Royal Caribbean International Allure of the Seas

Staff (7.57)

Overall the staff of the Allure was very friendly and attentive. We did run into a a few difficulties at the main restaurant, and we were not impressed with the way the head waiter handled the situation. Our table waiter, however, was great, and handled the problem without complaint. As with most cruise lines, waiters and bar tenders do work in different places throughout the day.

Tipping

Royal Caribbean does not include tips in the final bill, so you have to tip waiters and stewards yourself at the end of the voyage. The line recommends $3.75 per passenger per day for the dining room waiter; $2.15 for the assistant waiter; $5 for the room steward and housekeeper; and 75 cents for the head waiter. Instead of tipping in full at the end of the trip, you can always tip the bar tender or your steward with cash—which may get you some better service during your voyage. The line also gives passengers the option of having the gratuities billed to their onboard account.

Dress Codes

The dress code throughout the voyage is “smart casual” on most nights for the main dining room and most other restaurants. Chops Grille and 150 Central Park do ask you to dress in more formal attire, however. Depending on the length of the trip, Allure of the Seas also has formal nights where everyone dresses up for a chance to meet the captain of the ship.

Loyalty Programs (4.50)

After one cruise with Royal Caribbean you become eligible for entry in the Crown & Anchor society as a gold member. Members gain one point for every night on a cruise, or double points if you stay in a suite. The more you cruise with Royal Caribbean, the more points you get—with 30 points you are elevated to Platinum status, at 50 points Emerald status, etc. Pinnacle Club is the highest status level, and it requires 700 points to achieve this level (that’s 100 seven night voyages in a normal room). Members get different benefits, like on-board credits, parties, and special offers at the spa, stores, or internet service.