Yes - any time you have two different types of material (e.g. porcelain and acrylic) they will move differently from one another and if the location is prone to being wet, caulk is used because it is flexible and can bridge the gap.

I love Maax tubs I actually have used their tub and shower combos in a few renos because I like that they have a no caulk install sysetem . They also have a line called U tile

I like the Kohler Archer tub and also the Mirabelle Edenton. They are both nice deep soaking tubs and are acrylic. If you don't care about depth, Kohler makes a cast iron tub called the Villager. Here is a picture of the Edenton with a tile surround.

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