Who do you tip at the end of a cruise?

Who do you tip at the end of a cruise?

When it comes to tipping at the end of a cruise, it’s important to show appreciation for the exceptional service you received from various crew members. While each cruise line may have its own guidelines, there are common personnel who should be considered for tipping. The following are the individuals you should consider tipping at the end of your cruise:

Cabin Stewards

Cabin stewards play a vital role in ensuring your room is clean, tidy, and comfortable throughout your cruise. They often go above and beyond to make your stay memorable. It is customary to tip your cabin steward at the end of your cruise, usually around $5 to $10 per day, per person, depending on the level of service provided. If your steward has exceeded your expectations, it’s always a nice gesture to tip more.

Waitstaff

The waitstaff in the main dining room work tirelessly to provide excellent service during your meals. They ensure your dining experience is enjoyable and may even remember your favorite dish or drink. Most cruise lines automatically charge a gratuity for dining staff, but it is still customary to add a little extra if the service was exceptional. Approximately $1 to $2 per person, per day is an appropriate amount.

Bartenders and Baristas

If you frequent the ship’s bars for your favorite cocktails or morning coffee, it’s customary to tip the bartenders and baristas. They often remember your drink preferences and go the extra mile to make sure you have a great time. Tipping around 15% of the total bill is a good guideline, or you can opt to tip $1 per drink or specialty coffee.

Specialty Restaurant Staff

If you’ve dined at the ship’s specialty restaurants, it’s customary to tip the staff there as well. These restaurants often have a higher level of service and a different dining experience, which is reflected in the bill. A tip of around 15% to 20% of the final bill is appropriate in these cases.

Spa and Salon Personnel

If you’ve taken advantage of the ship’s spa or salon services, tipping the personnel is customary. Similar to tipping at a land-based spa or salon, around 15% to 20% of the final bill is customary.

Other Personnel

While the above are the main personnel you should consider tipping, there are other crew members who work hard behind the scenes to ensure your cruise is enjoyable. If you’ve received exceptional service from someone not mentioned above, feel free to tip them as well. Some examples include the concierge, laundry staff, and casino dealers.

Remember to always use your discretion and consider the level of service you received when deciding on the appropriate tip amount. It’s a way to show gratitude and appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the crew members who made your cruise experience unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is tipping mandatory on a cruise?

While tipping is not compulsory, it is customary to tip various crew members who provide exceptional service during your cruise. Tips are a way to show appreciation for their hard work.

2. Are tips automatically added to the bill?

Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your onboard account. These gratuities are then distributed among the crew members. However, it’s still common to tip certain individuals directly.

3. How much should I tip my cabin steward per night?

The recommended tip for a cabin steward is around $5 to $10 per day, per person, depending on the level of service provided. If your steward has gone above and beyond, it’s always nice to tip more.

4. Do I need to tip if I have a beverage package?

While you may have a beverage package that covers your drinks, it’s still customary to tip the bartenders and baristas who serve you. Tipping around 15% of the total bill or $1 per drink is appropriate.

5. Should I tip the crew members during the cruise or at the end?

It’s customary to tip crew members at the end of your cruise. However, if someone has provided exceptional service that you’d like to acknowledge, you can tip them personally during the cruise.

6. Should I tip in cash or can I use my credit card?

It’s recommended to have small bills in cash to tip crew members, as some may prefer cash. However, you can also use your credit card to add gratuities to your onboard account.

7. Are tips expected at the ship’s buffet or self-service areas?

Tips in self-service areas are not expected. However, if a crew member goes out of their way to provide exceptional service at the buffet, you can choose to tip them.

8. How much should I tip the waitstaff in the main dining room?

Most cruise lines automatically charge a gratuity for dining staff. However, it’s common to add a little extra, around $1 to $2 per person, per day, if the service was exceptional.

9. Do I need to tip if I have a specialty dining package?

If you’ve purchased a specialty dining package, gratuities are usually included. However, it’s still customary to tip the staff at specialty restaurants around 15% to 20% of the final bill.

10. Should I tip the performers or entertainers on the ship?

Tips for performers or entertainers are not expected or necessary. However, if you thoroughly enjoyed a specific performance and want to show appreciation, you can provide a small tip.

11. Should I tip crew members on a river cruise?

Tipping customs may vary on river cruises. It’s best to check with your specific cruise line to understand their tipping policies for crew members.

12. Can I adjust the automatic gratuity added to my onboard account?

Most cruise lines allow you to adjust the automatic gratuities added to your onboard account if you feel the service did not meet your expectations. Make sure to reach out to guest services for any adjustments you’d like to make.