msc cruise gratuities 2023

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Hotel Service Charge

During your cruise you will meet staff throughout the ship who provide you with excellent service. They are supported by just as many staff and crew who work hard behind the scenes to ensure you enjoy every moment onboard. For your convenience, MSC Cruises will automatically add a daily Hotel Service Charge to your shipboard account, based on your chosen itinerary and the number of days for which the services are actually provided. The Hotel Service charge serves to ensure we maintain the highest quality standards of service to our guests. The daily amounts below have been calculated with this in mind. However, should you wish to modify any of the daily Hotel Service Charge in the unlikely event that you do not receive satisfactory service, you may do so by contacting the Guest Relations Manager onboard. If you wish, the daily Hotel Service Charge for your cruise can be added to the price of your cruise at the time of booking, rather than added to your onboard account during the cruise. Please let your booking agent know if you would like to add the Hotel Service Charge to your cruise price. TIPS: MSC does not recommend tipping individual members of staff. For any additional information, please consult the below grids.

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.

Hotel service charge valid for all new bookings from october 2nd 2023 onwards, hotel service charge valid for all bookings confirmed from december 12th 2022 up to october 1st 2023, hotel service charge valid for all bookings confirmed before december 12th 2022, is the hotel service charge detailed in the booking confirmation, what happens to the hotel service charge when guests change their booking, can the hotel service charge be reduced or cancelled in case of complaints on board, are msc voyagers club members exempt from the hotel service charge, some guests have always tipped individual employees. would that also be allowed, how is the hotel service charge shared with the staff, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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MSC Gratuities: The Amounts and All the Details (2024)

March 22, 2024

Like every other cruise line, MSC requires the payment of gratuities .

On the official documents, the company refers to these fees as a daily hotel service charge that is automatically added to the shipboard account.

In this article, we’re going to see the cost of gratuities on MSC , how you can pay for them , if they’re compulsory , and any other questions related to this topic .

I hope you find all the information you need, if you still have doubts remember that you can leave a comment at the bottom of the page . I will get back to you as soon as I can!

Table of Contents

Are gratuities included on MSC cruises?

No, gratuities are not included in the booking price .

You usually pay for them at the end of your cruise. In fact, you will find them added to your shipboard account and you will have to settle them before you leave the ship.

The price of gratuities on MSC

The amount of gratuities on MSC can change based on your chosen itinerary and the number of days of your cruise .

Below, I’ve created a list of the gratuities amount for the most common itineraries .

For cruises to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and New England:

Adults (from 12 years old) $16 per night

Children (2 to 12 years old) $8 per night

Children (under 2 years old) no charge

For cruises to South America:

Adults (from 12 years old) $14.50 per night

Children (2 to 12 years old) $7.25 per night

For cruises to Asia:

Children (2 to 12 years old) $14.50 per night

For cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Antilles, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar, MSC World Cruise, Egypt, Red Sea, and Saudi Arabia:

Adults (from 12 years old) 12€ per night

Children (2 to 12 years old) 6€ per night

Can you prepay gratuities on MSC?

Yes, I asked MSC directly and they confirmed that it is possible to prepay gratuities for cruises departing from the US .

To do this you can contact your travel agent or you can contact the company directly. The total amount will be added to the cruise price which must be paid in full before departure.

Opt out of MSC gratuities

I want to clarify that gratuities are compulsory on MSC Cruises because they’re considered hotel service charges (as I said at the beginning of the article).

However, there’s a way to remove them . If you do not receive satisfactory service you can go to the guest services desk and ask to modify the amount or completely remove them .

As I already said in the article on how to remove gratuities on Royal Caribbean , they will probably ask you what the problem was to investigate what happened .

You are free not to answer if you don’t want to, but it would be better to use this possibility ethically .

If the service provided was good, consider leaving and paying gratuities, they will be equally distributed among all the crew members .

Do I still have to tip while onboard?

No, you don’t have to ! MSC does not recommend tipping individual members of staff.

This is because the tips you leave individually are not equally shared . Keep in mind that there are many workers that you don’t see but who do a lot of work. For example those in kitchens, laundries, engine rooms…

Only with automatic gratuities, these people can have access to a small extra amount at the end of the month .

However, if you really want to, it’s not forbidden to tip individual people if you particularly liked their service.

Service Charges / Gratuities

IMPORTANT NOTE : please be informed that as of December 12th, 2022, our updated and automatic Hotel Service Charge per person per day will be outlined as in the table below.

Guests with existing bookings made before December 12th 2022, will not be impacted by this change .

For any additional information, please consult the below grids.

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HOTEL SERVICE CHARGE

For your convenience, MSC Cruises will automatically add a daily Hotel Service Charge to your shipboard account, based on your chosen itinerary and the number of days for which the services are actually provided. The Hotel Service charge serves to ensure we maintain the highest quality standards of service to our guests. The daily amounts below have been calculated with this in mind and cannot be modified. However, should you wish to remove any of the daily Hotel Service Charge in the unlikely event that you do not receive satisfactory service, you may do so by contacting the Guest Relations Manager onboard. If you wish, the daily Hotel Service Charge for your cruise can be added to the price of your cruise at the time of booking, rather than added to your onboard account during the cruise. Please let your booking agent know if you would like to add the Hotel Service Charge to your cruise price. TIPS: MSC does not recommend tipping individual members of staff. Please find below the new automatic Hotel Service Charge rates valid: - From October 2nd, 2023, for cruises sailing to Caribbean and North America ; guests with existing bookings confirmed before October 2nd, 2023, will not be impacted by this change . - From October 19th, 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Republic of Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards; guests with existing bookings confirmed before October 19th , 2023, will not be impacted by this change.

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.

Hotel service charge valid for all new bookings from october 2nd 2023 onwards, onwards for cruises sailing to caribbean and north america, hotel service charge valid for all bookings confirmed from december 12th 2022 up to october 1st 2023, hotel service charge valid for all bookings confirmed before december 12th 2022, are msc voyagers club members exempt from the hotel service charge, what happens to the hotel service charge when guests change their booking, is the hotel service charge detailed in the booking confirmation, how is the hotel service charge shared with the staff, some guests have always tipped individual employees. would that also be allowed, can the hotel service charge be reduced or cancelled in case of complaints on board, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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Hotel Service Charge

Starting on 1 April 2021 - for all new reservations on Winter 2021-22 departures and onwards - Hotel Service Charge is mandatory as an integrated part of the total price. It does not apply to children under 2 years of age old at the time of the cruise departure date and the rates are per person per day.

Please find below the new automatic Hotel Service Charge rates valid:

- From October 2nd, 2023, for cruises sailing to Caribbean and North America ; guests with existing bookings confirmed before October 2nd, 2023, will not be impacted by this change.

- From October 19th, 2023, for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Republic of Korea from 12th of March, 2024 onwards; guests with existing bookings confirmed before October 19th , 2023, will not be impacted by this change.

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.

Hotel service charge valid for all new bookings from october 2nd, 2023, onwards for cruises sailing to caribbean and north america, hotel service charge valid for all bookings confirmed from december 12th 2022 up to october 1st 2023, hotel service charge valid for all bookings confirmed before december 12th 2022, is the hotel service charge detailed in the booking confirmation, what happens to the hotel service charge when guests change their booking, can the hotel service charge be reduced or cancelled in case of complaints on board, are msc voyagers club members exempt from the hotel service charge, some guests have always tipped individual employees. would that also be allowed, how is the hotel service charge shared with the staff, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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How Much Are Gratuities on MSC Ships?

Take a look at how gratuities are charged on MSC ships so you are aware of what you are paying during your cruise and how to manage your expenses.

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MSC Cruises are provided by a European family-owned company and are known for their high-class and regal-themed cruises. They’re based in Switzerland specifically and have made a reputable image for themselves in the industry by providing exceptional services and prioritizing their customers’ needs over all else.

MSC Cruises are probably the best option when looking for cruises to spend your well-deserved vacation on. One thing that should always be kept in mind, though, is the gratuities. To explain it in much simpler terms, gratuities are tips that you provide to the cabin crew and any staff you interact with for their helpful services, whatever they may be. Some cruise lines charge and pre-add gratuity to your overall bills, while some simply provide you with the option to do so when the time comes to pay the bills. Gratuities can be taken as a way for you to express your appreciation for the crew members and all the services that they have provided you during your journey, and they’re also a great way to boost morale for them and motivate them to provide an even better service next time.

MSC Cruise Service Charges: Know Before You Go

Taking MSC into account, let us explore and understand the concept of gratuities and the gratuity rates aboard the MSC cruise .

The Gratuities on MSC Cruise

Gratuities are a form of a tip that is meant to be collected together and then distributed in equal amounts amongst all crew members onboard. The rates for these can vary depending on a lot of factors, and they can also be different depending on the cruise line.

MSC is extremely transparent in its overall billing process and adds the gratuity amounts directly to the bill under ‘hotel service charge.’ The charges vary following your itinerary list, what services you are provided with, and how long your stay is on the cruise.

MSC has also provided full details on its website as well to provide its customers with better clarity. This information can be very helpful when you are budget planning for your cruise trip. One piece of information to remember is that if you book your cruise from the UK , the gratuity is already added to the overall cruise fare. If you book your cruise from Europe , these rates are usually added to promotional costs. Lastly, if you book a cruise from the USA , these rates can vary for each cruise and fall between 6 to 16 euros per person/night .

The rates change depending on when the cruise was booked. We are providing a generalized rate list below for your convenience:

For Adults (over 12 years old): The generalized gratuity rates for adults (over 12 years old) generally fall between 12 to 16 euros per person/night on many MSC cruises from around the world.
For Children (Aged 2 and over): The gratuity rates for children range easily between 3 euros to 13 euros per child/night . For children who fall below the age of 2, there are no gratuity rates attached to the overall bill.

Ways to Pay Gratuity aboard the MSC

As mentioned before, if you book a cruise from the UK, the gratuity is naturally added to the bill, and this is oftentimes non-removable (though you can always consult with the representatives of MSC), while booking from Europe entails that these rates are usually included within promotional charges on your bills. These are mainly removable, and you can simply go to the receptionist area on the cruise and consult them on how you can get them removed or changed.

Another option through which you can pay gratuity is through the pre-pay option. This can help you avoid any last-minute budget hassles that can cause hindrances to your plan.

Another option to pay a gratuity is to add the amount directly to the bill at the end of your trip. You can opt to add your desired gratuity amount when it is time to finalize your bill. This way, you can have more control over how to pay the gratuity amount and how much.

Related: What Is the Tipping Policy on MSC Cruises ?

All in all, gratuities can be a great way to show your appreciation to the cabin crew and can also prove to be a way to provide rightful compensation to the crew. These rates differ from cruise to cruise based on the region, age of passengers, itinerary, package, and number of days that you plan to travel on the cruise. If you are planning on booking your next cruise soon, use Cruisebooking.com as your booking partner for reasonable packages and a simple and easy booking process!

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Home » Cruise Tips » Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)

Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)

In this complete guide to cruise gratuities for 2023, we explain everything you need to know and break down the costs by cruise line.

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If you are new to cruising, you should know that not everything is included in your cruise vacation. In addition to your cruise fare, there are other services charges for which you will need to budget . This includes daily per person cruise gratuities as well as service charges added to purchases like drinks and spa treatments.

In this post, we explain everything you need to know about cruise gratuities broken down by cost for each cruise line.

COMPLETE VIDEO GUIDE TO CRUISE GRATUITIES

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Everything You Need to Know About Cruise Gratuities in 2023

What are cruise gratuities.

Cruise gratuities are services charges that are not included in a standard cruise fare on most contemporary cruise lines, similar to a hotel resort fee. These additional fees are a per person, per day dollar amount that are charged to all guests across all stateroom categories.

And unfortunately, most contemporary cruise lines have increased or plan to increase these charges in 2023.

Norwegian Bliss Balcony Stateroom Review - Cruise Gratuities

Guests are usually charged automatically for these additional fees.

Depending on the cruise line, these charges are usually applicable to guests 2-3 years of age and older.

These charges serve as a means to reward the hard-working crew for the excellent service provided during your cruise vacation.

These cruise gratuities are divided among stateroom attendants, dining staff, and other behind the scenes crew members in a proportion determined by the cruise line. This method is meant to be more equitable across all staff.

As stated above, these service charges apply to all guests regardless of stateroom category. However, some stateroom categories do have higher fees than others.

These cruise gratuities also apply to all guests regardless of your dining options. Cruisers who opt to only eat in the buffet, who select anytime dining, or who choose more traditional dining will all pay the same amount based on their stateroom category.

Carnival Panorama Dining Guide - cruise gratuities

Is it better to pre-pay gratuities on a cruise?

Guests can pay for these cruise gratuities in one of two ways. If you would prefer to pay ahead of time, most cruise lines allow guests to pre-pay their gratuities at the time of booking or anytime prior to sailing. These fees will then be added into your total cruise fare and covered with your final payment.

One major benefit of pre-paying your cruise gratuities is that you will pay the current rate. If prices should happen to increase before your sailing, you will not need to pay extra for these increased costs.

If you do not pre-pay the gratuities, you will need to pay the current per day, per person dollar amount at the time of your sailing. This fee will be added to your stateroom account once onboard the ship.

How Much Are Cruise Gratuities in 2023?

The exact charge for these cruise gratuities do vary by cruise line and by stateroom category. While gratuities are part of the cruise fare on some luxury lines, cruisers should plan to pay the following fees on the majority of major cruise lines.

It is important to note that these cruise gratuities have been on the rise, with most major cruise lines recently raising prices or set to do so in 2023.

Gratuities on Royal Caribbean

As of September 7 th , 2022, the gratuities on Royal Caribbean ships are:

$16 per person, per day for guests in non-suites staterooms
$18.50 per person, per day for guests in suites

This fee is applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis.

In addition, guests will pay an 18% gratuity on all beverages , mini bar items, and spa & salon purchases. This is on top of the cruise gratuity charges.

Gratuities on NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Norwegian Cruise Line’s cruise gratuities for bookings made on or after January 1, 2023 are:

$25 for guests staying in the Haven and Suites
$20 for all other staterooms, Club Balcony Suites and below

For bookings made before January 1, 2023, that pre-pay gratuities before the sail date, prices are as follows:

$20 per person per day for The Haven and Suites
$18 per person per day for Club Balcony Suite
$16 per person per day for all other stateroom types

There is an additional 20% gratuity for all spa and salon services. There is also a 20% service charge on all beverage purchases and all specialty restaurant dining and entertainment based dining. Further, cruises to Hawaii also have a 4.275% service tax applied.

Carnival Cruise Gratuities

Carnival Cruise Line’s gratuities are also increasing in 2023.

For cruise departures prior to April 1, 2023, guests will need to pay:

Standard Staterooms: $14.50 per person, per day
Suite Staterooms: $16.50 per person, per day

On cruise departures on or after April 1, 2023, the fee increases to:

Standard Staterooms: $16 per person, per day
Suite Staterooms: $18 per person, per day

For beverage purchases , an automatic 18% gratuity will be added to the bill in addition to the cruise gratuity.

Carnival Celebration Balcony Cabin - Cruise Gratuities 2023

Gratuities on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has also increased the price on cruise gratuities for sailings on or after October 17, 2022.

These new prices are as follows:

$17.50 per person, per day for Inside, Ocean View, and Veranda staterooms
$18 per person, per day for Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms
$21 per person, per day for guests of The Retreat

However, Celebrity Cruises also has a newer pricing structure. The All Included cruise fare now incorporates some basic amenities to provide a more all-inclusive feel. Gratuities is one of these amenities.

With the All Included pricing, guests receive tips, basic Wi-Fi, and the Classic Drink Package as part of their cruise fare.

A 20% gratuity will still be automatically added to all beverages, mini bar purchases, spa and salon services. Though, guests will not pay gratuity for drinks that are part of the complimentary classic beverage package.

Princess Cruise Gratuities

On Princess Cruises, the crew appreciation will cost more for voyages departing after February 20, 2023.

Currently, the gratuity is $16.50 per guest for suites and $15.50 per guest for mini-suites. A $14.50 cruise gratuity is charged for guests (including children) staying in all other staterooms.

The new increases are as follows:

Interior, Oceanview, and Balcony $16
Mini-Suite and Reserve Collection $17

Similar to Celebrity Cruises, Princess cruises offers more all-inclusive packages that include crew appreciation . If guests upgrade to the Princess Plus or Princess Premier Packages, they will not pay any additional gratuities once onboard the ship.

However, an 18% service charge still applies to bar charges, dining room wine accounts, and Lotus Spa services.

Gratuities on Holland America

For all sailings departing prior to February 1, 2023 as well as the 2023 Grand World Voyage and the 2023 Grand South America Antarctica Voyage, the daily Hotel Service Charge is $15.50 per guest, per day for non-suite staterooms. This fee is $17 per guest, per day for suite guests.

However, this price is increasing for sailings departing on or after February 1, 2023. The new crew appreciation prices are as follows:

$16 per guest, per day for non-suite stateroom guests
$17.50 per guest, per day for suite guests

An 18% Bar Service Charge is automatically added to bar charges and Dining Room wine purchases. Again, this is on top of the daily service charges.

Holland America Line Rotterdam Restaurant Menus and Dining Guide

Gratuities on MSC Cruises

For Bahamas and Caribbean sailings with MSC Cruises, cruise gratuities are as follows:

The charge for adults 12 and over is $14.50
For children 2-12 years old, the charge is $7.50
For kids under 2 years old, there is no charge

A 15% Bar Service Charge also applies to all purchases on MSC Cruises as well.

The gratuities for other destinations do vary. If you are cruising to another destination with MSC, you will want to visit the cruise line’s website .

Disney Cruise Gratuities

On Disney Cruise Line , the recommended cruise gratuity is $14.50 per night, per guest, including infants and children.

Guests staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites are recommended a gratuity amount of $15.50 per night.

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs.

Disney Wish Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah Review

Viking Ocean Cruise Gratuities

While considered a luxury brand, Viking is one of the few high-end cruise lines that does charge a daily guest gratuity . All guests will need to pay a hotel and dining charge of $17 per day regardless of stateroom category.

Further, a 15% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs.

This same fee applies to Viking Expedition as well. However, Viking River service charges do vary by destination.

Cruise Gratuities on Virgin Voyages

Sailors looking to voyage with this adult only cruise line will be happy to know that gratuities are part of the cruise fare. On Virgin Voyages , there are no daily gratuities added to your shipboard account. Now, that’s a perk!

Further, there are no additional service charges on other items like beverages or spa services.

Cruise Gratuities on Margaritaville at Sea

On the new Margaritaville at Sea cruise line , guests can expect to pay gratuities during their 2-night sailing. These fees are $14.95 per person, per night for interior and ocean view staterooms and $19.95 for suites.

Guests are also charged up to $12 per person, per day for a fuel charge.

Additionally, an 18% service charge is added to all bar purchases.

Margaritaville at Sea Inaugural Cruise Review

Windstar Cruise Gratuities

Guests sailing on Windstar Cruises should expect to pay cruise gratuities as well. This hotel service charge is $16 per passenger, per day and is automatically added to each guest’s onboard account.

Of note, Windstar Cruises also has an option for an all-inclusive package . This package includes WiFi, drinks, and gratuities.

An 18% Beverage Service Charge still applies.

Oceania Cruise Gratuities

Guests cruising with Oceania should also budget for these additional service charges based on their stateroom category. The fees are as follows:

For guests in standard staterooms, gratuities are $18 per guest, per day
For guests in Penthouse, Oceania, Vista, or Owner’s Suites where Butler Service is provided, gratuities are $23 per guest, per day

In addition, a 20% service gratuity is automatically added to all beverage purchases, spa services, and dinner at La Reserve.

Other Luxury Cruise Lines

Other luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent include all gratuities except on spa services.

Do you have to pay gratuities on cruise?

Can you opt out of gratuities on a cruise? Not really.

Cruise gratuities are mandatory, in loosely defined terms. Most cruise lines do apply these charges automatically. However, these charges can be modified or removed by guests while on the ship in the event that they did not receive satisfactory service.

Keep in mind that gratuities will be deemed undisputed unless a request to modify is received prior to disembarking the ship.

While cruise gratuities can be modified or removed, we never recommend that cruisers do so. This is such a small and well-deserved token of appreciation to all the hard-working crew onboard the ship. In fact, many cruisers choose to tip above and beyond this rate.

How do you get out of paying gratuities on a cruise?

You might be wondering how you can get out of paying these cruise service charges. Well, there is one big way you can avoid paying them. That is to keep an eye on your cruise planner and email for special promotions.

Cruise lines will often run sales, and travel agents will often offer perks, that may include free gratuities for booking a cruise. Other perks may include onboard credit, free drink packages, free specialty dining, and so on.

Should I tip extra on a cruise?

On all cruise lines, additional gratuities may be added at your discretion. Beyond the standard service charges put forth by the cruise line, we always tip above and beyond for excellent service.

Generally speaking, we provide additional monetary compensation at the end of the cruise to our stateroom attendant and our dining room waitstaff.

Keep in mind that the cruise line assigned gratuities do not include all staff members. These charges do not go towards individuals like bar servers, porters, shore excursion guides, casino staff, or youth staff.

So, you should consider providing tips to these crew members for great service. We generally tip our favorite bartenders, staff at the onboard coffee shop, tour guides, bus drivers, and so on.

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What are your thoughts on cruise gratuities and service charges? Do you tip beyond these required amounts? How you do like to reward the onboard staff for providing you a memorable cruise vacation?

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MSC Cruises Gratuity Guide: Understanding Your Costs

When you set sail with MSC Cruises, understanding gratuities is an essential part of planning your budget. In this article, you'll learn the daily rates per person based on age, stateroom type, and itinerary.

On MSC Cruises, gratuities vary by destination and are automatically added to guests' onboard accounts. For the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and UAE cruises, the daily amount is $14 per adult and $7 per child.

Tipping Customs

Gratuities on MSC Cruises are automatic and calculated per person, per day.
Service charges vary by destination and accommodations and can be prepaid or settled onboard.
Guests can adjust gratuity amounts by contacting onboard guest services if needed.

Understanding msc gratuity rates, mandatory versus discretionary gratuities, distribution of gratuities, prepaying versus paying onboard, additional tipping for exceptional service, gratuities on msc cruises around the world, unique msc gratuities and charges, how to manage gratuities with msc cruise options.

When booking a cruise with MSC, it's important to understand the gratuity rates that will be added to your bill. These rates are per person, per day, and vary by region and cabin type.

Daily Gratuity Rates

MSC charges a daily gratuity rate to ensure that the service staff who make your cruise enjoyable are properly compensated. The gratuities are charged per person for each night of your cruise.

Adults (12 and over): Typically $14.50 per night
Children (2-12): Usually $7.25 per night
No gratuities are charged for kids under 2 years old

Service Charges by Region

Gratuity rates can vary depending on the destination of your cruise. Here's a simplified breakdown:

Adults: $14.50 per night
Children: $7.25 per night
Adults: Euro 10 per night
Children: Euro 5 per night

Note that these rates are subject to change, so it's best to check with MSC Gratuities for the most current information.

Gratuities for Different Cabin Types

Your cabin type can also affect the amount of gratuity you will pay.

Standard cabins and Balcony rooms : Follow the standard gratuity rates per person, per day.
Suites : Guests may be subject to higher gratuity rates, which compensate for a broader range of services.

To learn about how service charges are managed, visit MSC's Service Charge Information. Remember, these gratuities ensure that the service team aboard your cruise is well taken care of, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free vacation.

When cruising with MSC, you'll encounter both mandatory and discretionary gratuities, which are different in terms of their application and your ability to control them.

Automatic Gratuity Policy

MSC Cruises implements an automatic gratuity policy to ensure that all crew members who contribute to your experience are fairly compensated. These gratuities are added to your onboard account on a daily basis.

Adults (12 and older): $14.50 per night
Children (2-12 years old): $7.25 per night
Children under 2: No service charge

These charges are considered mandatory, as they're automatically added for the convenience of guests. The amounts vary based on the region of your cruise.

Removing Gratuity Charges

While the gratuities are automatic, you do have the discretion to remove or adjust these charges if the service does not meet your expectations. You would need to:

Visit the Guest Services desk onboard.
Discuss your concerns with a representative.
Request for gratuities to be removed or adjusted.

Be aware that this action is taken at your discretion, and it's essential to consider the impact on the crew members who are dedicated to providing you with excellent service throughout your cruise.

In navigating the waters of MSC gratuities, it's essential to understand how your tips are allocated. Your contributions directly impact the hard-working crew members who ensure a pleasant journey.

How Gratuities are Shared

Gratuities on MSC cruises are distributed among the service staff . This includes not only those you may see frequently, such as your cabin stewards and dining staff, but also behind-the-scenes personnel. The distribution process is designed to ensure that both visible and occult crew members are fairly rewarded for their service.

Dining Staff: A portion is shared with the waitstaff in the dining areas.
Cabin Stewards: Your room attendants receive a share for their daily efforts.
Bartenders: Those who serve your drinks at the ship's bars are also included.
Other Support Staff: Many other staff members who contribute to the operation and cleanliness of the ship benefit from gratuities.

Rewarding Individual Crew Members

If you receive exemplary service from a specific crew member, MSC allows you to reward them directly. This is in addition to the overall gratuities that are automatically added to your bill. You can provide an extra tip to recognize individual efforts, ensuring those who go above and beyond are personally acknowledged.

Individual Efforts Recognized: Exceptional service can be rewarded with an additional tip.
Direct Contribution: If you choose, you may hand a cash tip directly to the individual.

The gratuities you provide contribute to the livelihoods of multiple staff members, making your cruise experience enjoyable and memorable.

Choosing between prepaying gratuities and settling them onboard is an important part of your cruise planning process. This choice can affect your cruise budget and the convenience of managing your expenses.

Advantages of Prepaid Gratuities

Budgeting : When you prepay, you know exactly how much you'll spend on gratuities. This helps in planning your cruise budget before departure.
Convenience : Prepaying means one less thing to think about during your holiday. Your final bill will be lower since gratuities are already taken care of.
Rate Lock : Prepaying gratuities ensures that you lock in the current rate, protecting you from any potential increases in the gratuity rates.

Onboard Gratuity Payments

Flexibility : Paying onboard allows you to modify gratuity amounts based on the service you receive.
Payment Timing : If you prefer to settle your expenses at one time, paying gratuities on your final bill could be more convenient for you.

While MSC Cruises includes a mandatory service charge for all guests, you may find moments when you want to tip above the set rates to show appreciation for exceptional service.

When to Tip Above the Set Rates

Above and Beyond : If a crew member or guest relations manager goes beyond their duties to enhance your cruising experience, additional tipping is an impactful way to reward their dedication.

Specialty Restaurants : Exquisite dining experiences that exceed the highest quality standards might prompt you to consider extra gratuities for the attentive staff.

Examples of Exceptional Service

Personalized Attention : If service personnel remember your preferences and tailor their service to your tastes, this personalized attention is a hallmark of exemplary service.
Unique Requests : Fulfilling special requests that add significant value to your voyage demonstrate a commitment worth acknowledging with an additional tip.

Gratuities on MSC cruises vary by region and itinerary, influencing how much you'll set aside for tips during your cruise. These service charges are a way to reward the crew for their excellent service.

Gratuities on Different Itineraries

Asia: Expect service charges to reflect the local hospitality standards, where gratuities are often lower than Western expectations.
South America: Your gratuities may be comparable to European rates but check for seasonal variations.
USA: Sailing from American ports often means a daily rate per person will be added to your bill.
Northern Europe: Rates can align with broader European standards, possibly influenced by regional trends.

Region-Specific Gratuity Norms

Bahamas: When departing from nearby American ports, the gratuity rates are likely consistent with those set for U.S. itineraries.
China: Service charges here could differ, as tipping practices in East Asia are not as prevalent as in the West.
Japan: Japanese cruises might reflect local customs, which traditionally do not include tipping.
South Africa Cruises: While less common, if gratuities apply, they'll potentially be in line with the emerging cruise market standards of the region.

For a well-rounded understanding of gratuities on cruises, it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the destination-specific tipping procedures which can greatly enhance your experience and show appreciation toward the ship's diligent crew.

MSC Cruises has specific gratuity charges that contribute to the overall cruise experience. These service charges are standardized across their fleet and directly support the crew for the services provided.

Hotel Service Charge

The hotel service charge is a daily fee added to your account, covering the hospitality services you receive on board. This gratuity ensures that all staff, from stewards to dining room personnel, are recognized for their work.

No charge for children under 2 years old

Bar and Drink Package Service Charges

When purchasing drinks or opting for drink packages, you'll incur a bar service charge. This is an automatic addition to the price of your drink package or individual beverage, ensuring that bar staff are fairly compensated for their service.

Beverage purchases: 15% service charge added
Drink packages: Service charge included in the pre-paid package price

MSC Gratuities (Tips/Service Charge): Full Guide to Cost & How They ...

Managing gratuities on an MSC Cruise is straightforward and can be tailored to your individual needs. Here are key methods to handle service charges, particularly for families, through various promotions, and within MSC's unique programs.

Gratuities for Families and Children

For families cruising with MSC, gratuities are simplified. Children under 2 years old are not subject to service charges.

Children (2-12 years old) : Typically pay half the adult rate.

These rates may vary slightly based on the cruise region. It's a cost-saving aspect for families but remember to confirm the specific amounts during or after your booking process.

Managing Gratuities with Cruise Promotions

MSC Cruises occasionally offers promotions where gratuities can be prepaid or included in the fare. This can be particularly convenient for you when budgeting:

Bella Experience : Gratuities not included, standard rates apply.
Fantastica Experience : May come with promotional deals that include gratuities.

Check for current promotions when you manage your booking to take advantage of any available offers.

MSC Specific Programs and Gratuity Policies

Gratuities on MSC Cruises can also depend on the specific program you choose. The MSC Grand Voyage, for example, may have different gratuity policies compared to standard cruises.

MSC Grand Voyage : Policies can vary, so it's important to review the terms when selecting this option.

Your cruise fare may include service charges if you opt for certain fare types. Always review the MSC specific programs to understand the gratuity policies that will apply to your trip.

Service Charges / Gratuities

IMPORTANT NOTE : please be informed that as of December 12th, 2022, our updated and automatic Hotel Service Charge per person per day will be outlined as in the table below.

Guests with existing bookings made before December 12th 2022, will not be impacted by this change regardless if the Hotel Service Charges are prepaid or collectable on board at the time of the departure

For any additional information, please consult the below grids.

Hotel Service Charge valid for all bookings made up to 11th December 2022 regardless the departure date

Starting on 1 April 2021 – for all new reservations on Winter 2021-22 departures and onwards – Hotel Service Charges will become mandatory as an integral part of the total cruise price. The charge per person per night can be paid onboard at the end of the cruise or prepaid at the time of booking. The Hotel Service charges do not apply to children under 2 years of age old at the time of the cruise departure date.

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings starting from 12th December 2022 for all departures

Corporate info, travel info, social links.

Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

How much to tip on a cruise is a question that trips up many first-timers. That's because some cruise lines tack daily service fees onto passenger bills — yet many travelers still hand out additional cash gratuities, either as a matter of course or for exemplary service.

The extra cost of the automatic gratuity charges can be a shock to first-time cruisers. At some lines, these charges run as high as $25 per day. And, unlike the typical service fee or resort fee found at a land resort, they are not per room. They are per person .

At some big lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line , it's not uncommon for a family of four staying in a single cabin to see more than $70 a day in service fees added to their bills. On a typical seven-night cruise, that's around $500 in fees.

That's before you add in any additional tips you wish to give to your room service or favorite bartender or automatic gratuities tacked on to bar, restaurant and spa bills.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, not all lines have service fees that high. Some don't charge a service fee at all. In many cases, the service charges are adjustable.

Tipping on a cruise does not have to be complicated, but you need to understand the big picture to budget for your vacation appropriately. Read on to learn all about cruise ship tipping culture and how much you'll need to tip on your next cruise, based on which cruise line you're sailing.

Tipping on a cruise ship: The big picture

Most of the biggest cruise lines automatically add some type of service or gratuity fee onto passenger bills. Lines with such charges include both of the two giants of the cruise business, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line , as well as the next three biggest lines MSC Cruises , Norwegian and Princess Cruises .

That said, the total number of lines with a service fee has been shrinking over the years. Many smaller and higher-end cruise operators are folding tips and gratuities into their base fares.

Lines that now cover gratuities in their fares include Azamara , Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn , SeaDream Yacht Club , Silversea Cruises and Virgin Voyages .

For lines that do have them, service and gratuity charges are touted as a convenient alternative to the practice of cash tipping on cruise ships — something that once was common.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise lines say they pass the money collected from service charges to the shipboard crew. They say the money is shared not just with front-of-house crew, such as room attendants and waitstaff, but also with behind-the-scenes workers. In that sense, the current system is more equitable than the old system of cash tipping, which favored certain workers, lines say.

Still, some critics see the charges as a sneaky way for cruise lines to make their fares appear lower than they really are. In this line of thinking, lines with these charges are essentially breaking out a good chunk of onboard labor costs as a separate line item on your bill.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

How service charges are levied

At most lines, you can pay your service charges before sailing (at the same time you pay your cruise fare). Alternatively, you can have the charges added to your room bill on board.

The big advantage to paying cruise tips in advance is that you lock in the current rate. If your line raises the rate between the time you pay and the time you sail, you won't pay more.

Some people also like to pay their service charges in advance for budgeting purposes. It'll be one less thing on your final bill at the end of the cruise.

If you prefer to pay for tips once you're on board your cruise, you'll generally find that the gratuities automatically appear on your bill. You don't have to do anything.

That said, if you want to, you can often adjust the charges (either up or down) while you're on board by visiting the guest relations desk. If you are adjusting a gratuity charge downward, expect to be asked about the reasons behind the adjustment. The guest relations staff will want to know if you've experienced particular service issues.

If you leave the service charge on your room bill, you are not expected to leave additional cruise tips for your room attendant or waiters. That's the whole point of the service charge.

Similarly, if you're on a higher-end ship that lists gratuities as being included in the fare, that means just what it says. You don't have to tip on these cruises because the line is already paying gratuities to the staff on your behalf. Additional cash gifts are not expected.

Still, some people do leave a little extra for crew members who go above and beyond. Others tip their room service or waitstaff at their favorite bar, either early in the cruise in the hope of getting better service or at the end to thank them for enhancing the vacation experience. How much to tip extra on a cruise is entirely up to you because it is in no way required.

Related: 10 times you do not need to tip on a cruise

Included cruise tips as a booking perk

If you dislike tipping on cruise ships but can't afford to sail on an all-inclusive line, look for promotions when cruise lines with service charges throw in free gratuities as a booking incentive.

For instance, in recent years, Norwegian often ran Free at Sea promotions that included free crew tips in addition to free shipboard Wi-Fi and a free drinks package . The line hasn't been doing that as much lately, but these offers often come back at times when brands need to drum up more business.

Additionally, several major lines in the past couple of years have begun offering bundle pricing to customers who pay for cruise tips, Wi-Fi charges and an onboard drinks package all at once in advance of sailing, potentially at a discount.

Princess, for example, has added a Princess Plus plan as a booking option. It gives passengers prepaid gratuities (Princess calls these "crew appreciation" fees), a single-device Wi-Fi plan and a basic beverage package for a single bundled price of $60 per person, per day.

Don't worry: When lines offer such deals, it doesn't mean the crew will receive fewer tips the week you cruise. The lines that offer these deals say they'll pay a normal gratuity to the crew on your behalf.

Related: The best cruise booking perks — and which ones are actually free

Additional cruise ship tipping

Daily service charges are not the only cruise tips you will pay on board. Many cruise lines will tack an automatic gratuity charge onto the bill for extra-fee drinks, restaurant meals and spa treatments.

The included tip amount varies by cruise line but is typically 15% to 20% of the bill. Be warned that the receipt often includes a line for an additional gratuity, even when one is automatically added. This can trick many cruisers into tipping twice. Never feel pressured to add an extra tip when you've already paid one.

Note that if you purchase a dining or beverage package, most cruise lines will charge you gratuities based on a percentage of the package price. If you get one of these packages for free as a booking perk, as with Norwegian Cruise Line's Free at Sea promotion, you might still be required to pay the gratuities on the free perk.

For example, Norwegian offers a complimentary Open Bar drinks package for travelers who book its Free at Sea promotion. The cost of that package is typically $109 per person, per day. The mandatory 20% gratuity comes out to nearly $22 per day. That means two people sharing a room on a seven-night cruise would pay $308 in tips for an otherwise free drinks package — on top of their daily service charge fees.

Cruisers should also bring cash to tip the porters who bring their bags onto the ship (usually $2 per bag), as well as tour guides in port ($5 to $10 per person for half-day tours, $10 to $20 for full-day excursions and $2 for non-guide drivers). Piano bar regulars know that a cash tip will increase the chances of the pianist choosing and performing your song request.

How much should you tip on each cruise line?

If you're wondering how much you should tip on the specific cruise line you're considering or have already booked, we've compiled that information here. Below is a line-by-line look at policies for automatic gratuity charges (called service charges or "crew appreciation" charges at some lines). The rates listed are per person, per day. They were accurate as of the publishing of this story.

Remember that all additional tipping is at your discretion. Any amount is fine and will be appreciated by the hard-working crew.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Automatic gratuity charge : None.
Details : Gratuities for the crew are not included in the fare and are at the discretion of travelers.
Details : Gratuities for the crew are included in the fare. One area of exception: An 18% gratuity is added to bills for spa services.

Carnival Cruise Line

Automatic gratuity charge : $16 to $18 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $16. Those in suites pay $18. Children younger than 2 are exempt from the charges. Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills, the cover charges for the Chef's Table and Bonsai Teppanyaki restaurants and the a la carte fee at Bonsai Sushi, Emeril's Bistro, Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse and Seafood Shack.

Related: Cruise giant Carnival joins Princess, Norwegian in sharply hiking service fees

Celebrity Cruises

Automatic gratuity charge : $18 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $18. Passengers in Concierge Class pay $18.50 and, for bookings made after Oct. 4, 2023, passengers in AquaClass cabins also pay $18.50 (for AquaClass bookings made before that date, there is no charge for gratuities). For bookings made after Oct. 4, 2023, passengers in The Retreat suites pay $23 (for The Retreat bookings made before that date, there is no charge for gratuities). Note that passengers who book a Celebrity cabin under the line's pricier All Included rate plan also do not pay gratuity charges. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is added when a passenger orders a drink that's not included in the line's All-Included rate plan, as well as when purchasing a minibar item. An 18% gratuity will be added for spa and salon services.

Celestyal Cruises

Details : Gratuities for crew and bar staff are included in the fare.

Costa Cruises

Automatic gratuity charge : $12.50 to $17.50 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers on ships operating on the U.S. dollar generally pay $12.50. Ships operating on the euro have an 11 euro charge ($11.60 at current exchange rates). On cruises departing from China, Japan and Singapore, the charges range from $13.50 to $17.50, depending on the cabin category. Passengers younger than 4 are exempt from the charges. Gratuities for children between 4 and 14 (up to 12 on cruises departing from Japan, China and Singapore) are half the adult rate. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is added to beverage purchases.

Cunard Line

Automatic gratuity charge : $14.50 to $16.50 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $14.50. Passengers in Grill Class suites pay $16.50. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is added to bar, wine and salon bills.

Disney Cruise Line

Details : While Disney doesn't add an automatic gratuity charge, it suggests that passengers staying in most cabins pay $14.50 per day in total when tipping various dining staff and room attendants. The suggested amount for passengers staying in concierge cabins and suites is $15.50. Passengers can prepay the amount in advance or on board. Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bar, beverage, wine and deck service bills, and an 18% gratuity is added to bills for spa services.

Holland America Line

Automatic gratuity charge : $17 to $19.00 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $17 for what the line now calls a "crew appreciation" charge. Passengers staying in suites pay $19.00. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills and dining room wine purchases.

Related: Is this love? Holland America chooses Valentine's Day for service charge price hike

Lindblad Expeditions

Details : Gratuities are included in the fare for passengers on National Geographic Explorer, National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Orion. On other ships, gratuities are at the passenger's discretion.

MSC Cruises

Automatic gratuity charge : about $13 (12 euros) to $16.
Details : Gratuity charges are $16 on voyages from and to the U.S., with the exception of sailings with pricing in euros, which have a gratuity charge of 12 euros ($12.66 at current exchange rates). Gratuities for children between 2 and 11 are half the adult rate on most cruises. Gratuities are not charged for children younger than 2.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Automatic service charge : $20 to $25 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $20. Those in suites or The Haven pay $25. Passengers younger than 3 are exempt from the charges. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is added to bills at bars, extra-charge specialty restaurants and ship spas. Cruises to Hawaii will also pay a 4.275% prepaid service charge called a general excise tax.

Oceania Cruises

Automatic gratuity charge : $18 to $23 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers staying in most cabins pay $18. Passengers in top suites with butler service pay $23. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is added to bills at bars, the extra-charge La Reserve restaurant and at ship spas.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Details : Gratuities are included in the fare.
Details : Gratuities are included in the fare. However, passengers can give more at their discretion; Ponant recommends $10 to $12 per passenger, per day.

Princess Cruises

Details : Passengers in most cabins pay $16 for what the line now calls a "crew appreciation" charge . Passengers in mini-suites pay $17, while those in bigger suites pay $18. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills, dining room wine purchases and Lotus Spa services.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal caribbean.

Automatic gratuity charge : $18 to $20.50 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers staying in most cabins, including junior suites, pay $18 per day. Passengers in higher-level suites pay $20.50. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bills at bars, minibars, salons and spas.

Related: Royal Caribbean quietly raises automatic gratuity charges

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Seadream yacht club, silversea cruises.

Details : Gratuities are included in the fare, except for beauty salon and spa treatments.

Star Clippers

Details : The line recommends that passengers pay 8 euros ($8.44 at current exchange rates) per day in gratuities, but the payment is at the passenger's discretion. There is a 15% gratuity added for bar purchases.

UnCruise Adventures

Details : UnCruise recommends that passengers pay $35 per person, per day in gratuities, but the payment is at the passenger's discretion.
Automatic gratuity charge : $17 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers pay $17 in gratuities for all cabin types. Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bar bills.

Virgin Voyages

Windstar cruises.

Automatic gratuity charge : $16 per person, per day.
Details : Passengers pay a "hotel service charge" of $16 for all cabin types. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar, beverage, wine and deck service bills. Alternately, Windstar cruisers can upgrade their bookings with an all-in package that includes unlimited beverages, Wi-Fi and the hotel service charge for $89 per person, per day.

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Cruise and Hotels
MSC Cruises
Unveiling MSC Cruises Tipping Policy: A Complete Guide for Passengers

Unveiling MSC Cruises Tipping Policy: A Complete Guide for Passengers

Cruising with MSC Cruises offers an exceptional vacation experience, where passengers can relax and indulge in luxurious amenities while exploring breathtaking destinations. However, one question that often arises for passengers is the tipping policy onboard. To ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip, it is crucial to understand the tipping guidelines and practices.

In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil MSC Cruises’ tipping policy, providing you with all the essential information you need to know before embarking on your dream voyage. From understanding the automatic gratuity charges to knowing when and how to tip your onboard staff, we will cover it all. So, let’s dive into the details and discover everything you need to know about MSC Cruises’ tipping policy.

To make it easier for you to navigate through the guide, here are the key points we will cover:

Throughout this guide, we will provide you with reliable information sourced from MSC Cruises’ official website and trusted cruising resources. By the end, you will be equipped with a complete understanding of MSC Cruises’ tipping policy, allowing you to navigate your journey with confidence and ensure a rewarding experience for both you and the dedicated onboard staff. So, let’s begin our exploration of MSC Cruises’ tipping policy.

Sources: – [MSC Cruises Official Website](https://www.msccruisesusa.com/en-us/Cruise-Deals/Enjoy-Great-Value.aspx) – [Cruise Critic – Tipping on a Cruise: A Complete Guide](https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?

How does tipping work on MSC?

Tipping on MSC Cruises is a straightforward process that allows passengers to show appreciation for exceptional service. Unlike some other cruise lines, MSC does not automatically add gratuities to guests’ bills. Instead, they offer a daily service charge that is distributed among the crew members. The amount is modest, and passengers have the flexibility to adjust it based on their satisfaction. Additionally, passengers can choose to give individual tips to specific staff members who have gone above and beyond. Overall, MSC Cruises aims to provide a hassle-free tipping experience while ensuring that the hardworking crew members are properly recognized for their efforts. For more detailed information on MSC Cruises’ tipping policy, please refer to the complete guide here: [link to Unveiling MSC Cruises Tipping Policy: A Complete Guide for Passengers].

Are MSC gratuities mandatory?

MSC gratuities are not mandatory but are automatically added to passengers’ onboard accounts as a service charge. However, passengers have the option to adjust or remove these charges if they wish to do so. The amount of gratuities varies depending on the cabin category and cruise duration. It is important to note that these charges contribute to the salaries of the onboard staff, including cabin stewards, waiters, and other service providers. For a detailed breakdown of MSC Cruises tipping policy and tips on how to navigate it, refer to the comprehensive guide provided by MSC Cruises themselves: Unveiling MSC Cruises Tipping Policy: A Complete Guide for Passengers.

Do you need to tip on MSC?

Tipping on MSC Cruises is a common practice, but the cruise line has a unique approach to gratuities. MSC Cruises includes a mandatory service charge, or “hotel service charge,” in the cruise fare, which covers tipping for the crew. However, passengers have the option to adjust or remove this charge if they wish. Additionally, guests are encouraged to tip individually for exceptional service. It is important to consider the cultural differences in tipping practices and to be aware of the guidelines provided by MSC Cruises to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience onboard. For more detailed information and insights, refer to the complete guide on MSC Cruises Tipping Policy.

How much extra should I tip my room steward on a cruise?

When it comes to tipping your room steward on an MSC cruise, it’s important to know the guidelines. MSC Cruises has a set tipping policy where a mandatory service charge is automatically added to your onboard account. This service charge covers gratuities for various staff members, including your room steward. The amount of the service charge varies depending on the length of your cruise and the destination. For a detailed breakdown of the tipping policy and how much you should expect to tip your room steward, check out this comprehensive guide on Unveiling MSC Cruises Tipping Policy: A Complete Guide for Passengers. It provides all the necessary information to ensure you’re informed and prepared for your cruise experience.

Msc gratuities 2023

When planning a cruise with MSC Cruises in 2023, it’s important to understand their tipping policy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. MSC Cruises operates on a “service charge” system, where gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account. The service charge covers the hard work and dedication of the crew members who provide exceptional service throughout your journey. The amount for the service charge may vary depending on the region and duration of the cruise. However, guests have the flexibility to adjust or remove the service charge if desired. It’s advisable to review MSC Cruises’ official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on tipping policies and guidelines. (Source: https://www.msccruisesusa.com/en-us/FAQs/On-board-experience/Tipping-policy.

In summary, understanding the tipping policy on MSC Cruises can greatly enhance your overall cruising experience. It is important to be aware of the guidelines and recommendations to ensure that you are adequately prepared and can budget accordingly for your trip. By adhering to the specified tipping amounts, you can show appreciation for the excellent service provided by the hardworking crew members onboard.

Remember, the suggested gratuity amounts are just that – suggestions. If you feel that a particular crew member has gone above and beyond in providing exceptional service, you are more than welcome to offer additional gratuities as a token of your appreciation. However, it is important to note that tipping on MSC Cruises is not mandatory, and the decision to tip ultimately rests with you.

By understanding the different tipping policies and options available, you can plan and budget for your cruise with ease. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific policies of the MSC Cruises ship you will be sailing on, as they may vary slightly from ship to ship.

To learn more about MSC Cruises’ tipping policy and other important aspects of cruising, you can refer to trusted sources such as Cruise Critic, a leading online resource for cruise information and reviews. They provide in-depth articles and forums discussing various cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, and can offer valuable insights and advice from experienced cruisers.

Additionally, the official MSC Cruises website is an excellent source of information, providing details on their tipping policy, onboard services, and frequently asked questions. Their website offers a comprehensive overview of what to expect when it comes to tipping and can help answer any specific questions you may have.

As with any aspect of cruising, it is always a good idea to stay informed and prepared. By understanding and adhering to MSC Cruises’ tipping policy, you can contribute to a positive and enjoyable cruising experience for both yourself and the hardworking crew members who strive to make your trip special.

So, whether you are a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, being aware of MSC Cruises’ tipping policy is an essential part of planning and enjoying your cruise. By following the guidelines and recommendations provided, you can ensure that your cruising experience is smooth, enjoyable, and free from any potential confusion or misunderstandings.

Now that you have a complete guide to MSC Cruises’ tipping policy, you can embark on your next cruise adventure fully prepared and knowledgeable. Bon voyage!

Complete Guide to Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024

Whether your cruise line calls them daily service fees, cruise ship gratuities or crew appreciation, it’s simply tipping on a cruise. Nearly every cruise line has a name for these automatically-added service fees.

Most cruise lines add daily gratuity fees directly to your onboard account throughout your cruise. Plus, different onboard experiences, from using your stateroom mini-bar to dining in a specialty restaurant , have an added fee.

We’ve listed each cruise line’s per-person daily gratuity. We break down tipping on a cruise to what you’ll pay depending on your stateroom category, plus any additional service fees.

Someone to give an extra gratuity? Cruise ship bartender at Alchemy Bar on Carnival.

What are Daily Cruise Ship Gratuities?

Every cruise line has a recommended amount that each guest should pay to the crew. Holland America calls it a “Daily Service Fee.” Princess calls it “Crew Appreciation.” Basically, it’s a gratuity fee; how much you’ll pay for tips on a cruise ship.

Some cruise lines may call this a “Guest Services Fee” on your onboard account statement. While others simply add “Gratuity” to your onboard account.

Tipping on a Cruise Begins Before Sailaway

Savvy cruisers know that gratuities begin before you board your ship. Why? If you plan to drop off your larger pieces of luggage, be prepared to give the portside luggage handler a $2- $5 tip per bag. The amount can depend upon size, weight and amount of luggage.

If you’re a solo traveler and only have one large bag to check, a $5 tip is appropriate.

Consider this tip as baggage delivery insurance.

Ship doctor carrying my luggage. I didn't give him a cruise gratuity!

Should I Pre-Pay Cruise Gratuities?

If you want to get the daily cruise tipping fees out of the way before your cruise and avoid last-night sticker shock, I always suggest that you pre-pay gratuities.

Also, if you pre-pay your gratuities, and should the cruise line raise the cruise tip amount before you sail, you are “grandfathered-in” at the previous lower rate.

Don’t pre-pay gratuities and if there’s an increase, you’ll pay a bit more at the end of your cruise. For one person, it’s not too bad. If you’re paying for a family, it could be a very costly added expense.

Average Daily Cruise Line Gratuity

Roughly speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $11.50 – $20.00 per passenger per day for onboard gratuities. As mentioned, cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your onboard account.

Luxury lines like Azamara, Ponant, Regent, Silversea, Seabourn, Sea Dream, Virgin Voyages include gratuities in the cruise fare.

On cruise lines where gratuities are not included, you can monitor the charges on your shipboard bill either from the Front Desk or on your stateroom TV.

Sometimes cruise gratuities are only added at the very end of your cruise, too. Talk about sticker shock!

Cruise ship gratuities, like here aboard Wonder of the Seas, are not included in your base fare.

Cruise Line Gratuities for 2024

Here’s what you will pay per person per day for cruise ship gratuities/service fees/crew appreciation as of this writing.

CARNIVAL: $14.50 for Standard Staterooms; $16.50 for Suites. An 18% automatic charge is added to beverages at the bars, plus at Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki and Chef’s Table restaurants.

On April 1, 2023, Carnival raised its services fees to $16.00 per person per day for those in standard staterooms. Suite passengers now pay $18.00, an increase of $1.50 per day.

CELEBRITY: $17.50 for Standard Staterooms; $18.00 in Concierge and Aqua Class staterooms. Those booked in the Retreat do not pay a daily gratuity fee. If you purchase Celebrity’s All Included plan, the gratuity is included. But you’ll pay 20% fee if you order a drink that’s not in your beverage package (Classic or Premium). There’s an 18% charge for the spa and salon services.

COSTA: An automatic $12.50 service fee is added onto all U.S. departures. There’s €11 on Europe departures. 15% beverage charge. Kids 4-14yrs 50% less. Under 4, no charge.

CUNARD: With a name change from “gratuities” to “hotel and dining service charge”, you’ll pay $11.50 for Britannia Class staterooms (inside, oceanview and balcony). Then, $13.50 for those in the Grill Suites. Pay a 15% beverage charge and 12.5% for a visit to the salon or spa.

DISNEY: $14.50 is the suggested amount for those in standard staterooms. If you’re in a suite or concierge stateroom, Disney recommends a $15.50 gratuity fee. Disney doesn’t automatically post the fees to your account, however. 15% beverage charge and 18% for spa services

HOLLAND AMERICA: $16.00 for those in standard staterooms. Suite guests will pay an automatic $17.00 per person per day fee. Gratuity charges for beverage packages, drinks, dining room and specialty dining, and other non-included service fee amenities is 18%.

HURTIGRUTEN: $12.00 – Suggested amount on expedition cruises. Norwegian coastal cruises there is no gratuity fee.

MSC CRUISES: Valid until summer 2024: $14.00 for adults 12 years and older. $7.00 for children ages 2 – 11 years. Under 2 years old, no charge. This applies to Caribbean, Canada and USA cruise departures. Cruises abroad, gratuities are in euros and at a comparable exchange rate. MSC website also states they do not recommend tipping individual members of staff.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE: Book a Club Balcony Suite and below and pay $20.00 per person per day. Reside in The Haven or above Suites and it’s $25.00 pppd. For children under three years, there’s no daily fee. There’s also a 20% beverage charge with each non-included drink you order. On Hawai’i sailings, there’s a 4.275% pre-paid service charge GET tax.

OCEANIA: $16.00 for guests occupying standard staterooms. For Penthouse, Oceania, Vista or Owner’s Suites with Butler Service, gratuities of $23.00 per guest, per day will be added. An 18% service gratuity is automatically added to all beverage purchases, spa services and dinner at La Reserve.

PRINCESS: Now called “Crew Appreciation” the daily fee is as follows: inside, oceanview or balcony staterooms are $16.00. Mini-Suite and Reserve Collection staterooms are $17.00. Book a suite and you’ll pay $18.00 pppd. There’s also a “service charge” of 17% for specialty dining that’s included in the cover charge. You’ll pay 18% for individual drinks and drink packages, corkage fee and spa services.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN: Royal Caribbean automatic gratuity rates are $16.00 per person, per day for guests in non-suite staterooms. Book a suite and pay $18.50. Gratuities will be applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis. There’s also an 18% charge for beverages, mini-bar items, and salon and salon purchases.

VIKING OCEAN CRUISES : Simple here. $15.00 per day for all staterooms and a 15% beverage charge.

Queen Mary 2 front desk staff can answer any cruise ship tipping questions.

Should You Tip the Room Service Delivery Person?

Here’s another category that needs addressing; room service delivery fees.

Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian automatically add a room service delivery fee . Sometimes it depends on what you order.

You can still directly offer a tip to your delivery person. He or she will appreciate it.

I always suggest to bring $1 and $5 bills from home. This way, you’re ready to personally hand it to the room service delivery person.

Having several small bills is very handy, especially for early morning breakfast delivery. You don’t have to fumble around to find a tip. $2.00 to $5.00 is appropriate, depending on the food or how many meals ordered.

Who Gets a Share of the Gratuities?

Depending upon your cruise line and accommodation category, the amounts of who gets what may vary by a few dollars. But this should give you an idea as to where the cruise ship tips go and how it’s divvied up at the end.

For this example, the amounts listed below are for standard (non-suite) staterooms, may vary by a dollar or so and subject to change every couple of years.

Also, these amounts will differ because the cruise lines stress that a portion of the service fees also goes to many crew members who work behind the scenes and/or towards a shared crew incidentals/emergency fund.

The top tier of crew recipients, however, are the waiters and stateroom attendants. Next, are the assistant waiters and staterooms attendants. The head waiter may or may not receive a cut in the share.

Those hard-working crew members behind the scenes that you never see will get a small piece of the pie, too.

Extra tipping on a cruise ship is something you can decide to do.

Cruise Tips for Those Not on the Automatic Gratuity List

Some onboard services aren’t subject to automatically-included gratuities. Since these are people that you may interact with on a daily basis, it’s nice to add them to your gratuity list.

Childcare provider: At your discretion, similar to your babysitter at home.
Bartender: Plan to frequent the same bar throughout your cruise? Give your new favorite bartender a $10 – $20 upfront tip. If you’ve had excellent service, another tip at the end of the cruise is also appreciated.
Wine sommelier: Based on their involvement, $10 or $20 at the end of the cruise is appropriate. Some cruise lines have done away with a sommelier and your waiter is responsible for keeping track of your wine bottles. Tip accordingly.
Shore excursion guide: $2.00 – $5.00. Some passengers base their shore excursion tip on 10%-20% per person based on the cost of the tour.
Shore excursion motor coach driver: $1.00 – $2.00, especially in Europe.
Spa and Salon services: The spa will automatically add a 15% – 20% gratuity. Is there a need to tip your service provider? It’s up to you.

Tipping After Your Cruise

After the cruise, if you ask a porter to load your luggage and wheel it to the outdoors or motor coach, you’ll need to dip into your wallet one more time.

In many ports or after a transatlantic crossing, you’ll get through the customs and immigration line quicker if you ask a porter to help with your luggage.

If this was helpful, please PIN for others!

Pinterest pin with smiling bartender pouring a drink.

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Six tips for a memorable europe river cruise, 17 comments.

Hi Jackie, Thanks for your comment. I agree 100%!

Tipping is absolutely necessary on cruises. These people work for peanuts, and they work very hard with no days off for months. TIPS stands for To Insure Proper Service. When on land you tip at bars and restaurants, then why on the cruise ships should people question it and cheap out. When we get on the ship, we leave extra tip money in the safe. On the last night, we give the envelopes with cash in it to all the people that took such good care of us on our cruise. Be a good cruiser.

Hi Crissy, thank you for reading my article and for your question. Are you referring to the concierge that, for example, is in charge of a loyalty club lounge like the Royal Caribbean Diamond Plus or Pinnacle Club? On cruises where I’ve used the concierge’s services (for show or dinner reservations or help with shore excursions), I’ll usually give the concierge $20-$30 at the end of a seven-night cruise. On a luxury line, I would tip more, depending on how involved the person was with assisting me with reservations etc.

If you’re referring to your stateroom butler, the gratuity prices are set by the cruise line and of course you can always add to it for exemplary service.

I hope this is helpful info. Thank you again for reading the article and taking the time to ask your question. Happy cruising!

How much do you suggest tipping the suite concierges?

Hi Nick, That’s a great question and thank you for writing. Since this is your first time handling the financial ends of a cruise, I would suggest leaving the automatic gratuities on your accounts. It will make the cruise more seamless and you won’t have that last-minute scramble finding small bills to put into envelopes and then locating the people for whom the envelopes are intended. If someone goes above and beyond regular service, it’s perfectly fine to simply hand him or her an extra gratuity. This could be your room steward or bartender or waiter. Have a wonderful cruise and thank you again for writing. Sherry

I’m about to go on my first cruise with my girlfriend and not with my family. Prior to this cruise, I was never responsible for any of the “stateroom “ accounts since my father always took care of the monetary issues of the vacation. After reading the article and the responses I am confused as to whether or not to take the automatic gratuities taken off my account when I go on my cruise and just gave out envelopes at the end of my vacation. What do you think

Coworker used to work for Celebrity – they get NO SALARY from the cruise line, they rely on the gratuities. Removing the automatic gratuity and then not actually tipping at least that amount in cash is akin to participating in modern-day slavery ie expecting people to contentedly serve you for free.

Echoing Jeff’s comment about folk who stingily resent a few hundred dollars to the ones who need it most.

Hi Rachel, Very well written. Thank you for your comment. Sherry

Mandatory gratuities. I don’t know whether to characterize this as the third world corruption tax in action (being forced to pay civil servants, hospital nurses, etc. a bribe before they will do the job that they are hired and paid to do); or first world predatory capitalism in action. Pretty clearly the cruise lines have offloaded the responsibility for paying their employees a living wage (or any wage) directly onto passengers via mandatory gratuities. Why don’t they just call it “bribes” or “employee salaries” on the invoice instead of “mandatory gratuities.” It is ridiculous that on top of paying for a horrendously expensive cruise and shore excursions, you have to pay bribes/employee salaries in the form of mandatory gratuities. And in some cases you have to pay extra bribes in addition to, on top of, the mandatory gratuities. It all adds up to making a cruise a “once in a lifetime” experience rather than a repeat experience.

Hi Shannon, Congrats on your first cruise! For tipping, the amount may depend upon the cruise line and your stateroom category. After your automatic gratuities have been charged to your onboard account, you could hand your room steward $20-$30 (two people) in recognition for good service. I hope this helps. Happy cruising! Sherry

Hi Sherry, I’m going on my first cruise this summer. What’s an appropriate tip range for the room steward on a 7 day cruise?

Hi Jeff, Nicely said. I would like to think that a lot of the non-tippers or those who queue at the front desk on the last night to remove the service fee are from countries where tipping isn’t part of their culture. But not always so. Thanks for your comment. Sherry

I always wonder how someone can pay thousands for a cruise, airfare, and shore excursions and then be resentful of a few hundred dollars in tips for the lowest paid of those who make the trip enjoyable. The desire to stick it to the little people reminds me of the great quote from tax cheat, Leona Helmsley, who once said that, “Only the little people pay taxes”. The jury of” little people” had little trouble convicting her. The people who are put out with tips should find other ways to vacation.

I have my doubt where the cruise gratuities go to. You can never find out what a crew member earns or how much they actually receive out of gratuities paid and so that end I refuse to have gratuities added to my state room account. However the crew get do get paid to do a job and they knew the pay before they started, they get free food and board plus flights home and we as paying public have already paid for the service they provide. Assuming that all the gratuities are passed on. The ratio of crew member to passenger after removing the staff that are not part of the gratuity pot is about 4 or 5 to 1. On a 14 day cruise at $12.75 per person that adds up to $178.50 per person x 4 and the sum per fortnights holiday gives a bonus of $714 each. That for a 9 month contract would give them a bonus of around $13500 plus pay….Think about it

Found out that the cruise line does not give the gratuities to the crew , those tips are kept by the cruise line -ask a crew member, lies and rip off .

Hi Lisa, Thank you so much! I’m glad you liked the article and I hope it was helpful.

Thanks, Scott!

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Cruise Gratuities: Navigating Tipping & Service Charges

Doug Parker

September 2, 2023

You booked your cruise and are diving into the planning phase, but what about the cruise gratuities? One area that often prompts questions, even among veteran cruisers, is the topic of tipping and service charges. Let’s clarify what you need to know.

This cruise tipping guide breaks down what’s included in cruise gratuities and service charges, what to expect, and how to maximize your time and money.

Understanding Cruise Gratuities and Service Charges

It’s important to understand the tipping culture onboard. Most contemporary and premium cruise lines will automatically charge a daily gratuity to each passenger’s account for the crew’s service. In contrast, luxury cruise lines tend to take a more all-inclusive approach.

If you want to give extra appreciation for exceptional service, cash tips are appreciated and can be delivered directly to a waiter, porter, or stateroom steward.

Reviewing your cruise line’s tipping policy before boarding is essential, as guidelines vary on how much is expected daily for cruise gratuities.

rotterdam balcony cabin cruise gratuities

Remember that with the “pool system” (where tips are collected for multiple individuals or departments), crew members may not receive all of the automatic gratuities, so consider leaving additional cash tips for butler service, for example, or those who work behind the scenes, like the galley staff or laundry workers.

How gratuities are paid depends on the type of cruise line you are sailing. Luxury lines may include gratuities in the price of your cruise, while it’s a separate charge on mainstream cruise lines.

There is also a difference in gratuity rates depending on your accommodations. Gratuity rates for standard staterooms are often less than suites.

Why Tipping Matters on a Cruise Ship

The role of tips in compensating cruise ship staff must be considered.

Tipping can impact the quality of service you receive on a cruise ship and support hard-working crew members who rely heavily on tips for fair compensation and often support their families back home.

It’s important to note that many low-level crew members rely heavily on gratuities as they are usually paid lower wages than other industries.

Many cruisers argue that cruise gratuities should be included in the cost of the cruise fare to ensure equal payment. Virgin Voyages is one of the few mainstream cruise lines that include gratuities and service charges in their sailing cost.

How Cruise Lines Charge for Gratuities

Automatic gratuity charges are standard on cruise ships and typically range from $15 to $20 per person daily. These charges are automatically added to your onboard account and distributed among the guest-facing crew members who provide services during your trip and select behind-the-scenes employees.

If you prefer to opt-out or adjust these automatic gratuities, most cruise lines allow you to do so by simply visiting the guest services desk.

Cruise gratuity and service charge breakdown on standard cabins (September 2023):

Cruise gratuities are charged to guests, although the rate may be discounted for those 12 and under. Check with the cruise line for specifics during your initial research.

While automatic gratuity charges may be convenient for some passengers, others prefer alternative tipping onboard.

Cash tips can be given directly to crew members who provide exceptional services, such as room attendants or waitstaff.

However, cruise lines encourage paying the flat per-day gratuity rate to support all workers, including those working in the laundry room, washing dishes, or cleaning the ship late at night.

Additionally, some cruise lines offer prepaid packages that include daily cruise gratuities in the overall cost of your voyage. It’s important to consider which method works best for you and plan accordingly before setting sail on a cruise ship.

Who to Tip on a Cruise Ship

When tipping on a cruise ship, showing appreciation for the hardworking crew members who make your cruise vacation enjoyable is important. Stateroom stewards are the ones who keep your room clean and tidy throughout your stay, so it’s appreciated–though not mandatory–to tip them an additional $5 per day per person.

The cruise lines separate gratuities into three areas: housekeeping, dining, and alternate services.

Bartenders and baristas may not be as visible as other crew members, but they still play an important role in creating a fun atmosphere onboard. While there typically is a separate gratuity for beverages, tipping these employees around $1-2 per drink is appreciated.

Housekeeping Team (Stateroom Steward)

When tipping your stateroom steward or butler on a cruise ship, the standard amount is $5 per day. However, if you feel your stateroom steward went above and beyond in their service, feel free to increase the tip accordingly.

The best time to leave a tip for your cabin steward is usually at the end of the cruise during disembarkation.

If you are unsatisfied with the service your stateroom steward provides, be sure to address any issues immediately. Speak directly with your steward or their supervisor or contact guest services onboard to resolve problems before leaving a lower-than-expected tip.

Dining Team (Servers)

When tipping your waitstaff on a cruise ship, knowing whether your gratuity is included in your specialty dining package is important. In most cases, a standard gratuity fee will be automatically added to your bill for each specialty restaurant meal.

However, an additional tip is always appreciated if you receive exceptional service or dine at specialty restaurants where the gratuity isn’t included.

For instance, the steakhouse on Carnival Cruise Line is $48 per guest, including the 18 percent service charge. At the same time, at Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Cruise Line, you will pay for a la carte menu items plus a 20 percent added gratuity.

Alternative Services

When giving gratuities on a cruise, it’s important to acknowledge that your money goes beyond the housekeeping and dining staff. “Alternative services” refer to positions that enhance your cruise but aren’t covered by the automatic daily service charge.

These services may include laundry workers, dishwashers, galley attendants, and below-deck positions.

Cruise Gratuities for Special Services

Spa treatments and shore excursions are popular diversions during your cruise, and each has its own set of tipping guidelines. Although tipping for most of the extra services these employees provide is not required, an additional tip is always appreciated.

Bartenders and Coffee Shop

When tipping on a cruise ship, bartenders and baristas are an important part of your vacation experience. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, charges an 18 percent gratuity for drinks – any additional tip is appreciated.

Spa Services

When tipping in the cruise line spa, it’s important to remember that a standard gratuity fee is often automatically added to your bill each day. For instance, an added gratuity of 18 to 20 percent will be included if you purchase a massage or salon service.

An additional tip is always appreciated if you receive exceptional service during your spa treatments.

The amount you should tip varies depending on the cruise line and its specific policies. As a general rule of thumb, 15-20% of the total cost of your spa treatments is considered appropriate.

It’s also a good idea to tip your spa attendant separately if they go above and beyond to make your spa experience memorable.

Other Crew Members

Many people wonder how tips work for other crew members on a cruise ship, such as housekeeping, laundry, or spa staff. While it may vary depending on the cruise line and its policies, these tips are often pooled together with the rest of the gratuities and distributed among crew members.

It’s important to note that cruise lines — Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Holland America, Celebrity, Regent, and Disney — have mandatory gratuities that apply to all guests regardless of who they choose to tip.

Most allow you to adjust the amount given to each crew member – increasing or decreasing – based on your experience with them.

Factors Affecting Tipping Amounts

The amount you should tip can be affected by several factors, including the duration and type of cruise line you’re sailing with – be it mass market, premium, or luxury.

Even the size of your stateroom or suite may also come into play when considering how much to tip, as these larger staterooms tend to have more amenities and even butler service . Lastly, the number of people in your party will also impact gratuities, as tips are paid per person.

Drink Package Tipping and Gratuities

enjoying an amazing drink while on a cruise ship

While most non-alcoholic beverages are included in your cruise fare, alcoholic drinks cost extra. Most premium drink packages include unlimited alcohol (or a 15-drink limit over 24 hours). If you purchase a beverage package, you must pre-pay the gratuity amount for the package’s total.

Example: If the beverage package costs $59.95 per day and your cruise is seven days (a total of $419.65 for your week-long cruise) , you will be charged the gratuities and service charges in addition to the package cost.

Alternative Tipping Strategies

One alternative tipping strategy is to prepay your gratuities before departing on your cruise. This can help you budget for additional costs and ensure that all crew members receive their fair share of tips. Some cruise lines offer discounts or incentives for prepaid tipping.

Another option is to tip individuals directly instead of relying on automatic gratuity charges. This allows you to show appreciation for exceptional service and tailor your tipping based on personal experience rather than a set daily amount.

Remember that some cruise lines may not allow individual tipping, so check their policies.

Prepaid Tipping and Cruise Gratuities

Prepaid tipping is an option many cruise lines offer where guests pay a set amount for tips upfront.
The cost of prepaid tipping on a cruise ship typically ranges from $14 to $25 per person, per day, depending on the cruise line and stateroom type.
You can adjust the prepaid tipping up or down at guest services once you’re on board.

Individual Tipping

Tipping individuals on a cruise ship can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some general guidelines you need to remember:

When should you tip individuals on a cruise ship?

It’s customary to tip at the end of your cruise, either by leaving cash in an envelope in your room or adding it to your bill. However, if someone goes above and beyond during your trip (such as a particularly helpful stateroom steward), feel free to give them extra.

Is it appropriate to withhold tips from an individual if their service is poor?

If you’re dissatisfied with the service, it’s always best to speak with the management before deciding not to leave a tip. The crew member may have had extenuating circumstances outside their control that affected their performance or the service they could deliver.

In general, withholding tips is only recommended if there was no effort towards good service. Remember, crew members are not paid the same as in the US and rely on tips for their livelihood.

Keep in mind that tipping is at your discretion. These are only suggestions based on cruise industry standards.

Included Cruise Tips as a Booking Perk

Many cruise lines are moving toward bundling gratuities and other add-ons as part of the overall cruise fare, allowing guests to feel like they’re getting more value for their dollar.

Lately, we are seeing this practice not just with the luxury lines but also with premium operators like Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.

If opting for this, remember that while standard gratuities cover the basics like your housekeeping and dining teams, add-ons like spa services and specialty dining are typically not included.

Key Takeaways for Cruise Tipping

Every cruise line has different policies regarding tipping, so be sure to research before you embark on your journey. And most importantly, don’t forget to pack extra cash for tipping, as not all crew members are covered under automatic gratuity charges.

Remember to budget for daily automatic gratuities. These fees are typically $15 to $20 per person per day and will be added to your onboard spending account if you do not pre-pay.
Don’t assume you don’t need to tip for additional services, such as spa treatments or drinks at the bar, as they may also include an additional service charge.
Consider prepaying your gratuities to save money and make it easier to budget for your cruise. When tipping in cruise ports, follow local customs, as tipping may not be expected or less than in the US or Canada.

RELATED: Gratuities — How much is too much?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it mandatory to tip the stateroom steward on a cruise ship.

Tipping your stateroom steward on a cruise is customary and appreciated for their housekeeping, turndown, and other services. The standard tip for a stateroom steward is $3 to $5 per person per day, but you can tip more for exceptional service. If you need additional guidance on how much to tip, you can ask your stateroom steward for a recommendation.

Is it cheaper to prepay gratuities on a cruise?

The cost is the same whether gratuities are paid onboard or before your cruise. The decision to prepay gratuities is ultimately yours. It may be a good option if you think it will help with budgeting and are confident in the service.

Can I remove my cruise ship gratuities?

Most cruise lines allow you to remove (or increase) prepaid gratuities, but remember crew members rely heavily on tips for their income as they make up a significant portion of their pay. Before removing gratuities, talk to guest service to see if there are any solutions to your particular issues.

Why don’t cruise lines pay employees a salary?

Unlike the U.S., cruise lines do not have to pay a minimum wage but instead pay their crew members a salary often supplemented with tips, plus free room, board, and medical care. This motivates employees to provide excellent service and keeps cruise prices more affordable by passing the cost of tips on to passengers.

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Everything About Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024 (Amounts, Etiquette, and More)

If you’re a first-time cruiser, then there’s little doubt that you have questions about gratuities and tipping on your cruise. We’re here to help.

First of all, if you’re feeling a little confused, don’t worry — you aren’t alone. In fact, we can’t think of a place where gratuities are handled the same way as they are on a cruise ship.

Gone are the days of simply slipping a waiter some cash or leaving a couple of bills for the room steward at the end of your trip (although you can still do that if you want).

Instead, gratuities on a cruise ship are highly automated, with most people just electing to prepay or being charged a set amount for each day on the ship.

While this is intended to make things easier, the honest truth is that having automatic gratuities can actually lead to more questions. Who gets the tips? How much is charged? What if service is bad?

If you’ve never cruised, then there is no doubt that these questions and more might be floating through your head. To help explain everything about cruise line gratuities, we’ve answered a number of common questions that will make everything clearer before you set sail.

In This Article...

Explained: What Exactly Are Cruise Ship Gratuities

While the name sounds fancy, gratuities are nothing more than a tip paid to the staff members for service during the cruise. The staff works hard to ensure that your vacation is a great one. As a thanks for their service, it’s customary to provide a tip.

The gratuities go to staff that provide passenger-facing services. That means people like the room steward who cleans your cabin and the dining staff. Some cruise lines distribute them even wider to the staff.

These days, the gratuities are set daily amounts paid by each passenger. Instead of one passenger paying a lot and another paying hardly anything, these set amounts ensure that everyone pays the same. The cruise line then distributes the payment to staff.

My Cruise Line Calls it a Crew Incentive or Service Charge. Is that the Same Thing?

Depending on your cruise line, you might find different language used than the word “gratuities.” We’ve seen these charges called tips, gratuities, crew incentives, or service charges .

No matter the language, they all end up being the same thing — a set daily charge to passengers that’s passed on to the crew.

How Much You’ll Pay in Cruise Gratuities

The amount you pay will vary by cruise line, but they are all in the same ballpark. You can expect to pay about $15-$20 per person, per day. Most lines charge $16 at the moment, but it steadily rises each year.

A couple traveling together will see about $30-$40 per day in gratuities, or about $200+ over the course of a week-long cruise.

Below, we’ve listed the current tip amounts charged by major cruise lines as of the time of this writing:

Carnival : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
Celebrity : $18.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for those in Concierge Class and AquaClass cabins. $23.00 per person, per day for guest of The Retreat. Source .
Disney : $14.50 per person, per day. $15.50 per person, per day for those staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites. Source .
Holland America : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.50 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
Norwegian : $20.00 per person, per day. $25.00 per person, per day staying in suites and The Haven. Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
MSC Cruises : $16.00 per person, per day. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay $8 per day. Passengers under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
Princess : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.00 per person, per day staying in mini-suites. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
Royal Caribbean : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for guests in suites and higher. Source .

How Are Cruise Line Gratuities Paid?

How do you actually pay tips on the cruise ship? In the past, the process used to be that the cruise line would put envelopes in your room on the last day of the cruise. Passengers would then put cash in the envelope for the crew members. These days, everything is automatic.

When you book the cruise you’ll have the ability to prepay gratuities . You are charged a set amount, per person, per day. You simply pay this extra amount in full for your cruise as part of your cruise fare.

If you don’t decide to prepay the tips, then the amount is automatically charged to your onboard account each day. When it comes time to settle your final bill at the end of the cruise, you’ll have the gratuity charges to pay as well.

Want to tip more? You can still hand out cash to individual members of the staff that you appreciate, although it’s not required.

Is Every Passenger Charged Gratuities?

The vast majority of passengers are charged these tips, no matter if they are young, old, have special requests, eat in the main dining room, or only hit the buffet.

That said, some cruise lines make exceptions for small kids. For example, Carnival does not charge tips for kids under two years old. Norwegian Cruise Lines doesn’t charge gratuities for kids under three. However, for the most part you can expect that every passenger on your trip will see a charge.

Here are the policies for major cruise lines:

Carnival : Guests under 2 years old aren’t charged gratuity.
Disney : All guests pay gratuities at their discretion.
Holland America : All guests pay gratuities.
Norwegian : Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity.
MSC Cruises : Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay half amounts.
Princess : All guests pay gratuities.
Royal Caribbean : All guests pay gratuities.

How Can I Know How Much I Will Be Charged in Tips?

When you book your cruise, the gratuity amount is usually disclosed in full for your trip, with an option to prepay the amount with your cruise fare.

If you’d like to calculate exactly what your gratuity amount will be before you book your trip, then you can use our calculator here . Simply enter the cruise line, length of trip, and the number of passengers and it will show you precisely how much you’ll be charged.

Can I Adjust the Amount of Gratuities?

For most people, the service they receive on a cruise is outstanding. They recognize that the staff goes above and beyond to make their vacation enjoyable. But that’s not always the case. With millions of passengers sailing every year, there’s inevitably going to be someone who feels they received poor service.

If that’s the case — and you decide you want to change the amount you are charged for tips — then you can do that. Gratuity charges are typically not mandatory and can be adjusted. To do so, simply head down to Guest Services on the ship to tell them that you want to change your tip amounts.

That said, it’s unusual to adjust the gratuity amount, and the staff works extremely hard to make your trip enjoyable. If you have a major issue, however, you can change your gratuity amount accordingly.

What If I Don’t Pay Gratuities on my Cruise?

With the introduction of automatic gratuities, it’s much more difficult to avoid paying tips on your cruise. That said, in theory you could request that tips be removed from your account and not tip at all.

So what will happen? As far as your trip, likely very little. The staff isn’t likely to treat you any differently or even know that you aren’t tipping (after all, some people still like to pay cash at the end of the cruise). They will still go out of their way to make your cruise comfortable and enjoyable.

That said, if you don’t pay gratuities, then it’s the staff that will be hurting — not the cruise line. The cruise line collects the tips and then distributes them accordingly. Without your contribution, the compensation for the staff members will decrease. For staff members that rely on these dollars, that can be a major blow.

How to Pay Extra (If You Want)

Want to pay more in gratuity? That’s allowed. In fact, the staff will love that you want to give them more money. If you want to pay extra, we suggest simply handing cash directly to the people you want to recognize for their service. This happens regularly for passengers feeling generous or thankful for the staff’s work during their trip. In fact, your cruise line might leave a few envelopes in your room exactly for this purpose.

Should I Prepay the Gratuity Charges?

When you book your cruise, you’ll be given the opportunity to prepay the gratuities. In this case, you can simply choose to have them lumped in with your cruise fare, paying them all at once.

The advantage is that you get your payment out of the way ahead of time. So when you’re on the ship, it’s one less charge to worry about.

On the other hand, many people choose to instead pay the gratuity charges automatically through their onboard account once on the ship . Each day there will be a gratuity charge — or a lump sum added at the end of the trip.

The advantage here is that you get to hold on to more of your money for longer. Instead of handing over the charges well in advance of your sailing, you can keep it until you’re actually on your cruise.

Bottom line is that it comes down to personal preference. You can get the charge out of the way early, or hold onto your money until you actually sail.

Who Gets the Gratuities That You Pay?

From the passenger perspective, the gratuity amount is simple — pay a set amount per person, per day, and be done.

On the cruise line side, that money gets cut up to be distributed. The tips are spread out between the room steward, dining staff, and others that have customer-facing positions. That said, cruise lines are quiet on exactly how the charges are distributed.

The good thing for passengers about gratuities is that this distribution is done automatically by the cruise line instead of having to give tips to several different staff members at the end of your cruise.

Why Aren’t Gratuities Just Included in the Price of the Cruise?

For some cruise lines (usually luxury lines), gratuities actually are included in the fare — you don’t pay anything extra apart from your cruise fare.

However, for the majority of mass market cruise lines the gratuities are extra charges on the price of your cruise. These can be a surprise to some people, especially first-time passengers.

While the cruise lines might say differently, we think that gratuities aren’t included in the headline price for marketing purposes. There’s little doubt that the extra tips can be expensive. The cost for two people on a week-long cruise can be well above $200.

Meanwhile, cruise fares are often shown as dirt-cheap prices. They are often expressed as the rate for a single person (despite having to pay for double occupancy) and don’t include port fees or taxes. Having to add in gratuity costs to these advertised rates could make them less attractive to potential cruisers.

How Often Do the Gratuity Rates Increase?

The tipping rates charged change from time to time. We’ve seen instances of multiple increases in a year and other times when rates won’t change for a year or two. Just like the price of anything else, you should expect over time for these rates to continue to rise slowly but surely. Typical increases are around $1 per person, per day and seem to happen about once a year.

One perk of pre-paying gratuities is that if you pre-pay and the rate later increases, you aren’t charged the higher rate.

Who Else to Tip While On the Ship

You would think that paying a hefty daily tip would cover everyone on the ship. In fact, there are a couple of instances where paying additional gratuity is recommended or automatic.

First, any time that you buy a drink from the bar, you will be charged an extra tip, usually 18%-20% of the menu price, depending on the cruise line. This happens automatically and will be tacked on to the price. So a $10 menu price on a cocktail is actually around $12.

Be aware that when you sign the receipt there will be another line for an additional tip. Unless you are feeling generous, there’s no need to tip more .

Second, any time that you purchase anything service related — such as dinner at a specialty restaurant or a service at the spa — expect there to be a tip added on to the cost. Again, this normally runs around 18%, but can range from 15% to 20%, depending on the cruise line.

Finally, if you order anything from room service, then it’s expected that you give a couple of bucks to the staff member that delivers the food.

Other than that, your gratuity charges cover the housekeeping and dining staff. So when you leave the room you don’t have to put down any extra cash (unless you want to). And when you leave the dining room, no need to drop down any money on the table.

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We have just returned from a Cruise on NCL around the Canaries and Med The Crew was 65% Philipino and were on minimum wage. Although I appreciate that NCL is a USA Company that has no respect for its workers it is why they recruit from Asia, instead of paying a decent living wage they charge the passenger’s outrageous gratuities to compensate for their bad business practices. The only reason they will not add the Gratuites to the original brochure price or remove them like P&O has is then they would have to pay their crew a living wage. In the UK we tip for good service not to prop up the wages of poorly paid employees.

The employer has to pay its employees their salaries And we thé customers should not be worried about this. We pay the Cruise and that’s it. This tipping business is getting out of control and is shifting responsibility from the employers to the clients using our guilty conscience from being on a cruise? Also in the restaurants, hair salons, all businesses …this is all wrong

The baggage porters at the port do not work for the cruise line, but for the port itself. You customarily tip $1 – $2 per bag (more if you want) OR you can NOT tip and risk that the one guy you didn’t tip handles your bag with care and the bag actually makes it on the ship and doesn’t “accidently” get left behind. The risk to me isn’t worth the $5 tip we give for 2 bags. On another subject, what makes Miami the worse port? We just booked a cruise out of Miami for the first time in 10 years. What makes it “the worse”, other than your bad experience with the porters dictating what you should tip, which is 199% wrong, in my opinion.

I don’t understand why we are paying the salaries of the teams and not the cruise line. I know Tui and P&O don’t charge gratuities, it’s actually the choice of the person if they wish to give a tip. I have booked with NCL next year because I’m advised taking my money can either be pre paid or can opt out. I so hope that’s true.

I think this was an excellent way of looking. Have a set routine payout and adjust accordingly to the level of service.

This abuse of tipping allows companies to pay their workers a lower wage and pocket the profits. Whatever happened to just doing the job you’re paid for? Housekeeping is supposed to make up rooms, servers are supposed to serve food… But I’m supposed to pay a hundred bucks a day for a family of five, in the same room, and after I’ve already paid five grand for the cruise? Ridiculous.

All of you have great advice. I too pay in cash and at times have given extra. What do you do about the porters at the ports. I gave always given them money to take my bags to the ship. Tipping is out of control everywhere. In Miami the worst place to board the ship. I have stepped out of the shuttle seeing the conveyer a short distance away. The porter stands there counts the luggage and has told the price for a handling fee. Really, do they get an hourly wage that’s so low they need tip to survive? Are tips required? What the real deal? If tips are not required, do their supervisors know about this up charge?

If I travel with my family of 4, and I pay the waiting $20 ($5 per person) staff each time we eat in the dining room, which would be for dinner only, over 7 days, that would $140. Then if I pay another $5 per person each day for room clean-up, that’s another $140, for a total of $280. I think these amounts are reasonable. But RCCL wants to charge $448. That doesn’t seem fair.

Thank you! You were extremely helpful for my upcoming cruise!

When we researched tipping policy on a recent Princess cruise, we found that the cruise line pools that money and uses it for bonuses, etc. over all its ships, not just the cruise we were on. I find this to be an outrageous ploy to hide the true costs of a cruise. We nearly always opt out of tips and tip whom we want directly.

We are cruising with NCL later this year & we have a beverage package included & gratuities included does that mean we will not pay any more gratuities at end of cruise?

Yes, except if you are sailing in the U.S., then NCL tacks on the gratuities on the amount of the beverage package even though the package is free. So the $99 per day package is free, but you are charged about $20 per day still for the drink package gratuities.

I Agree, we always opt out and give tips to our steward and waiter/waitress at the end of the cruise.

We always hand our tips in cash to the person whose service we wish to commend. We never use a credit card for our on ship account. We deposit cash to use for our onboard account. If gratuities show on our account when we settle at cruise end, we ask for them to be removed. We want the people who earned the tip to receive, not the lousy,greedy, uninvolved government! We rarely buy anything on the ship of value. We use prepaid drink cards to purchase beverages.

Great advice. This is my first cruise. I didnt know I could have the tips removed from my room charges. I detest the idea of: A. not knowing who my tip is going to B. Paying a tip twice C. Paying a standardized tip for poor service. I want the employee to know they received a tip from me. Not to split them across all the employees equally. All service isn’t created equally.

What sucks is the workers then have to pay a tax on the “tip” where we would rather give the workers a “gift” of cash.

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MSC and Gratuities – Your Guide on How Much You Can Expect to Pay

Most cruise lines either include gratuities are do not, MSC are slightly different in that they do include gratuities for some people but not for others.

In this post we will cover who has included gratuities and what these gratuities are if you do have to pay for them.

Do MSC Cruises Include Gratuities?

Gratuities are included in MSC cruises booked from the UK. MSC do not encourage guests to tip any extra beyond the amount included in the cruise fare.

MSC Cruises do not include gratuities if booked from the USA. When booking from the US MSC’s Gratuities cost $14 per person per day. If booking an MSC cruise from other European countries, gratuities are not usually included.

What Are Gratuities?

Gratuities are charges automatically added to your onboard account during a cruise. These are usually priced per person per day and they will act as tips for the staff on board.

The cost of gratuities does vary by cruise line but as an example, $15 per person per night would be a reasonable charge to expect.

On most cruise lines you are able to remove this charge if you wish but doing so usually requires going to the reception of the cruise ship when onboard and asking to have them removed.

To learn more about gratuities including how to pay or remove them, check out this post: Cruise Gratuities: A Simple Step by Step Guide For First Time Cruisers

Booking an MSC Cruise From The UK and Ireland

In June 2019 MSC Cruises made the move to include gratuities in the prices of cruises booked from the UK. Any cruise booked since will include gratuities regardless of if the cruise was booked through a travel agent or directly with MSC. Many cruise lines from the UK have adopted a gratuity inclusive price with P&O and Marella also including gratuities.

SERVICE CHARGES / GRATUITIES Service Charge / Gratuities are included in the cruise fare.

Since adding in the cost of gratuities to the cruise fare it is no longer possible to remove this portion.

Gratuities with MSC previous to this change were around €10 per person per night. This price did vary based on the location of the cruise.

Booking an MSC Cruise From The USA

If you are booking an MSC cruise and are from the USA gratuities will be automatically added onto your onboard account. These can be removed although I wouldn’t recommend doing this. Many staff members work behind the scenes in the laundry, kitchens etc and by tipping only the crew you see these members lose out.

For your convenience, MSC Cruises will automatically add a daily Hotel Service Charge to your shipboard account, based on your chosen itinerary and the number of days for which the services are actually provided.

Pre Paying Gratuities

When booking an MSC cruise from the USA it is possible to prepay the gratuities at the time of booking the cruise. I would recommend you take this option if it is offered to you, it’s horrible having a big bill at the end of your cruise!

If you have booked through a travel agent they should ask you if you want to prepay.

If you’ve booked directly you’ll usually be able to prepay online or phone MSC to do so.

Booking a cruise around America, Canada, and the Caribbean from the US

The adult gratuity price for cruises in this part of the world is currently $14.

Booking a cruise around Europe or the Middle East from the US

The adult gratuity price for cruises in this part of the world is €10 per night. There are no current plans to increase this.

Booking a cruise around South Africa from the US

The adult gratuity price for cruises in this part of the world is currently $8 per night.

Booking a cruise around South America from the US

The adult gratuity price for cruises in this part of the world is currently $12.50 per night.

Do Children Have to Pay a Gratuity with MSC?

Children under 2 do not have to pay any gratuities when cruising with MSC. Children aged 2+ have to pay a gratuity at a reduced rate, this is usually 50% of the adult price but it does vary based on the location of the cruise.

This is based on the child’s age on embarkation day so if they turned 2 mid-way through the cruise they don’t have to pay gratuities.

Booking an MSC Cruise From The Rest of Europe

When booking an MSC cruise from Europe (excluding the UK/Ireland) gratuities will be automatically added. Many promotions will include gratuities.

MSC often included gratuities when purchasing certain cabin grades. MSC’s cabins are either Fantastica or Bella grade with Fantastica being the more expensive.

MSC will often run promotions where gratuities are automatically included with Fantastica cabins. If this is the case it can sometimes be cheaper to book a Fantastica cabin which includes gratuities than a Bella cabin which does not.

Can You Tip With Cash on an MSC Cruise?

If you do want to you can tip the staff with cash however MSC actively discourages this. On some other cruise lines tipping in cash will be actively encouraged and you’ll find tipping envelopes in your cabin/at dinner on the last night.

Many people do tip in addition to the automatic gratuities for staff members who have gone above and beyond in the service that they have provided. The crew will always be grateful for extra tips and anything is appreciated.

To learn more about using cash on a cruise, including when it’s not usually recommended, check out this post: Cruise Ships Are Cashless Societies – Here’s Why

Who Are MSC Cruises Good For?

I consistently recommend MSC cruises for families and younger cruisers. MSC has a very high proportion of families on their cruises and the average age is lower than the rest of the industry.

To learn more about why I consistently recommend MSC, including my thoughts on the food, check out the recommended cruise lines page here: Best Cruise Lines For Families (Tried & Tested, Pros & Cons!)

I’ve cruised with MSC 3 times, once onboard the MSC Opera and twice onboard the MSC Meraviglia. I recently took three first time cruisers on an MSC cruise and they loved it. We paid just under £400 for a week-long cruise which was incredible value.

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How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

The average cost of a cruise varies by ship, destination, trip length and more. Use this guide to learn more about cruise costs.

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With the rising cost of everything, including travel, cruise fares – some as low as $26 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables; unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $171 per person for a four-night Bahamas cruise to up to $94,999 per person for a 154-night world cruise and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November costs approximately $424 to $1,158 per person.
A seven-night Alaska cruise in May costs approximately $244 to $1,632 per person.
A seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise in June costs approximately $439 to $3,218 per person.
A seven-night Mexico cruise in January costs approximately $529 to $695 per person.
A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October costs approximately $470 to $954 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Aerial of family sitting on lounge chairs, being served drinks on a cruise ship

Mass-market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues, several types of nonalcoholic beverages (nonbottled water, iced tea, lemonade, juices, hot coffee and tea), the ship's pools, the gym, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a porthole or window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Find the best value sailings on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

If you splurge on a suite or a higher room category, such as Celebrity's Concierge Class, you'll get perks like priority embarkation, a Welcome Aboard Concierge Class Lunch, complimentary sparkling wine and daily tastings (upon request), concierge service, invitations to exclusive destination seminars, pillow selection and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also have priority check-in and boarding, complimentary Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as MSC Cruises' Yacht Club, Norwegian's The Haven or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer an all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a rooftop pool, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that includes airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate, while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary.

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships. You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slides on a new ship like Norwegian Prima or its new sister ship, Norwegian Viva, set to debut in summer 2023.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

Solo travelers may pay more

Back of woman holding her hat, with her scarf flying in the wind, on a cruise ship

If you're traveling alone , you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo cabins.

These smaller accommodations – around 100 to 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Complex and Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

Read: The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Kids cruise free promotions can help families save

Smiling woman holding laughing daughter on a cruise ship in the Norwegian fjords

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for the kids on select sailings. Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages whose regular fares are around $6,000 and up. This fare also includes unlimited shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Food and beverage packages are another expense to consider

Table of breakfast overlooking the ocean

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues , alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on most ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship. For an example of the savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 to $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $75 or more for dinner. Other venues feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these may not include gratuity, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price. Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive. Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a call brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

Other lines have packages that cover top-shelf beverages of up to $20 each and include wine, large bottles of water and soda, and other perks. You'll need to budget around $85 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer.

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers a "Have It All" package that encompasses a shore excursion credit, a signature beverage package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and Wi-Fi. If you're sailing on longer cruises of 10 to 21 days or more, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Two Champagne flutes on table on cruise ship, with sparkling ocean in the background

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship – such as Norwegian's racetrack and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT. See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more starting at $12.75 per day per person. The cost increases to $17 per day per person with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan starts at $18.70 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "Always Included" fare includes basic internet, a classic drink package and gratuities. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion where you'll arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars.

If these types of experiences are not in your budget, then look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These excursions are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Most of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town, or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee, if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on the ship. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

Suitcase with flippers on top on a rocky beach, with ocean in background

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

Base cruise price
Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
Specialty dining
Beverage package
Optional activities
Miscellaneous expenses
Air or ground travel to the port
Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's nine all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate 930 passengers – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to The Nordic Spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have complimentary alternative dining options and free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge. Guests are also invited to a welcome cocktail party and farewell reception.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line, so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

Read: The Best Adults-Only Cruises

All-inclusive cruises

Cruise ship balcony deck with railing and red lifebuoy

Silversea Cruises , Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare, depending on the destination.

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, open bar and gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports activities and nightly movies under the stars.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Baltic region in June with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive fare with suite accommodations is $12,540 ($6,270 per person). There are also additional perks available, depending on where you book the cruise. Some of the extras include a cash-back offer, a two-category upgrade and shipboard credit.

Silversea has a similar itinerary in June, and the fare also comes with added perks for $13,860 for two people ($6,930 per person) in suite accommodations.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own.

Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, opt for a cruise on a small luxury line.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass-market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Snake and Columbia rivers, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Reader's Digest

7 Most Affordable Cruise Lines That’ll Make Your Cruising Dreams Come True

Posted: October 2, 2023 | Last updated: October 2, 2023

The cheapest cruise lines

Cruising is often described as the ultimate relaxing vacation. You only unpack once, yet you wake up in a new country or island every morning. You also never have to worry about where to eat, there are nonstop activities onboard that keep everyone entertained—and most everything is included in the price. So you don't have to worry much about overspending once you're on board if you book on one of the most affordable cruise lines.

Of course, everything is more expensive these days, leaving some travelers to wonder if there are still affordable cruises available to meet their vacation budgets. Thankfully, that answer is yes, and there are several brands that still provide exceptional value aboard their floating cities. Many are among the best cruise lines , and some are even frequent cruisers' favorite cruises . In fact, you might be surprised to learn that living on a cruise ship can be cheaper than a mortgage , in case you decide you never want to return from your vacation.

So follow these cruise tips for how to save money on a cruise by booking the most affordable cruise lines. You may even be able to sneak in an extra vacation this year with all your savings. Here's what to pack for a cruise .

How much does a cheap cruise cost?

Cheap cruises usually range in price from $40 to $100 per night per person. To put that deal in perspective, imagine having your accommodations, food and entertainment covered for roughly $50 a day on a traditional land-based trip—you'd be hard-pressed to stay within that budget just for your meals. It's truly impressive that these all-inclusive cruises can charge so little.

But before you get too excited over these low prices, don't forget to factor in the cost of the extras when calculating your total expenses—that's one of the secrets cruise lines won't tell you . Things like drinks, shore excursions, gratuities, spa treatments, specialty dining, airfare, photos, taxes and port fees aren't included and can add up quickly.

Finally, keep in mind that the best deals will always be for an inside cabin, which means you won't have a porthole (let alone a balcony) for natural light. The good news? You'll sleep like a baby in total darkness, especially during an afternoon nap.

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<p>It's important to pay attention to the <a href="https://www.rd.com/list/cheapest-days-of-the-week-to-do-anything/" rel="noopener noreferrer">cheapest times</a> to book a cruise if you want to save even more. Wave season, which is from January to March, is a promotional time of year when cruise lines run their most competitive sales. These sales are designed to encourage bookings for later in the year. You can also keep an eye on sites like MSC's <a title="https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise-deals" href="https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise-deals" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cruise Deals</a> to find great prices.</p> <p>There are great deals at other times of the year too. Generally speaking, the further in advance you book, the better prices you'll find. But the opposite is also true, because cruise lines will happily sell unused inventory at a significantly reduced rate in the form of last-minute deals. You'll need a flexible schedule to pull this off, and you may find airfare is too costly at that point.</p> <p>Beyond wave season, planning far in advance or nabbing last-minute cruise deals, it's also wise to consider booking your cruises for the off-season. For instance, for the Caribbean and Mexico, that would mean summer sailings or during <a href="https://www.rd.com/article/shoulder-season/" rel="noopener noreferrer">shoulder season</a> (the month before and after high season—for example, in the case of Alaska, this would be in May or September). Just know that you are taking a bit of a risk with the weather during these off-peak times.</p>

When is the cheapest time to book a cruise?

It's important to pay attention to the cheapest times to book a cruise if you want to save even more. Wave season, which is from January to March, is a promotional time of year when cruise lines run their most competitive sales. These sales are designed to encourage bookings for later in the year. You can also keep an eye on sites like MSC's Cruise Deals to find great prices.

There are great deals at other times of the year too. Generally speaking, the further in advance you book, the better prices you'll find. But the opposite is also true, because cruise lines will happily sell unused inventory at a significantly reduced rate in the form of last-minute deals. You'll need a flexible schedule to pull this off, and you may find airfare is too costly at that point.

Beyond wave season, planning far in advance or nabbing last-minute cruise deals, it's also wise to consider booking your cruises for the off-season. For instance, for the Caribbean and Mexico, that would mean summer sailings or during shoulder season (the month before and after high season—for example, in the case of Alaska, this would be in May or September). Just know that you are taking a bit of a risk with the weather during these off-peak times.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers sailings out of the U.S. (New York, Miami and Orlando) to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Bermuda, New England and Canada. It also offers sailings to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Egypt, Dubai, South Africa and more.

Cost: Cruises on MSC start as low as $129 per person.

Specials to watch for: MSC offers such limited-time specials as free drinks and Wi-Fi plus up to $200 onboard credit (which can be used to book extras like shore excursions or spa treatments).

Other savings to consider: You won't find an adults-only cruise here, however this cruise line does offer a Kids Sail Free program, which means that all children under 18 traveling in the same cabin as their parents travel free all year-round. Port taxes, registration costs, insurance, flights and transfers (where required) are excluded from the offer, but it still goes a long way toward making this one of the most affordable cruise lines.

Affordable cruises: We've seen a 6-night southern Caribbean cruise for as low as $219 total per person.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line —known as one of the most affordable cruise lines—was founded in 1972 and now carries millions of guests every year aboard its 24 ships. It sails to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Greenland, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific.

Cost: Cruises on Carnival start as low as $169 per person.

Specials to watch for: Carnival celebrates dates like National Tourism Day with up to 40% off cruise rates, plus $50 onboard credits and reduced deposit rates from $50 per person. Other limited-time promotions include free cabin upgrades and "Early Saver" rates with price protection that provide peace of mind for early bookings.

Other savings to consider: One of the things that makes Carnival Cruise Lines even more affordable is that it has 14 home ports in the United States (Baltimore, Charleston, Galveston, Jacksonville, Long Beach, Miami, Mobile, New Orleans, New York, Norfolk, Orlando, San Francisco, Seattle and Tampa), making it easier for Americans to drive to their ship and avoid booking pricey flights .

Affordable cruises: We've seen a 5-day Mexican Riviera cruise for as low as $234 per person.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers itineraries to 240 destinations in 61 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean's private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The innovative brand is known for many firsts at sea, including an ice-skating rink, bumper cars, zip-line, rock climbing wall, robotic bartenders and the Flowrider surf simulator. Its latest ship, the Icon of the Seas , which is set to begin sailing in January 2024, will be the world's largest cruise ship.

Cost: Cruises on Royal Caribbean start as low as $172 per person.

Specials to watch for: Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions like "30% Off Every Guest" (provides 30% savings off the cruise fare for all guests in the stateroom), flash deals like "Up to $550 Off" (provides instant savings of up to $550 USD per stateroom) and "Kids Sail Free" promos, during which the third and fourth guests who are 12 years or younger are eligible for free cruise fare.

Other savings to consider: Royal Caribbean offers exclusive access to pre-cruise savings and discounts that won't be available once you're onboard for things like shore excursions, beverage packages, food packages and Wi-Fi packages.

Affordable cruises: We've seen a 6-night Pacific Coast cruise for $250 per person.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is a premium cruise line with award-winning itineraries around the globe, sailing to Alaska, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Japan, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico, Hawaii, the South Pacific and the California Coast. It's an excellent choice for a couples cruise (they host a lot of weddings and vow renewals), but it's also family-friendly.

Cost: Hundreds of sailings on Princess are priced under $100 per day; 60 sailings under $60 per day.

Specials to watch for: Princess regularly offers promotions, such as a 40% savings and low $100 deposit specials.

Other savings to consider: Upgrade to the Princess Plus or Princess Premier packages, which roll in the price of extras like Wi-Fi, drinks, gratuities and more for a savings of up to 66% vs. purchasing them separately.

Affordable cruises: Everyone dreams of booking the best Alaska cruise , and we've seen 7-night Alaska cruises for as low as $349 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet of 18 ships sails to 400 of the world's most desirable destinations—such as Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, New England, Caribbean, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, Mexico, the Baltic, South America and more.

Cost: Cruises on Norwegian start as low as $249 per person.

Specials to watch for: NCL offers various deals throughout the year. One recent special was 70% off, plus free airfare for the second guest, plus the third and fourth guests sailed for free.

Other savings to consider: Part of what makes Norwegian one of the best and most affordable cruise lines is that all cruise offerings may be combined with the company's ongoing "Free at Sea" promotion, which includes unlimited open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and excursions. (Want to find out more about hidden features on cruise ships that you never knew existed?)

Affordable cruises: We've seen 7-day Alaska cruises for as low as $279 per person.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line has been cruising both popular and less-traveled ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Europe, South America, the Panama Canal, Australia, New Zealand and Asia for 150 years. It has a fleet of 11 classic ships and does more than 500 sailings a year, visiting all seven continents.

Cost: Cruises on Holland start as low as $89 per person.

Specials to watch for: Having recently celebrated its 150th anniversary, Holland America has been offering 45% off cruise fares, up to $300 in onboard credit and reduced deposits of only $150. The brand typically offers other specials throughout the year.

Other savings to consider: For family cruise travelers , Holland America Line provides a Kids Cruise Free offer, allowing guests ages 18 and under to travel free to Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean when booked as a third or fourth guest on select cruises. And when booked directly on Holland America Line's site, travelers can take advantage of the Have It All Cruise Package, which includes shore excursion credits, drink package, specialty dining and Wi-Fi.

Affordable cruises: We've seen 7-day Alaska cruises as low as $329 per person.

<p><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Cruise_Review-d15691378-Reviews-Celebrity_Millennium" rel="noopener noreferrer">Celebrity</a> has 15 award-winning ships that take guests to more than 300 destinations in 79 countries on all seven continents, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia and the South Pacific, Galapagos and Canada.</p> <p><strong>Cost: </strong>Cruises on Celebrity start as low as $288 per person.</p> <p><strong>Specials to watch for: </strong>Celebrity offers various specials, like a spring sale that takes 75% off a second guest's fare and saves up to $800 per stateroom with up to $800 to spend on board. Also look for promotions like Alaska weekend flash sales (second guest sails for free plus $250 onboard credit) and 20% off Galapagos vacations (round-trip airfare included).</p> <p><strong>Other savings to consider: </strong>Choose the <a href="https://www.rd.com/list/best-all-inclusive-cruises/" rel="noopener noreferrer">all-inclusive options</a> of prepackaged drinks, Wi-Fi and tips to save up to 45% on these individual items.</p> <p><strong>Affordable cruises: </strong>We've seen 7-night Alaska cruises for as low as $299 per person.</p> <p class="listicle-page__cta-button-shop"><a class="shop-btn" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Cruise_Review-d15691378-Reviews-Celebrity_Millennium">Book Now</a></p>

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity has 15 award-winning ships that take guests to more than 300 destinations in 79 countries on all seven continents, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia and the South Pacific, Galapagos and Canada.

Cost: Cruises on Celebrity start as low as $288 per person.

Specials to watch for: Celebrity offers various specials, like a spring sale that takes 75% off a second guest's fare and saves up to $800 per stateroom with up to $800 to spend on board. Also look for promotions like Alaska weekend flash sales (second guest sails for free plus $250 onboard credit) and 20% off Galapagos vacations (round-trip airfare included).

Other savings to consider: Choose the all-inclusive options of prepackaged drinks, Wi-Fi and tips to save up to 45% on these individual items.

Affordable cruises: We've seen 7-night Alaska cruises for as low as $299 per person.

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Sweepstakes

MSC Cruises' Latest Sale Has Voyages Starting at $179 — When to Book

The sale is running until April 18.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is offering monumental savings on sailings to warm weather destinations starting at less than $200 per person.

The sale, which was extended and must be booked by April 18, offers cruises starting at just $179 per person, according to MSC. The sale rate is based on double occupancy and does not include the taxes, fees, or port expenses.

Travelers who take advantage of this deeply-discounted rate can sail on three and four night journeys from Miami for just $179, or from Orlando starting at just $189, MSC shared with Travel + Leisure .

“It’s a great opportunity, whether you’re curious about cruising for the first time or you’re an avid cruiser looking to book your next sailing,” Koreen McNutt, the senior vice president and commercial sales officer for MSC Cruises USA, told T+L. “These quick getaways let guests discover everything we have to offer from world-class onboard entertainment and outstanding family programming to a variety of delicious dining venues and wonderful amenities. Plus, these short cruises all visit our private island in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, with beautiful white-sand beaches and pristine water brimming with vibrant marine life.”

The sale also includes MSC’s cruises from Galveston , which the company plans to introduce as its newest homeport in the United States in 2025. The cruise line expects to sail 7-night trips to Mexico and Central America on the MSC Seascape out of Galveston, which start at just $459 per person during the sale.

In addition, MSC is offering savings on its newest ship, the MSC World America , which the company plans to launch next year complete with a thrilling over-water swing ride, 13 different restaurants, an 11-deck-high dry slide, and more. Cruises on this ship start at just $649 per person as part of the sale.

“Cruising offers an unbeatable value proposition for vacations and we’re offering more itinerary options from a larger selection of embarkation ports than ever before, which makes it even easier for more people to discover what MSC Cruises is all about,” McNutt added.

Beyond the cruise fare, MSC is offering the option for travelers to add a drink package and Wi-FI to their booking starting at just $329.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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For the first time Rosatom Fuel Division supplied fresh nuclear fuel to the world’s only floating nuclear cogeneration plant in the Arctic

The fuel was supplied to the northernmost town of Russia along the Northern Sea Route.

The first in the history of the power plant refueling, that is, the replacement of spent nuclear fuel with fresh one, is planned to begin before 2024. The manufacturer of nuclear fuel for all Russian nuclear icebreakers, as well as the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, is Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC), a company of Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL that is based in Elektrostal, Moscow Region.

The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactors of the icebreaking type. Unlike convenient ground-based large reactors (that require partial replacement of fuel rods once every 12-18 months), in the case of these reactors, the refueling takes place once every few years and includes unloading of the entire reactor core and loading of fresh fuel into the reactor.

The cores of KLT-40 reactors of the Akademik Lomonosov floating power unit have a number of advantages compared to the reference ones: a cassette core was used for the first time in the history of the unit, which made it possible to increase the fuel energy resource to 3-3.5 years between refuelings, and also reduce the fuel component of the electricity cost by one and a half times. The FNPP operating experience formed the basis for the designs of reactors for nuclear icebreakers of the newest series 22220. Three such icebreakers have been launched by now.

For the first time the power units of the Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear power plant were connected to the grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020. The supply of nuclear fuel from Elektrostal to Pevek and its loading into the second reactor is planned for 2024. The total power of the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, supplied to the coastal grid of Pevek without thermal energy consumption on shore, is about 76 MW, being about 44 MW in the maximum thermal power supply mode. The FNPP generated 194 million kWh according to the results of 2023. The population of Pevek is just a little more than 4 thousand, while the FNPP has a potential for supplying electricity to a city with a population of up to 100 thousand people. After the FNPP commissioning two goals were achieved. These include first of all the replacement of the retiring capacities of the Bilibino NPP, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya TPP, which has already been operating for more than 70 years. Secondly, energy is supplied to the main mining companies in western Chukotka in the Chaun-Bilibino energy hub a large ore and metal cluster, including gold mining companies and projects related to the development of the Baimsk ore zone. In September 2023, a 110 kilovolt power transmission line with a length of 490 kilometers was put into operation, connecting the towns of Pevek and Bilibino. The line increased the reliability of energy supply from the FNPP to both Bilibino consumers and mining companies, the largest of which is the Baimsky GOK. The comprehensive development of the Russian Arctic is a national strategic priority. To increase the NSR traffic is of paramount importance for accomplishment of the tasks set in the field of cargo shipping. This logistics corridor is being developed due regular freight voyages, construction of new nuclear-powered icebreakers and modernization of the relevant infrastructure. Rosatom companies are actively involved in this work. Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL (Rosatom Fuel Division) includes companies fabricating nuclear fuel, converting and enriching uranium, manufacturing gas centrifuges, conducting researches and producing designs. As the only nuclear fuel supplier to Russian NPPs, TVEL supplies fuel for a total of 75 power reactors in 15 countries, for research reactors in nine countries, as well as for propulsion reactors of the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth power reactor in the world runs on TVEL fuel. Rosatom Fuel Division is the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium and the leader on the global stable isotope market. The Fuel Division is actively developing new businesses in chemistry, metallurgy, energy storage technologies, 3D printing, digital products, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. TVEL also includes Rosatom integrators for additive technologies and electricity storage systems. Rosenergoatom, Joint-Stock Company is part of Rosatom Electric Power Division and one of the largest companies in the industry acting as an operator of nuclear power plants. It includes, as its branches, 11 operating NPPs, including the FNPP, the Scientific and Technical Center for Emergency Operations at NPPs, Design and Engineering as well as Technological companies. In total, 37 power units with a total installed capacity of over 29.5 GW are in operation at 11 nuclear power plants in Russia. Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC, Elektrostal) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of fuel for nuclear power plants. The company produces fuel assemblies for VVER-440, VVER-1000, RBMK-1000, BN-600,800, VK-50, EGP-6; powders and fuel pellets intended for supply to foreign customers. It also produces nuclear fuel for research reactors. The plant belongs to the TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom.

Rosatom obtained a license for the first land-based SMR in Russia

On April 21, Rosenergoatom obtained a license issued by Rostekhnadzor to construct the Yakutsk land-based SMR in the Ust-Yansky District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

ROSATOM and FEDC agree to cooperate in the construction of Russia's first onshore SNPP

ROSATOM and FEDC have signed a cooperation agreement to build Russia's first onshore SNPP in Yakutia.

Rosatom develops nuclear fuel for modernized floating power units

Rosatom has completed the development of nuclear fuel for the RITM-200S small modular reactor designed for the upgraded floating power units.

IMAGES

Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)
MSC Cruises Review 2023: Information & Essential Guide
MSC BELLISSIMA
MSC and Gratuities
Unveiling MSC Cruises' Gratuities: A Comprehensive Guide
Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)

COMMENTS

Hotel Service Charge
TIPS: MSC does not recommend tipping individual members of staff. For any additional information, please consult the below grids. Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.
MSC Gratuities (Tips/Service Charge): Full Guide to Cost & How They
MSC has several different gratuity rates that depend where the cruise occurs. For those sailing in The Bahamas/Caribbean, South America, or Asia, you'll see the following rates: Adults (>12 and up): $14.50 per night. Children (2-12): $7.25 per night. No service charges for kids under 2 years old. For those sailing in the Mediterranean, Europe ...
MSC Gratuities: The Amounts and All the Details (2024)
Leo. March 22, 2024. Like every other cruise line, MSC requires the payment of gratuities. On the official documents, the company refers to these fees as a daily hotel service charge that is automatically added to the shipboard account. In this article, we're going to see the cost of gratuities on MSC, how you can pay for them, if they're ...
Service Charges / Gratuities
Service Charges / Gratuities. During your cruise you will meet staff throughout the ship who provide you with excellent service. They are supported by just as many staff and crew who work hard behind the scenes to ensure you enjoy every moment onboard. IMPORTANT NOTE : please be informed that as of December 12th, 2022, our updated and automatic ...
Hotel Service Charge
TIPS: MSC does not recommend tipping individual members of staff. Please find below the new automatic Hotel Service Charge rates valid: - From October 2nd, 2023, for cruises sailing to Caribbean and North America; guests with existing bookings confirmed before October 2nd, 2023, will not be impacted by this change .
Hotel Service Charge
Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards. MEDITERRANEAN, CANARY ISLANDS, NORTHERN EUROPE, ANTILLES, DUBAI, ABU DHABI & QATAR, MSC WORLD CRUISE, EGYPT, RED SEA & SAUDI ARABIA CRUISES ... For this reason, MSC discourages tipping ...
Unveiling MSC Cruises' Gratuities: A Comprehensive Guide
Msc gratuities 2023. When planning a cruise with MSC Cruises in 2023, it's important to understand the gratuity policy to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. MSC Cruises has a daily service charge that covers the gratuities for the onboard staff who work tirelessly to make your vacation exceptional. This service charge is ...
How Much Are Gratuities on MSC Ships?
For Adults (over 12 years old): The generalized gratuity rates for adults (over 12 years old) generally fall between 12 to 16 euros per person/night on many MSC cruises from around the world. For Children (Aged 2 and over): The gratuity rates for children range easily between 3 euros to 13 euros per child/night.
Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)
Carnival Cruise Gratuities. Carnival Cruise Line's gratuities are also increasing in 2023. For cruise departures prior to April 1, 2023, guests will need to pay: Standard Staterooms: $14.50 per person, per day. Suite Staterooms: $16.50 per person, per day. On cruise departures on or after April 1, 2023, the fee increases to:
MSC Cruises Gratuity Guide: Understanding Your Costs
MSC charges a daily gratuity rate to ensure that the service staff who make your cruise enjoyable are properly compensated. The gratuities are charged per person for each night of your cruise. Adults (12 and over): Typically $14.50 per night. Children (2-12): Usually $7.25 per night.
Service Charges & Gratuities: MSC Cruises Policy
Service Charges / Gratuities. During your cruise you will meet staff throughout the ship who provide you with excellent service. They are supported by just as many staff and crew who work hard behind the scenes to ensure you enjoy every moment onboard. IMPORTANT NOTE : please be informed that as of December 12th, 2022, our updated and automatic ...
Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities
Automatic gratuity charge: $17 to $19.00 per person, per day. Details: Passengers in most cabins pay $17 for what the line now calls a "crew appreciation" charge. Passengers staying in suites pay $19.00. Additionally, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills and dining room wine purchases.
Unveiling MSC Cruises Tipping Policy: A Complete Guide for Passengers
Msc gratuities 2023. When planning a cruise with MSC Cruises in 2023, it's important to understand their tipping policy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. MSC Cruises operates on a "service charge" system, where gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account. The service charge covers the hard work and dedication of ...
Are Cruise Lines Increasing Gratuities in 2023?
Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line (as well as their sister lines) recently increased their gratuity amounts for 2023.. Carnival's daily gratuity goes from $14.50 to $16.00 for standard cabins ...
Complete Guide to Cruise Line Gratuities
March 5, 2023 January 12, 2024 Planning Tips. Complete Guide to Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024. ... Norwegian coastal cruises there is no gratuity fee. MSC CRUISES: Valid until summer 2024: $14.00 for adults 12 years and older. $7.00 for children ages 2 - 11 years. Under 2 years old, no charge.
Cruise Gratuities: Navigating Tipping & Service Charges (2023)
And most importantly, don't forget to pack extra cash for tipping, as not all crew members are covered under automatic gratuity charges. Remember to budget for daily automatic gratuities. These ...
Full Guide to Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024 (Amounts, Etiquette, and
A couple traveling together will see about $30-$40 per day in gratuities, or about $200+ over the course of a week-long cruise. Below, we've listed the current tip amounts charged by major cruise lines as of the time of this writing: Carnival: $16.00 per person, per day. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites.
Your Guide on How Much You Can Expect to Pay
Service Charge / Gratuities are included in the cruise fare. Since adding in the cost of gratuities to the cruise fare it is no longer possible to remove this portion. Gratuities with MSC previous to this change were around €10 per person per night. This price did vary based on the location of the cruise. MSC Magnifica.
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MSC Cruises continues to grow in popularity, and with this week's announcement that MSC Meraviglia will be sailing year round from New York, there are even more ways to sail with MSC. For those new to the cruise line, there are a whole host of destinations and great ships full of diverse food and entertainment options.Whether embarking on an adult's trip, family vacation, solo or with ...
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Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions: A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November costs approximately $424 to $1,158 per person. A seven ...
Mediterranean Retains Second Most Popular Cruise Market
In 2023, 33.2 million cruise passengers sailed in the Mediterranean, a 6.59% increase compared to 2019. At the same time, the region experienced a 7.91% increase in cruise calls in 2023 compared ...
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Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival Cruise Line —known as one of the most affordable cruise lines—was founded in 1972 and now carries millions of guests every year aboard its 24 ships. It sails to ...
MSC Cruises' Latest Sale Has Voyages Starting at $179
Published on April 12, 2024. Photo: Courtesy of MSC Cruises. MSC Cruises is offering monumental savings on sailings to warm weather destinations starting at less than $200 per person. The sale ...
PEKIN, Elektrostal
Pekin. Review. Save. Share. 17 reviews #12 of 28 Restaurants in Elektrostal $$ - $$$ Asian. Lenina Ave., 40/8, Elektrostal 144005 Russia +7 495 120-35-45 Website + Add hours Improve this listing. See all (5) Enhance this page - Upload photos! Add a photo.
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Welcome to the 628DirtRooster website where you can find video links to Randy McCaffrey's (AKA DirtRooster) YouTube videos, community support and other resources for the Hobby Beekeepers and the official 628DirtRooster online store where you can find 628DirtRooster hats and shirts, local Mississippi honey and whole lot more!
40 Facts About Elektrostal
40 Facts About Elektrostal. Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to ...
For the first time Rosatom Fuel Division supplied fresh nuclear fuel to
The FNPP generated 194 million kWh according to the results of 2023. The population of Pevek is just a little more than 4 thousand, while the FNPP has a potential for supplying electricity to a city with a population of up to 100 thousand people. After the FNPP commissioning two goals were achieved. These include first of all the replacement of ...

Hotel Service Charge

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.

MSC Gratuities: The Amounts and All the Details (2024)

Are gratuities included on MSC cruises?

The price of gratuities on MSC

For cruises to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and New England:

For cruises to South America:

For cruises to Asia:

For cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Antilles, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar, MSC World Cruise, Egypt, Red Sea, and Saudi Arabia:

Can you prepay gratuities on MSC?

Opt out of MSC gratuities

Do I still have to tip while onboard?

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Service Charges / Gratuities

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HOTEL SERVICE CHARGE

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.

Hotel Service Charge

Hotel Service Charge valid for all new bookings from October 19th October 2023 for cruises sailing to China, Japan and Korea from 12th of March 2024 onwards.

How Much Are Gratuities on MSC Ships?

MSC Cruise Service Charges: Know Before You Go

The Gratuities on MSC Cruise

Ways to Pay Gratuity aboard the MSC

Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)

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Everything You Need to Know About Cruise Gratuities in 2023

Is it better to pre-pay gratuities on a cruise?

How Much Are Cruise Gratuities in 2023?

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Disney Cruise Gratuities

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Cruise Gratuities on Margaritaville at Sea

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Daily Gratuity Rates

Service Charges by Region

Gratuities for Different Cabin Types

Automatic Gratuity Policy

Removing Gratuity Charges

How Gratuities are Shared

Rewarding Individual Crew Members

Advantages of Prepaid Gratuities

Onboard Gratuity Payments

When to Tip Above the Set Rates

Examples of Exceptional Service

Gratuities on Different Itineraries

Region-Specific Gratuity Norms

Hotel Service Charge

Bar and Drink Package Service Charges

Gratuities for Families and Children

Managing Gratuities with Cruise Promotions

MSC Specific Programs and Gratuity Policies

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