What Cruise Lines Include Gratuities in Their Fares

Most major cruise lines now include gratuities in their fares, simplifying the onboard experience and eliminating surprise charges. Brands like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival automatically add daily service fees—ranging from $14 to $20 per person—covering crew tips, though premium services may still require extra. This shift reflects a growing industry trend toward all-inclusive pricing, helping travelers budget with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• All-inclusive pricing: Some luxury lines like Regent and Silversea include gratuities upfront.
• Mainstream options: Norwegian Cruise Line bundles tips in select fare packages.
• No surprises: Check fare details to confirm if gratuities are included before booking.
• Pay later: Most lines add mandatory daily tips post-cruise unless prepaid.
• Luxury perk: Gratuities-inclusive fares often signal higher-end service and amenities.
• Save time: Prepaid gratuities simplify budgeting and eliminate onboard payment stress.

Understanding Gratuities on Cruises: What’s Included and What’s Not

Cruising is often hailed as one of the most convenient and all-inclusive vacation experiences available. From gourmet dining to world-class entertainment and exotic destinations, cruise lines promise a hassle-free getaway. But one question that frequently arises—especially among first-time cruisers—is whether gratuities (also known as service charges or tips) are included in the cruise fare. The answer isn’t always straightforward. While some cruise lines bundle gratuities into their base price, others add them automatically to your final bill, and a few still expect guests to tip manually based on service received. This distinction can significantly impact your total vacation cost and budgeting strategy.

Understanding which cruise lines include gratuities is essential for avoiding unexpected charges and making informed decisions. With the cruise industry offering a wide range of options—from luxury liners to budget-friendly megaships—the policy on tipping varies dramatically. Some high-end lines pride themselves on all-inclusive pricing, while mass-market lines often rely on gratuities to support staff salaries. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what cruise lines include gratuities in their fares, highlight the nuances between automatic and included tips, and provide practical advice to help you plan a seamless, stress-free cruise vacation. Whether you’re considering a luxury river cruise or a Caribbean family adventure, knowing the gratuity policy upfront can save you time, money, and confusion.

How Gratuities Work on Cruise Ships: The Basics

What Are Cruise Gratuities?

Cruise gratuities, or service charges, are fees added to your onboard account to compensate the ship’s crew—particularly the housekeeping, dining, and bar staff—who provide personalized service throughout your voyage. These tips are meant to recognize the hard work of employees who may be away from home for months at a time. While tipping was once a discretionary practice, most modern cruise lines now use automatic gratuity systems to ensure fair compensation and simplify the guest experience.

However, not all gratuities are the same. Some cruise lines include tips in the base fare, meaning you pay them upfront and don’t see them as an added charge. Others add a daily gratuity rate to your account, which can range from $14 to $25 per person, per day, depending on the cabin category and cruise line. This daily rate is typically non-negotiable, though some lines allow adjustments or opt-outs (often with conditions).

Included vs. Automatic: Key Differences

• Included gratuities: These are built into the cruise fare from the start. You pay them as part of your initial booking, and no additional charges appear on your final bill. This model is common on luxury and premium cruise lines.
• Automatic gratuities: These are calculated daily and added to your onboard account. While not discretionary, they appear as a separate line item on your final statement. You can usually prepay them at a discounted rate or pay at the end of the cruise.
• Discretionary tipping: A few cruise lines (especially older or more traditional ones) still allow guests to tip individually based on service. This method is becoming rare due to its inconsistency and potential for underpayment.

For example, a 7-night cruise with a daily automatic gratuity of $18 per person means an additional $126 per person (or $252 for a couple) added to your bill. In contrast, if gratuities are included, that cost is already factored into your upfront price. The key is knowing which model applies before you book.

Why Gratuity Policies Vary

Cruise lines determine their gratuity policies based on brand positioning, operational costs, and labor practices. Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn often include gratuities to emphasize their all-inclusive appeal. Meanwhile, mass-market lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean rely on automatic gratuities to keep base fares lower and support crew wages, which may be subsidized by tips. Understanding these motivations helps explain why some lines include tips while others don’t.

Cruise Lines That Include Gratuities in Their Fares

Luxury and Premium Cruise Lines

Many high-end cruise lines pride themselves on offering an all-inclusive experience, where gratuities are included in the cruise fare. This model appeals to travelers seeking a seamless, no-surprise vacation. These lines often cover not only gratuities but also premium beverages, shore excursions, and specialty dining. Below are some of the top cruise lines that include tips:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: One of the most inclusive luxury lines, Regent includes gratuities, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, unlimited shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and even airfare in some packages. Guests do not pay any additional tips during the cruise.
• Seabourn Cruise Line: Part of Carnival Corporation’s luxury portfolio, Seabourn includes gratuities, premium cocktails, and gourmet dining. The line is known for its personalized service and small-ship intimacy.
• Silversea Cruises: This ultra-luxury line includes gratuities, all drinks (including premium wines and spirits), and butler service. Silversea also offers expedition cruises with included gratuities for naturalists and guides.
• Ponant: A French luxury line specializing in expedition and cultural voyages, Ponant includes gratuities, premium drinks, and even onshore experiences. Their ships feature a high crew-to-guest ratio, and tips are never expected.
• Oceania Cruises: While not fully all-inclusive, Oceania includes gratuities in most of its fares, especially on longer sailings. Premium beverages and specialty dining are also often bundled.

These lines typically charge higher base fares, but the inclusion of gratuities (and other perks) often results in better overall value for travelers who would otherwise spend heavily on drinks and excursions.

River Cruise Lines with Included Gratuities

River cruising has seen a surge in popularity, and many river lines have adopted the all-inclusive model, including gratuities. This is especially common on European river cruises, where service standards are high and tipping culture differs from the U.S.

• AmaWaterways: Gratuities are included in the fare for all sailings. The line also offers complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, as well as guided excursions.
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: Known for its opulent ships, Uniworld includes gratuities, premium drinks, and daily excursions. Their “all-inclusive” tagline emphasizes no hidden costs.
• Avalon Waterways: While base fares don’t always include gratuities, Avalon offers a “Gratuities Included” fare option for an additional fee. This is ideal for travelers who want to avoid daily charges.
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours: Scenic includes gratuities, all drinks, and shore excursions on its river and ocean cruises. Their “all-inclusive, all the way” policy is a major selling point.

River cruise gratuities are typically lower per day than ocean cruises (around $10–$15 per person), but including them in the fare simplifies budgeting and enhances the guest experience.

Other Notable Exceptions

Some niche or boutique cruise lines also include gratuities. For example:

• Windstar Cruises: While not fully all-inclusive, Windstar includes gratuities in most of its promotions and packages. They also offer a “Taste of Luxury” program with included drinks and Wi-Fi.
• Lindblad Expeditions (with National Geographic): These expedition cruises include gratuities for guides, crew, and staff. The focus is on immersive experiences, and tips are never expected.

It’s worth noting that even on lines that include gratuities, exceptional service may still warrant additional recognition. However, this is entirely optional and not expected.

Cruise Lines with Automatic (Non-Included) Gratuities

Major Ocean Cruise Lines

Most mainstream cruise lines use an automatic gratuity system, where tips are added daily to your onboard account. These charges are non-negotiable in most cases, though some lines allow adjustments or prepayment discounts. Here are the major players:

• Royal Caribbean International: Charges $16.50 per person, per day for standard cabins, and $18.50 for suites. Gratuities are automatically added and can be prepaid at a reduced rate (e.g., $14.50/day).
• Carnival Cruise Line: Sets gratuities at $14.50 per person, per day for standard cabins, and $16.50 for suites. These can also be prepaid for savings.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Charges $16.50 per person, per day for standard cabins, and $19.50 for suites. NCL allows guests to remove gratuities, but this often requires speaking to guest services and may result in reduced service.
• MSC Cruises: Charges $12.50 per person, per day for adults, and $6.25 for children. Gratuities are automatically added but can be adjusted or removed under certain conditions.
• Disney Cruise Line: Sets gratuities at $14.50 per person, per day for standard cabins, and $15.50 for suites. Disney allows guests to opt out, but this is rare and discouraged.

These lines often offer prepaid gratuity packages that lock in lower rates and avoid last-minute charges. For example, prepaying on Royal Caribbean can save up to 12% compared to paying at the end of the cruise.

Tips for Managing Automatic Gratuities

If you’re sailing with a line that uses automatic gratuities, here are some practical tips:

• Prepay early: Most lines allow prepayment up to 3 days before sailing at a discounted rate. This avoids surprises and locks in the best price.
• Check for promotions: Some cruise lines waive gratuities as part of a sale (e.g., “Free Tips” deals). These are often time-limited, so book early.
• Review your final bill: Even with automatic charges, verify that the correct amount was added. Errors can happen, especially on long cruises.
• Consider suite benefits: Some suites come with included gratuities or concierge service that handles tipping. This can add value to premium accommodations.

For example, a family of four on a 7-night Carnival cruise would face $406 in automatic gratuities ($14.50 x 4 x 7). Prepaying might reduce this to $350, saving $56.

Lines That Allow Gratuity Adjustments

A few cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, allow guests to adjust or remove gratuities. However, this is typically done at the guest’s discretion and may require a conversation with guest services. While intended to promote fairness, removing gratuities can lead to reduced service, as crew rely on these funds. It’s generally recommended to pay the standard amount unless there’s a serious service issue.

How to Determine Gratuity Policies Before Booking

Researching Cruise Line Policies

Before booking, always verify the gratuity policy. Here’s how:

• Visit the cruise line’s official website: Look for sections titled “Pricing,” “Inclusions,” or “Onboard Expenses.”
• Read the fine print in brochures and emails: Gratuity details are often buried in disclaimers. Watch for phrases like “additional charges may apply” or “service charges not included.”
• Check third-party review sites: Travel forums like Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor often have threads discussing gratuity policies and guest experiences.
• Ask your travel agent: A reputable agent should know the gratuity policy and can help you compare options.

For example, a quick search of “Regent Seven Seas gratuities” will confirm that they are included. In contrast, searching “Royal Caribbean gratuities” will show daily rates and prepayment options.

Using Comparison Tools

Several websites and tools help compare cruise fares, including gratuities. For instance:

• Cruise Critic’s Price Comparison Tool: Breaks down base fare, taxes, and gratuities for multiple lines.
• CruiseSheet: Offers a “Total Cost” view that includes estimated gratuities and port fees.
• Vacation packages on Expedia or Costco Travel: Often display total costs with gratuities pre-included, making comparisons easier.

These tools are especially useful when deciding between a luxury line with included tips and a mainstream line with lower base fares but higher daily charges.

Reading Cruise Contracts and Confirmations

After booking, review your confirmation email and contract. Most lines will list gratuities under “Additional Charges” or “Service Fees.” If gratuities are included, they’ll be noted as such. If not, the daily rate and payment method will be specified. This is your final chance to ask questions or request prepayment before the cruise.

Special Cases and Exceptions to Gratuity Policies

Suite and Concierge-Level Guests

On many cruise lines, suite guests receive enhanced service and may have gratuities included or waived. For example:

• Royal Caribbean’s Suite Guests: Often receive included gratuities as part of their suite benefits package.
• Norwegian’s The Haven: Guests in The Haven suites pay no automatic gratuities, as they’re included in the fare.
• Carnival’s Havana Cabins: These exclusive cabins include gratuities, premium drinks, and private access areas.

These perks can add significant value and are worth considering when upgrading accommodations.

Group Bookings and Charters

For group bookings (e.g., weddings, corporate events), cruise lines may offer customized gratuity packages. Some include tips in the group contract, while others allow the organizer to prepay or distribute tips separately. Always negotiate these terms in advance.

Special Promotions and “Free Gratuities” Deals

During peak booking periods (e.g., Wave Season), cruise lines often run promotions that include “free” gratuities. For example:

• Royal Caribbean’s “Kids Sail Free” + “Free Tips”: A common combo during winter sales.
• Carnival’s “Free Gratuities” on select sailings: Typically for new bookings made within a specific window.

While these deals are attractive, they’re usually time-limited and may have restrictions (e.g., not applicable to suites). Read the terms carefully.

Data Table: Gratuity Comparison Across Major Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Gratuity Policy	Daily Rate (Standard Cabin)	Daily Rate (Suite)	Can Be Prepaid?	Included in Fare?
Regent Seven Seas	All-inclusive	$0	$0	N/A	Yes
Seabourn	All-inclusive	$0	$0	N/A	Yes
Royal Caribbean	Automatic	$16.50	$18.50	Yes (discounted)	No
Carnival	Automatic	$14.50	$16.50	Yes	No
Norwegian (NCL)	Automatic	$16.50	$19.50	Yes	No (but can be removed)
AmaWaterways	Included	$0	$0	N/A	Yes
Disney	Automatic	$14.50	$15.50	Yes	No
Silversea	All-inclusive	$0	$0	N/A	Yes

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cruise Based on Gratuity Policy

When planning your next cruise, understanding what cruise lines include gratuities in their fares is more than a financial consideration—it’s a key factor in shaping your overall vacation experience. Luxury and premium lines like Regent, Seabourn, and Silversea offer the convenience and peace of mind of all-inclusive pricing, where tips, drinks, and even excursions are covered. For travelers seeking simplicity and no surprises, these options are worth the higher base fare. On the other hand, mass-market lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and NCL provide lower upfront costs but add daily gratuities, which can add hundreds to your final bill.

The best choice depends on your priorities: Do you value transparency and convenience, or are you comfortable managing additional charges for a lower initial price? Use the research tools and comparison strategies outlined in this guide to evaluate your options. Prepay gratuities when possible, read contracts carefully, and consider suite upgrades if included tips are a priority. Ultimately, whether you sail with a line that includes gratuities or one that adds them automatically, knowing the policy in advance empowers you to budget wisely and enjoy your cruise without financial stress. By making an informed decision, you’ll spend less time worrying about tips and more time enjoying the open sea, gourmet meals, and unforgettable destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines include gratuities in their base fares?

Several premium and luxury cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Silversea, automatically include gratuities in their upfront pricing. This eliminates the need for passengers to pay additional daily service charges during the cruise.

Do all-inclusive cruise lines cover gratuities?

Yes, most all-inclusive cruise lines—like Seabourn, Crystal Cruises, and Oceania Cruises—cover gratuities as part of their comprehensive fare. This perk is a hallmark of their high-end service model, ensuring a seamless guest experience.

Are gratuities included on Carnival or Royal Caribbean cruises?

No, mainstream lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean do not include gratuities in their base fares. Instead, they charge daily automatic gratuities, which can be prepaid or settled onboard.

What cruise lines include gratuities and offer flexible tipping options?

Luxury lines like Azamara and Windstar Cruises include gratuities but allow guests to adjust amounts for exceptional service. This hybrid approach balances convenience with personal recognition for crew members.

Can I prepay gratuities on cruise lines that don’t include them?

Yes, most major cruise lines (e.g., Norwegian, Princess) let you prepay gratuities at a discounted rate before sailing. This avoids daily charges and locks in the cost, simplifying your onboard budget.

Are there budget-friendly cruise lines that include gratuities?

While rare, some smaller or niche lines, like UnCruise Adventures, bundle gratuities into their fares. These options often focus on expedition cruising and aim to provide transparent pricing for travelers.