Gratuities are the cruise cost everyone underestimates. For a family of four on a 7-night cruise, expect $450-600 in tips on top of the cruise fare. Here's exactly what to expect in 2026.
Daily gratuity rates by line (per guest, per day)
- Royal Caribbean: $18 (standard cabin) / $20.50 (suite)
- Carnival: $17 (standard) / $19 (suite)
- Norwegian: $20 (standard) / $25 (Haven and suites)
- Celebrity: $18 (Inside/Ocean View) / $18.50 (Balcony) / $23 (Suite)
- Disney: $16.50 per guest per day (not split into categories)
- MSC: $14.50 (standard) / $16.50 (Yacht Club)
- Princess: $17 (standard) / $19 (suite)
- Virgin Voyages: gratuities included in fare (huge perk)
Should you prepay?
Prepaying locks in today's rate. Gratuities rise every 12-18 months, and your sailing date might be after the next increase. If you're booked for late 2026 or 2027, prepay now to lock in.
Prepay also makes the on-board folio less painful at the end of the cruise. The amount is the same; the budgeting is easier.
Where does the money go?
Gratuities are split between your cabin steward, dining room waitstaff, and the broader hotel/galley team. Bartenders and bar servers are tipped separately through the 18-20% auto-grat on drink orders.
Can you remove gratuities?
Technically yes on most lines, you go to Guest Services and request removal. Realistically, please don't. The staff you're stiffing makes the cruise possible. If service is genuinely bad, raise it with management and tip individual standouts in cash.
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Written by Marissa Wright
Cruise & Beach Vacation Specialist
Marissa is a cruise specialist focused on Royal Caribbean and a lifelong cruiser. In her first year as an advisor she booked 300+ cruises across Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Celebrity, and Disney. Her planning service is always free.