Leejnd:

There are indeed those who like the "ala carte", "pay as you go" concept for beverages, alternative dining, and the like. But they are generally talking about a cruise line in the mass market or budget category with fares I've seen as low as around $500 per week! Such fares are maybe 1/6th of Crystal's. Compared with Crystal's fare pricing, that gives them much fare savings to pay for any such extras they wish. I can understand their logic, but I don't like other things about the mass market and budget lines, and like to pay my money up front and not be hit by unpleasant surprises. But that is an honest difference in preferences, which I understand. What I don't understand (yet) is how Crystal is able to set their price point so high and objectively include so little. Hopefully Ngaire's report will help us all understand, one way or another.

Those who like a "tips extra" policy instead of tips included usually fear a lack of tip incentive will mean poor service. These folks tend to be ones who have never cruised on Radisson, Seabourn, or Silversea. They haven't seen how well the tips included program works, what good service results, and how happy the crew is with it.

Hopefully this will help you understand where certain attitudes originate, and how they really do not, and should not apply to the lux lines.

Thanks,
Richard :) :) :)