The Truth About Tipping on a Cruise: What Crew Members Really Think — Full Insider Details Revealed
Tipping on a cruise can be a confusing and often controversial topic. While cruise lines typically add automatic gratuities to your bill—ranging from $14 to $20 per day, per guest—many travelers wonder where that money really goes and how the crew feels about it.
According to several cruise staff members, gratuities are a significant part of their income. Most crew work long hours, often 10 to 14 hours a day, seven days a week for months at a time. For many, tips help make the job worthwhile. “It’s not just extra cash—it’s how we support our families,” says one cabin steward.
However, not all crew members see tipping in the same light. Some feel that automatic tipping has led to passengers becoming less generous with personal recognition, while others appreciate the stability it offers.
Passengers can usually adjust or remove gratuities, but crew members often depend on them, especially those in housekeeping and food service roles. If you receive great service, leaving a little extra in person is always appreciated.
Bottom line? Tipping is more than just tradition—it’s a lifeline for many hardworking staff behind the scenes of your dream
vacation.
