We are repeat cruisers not 3- 4 times a year, but 400 plus days on Hal alone. Hal started a new tipping policy a few years ago. X dollars a day per person. Which is then divided up amongst the crew. In my book service on HAL has always been exceptional and we have not noticed a change since the new tip policy makes the tip pretty much secure. A truer fact might be you get what you give. We have encountered the same room steward on another cruise and received the same warm welcome we received the first time.