Cruise Gratuities, Explained
Cruise gratuities are automatic daily service charges of $16 to $26 per person on mainstream lines, split among cabin stewards, dining and behind-the-scenes crew, plus 18 to 20 percent added to bar and spa purchases. They are adjustable at guest services but function as part of the real fare, and a few lines now bundle them.
What every line charges
| Line | Daily charge per person | Drinks and spa add-on |
|---|---|---|
| Carnival | $16 to $18 | 18 percent |
| Royal Caribbean | $18.50 to $21 | 18 percent |
| Norwegian | $20 to $25 | 20 percent |
| MSC | $16 to $18 | 15 percent |
| Princess | $17 to $19, bundled in Plus and Premier fares | 18 percent |
| Celebrity | Bundled in All Included fares, else about $18 | 20 percent |
| Disney | $14.50 suggested per person | 18 percent |
| Virgin, luxury lines | Included in the fare, full stop | Included |
The questions people actually argue about
Can you remove them? Yes, at guest services, and the crew know exactly which cabins did. Our honest take: the charges are deferred wages in an industry priced around them, removing them to save money is stiffing the steward who folded your towels into elephants, and if service genuinely failed, adjust with a conversation rather than a zero. Should you tip extra? Cash to a standout steward or bartender on the last night remains warmly received and entirely optional.
Prepay or pay aboard? Prepaying at booking locks the current rate (they rise most years), converts the cost into the trip budget psychologically, and is required with some dining choices. There is no discount either way; there is only the pleasure of a final bill that does not surprise you. Suites pay a dollar or two more per day everywhere, and kids usually pay full freight from age 2 or 3, families should budget accordingly.
The best rate is usually not online
Our cruise desk sees agent-only pricing, cancellation returns and unpublished promotions across every major line. Two minutes on the phone regularly beats an hour of tab comparison.
Frequently asked questions
How much are gratuities on a 7 day cruise for two people?
At 2026 rates, roughly $225 to $350 for the couple on mainstream lines, before the automatic percentages on drinks. Prices checked: August 2026.
Are gratuities included in the cruise fare anywhere?
Virgin Voyages and the luxury tier (Regent, Silversea, Seabourn, Viking) include them entirely. Princess and Celebrity bundle them into their upgraded fare packages.
Do I tip on top of the automatic gratuities?
Not expected. Extra cash for standout individuals, room service deliveries and porters at the terminal ($1 to $2 a bag) is customary and appreciated.
Get today's best price on your next cruise
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