How Much Are Tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines Revealed

Norwegian Cruise Lines recommends $16–$20 per person, per day in gratuities, with exact amounts varying by cabin category and service level. These tips are automatically added to your onboard account, ensuring seamless service for dining, housekeeping, and bar staff—budget accordingly to avoid surprises at checkout.

Key Takeaways

• Gratuities are mandatory: Norwegian Cruise Lines auto-charges tips daily unless you adjust them.
• Daily rates vary: Expect $20–$25 per person, per day for standard staterooms.
• Suites pay more: Guests in suites pay higher gratuities, often $25+ per person daily.
• Adjust anytime: Modify or remove tips via guest services before disembarking.
• Pre-pay for discounts: Book gratuities upfront for potential savings and convenience.

How Much Are Tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines? Let’s Break It Down

Ah, the age-old question every first-time cruiser asks: “How much are tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines?” You’re not alone. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping a cocktail on the deck of the Norwegian Encore or exploring the Norwegian fjords aboard the Norwegian Star, one thing’s for sure—gratuities (or “tips”) can feel like a confusing part of the cruise budget.

I remember my first cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). I was excited, but also nervous about hidden costs. I didn’t want to be that person awkwardly fumbling for cash at the end of the trip, or worse—under-tipping the crew who’d made my vacation magical. After several cruises, talking to crew members, and even chatting with NCL’s customer service, I’ve learned a lot. And now, I’m here to share the real deal with you—no fluff, no sales pitch, just honest, practical advice. Whether you’re a budget traveler or a luxury seeker, this guide will help you understand how much to tip, when, and why—so you can cruise with confidence.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Gratuities System

How NCL Handles Tips: The Basics

Unlike some cruise lines that leave tipping entirely up to you, Norwegian Cruise Lines uses an automatic gratuity system. This means a daily service charge is added to your account for each person in your stateroom, every night of the cruise. It’s not a suggestion—it’s a standard part of the fare, and it applies to all guests aged 2 and older.

The amount varies depending on your cabin category:

• Standard staterooms (Inside, Oceanview, Balcony): $16.99 per person, per day
• Suite and The Haven staterooms: $20.99 per person, per day

For example, a family of four in a balcony cabin on a 7-day cruise would pay:
4 people × $16.99 × 7 nights = $475.72 in automatic gratuities.

This fee covers the crew who serve you throughout the cruise—waitstaff in dining rooms, room stewards, bar staff, and even behind-the-scenes teams like dishwashers and laundry workers. NCL distributes these funds to staff based on their roles and hours, which is fairer than relying on individual guest generosity.

Why NCL Uses Automatic Gratuities (And Why It Makes Sense)

You might wonder: “Why not just tip as I go?” Great question. Automatic gratuities help ensure that crew members are paid fairly, regardless of whether a guest tips extra or not. On ships with thousands of passengers, it’s easy for some crew to get overlooked. With NCL’s system, everyone gets a base amount—so no one is left behind.

Plus, it simplifies things for guests. No need to carry cash, no awkward “how much do I tip?” moments at the end of dinner. You pay it once (or it’s added to your final bill), and that’s it. That said, many guests still choose to tip extra—especially for exceptional service. More on that later.

Pro tip: If you’re booking a last-minute cruise or have a special promotion, double-check your invoice. Sometimes NCL waives gratuities as part of a deal, but they’re usually reinstated at the end of the cruise if not paid upfront.

How Much Should You Tip Beyond the Standard Amount?

When Extra Tipping Makes Sense

While the automatic gratuity covers the basics, many cruisers choose to tip extra—and it’s often appreciated. Think of it like a bonus for going above and beyond. Here’s when extra tipping is common (and expected, in some cases):

• Your room steward who remembers your coffee order and keeps your cabin spotless. A few extra dollars each day (or a lump sum at the end) can make their day.

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• Waitstaff who provide outstanding service. If your server remembers your name, accommodates dietary needs, or makes your kids laugh with silly hats, a few extra bucks is a kind gesture.
• Bar staff who craft custom cocktails or remember your favorite drink. A dollar or two per drink (or a small stack at the end of the cruise) goes a long way.
• Specialty dining experiences. While the automatic gratuity covers most restaurants, some guests tip an additional 15–20% for exceptional service in places like Cagney’s Steakhouse or Le Bistro.
• Spa and excursion staff. If a massage therapist or tour guide really knocks it out of the park, a small tip (10–15%) is customary.

On my last cruise, I gave my room steward $20 at the end of the week. He had folded my pajamas into swans every night, left chocolates on my pillow, and even arranged my toiletries just how I liked them. Was it required? No. But it felt good to say “thank you” in a tangible way.

How Much Extra Should You Budget?

There’s no hard rule, but here’s a practical guideline:

• Room steward: $5–$10 per person, per day (or $50–$70 total for a 7-day cruise)
• Waitstaff: $3–$5 per person, per meal (or $10–$20 total per person for the cruise)
• Bar staff: $1–$2 per drink (or $20–$40 total for a week)
• Specialty dining: 15–20% of the cover charge (if applicable)

For a family of four, that’s an extra $200–$300 on top of the automatic gratuities. Is it necessary? Not always. But if you want to show appreciation, it’s a thoughtful gesture.

Real talk: Some guests skip extra tipping, especially if service is just “okay.” And that’s okay. The automatic gratuities are the baseline. Extra tips are bonuses—not obligations.

Can You Adjust or Remove the Gratuity Fee?

How to Modify Gratuities Before or During Your Cruise

Yes, you can adjust or remove the automatic gratuity—but there are rules. NCL allows you to:

• Modify the amount (e.g., reduce or increase it)
• Remove it entirely (but only if you have a valid reason)

To do this, you’ll need to visit the Guest Services desk during your cruise. You can’t do it online after boarding. Here’s what to expect:

Reasons NCL May Approve a Gratuity Adjustment

NCL isn’t heartless. They understand that service isn’t perfect 100% of the time. If you experienced serious issues, you can request a reduction. Valid reasons include:

• Consistently poor service (e.g., your room wasn’t cleaned for multiple days)
• Staff rudeness or unresponsiveness
• Repeated mistakes in dining (e.g., wrong orders, long waits)

But—and this is important—you need to document the issues and report them promptly. Waiting until the last day to complain about a problem from day two won’t help. NCL staff are trained to resolve issues on the spot. If you didn’t speak up during the cruise, they may deny your request.

On the flip side, if service was exceptional, you can increase the gratuity. Some guests do this to show extra appreciation, especially if they’re in a suite with a dedicated butler or concierge.

What If You Want to Remove Gratuities Entirely?

This is rare, and NCL rarely approves full removal unless there’s a major issue (e.g., a medical emergency, a family member passing away onboard). Even then, it’s not guaranteed. The gratuity system is designed to support crew livelihoods, so NCL is protective of it.

Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, consider booking a cruise where gratuities are already included in the fare (e.g., NCL’s “Free at Sea” package with “Unlimited Open Bar” and “Specialty Dining”). In those cases, the extra value often covers the gratuity cost.

Special Situations: Kids, Groups, and Promotions

Tipping for Children and Infants

Good news: kids under 2 are exempt from automatic gratuities. That means if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, you’re saving $16.99–$20.99 per day per child.

But here’s the nuance: if your child eats in the main dining room, uses the kids’ club, or gets special attention from staff, you might still want to tip. For example:

• Kids’ club counselors: $5–$10 at the end of the cruise
• Dining staff who help with high chairs, crayons, or patience with messy eaters: $1–$2 per meal

It’s not required, but it’s a nice way to say thanks to the staff who make cruising with kids easier.

Group Bookings and Large Parties

If you’re traveling with a group (e.g., a family reunion or wedding party), NCL may offer a group gratuity rate. This is often negotiated during the booking process. For example, a group of 10+ might get a reduced rate of $14.99 per person per day instead of $16.99.

Also, if you’re hosting a private event (like a dinner for 20), NCL may add a service charge of 15–20% to the bill. This is separate from the automatic gratuity and is standard practice for large events.

Promotions That Include Gratuities

NCL frequently runs promotions that include gratuities—especially during “Free at Sea” deals. For example:

• Book a balcony stateroom and get “Unlimited Open Bar” + “Specialty Dining” + “Gratuities Included”
• “Free Gratuities” as a perk for booking early or with a travel agent

Watch out: These promotions usually apply only to the first two guests in the room. Additional guests (e.g., kids or third/fourth adults) may still be charged gratuities. Always read the fine print.

On my last group cruise, we booked through a travel agent who negotiated “gratuities included” for all four of us. It saved us over $500—money we used for excursions and souvenirs!

Tips for Managing Gratuities: Budgeting and Payment

How to Budget for Gratuities (Without the Stress)

Here’s how to avoid sticker shock:

1. Calculate the automatic gratuity based on your cabin type and number of guests. Use NCL’s online calculator or do it manually.
2. Add 20–30% for extra tipping (if you plan to tip beyond the standard). For a $500 automatic gratuity, budget $600–$650 total.
3. Factor in specialty dining and spa services (if applicable). These often have separate gratuity expectations.
4. Set aside cash or a separate card for tipping. I keep $100–$200 in small bills and a backup credit card just for tips.

Example:
– 2 adults, 2 kids (1 under 2), 7-day cruise, balcony cabin
– Automatic gratuity: 2 × $16.99 × 7 = $237.86
– Extra tips (room steward, waitstaff, bar): $150
– Total: ~$388 (kids under 2: $0 gratuity)

Payment Methods: Cash vs. Card

You can pay gratuities in two ways:

• Pre-pay online before the cruise (recommended). You’ll get a receipt and avoid last-minute stress.
• Pay onboard via your onboard account (charged to your credit card at the end).

For extra tips, cash is best. Crew members prefer it because it’s immediate and doesn’t get processed through the system. Keep small bills (ones, fives, tens) for convenience.

Pro tip: If you forget cash, you can still tip via your onboard account. Just ask Guest Services to add a “discretionary gratuity” for a specific crew member. But cash feels more personal.

Data Table: Norwegian Cruise Lines Gratuities at a Glance

Category	Daily Rate (Per Person)	7-Day Total (Per Person)	Notes
Standard Staterooms	$16.99	$118.93	Applies to Inside, Oceanview, Balcony cabins
Suite / The Haven	$20.99	$146.93	Higher rate for premium service
Children Under 2	$0	$0	No gratuity charged
Extra Tipping (Estimate)	$5–$10	$35–$70	Per person, based on service quality
Specialty Dining (Extra)	15–20% of cover	Varies	Optional but appreciated

Final Thoughts: Tipping on NCL Is Simple—If You Know the Rules

So, how much are tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines? Now you know: $16.99–$20.99 per person, per day, with room for extra appreciation if you choose. It’s not a one-size-fits-all system, but it’s fair, transparent, and designed to support the crew who make your vacation special.

Here’s my final advice: Don’t stress. The automatic gratuity is there for a reason—to ensure everyone gets paid fairly. If you want to tip extra, do it with joy, not guilt. And if service falls short, speak up early and ask for a fair adjustment.

Cruising is about relaxation, adventure, and making memories. With this guide in hand, you can focus on the sunset, the shows, and the laughter—not the math of tipping. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and enjoy the ride. The crew will be ready to welcome you. And now, you’ll be ready to thank them—just the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines per day?

Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) recommends $16–$20 per person, per day in gratuities for standard staterooms, with higher amounts for suites. These “service charges” cover dining, housekeeping, and other staff. The exact amount depends on your stateroom category and cruise length.

Can I adjust or remove tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Yes, you can adjust or remove the automatic gratuities by visiting guest services onboard. However, NCL strongly recommends keeping them to fairly compensate crew members. Any changes must be made during your cruise.

Do I need to tip extra on Norwegian Cruise Lines beyond the daily charges?

The daily tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines cover most standard services, but extra tipping is appreciated for exceptional service or specialty dining. For example, spa therapists, butlers, or bartenders may warrant additional gratuity at your discretion.

Are tips included in Norwegian Cruise Lines’ “Free at Sea” packages?

No, gratuities are not included in “Free at Sea” promotions. You’ll still pay the standard daily tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines for service charges. These are added to your onboard account unless adjusted at guest services.

How are gratuities calculated for children on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Children aged 3–12 pay half the standard gratuity rate ($8–$10 per day), while kids under 3 are exempt. This policy ensures fair compensation for staff while reducing costs for families.

What happens if I prepay tips on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Prepaid gratuities lock in the current rate and streamline your onboard experience. They’re charged per person for the entire cruise and cannot be refunded unless the booking is canceled within the penalty-free window.