Cruise ship gratuity charges
Whether you tip directly or automatically
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See Automatic gratuity. It may be automatic. But it’s not required (yet). Who should pay and how?
Here’s how much you can expect to pay.
Direct Gratuity Recommendations
If you opt out of automatic cruise gratuities, it is customary to tip cabin attendants and main dining room waiters approximately $3 to $5 per person, per day each in cash to reward good service. For a 7-day cruise, this totals roughly $20–$35 per person for each role
The cabin attendant and main dining room servers can be tipped on the final night, typically in envelopes. Tip every meal for flexible served dining. Some passengers like splitting the cabin attendant tip between the beginning and end of the trip.
Recommended Tipping Guide (Per Person/Day)
Cabin Steward: $3–$5 for general service, up to $10 for extra requests.
Dining Room Waiter: $3–$5 for standard table service.
Assistant Waiter: $1–$3.
Suite Butler (if applicable): $3–$5 extra.
Key Considerations
“Above and Beyond”: These amounts are to replace the, not in addition to, the automatic, standard, or prepaid service charges that usually cover all staff (including behind-the-scenes).
Cash is King: While automatic charges are shared, direct cash tips at the end of the cruise ensure your specific attendants receive the money directly.
Alternative Timing: If you prefer, you can tip a portion ($10–$20) on the first day to establish a good relationship, but the bulk is typically given on the last night.
Other Staff: Consider smaller tips for bartenders (if not already included) or special dining staff.
Automatic Cruise Ship Gratuity Charges (early 2026)
Per Person/Day
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): ~$20 (most cabins) up to ~$25 (suites).
Royal Caribbean: ~$18.50 (standard), ~$21 (suites).
Carnival Cruise Line: ~$16 (standard), ~$18 (suites).
Princess Cruises: ~$16 (standard) - $18 (suites).
Celebrity Cruises: ~$17.50 (standard) - $21 (suites).
MSC Cruises: ~$14.50 - $16 (non-Yacht Club).
Holland America Line: ~$17 (standard), ~$19 (suites).
Disney Cruise Line: ~$14.50 (most cabins).