In regard to various other shipboard activities, if you want in, sometimes all you have to do is ask:
Spas, health clubs and beauty salon bookings: Set these up as soon as you unpack.
Getting a double bed: Most superliners can convert twins to a double;
request in advance through your travel agent.
First or second dinner sitting: Food and service are identical at both, but if you want to change your original choice? See the dining room maitre d`. Costume party night: Didn`t pack anything goofy? The purser`s office and entertainment director have costume inventories, but they go fast. Get your bid in the first day at sea.
Shore excursions: The best sell out, so make your selections as soon as you unpack.
Special tip on tipping: Want tip-top attention? One veteran cruiser always gets VIP treatment by giving halves of $50 bills to his cabin steward, the dining room captain and table waiter, with the promise of the other half at the end of the trip if the service has been top notch. He`s rarely disappointed.
