What Are Gratuities on a Cruise? A Complete Explanation
The gratuity system on cruise ships confuses many first-time cruisers. Unlike land-based restaurants where tipping is discretionary, cruise ship gratuities are structured and nearly universal — here's why and how they work.
How Cruise Gratuities Work
Cruise lines assess a daily "service charge," "crew appreciation fee," or "gratuity" per guest per day. This is automatically added to your onboard account each day of the sailing.
On a 7-night cruise for two adults at $18/person/day, gratuities total approximately $252 — a significant addition to your cruise cost.
The collected gratuities are pooled and distributed among your cabin steward, dining room waitstaff, buffet staff, kitchen crew, and behind-the-scenes service staff who you never see.
Current Gratuity Rates by Cruise Line (2025)
- **Carnival Cruise Line:** $16–$18/person/day (higher for suites) - **Royal Caribbean:** $18.50/person/day (standard); $21/person/day (suites) - **Norwegian Cruise Line:** $20/person/day; $25/person/day (suites) - **Celebrity Cruises:** $18/person/day; $23/person/day (suites) - **Princess Cruises:** $16/person/day; $17/person/day (mini-suites); $18/person/day (suites) - **MSC Cruises:** $16–$18/person/day (varies by ship and sailing)
Rates change annually; confirm current rates with your travel advisor.
Can You Remove or Adjust Gratuities?
Yes. Most cruise lines allow you to visit guest services and request a reduction or removal of automatic gratuities. However:
- Removing gratuities is considered disrespectful to hardworking crew members who depend on this income - If you have a genuine service issue, guest services can address it without reducing gratuities - Many cruise advisors recommend prepaying gratuities when booking to remove the cost from your final bill
Prepaid Gratuities
You can often prepay gratuities at the time of booking — either as part of a promotional package or as an add-on. Prepaid gratuities simplify your onboard account and prevent end-of-cruise sticker shock.
Many Wave Season and early booking promotions include "free gratuities" — saving couples $250–$400 on a standard 7-night sailing.
Are gratuities included in all-inclusive cruise lines?
Yes. Luxury and all-inclusive cruise lines (Viking, Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, Silversea) typically include gratuities in their fares — one of the benefits of the premium pricing model.
Should I tip extra beyond the automatic gratuity?
The automatic gratuity covers standard service. Additional cash tips (a few dollars per visit) are completely optional but genuinely appreciated for exceptional service from your cabin steward or favorite bar staff.
Who receives the gratuity pool?
The pool is distributed among cabin stewards, dining room waiters, assistant waiters, buffet staff, kitchen crew, and other service positions. The exact breakdown varies by cruise line.