Are ncl gratuities mandatory?

**Are NCL Gratuities Mandatory?**

Yes, gratuities on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) are mandatory. On NCL, an automatic gratuity charge is added to the onboard account for each guest and covers the service of waitstaff, stateroom stewards, and other behind-the-scenes crew members who work hard to make the cruise experience enjoyable for guests.

**Frequently Asked Questions about NCL Gratuities**

How much are the gratuities on NCL?

Gratuities on NCL typically amount to around $15 per person, per day for standard staterooms. An additional amount may be charged for guests staying in suites or other higher-tier accommodations. It’s important to check with NCL for the most up-to-date information on gratuity charges.

Can I opt out of paying gratuities on NCL?

While it is technically possible to opt out of paying the automatic gratuity charge, it is discouraged by NCL. Gratuities are an important part of the compensation for onboard crew members, and opting out of paying them should only be done in situations where service has been severely lacking.

Can I pre-pay gratuities on NCL?

Yes, guests have the option to pre-pay gratuities when booking their cruise. This can be a convenient way to take care of the gratuity charge in advance, and it’s a good idea for guests who want to have a clear understanding of the total cost of their cruise before they set sail.

Do children have to pay gratuities on NCL?

Yes, children are also subject to the automatic gratuity charge on NCL. The amount charged for children may be lower than the standard adult rate, but it is still an important part of ensuring that crew members are fairly compensated for their hard work.

Are gratuities mandatory for speciality dining and beverage service on NCL?

Gratuities are usually included in the cost of speciality dining and beverage service on NCL. However, guests should always check their receipts to ensure that gratuities are included, especially when dining at speciality restaurants or ordering drinks.

Can I adjust the amount of gratuities I pay on NCL?

Yes, guests have the option to adjust the amount of gratuities they pay on NCL. If they feel that the service they received was exceptional or below par, they can speak to guest services to have the gratuity charge adjusted accordingly.

How are gratuities distributed to crew members on NCL?

The automatic gratuity charge is pooled and distributed among the various crew members who directly contribute to the guest experience. This ensures that all crew members, including those who may not be visible to guests, are fairly compensated for their hard work.

Are gratuities charged on shore excursions booked through NCL?

Gratuities are typically not included in the cost of shore excursions booked through NCL. Guests should budget for additional gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and other service providers at the various ports of call.

Do I need to tip on top of the automatic gratuity charge on NCL?

While it is not mandatory, guests may choose to provide additional gratuities to individual crew members who go above and beyond to make their cruise experience memorable. This is especially common for guests who receive exceptional service from specific crew members.

What happens if I refuse to pay the gratuities on NCL?

If a guest refuses to pay the automatic gratuity charge, they may be approached by guest services to discuss the reasons behind their decision. It is important to note that gratuities on NCL are an integral part of the compensation for onboard crew members, and the cruise line encourages guests to raise any service-related issues during their cruise so that they can be addressed promptly.

**In conclusion, gratuities on NCL are indeed mandatory, and they play an important role in ensuring that crew members are fairly compensated for their hard work. Guests should be aware of the automatic gratuity charge and plan accordingly when budgeting for their cruise vacation.**