The fact of the matter is, if you cannot afford the customary obligation to tip, then you cannot afford to cruise and should be look ing for another alternative. We all have our limits on what we can afford. IMO, it is completely unfair to expect to be served graciously, as the majority of crewmembers do, with the full intention of not providing their tips. It is no different than an increase in the fare itself - like it or not, tips are a part of the cost.