Are Gratuities Included on American Cruise Lines Explained

Gratuities are not automatically included on most American Cruise Lines voyages, meaning passengers are expected to tip crew members for exceptional service. Recommended gratuities typically range from $15–$20 per person, per day, and can be added to your onboard account or paid in cash at the end of the cruise. Always check your specific cruise’s policy, as some premium or inclusive packages may differ.

Key Takeaways

• Gratuities are often included: Check your cruise fare details for prepaid service charges.
• Review your invoice: Confirm gratuity inclusion before booking to avoid unexpected fees.
• Additional tipping is optional: Reward exceptional service beyond included gratuities if desired.
• Standard rates apply: Most lines charge $15–$20 per person daily for crew tips.
• Adjustments allowed: Contact guest services to modify gratuities pre-cruise or onboard.
• Suite guests get extras: Higher categories may include premium gratuities or concierge tips.

The Hidden Cost of Cruising: Are Gratuities Included on American Cruise Lines?

Imagine this: you’ve spent months researching the perfect American cruise, comparing itineraries, cabin options, and onboard amenities. You book with excitement, only to receive a final bill that includes a line item you didn’t anticipate – gratuities. Suddenly, your dream vacation feels a bit more expensive than expected. This scenario is all too common for first-time cruisers who assume that the advertised cruise fare covers everything, including tips for the crew. But when it comes to are gratuities included on American cruise lines, the answer is rarely straightforward.

Gratuities – also known as service charges or tips – are a significant part of the cruise experience, especially in the U.S. market. These fees compensate crew members who provide essential services throughout your journey, from stewards and waitstaff to entertainment teams and concierge staff. While some cruise lines have moved toward “all-inclusive” pricing models, many American cruise operators still handle gratuities separately, often adding them automatically to your onboard account or requiring you to pay them before disembarkation. Understanding how gratuities work on American cruise lines isn’t just about budgeting; it’s about respecting the hardworking staff who make your vacation memorable. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down how gratuities are handled across various American cruise lines, what’s included (and what’s not), and how you can plan ahead to avoid unpleasant surprises.

How American Cruise Lines Handle Gratuities: An Overview

The way gratuities are structured on American cruise lines varies significantly by company, ship, itinerary, and even cabin class. Unlike some European luxury lines that include gratuities in their base fare (e.g., Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn), most U.S.-based cruise operators adopt a “suggested” or “automatic” gratuity system. This means you’ll likely be charged a per-person, per-day fee unless you opt out or adjust it. But the devil is in the details – and those details can make a big difference in your final bill.

Automatic vs. Suggested Gratuities

Most American cruise lines now use automatic gratuities, meaning the fee is added to your onboard account each day of the cruise. For example, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) automatically charge $16–$20 per person, per day, depending on cabin category. This amount is typically broken down into:

• Housekeeping staff: $5–$7 per person/day
• Dining staff: $7–$10 per person/day
• Other service personnel (e.g., concierge, room service): $2–$3 per person/day

While these charges are automatic, they are not mandatory. You can adjust or remove them at the guest services desk, but be prepared for staff to explain the importance of these tips to crew livelihoods. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, refer to their system as “suggested” gratuities, which implies more flexibility, but in practice, they still expect payment.

Why Gratuities Are Separated from Base Fare

Cruise lines justify separating gratuities from the base fare for several reasons:

• Transparency: By listing gratuities as a line item, passengers see exactly what they’re paying for.
• Flexibility: Travelers can adjust amounts based on service quality or personal preference.
• Labor practices: Many crew members rely on tips as a major portion of their income, especially in countries with lower base wages.

However, critics argue that this practice creates “hidden” costs, especially when gratuities are automatically added without clear pre-booking disclosure. The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) requires cruise lines to disclose gratuity policies during booking, but the information is often buried in fine print or FAQs.

Exceptions: All-Inclusive Lines and Luxury Operators

Not all American cruise lines separate gratuities. Some high-end operators have adopted an inclusive model:

• Oceania Cruises: Gratuities are included in the base fare on most sailings.
• Regent Seven Seas: All gratuities, drinks, and shore excursions are included.
• American Queen Voyages: Gratuities, beer, and wine at lunch and dinner are included.

If you prefer a “no surprises” approach, these lines eliminate the guesswork – but expect higher upfront prices to compensate.

Gratuity Policies by Major American Cruise Lines

To help you plan your next cruise, here’s a detailed breakdown of gratuity policies for the most popular American cruise lines. These policies are subject to change, so always verify with your cruise line or travel agent before booking.

Carnival Cruise Line

• Standard gratuity: $16.00 per person/day (Interior/Standard cabins), $18.00 (Suites)
• Payment: Automatically added to onboard account; can be adjusted at guest services
• Special notes: Gratuities are waived for children under 2. For suite guests, the higher rate includes enhanced service expectations.
• Pre-payment option: Available during online check-in (recommended to avoid daily charges)

Tip: Pre-paying gratuities during check-in locks in the rate and avoids fluctuations if the cruise line raises prices mid-season.

Royal Caribbean International

• Standard gratuity: $16.00 per person/day (Standard cabins), $18.00 (Suites)
• Payment: Automatically charged daily; adjustable via guest services or app
• Special notes: On ships with “Dynamic Dining,” gratuities apply to all specialty restaurants. For suite guests, concierge services are covered under the higher rate.
• Pre-payment: Available during online check-in or via the Cruise Planner tool

Example: A family of four on a 7-day cruise in standard cabins would pay $448 in gratuities ($16 x 4 x 7).

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• Standard gratuity: $16.00 per person/day (Standard cabins), $18.00 (Suites)
• Payment: Automatically added; can be adjusted or removed at guest services
• Special notes: NCL’s “Free at Sea” packages may include gratuities as part of a bundle. Gratuities apply to all dining venues, including specialty restaurants.
• Pre-payment: Available during booking or check-in

Tip: If you book a “Free at Sea” package that includes gratuities, confirm whether the amount is fixed or based on the standard rate.

Princess Cruises

• Standard gratuity: $16.00 per person/day (Standard cabins), $18.00 (Suites)
• Payment: Automatically charged; adjustable via guest services
• Special notes: Princess markets its gratuities as “suggested,” but they’re effectively mandatory. The line offers a “Princess Luxury” package with included gratuities.
• Pre-payment: Available during online check-in

American Queen Voyages (River Cruises)

• Gratuities: Included in base fare on most itineraries
• Exceptions: Optional excursions and premium services may have separate tips
• Special notes: Beer, wine at lunch/dinner, and soft drinks are also included.

Why it’s different: American Queen’s inclusive model appeals to travelers who prefer predictable costs, especially on river cruises where service is highly personalized.

Holland America Line

• Standard gratuity: $16.00 per person/day (Standard cabins), $17.00 (Suites)
• Payment: Automatically added; adjustable at guest services
• Special notes: Gratuities for suite guests cover concierge and butler services. The line occasionally runs promotions with prepaid gratuities.

When Gratuities Are *Not* Included: Hidden Fees and Exceptions

Even on lines with “included” gratuities, there are often exceptions. Understanding these nuances can save you from unexpected charges.

Specialty Dining and Beverage Services

On most cruise lines, gratuities for specialty restaurants (e.g., steakhouses, Japanese teppanyaki) are separate from the standard daily rate. For example:

• A $50 dinner at a specialty restaurant might include a 15–20% automatic gratuity
• Bartenders and sommeliers often receive additional tips for premium drinks

Tip: If you plan to dine at specialty restaurants, budget an extra $10–$20 per person per meal for tips.

Spa, Excursions, and Onboard Retail

• Spa services: 15–20% gratuity is automatically added to massages, facials, and other treatments
• Shore excursions: While not mandatory, tipping guides and drivers (especially in non-U.S. ports) is customary. Budget $5–$10 per person per excursion
• Retail staff: Optional, but appreciated for personalized service

Group Bookings and Charters

For group cruises (e.g., weddings, corporate events), gratuities may be:

• Pre-negotiated as part of a package
• Waived for the organizer but still charged to individual guests
• Adjusted based on group size (e.g., 15+ guests may receive a discount)

Example: A family reunion with 20 guests might receive a 10% gratuity reduction, but confirm this in writing with the cruise line.

Children and Infants

Most lines waive gratuities for children under 2. For children aged 3–12, the rate is typically 50–75% of the adult fee. Always check the policy – some lines (like Carnival) apply the full rate to all passengers over 2.

Pre-Paid Gratuity Promotions

Cruise lines frequently offer “pre-paid gratuities” as part of booking promotions. While this locks in the rate, beware of:

• Non-refundable policies: If you cancel, you may lose the pre-paid amount
• Rate changes: If the cruise line raises gratuity fees after your pre-payment, you’re protected – but if they lower them, you won’t benefit

How to Budget for Gratuities: A Practical Guide

Gratuities can add hundreds of dollars to your cruise cost. Here’s how to plan for them without breaking the bank.

Calculate Your Total Gratuity Cost

Use this formula:

Total Gratuities = (Daily Rate x Number of Days x Number of Passengers) + Specialty Service Tips

• Example: A couple on a 10-day Carnival cruise in a suite: ($18 x 10 x 2) = $360. Add $100 for specialty dining and spa = $460 total
• Pro tip: Use cruise line apps (e.g., Carnival Hub, Royal Caribbean App) to track gratuity charges in real time

Pre-Pay During Check-In

Pre-paying gratuities during online check-in offers several advantages:

• Locks in current rates (no risk of mid-cruise increases)
• Reduces onboard account clutter
• May qualify for promotions (e.g., “Free at Sea” bundles)

Note: Pre-paid gratuities are typically non-refundable, so only pay if you’re certain about your cruise plans.

Adjust Gratuities Based on Service

While automatic gratuities are the norm, you can:

• Increase the amount for exceptional service (e.g., a butler who goes above and beyond)
• Decrease for poor service (e.g., a waiter who ignores your requests)
• Remove entirely (rare, but possible – expect staff to explain why this is discouraged)

Tip: If adjusting gratuities, do so early in the cruise to avoid confusion. Provide specific feedback to help staff improve.

Alternative Tipping Methods

Some passengers prefer to tip in cash for personalized service:

• Housekeeping: $2–$5 per day, left in an envelope
• Waitstaff: $1–$2 per meal, handed directly
• Concierge: $10–$20 for special assistance (e.g., booking excursions)

Why cash? It ensures the tip goes directly to the staff member, bypassing the cruise line’s distribution system.

Gratuities for Multi-Day Shore Excursions

For extended tours (e.g., 2–3 day excursions), budget $15–$25 per person per day for guides and drivers. This is separate from onboard gratuities.

Gratuities vs. Service Charges: What’s the Difference?

You’ve likely seen both terms on your cruise bill – but they’re not the same. Understanding the distinction helps you avoid double-paying.

Gratuities (Tips)

Gratuities are payments to individual crew members for direct service. They are:

• Discretionary: You can adjust or remove them
• Distributed to staff: Typically pooled and shared among relevant crew
• Based on service quality: Higher tips reward excellent performance

Service Charges (Fees)

Service charges are mandatory fees added to specific services. They are:

• Non-negotiable: Cannot be removed
• Not always distributed to staff: Some lines use them for operational costs (e.g., spa equipment maintenance)
• Applied to premium services: E.g., 15% on specialty dining, 18% on spa treatments

Data Table: Gratuities vs. Service Charges

Feature	Gratuities	Service Charges
Payment Type	Per person, per day (automatic or suggested)	Percentage of service cost (e.g., 15% on $100 spa treatment)
Adjustable?	Yes (via guest services)	No (mandatory)
Distribution	Pooled among crew	May go to line or staff
Common Examples	Daily housekeeping, dining staff	Spa, specialty dining, excursions
Pre-Payment Option	Yes (during check-in)	Rarely

Why the Confusion?

Cruise lines often use “gratuities” and “service charges” interchangeably in marketing, but the financial implications differ. For example, a 15% service charge on a $500 spa package ($75) is mandatory, while daily gratuities can be reduced. Always read the fine print.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead, Cruise Confidently

So, are gratuities included on American cruise lines? The answer is a resounding “it depends.” While luxury and river cruise lines often bundle tips into their base fare, most mainstream American operators – including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and NCL – use automatic or suggested gratuities that add $16–$20 per person, per day to your bill. These fees compensate the hardworking crew who keep your cruise running smoothly, from stewards to chefs to entertainers.

The key to a stress-free cruise is planning ahead. Calculate your total gratuity cost using the daily rate and itinerary length, pre-pay during check-in if possible, and budget extra for specialty services. Remember: gratuities are not just a fee – they’re a way to show appreciation for the staff who make your vacation special. Whether you choose to tip automatically, in cash, or a mix of both, your generosity is noticed and deeply appreciated.

Finally, don’t let gratuities catch you off guard. Read your cruise line’s policy during booking, ask questions, and use this guide to navigate the nuances. With the right preparation, you’ll enjoy your American cruise without any unpleasant surprises – and with the satisfaction of knowing you’ve supported the crew who helped create your unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gratuities included on American Cruise Lines?

Gratuities are not automatically included in the base fare for most American Cruise Lines voyages, but they may be added as a prepaid package or recommended onboard. It’s best to check your specific cruise details or consult your booking confirmation.

How much should I tip on an American Cruise Line?

American Cruise Lines typically recommends $15–$20 per passenger, per day for gratuities, covering crew and service staff. This amount can vary slightly depending on the ship and itinerary, so confirm with the cruise line before departure.

Can I prepay gratuities for American Cruise Lines?

Yes, many American Cruise Lines sailings allow you to prepay gratuities as part of your booking or up to a few days before departure. Prepaying ensures tips are distributed fairly and avoids the hassle of calculating them onboard.

Do I have to tip if gratuities aren’t included on American Cruise Lines?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a standard practice to show appreciation for service, especially since gratuities aren’t always included on American Cruise Lines. Most passengers follow the recommended daily tip amount to support the crew.

Are gratuities included on American Cruise Lines luxury voyages?

Some premium or all-inclusive American Cruise Lines itineraries may include gratuities in the fare—always review your cruise details carefully. When unsure, contact customer service to confirm whether gratuities are covered or separate.

What happens if I don’t pay gratuities on an American Cruise Line?

If gratuities aren’t prepaid, you’ll likely be charged a daily recommended rate onboard or asked to settle tips at the end of the cruise. Failing to pay may result in a hold on your account or inconvenience during disembarkation.