Who Gets the Tips on a Cruise Ship?

By Michael Ferguson

Cruise ships have long been known to be luxurious havens for the wealthy and famous, but what about those who work hard to make the experience so wonderful? Who gets the tips on a cruise ship? The answer is, everyone!

From the captain and cruise director to the wait staff and cabin stewards, everyone who contributes to making your cruise memorable deserves recognition for their hard work. While most people think of tipping only in regards to food and beverage service, tips should be given for all types of service onboard.

Cabin Stewards are responsible for cleaning your stateroom and providing you with all sorts of amenities. They are usually tipped a few dollars per day or a lump sum at the end of the cruise. If you have any special requests or needs, they will be happy to accommodate them as long as they can.

Waitstaff provide excellent food and beverage service throughout your stay on board. Tipping them is customary, with most people giving between $3 – $5 per person per meal. However, some cruise lines include gratuities in their packages; if this is the case, it is not necessary to tip beyond that amount.

Bar Staff are also responsible for providing alcoholic beverages as well as other drinks throughout your stay on board. A $1 – $2 tip per drink is customary when ordering at the bar; however, if a tab is kept during your stay, it is suggested that you add a 15 – 20% gratuity onto the final bill at the end of your cruise.

The Captain, Cruise Director, and other Officers onboard typically do not expect tips; however it is not uncommon for passengers to show their appreciation by leaving a generous tip in an envelope addressed to them at Guest Services prior to disembarkation.

Overall, tipping on a cruise ship is an important part of showing appreciation for all those who help make your vacation one you’ll never forget! Tipping crew members on board shows that you recognize their hard work and dedication.

Conclusion: Cruise ships employ many crew members whose sole purpose is providing excellent service throughout your stay aboard. From cabin stewards and waitstaff to bar staff and officers – everyone should be tipped according their individual performance – either daily or at the end of the cruise depending on what type of service was provided. Tipping crew members shows that you acknowledge their hard work and dedication which helps ensure that future cruises will be just as memorable!