Just as more and more people are using auto transport companies to have their vehicles shipped when they go on vacation, even more are choosing to go on vacation via ship…cruise ship, that is. If you find yourself packing your bags for the next ocean liner, the following are a few rules for better cruise ship etiquette.

         Tipping

Most cruise ship staff members receive the bulk of their income based on the tips that they receive from passengers, like yourself. As with most tips, cruise ship tipping can be adjusted based on the type of service received as well as the quality of the service. However, most cruise lines will generally recommend a basic tipping fee to help inform passengers figure out what the minimum should be. For instance, when traveling with other family members, including babies and small children, proper etiquette dictates that you give tips for each family member. Stateroom hosts on cruise ships typically receive a minimum of $3+ per day as do dining room servers. However, assistant servers usually receive less in tips at $1.50 + per day. Also look out for cruise ship positions that receive automatic tips, such as bar tenders and walk-around drink servers, who typically get 15% automatically. It is then up to you to not tip at all or throw something on top of that if you think that the service is exceptional.

Don’t slam your cabin doors

It is important to always remind yourself that you are not the only person aboard the cruise ship. Therefore, when you are entering or exiting your room, be sure to close the door gently to not disturb other passengers.

    Dress appropriately

If you wouldn’t go shopping in it, don’t wear it in public view while on board a cruise ship. Bikinis may be appropriate at the poolside, but walking around in that lacy number that your spouse just bought for you may not be something that EVERYONE wishes to see.

    Don’t reserve seats at the pool

There are some people who will selfishly throw a pile of towels onto a lounge chair at the pool and then walk away for hours because they are reserving it for when they feel like coming back to the poolside. Don’t be one of these people! Be courteous. If you’re not planning on using the lounge chair, let someone else have a turn at relaxing.

  Control your children!

There are plenty of cruise-goers who think that cruises are great for families because it gives them a chance to cut their kids loose as soon as they get on board the ship. WRONG! For the safety of your kids as well as others on board, don’t allow your kids to run around unattended. If your kids aren’t trained to behave, don’t let them out of your sigh

About the Author: Janelle is an avid travel enthusiast and blog manager for one of the leading car shipping companies in the United States, National Transport, LLC. For more information about car shipping rates, you can contact National Transport, LLC at 1.800.665.5022.