Dear Steve and Russ, Is tipping necessary? How much?
Tips stand for “To Insure Prompt Service,” and it is always up to you. Your wait staff, steward and ship’s staff know this as well. Although a few cruise lines have a no tipping policy, a general rule of thumb is to plan for about $2.50 to $3.00 per person per day each for your room steward and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. Anyone else who makes your cruise special or memorable should be tipped at your discretion. Gratuities are customarily given on the last evening of your cruise. On many cruise lines it is now possible to prepay the above gratuities. On most cruise lines a 15% gratuity is automatically added to your on board account for beverage purchases which you may adjust according to services rendered.
