What To Know
- To ensure you navigate this aspect of your cruise experience seamlessly, we present a comprehensive guide that will shed light on the intricacies of tipping on Celebrity Cruises.
- If you have a particularly exceptional experience with a crew member, consider leaving a personalized note of thanks along with your tip.
- Remember, tipping is a way to show your appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the dedicated crew members who make your cruise experience memorable.
Navigating the world of tipping on Celebrity Cruises can be a daunting task, especially for first-timers. To ensure you navigate this aspect of your cruise experience seamlessly, we present a comprehensive guide that will shed light on the intricacies of tipping on Celebrity Cruises.
Understanding the Tipping Structure
Celebrity Cruises employs a pre-paid gratuity system, where tips are automatically added to your onboard account. This system simplifies the tipping process by distributing gratuities evenly among the hardworking crew members.
How Much to Tip
The pre-paid gratuities on Celebrity Cruises are as follows:
- Suite Guests: $19.00 per guest, per day
- All Other Guests: $16.00 per guest, per day
Who Is Included in the Automatic Gratuities?
The automatic gratuities cover the following categories of crew members:
- Stateroom stewards
- Dining room staff
- Bar and lounge staff
- Fitness and spa staff
Tipping Beyond the Pre-Paid Gratuities
While the pre-paid gratuities cover the basic services, you may wish to express your appreciation for exceptional service by tipping additional amounts. Here are some guidelines:
- Stateroom Stewards: $5-$10 per day
- Dining Room Staff: $5-$10 per person, per meal
- Bar and Lounge Staff: $1-$2 per drink
- Fitness and Spa Staff: 15%-20% of the service cost
Tipping for Excursions and Specialty Dining
- Excursions: Tipping is customary for tour guides and drivers. The recommended amount varies depending on the length and quality of the tour.
- Specialty Dining: For meals at specialty restaurants, an additional 15%-20% gratuity is typically expected.
How to Tip
You can tip additional amounts by:
- Cash: Discreetly hand cash to the crew member.
- Onboard Account: Visit the Guest Services desk or use the Celebrity app to add tips to your onboard account.
- Credit Card: Provide your credit card at the end of the service and specify the amount you wish to tip.
Etiquette for Tipping
- Be Respectful: Remember that tipping is a gesture of appreciation, not an obligation.
- Discreet: Avoid drawing attention to your tips.
- Personalize: If you have a particularly exceptional experience with a crew member, consider leaving a personalized note of thanks along with your tip.
When Not to Tip
- Self-Service Areas: Tipping is not expected for services you perform yourself, such as at the buffet or self-service beverage stations.
- Mandatory Service Charges: Some services, such as room service, may have a mandatory service charge included. In such cases, additional tipping is not required.
Conclusion: Tipping with Confidence
By following these guidelines, you can navigate the tipping process on Celebrity Cruises with confidence. Remember, tipping is a way to show your appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the dedicated crew members who make your cruise experience memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is tipping mandatory on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, pre-paid gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account.
2. Can I opt out of the pre-paid gratuities?
No, the pre-paid gratuities are a mandatory part of the cruise fare.
3. How do I tip for excursions and specialty dining?
For excursions, tipping is customary for tour guides and drivers. For specialty dining, an additional 15%-20% gratuity is typically expected.
4. Is it appropriate to tip in cash?
Yes, discreetly handing cash to the crew member is an acceptable way to tip.
5. Can I add tips to my onboard account after the cruise?
No, you cannot add tips to your onboard account after the cruise has ended.
