When you’re cruising, one of the many perks is having a cabin steward who takes care of your room. They clean it, make your bed, and even leave cute towel animals for you to enjoy.
But one question that often comes up is: how much should you tip your cabin steward? Here’s everything you need to know about tipping your cabin steward on a cruise.
Why Should You Tip Your Cabin Steward?
Your cabin steward is an essential part of your cruise experience. They work hard to ensure that your room is clean and comfortable throughout your trip. They also provide little extras like fresh towels and ice as well as respond to any requests or issues that may arise during the trip.
Tipping your cabin steward shows them appreciation for their hard work and dedication towards ensuring that you have a great vacation experience. It also helps them earn additional income since most cruise ship employees rely on tips as a significant portion of their wages.
How Much Should You Tip Your Cabin Steward?
The amount you should tip your cabin steward varies depending on the cruise line and the length of your trip. Generally, it’s recommended to tip between $3-$5 per day per person in your cabin. So, if you’re on a seven-day cruise with two people in the room, you should plan on tipping around $42-$70 for the entire trip.
However, some cruise lines have different guidelines for tipping. Some automatically add gratuities to your onboard account, which typically range from $10-$15 per person per day. Be sure to check with your specific cruise line before setting sail so that you’re aware of their guidelines.
When Should You Tip Your Cabin Steward?
You can either pre-pay or wait until the end of the trip to tip your cabin steward. If you want to pre-pay, simply add the recommended amount to your onboard account before the trip begins. This way, you won’t have to worry about carrying cash or forgetting to tip at the end of the trip.
If you prefer to wait until the end of the trip, most cruise lines provide envelopes in your room on the last night. You can place cash inside and hand it directly to your cabin steward or leave it in a designated area for them to collect.
Other Ways to Show Appreciation
If you want to go above and beyond in showing appreciation for your cabin steward, there are several other ways to do so. You can leave a note thanking them for their hard work or even bring them a small gift like chocolates or a souvenir from one of your port stops.
Conclusion
Tipping your cabin steward on a cruise is an important way to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication towards making sure that you have an enjoyable vacation experience. Remember to check with your specific cruise line for their tipping guidelines and consider going above and beyond by leaving a note or small gift as well. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way towards being a great cruiser and having an unforgettable vacation!