The per-person cost (cruise-only, based on double occupancy) for the 16-day crossing on Norwegian Line's S/S Norway was $2,649 (not including air fare) for a "penthouse suite." Air fares may vary widely according to time, date and other factors. Also, because of the possibility of delays (which are far worse now than they were pre-Sept. 11), we always go to the departing port city a day early and stay overnight in a hotel. A Holiday Inn close to the Port of Miami offered a rate of $69.

The per-person cost (cruise only based on double occupancy) for the 22-day crossing on Holland America Line's Rotterdam was $2,349 (not including air fare) for an inside room on one of the lower decks. Pre-Sept. 11, this crossing was listed as fully booked. However, by the time of departure it was at least 20 percent empty, and many people I spoke with said they had received upgrades or special prices. Post-Sept. 11, it is highly advisable to allow several hours between disembarkation time and flight time home.

A note on tipping: Norwegian Line observed the traditional policy of recommending specific amounts for particular services (e.g., $3.50 per day per person for waiter and cabin steward). Individuals were, of course, free to give more or less or nothing, according to how they rated any particular crew member.

Holland America, however, has a "tipping not required" policy that is ambiguous and confusing. This is not a "tipping not permitted" policy, such as that in effect on the Seabourn Line. Neither the captain nor the hotel manager would answer specifically as to whether stewards, waiters and busboys are paid on a scale that makes tipping unnecessary, and they were defensive to the point of hostility when I brought up the subject at a question-and-answer session. Ultimately, Capt. Peter Bos said with a curt finality that "this is company policy, and it's not going to change."

View Comments

As far as I could determine, tipping on Holland America, though not "required" (any more than it is "required" elsewhere), is expected for satisfactory (or superior) service, and not to tip approximately the standard amounts would be grossly unfair to the personnel involved. The present terminology, though it may look good in the brochures, is neither forthcoming nor clear.

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.