Cruising is a unique vacation experience that combines relaxation, adventure, and exceptional service. However, one of the most common questions passengers ask is: Do you tip on a cruise if gratuity is included?
While many cruise lines include gratuity charges in the cruise fare, the decision to tip extra often depends on personal preference and the level of service received. This guide will help you navigate cruise tipping policies, what’s included in gratuities, and when additional tips may be a thoughtful gesture.
Understanding Gratuities on a Cruise
What Are Gratuities?
Gratuities are service charges that compensate crew members who work tirelessly to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. These charges often cover the efforts of room attendants, dining staff, and other vital crew members.
- On most cruise ships, gratuities are automatically added to your bill, simplifying the process for passengers.
- Gratuities ensure that crew members, both front-facing and behind-the-scenes, are fairly rewarded for their hard work.
Automatically Added Gratuities
Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to passengers’ onboard accounts. These charges typically range from $14 to $20 per person per day, depending on the cruise line and stateroom category.
- Royal Caribbean, for instance, includes gratuities in its fare for certain packages or automatically adds them to your bill.
- The money collected is distributed among key crew members, such as dining staff, room attendants, and behind-the-scenes personnel.
Prepaying Gratuities
For those who prefer to budget ahead, prepaying gratuities is an excellent option offered by many cruise lines. By prepaying, passengers can eliminate any surprises on their final bill.
- Prepaying is particularly helpful for families or groups trying to manage expenses during their vacation.
- It ensures that the crew receives their gratuities promptly, regardless of the level of service provided.
Do You Still Tip on a Cruise if Gratuity Is Included?
Even when gratuities are included in the cruise fare, passengers who feel they’ve received exceptional service often tip extra.
- Room Attendants: If your room attendant went above and beyond, leaving an additional tip is a nice gesture. For example, you might tip extra if they fulfilled special requests or provided outstanding service.
- Bar Staff: Although gratuities for beverages are often included, many guests leave a few dollars as a personal thank-you for exceptional service.
- Specialty Restaurants: Specialty dining often incurs additional service charges, but tipping extra is appreciated when the meal and service exceed expectations.
Situations Where Extra Tips Are Appreciated
Exceptional Service
Cruise crew members are known for their dedication to excellent service. If you feel a crew member has made your trip especially memorable, consider tipping them directly.
- Examples of Exceptional Service: A room attendant who decorates your cabin for a special occasion or a waiter who remembers your preferences throughout the cruise.
Room Service
While room service often includes a service charge, many passengers opt to leave an additional cash tip for the crew member delivering their order.
Shore Excursions
Tour guides and local operators involved in shore excursions work hard to provide memorable experiences. If your guide goes out of their way to enhance your trip, a small tip is a thoughtful gesture.
Spa and Salon Purchases
Gratuities for spa treatments or salon purchases are not always included in the initial bill. In such cases, tipping directly is a courteous way to show appreciation for quality service.
Cruise Lines’ Tipping Policies
Most Cruise Lines Include Gratuities
Major cruise lines, including Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, typically include gratuities in the fare or automatically add them to onboard accounts.
- Celebrity Cruises: Offers an “Always Included” fare that covers gratuities, Wi-Fi, and beverages.
- Carnival Cruise Line: Allows passengers to adjust gratuity amounts, giving flexibility based on service experiences.
Many Cruise Lines Allow Adjustments
Passengers who feel the service did not meet expectations can often adjust the gratuity charges by visiting the guest services desk. However, it’s worth noting that most cruise lines encourage passengers to keep gratuities intact as they support a wide range of crew members.
Additional Tipping Etiquette
Specialty Restaurants and Bars
While gratuities for beverages and meals are often included, an extra tip for bar staff or specialty restaurant servers is a thoughtful way to recognize exceptional service.
Mini Bar Purchases
Mini bar purchases in your cabin may not include gratuities. Leaving a small tip for your room attendant who restocks the mini bar is appreciated.
Suggested Amounts for Extra Tips
- Room Attendant: $5–$10 for outstanding service.
- Bar Staff: $1–$2 per drink for exceptional service.
- Specialty Dining: 10%–20% of the meal cost, depending on service quality.
Benefits of Prepaying Gratuities
Convenience
Prepaying gratuities simplifies your onboard experience by eliminating daily service charges on your final bill.
Budgeting
By paying gratuities upfront, passengers can better manage their vacation expenses. This is particularly helpful for families or large groups.
Supporting Crew Members
Prepaid gratuities ensure crew members are compensated promptly and fairly for their hard work.
How Gratuities Impact Crew Members
Cruise ship crew members often work long hours, ensuring passengers have an exceptional experience. Gratuities represent a significant portion of their income.
- Shared Gratuities: Automatically added gratuities are pooled and distributed among dining staff, room attendants, and other essential crew members.
- Direct Tips: Personal tips given to crew members go straight to the recipient, allowing passengers to express individual gratitude.
Common Questions About Cruise Gratuities
Do Gratuities Cover All Services?
Gratuities usually cover basic services, such as housekeeping and dining. However, charges for specialty restaurants, spa services, and shore excursions may require additional tips.
Can I Remove Gratuities from My Bill?
Most cruise lines allow passengers to remove or adjust gratuities, but this should only be done in exceptional circumstances.
Should I Tip Extra If Gratuity Is Included?
Tipping extra is not required but is encouraged for exceptional service. Many passengers choose to leave additional cash tips for outstanding crew members.
Tips for First-Timers on Tipping
Navigating tipping policies can be tricky for first-time cruisers. Here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Research the Cruise Line’s Policy: Each cruise line has specific gratuity practices, so check their guidelines before sailing.
- Budget for Additional Tips: Even with included gratuities, set aside cash for optional tips during your cruise.
- Recognize Exceptional Service: Crew members appreciate being recognized for their hard work.
Final Thoughts: Do You Tip on a Cruise if Gratuity Is Included?
While gratuities are often included in cruise fares or added automatically, tipping extra is a personal choice that can enhance your cruise experience. Whether it’s a room attendant who goes the extra mile, a bartender who remembers your favorite drink, or a tour guide who offers an unforgettable shore excursion, showing appreciation with an extra tip is always a nice gesture.
By understanding your cruise line’s tipping policies and planning ahead, you can confidently negotiate gratuities and ensure that you and the hardworking crew members enjoy a fantastic voyage.