Erik Tomren in front of Holland America Line's Rotterdam VI in 2009

Prepay cruise gratuities for a more relaxing trip

A common misconception is that ocean cruises are essentially all-inclusive, with the exception of alcoholic beverages, gambling, photographs and souvenirs. Some guests are likewise shocked when they receive their final bill only to see an added charge of gratuities, commonly referred under the euphemisms ‘Hotel Service Charge’ or ‘Service Charge’, or more recently as ‘Crew…