We've only had one experience on HAL, on the Prinsendam when HAL first took it over three years ago. You can read all all about it on Cruise Critic under the ship - the review by me (count Florida) dated 08/02. But remember, that is only one person's opinion (in this case actually two - my lovely lady helped out). Read some of the other reviews, particularly about the Noordam, consider everything you've heard and read, and decide.
Good luck!Found on CruiseCritic and added here:
For years and years, Holland America Line distinguished itself with its "no tipping required" policy, the objective of which was to prove that the cheerful and accommodating staff worked for the love of serving their guests, not for tips. Unfortunately, many passengers took this to mean "tips are included," or "tipping not allowed," so as Holland America hopes to attract a more diverse clientele and more first-time cruisers, the tipping policy has been specifically addressed.
According to a statement from Holland America president Stein Kruse, the tipping policy -- fleetwide -- is as follows:
"For your convenience, a gratuity of $10 per guest per day, for dining and stateroom service, will be automatically posted to your shipboard account. We are confident you will find the service on board exemplary and, should you wish to make adjustments, you may do so at the end of the cruise by visiting the Front Office. Also, a 15 percent service charge will be automatically added to your bar and beverage purchases."
When we were on board, the drinks were outrageously high, and that was three years ago! But at least tips were included. Note they say "service charge" re: the drinks, so you probably can't "make adjustments" to this part of your bill at the end of the cruise!
