8 Cruise Tipping Mistakes That Can Make You Look Like a Rude Passenger

Cruise gratuities aren’t always included in the advertised fare, and some onboard purchases already carry automatic service charges. Understanding the rules can help passengers avoid tipping twice or overlooking crew members. Fsendek/Shutterstock

You’ve booked your cruise, packed your bags, and started dreaming about unlimited buffets and ocean views, but there’s one expense that can catch even experienced travelers off guard: tipping. Unlike restaurants and hotels, cruise ships have their own gratuity systems, and the rules aren’t always obvious. Some passengers accidentally tip twice, while others unknowingly skip gratuities that help compensate hardworking crew members. Making matters more complicated, different cruise lines have different policies about automatic charges, specialty restaurants, and additional cash tips. Here’s a look at eight cruise tipping mistakes before boarding can help you avoid uncomfortable situations and keep your vacation budget under control.

1. Assuming Gratuities Are Included in Your Cruise Fare