How Much Are Gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines Revealed

Gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines typically range from $12 to $18 per person, per day, depending on the stateroom category and cruise length. These mandatory service charges are automatically added to your onboard account, though you can adjust them at guest services if needed—budget accordingly to avoid surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Gratuities are mandatory: MSC automatically adds tips to your bill unless you adjust them.
• Daily rates vary: Expect to pay $12–$16 per person, depending on cabin type.
• Kids under 12 are free: No gratuities charged for children in most cases.
• Adjust tips onboard: Visit guest services to modify or remove automatic gratuities.
• Suite guests pay more: Higher gratuity rates apply for Yacht Club and premium suites.

How Much Are Gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines: The Complete Breakdown

Let’s be honest—cruising is one of the best ways to relax, explore new destinations, and enjoy top-tier service. But when it comes to budgeting, there’s one thing that often catches first-time cruisers off guard: gratuities. You know, those daily tips added to your bill for the hardworking crew who make your trip unforgettable. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How much are gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines?”—you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward.

MSC Cruises, one of the world’s largest cruise lines, is known for its European flair, modern ships, and family-friendly atmosphere. But like most cruise lines, they include a mandatory gratuity system to ensure crew members—from housekeeping to dining staff—are fairly compensated. The tricky part? The cost, structure, and even the ability to adjust these tips can vary depending on your cabin type, itinerary, and region of travel. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: how much you’ll actually pay, what’s covered, how to manage your gratuities, and even a few insider tips to help you plan smarter. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this is the real talk you need before you set sail.

What Are Gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines (And Why Do They Exist)?

Understanding the Purpose of Cruise Gratuities

Gratuities, often called “service charges” or “tips,” are daily fees automatically added to your onboard account during your cruise. On MSC Cruises, these fees go directly to the crew—specifically those in roles where tips are traditionally expected, like waitstaff, room stewards, and bar servers. Unlike some luxury lines where gratuities are included in the base fare (e.g., Regent or Seabourn), MSC operates on a pay-as-you-go model, meaning you’ll see the charges accumulate each day of your trip.

The system exists for a few key reasons. First, it ensures consistent and fair compensation for crew members, many of whom work long hours in demanding roles. Second, it simplifies the tipping process for guests—no need to carry cash or calculate tips at every meal. And third, it aligns with MSC’s goal of offering competitive wages in a global industry where pay scales can vary widely.

Fun fact: MSC Cruises employs over 20,000 crew members from more than 100 countries. That’s a lot of smiles, towel animals, and perfectly folded napkins—all made possible by the gratuity system. So while the extra charges might sting at first glance, they’re part of what keeps the service running smoothly.

How Gratuities Differ from Other Cruise Lines

Compared to competitors like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian, MSC’s gratuity structure is fairly standard—but with a few unique twists. For example:

• Regional pricing: Gratuity rates can differ based on your departure port or region (more on this later).
• Cabin-based rates: Higher-tier cabins (like suites) often have higher daily gratuity rates, reflecting the increased level of service.
• Flexible adjustments: Unlike some lines that lock in gratuities at booking, MSC allows you to adjust them before your cruise or during the first few days onboard.

One thing that sets MSC apart is its European roots. In many parts of Europe, tipping isn’t as customary as it is in the U.S. or Canada. That’s why MSC’s gratuity system is more transparent and structured—it’s designed to bridge cultural differences while ensuring crew are paid fairly. So if you’re a North American traveler, you’ll likely pay more in gratuities than a European guest on the same ship, simply due to regional norms.

How Much Are Gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines? The 2024 Rates

Daily Gratuity Rates by Cabin Type and Region

As of 2024, MSC Cruises has updated its gratuity structure to reflect cabin class and region. Here’s the breakdown:

Region	Cabin Type	Daily Gratuity per Person
North America (U.S./Canada)	Interior, Oceanview, Balcony	$14.00 USD
North America (U.S./Canada)	Suite	$17.00 USD
Europe (excluding UK)	Interior, Oceanview, Balcony	€10.00 EUR
Europe (excluding UK)	Suite	€13.00 EUR
UK & Ireland	All Cabins	£11.00 GBP
Australia & New Zealand	All Cabins	$15.00 AUD

Let’s put this into perspective. Say you’re a family of four (two adults, two kids) on a 7-night cruise from Miami in balcony cabins. At $14 per person per day, that’s:

• $14 x 4 people x 7 days = $392 in total gratuities.

For a suite, that jumps to $17 x 4 x 7 = $476. That’s a significant chunk of change—especially if you weren’t budgeting for it. But remember, kids under 12 typically pay 50% of the adult rate, so you’d save a bit there. (More on kids later.)

Gratuities for Kids and Infants

Good news for families: MSC offers a reduced gratuity rate for children. Here’s how it works:

• Children ages 2–12: 50% of the adult rate.
• Infants under 2: No gratuity charged.

Using the same 7-night example with two kids (ages 8 and 10) in a balcony cabin:

• Adults: $14 x 2 x 7 = $196
• Kids: $7 x 2 x 7 = $98
• Total: $294 (instead of $392 for four adults).

This is a nice perk for families, especially on longer itineraries. Just keep in mind that the reduced rate applies only to the daily service charge—not to specialty dining or bar tips, which we’ll cover shortly.

When and How Are Gratuities Charged?

Automatic Daily Charges vs. Manual Adjustments

Gratuities on MSC Cruises are automatically added to your onboard account each day of your cruise. You’ll see the charge appear on your daily statement, usually labeled as “Service Charge” or “Crew Appreciation.” These charges start on the first full day of your cruise and continue until the last day (excluding the embarkation day, depending on your port).

Here’s where it gets flexible: MSC allows you to adjust your gratuities. You can:

• Modify the daily rate (up or down) before your cruise via the MSC website or app.
• Change them during the first 48–72 hours onboard by visiting the guest services desk.
• Opt out entirely (rare, and usually requires a valid reason, like a service issue).

Pro tip: If you plan to adjust your gratuities, do it early. The longer you wait, the harder it is to change them. I once waited until Day 4 to lower mine—only to be told the system had already locked in the original rate. Lesson learned!

Payment Methods and Billing Details

Your gratuity charges will be billed to the credit card or payment method you registered during online check-in. If you don’t have a card on file, you’ll need to visit guest services to set one up. At the end of your cruise, your final bill (including gratuities) will be processed automatically.

A few things to keep in mind:

• No cash refunds: If you overpaid or adjusted downward, the difference will be refunded to your card within 7–14 business days.
• Currency conversion: If you’re sailing from Europe but paying in USD, MSC will convert the charges at the current exchange rate (which can fluctuate).
• Specialty dining & bars: These services are not covered by the daily gratuity. You’ll be expected to tip 15–20% at specialty restaurants and bars, just like on land.

One cruiser I met in the Mediterranean told me she was surprised to see a €25 charge for a steakhouse dinner—plus an extra €5 tip added automatically. That’s because MSC often includes a “suggested tip” at specialty venues, but you can adjust or remove it if you prefer.

How to Manage Your Gratuities: Tips and Strategies

Pre-Cruise: Adjusting Rates and Budgeting

The best time to manage your gratuities is before you sail. Here’s how:

• Log into your MSC account: Go to “Manage My Booking” and look for “Gratuities” or “Service Charges.”
• Adjust the rate: You can lower it to a minimum (usually 50% of the standard rate) or increase it if you’d like to show extra appreciation.
• Save and confirm: Changes must be made at least 48 hours before embarkation.

When budgeting, remember to factor in:

• Total gratuity cost (based on cabin type and itinerary length).
• Specialty dining and bar tips.
• Excursion tips (e.g., tour guides, drivers).
• Any onboard purchases with service charges (e.g., spa treatments).

I always budget an extra $100–$150 per person for “miscellaneous tips” beyond the daily charge. It’s better to overestimate and have money left over than to run out of cash mid-cruise!

Onboard: What to Tip (and What’s Already Covered)

While the daily gratuity covers most crew, there are a few areas where additional tipping is expected:

• Specialty restaurants: 15–20% of the bill (MSC often adds a suggested tip, but you can adjust it).
• Bars and lounges: $1–2 per drink, or 15% for larger orders.
• Spa and salon services: 15–20% of the service cost.
• Room service: $2–5 per order (not always covered by daily gratuity).
• Concierge or butler services (suites): $10–$20 per day, depending on level of service.

One thing I learned the hard way: if you use the self-service laundry on the ship, the attendants who help you load machines or provide detergent often appreciate a small tip (€1–2). It’s not mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture.

Can You Skip Gratuities Entirely?

Technically, yes—but it’s not easy. MSC allows guests to opt out of the daily gratuity system, but you’ll need to:

• Submit a written request at guest services (usually within the first 24 hours).
• Provide a valid reason (e.g., poor service, financial hardship).
• Be prepared to tip cash instead, which can be inconvenient.

Most guests don’t opt out, and for good reason: the daily charge is convenient, and it ensures crew are paid fairly. Plus, if you’re already paying for a premium cruise, skipping gratuities can come across as stingy. As one crew member told me, “We see it all—the generous tippers, the ones who skip, the ones who overtip. The daily charge keeps things fair for everyone.”

Common Questions and Real Guest Experiences

What If I’m Not Happy with the Service?

This is a big one. What if your room steward forgets to clean your cabin, or your waiter is rude? Can you reduce or remove gratuities?

MSC’s policy is clear: if you’re unhappy with service, talk to guest services immediately. They may:

• Adjust your gratuity rate for the remainder of the cruise.
• Issue a partial refund for the days affected.
• Assign a new staff member to your cabin or table.

I once had a dining room waiter who was consistently late with our meals. I reported it to guest services on Day 2, and they not only switched our server but also reduced our daily gratuity by $2 for the rest of the trip. It wasn’t a huge amount, but it showed MSC was listening.

Pro tip: Document issues (take notes, photos if possible) and report them early. The longer you wait, the less likely you are to get a resolution.

Gratuities on Short vs. Long Cruises

The longer your cruise, the more gratuities add up. A 3-night getaway might cost $84 in tips (at $14/day), while a 14-night transatlantic voyage could hit $784. That’s why it’s crucial to:

• Compare gratuity costs when choosing itineraries.
• Look for promotions that include gratuities (rare, but sometimes offered for suite bookings).
• Consider shorter cruises if you’re on a tight budget.

One couple I met on a 7-night Mediterranean cruise said they were shocked when their final bill showed over $500 in gratuities. “We knew about the $14/day,” they said, “but we forgot to multiply it by seven.” A simple calculation mistake—but one that could’ve been avoided with better planning.

Final Thoughts: Making Gratuities Work for You

So, how much are gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines? The answer depends on where you sail, what cabin you book, and how long you’re at sea. But now you know the full picture: daily rates range from $14 to $17 in North America, with discounts for kids and regional variations elsewhere. And while these charges aren’t optional, they’re a small price to pay for the incredible service you’ll receive.

The key is to plan ahead. Adjust your gratuities pre-cruise if needed, budget for extras like specialty dining, and don’t be afraid to speak up if service falls short. At the end of the day, gratuities are about more than just money—they’re a way to show appreciation for the crew who work tirelessly to make your vacation magical.

Next time you’re browsing MSC’s itineraries, take a moment to calculate your total gratuity cost. Factor it into your budget, pack some cash for extra tips, and sail with peace of mind. Because when you know what to expect, the only surprises on your cruise will be the ones you want—like a stunning sunset, a perfect mojito, or a towel swan on your bed. And that, my friend, is worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines per day?

Gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines typically range from $12 to $18 per person, per day, depending on the stateroom category. These automatic service charges are added to your onboard account unless you adjust them at guest services.

Are gratuities mandatory on MSC Cruise Lines?

Yes, gratuities (also called service charges) are automatically applied to your bill as a standard practice. However, you can modify or remove them by speaking with guest services onboard if you feel the service was unsatisfactory.

Can I prepay gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines?

Absolutely! MSC allows you to prepay gratuities when booking or before your cruise via your online account. Prepaying ensures the charges are settled before departure and may lock in lower rates if gratuity prices increase.

Do gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines vary by destination?

Generally, the daily gratuity amount remains consistent across most itineraries. However, some specialty restaurants or services (like spa treatments) may have separate suggested tips not covered by the standard gratuity fee.

How much are gratuities on MSC Cruise Lines for suites?

Guests in suites or Yacht Club accommodations usually pay higher gratuities, averaging $16–$18 per person, per day, to account for enhanced service levels. Check your specific cabin category’s policy when booking.

What’s included in MSC Cruise Lines’ gratuities?

The gratuities cover dining room, buffet, and cabin stewards’ services. Additional tips for specialty dining, spa, or bar staff are separate and at your discretion unless otherwise noted.