"I personally, do as the romans do, and think that it is an "extra" cruise charge, and am very willing to pay it to the cruise staff, as that is how they earn their living, and my cruise would be miserable with out them!" When we are traveling we always ask when we get a bill, whether in this country or not... is a service charge (tip) included...because restaurants here automatically add 18% or something in other cuntries. It just a matter of customs I guess.