If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you know that gratuities are an unavoidable expense. While they’re meant to reward the hardworking staff for their exceptional service, it can add up quite fast and become a significant portion of your total bill.
However, some people prefer not to pay gratuities or would like to tip directly to the staff members that they interact with the most. So, how do you avoid gratuities on a cruise? Here are a few ways:
Book a Cruise Line That Doesn’t Charge Automatic Gratuities
Some cruise lines do not have an automatic gratuity charge added to your bill. Instead, they leave it up to the passengers to decide whether or not they want to tip and how much. These cruise lines include Azamara Club Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Pre-Pay Your Gratuities
Another way to avoid gratuities is by pre-paying them when you book your cruise. Most of the major cruise lines offer this option, which means that you won’t have to worry about tipping during your vacation and can enjoy yourself without any additional expenses.
Speak with Guest Services
If you’re unhappy with the automatic gratuity charge or would like to tip specific individuals directly rather than through the general pool, speak with guest services onboard the ship. They can help adjust your bill accordingly and give advice on how best to show appreciation for those who have gone above and beyond in their service.
Tip Directly
If you prefer not to pay gratuities at all but still want to show appreciation for excellent service, consider tipping directly. You can give cash or gift cards as a token of thanks instead of adding it onto your final bill. However, keep in mind that some cruise lines have policies against tipping staff members directly, so it’s essential to check with guest services beforehand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are various ways to avoid gratuities on a cruise. Whether it’s booking a cruise line that doesn’t charge automatic gratuities, pre-paying them before your trip, speaking with guest services, or tipping directly, it’s up to you to decide what works best for you. Remember that while gratuities are an added expense, they’re meant to reward the hardworking staff who work tirelessly to make your vacation enjoyable and memorable.