Pre-pay Gratuities

[Scot born]

Sailing on Seaside in May 2019 first time in the Caribbean and I am looking to pre-pay my gratuities, what is the best way to do this? I booked the cruise via a TA and not direct and the full balance of the cruise has been paid so therefore would I best call MSC myself or go through the TA. Thanks in advance for any info on this, also we are in the YC and I have read that the shore butlers are not the ship butlers therefore what would be deemed as a normal tip to the shore butler if we received good service. Thanks again. 

[deliver42]

If you booked through a TA, you have to call them to add the pre paid gratuities. MSC won't do it by themselves unless you book with them. This goes with any cruise line that doesn't have the option on their web site. Can't answer the 2nd question.

[Scot born]

Thanks  I will call the TA to arrange. 

[Cruisergal1208]

Regarding the shore butlers, we tip the porter that takes our checked bags and we tip the shore butler $5 if he helps with our carry ons. If they just escort us to the lounge and not help with the bags, they may get only a couple of dollars   Lately we have had the same gentleman to help and he carries my bags all the way to the gangway where we meet one of the YC butlers. 

[CGTNORMANDIE]

Our shore butler was so nice...he stayed with us until we were handed over to our butler.  A $5.00 tip was very much appreciated.  

[Scot born]

Thank you all very much appreciated