Do Cruise Lines Still Give Tip Envelopes in 2024

Most cruise lines no longer provide physical tip envelopes in 2024, shifting instead to automated gratuity systems charged directly to passengers’ onboard accounts. While a few luxury or traditional lines may still offer envelopes for personalized tipping, the majority now include suggested gratuities in final bills, streamlining the process and ensuring crew receive consistent compensation. Always check your cruise line’s current policy before sailing to avoid confusion—and consider carrying cash if you prefer to tip individually.

Key Takeaways

• Most cruise lines no longer provide physical tip envelopes. Digital tipping is now standard.
• Check your cruise line’s policy before packing envelopes. Some still offer them upon request.
• Pre-paid gratuities are common and often mandatory. Review your booking details carefully.
• Use onboard apps or kiosks to adjust tips easily. Cash is rarely required or expected.
• Service staff rely on gratuities—always budget for them. Even without envelopes, tipping remains essential.

Do Cruise Lines Still Give Tip Envelopes in 2024?

When boarding a cruise ship, many travelers still wonder: Do cruise lines still give tip envelopes in 2024? The short answer is: not as commonly as they once did. The cruise industry has undergone a significant shift in how gratuities are handled, moving from the traditional practice of distributing physical tip envelopes to automated, pre-paid, or digitally managed tipping systems. While the concept of tipping remains deeply embedded in cruise culture—especially for service staff like cabin stewards, waiters, and bartenders—the method of delivery has evolved to meet modern expectations for convenience, transparency, and efficiency.

For decades, tip envelopes were a staple of cruise vacations. Passengers would receive a packet at the beginning of the cruise with pre-labeled envelopes for different crew members, along with a suggested gratuity amount. The process was straightforward: fill the envelope with cash, hand it to the recipient at the end of the trip, and feel good about rewarding hardworking staff. But in recent years, the rise of digital payments, changing guest preferences, and the global pandemic have accelerated the decline of paper envelopes. Today, most major cruise lines have adopted automated gratuity systems or mandatory service charges, reducing the need for physical envelopes. However, the question remains relevant for travelers seeking clarity, control, and personal connection when it comes to tipping. This article explores the current state of tipping on cruise lines, the reasons behind the shift, and what cruisers need to know in 2024.

The Evolution of Tipping on Cruise Ships

From Envelopes to Automation: A Historical Perspective

Tipping on cruise ships dates back to the golden age of ocean liners, when passengers were expected to reward crew members for exceptional service. In the 1980s and 1990s, cruise lines began formalizing the process by distributing tip envelopes at the start of each voyage. These envelopes typically included separate compartments for the cabin steward, head waiter, assistant waiter, and sometimes even the maitre d’ or bar staff. Passengers were encouraged to tip in cash, usually in the local currency of the ship’s registry (e.g., U.S. dollars on most American-flagged lines).

The envelope system was designed to be simple and transparent. It allowed guests to control the amount they tipped and to personalize their gratuities. For example, a family might give $20 to a cabin steward who went above and beyond, while giving $10 to a waiter who was merely adequate. This system also fostered a personal connection—passengers often handed envelopes directly to crew members, sometimes with a thank-you note, creating a moment of human interaction.

However, as cruise ships grew larger and more complex, the envelope system began to show its limitations. With thousands of passengers and hundreds of crew members, managing cash tips became logistically challenging. There were concerns about theft, loss, or even pressure on guests to tip more than they could afford. Moreover, the rise of credit cards and digital payments made cash transactions seem outdated. By the early 2000s, cruise lines started experimenting with pre-paid gratuities and automated service charges, laying the groundwork for the systems we see today.

The Role of the Pandemic in Accelerating Change

The global pandemic of 2020–2022 acted as a catalyst for the decline of tip envelopes. With health and safety concerns paramount, cruise lines sought to minimize physical contact, including the handling of cash and paper. Many lines suspended the distribution of envelopes altogether, opting instead for digital tipping or pre-paid gratuities added to guests’ onboard accounts.

For example, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) temporarily paused envelope distribution during their post-pandemic relaunches. Instead, they encouraged guests to use the cruise line’s mobile app to add extra tips or adjust existing gratuities. This not only reduced physical contact but also provided better tracking and reporting for the crew. The success of these digital systems during the pandemic convinced many lines that the future of tipping was electronic—not paper-based.

Additionally, the pandemic highlighted the financial vulnerability of cruise staff, many of whom rely heavily on tips for a living wage. Automated gratuities ensured that crew members received consistent income, even when ships operated at reduced capacity or with fewer passengers. This shift toward guaranteed compensation has made tip envelopes seem less necessary—and in some cases, even unfair to crew who might otherwise go uncompensated if guests chose not to tip.

Current Tipping Policies Across Major Cruise Lines

Automated Gratuities: The New Standard

As of 2024, the vast majority of major cruise lines have adopted automated gratuity systems. These are often referred to as “service charges” or “daily gratuities” and are automatically added to a guest’s onboard account. The charges are calculated per person, per day, and vary depending on the cabin category (e.g., interior vs. suite).

For example:

• Royal Caribbean: $16.00 per person, per day for standard staterooms; $18.50 for suites.
• Carnival Cruise Line: $14.50 per person, per day; $15.50 for suites.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): $15.50 per person, per day; $18.50 for suites.
• Princess Cruises: $14.50 per person, per day; $16.00 for suites.
• Holland America Line: $15.50 per person, per day; $17.00 for suites.

These charges are typically added daily and appear on the final bill at the end of the cruise. Guests can adjust or remove the charges before the final bill is settled, though cruise lines strongly encourage keeping them in place. The funds are distributed to a pool of service staff, including dining room teams, housekeeping, and bar staff, ensuring fair compensation across departments.

Exceptions and Optional Tipping

While automated gratuities are standard, some cruise lines still allow for optional tipping or offer alternatives to the standard system:

• MSC Cruises: Offers an “optional” service charge, but it’s still automatically added. Guests can adjust it via the MSC for Me app or at the guest services desk.
• Celebrity Cruises: Uses a similar automated system but allows guests to “opt out” of the charge—though this is rarely recommended, as it directly impacts crew wages.
• Disney Cruise Line: Includes gratuities in the cruise fare for certain services, but also offers tip envelopes for specialty dining, spa, and concierge staff. These envelopes are distributed upon request or at specific venues.
• Smaller or Luxury Lines (e.g., Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn): Often include gratuities in the base fare, making tipping entirely optional. However, staff still appreciate cash tips for exceptional service.

It’s worth noting that even on lines with mandatory gratuities, guests are still encouraged to tip extra for exceptional service—especially in bars, spas, or specialty restaurants. In these cases, cash tips are preferred, and many guests still bring envelopes or small cash bundles for this purpose.

Do Any Lines Still Use Tip Envelopes?

Yes—but only in specific circumstances. A few cruise lines still distribute tip envelopes, particularly:

• For specialty services (e.g., spa treatments, private dining, butler service).
• On river cruises (e.g., Viking River Cruises), where the crew-to-guest ratio is higher, and personal service is emphasized. Viking provides envelopes at the end of the cruise for guests who wish to tip in cash.
• On expedition or luxury lines (e.g., Lindblad Expeditions, Ponant), where tipping is optional and envelopes are provided for those who prefer a traditional approach.
• For onshore excursions or local guides, where cruise lines may provide envelopes to distribute tips collectively.

Even on mainstream lines, tip envelopes are sometimes available upon request. For example, Carnival and Royal Caribbean may provide envelopes if a guest asks at guest services, especially if they want to tip a specific crew member in cash.

Why Cruise Lines Are Moving Away from Tip Envelopes

Convenience and Efficiency

One of the primary reasons cruise lines are phasing out tip envelopes is convenience. Automated gratuities eliminate the need for guests to carry cash, worry about exchange rates, or decide how much to tip each day. Everything is handled seamlessly through the onboard account, which is charged to a credit card or settled at the end of the cruise.

For cruise lines, this system reduces administrative overhead. There’s no need to print, distribute, or collect envelopes. There’s also less risk of lost or stolen cash. And because the charges are predictable, cruise lines can better forecast crew compensation and budget accordingly.

Fairer Compensation for Crew

Tip envelopes were inherently unpredictable. Some guests tipped generously; others didn’t tip at all. This created significant income disparities among crew members. A cabin steward who received $500 in tips on one cruise might get $50 on the next—through no fault of their own.

Automated gratuities ensure that all crew members receive a consistent base income from tips. This is especially important for staff in less visible roles (e.g., galley workers, laundry staff) who might otherwise receive little or no gratuities. By pooling and distributing the service charges fairly, cruise lines promote equity and reduce financial stress among their teams.

Guest Experience and Transparency

Modern travelers value transparency and control. Automated gratuities provide both. Guests can see exactly how much they’re being charged, who the money is going to, and can adjust the amount if needed. Many cruise lines now provide detailed breakdowns of gratuity distribution, showing how funds are allocated across departments.

Additionally, digital tipping options (e.g., via mobile app) allow guests to add extra tips at any time, for any crew member, with just a few taps. This flexibility is far more convenient than stuffing envelopes at the end of the cruise.

Environmental and Operational Benefits

The shift away from paper envelopes also has environmental benefits. Cruise ships generate massive amounts of waste, and reducing paper use—even by something as small as tip envelopes—can make a difference. Fewer envelopes mean less printing, less storage, and less waste disposal.

Operationally, it streamlines the guest experience. Crew don’t have to collect or count envelopes, and there’s no need for a “tip distribution day” at the end of the cruise. This frees up staff time for more meaningful guest interactions.

Tips for Cruisers in 2024: How to Handle Gratuities

Understand Your Cruise Line’s Policy

Before you board, research your cruise line’s tipping policy. Check the website or call guest services to confirm:

• Are gratuities included in the fare?
• Is there a daily service charge? How much?
• Can you adjust or remove the charge?
• Are tip envelopes available for specialty services?

For example, if you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean, you’ll want to know that the $16 daily charge is standard and can be adjusted via the app. If you’re on a Viking River Cruise, you’ll know that envelopes are provided for end-of-cruise tipping.

Bring Cash for Extra Tips

Even with automated gratuities, it’s a good idea to bring cash for extra tips. Bring small bills (e.g., $1, $5, $10, $20) in the local currency of the ship. U.S. dollars are widely accepted on most cruise lines, even outside the U.S.

Use cash for:

• Bar staff who make great cocktails
• Spa therapists who provide excellent massages
• Specialty restaurant waiters
• Crew members who go above and beyond (e.g., a cabin steward who decorates your room for a birthday)

You can use envelopes (available at guest services or bring your own) to personalize these tips. A handwritten note with a $20 bill can make a crew member’s day.

Use Digital Tools to Your Advantage

Most major cruise lines now offer mobile apps that allow you to:

• Adjust your daily gratuities
• Send extra tips to specific crew members
• View your onboard account in real time

For example, the Norwegian Cruise Line app lets you add a $10 tip to your favorite bartender with just a few clicks. This is faster, safer, and more convenient than handing over cash.

Consider Pre-Paying Gratuities

Many cruise lines offer the option to pre-pay gratuities at the time of booking or during final payment. This can save you from having to settle a large gratuity bill at the end of the cruise. It also locks in the rate, protecting you from potential increases.

Pre-paying is especially useful if you’re on a budget or want to avoid surprise charges. Just make sure you understand the policy—some lines allow adjustments, while others do not.

Comparative Data: Cruise Line Tipping Policies in 2024

Cruise Line	Daily Gratuity (Standard Cabin)	Daily Gratuity (Suite)	Tip Envelopes?	Pre-Pay Option?	Digital Tipping?
Royal Caribbean	$16.00	$18.50	Upon request	Yes	Yes (via app)
Carnival	$14.50	$15.50	Upon request	Yes	Yes (via app)
Norwegian	$15.50	$18.50	Upon request	Yes	Yes (via app)
Princess	$14.50	$16.00	No	Yes	Yes
Disney	Included in fare (partial)	Included in fare (partial)	Yes (specialty services)	No	Yes
Viking River	N/A (optional)	N/A	Yes (end of cruise)	No	No
Silversea	Included in fare	Included in fare	Optional	No	Yes

Conclusion: The Future of Tipping on Cruise Ships

So, do cruise lines still give tip envelopes in 2024? The answer is nuanced: most major lines no longer distribute them as a standard practice, but they’re still available in specific situations—and for guests who prefer the traditional method. The cruise industry has largely moved toward automated, transparent, and equitable gratuity systems that benefit both guests and crew.

For travelers, this shift means greater convenience, fewer surprises, and more control over their tipping experience. Whether you choose to rely on automated charges, use digital tools, or bring cash for personalized tips, the key is to understand your cruise line’s policy and plan ahead. Tipping remains an important part of the cruise experience—not just as a financial gesture, but as a way to show appreciation for the hardworking staff who make your vacation memorable.

As cruise lines continue to innovate, we may see even more digital integration—such as AI-powered tipping suggestions, blockchain-based gratuity tracking, or real-time feedback systems. But one thing will likely remain: the human connection between guest and crew. Whether through a $20 bill in an envelope or a digital tip on an app, that moment of gratitude is what truly defines the cruise experience. In 2024 and beyond, tipping isn’t just about money—it’s about respect, recognition, and shared humanity at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cruise lines still give tip envelopes in 2024?

Most major cruise lines have phased out physical tip envelopes in favor of automated gratuity systems. However, some luxury or smaller cruise lines may still provide them upon request for passengers who prefer cash tipping.

Why did cruise lines stop giving tip envelopes?

Cruise lines eliminated tip envelopes to streamline service and ensure consistent gratuities for crew members. The shift to pre-paid or automatically added gratuities also reduces cash handling and improves fairness across departments.

How do I know if my cruise line uses tip envelopes or automatic gratuities?

Check your cruise line’s website or pre-cruise documents for their gratuity policy—most now default to automatic charges. If you’re unsure, contact customer service; some lines (like Regent or Silversea) may still offer tip envelopes as an option.

Can I still tip with cash instead of automatic gratuities on cruises?

Yes, you can often opt out of automatic gratuities and use cash, though cruise lines may require written notice. Tip envelopes aren’t always provided, but you can request them at guest services or bring your own for cash tips.

Which cruise lines still give tip envelopes in 2024?

Luxury lines like Seabourn, Oceania, and certain river cruises are more likely to offer tip envelopes. Mainstream lines like Carnival or Royal Caribbean no longer include them but may accommodate special requests.

What happens if I don’t pay automatic gratuities on a cruise?

If you skip automatic gratuities, crew members may miss out on standard tips, as staff rely on these payments. To tip fairly, either pre-pay gratuities or use cash (with or without envelopes) to ensure your tips reach the crew.