🤔What are cruise gratuities?
Gratuities (also called service charges) are fees that recognize the hard work of your onboard crew, including cabin stewards, dining room staff, and other service team members who make your cruise experience exceptional.
💳Are gratuities included in the cost of my cruise?
Most cruise lines do not automatically include gratuities in the total cost of your cruise fare. Instead, gratuities for services such as dining staff, cabin attendants, and other onboard personnel are typically added to your onboard account during your cruise.
However, policies regarding gratuities can vary depending on the cruise line and the type of cruise you have booked. Some cruise lines may offer all-inclusive packages that incorporate gratuities, while others might allow you to pre-pay gratuities at the time of booking for added convenience.
💷How much are gratuities?
Gratuity amounts vary by cruise line and are typically charged per person, per day. The exact amount depends on:
- Your cruise supplier
- Your cabin category (suite guests may pay higher rates)
- The length of your cruise
Typical daily gratuity rates range from £10-£18 per person, but we recommend checking with your specific cruise line for their current rates.
💳When and how do I pay gratuities?
Standard payment method: Generally, gratuities will be charged to your onboard account during the cruise and will need to be settled when you finalize your bill on the last day. These charges are automatically added to the credit or debit card you registered during online check-in.
Pre-paying gratuities: Most cruise lines offer the option to pre-pay gratuities in advance through their website when you manage your booking. Benefits of pre-paying include:
- Locking in current rates (gratuities can increase)
- Better budgeting - one less charge to think about onboard
- Spreading the cost if you're on a payment plan
- Peace of mind knowing it's already taken care of
How can I pre-pay gratuities?
To pre-pay your gratuities:
- Log into your account on your cruise supplier's website
- Look for "Manage My Cruise" or "My Booking"
- Select the option to pre-pay gratuities
- Complete the payment through their secure system
⚠️ Important: Pre-paid gratuities cover the standard daily service charge added to your cruise account, but they do not include any additional service fees for one-time purchases made during your cruise, such as drinks, specialty dining, or spa treatments.
Can I adjust gratuities?
While gratuities are automatically added by most cruise lines, you typically have the option to adjust them by visiting Guest Services onboard. However, these charges directly support the crew members who serve you throughout your cruise.
❓Need more information?
For specific gratuity rates and policies:
- Log into your cruise supplier's website
Check your cruise line's FAQ section