One of the fun things about the first day of a cruise is the “sail away” party on deck. Cute, smiling waiters bring you gorgeous looking “fru fru” drinks in a tall, fun glass. First I guess I need to define fru-fru. You know those slush fruity concoctions with rows of fruit on a straw, cherries on a toothpick and a little umbrella in the glass. They usually have names like “mango-tango pineapple slush” and are everywhere when you arrive at the lido, or pool deck. These drinks are available in virgin, but you will need to ask your waiter—assume the ones already made up on the trays contain alcohol.Many first time cruisers assume these beauties are complimentary—not so dear readers! Not only that, but they are usually presented in a souvenir glass or mug, which is not free either. I have seen people walk away and leave these glasses on the table, take it with you! I generally have one, including the souvenir glass and take it back to my cabin, rinse it out and take it home. Just one for me, but this is not to say if you want several of them as a set—by all means enjoy! I don’t think people realize the difference until they see their bill at the end of the cruise. Plus I don’t think people realize the difference a bunch of these will make in the amount of luggage they have to lug home. Fortunately, there are plastic souvenir glasses available too, so have at it!
Another thing that might save you money is the “drink of the day”. It’s on sale and is usually another fru-fru concoction. These are pretty cold and refreshing at the end of a shore excursion or a dip in the pool. Personally I am more interested in the “experience” of a new exotic sounding drink than I am by a quantity of alcohol, but again, to each his own.
To recap a few points:
• Fru-fru or other drinks served on board are not complimentary even the first day
• Ask for a plain glass to save a bit
• 15% gratuity is added to drinks
See you on deck at the sail away party; I will be line-dancing!
Sandy
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