Is there a way to save on gratuity fees?
A dollar or two may not seem like much, but those do add up, especially if you’re on a lengthy voyage. But it’s important to remember that whatever you pay in tips will be distributed among the crew members, most of whom provide exemplary service to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Cruise lines charge them in advance, include them in fares, or tack them onto your onboard bill only as a way of streamlining the tipping setup.
Still, if you discover that the rising gratuity fees are cutting too much into your vacation budget, cruise lines like Royal Caribbean recommend prepaying before subsequent price hikes kick in, so you won’t be affected by the increase. But paying well in advance eliminates the chance to adjust your tips accordingly in the event that you experience less-than-stellar service. Alternatively, if you’re unsatisfied with the service given to you, some cruise lines also offer the option to have your tip adjusted to an amount you think is fair. More often than not, it only requires a trip to guest services.
Or, you know, you can always return to the old-school way of tipping: paying in cash. This way, you get to have a say on how to extend your gratitude to staff members instead of following a pre-determined amount. Just be sure to check in with guest services before you embark to see if this option is aligned with the cruise line’s policies. Bon voyage!
