Mini Bar Gratuity

[cruiselover**]

My husband and I will be going on the Carnival Valor in February 2005 (our 8th Carnival cruise!). We were wondering if anyone could help us with the fee charged for the mini bar gratuities. Is beer included in the mini-fridge? If so, do you get charged a 15% fee, plus the cost of the beer when you take it out of the refrigerator? When we cruised in March 2004 on the Carnival Spirit, we didn't even have the refrigerator unlocked. We were thinking that we might use our refrigerator this time, if the price is right.

[sksadams]

Yes there is beer in the mini fridge I can't remember exactly what..I think Heniken (sp) and they do charge 15%!!!

[Lil Bird]

The cost ends up being about the same as the bars, but it's convenient.

[helicopter]

Will they remove the contents for you so you can put your own sodas in there?

[DiveCruiser]

I removed all the contents and put it in the claset for the week and used the frig for our drinks. At the end of the cruise I returned the contents and tipped the cabin attendant for the use.

 

Bob, Diane and Bethany

[cruiselover**]

Thanks for your replies! It sounds like using the refrigerator will be more of a convenience thing, than any kind of savings. We might have to give the mini-fridge a try though.

[ccletzgo]

is there a stocked mini bar in all of the cabins on the pride? not just suites?

[serene56]

I found that using these mini refrigertors did not keep my beverages ice cold. (like I like em) I take along a small cooler that holds 12 cans and get rid of the ice bucket. The cabin steward fills my cooler with ice and I put my cans of soda in there for the day.

[litig8rij]

I found that using these mini refrigertors did not keep my beverages ice cold. (like I like em) I take along a small cooler that holds 12 cans and get rid of the ice bucket. The cabin steward fills my cooler with ice and I put my cans of soda in there for the day.

...but do you tip each time the steward bring ice or do you add it all up at the end of the cruise?