TIPS on a Cruise Vacation
- sarahmc712
- Jun 24
- 2 min read
Some say, if you tip the crew, you’ll get better service. Some say, if you don’t, you’ll be left sitting high and dry. I say, there’s more to it than that!
T. I. P. S. “To Insure Prompt Service” – I have a couple of concerns with this long-held definition of tips and gratuities. First, we’re not insuring anything—we’re ensuring it. And second, we typically tip after a service is rendered, as a show of appreciation, not a promise. So let’s dive in!
Whom to tip? How much to tip? Should you tip in cash or let the cruise line handle it?
These are common questions—and if you have joined a cruise social media page or group, you know they come up again and again.
Here’s the simplest answer: tipping is ultimately based on your personal preferences—but understanding the system onboard helps you make an informed choice.
Most major cruise lines automatically apply daily gratuities (also called "service charges") to your shipboard account. This amount typically ranges between $16–$23 per person, per day, depending on your cabin type and cruise line. These gratuities go toward the hardworking crew who make your trip special—most notably, your main dining room attendants and your stateroom steward.
Pre-pay or pay onboard?
Guests have the option to pre-pay these gratuities before departure or let them be automatically charged daily to your shipboard account while sailing.
Do you prefer to tip in cash instead? You can request to have these automatic charges removed from your shipboard account and personally tip crew members. Keep in mind, however, that the automatic gratuities help ensure fair distribution among the crew—even those you may never see but who work just as hard behind the scenes.
Even with gratuities included, many guests choose to tip extra in cash as a personal thank-you for exceptional service. From bartenders who remember your name and favorite drink to the kids’ club counselor who made your child feel right at home—there are many unsung heroes aboard who aren’t covered by those daily service charges.
Crew members on cruise ships often work long contracts—up to 6–8 months away from home—working 10 to 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. And while cruise lines do provide housing and meals, the base wages are very modest. A few extra dollars can go a long way and are always appreciated.
TIPS for Tipping on Board
Cash is king. U.S. dollars are widely accepted onboard, even on international itineraries.
Bring a mix of small bills from home. ATMs on board or at port can have high fees.
Personal thank-you notes paired with a tip are a thoughtful gesture and always meaningful.
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