Cruise passengers are being told there is one thing a cabin steward can do that could save them money – but it’s often overlooked.
Expert Gary Bembridge has travelled the world on cruise ships, but says passengers often underutilise the onboard crew. One thing that can be missed, he says, is gleaning vital information about the cruise.
On his Tips for Travel YouTube channel, Gary shared: “When I was on Norwegian Viva recently I asked my cabin steward about doing some laundry as I had been on a pre-cruise stay and had dirty washing.
“He told me don’t do it now and wait until day three of the cruise as there would be a promotion where I could fill a bag for a low fixed price, which was dramatically cheaper than sending it away when I was planning to.
“Cruise lines tend to run the same promotions and offers like this on a regular schedule during each cruise and a cabin steward can tip you off on what is likely coming up.”
Beyond savings, Gary also pointed out that cabin stewards can clue guests in on various “perks” that come with their cabins.
These can differ between ships. But Gary has recently had beach bags and water bottles. He says the perks can even change between journeys on the same ship.
Gary reveals that his mates often manage to request a coffee machine or tea making facilities, even if it’s not included in their cabin grade. He also mentions that bathrobes are frequently approved upon request by the stewards, reports the Express.
Gary suggests that travellers can even ask the cabin stewards to rearrange the bed configuration in their rooms. His sister, for instance, regularly requests for a bed to be pushed against a wall instead of being surrounded by two side tables.
Gary himself often requests his stewards to lessen the frequency of service, tailoring the cabin services to fit his schedule. He prefers them to visit when he is dining in the ship’s main dining room.
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