On a cruise, how does this work?

Question

i heard when you go on a cruise you have to pay the tips at the end of the trip. i dont really understand how this works out, or much it might end up being!!!! HELP,lol!!!!

Answer 1

Please use this info as a guide only - you are absolutely free to go plus or minus. All $ are per person per night:

Cabin Stewart $3.50
Waiter 3.50
Asst Waiter 2.00
Matre 'd 1.00

TOTAL $10.00

So, for a 7-night cruise, figure $70.00 per person or $140.00 per couple. Most cruise ships will allow you to "pre-pay" your gratuities, then make any adjustments during the cruise

You've got to remember that most crew members listed above make about $2.00 per hour and depend on their livelihood and support of their families from your tips. I am a long-time and frequent cruiser, and can tell you that these are all hard working folks that deserve your support.

Some final thoughts; 1) if a crew member goes out of their way to provide you with some special service, an additional tip is never out-of-order; 2) if you order room service, a few dollars to the delivery person is the norm; 3) if you're in a suite and have a butler or concierge service, you will need to include them in your tipping; and 4) all beverages will include a 15% tip - automatically, no matter if you order it at the pool, in the night club or a bottle of wine with dinner.

Answer 2

Don't even worry about that, they will be reminding you how and how much towards the end of the trip.

On a cruise, you consolidate everything onto one account per cabin which they'll ask for a credit card imprint as a back up of all the spending inclusive of all food, beverage, purchases and the gratuity towards the end. Add to it if the experience is better than expected but it's all voluntary.

On a cruise, there are basic service standards and it's fairly good at that. It's NOT like going into a high end restaurant in the US where below standard tips will get you insulted in return.