Tip or Not: Cruise Ship Gratuities

Cruise ship gratuities have become a standard part of cruising, but many passengers still have questions and concerns about them. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of cruise ship gratuities in-depth. We’ll explain what these gratuities typically cover, explore the reasons behind their inclusion in the fare, and discuss whether or not they are fair or necessary. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to adjust or remove these gratuities if necessary, and whether or not it’s appropriate or expected to tip additional amounts to specific staff members. Get the inside scoop on cruise ship gratuities with this informative post.

Cruise ship gratuities have become a standard part of cruising, but many passengers still have questions and concerns about them. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of cruise ship gratuities in-depth. We’ll explain what these gratuities typically cover, explore the reasons behind their inclusion in the fare, and discuss whether or not they are fair or necessary. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to adjust or remove these gratuities if necessary, and whether or not it’s appropriate or expected to tip additional amounts to specific staff members. Get the inside scoop on cruise ship gratuities with this informative post.

Cruise ship gratuities are a fee that is automatically added to your onboard account to cover the cost of tips for the crew members who serve you during your cruise. These gratuities typically cover the cost of tips for your cabin steward, dining room waiter, and assistant waiter. The amount of the gratuity varies depending on the cruise line and the length of your cruise, but it is usually around $14-$15 per person per day1.

The reason behind the inclusion of gratuities in the fare is to ensure that the crew members who serve you are fairly compensated for their hard work. Cruise ship employees work long hours and are away from their families for extended periods of time. The gratuities help to ensure that they are paid a fair wage and can support their families.

While some passengers may question the fairness or necessity of cruise ship gratuities, it’s important to remember that they are an important part of the cruise experience. If you feel that the gratuities are unfair or unnecessary, there are ways to adjust or remove them. Most cruise lines allow you to adjust the amount of the gratuity or remove it entirely by visiting the guest services desk onboard the ship2.

It’s also important to note that while the gratuities cover the cost of tips for your cabin steward, dining room waiter, and assistant waiter, it is appropriate and expected to tip additional amounts to specific staff members who provide exceptional service. For example, if you receive exceptional service from a bartender or a spa attendant, it’s appropriate to tip them directly3.

In conclusion, cruise ship gratuities are an important part of the cruise experience. By understanding what these gratuities cover, why they are included in the fare, and how to adjust or remove them, if necessary, you can ensure that you have a stress-free and enjoyable cruise vacation.