Darren AUSTRALIA

Thanks for your feedback and advice everyone - now all we do is wait for 10 months time!

Hello As Australians the whole "tipping" concept is not something we're use to. Myself and 2 friends are staying in a Grand Suite (Brisbane departure March 2023)and understand we have to pay $17.50 per day as part of the gratuities. We are also aware that we tip the staff a few dollars when they deliver our room service (as well as our stateroom attendant) however do we need to tip the bartenders when we walk up to the bar and buy a drink? I understand there is 18% "tax" on top of your alcoholic purchases - so my question is does that go to the bar staff of the company? (The amount of money that RC must make from tips from a cruise must be staggering!) We've travelled to the USA and understand their tipping culture - just need to work out if the individual bar purchases require tips. Although our cruise isn't until March 2023 I see the cost for the Drinks Package is a staggering $90 US PER DAY - which equals $146 Australian per day X 4 days (amounting to nearly $440!)... not even a seething alcoholic would drink that much!!!!! We'll stick to the occasional purchases and take advantage of the "happy hour" in the Concierge Lounge I think! PS I realise the price may come down closer to the cruise departure, but seems quite expensive regardless. It sounds like we need to cash $50+ American dollars into $1 notes when we get on board! Any advice will be appreciated. Regards

Hello Firstly - ATLAST Our Government has joined the rest of the world and resume cruising (April 17) in Australia - its been a long time coming! Next March myself and 2 friends will se sailing on Quantum from Brisbane Australia as part of the 4 day Sampler. This will be the very first cruise for my 2 friends and we have "lashed out" and booked a Grand Suite. WE are aware of the perks and especially access to the Concierge Club and the "Happy Hour" from 5-8pm with free alcohol/snacks. I have read somewhere on the RC site and seen a flyer that has "complimentary Alcohol" from 11.30am - 11pm (beer/Wine) for Suite guests - through the Concierge Club. Can anyone verify that this is correct on Quantum? I also found this flyer on google images and wonder if this applies on Quantum? Any comments/feedback appreciate. Regards - Darren from Port Macquarie, NSW, Australia uely