Cruise vacations have long been a popular choice for British travelers seeking relaxation and adventure on the high seas. However, one aspect of cruising that often leaves passengers feeling less than thrilled is the issue of gratuities. These charges can quickly add up, with some families facing bills of up to £1,000 on a two-week voyage. While tipping is a common practice in the cruise industry, not all lines adhere to the same costly US-style system.
The tradition of tipping on cruises dates back to a time when cash was placed in envelopes and handed directly to the crew. Nowadays, most ocean lines have adopted an American-style tipping system, with daily service charges automatically added to passengers’ on-board accounts. However, the policies and amounts of gratuities can vary significantly between different cruise brands.
In recent years, gratuity rates have seen a significant increase, with some lines charging as much as $18 (£14) per person per day. Norwegian Cruise Line, in particular, has implemented two successive hikes in gratuity rates, with the most recent increase bringing the daily charge to a whopping $20 (£15) – the highest among mainstream brands. For a family of four on a two-week cruise, this could mean shelling out $1,120 (£850) on top of the holiday price.
Other cruise lines with relatively high gratuity charges include Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, both at $17 (£13) per person per day. While these charges can be adjusted once on board through guest relations, passengers may find it challenging to do so, as staff may require them to justify their request.
One way to avoid hefty gratuity charges is to opt for cruise lines that include gratuities in the overall price. Luxury lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises have long offered all-inclusive pricing that covers tips, while other more affordable options like P&O Cruises, MSC Cruises, Marella Cruises, and Virgin Voyages have followed suit.
For those cruising on a budget, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines offers one of the lowest gratuity fees at £5 per person per day, with no additional service charge. Additionally, some river cruise lines like Uniworld, APT, and Travelmarvel include gratuities in their fares, while others leave it to the customer’s discretion, with suggested rates starting from €5-10 per person per day.
If you’re set on cruising with a company that still charges gratuities, there are ways to ease the financial burden. Some lines allow guests to pre-pay for gratuities, enabling them to budget more easily and avoid any future rate increases before their sailing date. Additionally, keep an eye out for special cruise deals that offer free gratuities or on-board credits, making your vacation more affordable and enjoyable.
In conclusion, while gratuities may be an unavoidable part of cruising for many passengers, there are ways to navigate these charges and make your vacation more cost-effective. By choosing the right cruise line and taking advantage of pre-payment options or special deals, you can enjoy a relaxing and memorable cruise experience without breaking the bank.