The debate over whether to tip while cruising is common, whether you’re an experienced sailor or new to the cruise scene.
Fortunately, many cruise lines have alleviated some of the confusion around gratuities by implementing automatic tipping. Most major cruise lines will add a daily service charge of $16 to $25 per guest to your fare. This fee can be settled in advance or once you board the ship. These automatic gratuities go to a variety of staff, including those who interact with guests directly, such as room stewards and dining staff, as well as behind-the-scenes crew like kitchen and laundry workers.
However, these automatic charges do not encompass all crew members or service providers you may encounter during your cruise. Additionally, passengers might feel certain services deserve a bit more than the included gratuities.
So, who should you tip (or tip more) in cash on your next cruise? Here are seven individuals who definitely deserve your extra gratitude.
Porters
Always keep some small bills handy if you plan to drop off larger luggage at the terminal curb when you arrive at the port. Porters will be available to collect your bags and bring them to the ship and will expect a tip. A gratuity of $1 to $2 per bag is generally appropriate.
Bartenders
This topic can spark debate, especially since “while drinking” is mentioned as one of the times you typically don’t have to tip on a cruise. However, hear me out.
Cruise lines usually include gratuities in your bar tabs, and those who have drink packages will see these charges incorporated into the package price. Nevertheless, many passengers, myself included, choose to offer bartenders a little extra. We often buy drink packages (no judgment here!) but still add an additional dollar per drink. If we aren’t on a package, we still tip a little extra.
If you have a favorite bar, consider offering your bartender a more generous tip at the beginning of the cruise for enhanced service. I’ve witnessed passengers hand envelopes to bartenders on the last night as a token of appreciation for their excellent service.
Tour Guides
Whether you’re on a cruise-arranged shore excursion or an independent tour, don’t forget to tip your tour guide and bus driver. A guideline is to provide about $3 per person for a half-day tour and around $6 for a full-day tour. Additionally, consider tipping the bus driver $1 to $2.
Room Service Staff
If you choose to order room service, consider giving a couple of dollars (per person) to the staff who delivers it. If you make special requests, like a romantic setup for dinner on your balcony, a more significant tip may be warranted.
Related: A detailed guide to cruise ship room service
Cabin Steward
Your cabin steward typically receives a portion of the daily service charge included in your cruise fare, but it’s a good practice to offer them an additional tip at the end of your cruise. They are often the crew members you interact with the most, providing consistent and personable service throughout your journey. Showing gratitude with an extra tip is a nice way to recognize their hard work.
Additional factors to consider include the size of your party and whether you have kids, as more occupants typically mean more cleaning. In these cases, it’s advisable to offer a higher tip for the additional efforts required.
Crew Members Who Leave a Mark
For instance, my daughter is vegan, and while cruise lines have significantly improved their plant-based menus, there have been instances where our dining staff went above and beyond to accommodate her dietary needs. We showed our appreciation with a monetary tip.
This illustrates a broader principle: if a crew member goes out of their way to make your experience memorable—perhaps a ship photographer who can entertain your child during a family photo shoot or a magician who captivates your kids—consider expressing your gratitude with a cash tip.
Hotel Cleaning Staff
If you’re staying at a hotel before or after your cruise, don’t forget to tip housekeeping—about $3 per night is customary. Additionally, tip the bellhop or hotel staff member aiding in transporting your luggage—around $1 per bag is standard.
Should I Tip Extra on a Cruise?
Tipping beyond the included gratuities is a personal decision. However, remember that staff members work tirelessly to make your cruise experience special. They often endure long contracts aboard, working 12-14 hour shifts for months at a time.
If you encountered crew members who delivered exceptional service that enhanced your cruise, consider tipping them extra to show your appreciation.
It’s always a good idea to have small bills on hand for tips during your cruise. If you’re caught without them, rest assured you can obtain change for larger notes at guest services.
If you decide against extra tipping, be sure to complete the post-cruise survey your cruise line provides and highlight those crew members who made a positive impact on your experience. Many crew members rely on such feedback for their performance evaluations and bonuses.
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