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I definitely have to agree with that!

Thank you. I appreciate your information. It is very frustrating to know this. We typically book with Princess Plus but may need to rethink this. I do not think that the gratuities can be removed from the package on a daily basis. We are Platinum so can get the WiFi for half off. Personally, it is more fun to tip in cash for those who you intend to receive the Kudos.

Thank you! Maybe we will be on the sapphire someday.

We went in January 2018 and it was HOT and HUMID!!! My camera lens fogged up when going outside to take photos. I thought there was something flawed with my new lens!

I respectfully disagree that it is none of our business. We are the customer who creates the fact that the cruise line has a business. I believe in educated and wise Consumers.

@Sulialto Thank you so much for this upbeat review. We have never been on the Ruby... maybe someday. I believe that in one thread you mentioned that the Ruby has received a high rating amongst the Princess ships. Can you please clarify that and direct one to finding the ratings of all of the Princess ships? Thanks

Please expand on that. I would be very disappointed if the auto- gratuities do not reach the intended recipients.

The casual dining venues are like Alfredo's; NOT the Crown Grill or Sabatinis. Without the package, Alfredo's is $14.99 per person.

We ALWAYS choose our own cabin and book the Plus package with it.

However, do we KNOW that the "crew appreciation" funds ARE being distributed? That is the detail that is worth knowing. I am fine with paying them as long as we are not being lied to. And, of course, doing as you do, reward extra to those we please.

Thank you for informing us! I love that you will be doing a blog regarding Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess. Happy travels! The link would be very helpful.

I understand. However, it would be helpful to know the details regarding HOW the gratuity issue is now handled. @antsp stated that DD is onboard and has a contract. That IS a perfect source, but what are the details? We prefer for crew members to be treated and rewarded properly. Knowledge is power. I liken it to someone saying that their brother is a tour guide in Scotland. Ok............... please expand on the tour details as far as stops, price, etc.

Please share your "100% up to date information". We are inquiring minds and CC is about informing each other and sharing experiences. Thanks

Exactly. One needs to think it through and do the numbers.

Why do you think it is out of date? It seemed like an honest and accurate report from a past cruise ship employee.

@Bgwest - Thank you so much for quoting @rideev! Somehow, I missed that and love it! It is quite an eye opener and very helpful. Our last cruise was on the Sky and we had the worst cabin steward ever and did not tip him extra. And @rideev is so correct about mentioning the issues regarding restaurant gratuities. We may pay by credit card but tip in cash. I worked as a server to get through school and the cash was so helpful.

So true. If we ever book the Sun, then I know it will be sorted out by then.

Absolutely!!!

When in Skagway one of the times, we took the White Pass Train up and then we took the bus/ coach back down. This provided some variety of scenery. Both were very worthwhile.

The "original" mystery involved debates regarding if the 3 levels were pertaining to the type of food and/ or requested attire.

I remember that port! When we were there, there were two U.S. Coast Guards ships docked.

I swear that we did that about 3 times. The lines were long but moved quickly. We were constantly showing our passports and medallions.

Welcome to Cruise Critic! As a newbie, select an itinerary that appeals to you. We loved Hubbard Glacier and most people also love Glacier Bay. We book excursions from companies onshore, typically not through Princess. However, be aware of Viator as they are brokers and we know many people who had there excursions cancelled basically the day before. I know nothing about the Royal. Many love that ship and many don't. Princess does not care when you book. It only benefits you because you can select your cabin. The WiFi works great for us. We love booking an aft balcony with the larger balcony. Balconies are not created equal. The captain does a 360 so everyone gets great viewing, however, you will be wanting to move around on the ship and not need to stay in your cabin. There is also a ton of information on the Alaska forum.

We arrived early, went through the lines and then boarded after being placed in the Platinum section. We felt like we went through repetitive customs and ID Checks several times. I think it was the most convoluted boarding systems.

@Host CJSKIDS - Thank you for posting that (again). It is nice that the mystery has now been solved about the 3 Main Dining rooms on the Sun.