Which Cruise Lines Do Not Charge Gratuities Save Big on Your Next Vacation

Several major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, now include gratuities in their upfront pricing or offer prepaid options to help travelers avoid surprise fees. Lines like Virgin Voyages and Regent Seven Seas take it further with all-inclusive pricing that covers tips, drinks, and premium dining—maximizing value and convenience. Choosing one of these can save you hundreds and simplify budgeting for your next cruise.

Key Takeaways

• Choose luxury lines: Many high-end cruise lines include gratuities in their upfront pricing.
• Check all-inclusive deals: Some mainstream lines waive fees with premium packages—always compare options.
• Look for promotions: Limited-time offers may cover gratuities—book early to lock in savings.
• Small-ship cruises often exclude fees: Boutique and expedition lines frequently include tips in base fares.
• Read the fine print: Verify if gratuities are truly waived or just deferred to onboard charges.

Which Cruise Lines Do Not Charge Gratuities? Save Big on Your Next Vacation

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most significant expenses often overlooked is gratuities. These mandatory service charges, also known as “auto-gratuities” or “service fees,” can add hundreds of dollars to your final bill. For families and budget-conscious travelers, these fees can turn an affordable cruise into a surprisingly costly trip. The good news? Not all cruise lines charge gratuities. In fact, several major cruise operators have adopted a gratuities-included pricing model, where tips for crew members are bundled into the upfront fare, offering transparency and predictability in your travel budget.

Understanding which cruise lines do not charge gratuities—or include them in the base price—can save you hundreds of dollars and eliminate the stress of calculating and budgeting for daily tips. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, knowing the difference between lines that charge gratuities and those that don’t can make a massive difference in your overall vacation experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines that either include gratuities in their fares or offer a no-gratuity policy, break down the financial benefits, and provide practical tips to help you plan a more affordable and enjoyable cruise. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose a cruise that aligns with your budget and travel style—without the hidden tip trap.

Why Gratuities Matter: The Hidden Cost of Cruising

Gratuities on cruise ships are not just a minor add-on—they are a substantial part of the cruise experience, both financially and culturally. Most major cruise lines automatically charge passengers daily gratuities, typically ranging from $14 to $20 per person, per day, depending on cabin category. For a family of four on a 7-day cruise, this can easily add up to $560 to $800 in gratuities alone. That’s before you even factor in specialty dining, excursions, drinks, or spa services.

How Gratuities Work on Most Cruise Lines

On traditional cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account and charged at the end of the cruise (or sometimes pre-paid at booking). These fees are distributed among various crew members, including:

• Stateroom attendants
• Dining room waitstaff
• Bar and lounge servers
• Concierge and butler services (on higher categories)
• Kitchen and galley staff (indirectly)

While these tips are meant to reward hardworking crew members—many of whom rely on gratuities as a major portion of their income—the automatic nature of these charges can feel impersonal or even mandatory, especially if you’re already paying a high base fare.

The Rise of Gratuities-Included Pricing

As travelers demand more transparency and all-inclusive options, cruise lines have responded by offering gratuities-inclusive pricing. This model simplifies budgeting by folding service charges into the base fare. For travelers, this means no surprise fees at the end of the cruise. For the cruise lines, it’s a way to differentiate themselves in a competitive market and appeal to families, luxury seekers, and those who prefer hassle-free vacations.

Benefits of No-Gratuity or Inclusive Policies

• Cost predictability: No need to calculate daily tips or worry about currency conversion.
• Reduced onboard stress: Focus on relaxation instead of managing your account.
• Greater transparency: You know exactly what you’re paying for upfront.
• Better guest experience: Crews are paid fairly through the fare, not reliant on variable tipping.

For example, a family booking a 10-day cruise on a line with $18 per person per day in gratuities would save $720 by choosing a line where tips are included. That’s enough to cover a shore excursion, a spa treatment, or even a few bottles of premium wine.

Top Cruise Lines That Include Gratuities in the Fare

Several cruise lines have embraced the gratuities-inclusive model, making them ideal choices for travelers who want to avoid surprise fees. These lines either include service charges in the base fare or have a no-gratuity policy altogether. Below are the top cruise lines where you won’t have to worry about daily tips—or where tips are already covered.

1. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Gratuities: Included
Regent Seven Seas is a luxury cruise line known for its all-inclusive approach. Their motto is “Everything is Included,” and that includes gratuities. From the moment you step onboard, you won’t be charged any extra for tips, drinks, shore excursions, or even specialty dining. This makes Regent one of the most transparent and guest-friendly luxury lines.

• Gratuities: Fully included in the fare
• Alcohol: Premium wines and spirits included
• Shore excursions: Up to 1–2 per port included
• Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, and retirees

Example: A 7-day Mediterranean cruise on the Seven Seas Voyager might cost $6,000 per person, but that includes tips, drinks, and a complimentary excursion in each port. On a comparable non-inclusive line, you’d pay $6,000 + $126 per person in gratuities + $200+ for drinks + $300 for excursions—totaling over $7,500.

2. Seabourn Cruise Line

Gratuities: Included
Seabourn is another ultra-luxury line that includes gratuities in its fares. Their intimate, yacht-like ships (typically under 500 passengers) offer personalized service, and the no-tipping policy ensures a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.

• Gratuities: Included for all crew, including spa and concierge
• Alcohol: Premium wines and cocktails included
• Special perks: Welcome Champagne, complimentary spa access, and personalized service
• Best for: Discerning travelers, luxury seekers, and those who value privacy

Seabourn also offers a “Seabourn All-Inclusive” package on some sailings, which adds even more value with unlimited premium drinks and Wi-Fi.

3. Silversea Cruises

Gratuities: Included
Silversea is a leader in luxury small-ship cruising, with a strong emphasis on personalized service and all-inclusive value. All gratuities are included in the fare, and the line prides itself on a no-tipping culture.

• Gratuities: Included for all onboard staff
• Alcohol: Premium wines, spirits, and Champagne included
• Shore excursions: One complimentary excursion per port on most itineraries
• Best for: Luxury travelers, solo cruisers, and expedition enthusiasts

Silversea’s expedition cruises (e.g., Antarctica, Galápagos) also include gratuities, making them a standout choice for adventure travelers who want a hassle-free experience.

4. Oceania Cruises

Gratuities: Included (with some exceptions)
Oceania Cruises includes gratuities for most onboard staff, including dining room waiters, stateroom attendants, and bar staff. However, gratuities for spa and concierge services are not included and may be added automatically or at your discretion.

• Gratuities: Included for dining and housekeeping (~$18–$22 per person per day equivalent)
• Alcohol: Premium wines and spirits included in higher-tier fares
• Special perks: Culinary-focused voyages, gourmet dining, and destination immersion
• Best for: Foodies, culture lovers, and mid-sized luxury cruisers

Oceania’s “O Life Choice” promotions often include free gratuities for spa services, so it pays to book during special offers.

5. Viking Ocean Cruises

Gratuities: Included
Viking Ocean Cruises, part of the popular Viking brand, includes gratuities in its fares. The line is known for its elegant, Scandinavian-inspired ships and cultural enrichment programs.

• Gratuities: Fully included for all onboard staff
• Alcohol: Beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner included
• Special perks: Free shore excursions in every port, free Wi-Fi, and cultural lectures
• Best for: Retirees, culture enthusiasts, and first-time luxury cruisers

Viking also offers river cruises with the same no-gratuity policy, making it a consistent choice across their fleet.

Lines with No-Gratuity Policies (Rare but Real)

While most cruise lines either include gratuities or charge them automatically, a few stand out by having a true no-gratuity policy, meaning tips are neither included nor expected. These lines operate on a different service philosophy, often emphasizing fair wages and a tip-free culture.

1. Virgin Voyages

Gratuities: Not included, but not expected
Virgin Voyages, the brainchild of Sir Richard Branson, has a unique approach: gratuities are not added automatically, and tipping is not encouraged. Instead, crew members are paid fair, competitive wages, reducing reliance on guest tips.

• Gratuities: No auto-charges; tipping is optional and discouraged
• Alcohol: Premium drinks not included, but no drink packages required
• Special perks: Adults-only (18+), vibrant entertainment, tech-forward ships
• Best for: Millennials, Gen Z, and travelers seeking a modern, fun vibe

Virgin’s policy reflects a broader shift toward fair labor practices. While you can tip, most guests don’t—and the line doesn’t penalize you for it. This creates a more relaxed, judgment-free environment.

2. Windstar Cruises

Gratuities: Not included, but optional and appreciated
Windstar Cruises operates small, luxury yachts and does not automatically charge gratuities. However, they do provide envelopes at the end of the cruise for guests who wish to tip.

• Gratuities: No auto-charges; tipping is discretionary
• Alcohol: Premium drinks included in higher-tier fares
• Special perks: Watersports platform, intimate guest capacity (148–342), port-intensive itineraries
• Best for: Adventure seekers, couples, and luxury yacht enthusiasts

Windstar’s crew is paid well, so while tips are appreciated, they are not expected. This policy fosters a more personal connection between guests and crew.

Why These Policies Are Important

No-gratuity policies promote fair wages and reduce the pressure on guests to tip. They also reflect a commitment to ethical labor practices. While rare, these models are gaining attention as travelers become more conscious of how their money is distributed.

How to Spot Hidden Gratuity Fees (Even on “Inclusive” Lines)

Even on cruise lines that claim to include gratuities, there can be exceptions. It’s crucial to read the fine print and understand what’s covered—and what’s not. Here’s how to avoid surprise fees.

1. Spa and Concierge Services

Many lines that include gratuities for dining and housekeeping do not include tips for spa therapists, concierge staff, or specialty dining venues. For example:

• Oceania: Spa gratuities are added automatically (~$18 per service)
• Regent: Spa tips are included, but concierge tips may be expected on luxury suites
• Norwegian: Spa tips are not included, even though dining gratuities are auto-charged

Tip: Check the cruise line’s website or contact customer service to confirm spa and concierge policies.

2. Specialty Dining and Premium Experiences

Even on all-inclusive lines, some specialty restaurants or private experiences may have separate gratuity policies. For example:

• Silversea: Gratuities included at all restaurants, but private dining experiences may have additional charges
• Seabourn: All dining gratuities included, but private beach dinners may include a service fee

Tip: Ask the maître d’ or concierge about gratuity policies for private events before booking.

3. Group and Charter Bookings

Some cruise lines exclude gratuities for group bookings or charters, even if the line normally includes them. This is often due to negotiated contracts or third-party arrangements.

Tip: If booking through a travel agent or group tour, confirm whether gratuities are included in the group rate.

4. Pre-Paid Gratuities vs. Onboard Charges

Some lines allow you to pre-pay gratuities at a discounted rate, while others charge them onboard. Pre-paying can save you 10–15%, but it’s still a fee.

Example: Royal Caribbean charges $16.50 per person per day onboard, but offers a pre-paid rate of $14.50. That’s a $28 savings for a family of four on a 7-day cruise.

Smart Booking Tips: Maximizing Savings Without Sacrificing Experience

Choosing a cruise line with included gratuities is just one part of the savings equation. To truly maximize your vacation budget, consider these smart booking strategies.

1. Book During “Free Gratuities” Promotions

Many cruise lines—even those that normally charge gratuities—offer limited-time promotions where gratuities are waived or included. For example:

• Norwegian Cruise Line: “Free at Sea” promotions often include free gratuities (up to 4 per stateroom)
• Carnival Cruise Line: “Early Saver” deals sometimes include gratuity credits
• Princess Cruises: “Princess Plus” package includes gratuities, drinks, and Wi-Fi for a flat fee

Tip: Sign up for cruise line newsletters and follow travel deal sites like Cruise Critic or The Points Guy to catch these offers.

2. Choose All-Inclusive Packages

Even on lines that charge gratuities, all-inclusive packages can save you money. These bundles often include:

• Gratuities
• Drink packages
• Wi-Fi
• Shore excursions

Example: Princess Cruises’ “Princess Plus” package costs $60 per person per day but includes $50 in gratuities, $30 in drinks, and Wi-Fi. For a 7-day cruise, that’s $420 per person—but you’d pay $350 in gratuities alone without the package.

3. Travel Off-Peak

Gratuity-inclusive lines often have lower fares during shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October). You’ll save on the base fare and avoid peak-season surcharges.

4. Use Credit Card Points or Travel Rewards

Many travel credit cards (e.g., Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum) offer points that can be redeemed for cruise bookings, including gratuities. Some even offer statement credits for cruise expenses.

Comparative Data: Gratuities-Inclusive vs. Traditional Lines

Cruise Line	Gratuities Policy	Daily Gratuity Equivalent (If Not Included)	Alcohol Included?	Shore Excursions Included?	Best For
Regent Seven Seas	Included	$0	Yes (Premium)	Yes (1–2 per port)	Luxury, all-inclusive
Seabourn	Included	$0	Yes (Premium)	No (but discounted)	Ultra-luxury, yacht-like
Silversea	Included	$0	Yes (Premium)	Yes (1 per port)	Expedition, luxury
Oceania	Mostly included (spa not)	$18–$22 (dining/housekeeping)	Yes (higher tiers)	No	Foodies, culture
Viking Ocean	Included	$0	Yes (with meals)	Yes (free in every port)	Retirees, culture
Virgin Voyages	Not included (not expected)	$0 (optional)	No	No	Millennials, fun
Royal Caribbean	Auto-charged	$16–$20	No	No	Family, entertainment

This table highlights the stark difference between inclusive and traditional lines. While inclusive lines have higher base fares, the total cost of ownership is often lower when you factor in tips, drinks, and excursions.

Final Thoughts: Choose Transparency and Save Big

Choosing a cruise line that does not charge gratuities—or includes them in the fare—is one of the smartest ways to save money and reduce stress on your next vacation. Whether you opt for the all-inclusive luxury of Regent or the tip-free modernity of Virgin Voyages, the key is to know your options and plan accordingly.

By selecting a line with transparent pricing, you’re not just saving money—you’re supporting a model that values fair wages, guest satisfaction, and ethical service. And with smart booking strategies like timing your trip during promotions or bundling services, you can stretch your travel budget even further.

Remember, the best cruise isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the experience. With no surprise fees and a clear understanding of what you’re paying for, you can relax, enjoy, and truly make the most of your time at sea. So next time you’re browsing cruise deals, ask yourself: Does this line include gratuities? The answer could save you hundreds—and make your vacation even more unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines do not charge gratuities upfront?

Cruise lines like Viking Ocean Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises include gratuities in their upfront pricing, so you won’t face surprise service charges onboard. These brands emphasize all-inclusive experiences, helping travelers budget more accurately.

Are there any mainstream cruise lines that don’t charge gratuities?

While most major cruise lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean) automatically add daily gratuities, luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea absorb these costs in their fares. This makes them stand out for travelers seeking a no-tipping-required vacation.

Do cruise lines that don’t charge gratuities offer better service?

Not necessarily—service quality depends on staff training, not tipping policies. However, cruise lines that don’t charge gratuities often have higher crew-to-guest ratios and inclusive pricing, which can enhance the overall experience.

Can I skip gratuities on cruise lines that usually charge them?

Some lines (e.g., Norwegian Cruise Line) allow you to pre-pay or adjust gratuities, but you’ll rarely avoid them entirely. To truly skip gratuities, choose a line like Oceania Cruises, where tips are included in your fare.

How do cruise lines that don’t charge gratuities save me money?

By bundling gratuities into the ticket price, these lines eliminate daily service charges (typically $15–$20 per person). Over a 7-day cruise, this can save a family of four up to $560 in out-of-pocket costs.

Is it rude to not tip on a cruise line that doesn’t charge gratuities?

No—on lines like Azamara and Paul Gauguin Cruises, staff are paid fair wages without relying on tips. However, you can still give cash for exceptional service if you wish, but it’s never required.