It wasn't mandatory, but the minimum on the auto tip, and hey didn't have an option to enter 15-20%.
I agree Europe does have it right! Everyone should be paid correctly.
On the cruise thing, I did tip the staff, but I hate it when it is automatically entered, and you are right it does go to the companies.
I am in the technology business and pretty much the only tip we ever get is can you help with x more etc.
My first wife and I had three new car dealerships and has anyone ever tipped a technician or a car salesman? Funny thing is so many times the salesman doesn't decide the price, and if they work the sales manager better they actually lose money.