We were wondering about the $5.00 cover and while we were eating there it occured to us that they need to charge some nominal fee so that they can bring you the bill to sign hoping for extra. (I'm sure there must be someone out there who doesn't drink at Palos, although it sure wasn't us!). I don't think the $5.00 is what they are living on. It's certainly not enough to cover the meal since they do not have as many tables as the regular restaurants on the boat. I can't imagine why any server would leave their regular spot for Palo's if they weren't compensated better. Still not quite sure how it works. In any case, we tipped $30.00 figuring the meal to cost about $150.00 leaving them 20% tip. Well worth it!