Tipping: Looking for a response from Road Scholar

Just returned from a cruise around the Galapagos through RS. We, too, had the similar experience in wondering about tipping which we thought was included. Our guide was very good and the crew on the boat also. However, Rolf Wittner organization, who owns Tip Top catamarans, includes an informative leaflet in each cabin. In it the matter of tipping is addressed with various suggestions including a possible 10% of the tour cost. Our tour was about $7,000 each and we didn't plan on adding another $1400 to the cost of the tour (part of which did not include the cruise). I think that the boat company should have separate information for those with RS. A small tip yes - but 10%?

Hello lsbarnes45100521,

Thank you for your comments about your recent experience aboard the Tip Top. The information brochures left in your cabin are there for other clients and do not apply to Road Scholar. We have asked the ship management to refrain from leaving pamphlets requesting tips on Road Scholar sailings, as we do indeed provide tips on all Afloat programs. It is not necessary to leave even a 10% gratuity, because tips are included.

Sincerely, Your Friends at Road Scholar

I am going on an excursion soon. There is NO information about tipping in the Information Packet- nor do I see such in the customary places one might look on your web site. It was after quite a search through your cranky web site that I came across this rather unhelpful discussion.
I would suggest to place in the Information Packet:
1) discussion of tipping: who RS covers, what we might encounter that is not covered;
2) general tipping info for the area traveled would be helpful and appreciated, but I can research that on my own;
3) Will we have need to exchange money? And a recommended location to do so.
I look forward to your timely reply, so we can appropriately prepare. Thank you.

I am going on an excursion soon. There is NO information about tipping in the Information Packet- nor do I see such in the customary places one might look on your web site. It was after quite a search through your cranky web site that I came across this rather unhelpful discussion.
I would suggest to place in the Information Packet:
1) discussion of tipping: who RS covers, what we might encounter that is not covered;
2) general tipping info for the area traveled would be helpful and appreciated, but I can research that on my own;
3) Will we have need to exchange money? And a recommended location to do so.
I look forward to your timely reply, so we can appropriately prepare. Thank you.

I found this on Practical Information>How It Works www.roadscholar.org/.../. All gratuities are included in the "What's Included"section. Albeit people will nay or yeah on the subject; this is the RS position on tipping.
AAA is great place to do money exchange. I have found them to charge less for the exchange.

The what's included info (tips) is listed on every trip you bring up at the very bottom of the dates and prices tab.

Hello norriepond, Our pre-program information packets contain an abundance of information which can sometimes make it a challenge to find specific content. Page 3 of your packet includes a summary of our tipping policy and page 24 provides more detail, “Road Scholar programs include customary gratuities you would normally pay yourself. The only gratuities not included in the price of your program are for independently purchased food, drink, and free time activities. Road Scholar staff are not permitted to request tips or organize collections for tips for themselves or other staff. Should you wish to offer gratuities for outstanding service, please do so on an individual basis.” Also on page 24 of your preliminary information packet we list details about exchanging money on your trip. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have further questions. We hope you have an enjoyable time on your adventure! Best, Rachel