Gratuities on princess cruises: a guide to making the right decision
What To Know
- The best way to pay gratuities on Princess Cruises is to prepay them before your cruise departure.
- By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your gratuities are paid fairly and that the staff members who make your voyage memorable are recognized for their exceptional service.
Are you planning a luxurious escape on a Princess Cruises voyage? One question that may arise is whether gratuities are included in the cruise fare. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to gratuity practices on Princess Cruises, helping you budget effectively and ensure a seamless travel experience.
What are Gratuities?
Gratuities, also known as tips, are payments made to staff members in recognition of their services. In the cruise industry, gratuities are typically paid to cabin stewards, dining room servers, and other personnel who provide exceptional care during your voyage.
Does Princess Cruises Charge Gratuities?
Yes, Princess Cruises charges gratuities. However, these gratuities are not automatically added to your bill. Instead, they are distributed among the staff members who provide you with services.
How Much are Gratuities?
The recommended gratuity amount for Princess Cruises is $15 per person, per day. This includes $10 per day for cabin stewards and $5 per day for dining room servers.
How to Pay Gratuities
You have two options for paying gratuities on Princess Cruises:
1. Prepaid Gratuities: You can prepay your gratuities before your cruise departure. This is a convenient option that ensures your gratuities are taken care of in advance.
2. Onboard Gratuities: You can pay your gratuities onboard the ship. You can either add them to your onboard account or pay in cash.
Is It Mandatory to Pay Gratuities?
While gratuities are not mandatory, they are strongly encouraged. The staff members on Princess Cruises rely on gratuities to supplement their salaries. By paying gratuities, you are showing your appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
What Happens if I Don’t Pay Gratuities?
If you choose not to pay gratuities, your account will not be charged automatically. However, it is considered poor etiquette and may affect the level of service you receive.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Gratuity Policy?
There are a few exceptions to the gratuity policy on Princess Cruises:
- Children under 18 are not charged gratuities.
- Passengers who have special needs or disabilities may be eligible for a reduced gratuity amount.
- Passengers who experience exceptional service may choose to pay a higher gratuity amount.
What is the Best Way to Pay Gratuities?
The best way to pay gratuities on Princess Cruises is to prepay them before your cruise departure. This ensures that your gratuities are distributed promptly to the staff members who provide you with services.
Recommendations
Understanding the gratuity practices on Princess Cruises is essential for planning a budget-friendly and rewarding travel experience. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your gratuities are paid fairly and that the staff members who make your voyage memorable are recognized for their exceptional service.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?
A: No, gratuities are not automatically included in the cruise fare on Princess Cruises.
Q: How much should I budget for gratuities?
A: The recommended gratuity amount for Princess Cruises is $15 per person, per day.
Q: Can I pay gratuities onboard the ship?
A: Yes, you can pay gratuities onboard the ship by adding them to your onboard account or paying in cash.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the gratuity policy?
A: Yes, children under 18, passengers with special needs or disabilities, and passengers who experience exceptional service may be eligible for exceptions.
Q: What is the best way to pay gratuities?
A: The best way to pay gratuities on Princess Cruises is to prepay them before your cruise departure.
Q: What happens if I don’t pay gratuities?
A: While gratuities are not mandatory, not paying them may affect the level of service you receive.
Q: Can I change the amount of gratuities I pay?
A: Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of gratuities you pay by contacting Princess Cruises customer service.
Q: Are gratuities charged for all services on Princess Cruises?
A: Gratuities are charged for cabin stewards, dining room servers, and other personnel who provide exceptional care during your voyage.
Q: How are gratuities distributed among the staff?
A: Gratuities are pooled and distributed among the staff members who provide services to passengers.
Q: Can I give gratuities directly to individual staff members?
A: While not prohibited, it is not recommended to give gratuities directly to individual staff members.