To make budgeting easier, on our two previous cruises and on our upcoming one in August, I've requested DCL to add the recommended gratuities to our reservation and paid them off with final payment - that way I don't have to worry about extra charges while we're on board (except for Shutters, bar bills, shopping ... LOL!!!), but we do take a little extra cash and phone cards for acknowledging extra special service.
Don't know why more people don't take advantage of pre-paying gratuities. You can budget it into the cost of your cruise, you don't have to wait in line at Guest Services on board (which can be pretty time-consuming from what I hear), the little envelopes are delivered right to your stateroom and you don't have to worry about your final bill (except for ..... see above!).
I believe more people don't take advantage of pre-paying gratuties because it is only available for non-US passengers. That's the impression I was under in any case....
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