Alternative to cash tips?

#1 (**permalink**) January 3rd, 2005, 12:09 AM

Quick question.....

We are sailing with Princess to Alaska for a first-time cruise/tour in Sept. 2005. We have no problem in paying the pre-set tip amounts. However, if we decide to give more for extra-special service, would it be acceptable to give out pre-paid phone cards instead of cash?

My understanding is that the extra tips may have to be pooled or reported. I know that the ship to shore calls can get very expensive, and the staff does not receive a large salary (sans tipping).

Does anyone think this would be a good idea or not? I surely do not want to offend anyone by doing so if cash is needed more.

lougee1043 · #2 (**permalink**) January 3rd, 2005, 10:28 AM

not a good idea because the card that you buy is a card for usa use and wont work for a crew member in cozumel call indonesia ----give cash ---- dont know about pooling cash tips but imo if you leave the regular tip on the ships bill no one will know you tipped extra

Donna · #3 (**permalink**) January 3rd, 2005, 04:45 PM

It is a nice idea, but I agree, and if you really find the need because of good service, just give them some extra cash, they will appreciate that.

#4 (**permalink**) January 3rd, 2005, 09:05 PM

Thank-you both for responding. You are right...EVERYONE loves cash. Happy Cruising !

Jim Bragg · #5 (**permalink**) January 3rd, 2005, 09:53 PM

Cash is always the best answer and it really is the exception for tips to be pooled. Almost all get to keep what they get.
Jim

OLD MAN · #6 (**permalink**) January 10th, 2005, 07:26 PM

Not true.. Tips are pooled..OM

Jim Bragg · #7 (**permalink**) January 10th, 2005, 07:59 PM

Sorry OM, you are wrong in this matter. We talk and often become good friends with many crew and we know how they handle this part of wages.
Jim

carol · #8 (**permalink**) January 16th, 2005, 06:52 PM

According to a waiter who oftens posts on this board and I believe his name if Bruce Chalkin, all tips must be turned in.

Carol

#9 (**permalink**) January 25th, 2005, 08:48 PM

Cash is King!

CruisinOkie · #10 (**permalink**) January 26th, 2005, 04:17 PM

Carol, yes, all tips are turned in after the individual records the cabin number on the envelope. If auto-tips have been left in place, the entire amount is returned back to the employee. If auto-tips have been removed, the equivalent amount is taken from the cash tip and placed in the pooled tips. Any excess, if there is an excess, is returned to the employee. This information is specific to Princess.