Mariettte

In Australia/NZ, tips are baked into the cruise price, so the base price one sees includes the tips. But so they are for all cruise lines (and every other service). When comparison shopping for cruises from here, the playing field is level, as far as tips go anyway. I am happy to have them as part of the price I see as I wouldn't remove them anyway. If they are part of the negotiated remuneration package then I don't understand why they are optional.

I have used both as the third in a balcony room and much prefer a fold out couch.

Thanks everyone, paid just to be safe 🙂

As above. I've reserved a whole slew of excursions but I want to check with friends on the same cruise before paying for them. Any idea how long they'll hold them? Could the excursion sell out while I have it reserved? Lots are sold out already.

Great photos! I was swimming once in Nelson Bay, north of Newcastle in NSW, when an apparent torpedo burst through the midst all the swimmers. It was a tiny penguin, so unexpected! It swam around and through our group for about 20 minutes, don't know how it managed to avoid collision, they swim so fast and come to an abrupt stop and change direction. Then it swam off into deeper water. I'll never forget it.

Sky View Lite is another one, I use it all the time. I have been thinking how I would love to see those dark starry skies! I think a Galapagus cruise is out of my reach but next April we are doing the TP from Sydney to Hawaii so hopefully an opportunity there.

Aria is another lovely restaurant near the opera house. It's pricey but very good.

It's not in my Gifts & Gear either- I can't see any way to buy OBC. Maybe because my cruise (and I) are based in Australia?

Same! so glad I got it when I did- though it's still not showing in my cruise planner and no confirming email. I rang Celebrity and they assure me it's all good...

So glad I saw this thread! Just checked and the drinks upgrade for Australian passengers halved from $28.50AUD to $13.28! Big difference for our 18 night transpacific next year, thanks all!