balcony for 7 nights. The same week on the fantasy was $6200 for an inside guarantee with restrictions. A 4 night out of Galveston on the magic was $3400 for an inside. I’m still team Disney but the price difference is way more significant than you’re indicating.