oceania cruise gratuities

Oceania Cruises Gratuity Guide: How Much to Budget

When planning your getaway with Oceania Cruises, it's essential to consider the full cost of your journey, including gratuities. This guide explains Oceania's prepaid and recommended gratuity amounts so you can plan accordingly.

On Oceania Cruises, gratuities are automatically added at a rate of $18.00 per guest, per day for staterooms and $23.00 per guest, per day for suites. These charges cover the service of staff onboard Oceania Cruises.

Tipping Customs

• Gratuities on Oceania Cruises vary by stateroom type and are automatically charged to your onboard account.
• A 20% service gratuity is added to specific services, such as beverages and spa treatments.
• Adjusting the automatic gratuities is at your discretion to reflect the service quality you experience.

On this page:

Gratuity guidelines on oceania cruises, understanding gratuities and cruise fare, budgeting for gratuities on your cruise, how gratuities affect cruise staff, additional services and gratuities.

When planning your cruise with Oceania, it's important to understand the gratuity policies that will affect your on-board experience. These guidelines help you budget for the extra expenses that are not included in your cruise fare.

Standard Gratuity Rates

The current standard gratuity charges on Oceania Cruises are based on the type of stateroom you book. Here's a quick look at the daily rates you can expect:

• Inside, Oceanview, Veranda: $16 per person, per day
• Penthouse, Oceania, Vista, or Owner's Suites (Butler Service provided): $23 per person, per day

This gratuity covers your service experiences on board, including your room stewards and dining staff.

Additional Tipping

While standard gratuities cover most tipping on the ship, there are additional services where a service gratuity is automatically added:

• Beverage purchases : A 20% service gratuity is added to all beverage transactions, ensuring your bartenders and service staff are appropriately compensated.
• Spa treatments : Similar to beverages, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to the cost of your spa treatments, providing convenience and ease.
• Dinner at La Reserve : Specialty dining experiences such as La Reserve also include an added 18% gratuity to enhance your dining pleasure.

These gratuities are added to your bill to simplify tipping for services outside of your stateroom and main dining experiences.

Prepaid Gratuities

For a hassle-free vacation, Oceania offers the option to prepay your gratuities.

• Cruise fare inclusion : For certain promotions or booking categories, prepaid gratuities may be included in your cruise fare.
• Gratuity credit : Some loyalty levels in the Oceania Club program provide the benefit of complimentary prepaid gratuities.

Choosing prepaid gratuities means you won't have to think about tipping during your voyage, and you can enjoy your cruise with one less thing on your mind.

When you cruise with Oceania Cruises, it’s important to understand how gratuities affect your overall cruise fare and what options you have available.

All-Inclusive Gratuity Packages

Oceania Cruises offers all-inclusive packages that can take the guesswork out of your vacation budgeting. These packages typically cover a range of services including:

• Accommodations
• Entertainment

Moreover, they often encompass beverage packages which add to the overall convenience. It's worth noting that these packages may vary, so reviewing the specifics before booking can ensure that you know what's included.

Gratuities Included in Your Fare

Gratuities are not always a separate charge on Oceania Cruises. Depending on the level of service your booking includes, gratuities can be part of your initial cruise fare. This is especially true if you have achieved certain loyalty levels in the Oceania Club loyalty program, such as pre-paid gratuities on every cruise. The standard gratuities for guests in staterooms without butler service are added at a rate per guest, per day, which can be budgeted into your total cruise fare.

It’s also good to know that for guests in higher-tier suites such as Penthouse, Oceania, Vista or Owner’s Suites, where Butler Service is provided, a higher rate of gratuities will apply. Additionally, a service gratuity is generally added to all beverage purchases , spa services, and dining at certain specialty restaurants.

Understanding how gratuities are charged and what they cover is essential for smooth sailing on your Oceania Cruises voyage.

When preparing for your Oceania Cruises journey, it's important to factor in gratuities to your budget. Gratuity fees are a way to reward the crew for their service during your voyage.

Per Person Gratuity Costs :

• Standard Staterooms: $18.00 per day
• Suites (with Butler Service): $23.00 per day

To manage your budget effectively, calculate the total gratuity cost for the duration of your cruise. For example, if you're staying in a standard stateroom for a 7-day cruise, your estimated gratuities would be:

• $18.00 per day x 7 days = $126.00 per person

Multiplying by the Number of Travelers : For a couple, simply double the amount:

• $126.00 x 2 = $252.00

Understanding these costs will ensure that you're financially prepared and can enjoy your cruise without unexpected expenses.

Daily Tips for Crew Members : Beyond the standard gratuities, you might consider setting aside a small amount for personalized tips if you receive exceptional service from individual crew members during your cruise.

A well-planned budget is key to a stress-free vacation. Remember these figures when planning, and you’ll have a smooth sailing experience onboard Oceania Cruises.

Gratuities play a significant role in the livelihood of cruise staff on Oceania Cruises. Your generosity directly impacts their compensation and job satisfaction.

Distribution of Gratuities Among Crew

Crew Members

• Gratuities on Oceania Cruises serve as an essential part of the income for crew members.
• Distribution is typically split among those who provide direct services, like stateroom attendants and dining staff.

Stateroom Attendants

• These hard-working individuals ensure your cabin is clean and comfortable throughout your stay.
• A portion of service gratuity goes to them in appreciation of their meticulous efforts.

Dining Staff

• Your gratuities acknowledge the attentive service provided by dining staff, from main restaurants to specialty venues.
• They share in the service gratuity, reflecting their role in enhancing your dining experience.

Hard-Working Crew

• The entire crew, often unseen, contributes to your cruise experience.
• Gratuities acknowledge their collective efforts and are distributed according to internal policies of Oceania Cruises.

Your understanding of how service gratuity is allocated helps foster a culture of crew appreciation, ensuring that the individuals behind the scenes are recognized for their commitment to exemplary service.

When you embark on an Oceania Cruise, it's important to understand the expected gratuities for additional services, ensuring your experience is as seamless as possible.

Gratuities for Spa and Special Services

For services that go above and beyond, such as those provided at the spa , gratuities are commonly added to reward exceptional personal service. If you indulge in spa treatments , expect a service gratuity to be automatically added to your bill. This helps to ensure that the professionals attending to your relaxation and well-being are adequately compensated for their expertise.

• Butler Service: Should you stay in a suite where butler service is provided, there is a daily added gratuity to acknowledge their personalized attention to your needs.

Dining and Beverage Service Gratuities

Enjoying a meal or a drink comes with its own set of gratuities to ensure all service staff involved are recognized for their work.

• Dining Gratuity: A service charge may be added to your account for dining in specialty restaurants like La Reserve .
• Beverage Service: When purchasing a beverage package , a service gratuity is typically included, allowing you to savor your experience without worrying about the tip every time.

For any situation — whether it's dining, drinking, or unwinding at the spa — Oceania Cruises ensures that the gratuity process is convenient for you.

Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

How much to tip on a cruise is a question that trips up many first-timers. That's because some cruise lines tack daily service fees onto passenger bills — yet many travelers still hand out additional cash gratuities, either as a matter of course or for exemplary service.

The extra cost of the automatic gratuity charges can be a shock to first-time cruisers. At some lines, these charges run as high as $25 per day. And, unlike the typical service fee or resort fee found at a land resort, they are not per room. They are per person .

At some big lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line , it's not uncommon for a family of four staying in a single cabin to see more than $70 a day in service fees added to their bills. On a typical seven-night cruise, that's around $500 in fees.

That's before you add in any additional tips you wish to give to your room service or favorite bartender or automatic gratuities tacked on to bar, restaurant and spa bills.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, not all lines have service fees that high. Some don't charge a service fee at all. In many cases, the service charges are adjustable.

Tipping on a cruise does not have to be complicated, but you need to understand the big picture to budget for your vacation appropriately. Read on to learn all about cruise ship tipping culture and how much you'll need to tip on your next cruise, based on which cruise line you're sailing.

Tipping on a cruise ship: The big picture

Most of the biggest cruise lines automatically add some type of service or gratuity fee onto passenger bills. Lines with such charges include both of the two giants of the cruise business, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line , as well as the next three biggest lines MSC Cruises , Norwegian and Princess Cruises .

That said, the total number of lines with a service fee has been shrinking over the years. Many smaller and higher-end cruise operators are folding tips and gratuities into their base fares.

Lines that now cover gratuities in their fares include Azamara , Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn , SeaDream Yacht Club , Silversea Cruises and Virgin Voyages .

For lines that do have them, service and gratuity charges are touted as a convenient alternative to the practice of cash tipping on cruise ships — something that once was common.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise lines say they pass the money collected from service charges to the shipboard crew. They say the money is shared not just with front-of-house crew, such as room attendants and waitstaff, but also with behind-the-scenes workers. In that sense, the current system is more equitable than the old system of cash tipping, which favored certain workers, lines say.

Still, some critics see the charges as a sneaky way for cruise lines to make their fares appear lower than they really are. In this line of thinking, lines with these charges are essentially breaking out a good chunk of onboard labor costs as a separate line item on your bill.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

How service charges are levied

At most lines, you can pay your service charges before sailing (at the same time you pay your cruise fare). Alternatively, you can have the charges added to your room bill on board.

The big advantage to paying cruise tips in advance is that you lock in the current rate. If your line raises the rate between the time you pay and the time you sail, you won't pay more.

Some people also like to pay their service charges in advance for budgeting purposes. It'll be one less thing on your final bill at the end of the cruise.

If you prefer to pay for tips once you're on board your cruise, you'll generally find that the gratuities automatically appear on your bill. You don't have to do anything.

That said, if you want to, you can often adjust the charges (either up or down) while you're on board by visiting the guest relations desk. If you are adjusting a gratuity charge downward, expect to be asked about the reasons behind the adjustment. The guest relations staff will want to know if you've experienced particular service issues.

If you leave the service charge on your room bill, you are not expected to leave additional cruise tips for your room attendant or waiters. That's the whole point of the service charge.

Similarly, if you're on a higher-end ship that lists gratuities as being included in the fare, that means just what it says. You don't have to tip on these cruises because the line is already paying gratuities to the staff on your behalf. Additional cash gifts are not expected.

Still, some people do leave a little extra for crew members who go above and beyond. Others tip their room service or waitstaff at their favorite bar, either early in the cruise in the hope of getting better service or at the end to thank them for enhancing the vacation experience. How much to tip extra on a cruise is entirely up to you because it is in no way required.

Related: 10 times you do not need to tip on a cruise

Included cruise tips as a booking perk

If you dislike tipping on cruise ships but can't afford to sail on an all-inclusive line, look for promotions when cruise lines with service charges throw in free gratuities as a booking incentive.

For instance, in recent years, Norwegian often ran Free at Sea promotions that included free crew tips in addition to free shipboard Wi-Fi and a free drinks package . The line hasn't been doing that as much lately, but these offers often come back at times when brands need to drum up more business.

Additionally, several major lines in the past couple of years have begun offering bundle pricing to customers who pay for cruise tips, Wi-Fi charges and an onboard drinks package all at once in advance of sailing, potentially at a discount.

Princess, for example, has added a Princess Plus plan as a booking option. It gives passengers prepaid gratuities (Princess calls these "crew appreciation" fees), a single-device Wi-Fi plan and a basic beverage package for a single bundled price of $60 per person, per day.

Don't worry: When lines offer such deals, it doesn't mean the crew will receive fewer tips the week you cruise. The lines that offer these deals say they'll pay a normal gratuity to the crew on your behalf.

Related: The best cruise booking perks — and which ones are actually free

Additional cruise ship tipping

Daily service charges are not the only cruise tips you will pay on board. Many cruise lines will tack an automatic gratuity charge onto the bill for extra-fee drinks, restaurant meals and spa treatments.

The included tip amount varies by cruise line but is typically 15% to 20% of the bill. Be warned that the receipt often includes a line for an additional gratuity, even when one is automatically added. This can trick many cruisers into tipping twice. Never feel pressured to add an extra tip when you've already paid one.

Note that if you purchase a dining or beverage package, most cruise lines will charge you gratuities based on a percentage of the package price. If you get one of these packages for free as a booking perk, as with Norwegian Cruise Line's Free at Sea promotion, you might still be required to pay the gratuities on the free perk.

For example, Norwegian offers a complimentary Open Bar drinks package for travelers who book its Free at Sea promotion. The cost of that package is typically $109 per person, per day. The mandatory 20% gratuity comes out to nearly $22 per day. That means two people sharing a room on a seven-night cruise would pay $308 in tips for an otherwise free drinks package — on top of their daily service charge fees.

Cruisers should also bring cash to tip the porters who bring their bags onto the ship (usually $2 per bag), as well as tour guides in port ($5 to $10 per person for half-day tours, $10 to $20 for full-day excursions and $2 for non-guide drivers). Piano bar regulars know that a cash tip will increase the chances of the pianist choosing and performing your song request.

How much should you tip on each cruise line?

If you're wondering how much you should tip on the specific cruise line you're considering or have already booked, we've compiled that information here. Below is a line-by-line look at policies for automatic gratuity charges (called service charges or "crew appreciation" charges at some lines). The rates listed are per person, per day. They were accurate as of the publishing of this story.

Remember that all additional tipping is at your discretion. Any amount is fine and will be appreciated by the hard-working crew.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

• Automatic gratuity charge : None.
• Details : Gratuities for the crew are not included in the fare and are at the discretion of travelers.
• Details : Gratuities for the crew are included in the fare. One area of exception: An 18% gratuity is added to bills for spa services.

Carnival Cruise Line

• Automatic gratuity charge : $16 to $18 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $16. Those in suites pay $18. Children younger than 2 are exempt from the charges. Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills, the cover charges for the Chef's Table and Bonsai Teppanyaki restaurants and the a la carte fee at Bonsai Sushi, Emeril's Bistro, Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse and Seafood Shack.

Related: Cruise giant Carnival joins Princess, Norwegian in sharply hiking service fees

Celebrity Cruises

• Automatic gratuity charge : $18 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $18. Passengers in Concierge Class pay $18.50 and, for bookings made after Oct. 4, 2023, passengers in AquaClass cabins also pay $18.50 (for AquaClass bookings made before that date, there is no charge for gratuities). For bookings made after Oct. 4, 2023, passengers in The Retreat suites pay $23 (for The Retreat bookings made before that date, there is no charge for gratuities). Note that passengers who book a Celebrity cabin under the line's pricier All Included rate plan also do not pay gratuity charges. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is added when a passenger orders a drink that's not included in the line's All-Included rate plan, as well as when purchasing a minibar item. An 18% gratuity will be added for spa and salon services.

Celestyal Cruises

• Details : Gratuities for crew and bar staff are included in the fare.

Costa Cruises

• Automatic gratuity charge : $12.50 to $17.50 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers on ships operating on the U.S. dollar generally pay $12.50. Ships operating on the euro have an 11 euro charge ($11.60 at current exchange rates). On cruises departing from China, Japan and Singapore, the charges range from $13.50 to $17.50, depending on the cabin category. Passengers younger than 4 are exempt from the charges. Gratuities for children between 4 and 14 (up to 12 on cruises departing from Japan, China and Singapore) are half the adult rate. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is added to beverage purchases.

Cunard Line

• Automatic gratuity charge : $14.50 to $16.50 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $14.50. Passengers in Grill Class suites pay $16.50. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is added to bar, wine and salon bills.

Disney Cruise Line

• Details : While Disney doesn't add an automatic gratuity charge, it suggests that passengers staying in most cabins pay $14.50 per day in total when tipping various dining staff and room attendants. The suggested amount for passengers staying in concierge cabins and suites is $15.50. Passengers can prepay the amount in advance or on board. Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bar, beverage, wine and deck service bills, and an 18% gratuity is added to bills for spa services.

Holland America Line

• Automatic gratuity charge : $17 to $19.00 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $17 for what the line now calls a "crew appreciation" charge. Passengers staying in suites pay $19.00. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills and dining room wine purchases.

Related: Is this love? Holland America chooses Valentine's Day for service charge price hike

Lindblad Expeditions

• Details : Gratuities are included in the fare for passengers on National Geographic Explorer, National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Orion. On other ships, gratuities are at the passenger's discretion.

MSC Cruises

• Automatic gratuity charge : about $13 (12 euros) to $16.
• Details : Gratuity charges are $16 on voyages from and to the U.S., with the exception of sailings with pricing in euros, which have a gratuity charge of 12 euros ($12.66 at current exchange rates). Gratuities for children between 2 and 11 are half the adult rate on most cruises. Gratuities are not charged for children younger than 2.

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Automatic service charge : $20 to $25 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $20. Those in suites or The Haven pay $25. Passengers younger than 3 are exempt from the charges. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is added to bills at bars, extra-charge specialty restaurants and ship spas. Cruises to Hawaii will also pay a 4.275% prepaid service charge called a general excise tax.

Oceania Cruises

• Automatic gratuity charge : $18 to $23 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers staying in most cabins pay $18. Passengers in top suites with butler service pay $23. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is added to bills at bars, the extra-charge La Reserve restaurant and at ship spas.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

• Details : Gratuities are included in the fare.
• Details : Gratuities are included in the fare. However, passengers can give more at their discretion; Ponant recommends $10 to $12 per passenger, per day.

Princess Cruises

• Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $16 for what the line now calls a "crew appreciation" charge . Passengers in mini-suites pay $17, while those in bigger suites pay $18. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills, dining room wine purchases and Lotus Spa services.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal caribbean.

• Automatic gratuity charge : $18 to $20.50 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers staying in most cabins, including junior suites, pay $18 per day. Passengers in higher-level suites pay $20.50. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bills at bars, minibars, salons and spas.

Related: Royal Caribbean quietly raises automatic gratuity charges

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Seadream yacht club, silversea cruises.

• Details : Gratuities are included in the fare, except for beauty salon and spa treatments.

Star Clippers

• Details : The line recommends that passengers pay 8 euros ($8.44 at current exchange rates) per day in gratuities, but the payment is at the passenger's discretion. There is a 15% gratuity added for bar purchases.

UnCruise Adventures

• Details : UnCruise recommends that passengers pay $35 per person, per day in gratuities, but the payment is at the passenger's discretion.
• Automatic gratuity charge : $17 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers pay $17 in gratuities for all cabin types. Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bar bills.

Virgin Voyages

Windstar cruises.

• Automatic gratuity charge : $16 per person, per day.
• Details : Passengers pay a "hotel service charge" of $16 for all cabin types. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar, beverage, wine and deck service bills. Alternately, Windstar cruisers can upgrade their bookings with an all-in package that includes unlimited beverages, Wi-Fi and the hotel service charge for $89 per person, per day.

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Tipping on a Cruise

Oceania automatically charges gratuities of $13.50 per person, per day to your onboard account. The amount charged will increase to $18.50 per person, per day for guests in staterooms where butler service is provided. If you feel this amount needs to be adjusted, whether increased or decreased, arrangements can be made onboard the ship, generally at the end of your cruise.

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Everything About Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024 (Amounts, Etiquette, and More)

If you’re a first-time cruiser, then there’s little doubt that you have questions about gratuities and tipping on your cruise. We’re here to help.

First of all, if you’re feeling a little confused, don’t worry — you aren’t alone. In fact, we can’t think of a place where gratuities are handled the same way as they are on a cruise ship.

Gone are the days of simply slipping a waiter some cash or leaving a couple of bills for the room steward at the end of your trip (although you can still do that if you want).

Instead, gratuities on a cruise ship are highly automated, with most people just electing to prepay or being charged a set amount for each day on the ship.

While this is intended to make things easier, the honest truth is that having automatic gratuities can actually lead to more questions. Who gets the tips? How much is charged? What if service is bad?

If you’ve never cruised, then there is no doubt that these questions and more might be floating through your head. To help explain everything about cruise line gratuities, we’ve answered a number of common questions that will make everything clearer before you set sail.

In This Article...

Explained: What Exactly Are Cruise Ship Gratuities

While the name sounds fancy, gratuities are nothing more than a tip paid to the staff members for service during the cruise. The staff works hard to ensure that your vacation is a great one. As a thanks for their service, it’s customary to provide a tip.

The gratuities go to staff that provide passenger-facing services. That means people like the room steward who cleans your cabin and the dining staff. Some cruise lines distribute them even wider to the staff.

These days, the gratuities are set daily amounts paid by each passenger. Instead of one passenger paying a lot and another paying hardly anything, these set amounts ensure that everyone pays the same. The cruise line then distributes the payment to staff.

My Cruise Line Calls it a Crew Incentive or Service Charge. Is that the Same Thing?

Depending on your cruise line, you might find different language used than the word “gratuities.” We’ve seen these charges called tips, gratuities, crew incentives, or service charges .

No matter the language, they all end up being the same thing — a set daily charge to passengers that’s passed on to the crew.

How Much You’ll Pay in Cruise Gratuities

The amount you pay will vary by cruise line, but they are all in the same ballpark. You can expect to pay about $15-$20 per person, per day. Most lines charge $16 at the moment, but it steadily rises each year.

A couple traveling together will see about $30-$40 per day in gratuities, or about $200+ over the course of a week-long cruise.

Below, we’ve listed the current tip amounts charged by major cruise lines as of the time of this writing:

• Carnival : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• Celebrity : $18.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for those in Concierge Class and AquaClass cabins. $23.00 per person, per day for guest of The Retreat. Source .
• Disney : $14.50 per person, per day. $15.50 per person, per day for those staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites. Source .
• Holland America : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.50 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
• Norwegian : $20.00 per person, per day. $25.00 per person, per day staying in suites and The Haven. Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• MSC Cruises : $16.00 per person, per day. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay $8 per day. Passengers under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• Princess : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.00 per person, per day staying in mini-suites. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
• Royal Caribbean : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for guests in suites and higher. Source .

How Are Cruise Line Gratuities Paid?

How do you actually pay tips on the cruise ship? In the past, the process used to be that the cruise line would put envelopes in your room on the last day of the cruise. Passengers would then put cash in the envelope for the crew members. These days, everything is automatic.

When you book the cruise you’ll have the ability to prepay gratuities . You are charged a set amount, per person, per day. You simply pay this extra amount in full for your cruise as part of your cruise fare.

If you don’t decide to prepay the tips, then the amount is automatically charged to your onboard account each day. When it comes time to settle your final bill at the end of the cruise, you’ll have the gratuity charges to pay as well.

Want to tip more? You can still hand out cash to individual members of the staff that you appreciate, although it’s not required.

Is Every Passenger Charged Gratuities? 

The vast majority of passengers are charged these tips, no matter if they are young, old, have special requests, eat in the main dining room, or only hit the buffet.

That said, some cruise lines make exceptions for small kids. For example, Carnival does not charge tips for kids under two years old. Norwegian Cruise Lines doesn’t charge gratuities for kids under three. However, for the most part you can expect that every passenger on your trip will see a charge.

Here are the policies for major cruise lines:

• Carnival : Guests under 2 years old aren’t charged gratuity.
• Disney : All guests pay gratuities at their discretion.
• Holland America : All guests pay gratuities.
• Norwegian : Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity.
• MSC Cruises : Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay half amounts.
• Princess : All guests pay gratuities.
• Royal Caribbean : All guests pay gratuities.

How Can I Know How Much I Will Be Charged in Tips?

When you book your cruise, the gratuity amount is usually disclosed in full for your trip, with an option to prepay the amount with your cruise fare.

If you’d like to calculate exactly what your gratuity amount will be before you book your trip, then you can use our calculator here . Simply enter the cruise line, length of trip, and the number of passengers and it will show you precisely how much you’ll be charged.

Can I Adjust the Amount of Gratuities?

For most people, the service they receive on a cruise is outstanding. They recognize that the staff goes above and beyond to make their vacation enjoyable. But that’s not always the case. With millions of passengers sailing every year, there’s inevitably going to be someone who feels they received poor service.

If that’s the case — and you decide you want to change the amount you are charged for tips — then you can do that. Gratuity charges are typically not mandatory and can be adjusted. To do so, simply head down to Guest Services on the ship to tell them that you want to change your tip amounts.

That said, it’s unusual to adjust the gratuity amount, and the staff works extremely hard to make your trip enjoyable. If you have a major issue, however, you can change your gratuity amount accordingly.

What If I Don’t Pay Gratuities on my Cruise?

With the introduction of automatic gratuities, it’s much more difficult to avoid paying tips on your cruise. That said, in theory you could request that tips be removed from your account and not tip at all.

So what will happen? As far as your trip, likely very little. The staff isn’t likely to treat you any differently or even know that you aren’t tipping (after all, some people still like to pay cash at the end of the cruise). They will still go out of their way to make your cruise comfortable and enjoyable.

That said, if you don’t pay gratuities, then it’s the staff that will be hurting — not the cruise line. The cruise line collects the tips and then distributes them accordingly. Without your contribution, the compensation for the staff members will decrease. For staff members that rely on these dollars, that can be a major blow.

How to Pay Extra (If You Want)

Want to pay more in gratuity? That’s allowed. In fact, the staff will love that you want to give them more money. If you want to pay extra, we suggest simply handing cash directly to the people you want to recognize for their service. This happens regularly for passengers feeling generous or thankful for the staff’s work during their trip. In fact, your cruise line might leave a few envelopes in your room exactly for this purpose.

Should I Prepay the Gratuity Charges?

When you book your cruise, you’ll be given the opportunity to prepay the gratuities. In this case, you can simply choose to have them lumped in with your cruise fare, paying them all at once.

The advantage is that you get your payment out of the way ahead of time. So when you’re on the ship, it’s one less charge to worry about.

On the other hand, many people choose to instead pay the gratuity charges automatically through their onboard account once on the ship . Each day there will be a gratuity charge — or a lump sum added at the end of the trip.

The advantage here is that you get to hold on to more of your money for longer. Instead of handing over the charges well in advance of your sailing, you can keep it until you’re actually on your cruise.

Bottom line is that it comes down to personal preference. You can get the charge out of the way early, or hold onto your money until you actually sail.

Who Gets the Gratuities That You Pay?

From the passenger perspective, the gratuity amount is simple — pay a set amount per person, per day, and be done.

On the cruise line side, that money gets cut up to be distributed. The tips are spread out between the room steward, dining staff, and others that have customer-facing positions. That said, cruise lines are quiet on exactly how the charges are distributed.

The good thing for passengers about gratuities is that this distribution is done automatically by the cruise line instead of having to give tips to several different staff members at the end of your cruise.

Why Aren’t Gratuities Just Included in the Price of the Cruise?

For some cruise lines (usually luxury lines), gratuities actually are included in the fare — you don’t pay anything extra apart from your cruise fare.

However, for the majority of mass market cruise lines the gratuities are extra charges on the price of your cruise. These can be a surprise to some people, especially first-time passengers.

While the cruise lines might say differently, we think that gratuities aren’t included in the headline price for marketing purposes. There’s little doubt that the extra tips can be expensive. The cost for two people on a week-long cruise can be well above $200.

Meanwhile, cruise fares are often shown as dirt-cheap prices. They are often expressed as the rate for a single person (despite having to pay for double occupancy) and don’t include port fees or taxes. Having to add in gratuity costs to these advertised rates could make them less attractive to potential cruisers.

How Often Do the Gratuity Rates Increase?

The tipping rates charged change from time to time. We’ve seen instances of multiple increases in a year and other times when rates won’t change for a year or two. Just like the price of anything else, you should expect over time for these rates to continue to rise slowly but surely. Typical increases are around $1 per person, per day and seem to happen about once a year. 

One perk of pre-paying gratuities is that if you pre-pay and the rate later increases, you aren’t charged the higher rate.

Who Else to Tip While On the Ship

You would think that paying a hefty daily tip would cover everyone on the ship. In fact, there are a couple of instances where paying additional gratuity is recommended or automatic.

First, any time that you buy a drink from the bar, you will be charged an extra tip, usually 18%-20% of the menu price, depending on the cruise line. This happens automatically and will be tacked on to the price. So a $10 menu price on a cocktail is actually around $12.

Be aware that when you sign the receipt there will be another line for an additional tip. Unless you are feeling generous, there’s no need to tip more .

Second, any time that you purchase anything service related — such as dinner at a specialty restaurant or a service at the spa — expect there to be a tip added on to the cost. Again, this normally runs around 18%, but can range from 15% to 20%, depending on the cruise line.

Finally, if you order anything from room service, then it’s expected that you give a couple of bucks to the staff member that delivers the food.

Other than that, your gratuity charges cover the housekeeping and dining staff. So when you leave the room you don’t have to put down any extra cash (unless you want to). And when you leave the dining room, no need to drop down any money on the table.

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We have just returned from a Cruise on NCL around the Canaries and Med The Crew was 65% Philipino and were on minimum wage. Although I appreciate that NCL is a USA Company that has no respect for its workers it is why they recruit from Asia, instead of paying a decent living wage they charge the passenger’s outrageous gratuities to compensate for their bad business practices. The only reason they will not add the Gratuites to the original brochure price or remove them like P&O has is then they would have to pay their crew a living wage. In the UK we tip for good service not to prop up the wages of poorly paid employees.

The employer has to pay its employees their salaries And we thé customers should not be worried about this. We pay the Cruise and that’s it. This tipping business is getting out of control and is shifting responsibility from the employers to the clients using our guilty conscience from being on a cruise? Also in the restaurants, hair salons, all businesses …this is all wrong

The baggage porters at the port do not work for the cruise line, but for the port itself. You customarily tip $1 – $2 per bag (more if you want) OR you can NOT tip and risk that the one guy you didn’t tip handles your bag with care and the bag actually makes it on the ship and doesn’t “accidently” get left behind. The risk to me isn’t worth the $5 tip we give for 2 bags. On another subject, what makes Miami the worse port? We just booked a cruise out of Miami for the first time in 10 years. What makes it “the worse”, other than your bad experience with the porters dictating what you should tip, which is 199% wrong, in my opinion.

I don’t understand why we are paying the salaries of the teams and not the cruise line. I know Tui and P&O don’t charge gratuities, it’s actually the choice of the person if they wish to give a tip. I have booked with NCL next year because I’m advised taking my money can either be pre paid or can opt out. I so hope that’s true.

I think this was an excellent way of looking. Have a set routine payout and adjust accordingly to the level of service.

This abuse of tipping allows companies to pay their workers a lower wage and pocket the profits. Whatever happened to just doing the job you’re paid for? Housekeeping is supposed to make up rooms, servers are supposed to serve food… But I’m supposed to pay a hundred bucks a day for a family of five, in the same room, and after I’ve already paid five grand for the cruise? Ridiculous.

All of you have great advice. I too pay in cash and at times have given extra. What do you do about the porters at the ports. I gave always given them money to take my bags to the ship. Tipping is out of control everywhere. In Miami the worst place to board the ship. I have stepped out of the shuttle seeing the conveyer a short distance away. The porter stands there counts the luggage and has told the price for a handling fee. Really, do they get an hourly wage that’s so low they need tip to survive? Are tips required? What the real deal? If tips are not required, do their supervisors know about this up charge?

If I travel with my family of 4, and I pay the waiting $20 ($5 per person) staff each time we eat in the dining room, which would be for dinner only, over 7 days, that would $140. Then if I pay another $5 per person each day for room clean-up, that’s another $140, for a total of $280. I think these amounts are reasonable. But RCCL wants to charge $448. That doesn’t seem fair.

Thank you! You were extremely helpful for my upcoming cruise!

When we researched tipping policy on a recent Princess cruise, we found that the cruise line pools that money and uses it for bonuses, etc. over all its ships, not just the cruise we were on. I find this to be an outrageous ploy to hide the true costs of a cruise. We nearly always opt out of tips and tip whom we want directly.

We are cruising with NCL later this year & we have a beverage package included & gratuities included does that mean we will not pay any more gratuities at end of cruise?

Yes, except if you are sailing in the U.S., then NCL tacks on the gratuities on the amount of the beverage package even though the package is free. So the $99 per day package is free, but you are charged about $20 per day still for the drink package gratuities.

I Agree, we always opt out and give tips to our steward and waiter/waitress at the end of the cruise.

We always hand our tips in cash to the person whose service we wish to commend. We never use a credit card for our on ship account. We deposit cash to use for our onboard account. If gratuities show on our account when we settle at cruise end, we ask for them to be removed. We want the people who earned the tip to receive, not the lousy,greedy, uninvolved government! We rarely buy anything on the ship of value. We use prepaid drink cards to purchase beverages.

Great advice. This is my first cruise. I didnt know I could have the tips removed from my room charges. I detest the idea of: A. not knowing who my tip is going to B. Paying a tip twice C. Paying a standardized tip for poor service. I want the employee to know they received a tip from me. Not to split them across all the employees equally. All service isn’t created equally.

What sucks is the workers then have to pay a tax on the “tip” where we would rather give the workers a “gift” of cash.

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Guide to Cruise Gratuities and Tipping on a Cruise in 2023

Dec 19, 2022 | CRUISE TIPS , POPULAR | 0 comments

Cruise Gratuities and Tipping

Cruise Gratuities, Tips or Tipping can be confusing and always a hot topic of discussion. Depending on which cruise line you choose, there are different policies and suggested tipping rates for gratuities on cruise ships.

You probably thought that once you paid for your cruise, cruise tips would part of your fare, but this isn’t necessarily the case. Our guide will hopefully help you plan and understand cruise tipping etiquette.

For those who are not familiar with the concept of paying gratuities, it can be quite daunting to have to pay cruise ship tips. This article covers the reasons why tipping is appropriate and to whom, when, and how much. Hopefully, this will clear up some of the most common misconceptions and provide helpful advice about why you should pay onboard gratuities.

Why You Should Pay Cruise Gratuities

Paying gratuities and tipping the staff aboard a cruise ship is not compulsory but is considered the right thing to do. Cruise Tipping is a gesture of goodwill to reflect your gratitude for the service provided and to say a big “Thank You” to the crew members. These are the ones who have looked after you throughout your cruise serving your drinks, cleaning your stateroom and keeping everything shipshape.

The main reason for tipping on a cruise is to compensate the relatively low-paid staff for all their hard work. Many of the crew aboard a cruise ship are earning relatively low wages. They make up their income to a reasonable level through the tips and gratuities that most guests pay for the brilliant job done by the crew. People often ask the question: are cruise gratuities mandatory? We hope to answer this question in this article.

Those who complain about the idea of paying cruise gratuities always use the argument that the cruise lines should pay a fair wage to the onboard team members. On the other hand, the cruise lines would counter this by saying one of the most significant incentives to the crew is the prospect of big tips. By using this approach, they believe it encourages the team to work harder and offer the highest levels of service, resulting in a superior onboard experience for all guests. We don’t think than not paying cruise gratuities is an option.

Do You Need To Pay Gratuities on Luxury Cruise Lines?

Many of the Ultra Luxury and Luxury brands have a no-tipping policy because your cruise fare includes all tips. However, there may be some additional tips required for things like the spa. You also may wish to tip specific crew members who have provided exceptional service throughout your cruise. If you feel strongly about going even further in expressing your gratitude to the crew, Regent Seven Seas Cruises have a brilliant scheme where you are encouraged to donate to the Crew Welfare Fund at the Pursers Office. Seabourn Cruise Line also operates a similar system.

A growing number of Cruise Lines now incorporate gratuities and tips as part of the cruise fare. Expect this number to increase over time as more cruises lines make the switch.

Some of these currently include: Azamara , Celestyal Cruises,  Crystal Cruises , Hapag-Lloyd Cruises , Marella Cruises, Paul Gauguin Cruises , P&O Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic River Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line , SeaDream Yacht Club , Silversea Cruises , Virgin Voyages and Uniworld

Some Package Offers Include Pre-paid Gratuities

Cruise lines need to fill their ships. To help them do this, from time to time, they offer promotions, often referred to as ‘packages.’ The infamous ‘drinks package’ is the most popular, but offers often include prepaid cruise gratuities. These can represent considerable savings on your cruise.

If your offer consists of onboard credit, you could use this to offset your onboard gratuities account. A good cruise travel agent will be able to help you find all these offers particularly early in the New Year during the ‘Wave Season’ which is the traditional one or two months at the start of the year when cruise sales are at thier peak.

It is always worth asking if your travel agent will give you something themesleves as a ‘thank  you’ for your business rather than just relying on the cruise line offers.

Tipping Starts Before You Board Your Cruise Ship

Seasoned cruisers know one of the most nervous times is waiting for your luggage to appear in your stateroom. The worst thing that can happen is that just your luggage tags turn up!

So when you are pierside consider giving your luggage handler a $2- $5 tip per item, depending upon the size, weight and amount of your luggage. If you’re travelling alone and with only one large piece of luggage, a $5 tip is appropriate. Consider the gratuity as a kind of insurance that your bags will make it safely onto the ship.

Some of the Luxury and Ultra Luxury All-Inclusive cruise lines will often have baggage handlers of their own from the ship, and they do not expect tips as these are all included in the cruise fare.

How Cruise Gratuities and Tipping Works

The cruise industry has tried to make tipping less complicated and less stressful by implementing automatic tipping on mainstream cruise lines. These systems are now the accepted mechanism for gratuities while on board, and it just happens automatically.

Unlike the cruising days gone by, these policies mean that cruisers don’t have to spend the last day of their voyage running around the ship handing out envelopes of cash to every room steward, waiter, and bartender they met during the cruise.

But still, tipping etiquette on cruises can be a little confusing with each cruise line having a tipping policy of its own. While these are usually well publicised, it is vital to understand how it works on your cruise. If in doubt you should check online or directly with the cruise line.

Different rates will apply based on the level of accommodation you booked. So for example and inside cabin on a lower deck with generally have a lower gratuity rate per day than say a Penthouse Suite.

How Much to Tip on a Cruise

So how much are cruise gratuities? On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $11.50 – $18.00 per passenger per day for onboard gratuities. As already mentioned, many cruise lines charge the tips to your account daily, and you can monitor the charges on your shipboard bill. Other cruise lines wait until the end of your cruise and then add the tips to your account.

With the move to auto tipping policies in recent years here’s an overview of what you might expect to pay on the various cruise lines. Depending upon your cruise line and accommodation, these amounts may vary by a few dollars.

• Carnival Cruise Line $16 per person per day in staterooms; $18 per person per day in suites. An automatic 18% gratuity applies to all beverages.
• Celebrity Cruises $17.50 per person, per day, in staterooms; $18 per person, per day, in Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms; and $21 per person, per day, in suites.
• Celestyal Cruises With Celestyal Cruises Port, Service Charges & Gratuities are all included in the cruise fare.
• Costa Cruises Costa calculates its auto-gratuities based on the length of your voyage, the destination, and the ship, but you can expect a charge of Euro 11.00 per person per day. Beverages attract a gratuity of 15%
• Cruise & Maritime Cruise & Maritime automatically add gratuities to your onboard account. The rate is currently £7 per person per night (£6 per person for cruises longer than 16 nights). On the 600 guest ship Astor, there is a charge of $12 per person per night or $10 per person for cruises of more than 11 nights. There are no extra service charges.
• Crystal Gratuities are included in the cruise fare but expect an 18% service charge on spa treatments.
• Cunard Cruise Line Britannia-level passengers are charged $11.50 per person per day, and Grill Class passengers pay $13.50 per person per day. As part of the Cunard Gratuities system, Beverages attract a gratuity of 15%
• Disney Cruise Line The recommended gratuity is $14.50 per person per day and $15.50 per day for guests in Concierge staterooms and suites. Beverages and other extras attract a gratuity of 18%
• Hapag-Lloyd All gratuities onboard are included in the price of the cruise. Acknowledgement of particularly excellent service is at the discretion of each guest.
• Holland America Line $16 per person per day for those staying in staterooms and $17.5 per person per day for suite guests. A gratuity of 18% is added to optional purchases of beverage packages, drinks, dining room and speciality dining, private events, and other elected products.
• Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Gratuities are typically charged at £5 per day.
• Hurtigruten Hurtigruten has two separate tipping policies. On its coastal voyages in Norway, there’s a no-tipping policy. On expedition cruises, Hurtigruten recommends a gratuity of 80 NOK (approximately $12 USD) per day per guest. There are no gratuities added to alcoholic beverages.
• Marella Cruises No service charges apply as Marella Cruises is now an All-Inclusive cruise line.
• MSC Cruises MSC gratuities are based on the voyage destination. For cruises booked in the UK, Gratuities are included. For all other MSC cruises, different gratuities apply based on region but expect to pay between $10USD and $15USD per person per day.
• Norwegian Cruise Line The NCL service charge is $20 per person per day in Club Balcony Suite and below and $25.00 USD per person per day for The Haven and Suites.
• Oceania Cruises Oceania cruise gratuities are $18 per person per day for staterooms and $23 per person per day for guests staying in a Penthouse, Oceania, Vista, or Owner’s suites. A 20% service gratuity is automatically added to all beverage purchases, spa services and dinner at La Reserve.
• P&O Cruises From 2019, the cruise fare includes P&O gratuities. Tipping staff is neither required nor expected, but if you choose to do so, then that’s entirely your decision.
• Paul Gauguin No service charge applies to Paul Gaugin Cruises, as the cruise fare includes all gratuities. You can reward staff members directly if you wish to acknowledge above-and-beyond service. An 18 per cent gratuity applies to spa services.
• Princess Cruises $16 per person, per day, for those staying in staterooms; $17 per person, per day, for mini-suites; and $17 per person per day for suite guests.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises Regent is the Most Inclusive of all cruise lines, including all gratuities in their cruise fares.
• Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean gratuities start at $16 per person per day for Stateroom and Junior Suite guests and $18.50 per person per day for Grand Suite and higher passengers. An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all beverages, mini bar items, and spa & salon purchases.
• Saga All Gratuities are included on Saga Cruises.
• Scenic Ocean Cruises Included in your cruise fare and all tips and gratuities for drivers, local guides, porters, and waiting staff are included in your cruise fare.
• Seabourn Cruise Line All Gratuities are included with Seabourn
• Silversea Cruises All Gratuities are included with Silversea
• Viking Ocean Cruises $15 per person, per day.
• Virgin There are no gratuities to pay as the line has revealed it is gratuity-free.
• Windstar Cruises The Hotel Service Charge for Windstar gratuities is $14.50 per person per day. All bar bills attract a service charge of 15%. An All-In Package is now available from Windstar

Information and rates updated 2023

When to Tip on a Cruise

Most cruise lines who charge for gratuities apply these automatically, which are due for payment at the end of your cruise. However, there are other options available when it comes to paying your gratuities.

If you prefer to have the automatically-added tips removed from your account, you can generally request this at the Reception (Purser’s) Desk. You can then hand out gratuities and gifts to those who have worked hard for you during your cruise. The last cruise day is typically when this happens.

In Europe, Euros are the preferred currency for tipping on both ocean and river cruises.

You will find that most cruise staff ship will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and exceptional. Many go the extra mile by providing excellent service and cater for your every need.​ Whether it’s your cabin steward fulfilling a special request or the bartender remembering your name and favourite drink, there are lots of reasons why you may feel that is right to give a particular crew member a little extra. In this case, you should try to give out cash tips on the last full day of your cruise.

It is also a good idea to consider a tip to the right person at the beginning of your cruise which can improve your experience and offering the staff member the motivation to provide the very best service for the rest of your vacation.

Who to Tip on a Cruise

However, there are individual crew members, such as your ship’s captain and other high ranking officers who are generally exceptionally well paid without receiving gratuities and so you would not typically offer these. Whether you tip the Maître d’ is up to you, depending on how he has looked after you. On the last night or the morning of departure, we always give an extra tip to our room steward when we say goodbye.

We have found that unusual gifts are always very well received. If we have flown out from the UK, we generally visit the Harrods Duty-Free shop and buy unique Harrods branded products to give as gifts to the crew. If we feel they don’t deserve them, we simply take them home as gifts for our family.

They do such a great job to make sure your stateroom is kept in tip-top condition throughout your voyage and they really don’t earn so much money.

What About the Crew Not on The Gratuities List?

Some of the crew and onboard service providers don’t always get included in the cruise line automatically-included gratuities system. Since these are people that may have helped you during your cruise, it’s nice to add them separately.

These may include:

• Children’s Club and Teens Club staff
• Bartenders and Mixologists: An upfront tip always works wonders if you plan to frequent the same bar during your cruise
• Sommelier, aka Wine Waiter: Based on their involvement, $10 or $20 can be appropriate. Where there is no sommelier, and your waiter looks after your drinks, it is a nice touch to reward them.
• Shore Excursion Guide: $10-20 depending on how long your tour was for and how good they were
• Shore Excursion Guide driver: $1.00 – $2.00

Conclusions

Cruise gratuities can be confusing and daunting if you don’t know the protocol. Hopefully, this handy guide will at least help you understand how tipping on a cruise works.

Whether paying cruise gratuities automatically onboard is an option or paying gratuities in cash is your choice. It is important to remember that most crew members rely on tips to subsidise their basic pay and will go out of their way to ensure you have a wonderful time onboard. To be fair to the crew, always think twice and remember the service you enjoyed before considering not paying cruise gratuities and removing gratuities from your bill.

Related: 10 Essential Cruise Gadgets you Didn’t Know you Needed

Helpful Hint

You will also find that an increasing number of cruises lines offer “ All-Inclusive Fares ” where everything (well almost) is included, including Pre-Paid Gratuities. Always make sure you understand the cruise line gratuity policy at the time of booking. If you do choose to go on a “ Pay As You Go ” plan, then expect a massive Gratuities Bill end of your cruise.

FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions

Are gratuities mandatory on a cruise.

In theory no, but you should have a good reason not to pay them. If you experience poor service on a cruise then you should address this whilst on board.  Cruise  Gratuities  are not normally  mandatory , but you are encouraged to pay them and in many cases, these are added automatically.

What happens if you don't tip on a cruise?

Most cruise  lines work on the basis that the crew members’ pay structure is based on receiving tips.   If you  choose not to  tip, for whatever reason ,  you  are impacting the salaries of the crew who have served  you  so well during your cruise.

Do all cruise lines automatically charge gratuities?

Nowadays most of the major cruise lines do have automatic systems to whereby gratuities get added to your onboard account. However, Some All-Inclusive cruise lines include all gratuities in the cruise fare.

How much do you tip at the end of a cruise?

It depends on your cruise line as they are all different. Some cruise lines are now inclusive so you do not need to worry about tips as they are all taken care of.

Should you prepay gratuities on a cruise

This is a matter of personal choice. You can prepay your gratuities (tips) when booking your cruise, but you then have no control over who gets what. In the event of bad service (unlikely), you have already paid out!

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• Oceania Cruises

Gratuities increase

By kahuna21 , December 10, 2023 in Oceania Cruises

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The Points Guy says that NCL has increased gratuities to $20 / $25 (butler suites). Oceania has been $18 / $23. Has Oceania announced an increase?

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I am not aware of an increase.  Oceania's website shows $18/$23.  

Here is the link from their website:

https://oceaniacruises.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360005307374-How-much-are-Gratuities-and-can-they-be-prepaid-

shepherd really

If you have OCAAP gratuities and O raises the rate after the credit is issued, do they just adject it to reflect the current rate?

Just a hypothetical at this point.

3 hours ago, shepherd really said: If you have OCAAP gratuities and O raises the rate after the credit is issued, do they just adject it to reflect the current rate?   Just a hypothetical at this point.

Don’t know if they adject it, but in our experience the PPG is adjusted.  But what has happened in the past is not necessarily a predictor of what happens in the future.

6 hours ago, shepherd really said: If you have OCAAP gratuities and O raises the rate after the credit is issued, do they just adject it to reflect the current rate?   Just a hypothetical at this point.

We had ours adjusted when they went from $16 to $18 a year or so ago...

21 hours ago, kahuna21 said: The Points Guy says that NCL has increased gratuities to $20 / $25 (butler suites). Oceania has been $18 / $23. Has Oceania announced an increase?

@kahuna21  NCL has two rates.  One is the Non-Haven Rate and the other is the Haven Rate.  In the Haven Rate it is more but it is important to recognize it "DOES NOT" include the gratuities for the butler. This situation of not including the butler always confused me.  

I just went on Oceania Cruises.  We had a Butler.  Oceania includes the butlers in their gratuities program.  Just like NCL, the gratuities amounts are higher for Penthouse and above.  I still provide my butler with extra over and above the Gratuities paid.  However it is nice to know they are part of the gratuities program.  Just my two cents.

Side Note: One of the main reasons I cruise is the Crew.  I have traveled all my life and rarely did I ever have a staff so committed to excellence in a hotel.  These fine and hard working folks deserve a raise if that is what Oceania has in the future.  No issue from my clan. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

Where do I pay for the gratuities? On our booking, the only gratuities I see is under Drink packages and nothing is clickable.

16 minutes ago, patty1955 said: Where do I pay for the gratuities? On our booking, the only gratuities I see is under Drink packages and nothing is clickable.  

When I go in under Manage Bookings on my account you are correct they are included with the Shop Beverage Packages section. However, for me after each guest there are the options to purchase with a choice to select one of them by clicking on circle.    

When does your cruise depart? For example beverage packages must be purchased at least 7 days prior to the cruise, perhaps same applies to prepaid gratuities???? 

1 hour ago, EJL2023 said: When I go in under Manage Bookings on my account you are correct they are included with the Shop Beverage Packages section. However, for me after each guest there are the options to purchase with a choice to select one of them by clicking on circle.     When does your cruise depart? For example beverage packages must be purchased at least 7 days prior to the cruise, perhaps same applies to prepaid gratuities???? 

Our cruise is next September. 

I tried it in both Chrome and Firefox and never had the option to select. 

I've got an appointment today but I'll give them a call tomorrow.

38 minutes ago, patty1955 said: Our cruise is next September.  I tried it in both Chrome and Firefox and never had the option to select.  I've got an appointment today but I'll give them a call tomorrow.

Sometimes a call just works best. 

Grats are an onboard charge, I don't think there is a way to pre-pay them.  The gratuities that you're looking at online are for wine packages, separate from the crew grats. (Although it is unclear exactly how they apply - there's an earlier thread dedicated to speculation on this, which I don't believe ever got resolved...)

8 hours ago, EJL2023 said: When I go in under Manage Bookings on my account you are correct they are included with the Shop Beverage Packages section. However, for me after each guest there are the options to purchase with a choice to select one of them by clicking on circle.     When does your cruise depart? For example beverage packages must be purchased at least 7 days prior to the cruise, perhaps same applies to prepaid gratuities???? 

The prepaid gratuities option is indeed under the beverage package option.....it shows as pre-paid under one of the options.  When you check on pre-paid gratuities next to each person's name.  You then click on add to cart and when you view the cart it will show the total amount owed and you can pay for it (but you can not use OBC) so if you have OBC then just wait until onboard and the gratuities will be added and the amount will be subtracted from your available OBC.  It is confusing but that is how is works.

PREPAID GRATUITIES

573_Details

57 minutes ago, basor said: The prepaid gratuities option is indeed under the beverage package option.....it shows as pre-paid under one of the options.  When you check on pre-paid gratuities next to each person's name.  You then click on add to cart and when you view the cart it will show the total amount owed and you can pay for it (but you can not use OBC) so if you have OBC then just wait until onboard and the gratuities will be added and the amount will be subtracted from your available OBC.  It is confusing but that is how is works.  

There is no check next to the name to select it. 

I do know you can prepay, I've prepaid on my other cruise.

1 minute ago, patty1955 said: There is no check next to the name to select it.  I do know you can prepay, I've prepaid on my other cruise.

I don't know what to tell you as I just tried it on all 5 of our upcoming cruises and ti worked that way for all.....I did not pay,  the cart was the place I stopped.    After I checked "prepaid gratuities" it then show our name with the words prepaid gratuities next to them and no other choices....just like your picture shows.  Did you check your cart to see if they are in there?

I posted the screenshot of my screen in number 8. As I said, I'll call them tomorrow

11 hours ago, EJL2023 said: When I go in under Manage Bookings on my account you are correct they are included with the Shop Beverage Packages section. However, for me after each guest there are the options to purchase with a choice to select one of them by clicking on circle.     When does your cruise depart? For example beverage packages must be purchased at least 7 days prior to the cruise, perhaps same applies to prepaid gratuities???? 

The beverage package upgrade for SimplyMore can be purchased onboard. I tried to book it last week but it’s still showing as $69 pppd which is the old price under OLife. I rang my TA who was told by Oceania if it’s booked and paid for pre cruise as silver members we get 10% discount or $30 pppd on board with SimplyMore. If you have OLife then it will be $69 pppd.

16 hours ago, Vallesan said: The beverage package upgrade for SimplyMore can be purchased onboard. I tried to book it last week but it’s still showing as $69 pppd which is the old price under OLife. I rang my TA who was told by Oceania if it’s booked and paid for pre cruise as silver members we get 10% discount or $30 pppd on board with SimplyMore. If you have OLife then it will be $69 pppd.

Some people have advised that upgraded beverage packages must be purchased at least 7 days in advance and others that the upgrade can be purchased on board. Is there any advantage in upgrading in advance?

2 minutes ago, EEB_Ott said: Some people have advised that upgraded beverage packages must be purchased at least 7 days in advance and others that the upgrade can be purchased on board. Is there any advantage in upgrading in advance?

If you purchase on board, you do not have to do it the first day/night. Some people wait and save a day or two of the $30/day/pp.

Thanks for that information!

18 hours ago, Vallesan said: The beverage package upgrade for SimplyMore can be purchased onboard. I tried to book it last week but it’s still showing as $69 pppd which is the old price under OLife. I rang my TA who was told by Oceania if it’s booked and paid for pre cruise as silver members we get 10% discount or $30 pppd on board with SimplyMore. If you have OLife then it will be $69 pppd.

That's not exactly right. If you have Olife the upgrade is also $30 per person. 

I think the difference is that if you have OLife with the basic beverage choice already it is an additional $30 pppd.  If you don't have any beverage package ( only possible if you booked before SM became the new pricing) then it is the higher amount for the full package.

3 hours ago, Woofa said: I think the difference is that if you have OLife with the basic beverage choice already it is an additional $30 pppd.  If you don't have any beverage package ( only possible if you booked before SM became the new pricing) then it is the higher amount for the full package.

That’s my understanding too. Maybe my post wasn’t very clear.

If you upgrade your package on board, or buy either package onboard, in a country that charges a VAT tax, the tax also applies to these packages. So if the upgrade is $30 pp/d, the tax makes it $36/day.

Always something to remember when considering timing of purchase. Unless there has been a change, upgrading the package can only be done aboard ship. For those on OLife ( without drinks package) or cruise only, they could pre buy either package at least seven days prior to boarding.

17 hours ago, pinotlover said: If you upgrade your package on board, or buy either package onboard, in a country that charges a VAT tax, the tax also applies to these packages. So if the upgrade is $30 pp/d, the tax makes it $36/day.   Always something to remember when considering timing of purchase. Unless there has been a change, upgrading the package can only be done aboard ship. For those on OLife ( without drinks package) or cruise only, they could pre buy either package at least seven days prior to boarding.

 How would that work if you were at sea?

6 hours ago, Vallesan said:  How would that work if you were at sea?

That’s a bit complicated. Being at Sea may not make a difference depending upon the next port. 

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9 bucket list cruises for seniors and retirees.

These cruise lines appeal to older travelers with adults-only sailings, accessible staterooms and more.

Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Make the memories of a lifetime on a cruise for seniors and retirees.

Cruises are an often dreamt-about retirement goal, especially for long-time cruise lovers who have always been short on time. Retirement can be the ideal season of life to sail off into the sunset for several weeks, whether to far-off lands like Antarctica or a peaceful journey down the Danube. In some cases, seniors embrace their golden years by booking epic, monthslong voyages around the world.

Many small- and medium-sized ships cater to the over-60 crowd, but that doesn't mean guests will be relegated to shuffleboard and bingo games. Today's seniors still have plenty of adventures to experience and memories to make, both on board and on shore. The following cruise lines offer the top bucket list sailings for seniors and retirees.

Windstar Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, oceania cruises, holland america line, cunard line, aurora expeditions.

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Anyone who has ever fancied a near-private yacht-style cruise experience will love the vibe of Windstar Cruises. Each of its yachts holds between 148 and 342 guests, with a 1-to-1.5 crew-to-guest ratio. This makes for more intimate sailings – not only because there's simply less ship to maneuver on foot, but also because Windstar ships have access to ports that megaships aren't permitted to enter. The end result is the unique ability to explore lesser-known destinations and smaller cities. While Windstar is not a strictly adults-only cruise line , you won't see any little ones on board, either. Children must be at least 8 years old to sail on the line, which further adds to the high-end ambiance.

In 2021 and 2022, Windstar's Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend ships received a refresh. The three all-suite yachts were cut in half and enhanced with new suites and amenities, bringing the capacity to 312 passengers on each vessel. These Star Plus Class ships also boast new restaurants, a reimagined spa and fitness center, and more efficient engines, among other improvements. Elevators help make the Star Plus Class ships more accessible for anyone with limited mobility (note that Wind Class ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit do not have elevators). Additionally, Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend each have four wheelchair-accessible suites, which feature a smaller queen bed and reduced "wheel around" space.

On board, passengers can drop by the Open Bridge anytime for an impromptu lesson in chart reading, listen to live music in the Lounge or jump directly into the water from the Watersports Platform. Culinary highlights include restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, which serves a twist on modern Spanish cuisine by the 10-time Michelin-starred chef, as well as culinary shore excursions with hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market tours to explore fresh local ingredients.

The cruise industry is abuzz with interest in one of Windstar's newest itineraries, which introduces passengers to the Middle East. The Inaugural Sparkling Sands & Cities itinerary sets sail in November 2023, visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; and Muscat, Oman, among others. Foodies will be especially interested in the James Beard Foundation's Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf itinerary, scheduled to embark in February 2024. Windstar's other destinations include Asia, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific and more.

Read: How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Adam Hillier | Courtesy of Viking

Spanning seven continents via river, ocean and expedition vessels, Viking is considered a quintessential high-end cruise experience. For more than 25 years, it has provided destination-focused sailings designed to allow its guests to explore the world in supreme comfort. Its voyages particularly appeal to travelers older than 50 who are interested in science, history, culture and cuisine.

Every Viking cruise fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, onboard meals, beer and wine (with lunch and dinner service), Wi-Fi access, and all port charges and government taxes. On Viking's ocean and expedition vessels, guests also enjoy complimentary self-service laundry, access to the Thermal Suite in The Spa, high tea service, alternative restaurant dining and 24-hour room service. But the best part for older cruisers may be what's not included on Viking sailings: kids. This adults-only cruise line is dedicated to guests 18 and older.

Viking's fleet – with capacities ranging from 80 to 998 passengers (on river and ocean cruises, respectively) – feature elegant Scandinavian-style decor. The small ship cruises get closer to their destinations, spend more time in port and include more overnight stays, too.

One of Viking's newest ocean vessels, the all-veranda Viking Saturn, debuted in 2023 and focuses on European sailings. Its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean route from Venice to Athens is particular popular, with stops in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Greece. Another in-demand route is the Danube Christmas Delights itinerary on the Viking Longships, which visits enchanting villages, cultural capitals and iconic Christmas markets for a festive holiday cruise .

To suit their needs, guests can choose between different activity levels for walking tour-focused shore excursions. For bibliophiles, The Library on each ship is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute on the expedition vessels. Viking also holds exclusive partnerships with prestigious scientific institutions, which makes it possible for at least 36 experts – including field research scientists, mountain guides, submarine pilots and other specialists – to accompany passengers on each expedition journey.

Book a  Viking cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Billed as one of the world's most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines , Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features small ships with an average capacity of 120 guests and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the rivers of 1-to-2.4. Part of the allure of the small ship size is a more personalized travel experience that delivers passengers to destinations ocean liners aren't able to visit (such as the Venetian Lagoon, where large ships have been banned from entry).

Uniworld ships are akin to floating boutique hotels, designed to reflect the destinations in which they sail – a vast list that includes ports in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Guests will appreciate the exquisite details on board, including unique artwork from some of the most famous artists in the world (think: Pablo Picasso and David Hockney), handmade fabrics from local artisans and handcarved furnishings.

Additionally, Uniworld's all-inclusive cruise experience includes all onboard meals, which are made with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, as well as unlimited premium spirits and fine wines. In the base fare, voyages also include a selection of shore excursions, daily entertainment, fitness centers, wellness classes, airport transfers, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi access and more.

Uniworld makes it particularly easy to visit many of Europe's most enchanting Christmas towns on a single cruise, where passengers can visit the festive holiday markets and get all their seasonal shopping done. For seniors with more time to spare, the Rivers of the World Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This 55-day itinerary departs from Lima, Peru , in October 2024 and takes 40 guests across three continents via four ships to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Find  Uniworld Boutique River Cruises  on GoToSea.

This upscale brand recently relaunched under A&K Travel Group with a reimagined vision. Crystal Serenity (which holds up to 740 guests) and Crystal Symphony (carrying up to 606 passengers) underwent a combined $150 million dollar refurbishment that includes updated suites and new wellness offerings at the Aurōra spa. While sailing the high seas with Crystal, passengers' needs are met at every step of the way – a perk made possible by the nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. A dedicated butler in every stateroom and suite will help with packing and unpacking, stocking your fridge, making restaurant reservations, booking excursions and more.

Crystal offers impressive enrichment programming, hosting high-profile lecturers with backgrounds in sports, entertainment and science. Spend some time refining your technology skills at Computer University@Sea and perfecting your ballroom dance moves, photography abilities, golf swing or bridge game. There's also a well-stocked library containing books on a range of subjects, along with board games and a pickleball court.

Dining options on board include Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian dining venue developed by Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Unlike some other cruise lines that charge a fee for each specialty dining reservation, Crystal allows guests to enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for sailings of 11 days or less. After dinner, nightly entertainment can be found in several venues, such as live music in the Galaxy Lounge.

Crystal sails on itineraries of varying length to the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa and the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, and Asia. If you're planning a bucket list trip, consider the line's 123-night 2025 World Cruise, which travels to 62 destinations across 31 countries between Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Barcelona, Spain .

Read: Crystal Symphony Review: First Impressions of Crystal's Revamped Ship

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Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Seniors with a penchant for epicurean delights tend to gravitate toward Oceania Cruises for their cruise vacations – it's known for having one of the finest culinary programs at sea. This cruise line focuses on small ship luxury, with seven ships currently in service carrying between 670 and 1,250 passengers each. An eighth ship, Allura, is set to debut in 2025.

Newer ships like the Vista – the first of the Allura class vessels, which joined the fleet in May 2023 – have wheelchair-accessible rooms and a plethora of onboard culinary venues. A few highlights include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes; The Bakery at Baristas, serving freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant Ember, an upscale American eatery. Don't miss the Cellar Master's Wine Luncheon: a two-hour, hand-selected tasting led by the head sommelier that features a five-course menu paired with premium wines for each dish.

Senior cruisers will enjoy the Aquamar Spa's signature massage therapies, which use natural ingredients and modern techniques to release stress and tension. The Vitality Center offers a steam room, a thalassotherapy pool and heated lounge beds for extra relief. Onboard entertainment on Oceania, meanwhile, includes musical performances and immersive shows with dance numbers led by "Dancing With the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart. The Culinary Center is a fan favorite for seniors, offering the opportunity to practice cooking techniques and learn about the unique flavor profiles of regional dishes.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a location Oceania doesn't sail to, with cruises to Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, Antarctica and more, as well as transoceanic voyages and 180-day world cruises. Oceania also provides a good overall value, thanks to its included specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, round-trip airfare and transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

Explore  Oceania Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

As a premium, midsize cruise line, Holland America Line offers plenty of destinations, excursions and activities aligned to an older audience. The smaller ship size, which averages around 2,000 passengers per sailing, allows for many of the ships to dock in ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, getting passengers even closer to the destinations they're visiting. For older passengers who may have limited mobility, the option to simply disembark the ship without waiting for a tender or other means of transportation can make or break a trip.

Holland America Line, though family-friendly, offers myriad excursions that are primarily adult-oriented and open to all types of adventurers. Shore excursions are clearly marked with an activity level ranging from easy to strenuous, from leisurely wine tastings and relaxing strolls through ancient towns to ATV rides through the jungle and dog-sledding on a glacier only accessible via helicopter.

Onboard entertainment and activities are plentiful; guests often enjoy the multiple music lounges and venues on each ship, along with hosted programs such as bingo and trivia. For seniors who can't get enough of the pickleball trend, Holland America Line has partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring branded courts and equipment on board. After all that action on the court, unwind in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon with a rejuvenating treatment. (Pro tip: Add on the Thermal Suite for access to the healing hydrotherapy circuit and heated, tiled loungers that will melt all your cares away.)

The numerous onboard dining options bring together cuisines and flavors from all over the world, with specialty restaurants featuring menus developed by a team of master chefs known as Holland America's Culinary Council. In addition to casual dining in the Lido Market and multicourse affairs in The Dining Room, each ship also features the Pinnacle Grill, an onboard steakhouse offering high-end meats and seafood. Other specialty restaurants vary by ship and may include Italian eatery Canaletto and the French-inspired Rudi's Sel de Mer.

Holland America Line sails all over the world. It does an especially nice job with its Greek island cruises and Adriatic Sea adventures. One of the line's newest ships, Rotterdam , is a crowd-pleaser with its sleek design details and an onboard art collection valued at more than $4.1 million. Still, longtime favorites like the refurbished Oosterdam and Eurodam host plenty of happy guests.

Compare  Holland America Line  cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Azamara

Another all-inclusive, senior-friendly brand is Azamara, which boasts a long list of perks covered in the base fare. Your one-time payment covers meals and beverages, including standard spirits, international beers and a limited amount of wine by the glass; you can upgrade to a beverage package if you'd like access to premium brands. Other included amenities range from self-service laundry to gratuities to special cultural evenings featuring onboard or onshore performances by locals.

There are four ships in Azamara's fleet. Each carries up to 702 passengers, so they still fit comfortably into the small ship category and can access less-visited ports than larger vessels. Destinations on Azamara include ports throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, and the Caribbean; there are also transoceanic itineraries. If spending roughly half a year on a cruise ship sounds like your ideal retirement plan, consider the Azamara World Voyage in 2025. Over 155 nights, you'll visit 37 countries.

Each of the line's ships has staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, and Azamara has created customized shore excursion tours for guests with disabilities as well. Accessible tours are designed for full-time wheelchair users or guests unable to navigate motor-coach steps.

There are plenty of entertainment options on board, including Club Crooner's hits from current and classic songbirds, as well as ship-specific venues with various song and dance performances. Plus, every cruise hosts a White Night signature dinner and entertainment event on the pool deck (so be sure to pack your favorite white attire). Unwind with darts, arts and crafts, pingpong, shuffleboard, trivia contests, bingo and dance lessons. Don't miss opportunities to attend lectures through the enrichment program.

Find an  Azamara  cruise on GoToSea.

Christopher Ison | Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line's ocean liners have sailed between the U.K. and New York since 1840 – and the brand's relationship with the British monarchy is integral to its heritage. As such, each ship is named after a British queen. The newest ship, Queen Anne, joins the fleet in 2024.

In keeping with its history, Cunard Line has several signature experiences that help set the brand apart. Afternoon tea is a Cunard tradition observed daily in the Queen's Room; expect white-gloved waiters serving scones and finger sandwiches alongside infused teas in silver teapots (add Champagne for an additional fee). During gala evenings, guests don tuxedos and ballgowns for a sophisticated celebration you won't soon forget. Themes range from Masquerade to Roaring 20s; you'll get a heads-up before you pack your cruise attire .

Each of the four stateroom grades has its own dedicated fine dining restaurant with excellent service and indulgent menus, though there are several casual dining options as well – not to mention specialty dining venues for an additional fee. A host of activities will keep you busy day and night, including a library, open-air pools, fitness facilities, live music, theater performances, guest speaker events, board games, film screenings, art classes, planetarium shows (on Queen Mary 2) and group dance classes.

Accessible shore experiences are available in many ports, ranging from lower activity-level tours to adaptations for wheelchair users. Accessible staterooms are available on Queen Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 ; these come with modifications like wider entryways, nonslip bathroom floors and shower seats.

Explore  Cunard Line  deals on GoToSea.

Scott Portelli | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Nothing says "once-in-a-lifetime" quite like embarking on an expedition to the world's most remote destinations – and, specifically, to Antarctica. For cruisers looking to explore this far-off land, Aurora Expeditions is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Founded by legendary adventurer Greg Mortimer, the brand sends an education-focused expedition team on each voyage, with a ratio of about one team member per every eight passengers. With an average of just 132 cruisers on these sailings, you'll get more one-on-one time with your expedition team.

Seniors can climb aboard Aurora Expeditions' Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle ship for innovative itineraries to the Great White Continent. When the ship isn't pausing to watch breaching whales, passengers can kayak between icebergs, visit penguin colonies or take guided hikes across the tundra. Aurora describes its cruises as "100% climate neutral," with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

All of Aurora Expeditions' voyages let travelers explore at their own pace, making it a great option for all ages. There are many included activities on each expedition, such as bird-watching, photography, lectures on wildlife, Zodiac cruises and near-shore excursions. The line will even outfit you with Muck boots and waterproof polar jackets. The entire voyage is laid-back, with an informal dress code.

On board, all cabins have a view of the ocean, and most have their own balcony. Tips are included in the cost of your cruise, and guests can enjoy a complimentary house wine or beer with dinner. Look forward to hearty dishes to help fuel your activities, with some buffet-style meals, a la carte options and a reservations-required restaurant on each ship.

Read: The Top Antarctica Cruises

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the mid-'90s and has since visited dozens of destinations around the globe. Whether she's on the newest megaship, an older small ship or a luxury yacht, she loves life at sea. She used extensive research and her decades of experience as a cruiser to write this article (she has taken two cruises with her 70-year-old dad just this year). Schildhouse covers the travel industry for myriad top-tier outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, AARP, Fodor's, Reader's Digest and Insider.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

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These major cruise lines are changing their displayed prices. Here's why.

• California Senate Bill 478 – also known as the “Honest Pricing Law” or “Hidden Fees Statute” – will take effect Monday.
• The law bans businesses from listing or advertising “a price for a good or service that does not include all required fees or charges other than certain government taxes and shipping costs.”

That is changing how many major cruise lines display their prices, and not just for travelers in the Golden State.

Cruise prices may look higher as of next week – but that doesn’t mean they are.

California Senate Bill 478 – also known as the “Honest Pricing Law” or “Hidden Fees Statute” – will take effect Monday. The law bans businesses from listing or advertising “a price for a good or service that does not include all required fees or charges other than certain government taxes and shipping costs,” according to an FAQ page from the state’s Office of the Attorney General.

“The statute does not change what price a business can charge or what may be included in that cost,” the attorney general's office said. “The law simply requires that the price listed include all mandatory charges.”

Which cruise lines will change how their pricing is listed?

◾ Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises will update the way they display pricing in the U.S. Customers “will now see pricing that is inclusive of their selected cruise fare and all required taxes and fees,” a spokesperson for the brands’ parent company, Royal Caribbean Group , told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. “We are also supporting our travel partners across the country ahead of this upcoming change.”

◾ Norwegian Cruise Line will do the same, incorporating “applicable taxes, fees and port expenses” into advertised prices in the U.S. and Canada by Monday.“This change will only impact the way we display our prices and will not affect the prices that our guests pay to enjoy a cruise with us or the portion of the cruise fare that is commissionable for our travel partners,” a spokesperson for the line said in an emailed statement. “We are committed to delivering exceptional vacation experiences at every step of the cruise journey and we hope this change will provide our guests with a more satisfying booking experience.”

◾ MSC Cruises added government fees and taxes to advertised overall prices for U.S. bookings on Wednesday. “These costs are now seamlessly integrated into the total advertised price, providing a simple and transparent booking experience that will not impact the overall price paid by our guests,” a spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

What are junk fees?: Travelers are drowning in them during the summer of surcharges

◾ Disney Cruise Line plans to comply with the law.

◾ Carnival Corp., which operates major lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and others, also made the change nationally to ensure consistency in advertised pricing, according to a spokesperson for the company.“The great news is that the final price paid hasn't changed, simply the way it is displayed,” they said in an emailed statement. “Our cruise lines still deliver the same great, affordable value and unforgettable cruise experiences vacationers love.”Several others already wrap those costs into their advertised prices, including the high-end Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises – also part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. – Viking and Explora Journeys , the luxury brand from the MSC Group.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

The 12 Best All-Inclusive Cruises for 2024

When it comes to all-inclusive cruises, there are a few different options:

• Luxury cruise lines: All-inclusive cruise rates are available on luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. While more expensive than traditional cruise rates , the fares cover nearly everything, including door-to-door transfers, luxurious suite accommodations, specialty dining , premium alcoholic beverages and excursions. Plus, you don't need to show your cruise card every time you order a latte or a pre-dinner cocktail. You'll disembark the ship with very few, if any, additional charges on your final bill.
• Cruise lines with inclusive pricing: Alternatively, you can consider an upscale cruise line like Viking, which offers fares with more-inclusive pricing and some of the amenities found on board the fully inclusive lines. However, you'll still have to budget for a few expenses, such as immersive excursions and alcoholic beverages beyond wine or beer at lunch and dinner.
• Packages and add-ons: Other cruise lines like Oceania, Windstar and Norwegian offer add-on drink packages and other promos so you can create a more all-inclusive experience.

After comparing the costs between a truly all-inclusive cruise and a sailing with package pricing for the extras, the total price may be closer than you think.

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All-Inclusive Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Regent Seven Seas touts its six ships – with the newest vessel, Seven Seas Grandeur , which debuted in late 2023 – as "the world's most luxurious fleet." The line's intimate ships accommodate up to 750 guests. They feature all ocean-view suites, prestigious museum-quality art collections (including a prized Fabergé egg on the new Grandeur), and itineraries that call on more than 500 destinations around the world.

With Regent's "every luxury included" philosophy and 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares, passengers receive round-trip airfare and transfers between the airport and ship, as well as unlimited shore excursions, two- or three-night land programs (based on the itinerary), and a complimentary pre-cruise hotel package for concierge suites and higher. On the ship, enjoy a fully stocked in-suite minibar; specialty dining; unlimited fine wines, spirits and other beverages; prepaid gratuities; unlimited Wi-Fi; and free valet laundry service.

On top of personalized service, guests sailing on Regent Seven Seas cruises will enjoy immersive exploration ashore – with overnights in some ports of call – and enrichment programs. Top-notch dining includes French cuisine at Chartreuse (on select ships), Pan-Asian fare at Pacific Rim (also on select ships) and Italian fare at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen (available on Grandeur, Splendor and Explorer ), some tours and bespoke excursions, spa treatments, unique offerings, and certain wines and top-shelf liquors come with an additional cost.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Sailing on board one of Silversea's 13 ultra-luxury cruise or expedition ships commences with the line's new chauffeur experience. This door-to-door service transports guests from home to the airport and back home on the return trip. The line's all-inclusive pricing also encompasses international or domestic flights (with business class upgrades in certain destinations), pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, butler service in every suite, all gratuities, gourmet dining, and complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, including Champagne.

Guests will also enjoy a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1-to-1 – and with no more than 728 guests. Other all-inclusive perks include at least one shore excursion in each port plus onboard lectures and programming. On expedition sailings in destinations like Antarctica , all guided Zodiac tours and landings are included in the fare.

When it comes to dining on Silversea ships, gourmet options feature French, Asian and Italian cuisine along with other international fare. For a special evening, S.A.L.T. Kitchen is a new destination-focused concept on Silver Ray, Nova , Moon and Dawn . This immersive dining experience, Sea And Land Taste, was developed in partnership with the former editor-in-chief of "Saveur Magazine," Adam Sachs. The culinary offerings with S.A.L.T. also include shore excursions, where guests can tour a 500-year-old family winery and vineyard in Croatia, visit an organic farm in Denmark, or learn to make gelato in Sicily.

Expenses not covered in Silversea's fare include salon and spa services, personal training sessions, select excursions, upgraded internet packages, and special bottles of wine or liquors.

Compare Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn's seven purpose-built expedition vessels and intimate luxury cruise ships accommodate between 264 and 600 guests. The club-like atmosphere on board its ships comes with highly intuitive and personalized service with about a 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. Each suite also has a dedicated personal suite host and a suite attendant that will cater to your every whim.

All-inclusive fares include oceanfront suites with walk-in closets, living areas and luxurious bathrooms. All Seabourn Encore and Ovation accommodations feature private verandas, while 90% of the suites on Seabourn Odyssey , Sojourn and Quest have balconies. Premium and penthouse suites offer additional amenities and perks.

While aboard Seabourn Cruise Line , guests will enjoy complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, welcome Champagne, and a fully stocked in-suite bar with your personalized selections. Dining is a real treat, with several venues in partnership with renowned chef Thomas Keller, such as the line's signature restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller. Seabourn is also a member of the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy.

Other complimentary amenities on Seabourn's cruise ships include special evenings with dinner and live entertainment; a marina and complimentary water sports; "Caviar in the Surf" on select voyages; movie nights; a chance to shop with the chef at local markets; personal valet luggage shipping service; enrichment lectures; and more.

Additional expenses include a wide selection of epicurean, mindfulness and wellness excursions as well as cultural and historical bespoke tours. You can also book the ultimate underwater adventure on one of the line's high-tech submarines on the two expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Pursuit. Programs and treatments at Seabourn's Spa & Wellness are also at an additional cost.

Find a Seabourn Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages features "always included" cruise fares on its two purpose-built yachts, World Navigator and World Traveller. The line recently welcomed a third ship to its fleet for the 2023-24 Antarctica season, World Voyager. Atlas' high-end boutique ships cater to just 198 passengers and feature spacious staterooms and suites with panoramic windows or private balconies and beautiful public spaces and lounges. These small ships also have several options for dining, depending on the sailing and destination.

The all-inclusive fares cover complimentary dining; unlimited wines, craft beers and spirits; 24-hour bar service with canapes; a free in-room minibar; afternoon high tea; fresh-pressed juices and specialty teas and coffees; butler service; 24-hour room service; prepaid gratuities; cultural immersion in every port; and other perks.

Polar expedition fares cover private charter jet service, group transfers from the airport to the yacht, an Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest to take home, Zodiac sightseeing safaris, expert guided shore landings, and destination lectures and briefings.

If you're on one of the line's Epicurean Expeditions, the cultural immersion program offers complimentary special tastings, market visits and cooking demonstrations. In addition to use of the marina's water toys (on select sailings, weather permitting), guests can enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner and an alfresco Josper Grill dining experience at 7-AFT Grill. On select voyages, culinary presentations, wine tastings and other special events are hosted by an expert.

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More-Inclusive Cruises

Cruise fares with these lines include many of the amenities and perks that you'll find with the all-inclusive cruises. However, you'll still need to budget for some expenses, such as alcoholic beverages, excursions and specialty dining, depending on the line.

Viking's ocean fleet of nine 930-passenger all-veranda ships offers a nearly all-inclusive experience for guests. The upscale Scandinavian-inspired ships feature king-bed staterooms and suites with many amenities, including luxurious linens and plush robes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi – plus an in-room minibar with soft drinks, water and snacks. Higher-category staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises come with additional perks like priority dinner and spa reservations, early stateroom access, and a welcome bottle of Champagne.

Cruise fares also include complimentary dining at all the venues; one free shore excursion in every port; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; specialty teas, coffee and bottled water; access to the spa; lectures and performances; port taxes and fees; and more.

Viking also has two 378-passenger Polar Class 6 expedition vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. These ships also offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with the same amenities as their oceangoing vessels. Pricing on the expedition sailings includes Zodiac safaris, the use of kayaks, a keepsake Viking jacket, and essential gear for excursions and landings.

Select excursions, pre- or post-dinner cocktails, spa treatments, special bottles of wine, and other optional purchases come at an additional expense.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships carry a maximum of 702 guests and offer immersive experiences around the world, calling on many smaller, lesser-known ports. The line also boasts more than 380 overnights and 850 late nights in port, so guests can have dinner in town and experience more of the destination's local culture and cuisine.

Azamara's cruise fares include all meals (other than the specialty dining restaurants) with water, tea and coffee. A selection of complimentary wine, sparkling wine, beer and spirits is available throughout the voyage. Cultural evenings ashore or on board the ship and gratuities are also included in the basic cruise fare.

If you'd like to enhance your onboard experience, Azamara offers inclusive "Experience More" packages that are discounted and based on the length of the voyage.

For example, on a seven-day or shorter sailing, solo travelers can add a package for $799 that's valued at $1,114 (a savings of 28%). This value-add bundle includes $350 of onboard credit to use for shore excursions; unlimited Wi-Fi for one device; a drinks package featuring premium wines, spirits and bottled water; a $150 spa credit; and a dinner at the Chef's Table or a total of three nights of specialty dining at Prime C or Aqualina. Three bags of laundry are also included.

Guests can book similar packages for double occupancy staterooms and longer voyages. You can also choose individual beverage, dining or internet packages if you don't need the extra amenities or features of the bundled options.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' four superyacht-inspired ships are designed with adults in mind and feature 1,330 cabins (most with balconies) and 78 RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. Pricing with the adults-only cruise line includes stateroom or suite accommodations and meals at more than 20 eateries serving up international cuisine and dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs. Guests also have access to complimentary Wi-Fi; unlimited group exercise classes; nonalcoholic drinks such as water, tea and coffee; and plenty of lively entertainment.

Virgin does not offer beverage packages, but the line at times advertises special promotions that include voyage credits to cover expenses like airfare and drinks. Shore excursions and spa treatments – including skin care offerings on board Scarlet Lady in partnership with Jennifer Lopez, Virgin's chief entertainment and lifestyle officer – are some of the additional expenses not covered in the base fare.

Find a Virgin Voyages deal on GoToSea.

Add-on Packages and All-Inclusive Fares

These five cruise lines offer basic cruise fares that cover accommodations and some amenities – and you can typically find special pricing and promotional deals throughout the year.

With the optional packages, guests can create a mostly all-inclusive voyage with bundles of add-on extras, such as shore excursions, beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, gratuities or shipboard credit to cover miscellaneous personal expenses such as spa treatments or a bottle of wine for a special celebration.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania's eight small luxury ships carry between 648 and 1,238 guests. The line's newest ship – Vista , the first Allura Class vessel – debuted in Rome in May 2023. The beautifully appointed vessel features four new dining concepts, spacious standard staterooms at 290-plus square feet in size, new Concierge Level veranda accommodations for solo cruisers, an elevated mixology program and more.

Oceania's culinary program is touted by the line as "The Finest Cuisine at Sea" under the tutelage of Jacques Pépin, executive culinary director and master chef. Complimentary specialty dining is included in cruise fares on Oceania sailings. Pricing also covers airfare, still and sparkling water, specialty teas and coffees, soft drinks, and Wi-Fi on the ship.

Oceania's "OLife Choice" package provides additional value to your cruise with 2-for-1 cruise fares, free round-trip airfare and airport transfers – plus one free amenity you'll choose out of eight complimentary shore excursions, a beverage package or up to $800 in shipboard credit.

Explore Oceania Cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity offers special rates and packages throughout the year that save money over a la carte pricing – and elevate your onboard experience to be more inclusive. You'll be able to access the best deal on the added perks if you book the upgraded package before you sail, saving up to 40 to 50 percent of the actual cost.

The line's "All-Included" package bundles the most popular add-ons for cruisers: a standard beverage package for alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, unlimited basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities for the staff and crew. Pricing depends on the stateroom or suite category and sailing.

There are other options when booking a cruise with Celebrity to create a more upscale and all-inclusive experience. Guests staying in all-suite The Retreat have exclusive access to a sundeck (on select ships), a lounge and Luminae – a private restaurant that features Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud at the helm. Guests of The Retreat booking the "All-Included" package receive a premium beverage package, premium unlimited Wi-Fi, gratuities and an onboard credit.

If you book AquaClass accommodations, you'll also have access to complimentary amenities and perks, such as unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, discounts on spa treatment packages and complimentary fitness classes. In addition, you'll also find a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival (by request) and two bottles of water refreshed daily in your room. AquaClass guests also have exclusive access to the restaurant Blu. You can add the "All-Included" package to your booking, which will include the Classic Drinks Package, basic Wi-Fi and gratuities.

Passengers who want to book this "All-Included" package and are sharing a stateroom or suite will need to book the same package.

Compare Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian also offers promotional fares and special deals throughout the year that feature similar amenities and perks to what you'll find on an all-inclusive cruise. The "Free at Sea" deal bundles discounts on the cruise, free specialty dining, unlimited open bar privileges, shore excursion credits, savings on Wi-Fi access, discounts on the third and fourth guests in the stateroom, and a 2-for-1 deal on airfare.

"Free at Sea Plus" takes the package up a notch with a more comprehensive beverage selection, including top-shelf cocktails, Champagne by the glass, bottles of select premium wines at dinner and signature Starbucks coffee drinks. This option also includes unlimited Wi-Fi, additional nights of specialty dining and shore excursions.

Prices for both packages on Norwegian Cruise Line will depend on the dates, length and destination of the cruise.

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line's "Have It All Premium Cruise Package" is available to book for cruises six days or longer, excluding the line's Grand Voyages. The benefits vary depending on the length of the trip but include credits for shore excursions; the Signature Beverage Package; specialty dining at Tamarind, Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto; and a Wi-Fi Surf Package. The cost starts at $50 a day per person. 

An early booking bonus for this package includes an Elite Beverage Package upgrade, covered crew appreciation charges and a premium Wi-Fi upgrade. Holland America has other special promotions throughout the year. One of these is an early booking bonus of up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom for Mariner Society members.

Find Holland America deals on GoToSea.

Princess Cruises

"Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" packages offer guests two options to upgrade their onboard amenities from the standard Princess Cruises plan, which covers accommodations, dining, entertainment and the line's signature MedallionClass experience.

"Princess Plus" perks include a beverage package with drinks up to $15 each, Wi-Fi on one device per guest, gratuities for the crew, two premium desserts a day (think hazelnut gelato at the onboard gelateria), two fitness classes per cruise (such as Pure Barre or YogaSix) and unlimited trips to the juice bar. The cost is $60 per day per person for this middle-tier package.

Additional benefits of the highest-tier option, at $80 per person per day, include the Premier Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $20 each, and Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest. Other features of the "Princess Premier" upgrade are two specialty meals, a photo package, Princess Prizes, reserved theater seating and a Medallion accessory.

Explore Princess Cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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• Oceania Cruises

Room service gratuity

By malony33 , December 6, 2023 in Oceania Cruises

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I've cruised 15 times, but this will be the 1st time on Oceania. I will be sailing in a veranda stateroom. 

For all you Oceania veterans: what do you feel is the average tip for a server who delivers room service?

FYI, on previous cruises, I tipped a higher amount for dinner in the cabin vs a pot of tea and cookies at night.

It seems to me carrying a heavier platter with more dishes and food (plus any preparation of the meal for

which the server was responsible) = a higher amount when giving the gratuity.

So, fellow cruisers, share the tipping experience, please, relative to "room service". Thanks for your thoughts

and assistance.

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Sorry the format is such a mess!!

I don’t recall tipping anything. Last time I was on O I was in a penthouse, and tipped the butler (who delivers the room service) at the end of the cruise. Others will jump in if I’ve forgotten anything….

5 hours ago, PhD-iva said: I don’t recall tipping anything. Last time I was on O I was in a penthouse, and tipped the butler (who delivers the room service) at the end of the cruise. Others will jump in if I’ve forgotten anything….

Silly question...

Since "your" butler isn't on 24/7, what about when it isn't "your" butler delivering?

Just returned from a veranda stateroom on Nautica.  We had a continental breakfast of cereal and fruit + coffee delivered to our room each morning.  The attendant knocks, enters the room, places the tray on the table and leaves.  

I handed them 2-3 USD as they leave.  

Each seemed surprised to be tipped and appreciated it.

There are other butlers who cover while your butler is off duty. You don’t see them much at all. 

Tipping is one of those topics that get kicked around weekly on a cruise board.  Those that ask, generally want to feel good about the decision they will make.  With that as my focus, here are some thoughts. 

As @PhD-iva  said, when you have a butler, they or a member of the butler team will deliver your room service.  I like @PhD-iva  pay the gratuity to the butler in the pre-paid gratuity program and provide extra also in the form of another lump some. The extra is just that, extra. 

When the butler is not part of the equation, again, no additional amount is required.  However, if you would like to provide some additional, it is at your judgement.  A few dollars seems appropriate. 

Cruise well and enjoy every moment. 

On our 10 night Marina cruise in October, our Butler was always the one to deliver coffee in the morning, afternoon snacks, pre-dinner snacks, iced tea, lots of refills of ice, and everything else. never saw anyone else. We tipped him at the end of the cruise with a note.

11 hours ago, malony33 said: I've cruised 15 times, but this will be the 1st time on Oceania. I will be sailing in a veranda stateroom.    For all you Oceania veterans: what do you feel is the average tip for a server who delivers room service? FYI, on previous cruises, I tipped a higher amount for dinner in the cabin vs a pot of tea and cookies at night. It seems to me carrying a heavier platter with more dishes and food (plus any preparation of the meal for which the server was responsible) = a higher amount when giving the gratuity.   So, fellow cruisers, share the tipping experience, please, relative to "room service". Thanks for your thoughts and assistance.

Your on board account will be charged $18 pp/per day t cover tips.  As a result only tip for something which is "above and beyond" the norm.  Delivering breakfast or whatever is part of the room service steward's job.    We tip our steward/ess and Butler at the end of the cruise and often leave some additional money for the "Crew Fund" with Reception but that is all the tipping we do.

1 hour ago, Hambagahle said: Your on board account will be charged $18 pp/per day t cover tips. 

I've not felt the need to do anything more about tipping than just pay this. 

And, even there, I would be more than happy to see that incorporated into the fare so that nothing further was expected from the traveller. I understand that how O configures its pricing for the Australian market and I'd certainly welcome its expansion to other/all sectors. Maybe they could call it "Simply a bit More". 

2 hours ago, PhD-iva said: There are other butlers who cover while your butler is off duty. You don’t see them much at all. 

My point exactly.  My question was do you tip them on the spot since you won't see that butler at end of voyage?

Asking because we finally decided to try a cabin with a butler. 

(And, yes, thank you @Sthrngary for your suggestion of a hello letter for your butler)

9 minutes ago, Harters said: I've not felt the need to do anything more about tipping than just pay this.    And, even there, I would be more than happy to see that incorporated into the fare so that nothing further was expected from the traveller. I understand that how O configures its pricing for the Australian market and I'd certainly welcome its expansion to other/all sectors. Maybe they could call it "Simply a bit More". 

Reasonable attitude.

Our thought is that "gratuities" is simply disguised fare rather than being an actual gratuity since it goes to folks not performing personal service.

8 minutes ago, Snaefell3 said: Reasonable attitude.   Our thought is that "gratuities" is simply disguised fare rather than being an actual gratuity since it goes to folks not performing personal service.

I am glad that there are the crew gratuities which are shared with so many "behind the scenes" crew who perform personal service for me - laundry (my clean sheets, towels, dining linens, etc.), dishwashers (my clean dishes), public area maintenance, etc.

30 minutes ago, Snaefell3 said: My point exactly.  My question was do you tip them on the spot since you won't see that butler at end of voyage?   Asking because we finally decided to try a cabin with a butler. 

I don’t think it’s expected. I consider myself a generous tipper, and I don’t tip them anything. Many times I’m not in the room when they bring some thing, so I don’t even see them. I guess I don’t use the butler very much, besides breakfast and evening canapés.

It probably comes down to the fact that America has a "tipping culture" and Europe and Australia/NZ do not.   If - in our case - $23 is added to the bill per person and per day that is quite a large sum.  We tip (as I said) in addition to that to our butler and steward but not to others unless they do something exceptional.  We simply do not run around with money that we are handing out!  (On tours of course it is different.  We tip the guide if s/he has been good, more if great.  And the driver, maybe a few EUR or a dollar bill or whatever.  We only give coins if we are in the country of those coins otherwise they are worthless to the person receiving them.

And we do see our butler before we disembark.  He brings us breakfast - it is the one time we eat breakfast in the suite as a rule.  Have to get up early that day!!

Many thanks to you all; I appreciate that you shared your  "to tip or not to tip". I'll take every bit of advice I can get - this is a bucket cruise, so I want EVERYTHING to be good and right. 

On 12/6/2023 at 11:32 AM, Hambagahle said: It probably comes down to the fact that America has a "tipping culture" and Europe and Australia/NZ do not.   I

To help our international members understand American tipping a bit more.......Yes, America has always been a tipping culture, but now (post COVID) it has even increased.  Anyone who worked through the pandemic in hard-hit areas (like our's) was "handsomely" tipped because they kept food in our homes and the whole society running.  That mentality waned, but some post-covid increased tipping remains.

Now, 20% tip in restaurants (here in the New York City area) is the norm.  Used to be 15...but even receipts that show "tipping suggestions" now seem to start at 18% and go up to 22 or 25%.  Now, many credit card machines for simple transactions are programmed to ask "tip amount ?", and you have to affirmatively press "no tip".  

It has gotten a bit "out of hand" and there have been news reports about it.  One report claimed that employers are paying "customer facing" employees less and encouraging more tipping to cut labor costs.

I know when we travel we are out-of-step with many other countries on tipping amounts....but it just feels wrong to leave so little after good service.  This year we had trips to Germany and also to Spain.  I tried to be tip-restrained.....but it's hard for us.  

Is it hard for non-Americans when they travel to the USA to understand our tipping standards?  I'll bet it is. 

4 minutes ago, PelicanLvr said: Is it hard for non-Americans when they travel to the USA to understand our tipping standards? 

Not in the slightest. At least, not for any seasoned traveller. Folk like that will very probably have researched the tipping culture of whatever country they are visiting and act accordingly. 

You will, of course, come across tourists who continue tipping in accordance with their own culture, whatever that might be. Folk such as yourself.  And that will include Americans who visit a European country, without understanding its tipping culture and just continue to tip their usual 20%. Which is probably why American tourists are so widely welcomed in restaurants in my country. Especially the Americans who don't understand what a service charge is so, effectively, tip twice. 

On 12/6/2023 at 7:58 AM, PelicanLvr said: Just returned from a veranda stateroom on Nautica.  We had a continental breakfast of cereal and fruit + coffee delivered to our room each morning.  The attendant knocks, enters the room, places the tray on the table and leaves.     I handed them 2-3 USD as they leave.     Each seemed surprised to be tipped and appreciated it.

I have been doing that on every ship we sailed on since before the turn of the century 

1 hour ago, Harters said: Folk such as yourself

Pelican - apologies. That came out overly direct. I'd intended to write "Folk such as yourself who find it uncomfortable to do otherwise".

We see American tourists in Switzerland all the time who add 15-20% to a meal bill - but here the full service charge is already included in the restaurant price.  So they are tipping twice, and over-tipping at that.   In some countries (Japan I believe for one) it is considered rude to tip someone.  I really do think people from the US need to be a little more aware of local practices...

We faced two bad experiences in Miami.  1. We arrived at the airport. Had assistance . Arrived at baggage retrieval. Assistant called porter. Two cases, He walked 5O yds with the trolley. We are from UK. OH gave him $5 and he said “NO” it’s $10!

2. Stayed at the Intercontinental. Ate in the steak restaurant with 15% + taxes. A server, who hadn’t served us, came to our table and said “the hotel take the service charge can you leave an extra tip”

My ‘tip’ was ‘If they don’t pay you enough find another job’.

Very unimpressed.

Someone told me once years ago  ( a very frequent Oceania cruiser) that room service delivery is by crew who volunteer to do this on their off time.  We always a tip a couple dollars after hearing this— 

1 hour ago, BarbaraM said: room service delivery is by crew who volunteer to do this on their off time

Seems unlikely that O would rely on chance that someone volunteers their time for a required service to passengers. It would be no way to  run a professional operation. 

I’ve heard the room stewards each have to take a shift shoveling coal in the engines to help reduce costs. 🤡 🚢

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