Do you still tip on a cruise if you prepay gratuities?

The Great Gratuity Debate: Do You Still Tip on a Cruise with Pre-paid Gratuities?

The allure of a cruise often lies in the all-inclusive nature of the experience. But the question of gratuities can be a murky one, especially with the increasingly popular option of pre-paid gratuities. So, if you’ve opted for pre-paid gratuities, are you off the hook for additional tips? The simple answer is: generally, yes.

Pre-paid gratuities, often negotiated through travel agents or directly with the cruise line, represent a pre-arranged agreement covering standard service charges for your cabin steward, dining room staff, and other service personnel. This is a significant advantage, allowing you to budget effectively and avoid any surprises at the end of your voyage.

Crucially, the key phrase here is “standard service.” Pre-paid gratuities are designed to cover the expected level of service. They aren’t intended to be a reward for exceptional performance above and beyond the call of duty. Therefore, while you won’t be expected to tip extra, small gestures of appreciation for truly outstanding service are always welcome and entirely at your discretion. Think of a small, thoughtful gift or a few extra dollars for a staff member who went above and beyond to make your cruise memorable.

However, it’s important to clarify that this doesn’t apply to all aspects of the cruise experience. Pre-paid gratuities typically do not cover services such as:

• Bartenders: Tips for drinks are usually customary and not included in pre-paid gratuities.
• Spa treatments: Gratuities for spa services are generally separate and are often added to the bill.
• Specialty dining: While some specialty dining restaurants may include a service charge, others may still expect a tip. Check the details beforehand.
• Room service (beyond standard): For basic room service, the pre-paid gratuity might apply. However, more extensive requests or extra services could warrant an additional tip.
• Shore excursion guides: Tips for shore excursion guides are usually not included and are based on individual service.

Before your cruise, confirm with your cruise line or travel agent exactly what is included in your pre-paid gratuity package. This will alleviate any potential confusion and ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage. While pre-paid gratuities offer peace of mind, a little extra appreciation for exceptional service never goes amiss. Ultimately, the decision to offer additional tips remains yours, based on your experience and the level of service received.