Prepaid "Service Charges"

[pratzert]

Hi All.  We hav ejust booked an NCL cruise and one of the item in our offer was "Prepaid Service Chages"

 

But on our detailed invoice, we are still being charges for Drink Package & Specialty Dining, as well as Gratuities?

 

So..... what is it that is being "Prepaid"?  I guess if you want to argue the point, technically EVERYTHING is pretty much prepaid before you sail.

 

Are they using special terminology to trick the guest?  Prepaid, Included, Free.....  seems somewhat misleading and unnecessarily confusing.

 

We have asked our TA to explain, but wondered if you all have experienced the same thing?

 

Thanks.

[Paul Bogle]

The daily service charge covers your room steward, dining personal in the complimentary venues and the behind the scene employees that keep the ship clean and comfortable. These charges are voluntary and have a recommended rate which you can increase or decrease if you feel that is appropriate.

 

The "Free at Sea" dining and drink package come with a gratuity charge that is mandatory and must be paid by final payment date. If you have no dining or drink package and buy a drink or dine in a specialty venue, a gratuity is added to your bill. With a package you are not charged onboard so these gratuities are paid in advance.

Edited May 31, 2020 by Paul Bogle

[adam_s_allen]

2 hours ago, pratzert said:

 

 

So..... what is it that is being "Prepaid"?  I guess if you want to argue the point, technically EVERYTHING is pretty much prepaid before you sail.

The Daily Service Charge doesn't have to be prepaid. They will charge your account daily if you don't. The bartenders don't receive any money from the daily service charge because not everyone will use their services. So when you add the free beverage package to your booking a gratuity that goes to the bartenders also gets added to your account.

[pratzert]

Thanks for those explanations.

 

I appreciate the help.