The Ultimate Cruise Vacations Guide

The most comprehensive cruise vacations guide on the net!

Friday, July 17, 2009

Cruise Vacations Tipping Guide

Gratuity or "tips" on cruise vacations can be an annoyance to guests. It seems like everywhere you go, someone is sticking out there hand for a tip. Don't let this be the downfall of your trip and plan ahead so that you can worry about more important things, like having fun! Here is a tipping guide on most cruise ships.

Usually, gratuities are included and are automatically added to each person's account, per day. Gratuities usually do not go over $10. In some of the smaller ships, tips are already included within the cost of the cruise. Even though most cruise ships state that "tipping is not required", it is expected of you and from the staff a board the ship.

Plan on paying the following for different services:

Waiters:$3-$4 per head
Bus Boy:$1-$2 per head
Cabin Person:$3-$4
Butler:$5-$6

Tipping cabin stewards and butlers are usually performed on the last night of the cruise and many people pay half, half way during the cruise and the rest on the last night. Remember that most bar tabs and services will automatically add on a service fee to all tabs.

If you get annoyed about tipping, just plan accordingly and treat it as part of the travel package. Budget around tips and make sure to bring enough cash with you so you won't feel guilty not tipping or anger the people that are serving you on board. Being on a cruise vacations are fun, just make sure to plan your budget accordingly for the best experience.