So, you’re embarking on your first cruise! Congratulations! You’re about to experience the ultimate #SeaTheWorld adventure. But amidst the excitement, you might be wondering about tipping. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate gratuities and tipping during your voyage:
Gratuities: The Basics
Automatic Gratuities: Most cruise lines include automatic gratuities for your dining room servers, assistant servers, and cabin stewards in your daily onboard account.
Check your daily statement: Review your daily onboard account carefully. You’ll typically see the daily per-person amount for these services.
Adjust if needed: If you feel the service was exceptional, you can easily adjust the gratuity amount on your account. If you feel the service was below expectations, you can also adjust it downward.
Specialty Dining: Gratuities are usually included in the price of specialty dining experiences.
Tipping Beyond Gratuities:
Room Service:
For basic orders: A small tip ($2-$5) is customary for basic room service orders.
For special requests: A larger tip is appreciated for more elaborate requests or deliveries outside of regular hours.
Bar Staff:
Standard tipping: Tip $1-$2 per drink is generally appropriate.
For exceptional service: Feel free to tip more generously for excellent service.
Shore Excursions:
Tour guides: Tipping tour guides is customary, especially for excellent service. A general guideline is $5-$10 per person.
Drivers: If your shore excursion includes transportation, a small tip for the driver is appreciated.
Important Notes:
Currency: While onboard, all transactions are typically charged to your onboard account. You’ll settle your account at the end of the cruise.
Cash: While not always required, having some cash on hand can be helpful for tipping porters who assist with your luggage and for tipping in some ports of call.
Why Travel Insurance is a Must:
Before you even think about tipping, consider purchasing travel insurance. Cruise vacations can be expensive, and unexpected events like medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or lost luggage can quickly derail your trip. Travel insurance can provide financial protection against these unforeseen circumstances, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on enjoying your #CruiseLife.
Passport Essentials & Cruise Line IDs:
Passport Required: For most international cruises, a valid passport is essential. Check the specific requirements for your cruise itinerary, as some may allow for alternative forms of identification for certain destinations.
Cruise Line IDs: Upon boarding, you’ll receive a cruise line ID card. This card acts as your key to your cabin, your payment method onboard, and your identification while on the ship. Keep your cruise line ID card with you at all times.
Avoiding Missing the Ship:
Stay Organized: Keep track of your disembarkation time and ensure you have ample time to return to the ship from shore excursions.
Utilize Ship Communications: Stay connected to the ship through onboard announcements and the ship’s internal communication system.
Check-In Promptly: When returning to the ship, check in promptly at the designated area.
Don’t Overindulge: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can impair your judgment and make it difficult to return to the ship on time.
Relax and Enjoy!
Remember, cruising is meant to be relaxing and enjoyable. While tipping is a customary part of the experience, don’t stress about it too much. Focus on enjoying your cruise and creating lasting memories!
Disclaimer: This is a general guide, and tipping customs may vary slightly between cruise lines. Always refer to your cruise line’s specific policies and your onboard information for the most accurate information.
I hope this helps you navigate the world of tipping on your first cruise!
Please note: This is an informational blog post and does not constitute financial advice.
