10 Situations Where Tipping Is Unnecessary on a Cruise

Whether you like it or not, the tipping culture thrives on cruise ships.

By booking a cruise, you agree to provide tips for the crew. Most cruise lines include a daily gratuity or service charge in your fare, either paid upfront or added once you board. They also automatically add gratuities to various onboard purchases. Additionally, you're expected to tip tour guides, porters, and room service delivery staff separately.

Once you adopt a tipping mindset, you may feel inclined to offer extra cash each time you interact with a crew member. Fortunately, that's not necessary. Here are 10 instances where you can skip tipping on your cruise (although you might still choose to do so).

When traveling with luxury cruise lines

Luxury cruise lines like Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Silversea Cruises include crew gratuities in their cruise fares. There's no expectation for you to tip on these voyages.

That said, it's appreciated if you choose to give your butler, favorite waiter, or bartender a cash tip; good service deserves recognition. You might also consider contributing to the crew fund, which provides the hardworking staff with treats and entertainment options.

When you opt for an all-inclusive package

Some upscale cruise lines offer inclusive packages that cover drinks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes gratuities for the crew. By booking these packages on lines like Princess Cruises and Windstar Cruises, you won't incur any automatic gratuity charges. There’s no need to feel obligated to tip your waiter or room steward additionally.

When enjoying drinks, with a caveat

When you order a drink at a bar, restaurant, or lounge on a cruise ship, it's standard for the cruise line to add a gratuity of 15% to 20% to your bill, meaning that a $6 beer could end up costing you $7.20. If you have a drink package, tips are included.

Extra tipping isn't necessary, even if your check includes a line for "additional gratuity." However, some passengers believe they receive better service—like having their name and preferred drink remembered, or even getting complimentary samples—if they tip the bartender $20 or more at the start of the cruise.

The caveat is this: If there's a particular bar staff member who has consistently gone above and beyond to meet your beverage needs, feel free to express your gratitude.

Ultimately, it’s a personal decision. Tipping your favorite server at the end of the cruise is a kind gesture, but it’s not obligatory.

At the Spa and Beauty Salon

Onboard spas and salons typically include an 18% gratuity added to the cost of your relaxing massage or stylish blowout. While there’s an option on your receipt to add an additional tip if you wish, it’s not required.

Many cruisers have unknowingly given an extra tip, not realizing that gratuity was already included in the treatment price, effectively doubling their tip on an already pricey indulgence. Avoid falling into that trap.

At Specialty Restaurants

Gratuities are usually included in the additional $10 to $100 per person fee for specialty restaurants on your ship, such as the steakhouse or sushi bar. A tip might be factored into the restaurant's set price or automatically added to your bill at the end of your meal.

You aren't expected to give more if a tip is already included. However, if your waiter surprised you with an extra order of escargot or made your dining experience truly unforgettable, you might consider adding a few extra dollars to your bill.

When crew members assist with special requests

During your cruise, you might have special requests, such as needing extra towels or pillows, assistance with your cabin safe, or repairs for a malfunctioning shower or toilet. Tipping for these services isn't expected, as fulfilling these requests falls under the basic responsibilities of the ship's room stewards (who are covered by the ship's auto-gratuity) and maintenance staff.

At the Kids Club or Youth Program

Most children's programs are free of charge, and the youth staff generally do not expect tips. If your child really bonds with a specific counselor, it’s perfectly fine to give them a cash tip at the end of the cruise as a gesture of thanks. A heartfelt note and a drawing from your child can also be a wonderful way to show appreciation.

When Attending a Show

You aren't required to tip the magician performing tricks, the Disney character posing for photos with your child, the musicians entertaining on the pool deck, or the host of trivia games. The onboard performers are compensated for enhancing your cruise experience and do not seek additional payment beyond your applause.

One exception is the piano bar musician, who may have a tip jar for song requests. (The larger the tip, the quicker he’ll play your song.)

When Buying Ice Cream or Coffee

When you order an ice cream cone or gelato at the ice cream shop, or a cappuccino at the coffee bar, you won’t find a tip jar like you would on land. Tipping is not necessary—although you might see an automatic gratuity added to your bill, similar to what you find in bars.

When Encountering an Officer

Attempting to tip the captain, officers, or the senior crew members—including the cruise director, hotel director, and executive chef—is seen as disrespectful. These individuals are well-compensated for their extensive training. Moreover, slipping the captain a $20 bill won’t expedite your trip to the Bahamas.

Final Thoughts

Cruise ship crew members are dedicated to making your vacation unforgettable. They often spend months away from home and support families far away. A small tip from you can greatly impact their lives.

Even if you’re not fond of tipping culture, it’s important to pay the automatically added gratuities, as they significantly help the onboard staff. You might consider giving a little extra to your favorite crew member or the most helpful staff, but there’s no need to feel obligated to tip everyone you encounter on board.