Publicly praising the dining room staff is on the list of things not to do on a cruise. (Image: Getty)
Exquisite manners is synonymous with being British, often thanking people or saying sorry one too many times.
However, this seemingly good trait may land you in hot water when deployed in a setting, with staff all saying the same thing.
Publicly praising the dining room staff apparently causes a major nightmare for them, according to Gary Bembridge from
Dietary requirements or other restrictions often lead to people asking for an alternative food. Bembridge reports that his partner asked the Maître D if it was possible to have a vegan desert. However, when he thanked her upon its arrival, the crew became “frustrated” as they were told to not draw attention.
Writing in his blog, Bembridge says: “He was so delighted when they discreetly served him a custom-made sorbet Baked Alaska. He wanted to praise their good deed, and excitedly told others around us about it. Leading to several others asking for it too.
Chatting to staff for too long can reportedly cause delays in doing their job. (Image: Getty)
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“The crew were dismayed and frustrated as it was impossible to do. Mark’s was a one off, and they could not get the kitchen to make more without notice, creating tension when they had to refuse to get it for other diners.
The waiter and Maître D told us afterwards it is best not to draw attention if something has been done until at least the end of the meal. So, they can then build in and negotiate future requests with the kitchen, and not upset other guests and put the crew in a difficult position.”
Another polite habit that may not be welcomed by cruise staff is being too chatty. While it may appear to be the friendly thing to do, talking to the waiters for prolonged periods of time can reportedly delay them from doing their duties.
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Bembridge explains how on his cruise, he thought he was being polite by striking up a conversation with his breakfast waiter, however, this led to the other staff members seemingly becoming annoyed. “I learnt that being too friendly was affecting her job and causing tensions,” Bembridge writes.
Other habits that polite Brits have while on a ship include showing appreciation to entertainers in the form of a drink. Depending on the cruise line, entertainers may be banned from alcohol while performing. Giving the crew a helping hand may also upset staff as it could be misinterpreted as them not doing their job in the eyes of their supervisors.