Get Ready to Master Your Onboard Cruise Tipping Game: 10 Must-Know Rules for Savvy Tipping Etiquette
You’ve booked that dream cruise, and now you’re diving into all the details to make sure your voyage is smooth sailing. That’s the good news, but wait – have you thought about tipping? If you’re scratching your head or feeling a bit overwhelmed, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with these 10 essential cruise tipping rules that’ll make you feel like a pro before you even step onboard. Trust me, after reading this, you’ll be tipping like a seasoned cruiser in no time!
Alright, let’s talk about the T-word: tipping. Also known as “service charges”, “gratuities”, and “crew appreciation”. I know, I know – it can feel a bit awkward, especially if you’re new to cruising. But here’s the deal: tipping is a huge part of cruise culture, and knowing the ins and outs can make your trip so much smoother (and friendlier!). Plus, it’s a great way to show appreciation for all the hard work the crew puts in to make your vacation amazing. So, grab a drink, get comfy, and let’s dive into the world of cruise tipping together!
The 10 Essential Cruise Tipping Rules You Can’t Ignore
1. Understand the Automatic Gratuity System
Okay, first things first – most cruise lines these days have an automatic gratuity system. What’s that, you ask? Well, it’s a set amount (usually around $14-$20 per person, per day) that gets added to your onboard account. This covers tips for your room steward, dining staff, and other behind-the-scenes crew members.
But here’s the thing – you can adjust this amount if you want. Maybe the service was out-of-this-world amazing and you want to bump it up, or maybe you prefer to tip in cash. Just head to guest services, and they’ll help you out.
Pro Tip: It’s considered to be poor etiquette to remove cruise ship automatic gratuities, because by doing so, there are people behind the scenes who may not get a percentage of the gratuities that they depend on.
Should you pre-pay automatic gratuities or wait until you’re on the ship?
Here’s where it gets a bit confusing. In the past few years, cruise lines have added the OPTION to pre-pay gratuities before your cruise, versus paying them at the end of your cruise on your onboard account. The reality is, there is no right or wrong way to pay the automatic gratuities. Paying them before the cruise ensures you’ll have a smaller board bill at the end of your cruise, which for some people is less depressing when they are facing the END of their vacay! But, the money goes to the same people, and the charged amount is the same, so it’s your call.
Should you tip anyone on the FIRST day of your cruise?
Great question! The answer is likely YES! The first person you’ll likely hand some cash to on your cruise is the luggage porters who greet you curbside. Those porters will be taking your bags, loading them onto a wheeled cart, and ensuring they make it through security and ON to the ship!
How much should you tip the luggage porter?
Typically, it’s customary to tip $1-2 per bag, including smaller bags. Cash is king, so come prepared. Pro Tip: As you approach the cruise terminal, place your luggage porter tip in your pocket for easy access. Things can move FAST when you’re dropping your luggage off, and you don’t want to have to fumble for the cash! I typically put a $10 bill in my pocket in the Uber or Shuttle from the airport or hotel, so I’m prepped.
2. Do you need to tip extra at Specialty Restaurants?
So, you’ve decided to treat yourself to that fancy steakhouse onboard (yum!). Remember, the automatic gratuity doesn’t usually cover specialty dining. Most of these restaurants will automatically add an 18-20% tip to your bill, but some allow you to add it manually. Keep an eye out for this so you don’t end up double-tipping!
Pro Tip: Confused about the tipping situation at the restaurant? Ask if gratuities are included when you make your reservation.
3. Bar Service: To Tip or Not to Tip?
Here’s a question I get all the time: “Sheri, do I need to tip for drinks if I’ve got a beverage package?” The answer is… it depends! MOST cruise lines include gratuities in their drink packages (usually 15-18%), while others don’t. Check your package details or ask a bartender to be sure. And if you’re getting exceptional service, a little extra tip never hurts – it might even score you some stronger pours!
Pro Tip: Carry lots of $1 and $5 bills on a cruise, in case you encounter someone who you feel went above and beyond.
4. Cash is King for Extra Appreciation – How much cash should you pack on your cruise?
While your automatic gratuities cover the basics, sometimes you might want to show a little extra love. Maybe your room steward went above and beyond, or your waiter remembered your coffee order every single morning. In these cases, a little cash tip can go a long way. I always bring a stash of small bills for just this reason! Some seasoned cruisers will even tip their room steward an EXTRA amount at the start of the cruise, to ensure the best possible service. While this isn’t necessary, it’s certainly a nice thing to do, if you can afford it.
So, how much cash should you take on your cruise? While this answer depends largely on how you plan to spend in port and whether you use credit cards when traveling, most cruise passengers take at least a few hundred dollars, per person in cash and small bills. This may be for tipping, and many other things like tours, souvenirs and food.
5. Tipping on Shore Excursions – How much should you tip tour guides?
Heading off the ship for an adventure? Don’t forget about tipping your tour guides! This isn’t usually included in the excursion price, so bring some cash along. A good rule of thumb is about 10-20% of the tour cost, but use your judgment based on the service you receive. Oh, and by the way, you can use our affiliate link to plug your cruise dates in at the Shore Excursions Group website to get a customized list of excursions just for your cruise. They are 20-40% CHEAPER than the cruise ship, and guarantee they will get you back to the ship on time!
6. The Spa Situation
Ahhh, the spa. It’s one of my favorite places onboard! Just keep in mind that most cruise line spas will automatically add a gratuity to your treatment (usually around 18%). Check your bill before adding any extra – unless your massage was so good you want to shout it from the rooftops, of course! You can also hand the spa team a little cash for great service on top of the auto-charged gratuity, but it’s not expected.
Pro Tip: At the end of a spa treatment, you may be feeling groggy and not pay attention that the receipt you’ll be asked to sign. Watch for language like: “service charge”, “gratuity”, or other similar language that indicates the gratuity is being added to your bill.
7. Don’t Overlook the Behind-the-Scenes Crew
Remember those automatic gratuities we talked about earlier? They help cover tips for the crew members you might not see every day – like the folks in the laundry or the kitchen staff. These hardworking people are a big part of making your cruise amazing, so don’t be too quick to remove those auto-gratuities! Always factor in these unsung heroes when planning your cruise tipping strategy.
8. Tipping at the End vs. Throughout Your Cruise
if you’re planning to tip extra in cash, consider doing it throughout your cruise instead of waiting until the last day. Why? Well, it can help build a great relationship with the crew (hello, towel animals, and extra chocolates!), and it ensures you don’t forget in the hustle and bustle of disembarkation day. Pro tip: Considering giving a small tip people who work behind the scenes, and may not normally receive tips at all. Spot someone cleaning the restroom with a smile, and want to reward them? They will be FLOORED if you offer them a small envelope with some cash!
9. Know Your Cruise Line’s Policy
Not all cruise lines handle tipping the same way. Some include it in your fare, others add it automatically, and some leave it up to you entirely. Before you sail, take a few minutes to check your cruise line’s policy. It’ll save you from any awkward moments or surprises onboard!
10. Remember, Tipping is About Appreciation
Last but definitely not least, remember that tipping is all about showing appreciation for great service. The crew works hard to make your vacation special, often away from their own families for months at a time. A little extra kindness and generosity can go a long way in making their day – and yours!
Final thoughts for now
Whew! We made it through all 10 rules, and you’re now officially a cruise tipping pro! Remember, at the end of the day, tipping is about showing gratitude for the amazing service that makes your cruise so special. Don’t stress too much – just use these guidelines, trust your instincts, and focus on having an incredible time onboard.
And hey, if you found these tips helpful, why not share them with your cruise-loving friends? Spread the knowledge and help make everyone’s cruise experience even better. Got any tipping stories or extra tips of your own? DM me on social media – I love hearing from you all!
Here are some cruise resources you may find helpful!
First Time Cruise ULTIMATE Guide!
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