Hello, avid cruisers - both seasoned travelers and those new to the world of cruising! Let's dive into the subject of cruise gratuities—those additional payments that you give to express your appreciation for the hardworking crew who ensure your cruise vacation is unforgettable. So here's the scoop:
Gratuities are additional payments that go directly to the cruise staff. Think of them as tips for your cabin steward, dining room servers, bartenders, and other staff members who provide exceptional service during your cruise.
Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your onboard account. This means you don’t have to carry cash or worry about calculating tips. It’s all taken care of for you.
The amount usually varies from about $14 to $20 per person, per day—depending on the cruise line and your cabin category.
If you feel the service was lacking, you can request to have gratuities removed or reduced at the end of the cruise. However, it’s generally discouraged because these additional payments form a major part of the crew’s income.
Cruise staff work long hours behind the scenes to make sure you have a fantastic trip. From cleaning your room and serving your meals to attending to special requests, they ensure your cruise ship experience is smooth and enjoyable. Notably, many crew members rely on these gratuities as a significant part of their income since their base salaries can be modest. Hence, tipping motivates and rewards great service.
If you avail of extra services like spa treatments or private dining, separate tips might apply. These are usually included in the bill or suggested separately.
Remember, it’s always good practice to familiarize yourself with your cruise line’s gratuity policy before you set sail. By doing so, you know what to expect and can include these payments in your budget (as some cruise lines even include their gratuities in the pricing!).
Still got questions about cruise gratuities or need help managing your cruise budget? Don’t hesitate to send me a message anytime! Here at Allegiance To The Moment, we aim to make your cruise vacation stress-free and fun!