Carnival Cruise Line director John Heald sparked debate by sharing the creative way one passenger chose to tip their cabin attendant. Knowing when to tip or not and how much to offer can be challenging, as customers who want to show some extra gratitude can be confused about proper etiquette. It's the latest talking point with Carnival Cruises, which recently clarified its use of the announcement system as passengers also shared their disappointment at its ice cream policy.
Carnival says it pays a wage above the minimum, and according to Carnival leadership, employees are happy to work for the line. An automatic 18 percent can be added to specific drink and dining packages at specific food locations, which some feel is enough and already appropriate. Other guests can add another few dollars for excellent service, which is appreciated.
Services like room cleaning do not have a tipping mandate, but many passengers leave a token of appreciation. But an upset passenger took issue with the need to tip these workers, including a photo of the money being laid out saying "Thank You." And they sent their frustration to Heald, the Brand Ambassador and senior cruise director, who shared the message on Facebook.
"STOP showing these photos, John. You are just virtue signaling. Pay them a living wage.
This is outdated, offensive, and demeaning. If you are going to give a worker cash, hand it to them or place in an envelope. They are not children.
This kind of photo should be trashed, not c.