Customary Tipping on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships: Recommended Practices
If you are embarking on a Royal Caribbean cruise, one important detail to address is the customary tipping for the crew, including your room steward. Whether it is a standard tip or an additional one, understanding the expectations and recommended amounts is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Standard Tipping Practices on Royal Caribbean Prime Excursions
At Royal Caribbean, tipping is a custom that ensures the crew is compensated for their hard work and dedication throughout your cruise. The amount depends on various factors, such as the type of cabin, the number of occupants, and the length of the sailing.
Recommended Tipping Amounts for Various Cabin Types
For non-suite and Junior Suite staterooms, the automatic service gratuity is set at 18.00 USD per person per day. For suites, the gratuity is slightly higher at 20.50 USD per person per day. These amounts are automatically applied to each guest’s SeaPass account daily.
For example, if you have a suite, the daily tip amount would be 18.00 USD per person. Given that suites typically have daily attendants, such as butlers, this amount accumulates over the duration of the cruise. If you and your partner are the only occupants of a suite, the tip would be calculated as follows:
18.00 USD/day x 2 people x 7 days 252 USD
Alternatively, if you are the only occupant of the suite, the tip amount would be 126 USD (half of 252 USD).This tip amount may seem substantial, but it is a fair compensation for the enhanced services provided. If you can afford a suite with butler service, the 126 USD for the butler's tip is a small price compared to the overall expenses of the cruise.
Adding Extra Tipping for Special Services
In addition to the standard gratuity, guests have the option of adding extra gratuities. These can be provided through Guest Services or even personally given to your room steward. Extra tips are appreciated for exceptional service, such as catering to special requests or going above and beyond to enhance your cruise experience.
For instance, if your cruise includes unexpected or personalized services, such as a birthday celebration or an anniversary, the amount you tip can vary widely. You may consider tipping around 5 USD per day, but this can increase if the crew goes above and beyond to make your cruise memorable.
Customary Tipping Practices Across All Cruise Lines
While Royal Caribbean has specific guidelines, other cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, also have customary tipping practices. In the welcome packet, guests are usually provided with a sheet detailing the suggested amount for tipping.
Other cruise lines may have variations in the tipping amounts, so it is always a good idea to check the specific cruise itinerary or the welcome packet for any additional details.
In conclusion, tipping is a customary practice on Royal Caribbean cruise ships. The recommended amounts vary based on the type and length of your cruise, offering the crew fair compensation for their services. Consideration of these amounts ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience during your cruise.