John also replied in comments that if it were for quarters, he would have let it go. Another
example of carnival picking and choosing when they feel like enforcing rules. If its so illegal, why would they not enforce it regardless of how much money.
Yes, if cancelations happen, carnival list back on the website. They have a wait list, but I would check the website daily and not rely on the waitlist.
I am not sure knowing a chefs contract length would help. The chef could have his contract end soon after yoiur cruise, than come back on a new contract during your next cruise.
About 6 months ago john heald posted that they did not want people taking food to go from mdr. That said, just like all other rules, some staff may allow it, especially with a nice tip
How much do you leave on the table on the lido deck for those workers if you remove the gratuities
I have never seen people leave money for those workers. People always say I give money to the waiters in the MDR, but eat more meals on the lido deck, especially breakfast and lunch.