Tips on Tipping

One of the most frequently asked questions by first time cruisers is how tipping and gratuities work on cruises.  We are going to break down Carnival’s recommendations and the various options that you have!

Remember that, first and foremost, tipping amounts and frequencies are ultimately your choice.  You have the freedom to tip whomever you would like as much as you would like.  Tipping is considered standard practice though, and should definitely be figured in to your cruising budget!

Carnival has created guidelines and programs to remove the guesswork from tipping.  Carnival’s recommended gratuity is $11.50 per guest, per day.  This may seem like a large amount, especially if you are taking a 6-10 day or longer cruise.  But, when we break down the amount and see the large number of services that it covers, it’s easy to see that this is a very budget-friendly tip!

Here’s the breakdown:  $5.80 is applied toward Dining Room Services.  This includes both formal and informal dining.  Gratuities for Dining Services should be figured into your budget regardless of which dining options you use.  $3.70 will go toward Stateroom Services.  This will be dispersed to the staff responsible for keeping your room clean and well stocked throughout your cruise.  And don’t forget about the people who create those awesome towel animals!  The remaining $2.00 goes to Alternative Services.  This is the catch all category.  It covers all of the fun activities and little extras that Carnival offers its guests like the amazing kitchen staff, entertainment, and guest services.

Now that you know how much to tip and who to tip, let’s go over when to tip.  Carnival has several different options available to you. 

The first option is to tip as you go.  In other words, you will tip for services throughout the day just as you would at any restaurant, resort, or hotel.     

The second option is the Pre-Paid Gratuities program.  This program allows you to pre-arrange the amount in gratuities you will pay on your cruise.  You will pay the amount prior to your sail date.  These amounts may be adjusted at Guest Services.  (If for example, you received exceptional service and wanted to increase your tip to a certain staff member.)  Be sure to make any adjustments prior to your last day onboard!

The third option is the Gratuity Program.  This program automatically charges gratuities to your Sail & Sign account on the day of embarkation. 

You will also find specially designated note cards and envelopes in your stateroom your last night onboard.  These can be used to send special notes and additional tips to staff members.  This is a great way to thank the people who made your cruise extraordinary!