Questiions about the HAL Volendam

[OYSTERBAY1]

My wife and I have not cruised in over ten years. We booked on the 9/13/17 Volendam. We booked a Neptune suite. Our tips were included in the cruise deal we got. Should we still give additional tips to room service or the concierge? If so, what amounts do you suggest? We are non smokers, are there any parts of the ship we should avoid? Also are there smoke free nights in the casino? HAL at one time said yes and other times said no. How are the steaks in the Pinnacle Grill? We are so looking forward to this cruise. Any tips you can give us will be greatly appreciated. Thank You in advance, J & L

[Clarea]

Welcome to Cruise Critic.

 

You will reach more people with direct experience if you also post your questions on the dedicated Holland forum:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=171

[CruiserBruce]

Welcome to Cruise Critic!

 

I agree with the suggestion to look on the HAL boards for additional HAL info.

 

Tipping is a very hot topic here. Tipping is never required, and extra is also never required. Whether you give extra is totally up to you. Many, including us, do. It all depends on the quality of service and effort you feel you received. There is no "should" requirement.

[OYSTERBAY1]

Welcome to Cruise Critic.

 

You will reach more people with direct experience if you also post your questions on the dedicated Holland forum:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=171

 

Thank you for your advice. I think I just did it. Not getting the hang of this site just yet. John

[OYSTERBAY1]

Welcome to Cruise Critic!

 

I agree with the suggestion to look on the HAL boards for additional HAL info.

 

Tipping is a very hot topic here. Tipping is never required, and extra is also never required. Whether you give extra is totally up to you. Many, including us, do. It all depends on the quality of service and effort you feel you received. There is no "should" requirement.

 

 

I know tipping is never required however I would never not tip regardless of the service. We have never been on a cruise with tips prepaid. I was just wondering if it was appropriate or if there was suggested or customary amounts for room service or the concierge. Thank you for your reply.

[CruiserBruce]

I know tipping is never required however I would never not tip regardless of the service. We have never been on a cruise with tips prepaid. I was just wondering if it was appropriate or if there was suggested or customary amounts for room service or the concierge. Thank you for your reply.

 

There are a number of variables here. How long is the cruise? How much above and beyond was the service or effort? For example, depending on your needs, the Neptune Lounge concierges (who are not covered by the "automatic tips") can do a heck of a lot for you, or very little.There is not one answer for how much more you might give.

 

Room service is also not considered to be covered by the standard hotel service charge ("automatic tips"). The customary tip added is $2-4 for a standard delivery.

[Keith1010]

CruiserBruce has given you excellent advice, as usual.

 

My advice is don't over think it.

 

See what you think of the actual service and let that be your guide.

 

Keith