First Cruise

[TAMZIN]

I will be going on my first cruise on the grand princess at the end of june,could anybody advise me what is the best way to settle my account at the end of cruise.Is it better to pay in pounds or dollars.Can i also opt out of the fixed charge tipping.

[HW tenpin]

Hi Tamzin,

All charges are in Dollars and it is best to tick the box 'DO NOT EXCHANGE' this is due to the fact that they charge a perchentage fee if they revert to Sterling.

You may adjust or remove all the fixed tips currently at $10.50 per day per person at reception. You may also remove any 15% service charge they put on drinks, however this need to be do daily. (up to Jan this year )

You may also purchase on board credits before you go, these are used to settle your account, purchase any thing or play in the Casino.

I am sending you a email about OBC.

[weekaren]

Hello, I am planning going the grand princess cruise july 2011, to get married. Can you offer any hints/tips, as this is our first ever cruise, and we are a bit apprehensive about the whole tipping scenario etc. I was wondering if there are any other hidden extras we should know about ?

Many thanks,

Karen

[HW tenpin]

Hi Weekaren,
Welcome to HW and in particular the Cruise forum.
The Grand is a nice ship very suited to perform marriages and the re-newel of marriage vows. The Chapel is small but very nicely laid out (I looked this July & was impressed) situated close to the theatre and atrium, where they set up to take some spectacular photographs, with all sorts of backdrops. The special Breakfast/Lunch/Diners for couples are fantastic, while if you are just having drinks and canapés after then those too are extra nice.

In fact Princess do all special occasions rather well and every cruise the wife and I have the Champagne Balcony Breakfast, worth every cent.

Now to the question about tipping, all tips are automatic, 15% on drinks and $10.50pppd or $11.50pp for Suites.
At the time of writing the daily charge could be adjusted or completely removed at Reception, this is fairly common with British cruisers, not so much with American cruisers. $294 for a two-week cruise, or current at rates about £180. This is a personal matter, but do not be afraid to adjust it if you feel inclined.
As for the 15% on drinks this can also be removed, but you have to go to Reception every time and give your reason. Not worth the hassle. Room service is free and you do not have to tip, but again a pound or a couple of dollars, ensures reasonable quick service.
Tours are extra; these are well documented, and explain exactly what you get. Both on line before you go or by the tour brochure in your cabin. While ships tours are certainly worthwhile when leaning about the different sights, the guides are good, most ‘Med’ ports can be DIY, fairly easily, taxis, mini-buses at dock gates or HOHO tour bus almost every port. (ask the question about ports in the cruise forum.) or browse though the different posts there.

Generally speaking, for a two week cruise, wine with every meal, a few drinks at night a hour or so in the casino and two or three tours, Mrs T & and I spend about $1200_$1500.
If you have any more questions please ask.
Take a look at the Grand Princess Reviews

[weekaren]

hi there,

many thanks for all your information. now all i need to do is to decide where to book, and also, wether to get married on the ship or on land ! decisions eh !

thanks again

karen