One of the most important people behind Carnival Cruise Line’s management has spoken out about the company’s tipping policy after a customer complained about his stance.

Owned by the world’s largest cruise line, Carnival Corporation & plc, Carnival Cruise Line is the largest individual subsidiary of the company as such, sees more passengers than any other under the brand business umbrella.

And hence, it caters to millions of passengers every year on their cruise vacation across the world. Consequently, the question of tip is one that many will encounter. And the question is: should you do it or not?

Should you tip? (Getty Image Bank)

Carnival Cruise Line Tipping Policy

Also called service gratuities, today they are included as an additional option on top of your vacation. cost.

“It is customary for our guests to tip cabin crew in appreciation for their hard work and exceptional service,” Carnival written on its website.

“100% of your tips are distributed to the crew you interact with, such as your cabin attendants, catering and culinary services staff, and other onboard team members who work behind the scenes to enhance your overall cruise experience. This charge automatically streamlines the recognition process and ensures that our crew will share your generosity.

Standard cabins cost $16 per person per day, while suite cabins cost $18 per person per day.

These can be paid in advance or via a final invoice sent to your cabin at the end of your vacation.

John Heald responded to Carnival customer (Desiree Navarro/Getty Images)

Tipping Complaint and Response

“Why do you keep making us feel guilty by tipping the crew,” one customer asked. emailed Carnival brand ambassador and Senior Cruise Director John Heald sharing the message with his cruising community on Facebook.

“Pay them a living wage, like hotel workers in the United States. Carnival guests shouldn’t have to pay extra for people just doing their jobs. I don’t get tipped just for doing my job. work.”

It’s an age-old question that still divides opinion. In some places it’s actually considered rude to tip for serviceso you can forgive people for being a little confused about it all.

One of the ships in the Carnival fleet (CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

In response, Health did its best to bring the conversation back to a level the customer could resonate with. He said: “I thanked her for her review, explained that tipping was a personal choice and wished her a wonderful cruise and hoped she would appreciate the exceptional service.

“And I admit to all of you that by posting my response, I channeled my inner Alone at home and in my best Macaulay Culkin muttered, “Merry Christmas, you dirty animal.” Oops.”

He didn’t stop there and explained the situation a little more to his supporters.

“At this time of year there are the dilemmas of Christmas,” he said. “I tip the postman, then I start thinking about whether I’ll tip extra for Christmas to the Deliveroo or Just Eat person who brings our Chinese delivery every now and then.

“Anyway, I was very kind to this lady, although I would have liked to add: “If someone does a service that spares you the particular horror of cooking, cleaning and bringing you some fabulous holiday entertainment this Christmas time, so, God knows, he deserves a little something to say thank you, surely?’.

“Anyway, to all the thousands of crews who will be working very hard this week and being away from those they love, let me say to you all, thank you. I wish you and to your families, a Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season.

Many customers think tips and gratuities are a good thing (AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

“What a joy this person is”

Many members of the Heald community agreed with the concept of personally rewarding those who do good work in the service sector.

“As far as tipping goes, I think if you receive good service, that a crew member does for you, then they definitely deserve a tip and from what I can see they work very hard every day,” one said.

Another wrote: “Employees deserve this and more. They work hard to make traveling exciting and safe for everyone. »

And a third added: “If you feel guilty about tipping… then don’t!” It’s not because you appreciate beautiful people who give so much (like their families) to provide you and yours with exceptional service during your vacation!

“How much joy must this person have to deal with?”