Tipping policies on cruise ships can vary depending on the cruise line, but here are some common practices and guidelines regarding tipping:
1. **Automatic Gratuities:** Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities, also known as service charges or gratuity charges, to passengers' onboard accounts. These gratuities typically cover tips for the cabin steward, dining room staff, and other service personnel. The amount charged per day per passenger varies by cruise line and may range from around $10 to $20 per person per day.
2. **Prepaid Gratuities:** Some cruise lines offer the option for passengers to prepay their gratuities before the cruise begins. This allows passengers to budget for gratuities in advance and avoid having to pay them onboard.
3. **Discretionary Gratuities:** In addition to automatic gratuities, passengers may choose to give additional tips or gratuities to individual crew members who provide exceptional service. This could include extra tips for waitstaff, bartenders, room service attendants, spa personnel, or tour guides.
4. **Gratuity Adjustment:** Most cruise lines allow passengers to adjust or remove automatic gratuities from their onboard accounts if they wish. However, it's important to note that gratuities are an important source of income for cruise ship crew members, so removing or adjusting gratuities should be done thoughtfully and only in cases of poor service.
5. **Cash Tips:** While many cruise lines prefer gratuities to be charged to passengers' onboard accounts, some passengers may choose to give cash tips directly to individual crew members as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service. Cash tips are usually given in person and can be given at any time during the cruise.
It's important for passengers to familiarize themselves with the tipping policies of the specific cruise line they are sailing with and to budget accordingly for gratuities. While tipping practices may vary, the goal is to ensure that crew members are fairly compensated for their hard work and dedication in providing passengers with an enjoyable cruise experience.