Cruise gratuities confuse a lot of travelers. Are they included? Are they mandatory? How much are they? Do kids pay? Can you remove them? Here are cruise gratuities explained, without the confusion, so you can budget accurately and tip with confidence.
Quotes That Include Gratuities, No Surprises
Every Cruise HQ quote factors in gratuities, and we’ll check for promotions that include them.
What Are Cruise Gratuities?
Cruise gratuities, also called service charges, daily service charges, or crew appreciation, are daily fees that help compensate the crew who serve you. That includes cabin stewards, dining room staff, buffet teams, and behind-the-scenes crew.
How Much Are Cruise Gratuities?
On mainstream lines, gratuities typically run around $16–$20+ per person, per day, with higher rates for suite guests. Rates are adjusted periodically.
| Cruise Length | Per Person (~$18/day) | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 nights | ~$54 | ~$108 | ~$216 |
| 5 nights | ~$90 | ~$180 | ~$360 |
| 7 nights | ~$126 | ~$252 | ~$504 |
Estimates only; check your cruise line’s current rates.
Are Gratuities Included in the Fare?
Usually not, unless you have:
- A bundled fare such as Celebrity All Included or Princess Plus/Premier
- A promotion that includes prepaid gratuities
- A luxury line where gratuities are included
- An agency perk that covers them
How Gratuities Are Charged
Most lines automatically add gratuities to your onboard account each day. You can also prepay them before sailing. See should you prepay cruise gratuities?
Do Kids Pay Gratuities?
On most lines, yes, at the same rate as adults. Some lines exempt infants or young children. Check your line’s policy.
Are Gratuities Mandatory?
They’re automatically charged and expected. Some lines allow you to adjust them at Guest Services, but they’re an important part of crew compensation. If you had a genuine service problem, raising it with Guest Services is usually more effective than removing gratuities.
Other Service Charges
- Drinks: Most bars add an automatic service charge, often 18%–20%.
- Drink packages: Service charges are added to the package price.
- Spa treatments: A service charge is often added automatically.
- Specialty dining: Some lines add a service charge.
- Room service: Delivery fees or service charges may apply.
Extra Tipping: Should You?
Extra tipping is optional. Many travelers choose to give extra cash to:
- Cabin stewards who go above and beyond
- Favorite bartenders or waiters
- Porters at the cruise terminal (customary)
- Shore excursion guides and drivers (customary)
Gratuities by Cruise Line (Overview)
- Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC, Princess: Automatic daily service charges; prepay available.
- Disney: Gratuities may be prepaid or added onboard, with recommended amounts.
- Bundled fares: Celebrity All Included and Princess Plus/Premier include them.
How to Budget for Gratuities
- Multiply the daily rate by the number of guests and nights.
- Add service charges on drinks and packages.
- Set aside cash for porters and tour guides.
- Consider prepaying to lock in the rate.
- Use onboard credit if your line allows it.
See how to budget for a cruise without surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t pay gratuities?
They’re charged automatically. Adjusting them requires a visit to Guest Services on lines that allow it.
Can I use onboard credit for gratuities?
On many lines, yes.
Are gratuities charged on port days?
Yes, for every day of the cruise.
Do suite guests pay more?
Usually yes, at a higher daily rate.
Budget With Confidence
At The Cruise HQ, we include gratuities in every quote so there are no surprises. Request a free cruise quote today.
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