cruise gratuities disney

How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise?  Your Guide to Gratuities

Tipping is often a source of confusion on Disney cruises. Does gratuity come with the fare? If not, when should you tip, and how much? How does tipping work on a Disney Cruise?  Here are the answers you need to know.

Note: Disney updated its standard gratuity amounts in July 2022.  This article has been updated to reflect the new amounts.

Is Tipping Included in the Cost of a Disney Cruise?

The cost of a Disney cruise covers your stateroom , activities, and dining experiences (except for specialty dining). But there’s one thing that’s not included in the base price of a Disney cruise: gratuities. Even though gratuities are technically optional, it is customary to tip certain crew members, and Disney expects you to do it.

In some situations, gratuities are automatically added to your stateroom account; in others, you decide whether to tip.

When are Automatic Gratuities Added to your Account?

There are four Crew Members Disney always expects you to tip, as they serve you for the entire duration of your cruise.  To simplify the tipping process, Disney automatically charges these gratuities to your onboard account at the end of your cruise (unless you have prepaid the gratuities or instructed Guest Services not to add them).

Which Crew Members Are Covered by Automatic Gratuities?

The four tipping positions associated with automatic gratuities are your stateroom host/hostess and three members of your regular dining room serving crew:

Your designated dining room server is responsible for taking care of the table service during dinner at the rotational dining restaurants .

Disney adds $4.75 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Server. 

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Server for the length of your cruise (in total):

• For a 3-night cruise: $14.25
• For a 4-night cruise: $19.00
• For a 7-night cruise: $33.25

Assistant Server

This person assists your dining room server with the drinks, food, and cleanup.

Disney adds $3.75 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Assistant Server.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Assistant Server for the length of your cruise (in total):

• For a 3-night cruise: $11.25
• For a 4-night cruise: $15.00
• For a 7-night cruise: $26.25

Dining Room Head Server

The Head Server acts as a maître d’. You will be assigned a Head Server, who will check in with you and ensure you are satisfied with your dining experience, and oversees the other servers.

Disney adds $1.25 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Head Server.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Head Server for the length of your cruise (in total):

• For a 3-night cruise: $3.75
• For a 4-night cruise: $5.00
• For a 7-night cruise: $8.75

Stateroom Host/Hostess

Your Stateroom Host/Hostess is the person who cleans your stateroom every day. They are responsible for making your bed, turning it down at night, leaving chocolate, etc.

Disney adds $4.75 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Stateroom Host.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Stateroom Host for the length of your cruise (in total):

For those staying in a Concierge-level room, additional tipping is customary for the Stateroom Assistant Host and the Concierge Lounge staff.

Stateroom on the Disney Dream

To calculate the total amount of automatic gratuity you are expected to pay, add up the total nightly tips for each of these four categories ($4.75 + $3.75 + 1.25 + $4.75 = $14.50 ), then multiply that by the number of people sailing (regardless of age) and by the number of nights your cruise will last.

For example, a couple on a 3-night cruise should expect to tip $87.00 ($14.50 x 2 x 3).

A family of four on a 7-night cruise will have a suggested tip of $406 ($14.50 x 4 x 7).

Most people find that Disney’s automatic gratuities process helps simplify the tipping process. However, you may wish to do things differently. You can request to adjust these amounts, pay gratuities in cash, or pre-pay before your cruise begins (see below).

Note : The Dining Room Manager may also be tipped, though most people do not. Additionally, if any of the service crew members do not provide the quality of service you expect, please let management know immediately. Disney Cruise Line will do everything it can to rectify the situation. They will also accommodate your dietary needs if you make them known before ordering.

How do you Pre-Pay Gratuities on a Disney Cruise?

Gratuities are added to your Disney cruise account automatically prior to the end of your cruise as a default. It is also possible to pay the suggested tip in advance by contacting either Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent no later than three days before the cruise starts .

If you prefer to pay for everything before you step aboard, that’s great! Just make sure you pre-pay the tips at least three days before your departure date, and you’ll have nothing to worry about on your cruise.

If you have questions about tipping on Disney cruises, want to step up your pre-payments, or wonder how much a Disney cruise will cost , it’s time to contact The Vacationeer . They can provide up to $1,000 in FREE Disney onboard credit , Disney’s best available pricing, and expert planning advice and assistance.

Can you Remove Gratuities on a Disney Cruise?

Yes, you can remove, reduce, or increase the automatic gratuities on a Disney cruise by visiting Guest Services during the cruise. 

Disney automatically charges your onboard account the standard tip amounts (unless you pre-pay). No tip amount is set in stone, so Disney allows you to adjust them before the cruise ends if you want to give more or wish to give less; just contact Guest Services onboard your Disney Cruise .

How Do my Crew Members Know I Tipped Them?

At the end of your cruise, you will receive four envelopes and a sheet detailing all automatic tips that have been charged to your room folio.  This sheet is perforated so you can separate the section relating to each Crew Member and place it in the envelope (along with additional cash should you desire).

You may give these envelopes directly to the serving team on the last night at dinner or at breakfast on your final morning.  For your stateroom hostess, you may give the envelope to them in person or leave it in your room.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a chance to pass a tip envelope to a particular Crew Member… they’ll still receive the appropriate amount designated for them in your stateroom folio (but of course won’t get any actual cash you might have included).

Tipping Envelopes are provided at the end of your Disney Cruise

To summarize how Disney’s automatic gratuities work, you can 1. let Disney charge your account automatically, 2. pre-pay your gratuities, or 3. pass out individual envelopes with cash. It’s up to you! Just let your travel agent or Guest Services know if you wish to do something other than automatic gratuities.

Are Tips included at Palo and Remy?

Specialty dining on Disney cruises is a step above the regular dining room experience and is not included in a Disney cruise’s base price. You can choose between Palo and Remy, which both offer exquisite cuisine and an intimate setting.

Regarding tipping, an 18% gratuity will automatically be applied at dinner at Palo & Remy . However, you can also add additional gratuity if you feel that the service warrants it. For brunch, tips are included in the dining charge, but you can add gratuity if you desire . Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much to tip, but remember that the staff greatly appreciates the extra gratuity.

How Does Tipping Work at Bars and Clubs ?

Bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs will be automatically charged an 18% gratuity. Gratuities may be charged to your stateroom folio.

A gratuity of 18% will be automatically added to any drink ordered from a bartender, whether it is non-alcoholic or alcoholic. Sodas, bottled water, and alcohol ordered from room service will also have an automatic gratuity. Additionally, your server will add a gratuity to your bill if you order bottled water, a smoothie, or alcohol in the dining rooms.

Do you Tip for Room Service on a Disney Cruise?

Room service is one of the many perks of being on cruising with Disney . You can order anything you want, and it will be brought right to your stateroom door. Best of all, with the exception of a few packaged items and drinks, room service is complimentary. However, even though there is no charge for the food, it is customary to tip the person who brings it to your room .

You can add a tip to your onboard account when you sign the bill or give a cash tip. Most people leave a tip of at least $5. Whether or not you choose to tip is up to you.

Do you have questions about gratuities on the Disney Cruise Line? Contact the DCL experts at The Vacationeer for answers.

They can also advise you on the best Disney cruise ships , tell you which Disney Cruises depart from Florida , share their favorite Castaway Cay tips , and give you helpful ways to save money on a Disney cruise .

Contact The Vacationeer for a free, no-obligation quote today!

Are Gratuities Included for Spa Services?

Senses Spa & Salon offers a wide range of spa services, including massages, facials, and other pampering services. Unfortunately, the cost of spa services is not included in the Disney cruise nor its per-night automatic gratuities (though we still consider spa treatments at Senses to be a worthy splurge ).

That said, an 18% gratuity will automatically be applied to all spa services you receive. You do not need to add more unless you are so inclined. 

Senses Spa & Salon | Image © Disney

Can you use Cash on a Disney Cruise Ship?

When planning a Disney cruise, one question that often arises is whether you can use cash onboard the ship. The answer is that all onboard purchases are charged back to your stateroom folio, but you can use cash to pay that folio.  You can also give tips via cash if you wish.   Here are a few things to keep in mind.

To begin with, you may use the credit card on file, American Express Travelers Cheques denominated in USD (United States Dollars), or pay with cash. Secondly, you must settle all charges before you leave the ship. This means that if you plan on using cash, you’ll need to have enough to cover your entire bill (or at least have a second payment method to use as well). Lastly, remember that gratuities are not included in your cruise fare, so you’ll need to have cash on hand to tip bus drivers, porters, tour guides, etc

When you’re off the ship at a port (except for Disney’s private island Castaway Cay ), your shipboard folio is no good for payment.  Local currency or a credit/debit card is needed.

It’s generally best to bring a mix of cash and other forms of payment when cruising with Disney. That way, you’ll be prepared for anything.

How Much Do you Tip a Porter on a Disney Cruise?

Remember to bring small bills with you. This will make it easier to tip porters and bus drivers without breaking larger bills. Second, if you use Disney transportation (or any other transportation services), consider giving your bus driver a few dollars after arriving.

You should also tip people who assist you with your luggage, whether they’re unloading your bags from a bus or bringing them to your stateroom. It’s up to you how much you tip.

Should you Tip the Tour Guides on Port Adventures? 

If you’re taking a Disney cruise, consider bringing some cash to tip your tour guides and drivers. While it’s not required, it’s good etiquette to show your appreciation for their service with a gratuity.

Most guides and drivers are very familiar with the customs of their home country, so they can be a valuable resource for information about what to see and do during your trip. They may also be able to provide insights into the culture that you wouldn’t get from reading a guidebook.

Tipping is generally done in cash, and US dollars are widely accepted in many foreign ports, so if you’re planning to take an excursion while on your cruise, be sure to bring some cash to show your appreciation for your guides and drivers.

How Does Tipping Work for the Concierge Level?

Prepare to tip even more if you are sailing at the concierge level . Concierge hosts rely heavily on tips, so be sure to tip generously . How much you tip is always up to you, but Disney now recommends at least $8 per passenger, per night, for the Concierge Lounge hosts.  In addition, you’ll find your Concierge Stateroom Assistant Host is factored into the nightly automatic gratuities normally reserved only for the Stateroom Host and dining room staff. Remember that your concierge hosts are there to make your cruise as enjoyable as possible, so don’t hesitate to give them a little extra if they go above and beyond.

Are you expected to Tip for Disney Babysitting Services?

On a Disney Cruise, gratuity is not expected for babysitting services . However, if you feel that the babysitter did an exceptional job and you would like to show your appreciation, you may do so at your discretion.

Do you have questions? Are you ready to book your Disney Cruise? The Vacationeer can help!

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, please contact our friends at The Vacationeer . Their services are always helpful and free of charge!

We hope our How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise article will help you prepare for your magical vacation at sea. Happy sailing!

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Understanding Disney Cruise Line Gratuities: A Complete Guide

Understanding the gratuity system is an essential part of planning your Disney Cruise Line vacation. You'll learn about automatic gratuities, recommended extra tips, and how to give thanks to your servers and room host.

Disney Cruise Line recommends gratuities of $14.50 per person, per night for guests in non-concierge staterooms. Concierge guests are recommended to tip $15.50 per person, per night, which is automatically added to the onboard account.

Tipping Customs

• Gratuities are an integral part of the service culture on Disney Cruise Line.
• Guests can adjust automatic gratuity charges to match their service experience.
• Pre-payment of gratuities is an available option for added convenience.

On this page:

Details of disney cruise line gratuities, understanding gratuities on disney cruise line, how to pre-pay gratuities, gratuities for special services, additional gratuities and tipping etiquette, managing gratuities while onboard, frequently asked questions about gratuities.

Understanding the gratuity system on a Disney Cruise Line can ensure that you are prepared for the additional costs that will be added to your onboard account and also helps you appreciate the crew members who provide you with exceptional service.

Automatic vs. Manual Gratuity

Automatic gratuities are charges that Disney Cruise Line adds to your onboard account for certain services during your cruise. This convenience means you don't have to worry about tipping individual crew members.

• Manual gratuity , on the other hand, is at your discretion. You may give additional tips in cash for exemplary service or for services outside the standard gratuity schedule, such as room service.

Service Charges Per Day

Disney Cruise Line recommends a standard gratuity rate per person, per night . These gratuities cover most of the service staff that directly assist you.

• Recommended gratuity amounts :

Gratuities for Different Services

Specific crew members are recognized through Disney Cruise Line's gratuity system, ensuring that those who contribute directly to your experience are adequately compensated.

Included services :

• Your stateroom host or hostess maintains your room.
• Dining room servers and assistant servers care for your mealtime needs.

For services like room service , an additional gratuity is appreciated, though not automatically included.

Remember, these gratuities on Disney Cruise Line are shared among the crew members to acknowledge their hard work and dedication to making your cruise a memorable one.

Gratuities are an important aspect of your Disney Cruise experience, appreciated by the crew members for the outstanding service they provide.

The Role of Gratuities

Gratuities on Disney Cruise Line are a way for you to thank your crew for their exceptional service throughout your voyage. These tips are distributed among various crew members, including your dining room server, assistant server, head server , and stateroom host .

Gratuity Guidelines

Disney Cruise recommends a gratuity amount of $14.50 USD per night, per guest . This amount is shared between the crew members who directly contribute to making your stay comfortable and memorable. You have the option to pre-pay these gratuities, ensuring a seamless end to your magical journey. For your convenience, here are the suggested daily gratuity amounts:

• Dining room server : $4.50 per guest
• Dining room assistant server : $3.50 per guest
• Dining room head server : $1.00 per guest
• Stateroom host : $4.50 per guest

By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you help maintain the high standard of service and dedication from the Disney Cruise crew members you'll encounter on your voyage.

When planning your Disney Cruise, you can opt for an all-inclusive experience by pre-paying gratuities. This convenient option helps you budget ahead and enjoy your vacation without worrying about end-of-cruise charges.

Benefits of Pre-Paying

• No End-of-Cruise Surprises : Pre-pay your gratuities to avoid unexpected charges on your final bill.
• Streamline Your Budget : Knowing all costs upfront makes it easier to plan your cruise budget.

Pre-Paying Process

To pre-pay gratuities for your Disney cruise, simply follow these steps:

Access Your Account :

• Log in to your Disney Cruise Line account online.

Navigate to Reservations :

• Choose the My Reservations section.

Follow Pre-Pay Instructions :

• Select the option for Pre-Paid Gratuities and follow the necessary steps to complete payment.

Contact Your Travel Agent (if applicable):

• If you booked through a travel agent, request their assistance to pre-pay gratuities on your behalf.

By pre-paying, you ensure a seamless and carefree experience as you sail with Disney.

When sailing with Disney Cruise Line, apart from the standard gratuities, you may encounter various special services that require additional tipping. These include Concierge Level amenities and exclusive experiences such as Spa treatments and specialty dining options.

Concierge Level Services

Your experience with the Concierge Lounge Team can be further enhanced through discretionary tipping. Gratuities for the Concierge team are not included in the prepaid gratuity costs or the standard service fees. When you receive personalized assistance beyond the general concierge offerings, consider acknowledging their exceptional service with a tip.

• Recommendation : Follow your discretion based on the level of service provided

Spa and Exclusive Dining

For appointments at the onboard Spa , gratuity is typically not included in the price of the service. It’s customary to tip the spa therapist if you feel satisfied with the service received.

• Spa Gratuity Suggestion : 18-20% of the service fee

Exclusive dining experiences like Remy and Palo also invite additional gratuities for the premium service they offer. These tips can be added to your bill at the end of the meal.

• Palo : $5-10 per person
• Remy : $15-25 per person

When booking Port Adventures , the gratuities for tour operators and guides are not included and should be given based on the quality of the excursion experience.

• Tip : Bring small bills for convenient tipping during shore excursions

Remember, these gratuities are a means to show your appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the crew and staff who ensure your cruise experience is memorable.

While cruising with Disney, you may encounter moments where the exceptional service you receive goes above and beyond what you anticipated. Knowing how and when to reward such service is an important aspect of your cruise experience.

Rewarding Exceptional Service

When you experience service that delights and surprises, offering an additional gratuity is a customary way to show appreciation. Disney Cruise Line automatically adds standard gratuities to your account, but unique circumstances often merit extra recognition. Whether it's your stateroom host going the extra mile to celebrate a special event you're having on board or a particularly memorable dining service, consider handing over an envelope with a little extra to express your gratitude.

Typical additional gratuities:

• Stateroom host: $1-$2 extra per night
• Dining Team: 10-15% of your dining bill
• Exceptional personal service: Discretionary

It's important to remember that these additional tips are entirely at your discretion and should reflect your personal experience and satisfaction with the service provided.

Calculator and Tools

Calculating your tipping can be quite straightforward with the help of a gratuity calculator. These tools will help you estimate the standard gratuities covered on your Disney Cruise and assist in understanding what additional charges might be appropriate for those exceptional service providers.

Here is how to use these tools effectively:

• Enter the number of nights of your cruise.
• Add the number of people in your party.
• Review the standard gratuity amounts provided.
• Adjust the figures to account for any exceptional service you wish to reward.

By using a gratuity calculator, you ensure that no member of the cruise staff is overlooked and that your additional gratuities are fair and proportionate to the service received.

When you’re on a Disney cruise, understanding how to manage gratuities for the exceptional service received is crucial. Gratuities are a way to thank the crew for their hard work, and Disney Cruise Line makes it convenient for you to handle this aspect of your trip.

Adjustments and Disputes

If you feel the service on your cruise either surpassed expectations or fell short, you can speak to Guest Services to make adjustments to gratuity amounts. It's essential that you review your gratuities before the end of the cruise to ensure that any changes are processed in time.

• To increase gratuities: Simply inform Guest Services, and they’ll update your onboard account accordingly.
• To decrease gratuities: Discuss your concerns with Guest Services. They can assist with any disputes and modify the gratuities if necessary.

Tracking Expenses

Throughout your cruise, it's easy to oversee the gratuities added to your onboard account. You’ll receive a breakdown of suggested gratuity amounts, which are typically charged per person, per day.

• Stateroom Guest Receipts: Detailed receipts will be provided to you, displaying the suggested gratuities and any you've elected to adjust.
• Onboard Account Access: Check your current expenses, including gratuities, at any time using the Disney Cruise Line app or the in-room television system.

Keeping track of these expenses helps you manage your budget and ensures that the crew members who contribute to your cruise experience are duly recognized.

When planning your Disney Cruise adventure, understanding the gratuity policies is essential to ensure you're prepared for the customary tipping practices and budget accordingly.

Common Concerns

How much should you tip on a Disney Cruise? Tipping is an integral part of the Disney Cruise experience, to acknowledge the exceptional service during your voyage. You're expected to tip various members of the ship's staff, including your dining room server, head server, and others. As of the current guidelines, the customary amount is around $14.50 per person per day , which can be prepaid or charged to your onboard account.

Methods of Payment How can you pay for gratuities on board? You have the flexibility to pre-pay gratuities before your cruise, allow them to be automatically added to your onboard account, or distribute them in cash using individual envelopes. Whichever method you choose, Disney Cruise Line makes it convenient for you to provide gratuities.

Myths and Misconceptions

Assumption: Gratuities are included in the Disney Cruise package. A common myth is that gratuities are included in the cruise fare. It's important to know that while Disney Cruise Line offers an abundance of services and amenities, gratuities are not included in your initial payment. They are separate charges meant to reward the crew for their hard work and dedication.

Do you need to tip for all ages? Many passengers wonder whether they need to include tips for every family member. Yes, Disney Cruise Line recommends tipping for each person, regardless of age, to account for the extensive service everyone enjoys. This ensures that all members of the service team are appropriately recognized for their efforts.

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Disney Cruise Line Gratuities (What to Know about Tipping)

If you’re preparing for a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you may be looking for information on the tipping process. Some first time cruisers assume that gratuities are included in the price of the cruise fare, and they don’t realize that tips are actually an added cost. 

Since tip amounts are automatically added to your onboard account at the end of your trip, it’s a good idea to know exactly how much to budget for gratuities. This way, you aren’t completely shocked when you receive your final statement.

In this post, we will discuss the price of Disney cruise gratuities, including a breakdown each cast member position who receives these tips. We will also explain the Disney Cruise Line tipping guidelines for concierge guests along with other crew members you may want to tip during your vacation.

How much are gratuities?

If you’re wanting to plan ahead and determine the amount to budget for Disney cruise gratuities, it’s actually super easy to calculate. You just need to know the length of your cruise and the number of people in your cabin.

It’s also handy to have a calculator nearby, so you can multiply the numbers easily. Disney Cruise Line recommends a gratuity amount of $14.50 per person per night. So, in order to calculate the amount your family will owe for gratuities, you would multiply:

$14.50 X Number of People in Cabin X Length of Cruise = Amount You Owe

For example, a family of four who is taking a seven night cruise would owe $406 for gratuities. 

$14.50 X 4 People X 7 Nights = $406

It’s important to note that every member of your family is included in these calculations. Many families often ask if they have to pay gratuities for a baby or a toddler. The answer is Yes. And, after cruising with a toddler , I totally see why! I think my family’s stateroom attendant and dining team worked harder for my toddler than they did for any of the other members of our family.

From removing soiled diapers from our cabin to preparing bite-sized foods at each meal, the crew members really go out of their way to ease the stress off of the parents.

Prepaid Gratuities

You can pay your Disney Cruise Line gratuities in a couple different ways. Many families like to pre-pay their gratuities, so they don’t have to worry about the cost after their vacation. This allows the cruise to feel more like an all-inclusive trip.

In order to pre-pay your tips, you just need to login to your Disney Cruise Line account and follow the directions to pay gratuities upfront. (Note that travel agents will need to do this for cruisers who booked through a travel agent.)

If you do not want to prepay your gratuities, you can pay them on the ship at the end of your cruise. On the final evening, your stateroom attendant will place disembarkation instructions in your cabin. These directions will outline the procedures for your last night and final morning onboard the ship.

Disney Cruise Tipping

In addition to the debarkation instructions, your stateroom attendant will leave gratuity tickets and envelopes in your cruise cabin. Each envelope will name a specific service position, including server, assistant server, head server, and stateroom attendant. (To those new to the Disney rotational dining rooms process, the three servers rotate with your family each night of the cruise so that you have the same serving team every evening at dinner.)

The serving team and stateroom attendant receive a specified gratuity amount from the recommended $14.50 per person per day. In other words, Disney Cruise Line breaks down the $14.50 as follows:

• $4.75 to your server in the rotational dining restaurants
• $3.75 to your assistant dining room server
• $1.25 to your dining room head server
• $4.75 to your stateroom attendant 

If you want to figure out the total amount of gratuities for each position, you just multiply the amount for that cast member times the number of people in your stateroom times the length of the cruise.

Note that you don’t have to actually calculate any of this onboard. The amounts are printed directly on the gratuity tickets, so it’s a super easy process. I just wanted to explain what the formula for each position looks like.

$4.75 for Server X 4 People X 7 Nights = $133 Total for Server

Each gratuity ticket in your stateroom will list the amount that the specified crew member gets tipped. For example, a family of four on a 7-night cruise would find gratuity tickets that look like this:

• Server – $133
• Assistant Server – $105
• Head Server – $35
• Stateroom Attendant – $133

All you have to do onboard is just put the ticket labeled “server” into the envelope that says “server” and so forth until each ticket is inside its corresponding envelope. At the end of the cruise, each tip amount will be automatically taken out of your account with the credit card on file.

Also, you are free to make adjustments to the amounts listed. In order to do this, you can visit Guest Services. Or you can just add cash to the envelope if you’re wanting to increase the tip amount.

Concierge Tip Calculator

Disney Cruise Line recently announced recommendations for concierge Level tips. concierge guests will see total recommended gratuity amounts of $15.50 per person per day. These gratuities are broken down the same as above with the addition of an assistant stateroom host.

The stateroom hosts (aka stateroom attendants) clean your cruise cabin and bathrooms each morning. They also provide turndown service each evening and even leave special treats and towel animals for guests. The concierge gratuities can be broken down as follows:

• $4.75 to your server
• $3.75 to your assistant server
• $1.25 to your head server
• $4.75 to your stateroom host 
• $1.00 to your stateroom assistant host

Additionally, one of the concierge perks for guests is the use of a private lounge with food and beverages. Concierge guests also have access to a Concierge Lounge Team who provide extra services.

Since these cast members are not included in the recommended gratuities listed above, Disney Cruise Line has a suggested gratuity amount of $8.00 per stateroom guest per night for these concierge hosts. So, a family of four sailing on a seven-night cruise would tip the Concierge team:

$8.00 X 4 People X 7 Nights = $224

Again, this is in addition to the recommended gratuities of $15.50 listed above. You can read more about my family’s experience with Disney Cruise Line’s Concierge Level in this post – Upgrading to Concierge at the Port .

Additional Charges

In addition to the service positions listed above, guests sailing on the Disney Cruise Line ships may also tip at other times. Some items and people you may need to tip on your cruise include (but are not limited to):

• Specialty Drinks in the Dining Rooms
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Senses Spa Services
• Adult-only Specialty Restaurants
• Room Service
• Porters at Cruise Terminal
• Port Adventures

It’s always a good idea to bring along several $1 and $5 bills for tipping crew members. Even though the cast members onboard the ship are easy to tip through your card on file, you will probably want to have cash on hand for others you come into contact with throughout your trip. For example, my family and I like to travel with small bills to tip people like the porters who handle our luggage and the driver who drops us off at the cruise port.

You can find more tips like this in our post on Disney Cruise Line Secrets for First Timers .)

Final Thoughts on Tipping on a Disney Cruise

Overall, the tipping process onboard the ships is really straightforward and easy. If you choose to take advantage of pre-paid gratuities, you won’t have to worry about the main Disney cruise gratuities at the end of your trip. Those families who prefer to pay gratuities on the final night of their trip will find the procedures super easy as well.

You just place each pre-printed ticket into the correct envelope. If you have any questions while on board, you can visit the Guest Services desk to speak to a cast member for additional guidance. We hope you enjoy the world-class service you’ll receive on your Disney cruise as you make life-long memories with your family!

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On a side note, if you’re looking for a way to organize all of your Disney Cruise Line planning tips and budget information, check out my printable Disney Cruise Planner! Featuring over 30 pages of planning help, the Disney Cruise planning guide helps you organize your trip from beginning to end.

The printable planner includes the following:

• Cruise Packing List
• Blank Packing List
• Outfit Planner
• Daily Itinerary
• Flight Comparison Sheet
• Hotel Comparison Sheet
• Transportation Comparison Sheet
• Cruise Budget
• Sample Itineraries (from my personal cruises)

Do you prepay your Disney cruise gratuities? Comment below to share your own tips!

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Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Question…so if you pre-pay gratuities (which we did for our April cruise), you don’t do anything with the envelopes or give anything to your servers? I was under the impression we still gave them something that indicated we had pre-paid. This is our first Disney cruise so I’m just trying to figure it all out!

Hi Jillian,

On the final evening of your cruise, you should receive gratuities envelopes AND printed slips of paper stating how much you pre-paid for each position. You put the slips of paper in each corresponding envelope to hand to the servers. So, you are basically just handing them paper with a dollar amount printed on it. You can add additional cash to the envelope if you feel inclined, but it’s not necessary. Hope that helps!

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Disney Cruise Line Gratuities (What You Need to Know)

By: Author Kristi

If you are in the midst of planning a Disney Cruise , it might help to know what to expect when it comes to Disney Cruise Line Gratuities. While Disney Cruise Line will give you an idea on how much they expect you to give, you do have the choice on exactly how much gratuities you give out.

You should base this on both Disney Cruise Line’s tipping guidelines and your personal experience with the staff.

All Disney Cruise gratuities (with the exception of the bar) will be done at the end of your cruise (usually the night before debarkation), so you will have a good chance to reflect on your entire cruise experience prior to leaving gratuities.

These tips can be paid in cash or gratuity can be added to your on board account and charged to the card you have on file.

What you need to know about Disney Cruise Gratuities

Your stateroom host.

You will meet your stateroom host on the day your arrive and can expect to see him/her daily the rest of your cruise. The stateroom host will come to your room twice a day (to change linens and clean up).

They will also do fun things like decorate your room for a special occasion, leave chocolates on your pillows during turn down service and use towels (and sometimes your personal items) to make cute animals!

Disney Cruise Line recommends tipping your stateroom host $4 per guest per night of your cruise.

Restaurant Servers

If you eat at any of the Disney Cruise Line Main Dining restaurants , you will have a server, assistant server and head server who will stay with you during your entire voyage.

As you change restaurants, your servers do the same. Your main server will be responsible for your meals and the assistant typically handles your drink orders.

The head server is in charge of the entire team of servers and usually visits your table once at the end of your meal to inform you of the next days restaurant.

This Disney Cruise Line recommend tipping your server $4 per person per night, assistant $3 per person per night, and $1 per person per night for the head server.

During your cruise, you may decide to have a mixed beverage from the bar or through a bar attendant at the pool.

You need to be aware that Disney Cruise Line automatically adds a 15% gratuity to all beverages purchased in restaurants, bars, poolside and on the beach at Castaway Cay.

Room Service

As many already know, room service is FREE on a Disney Cruise . While the meal is free, you might want to leave a tip for the attendant that brings the food to your room.

It is customary to give them a few dollars in cash, but it isn’t required.

Do you have any questions about Disney Cruise Line Gratuities?

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Friday 2nd of September 2016

So what is the gratitiy thAt you pay when you pay for the cruise?

Monday 8th of August 2016

Question....regarding bartenders, if 15% gratuity is automatically charged, should I tip more when I sign for it? I wasn't aware of this, so I was adding more money to my bill when I signed.

When you sign the slip, the tip is already figured in the total. You may choose to leave extra money if your service was better than expected.

• Cruise and Hotels
• Disney Cruise
• Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained

Title: Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained

Introduction: Embarking on a Disney Cruise is an enchanting experience for both young and old. From the moment you step onboard, you are treated to exceptional service and unforgettable entertainment. However, one aspect that often confuses guests is the topic of gratuities. To ensure a smooth sailing experience, it is crucial to understand the tipping policies on a Disney Cruise.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of Disney Cruise gratuities, providing you with valuable tips and insights to help you navigate this aspect of your vacation. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Disney enthusiast, this guide will equip you with all the necessary information to make informed decisions and ensure a memorable trip.

Table: Disney Cruise Gratuities – Key Points

| Key Points | Description | |—————————-|————————————————————————————————-| | What are gratuities? | Understand the concept and purpose of gratuities on a Disney Cruise. | | How much to tip? | Explore the recommended gratuity amounts for different service providers on the ship. | | Automatic vs. Additional | Learn about the automatic gratuity charges and the option to provide additional tips. | | Adjusting gratuities | Discover how to modify the pre-set gratuity amounts based on your satisfaction with the service. | | Gratuities for children | Find out about the guidelines for tipping when traveling with children. |

H2: Understanding Disney Cruise Gratuities H3: The Purpose of Gratuities H3: Who to Tip and How Much H3: Automatic vs. Additional Gratuities H3: Adjusting Gratuities to Reflect Service Quality H3: Gratuities for Children Onboard

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our guide, we have gathered information from trusted sources such as Disney Cruise Line’s official website [1] and reputable travel forums like Cruise Critic [2]. By following this ultimate guide, you will be well-prepared to navigate the world of Disney Cruise gratuities and show appreciation to the exceptional crew members who make your voyage truly magical.

[1]: https://disneycruise.disney.go. [2]: https://www.cruisecritic.

What happens if you don t prepay gratuities on Disney Cruise?

When you don’t prepay gratuities on a Disney Cruise, it’s important to know that gratuities are still expected and will be automatically added to your onboard account. These gratuities cover the exceptional service provided by the hardworking crew members who contribute to your memorable cruise experience. Disney Cruise Line suggests a standard gratuity amount per person, per night, based on your stateroom category. If you choose not to prepay, the charges will be added to your account at the end of your cruise. It’s worth noting that prepaying gratuities can offer convenience and peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without worrying about additional charges. For more detailed information, check out the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained.

How much do you tip Disney Cruise staff?

When it comes to tipping Disney Cruise staff, it is important to understand the guidelines and policies in place. Disney Cruise Line recommends tipping crew members who provide exceptional service during your voyage. The standard gratuity amount is $13.50 per person, per day, which covers your dining room server, assistant server, head server, and stateroom host/hostess. However, it is worth noting that these amounts can be adjusted based on the level of service you receive. Additionally, guests have the option to prepay gratuities or make adjustments onboard. For more information and a detailed breakdown of the tipping policies, please refer to the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained.

Can you remove gratuities on Disney Cruise?

When it comes to gratuities on a Disney Cruise, guests often wonder if they have the option to remove them. According to the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained, it is possible to adjust or remove gratuities by visiting Guest Services onboard the ship. However, it is important to note that gratuities play a crucial role in the service industry and are an essential part of the crew members’ income. While guests have the freedom to make adjustments, it is highly encouraged to recognize and appreciate the hard work and exceptional service provided by the dedicated crew members. For a more comprehensive understanding of Disney Cruise gratuities and policies, visit [insert reliable source or link here].

Is gratuities different from tips on a cruise?

Gratuities and tips on a Disney cruise may seem similar, but they actually have distinct differences. Gratuities are predetermined service charges that are automatically added to your onboard account, while tips are additional amounts given directly to crew members for exceptional service. The Disney Cruise Line has specific guidelines for gratuity amounts based on the length of the cruise and the stateroom category. It is important to note that gratuities are subject to change and can be adjusted at guest services during the cruise. It is customary to tip extra for exceptional service, and crew members greatly appreciate it. For more detailed information on Disney Cruise gratuities and tips, refer to the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained.

Disney cruise gratuities calculator

Calculating gratuities on a Disney cruise can be made easier with the help of the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained. This comprehensive resource provides valuable information on the various tipping policies and guidelines followed by Disney Cruise Line. By using the Disney cruise gratuities calculator featured in the guide, passengers can accurately determine the recommended gratuity amount for their specific sailing. The calculator takes into account factors such as the length of the cruise, the number of guests in the stateroom, and the different service teams onboard. With clear and concise instructions, this tool ensures that guests can show their appreciation to the hardworking crew members who provide exceptional service throughout their Disney cruise experience. For further details and a step-by-step guide on how to use the calculator, refer to the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Gratuities: Tips and Policies Explained.

In this comprehensive guide to Disney Cruise gratuities, we have explored various tips and policies to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of onboard tipping. We understand that planning a Disney Cruise vacation involves not only choosing the perfect itinerary but also understanding the gratuity guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both guests and crew members.

One key aspect to keep in mind is that Disney Cruise Line has a unique approach to gratuities compared to other cruise lines. Rather than a traditional tipping system, Disney employs a service charge per guest per day, which covers gratuities for dining and stateroom services. This system provides convenience and transparency for guests, eliminating the need to carry cash and calculate individual tips.

It is important to note that these service charges are automatically added to your onboard account and can be adjusted or removed if necessary. However, it is generally recommended to maintain the suggested gratuity amounts, as they are designed to fairly compensate the hardworking crew members who go above and beyond to create magical experiences for guests.

When it comes to understanding the breakdown of these service charges, it is crucial to be aware of the different categories involved. Disney Cruise Line divides the service charges into three main areas: dining room services, stateroom services, and other shipboard services. Each category has a specific recommended gratuity amount, which can be found on Disney Cruise Line’s official website.

To ensure you are well-informed about the tipping policies, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines for your chosen itinerary. These guidelines may vary depending on the length of your cruise and the number of guests in your party. It is also worth noting that concierge-level guests have different suggested gratuity amounts, reflecting the enhanced services provided in this category.

While the service charges cover most aspects of gratuities on a Disney Cruise, it is customary to tip additional onboard experiences, such as specialty dining and spa services. These additional gratuities are not included in the service charges and should be given directly to the appropriate crew members. It is always a good idea to carry some cash for these purposes.

For those who want to express their appreciation to exceptional crew members, Disney Cruise Line offers an optional gratuity program called “Tips on Demand.” This program allows guests to recognize exceptional service by providing additional gratuities beyond the recommended amounts. It is a wonderful way to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of individuals who have made your cruise experience truly memorable.

In conclusion, understanding the gratuity guidelines on a Disney Cruise is essential for a seamless and enjoyable vacation. By familiarizing yourself with the service charges, recommended gratuity amounts, and additional tipping opportunities, you can ensure that the crew members who make your trip magical are properly compensated for their exceptional service.

To delve further into this topic and gain more insights into Disney Cruise gratuities, we recommend visiting the official Disney Cruise Line website, where you can find detailed information on tipping policies, service charge breakdowns, and additional gratuity options. Additionally, reputable travel websites such as Cruise Critic and The Points Guy offer valuable resources and forums where experienced cruisers share their tips and experiences.

By arming yourself with knowledge and understanding, you can confidently navigate the world of Disney Cruise gratuities and ensure that your vacation is not only magical but also respectful and fair to the hardworking crew members who make it all possible.

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FAQ Tipping on Disney Cruise Line: EVERYTHING You Need to Know

First time Disney Cruisers often have A LOT of questions about how to tip on their vacation. Some guests get overwhelmed, thinking – this is new environment to me – I don’t want to seem cheap, but I also don’t want to get rooked. Which tips are required and which are optional? How does tipping physically work? And on and on and on … Never fear, we’ve got the COMPLETE scoop on what you need to know about tipping on your Disney Cruise Line sailing.

I’m on a strict budget. What’s the bare minimum I have to tip?

The bare bones Disney Cruise Line gratuity amount is currently $14.50, per person, per night, for guests staying in non-concierge staterooms.

If, for example, you’re traveling on a three-night cruise with a party of two, your total gratuity fee would be $87 ($14.50 x 2 people x 3 nights). If you’re traveling on a seven-night cruise with a party of four, your total gratuity fee would be $407 ($14.50 x 4 people x 7 nights).

This baseline amounts will be automatically added to your stateroom bill. You can choose to pay them in advance of your sailing or once you’re onboard.

If you’re having trouble figuring out what your party’s baseline tip amount will be, head over Scott Sanders’ excellent Disney Cruise Line Blog to use his DCL Tip Calculator tool .

If you’re sailing in a concierge stateroom, tipping is slightly different – I’ll cover that in a sec.

Who do those tips go to?

The breakout of the daily $14.50 is:

• $4.75  for your server (your main waiter)
• $3.75 for your assistant server (the waiter primarily tasked with your beverages and clearing)
• $1.25 for your head server (runs the dining room)
• $4.75 for your stateroom host (cleans and maintains your stateroom).

There are other situations where you’ll be tipping on the ship, the base gratuity covers these four people.

Do I really have to tip all those people? I mean, I don’t even know what the head server does?

The server, assistant server, and stateroom host are people that will be highly visible during your trip. They’ll assist you daily and you’ll observe them doing their jobs.

On the other hand, the head server position is a bit of a black box. They will likely stop by your table to greet you during dinner, but otherwise it’s not immediately clear what they do to merit a gratuity. Here’s what they’re up to: the head server is responsible for making sure that the entire dining room runs smoothly. This will impact you personally if you’ve made any special requests about your meal situation. If you want your table in a specific location, if you want to avoid sitting with strangers, if you want to make a mid-cruise change to your dining rotation, or if you’re having a problem with your table’s serving team, then the head server is the one who deals with those issues. You should tip them.

I’m from a country that doesn’t have a tipping culture, can I forgo tipping?

Can you? Maybe.  (see below)

Should you? Definitely not.

The Disney Cruise Line website reads, “It is customary to give gratuities …” Tipping is the norm and you should be prepared to abide by this custom.

The DCL crew members in tipped positions have a modest base salary; the majority of their pay comes from gratuities. These folks work incredibly hard to enhance your cruise experience, with no days off for months at a time. Just pretend that it’s part of the baseline cost of your trip and move on.

I’m traveling with a baby that doesn’t eat solid food. Do I still have to  pay gratuities for them?

A baby is a person, so yes.

I see that I can pre-pay these gratuities ahead of my cruise. Should I do that?

It’s really up to you. Some guests prefer to have a larger portion of their cruise expense paid in advance, often because this helps their budgeting process. Other guests like to hang onto their money as long as possible and only mete it out when required.

You can prepay tips on the DCL website. Or if you’re using a travel agent, they can do this for you.

Do I have to tip the serving team members if I won’t be eating in the main dining rooms?

Several years ago I traveled on a three-night Disney Cruise Line with a group of friends. One member of our party never ate in a main dining room. She was ill one evening and ate in her room and the other two nights our party ate at Remy and Palo.

Since my friend didn’t use the services of any of the main dining room staff, she went to Guest Services and asked to have the gratuities for those folks removed from her bill. The cruise staff gave her some solid pushback, but in the end they did remove those tips from her folio.

Why did she get pushback? It turns out that the waitstaff does much more than serve you dinner. They’re also serving meals at the pool deck buffet restaurants, in the main dining rooms during breakfast or lunch, and on Castaway Cay. In short, even if you’re not eating dinner in the main dining rooms, you’re all but certain to be using waiter services during other portions of your trip.

And again, these folks don’t make a lot of money. If you have the wherewithal to take a Disney Cruise Line vacation, the addition of a de minimus tip will mean significantly more to them than it will to you.

I love my serving team and room host. Can I tip them more that the minimum?  Should I tip them more than the minimum?

If you have the funds to do so and the spirit moves you, then yes, absolutely you should tip them more. Any additional gratuities are greatly appreciated by the cruise staff.

How much extra should I tip beloved ship crew?

Ask a thousand people and you’ll get a thousand different answers. And when you get those answers, you can’t 100% be sure that what they’ve told you is true.

Given that, I’ll describe some of my own “extra tip” scenarios as well as some that I’ve seen from trusted friends and relatives:

• Extra just wasn’t in the budget
• The serving team was good but did nothing that merited a supplement
• We skipped the main dining room several nights
• We gave an extra $X per person, per night, where X is anything from $5 to $20+
• We gave one member of our team (such as just the stateroom host) an extra tip (say $100) because they made our trip extra special
• We gave all members of our a flat extra tip because we like to be generous
• We give extra on longer sailings (7+ nights) when we really get to know our serving team, but we don’t give extra on quick 3-night sailings when we interact less with the crew members

If I want to tip extra, do I need to bring cash?

If you simply want to give extra to your four main service team members (the ones listed above) you can do that in cash.  Or if you prefer not to carry much cash, you can stop by the Guest Services Desk onboard at any time and add funds to the gratuity part of your bill. Either way works.

There are, however, some other tipping situations where you will want to have cash on hand (see below).

How do tip my servers/room host? Physically, what happens?

On one of the last nights of your sailing, your stateroom host will leave you four small envelopes (labeled Server, Assistant Server, Head Server, and Stateroom Host) along with a tan-colored paper (perforated into four sections) which gives the names of your service team members and the basic tip amounts. But there are no instructions on what you’re supposed to do with these items. Guests often find this confusing.

The easiest situation is that you’re giving the baseline tip level. If you’re just giving the recommended amount, you don’t really have to do anything. Your folio (cruise bill) will be billed the standard amount (or you’ve paid the standard amount in advance) and that amount will be automatically distributed to your crew team. You can keep the summary sheet for your records or throw it out.

Other ways to approach tipping are:

• If you plan to give your crew members the standard gratuities but think it feels weird to leave on the last day without handing them anything –  Place the perforated strips from the summary sheet into the corresponding envelopes and hand them to the crew members on the last night of your sailing.
• Place cash in the envelope(s) and hand them to your team on the last night of your cruise
• Place both the perforated strip and additional cash in the envelope(s) and hand them to your team on the last night of your cruise
•   Add a gift card to the envelope(s) rather than cash. Some guests feel uncomfortable carrying cash and don’t want to deal with possible waits at Guest Services, but they do want to give something extra of financial value. We’ll say up front that crew members very much prefer cash, it’s easy to use in ports and to send to family members back home. But if cash is not your thing, Visa or American Express gift cards or store cards from big box locations such as Target or Walmart often appreciated.
• Do any of the above and add a personal note of thanks .

Do I tip bartenders on the ship?

Bar tabs (at the coffee bars and at the traditional bars) on the Disney Cruise Line ships have an automatic 18% gratuity added. There is also a line for you to add an additional tip if you choose to give more.

Do I tip for room service?

Many of the room servic e items on DCL are available free of charge. A gratuity is optional for most room service orders; however, tipping is polite and greatly appreciated. The amount you tip is at your discretion. If you’re looking for a rule of thumb, start with $1 per item ordered or $2-3 per person and go up from there.

On a recent cruise on the Dream, my daughter and I ordered room service continental breakfast of coffee, fruit, and cereal. We tipped $5.

You can give the room service attendant cash or add a tip to the receipt you’ll get when your food is delivered.

How much should I tip at the onboard adult dining venues (Remy, Palo, Enchanté)?

There is an 18% gratuity automatically added to the price of any alcohol you purchase at the onboard adult dining venues (Remy, Enchanté, and Palo).

There is no specific amount you’re required to tip for food. That said, at a bare minimum you should tip at least 20% for the food bill. If you’re a Platinum cruiser and are getting your food comped, you should still tip at least 20% of what your food cost would have been.

My opinion only – you do you – I don’t think that bare minimum level of tipping is adequate for the impeccable service you’re getting at these restaurants. You can never go wrong by tipping more.

You can add tips to your bill at the end of your meal as you would if you were paying with a credit card at any restaurant on land.

How much should I tip at the spa?

Tipping is customary for spa and salon services. You’ll see an 18% gratuity added to your bill, but you can always add more.

Are there people I need to tip at my port?

Yes. There are porters who will take any checked luggage onto the ship for you. These folks should be tipped in cash. A typical tip is $5 for one or two suitcases, $10 for two or three suitcases, and additional multiples of that for additional bags.

Similarly, if you use the porters at disembarkation, tip them the same amounts.

And if you’ve used a car service, Uber, or bus to get to/from the port, your driver will likely need tips as well.

 Should I be tipping anyone during my onshore excursions?

Most of the shore excursions are run by third party companies, not by Disney itself. The DCL website says that tipping is not required, but it is ALWAYS appreciated. Use your discretion on how much to tip based on the length of your excursion, the number of people in your party and the level of personal attention you receive.

I’m in a concierge level stateroom? Is there anything different about tipping there?

In July 2022, DCL updated its recommended baseline tips for guests staying in Concierge Level staterooms. The recommended gratuity is $15.50 per person, per night of sailing, compared to $14.50 for non-Concierge rooms. The difference is that these rooms have an Assistant Stateroom Host position tipped at $1.00 per person per night.

The breakdown is:

• Dining Room Server – $4.75 per person, per night
• Assistant Dining Room Server – $3.75 per person, per night
• Dining Room Head Server – $1.25 per person, per night
• Stateroom Host – $4.75 per person, per night
• Assistant Stateroom Host – $1.00 per person, per night

Additionally, Concierge Guests often ask for guidance regarding gratuities for the Concierge Lounge Team (Concierge Managers and the Concierge Servers). Disney recommends that these folks receive a gratuity amount of $8.00 per night, per stateroom guest. However, it is always up to the Guest to determine what they feel is appropriate. MANY guests tip more than this baseline.

My child absolutely adores the youth activities team. Should I tip them?

Youth activities staff are not normally tipped. Indeed, they’re supposed to decline tips. That said, they are allowed to accept cash, gift cards, and small gifts if you insist three times. Adding a note written/colored by your child is a nice touch.

Are there other folks on the ship I should be tipping?

If you’re lucky enough to snag a cabana at Castaway Cay, you’ll be attended by a host who’ll bring you extra towels or sodas, give you a golf cart ride back to the ship, and generally make your life nicer. Tip these folks in cash depending on the size of your party and the level of attention you receive.

Any other helpful hints?

If you really care about your crew team, the best thing you can do to reward them is by giving them EXCELLENT (not Very Good) ratings on the comment card you’ll get on your last night onboard. These ratings are a big part of how crew members get promoted.

Also, some guests like to bring candy, American magazines, or trinkets from home to give to cruise staff. This is a nice thought, but not necessarily best practice. The crew rooms are extremely small (you’d be shocked how tiny) shared quarters. They don’t have much room for extra “stuff.” Additionally, they might have allergies or different tastes than yours. Cash really is best and gift cards are a runner up. If you want to give something else, consider it as a supplement to a gratuity and not a substitute.

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

6 thoughts on “ FAQ Tipping on Disney Cruise Line: EVERYTHING You Need to Know ”

Quote “Disney recommends that these folks receive a gratuity amount of $8.00 per night, per stateroom guest. However, it is always up to the Guest to determine what they feel is appropriate. MANY guests tip more than this baseline.”.

My questions are: 1. How do you define “MANY”? 2. How do you know there are MANY? Any statistics revealed back up this statement?

“Many” is a rough guess that about 50-60% of guests give more than the suggested amount. I don’t have any hard statistics. However, we interview guests and travel agents and monitor dozens of social media groups related to Disney Cruise Line. The tipping topic comes up often. More than 50% of guests that we see/read mention tipping more than the baseline. It’s self-reported, so some of this could be bluster, but it’s enough that we feel confident that a significant subset of guests give more than the standard tip. It is, of course, entirely up to you to decide what makes sense for your situation.

Sorry – forgot the second half of your question @Julie. If you’ve purchased a Rainforest pass and are just going in to use the shower and steam rooms and relax in the lounge area, then no, there’s not really anyone to tip.

However, if you have a particularly helpful cast member who brings you extra towels or beverages or otherwise goes above and beyond, then tipping them a few dollars cash is always nice.

I thought I heard somewhere that you can tip for room service in the app. Is this true? Also, would you tip for using the Rainforest Room? If so, who would you tip?

Room service tipping on the app was something that happened early in the return to sailing after the pandemic shutdown as a way to reduce physical contact with items.

I sailed four time on three DCL ships (Dream, Magic, and Wish) in 2022. Room service tipping on the app was not offered to me on any of these trips. Instead I was presented with a paper receipt to sign, with a line available to add a tip amount, just as the practice was pre-COVID.

Great article as always.

Some items we would also add. We bring a bag of individually wrapped candies (like star burst or smarties) for the kids club hosts. They use them for team building and prizes for the department.

You can also tip just about any person on the ship as well. If you can get their name, where they are from, and what department (it helps) you can go to guest services. We found that out during our last cruise.

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Gratuities on the Disney Cruise Line Explained

Let’s talk gratuities…

The service on Disney Cruise Line is exceptional. Each and every cast and crew member make you feel like you are the most important person on the ship. They go above and beyond what you could even imagine.

Gratuities (additional monies) are a way to say thank you. It is customary to give gratuities in recognition of exceptional service. All gratuities are technically optional, but all cruisers should know that paying gratuities for four (4) specific crew members is considered customary (more on this below).

As is the case with many service-based jobs, these crew members are paid by the cruise line under the idea that a large portion of their income will come from guest gratuities. But because of this, Disney automatically charges you the gratuities.  It’s considered “good form” to reward them for the service they provide.

How is gratuity calculated?

There are four (4) specific crew members where it is considered customary to leave gratuities: Dining Room Server, Dining Room Assistant Server, Dining Room Head Server, and Stateroom Host/Hostess. I will explain each below.

The amount is calculated per person for everyone in your stateroom. If you have 4 people in your stateroom the rate would be x 4 regardless of age (babies included).

Dining Room Server: This person is with you at every dinner service and they follow you to each of your restaurants (in your dining rotation). This person is responsible for your meal. Their gratuity is $4.50 per night per person. So, for a 7-night cruise for 1 person, it calculates to $31.50. For a family of 4, your total would be $126.

Dining Room Assistant Server: This person is with you at every dinner service and they follow you to each of your restaurants (in your dining rotation). This person is responsible for your beverages and assisting the server in anything that supports providing a great experience during dinner for the guests. Their gratuity is $3.50 per night per person. So, for a 7-night cruise for 1 person, it calculates to $24.50. For a family of 4, your total would be $98.

Dining Room Head server: This person is responsible for your entire dining experience. Their gratuity is $1 per night per person. So, for a 7-night cruise for 1 person, it calculates to $7. For a family of 4, your total would be $28.

Stateroom Host/Hostess:  This is the person that takes care of your stateroom. They keep it clean and tidy and perform turndown service each night (and make awesome towel art!). They are always around the halls asking how your day is going and what else you may need.  Their gratuity is $4.50 per night per person. So, for a 7-night cruise for 1 person, it calculates to $31.50. For a family of 4, your total would be $126.

Total gratuities that are either prepaid or added on to your stateroom bill is $ 13.50 per person, per night. So, for a family of 4 on a 7-night cruise, your total would be $ 378.

How do you pay gratuities for these four (4) crew members?

You can pre-pay the suggested gratuity amount in advance no later than 3 days before your cruise begins. Let your travel agent know if you would like to add these on ahead of time.

If you do not prepay the gratuities, they will automatically be added to your onboard account prior to the end of your cruise.

Of course, you may elect to change the amounts by going to Guest Services on the ship, located on Deck 3, Midship. You can also pay the gratuities in cash at Guest Services.

Other gratuities that are automatically included:

A 15% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs. You can add more if you so choose. Senses Spa & Salon: An 18% gratuity will automatically be applied to all spa services. You can add more if you so choose.

Optional gratuities?

For the following crew members, it is optional to give gratuities: Dining Manager, Room Service, Palo, Remy (you should pay gratuities when settling your bill at the end of the meal in the same manner as you would at any restaurant.), and bartenders. If you are staying Concierge level your team will not be included in the pre-paying service but they will accept tips on board.

Port Adventures: Gratuities are optional and are not included in Port Adventures price. For Babysitting, gratuities are not expected.

What if my service is amazing and I decide that I want to give more?

You can always give in addition to the pre-payed amounts. On the 2nd to last night of your cruise, you will get a print out that shows suggested gratuities that have been added to your account or prepaid. There will also be 4 little envelopes that you can put extra money in and personally deliver to the crew member or leave in your room and it will be given to them.  This is just a little extra to brighten their day after the excellent service they provided.

What if I’m unhappy with my service, do I still have to pay gratuities?

Disney is renowned for its Customer Service but if for whatever reason you are unsatisfied, please speak to a Cast Member first who will work hard to correct your concerns.  Waiting until the end of the cruise and then withholding gratuities will not improve your service experience.

Nothing is more frustrating for the crew member or the cruise line to find out after the fact (when it’s too late to fix) that there was a problem. You will be happier to have the issue resolved while you are still enjoying your cruise.

However, should you decide that you want to make an adjustment to your pre-paid gratuities, you should speak with the Guest Services Team aboard the ship.

Happy Cruising!

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Everything About Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024 (Amounts, Etiquette, and More)

If you’re a first-time cruiser, then there’s little doubt that you have questions about gratuities and tipping on your cruise. We’re here to help.

First of all, if you’re feeling a little confused, don’t worry — you aren’t alone. In fact, we can’t think of a place where gratuities are handled the same way as they are on a cruise ship.

Gone are the days of simply slipping a waiter some cash or leaving a couple of bills for the room steward at the end of your trip (although you can still do that if you want).

Instead, gratuities on a cruise ship are highly automated, with most people just electing to prepay or being charged a set amount for each day on the ship.

While this is intended to make things easier, the honest truth is that having automatic gratuities can actually lead to more questions. Who gets the tips? How much is charged? What if service is bad?

If you’ve never cruised, then there is no doubt that these questions and more might be floating through your head. To help explain everything about cruise line gratuities, we’ve answered a number of common questions that will make everything clearer before you set sail.

In This Article...

Explained: What Exactly Are Cruise Ship Gratuities

While the name sounds fancy, gratuities are nothing more than a tip paid to the staff members for service during the cruise. The staff works hard to ensure that your vacation is a great one. As a thanks for their service, it’s customary to provide a tip.

The gratuities go to staff that provide passenger-facing services. That means people like the room steward who cleans your cabin and the dining staff. Some cruise lines distribute them even wider to the staff.

These days, the gratuities are set daily amounts paid by each passenger. Instead of one passenger paying a lot and another paying hardly anything, these set amounts ensure that everyone pays the same. The cruise line then distributes the payment to staff.

My Cruise Line Calls it a Crew Incentive or Service Charge. Is that the Same Thing?

Depending on your cruise line, you might find different language used than the word “gratuities.” We’ve seen these charges called tips, gratuities, crew incentives, or service charges .

No matter the language, they all end up being the same thing — a set daily charge to passengers that’s passed on to the crew.

How Much You’ll Pay in Cruise Gratuities

The amount you pay will vary by cruise line, but they are all in the same ballpark. You can expect to pay about $15-$20 per person, per day. Most lines charge $16 at the moment, but it steadily rises each year.

A couple traveling together will see about $30-$40 per day in gratuities, or about $200+ over the course of a week-long cruise.

Below, we’ve listed the current tip amounts charged by major cruise lines as of the time of this writing:

• Carnival : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• Celebrity : $18.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for those in Concierge Class and AquaClass cabins. $23.00 per person, per day for guest of The Retreat. Source .
• Disney : $14.50 per person, per day. $15.50 per person, per day for those staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites. Source .
• Holland America : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.50 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
• Norwegian : $20.00 per person, per day. $25.00 per person, per day staying in suites and The Haven. Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• MSC Cruises : $16.00 per person, per day. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay $8 per day. Passengers under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Source .
• Princess : $16.00 per person, per day. $17.00 per person, per day staying in mini-suites. $18.00 per person, per day for guests in suites. Source .
• Royal Caribbean : $16.00 per person, per day. $18.50 per person, per day for guests in suites and higher. Source .

How Are Cruise Line Gratuities Paid?

How do you actually pay tips on the cruise ship? In the past, the process used to be that the cruise line would put envelopes in your room on the last day of the cruise. Passengers would then put cash in the envelope for the crew members. These days, everything is automatic.

When you book the cruise you’ll have the ability to prepay gratuities . You are charged a set amount, per person, per day. You simply pay this extra amount in full for your cruise as part of your cruise fare.

If you don’t decide to prepay the tips, then the amount is automatically charged to your onboard account each day. When it comes time to settle your final bill at the end of the cruise, you’ll have the gratuity charges to pay as well.

Want to tip more? You can still hand out cash to individual members of the staff that you appreciate, although it’s not required.

Is Every Passenger Charged Gratuities? 

The vast majority of passengers are charged these tips, no matter if they are young, old, have special requests, eat in the main dining room, or only hit the buffet.

That said, some cruise lines make exceptions for small kids. For example, Carnival does not charge tips for kids under two years old. Norwegian Cruise Lines doesn’t charge gratuities for kids under three. However, for the most part you can expect that every passenger on your trip will see a charge.

Here are the policies for major cruise lines:

• Carnival : Guests under 2 years old aren’t charged gratuity.
• Disney : All guests pay gratuities at their discretion.
• Holland America : All guests pay gratuities.
• Norwegian : Guests under 3 years old don’t pay gratuity.
• MSC Cruises : Guests under 2 years old don’t pay gratuity. Guests over 2 years old and under 12 years old pay half amounts.
• Princess : All guests pay gratuities.
• Royal Caribbean : All guests pay gratuities.

How Can I Know How Much I Will Be Charged in Tips?

When you book your cruise, the gratuity amount is usually disclosed in full for your trip, with an option to prepay the amount with your cruise fare.

If you’d like to calculate exactly what your gratuity amount will be before you book your trip, then you can use our calculator here . Simply enter the cruise line, length of trip, and the number of passengers and it will show you precisely how much you’ll be charged.

Can I Adjust the Amount of Gratuities?

For most people, the service they receive on a cruise is outstanding. They recognize that the staff goes above and beyond to make their vacation enjoyable. But that’s not always the case. With millions of passengers sailing every year, there’s inevitably going to be someone who feels they received poor service.

If that’s the case — and you decide you want to change the amount you are charged for tips — then you can do that. Gratuity charges are typically not mandatory and can be adjusted. To do so, simply head down to Guest Services on the ship to tell them that you want to change your tip amounts.

That said, it’s unusual to adjust the gratuity amount, and the staff works extremely hard to make your trip enjoyable. If you have a major issue, however, you can change your gratuity amount accordingly.

What If I Don’t Pay Gratuities on my Cruise?

With the introduction of automatic gratuities, it’s much more difficult to avoid paying tips on your cruise. That said, in theory you could request that tips be removed from your account and not tip at all.

So what will happen? As far as your trip, likely very little. The staff isn’t likely to treat you any differently or even know that you aren’t tipping (after all, some people still like to pay cash at the end of the cruise). They will still go out of their way to make your cruise comfortable and enjoyable.

That said, if you don’t pay gratuities, then it’s the staff that will be hurting — not the cruise line. The cruise line collects the tips and then distributes them accordingly. Without your contribution, the compensation for the staff members will decrease. For staff members that rely on these dollars, that can be a major blow.

How to Pay Extra (If You Want)

Want to pay more in gratuity? That’s allowed. In fact, the staff will love that you want to give them more money. If you want to pay extra, we suggest simply handing cash directly to the people you want to recognize for their service. This happens regularly for passengers feeling generous or thankful for the staff’s work during their trip. In fact, your cruise line might leave a few envelopes in your room exactly for this purpose.

Should I Prepay the Gratuity Charges?

When you book your cruise, you’ll be given the opportunity to prepay the gratuities. In this case, you can simply choose to have them lumped in with your cruise fare, paying them all at once.

The advantage is that you get your payment out of the way ahead of time. So when you’re on the ship, it’s one less charge to worry about.

On the other hand, many people choose to instead pay the gratuity charges automatically through their onboard account once on the ship . Each day there will be a gratuity charge — or a lump sum added at the end of the trip.

The advantage here is that you get to hold on to more of your money for longer. Instead of handing over the charges well in advance of your sailing, you can keep it until you’re actually on your cruise.

Bottom line is that it comes down to personal preference. You can get the charge out of the way early, or hold onto your money until you actually sail.

Who Gets the Gratuities That You Pay?

From the passenger perspective, the gratuity amount is simple — pay a set amount per person, per day, and be done.

On the cruise line side, that money gets cut up to be distributed. The tips are spread out between the room steward, dining staff, and others that have customer-facing positions. That said, cruise lines are quiet on exactly how the charges are distributed.

The good thing for passengers about gratuities is that this distribution is done automatically by the cruise line instead of having to give tips to several different staff members at the end of your cruise.

Why Aren’t Gratuities Just Included in the Price of the Cruise?

For some cruise lines (usually luxury lines), gratuities actually are included in the fare — you don’t pay anything extra apart from your cruise fare.

However, for the majority of mass market cruise lines the gratuities are extra charges on the price of your cruise. These can be a surprise to some people, especially first-time passengers.

While the cruise lines might say differently, we think that gratuities aren’t included in the headline price for marketing purposes. There’s little doubt that the extra tips can be expensive. The cost for two people on a week-long cruise can be well above $200.

Meanwhile, cruise fares are often shown as dirt-cheap prices. They are often expressed as the rate for a single person (despite having to pay for double occupancy) and don’t include port fees or taxes. Having to add in gratuity costs to these advertised rates could make them less attractive to potential cruisers.

How Often Do the Gratuity Rates Increase?

The tipping rates charged change from time to time. We’ve seen instances of multiple increases in a year and other times when rates won’t change for a year or two. Just like the price of anything else, you should expect over time for these rates to continue to rise slowly but surely. Typical increases are around $1 per person, per day and seem to happen about once a year. 

One perk of pre-paying gratuities is that if you pre-pay and the rate later increases, you aren’t charged the higher rate.

Who Else to Tip While On the Ship

You would think that paying a hefty daily tip would cover everyone on the ship. In fact, there are a couple of instances where paying additional gratuity is recommended or automatic.

First, any time that you buy a drink from the bar, you will be charged an extra tip, usually 18%-20% of the menu price, depending on the cruise line. This happens automatically and will be tacked on to the price. So a $10 menu price on a cocktail is actually around $12.

Be aware that when you sign the receipt there will be another line for an additional tip. Unless you are feeling generous, there’s no need to tip more .

Second, any time that you purchase anything service related — such as dinner at a specialty restaurant or a service at the spa — expect there to be a tip added on to the cost. Again, this normally runs around 18%, but can range from 15% to 20%, depending on the cruise line.

Finally, if you order anything from room service, then it’s expected that you give a couple of bucks to the staff member that delivers the food.

Other than that, your gratuity charges cover the housekeeping and dining staff. So when you leave the room you don’t have to put down any extra cash (unless you want to). And when you leave the dining room, no need to drop down any money on the table.

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We have just returned from a Cruise on NCL around the Canaries and Med The Crew was 65% Philipino and were on minimum wage. Although I appreciate that NCL is a USA Company that has no respect for its workers it is why they recruit from Asia, instead of paying a decent living wage they charge the passenger’s outrageous gratuities to compensate for their bad business practices. The only reason they will not add the Gratuites to the original brochure price or remove them like P&O has is then they would have to pay their crew a living wage. In the UK we tip for good service not to prop up the wages of poorly paid employees.

The employer has to pay its employees their salaries And we thé customers should not be worried about this. We pay the Cruise and that’s it. This tipping business is getting out of control and is shifting responsibility from the employers to the clients using our guilty conscience from being on a cruise? Also in the restaurants, hair salons, all businesses …this is all wrong

The baggage porters at the port do not work for the cruise line, but for the port itself. You customarily tip $1 – $2 per bag (more if you want) OR you can NOT tip and risk that the one guy you didn’t tip handles your bag with care and the bag actually makes it on the ship and doesn’t “accidently” get left behind. The risk to me isn’t worth the $5 tip we give for 2 bags. On another subject, what makes Miami the worse port? We just booked a cruise out of Miami for the first time in 10 years. What makes it “the worse”, other than your bad experience with the porters dictating what you should tip, which is 199% wrong, in my opinion.

I don’t understand why we are paying the salaries of the teams and not the cruise line. I know Tui and P&O don’t charge gratuities, it’s actually the choice of the person if they wish to give a tip. I have booked with NCL next year because I’m advised taking my money can either be pre paid or can opt out. I so hope that’s true.

I think this was an excellent way of looking. Have a set routine payout and adjust accordingly to the level of service.

This abuse of tipping allows companies to pay their workers a lower wage and pocket the profits. Whatever happened to just doing the job you’re paid for? Housekeeping is supposed to make up rooms, servers are supposed to serve food… But I’m supposed to pay a hundred bucks a day for a family of five, in the same room, and after I’ve already paid five grand for the cruise? Ridiculous.

All of you have great advice. I too pay in cash and at times have given extra. What do you do about the porters at the ports. I gave always given them money to take my bags to the ship. Tipping is out of control everywhere. In Miami the worst place to board the ship. I have stepped out of the shuttle seeing the conveyer a short distance away. The porter stands there counts the luggage and has told the price for a handling fee. Really, do they get an hourly wage that’s so low they need tip to survive? Are tips required? What the real deal? If tips are not required, do their supervisors know about this up charge?

If I travel with my family of 4, and I pay the waiting $20 ($5 per person) staff each time we eat in the dining room, which would be for dinner only, over 7 days, that would $140. Then if I pay another $5 per person each day for room clean-up, that’s another $140, for a total of $280. I think these amounts are reasonable. But RCCL wants to charge $448. That doesn’t seem fair.

Thank you! You were extremely helpful for my upcoming cruise!

When we researched tipping policy on a recent Princess cruise, we found that the cruise line pools that money and uses it for bonuses, etc. over all its ships, not just the cruise we were on. I find this to be an outrageous ploy to hide the true costs of a cruise. We nearly always opt out of tips and tip whom we want directly.

We are cruising with NCL later this year & we have a beverage package included & gratuities included does that mean we will not pay any more gratuities at end of cruise?

Yes, except if you are sailing in the U.S., then NCL tacks on the gratuities on the amount of the beverage package even though the package is free. So the $99 per day package is free, but you are charged about $20 per day still for the drink package gratuities.

I Agree, we always opt out and give tips to our steward and waiter/waitress at the end of the cruise.

We always hand our tips in cash to the person whose service we wish to commend. We never use a credit card for our on ship account. We deposit cash to use for our onboard account. If gratuities show on our account when we settle at cruise end, we ask for them to be removed. We want the people who earned the tip to receive, not the lousy,greedy, uninvolved government! We rarely buy anything on the ship of value. We use prepaid drink cards to purchase beverages.

Great advice. This is my first cruise. I didnt know I could have the tips removed from my room charges. I detest the idea of: A. not knowing who my tip is going to B. Paying a tip twice C. Paying a standardized tip for poor service. I want the employee to know they received a tip from me. Not to split them across all the employees equally. All service isn’t created equally.

What sucks is the workers then have to pay a tax on the “tip” where we would rather give the workers a “gift” of cash.

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Home » Cruise Tips » Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)

Complete Guide to Cruise Gratuities by Cruise Line (2023)

In this complete guide to cruise gratuities for 2023, we explain everything you need to know and break down the costs by cruise line.

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If you are new to cruising, you should know that not everything is included in your cruise vacation. In addition to your cruise fare, there are other services charges for which you will need to budget . This includes daily per person cruise gratuities as well as service charges added to purchases like drinks and spa treatments.

In this post, we explain everything you need to know about cruise gratuities broken down by cost for each cruise line.

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Everything You Need to Know About Cruise Gratuities in 2023

What are cruise gratuities.

Cruise gratuities are services charges that are not included in a standard cruise fare on most contemporary cruise lines, similar to a hotel resort fee. These additional fees are a per person, per day dollar amount that are charged to all guests across all stateroom categories.

And unfortunately, most contemporary cruise lines have increased or plan to increase these charges in 2023.

Guests are usually charged automatically for these additional fees.

Depending on the cruise line, these charges are usually applicable to guests 2-3 years of age and older.

These charges serve as a means to reward the hard-working crew for the excellent service provided during your cruise vacation.

These cruise gratuities are divided among stateroom attendants, dining staff, and other behind the scenes crew members in a proportion determined by the cruise line. This method is meant to be more equitable across all staff.

As stated above, these service charges apply to all guests regardless of stateroom category. However, some stateroom categories do have higher fees than others.

These cruise gratuities also apply to all guests regardless of your dining options. Cruisers who opt to only eat in the buffet, who select anytime dining, or who choose more traditional dining will all pay the same amount based on their stateroom category.

Is it better to pre-pay gratuities on a cruise?

Guests can pay for these cruise gratuities in one of two ways. If you would prefer to pay ahead of time, most cruise lines allow guests to pre-pay their gratuities at the time of booking or anytime prior to sailing. These fees will then be added into your total cruise fare and covered with your final payment.

One major benefit of pre-paying your cruise gratuities is that you will pay the current rate. If prices should happen to increase before your sailing, you will not need to pay extra for these increased costs.

If you do not pre-pay the gratuities, you will need to pay the current per day, per person dollar amount at the time of your sailing. This fee will be added to your stateroom account once onboard the ship.

How Much Are Cruise Gratuities in 2023?

The exact charge for these cruise gratuities do vary by cruise line and by stateroom category. While gratuities are part of the cruise fare on some luxury lines, cruisers should plan to pay the following fees on the majority of major cruise lines.

It is important to note that these cruise gratuities have been on the rise, with most major cruise lines recently raising prices or set to do so in 2023.

Gratuities on Royal Caribbean

As of September 7 th , 2022, the gratuities on Royal Caribbean ships are:

• $16 per person, per day for guests in non-suites staterooms
• $18.50 per person, per day for guests in suites

This fee is applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis.

In addition, guests will pay an 18% gratuity on all beverages , mini bar items, and spa & salon purchases. This is on top of the cruise gratuity charges.

Gratuities on NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Norwegian Cruise Line’s cruise gratuities for bookings made on or after January 1, 2023 are:

• $25 for guests staying in the Haven and Suites
• $20 for all other staterooms, Club Balcony Suites and below

For bookings made before January 1, 2023, that pre-pay gratuities before the sail date, prices are as follows:

• $20 per person per day for The Haven and Suites
• $18 per person per day for Club Balcony Suite
• $16 per person per day for all other stateroom types

There is an additional 20% gratuity for all spa and salon services. There is also a 20% service charge on all beverage purchases and all specialty restaurant dining and entertainment based dining. Further, cruises to Hawaii also have a 4.275% service tax applied.

Carnival Cruise Gratuities

Carnival Cruise Line’s gratuities are also increasing in 2023.

For cruise departures prior to April 1, 2023, guests will need to pay:

• Standard Staterooms: $14.50 per person, per day
• Suite Staterooms: $16.50 per person, per day

On cruise departures on or after April 1, 2023, the fee increases to:

• Standard Staterooms: $16 per person, per day
• Suite Staterooms: $18 per person, per day

For beverage purchases , an automatic 18% gratuity will be added to the bill in addition to the cruise gratuity.

Gratuities on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has also increased the price on cruise gratuities for sailings on or after October 17, 2022.

These new prices are as follows:

• $17.50 per person, per day for Inside, Ocean View, and Veranda staterooms 
• $18 per person, per day for Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms  
• $21 per person, per day for guests of The Retreat

However, Celebrity Cruises also has a newer pricing structure. The All Included cruise fare now incorporates some basic amenities to provide a more all-inclusive feel. Gratuities is one of these amenities.

With the All Included pricing, guests receive tips, basic Wi-Fi, and the Classic Drink Package as part of their cruise fare.

A 20% gratuity will still be automatically added to all beverages, mini bar purchases, spa and salon services. Though, guests will not pay gratuity for drinks that are part of the complimentary classic beverage package.

Princess Cruise Gratuities

On Princess Cruises, the crew appreciation will cost more for voyages departing after February 20, 2023.

Currently, the gratuity is $16.50 per guest for suites and $15.50 per guest for mini-suites. A $14.50 cruise gratuity is charged for guests (including children) staying in all other staterooms.

The new increases are as follows:

• Interior, Oceanview, and Balcony $16
• Mini-Suite and Reserve Collection $17

Similar to Celebrity Cruises, Princess cruises offers more all-inclusive packages that include crew appreciation . If guests upgrade to the Princess Plus or Princess Premier Packages, they will not pay any additional gratuities once onboard the ship.

However, an 18% service charge still applies to bar charges, dining room wine accounts, and Lotus Spa services.

Gratuities on Holland America

For all sailings departing prior to February 1, 2023 as well as the 2023 Grand World Voyage and the 2023 Grand South America Antarctica Voyage, the daily Hotel Service Charge is $15.50 per guest, per day for non-suite staterooms. This fee is $17 per guest, per day for suite guests.

However, this price is increasing for sailings departing on or after February 1, 2023. The new crew appreciation prices are as follows:

• $16 per guest, per day for non-suite stateroom guests
• $17.50 per guest, per day for suite guests

An 18% Bar Service Charge is automatically added to bar charges and Dining Room wine purchases. Again, this is on top of the daily service charges.

Gratuities on MSC Cruises

For Bahamas and Caribbean sailings with MSC Cruises, cruise gratuities are as follows:

• The charge for adults 12 and over is $14.50
• For children 2-12 years old, the charge is $7.50
• For kids under 2 years old, there is no charge

A 15% Bar Service Charge also applies to all purchases on MSC Cruises as well.

The gratuities for other destinations do vary. If you are cruising to another destination with MSC, you will want to visit the cruise line’s website .

Disney Cruise Gratuities

On Disney Cruise Line , the recommended cruise gratuity is $14.50 per night, per guest, including infants and children.

Guests staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites are recommended a gratuity amount of $15.50 per night.

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs.

Viking Ocean Cruise Gratuities

While considered a luxury brand, Viking is one of the few high-end cruise lines that does charge a daily guest gratuity . All guests will need to pay a hotel and dining charge of $17 per day regardless of stateroom category.

Further, a 15% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs. 

This same fee applies to Viking Expedition as well. However, Viking River service charges do vary by destination.

Cruise Gratuities on Virgin Voyages

Sailors looking to voyage with this adult only cruise line will be happy to know that gratuities are part of the cruise fare. On Virgin Voyages , there are no daily gratuities added to your shipboard account. Now, that’s a perk!

Further, there are no additional service charges on other items like beverages or spa services.

Cruise Gratuities on Margaritaville at Sea

On the new Margaritaville at Sea cruise line , guests can expect to pay gratuities during their 2-night sailing. These fees are $14.95 per person, per night for interior and ocean view staterooms and $19.95 for suites.

Guests are also charged up to $12 per person, per day for a fuel charge.

Additionally, an 18% service charge is added to all bar purchases.

Windstar Cruise Gratuities

Guests sailing on Windstar Cruises should expect to pay cruise gratuities as well. This hotel service charge is $16 per passenger, per day and is automatically added to each guest’s onboard account.

Of note, Windstar Cruises also has an option for an all-inclusive package . This package includes WiFi, drinks, and gratuities.

An 18% Beverage Service Charge still applies.

Oceania Cruise Gratuities

Guests cruising with Oceania should also budget for these additional service charges based on their stateroom category. The fees are as follows:

• For guests in standard staterooms, gratuities are $18 per guest, per day
• For guests in Penthouse, Oceania, Vista, or Owner’s Suites where Butler Service is provided, gratuities are $23 per guest, per day

In addition, a 20% service gratuity is automatically added to all beverage purchases, spa services, and dinner at La Reserve.

Other Luxury Cruise Lines

Other luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent include all gratuities except on spa services.

Do you have to pay gratuities on cruise?

Can you opt out of gratuities on a cruise? Not really.

Cruise gratuities are mandatory, in loosely defined terms. Most cruise lines do apply these charges automatically. However, these charges can be modified or removed by guests while on the ship in the event that they did not receive satisfactory service.

Keep in mind that gratuities will be deemed undisputed unless a request to modify is received prior to disembarking the ship.

While cruise gratuities can be modified or removed, we never recommend that cruisers do so. This is such a small and well-deserved token of appreciation to all the hard-working crew onboard the ship. In fact, many cruisers choose to tip above and beyond this rate.

How do you get out of paying gratuities on a cruise?

You might be wondering how you can get out of paying these cruise service charges. Well, there is one big way you can avoid paying them. That is to keep an eye on your cruise planner and email for special promotions.

Cruise lines will often run sales, and travel agents will often offer perks, that may include free gratuities for booking a cruise. Other perks may include onboard credit, free drink packages, free specialty dining, and so on.

Should I tip extra on a cruise?

On all cruise lines, additional gratuities may be added at your discretion. Beyond the standard service charges put forth by the cruise line, we always tip above and beyond for excellent service.

Generally speaking, we provide additional monetary compensation at the end of the cruise to our stateroom attendant and our dining room waitstaff.

Keep in mind that the cruise line assigned gratuities do not include all staff members. These charges do not go towards individuals like bar servers, porters, shore excursion guides, casino staff, or youth staff.

So, you should consider providing tips to these crew members for great service. We generally tip our favorite bartenders, staff at the onboard coffee shop, tour guides, bus drivers, and so on.

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What are your thoughts on cruise gratuities and service charges? Do you tip beyond these required amounts? How you do like to reward the onboard staff for providing you a memorable cruise vacation?

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What Are The Gratuities On Disney Cruise

Published: December 9, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Helyn Bass

• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome aboard the magical world of Disney Cruise Line, where enchantment and adventure await at every turn. As you embark on your unforgettable voyage, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the intricacies of cruising, including the topic of gratuities. In this article, we will explore the world of gratuities on Disney Cruise, shedding light on their significance, policies, and proper etiquette. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into this essential aspect of your Disney Cruise experience.

Gratuities, also known as tips, are a customary way of expressing appreciation for exceptional service provided by the dedicated crew members aboard a Disney Cruise ship. These hardworking individuals go above and beyond to ensure your voyage is nothing short of magical, and gratuities serve as a tangible way to acknowledge their efforts.

Disney Cruise Line understands the importance of showing gratitude to their exceptional crew members and has a well-defined gratuity policy in place. While gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account, it is essential to understand how they are calculated, their purpose, and how you can adjust them to suit your preferences.

As you sail away to breathtaking destinations, such as the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, or even a private Bahamas island, your onboard experiences are elevated by the exceptional service provided by the crew. From the friendly servers in the dining rooms to the diligent stateroom hosts and the attentive activity staff, each member of the crew plays a significant role in ensuring your Disney Cruise is nothing short of magical. By understanding and acknowledging the importance of gratuities, you are contributing to the continued excellence and dedication of these remarkable individuals.

Overview of Disney Cruise Gratuities

Gratuities on a Disney Cruise are an essential part of the onboard experience. They are automatically added to your onboard account and help to ensure that the crew members who work tirelessly to make your vacation memorable are properly compensated for their exceptional service.

The automatic gratuity policy on Disney Cruise Line is designed to simplify the tipping process for guests. Instead of having to carry cash and worry about distributing tips individually, the gratuities are conveniently added to your stateroom account at the end of each day.

The amount of automatic gratuity varies depending on the length of your cruise and the type of stateroom you have. As of [date], the standard gratuities for a seven-night cruise are approximately $14.50 per person, per day for guests staying in a standard stateroom and $17.50 per person, per day for guests staying in a concierge-level stateroom. These figures are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information when planning your cruise.

It’s important to note that automatic gratuities are divided among the entire crew, including the dining room servers, stateroom hosts, assistant servers, and other onboard staff who contribute to your overall experience. By distributing the gratuities in this manner, it ensures that everyone who plays a part in making your cruise enjoyable receives a fair share.

In addition to the automatic gratuities, there may be service charges for certain amenities and experiences on the ship, such as spa treatments, specialty dining, and alcoholic beverages. These service charges are not included in the automatic gratuity and are typically added to your bill when you make use of these services.

Understanding the gratuity policies and guidelines on Disney Cruise is crucial for a stress-free and enjoyable vacation. The next section will delve deeper into the specifics of the automatic gratuities and their importance in recognizing the exceptional service provided by the crew members.

Understanding the Automatic Gratuity Policy

Disney Cruise Line has an automatic gratuity policy in place to ensure that the crew members who make your vacation unforgettable are properly appreciated and rewarded for their exceptional service. This policy streamlines the tipping process, making it easier for guests to show their gratitude without the need for handling cash or worrying about individual tip amounts.

Automatic gratuities are added to your stateroom account on a daily basis and are divided among the crew members who provide service to you throughout your cruise. The amount of gratuity per person, per day, is determined by the length of your cruise and the type of stateroom you have.

It’s important to note that the automatic gratuity is not mandatory, and guests have the flexibility to adjust or remove it if they wish. If you feel that the service provided does not meet your expectations, or if you prefer to personally reward specific crew members who have gone above and beyond, you can visit Guest Services to make modifications to the gratuity amount.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that the automatic gratuity serves as a crucial part of the crew members’ compensation. These hardworking individuals rely on gratuities to supplement their wages, and by adjusting or removing the automatic gratuity, you may be unintentionally impacting their livelihood.

To ensure transparency and fairness, Disney Cruise Line provides guidelines on their website that outline the breakdown of the automatic gratuity distribution. By referencing these guidelines, you can get a better understanding of how your gratuity contributes to the various departments, such as dining, housekeeping, and youth activities.

It’s worth noting that the automatic gratuity is not intended to cover exceptional service that goes above and beyond. If a crew member goes the extra mile to make your cruise experience even more magical, it is customary to express your gratitude with an additional tip or by submitting a commendation to the crew member’s supervisor. These acts of appreciation are greatly valued and motivate the crew members to continue providing exceptional service to all guests.

Now that you have a better understanding of the automatic gratuity policy, let’s explore why these gratuities are so important on a Disney Cruise.

Importance of Gratuities on Disney Cruise

Gratuities play a vital role in ensuring that the crew members on a Disney Cruise feel appreciated and valued for their exceptional service. These hardworking individuals go above and beyond to create magical experiences for guests, and gratuities serve as a tangible way to acknowledge and reward their efforts. Here are a few reasons why gratuities are crucial on a Disney Cruise:

• Recognizing Exceptional Service: The crew members on a Disney Cruise dedicate themselves to ensuring that every guest has a magical experience. From assisting with dining preferences to creating memorable interactions with beloved Disney characters, they work tirelessly to make your vacation unforgettable. By providing gratuities, you are showing gratitude for their exceptional service and acknowledging the impact they have on your cruise experience.
• Supporting Crew Member Livelihoods: While the crew members on a Disney Cruise are compensated for their work, gratuities make up a significant portion of their income. These individuals work long hours and often spend months away from their families to provide exceptional service to guests. By offering gratuities, you are helping to support their livelihoods and recognize the hard work and sacrifices they make to ensure your cruise is magical.
• Motivating and Encouraging Excellence: The crew members on a Disney Cruise take great pride in their work and strive for excellence in every aspect of their service. When guests show their appreciation through gratuities, it serves as a powerful motivator and encourages crew members to continue providing exceptional experiences for future guests. Your gratuities not only reward past service but also inspire the crew to maintain the highest standards in their future interactions.
• Contributing to a Positive Work Environment: A positive work environment is essential for the crew members to thrive and deliver exceptional service consistently. Your gratuities contribute to fostering a supportive atmosphere, where crew members feel valued and appreciated. This positive environment translates into better experiences for guests, as happy and motivated crew members are more likely to go above and beyond to create magical moments during your cruise.

Gratuities on a Disney Cruise are not just about the financial aspect; they are a way to express gratitude, support the crew members, and contribute to the overall magical experience onboard. By recognizing the importance of gratuities and extending your appreciation, you play a vital role in making the Disney Cruise experience truly unforgettable.

Now that we understand the significance of gratuities, let’s delve into the service charges and guidelines associated with them on a Disney Cruise.

Service Charges and Guidelines

In addition to automatic gratuities, there may be service charges associated with specific amenities and experiences on a Disney Cruise. These service charges are not included in the automatic gratuity and are typically added to your bill when you make use of these services. Here are a few examples of service charges and guidelines to keep in mind:

• Specialty Dining: If you choose to dine at one of the specialty restaurants onboard, such as Palo or Remy, there is a service charge per person, which covers the exceptional dining experience and personalized service. The amount of the service charge varies depending on the restaurant and is subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before making reservations.
• Spa and Salon Services: Indulging in a relaxing massage, rejuvenating facial, or glamorous makeover at the spa and salon on the ship is an exquisite treat. These services incur an additional service charge, which is not included in the automatic gratuity. The service charge contributes to the professionalism and expertise of the spa and salon staff, ensuring that you receive top-notch pampering during your cruise.
• Alcoholic Beverages: Enjoying a cocktail by the pool or savoring a glass of wine with your dinner is part of the onboard experience. Alcoholic beverages are subject to an additional service charge, separate from the automatic gratuity. This service charge helps support the bartenders and servers who craft and deliver your favorite drinks with precision and flair.

When it comes to service charges, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines set by Disney Cruise Line. These guidelines ensure that the crew members who provide these specialized services are properly recognized and compensated. It’s customary to adhere to the service charges as they are outlined and pay them accordingly to show appreciation for the exceptional experiences you receive onboard.

While automatic gratuities and service charges cover the majority of situations, there may be instances where you wish to offer additional gratuities for extraordinary service or personalized experiences. In such cases, you can provide additional cash tips to express your appreciation directly to the crew members who went above and beyond to make your cruise extraordinary.

Understanding the service charges and guidelines associated with gratuities will help ensure a smooth and seamless experience during your Disney Cruise. As we continue our journey through the world of gratuities, let’s explore alternative options for gratuity management that Disney Cruise Line offers.

Alternatives to Automatic Gratuities

While Disney Cruise Line’s automatic gratuity policy simplifies the tipping process, there are alternative options available for guests who prefer to customize their gratuity experience. Here are a few alternatives to the automatic gratuity system:

• Adjusting the Automatic Gratuity: If you feel that the automatic gratuity amount does not align with your preferences or if you have experienced service that falls below your expectations, you have the option to adjust the gratuity amount. You can visit Guest Services during your cruise to modify the automatic gratuity per person, per day. However, it’s important to consider the impact of this adjustment on the crew members’ livelihoods, as gratuities are a significant part of their income.
• Additional Cash Tips: In addition to the automatic gratuity, you can provide additional cash tips to crew members who have gone above and beyond to make your cruise exceptional. This allows you to personally recognize and reward specific individuals for their outstanding service. Cash tips can be given directly to the crew members or handed to their supervisors to ensure it reaches the intended recipient.
• Tipping Envelopes: Some guests prefer to use traditional tipping envelopes to distribute gratuities. These envelopes can be obtained from Guest Services, and guests can place the desired amount of cash inside each envelope to be distributed to specific crew members. This method offers a more personal and tangible way to express gratitude.

When considering alternatives to automatic gratuities, it’s important to remember that the crew members rely on these gratuities as a significant part of their income. By adjusting or removing automatic gratuities, or not providing additional cash tips, it can impact the livelihoods of the hardworking crew members who strive to make your cruise magical.

Regardless of the gratuity method you choose, it’s crucial to communicate your appreciation to the crew members directly or by submitting commendations for exceptional service. These gestures of gratitude are deeply valued and serve as motivation for crew members to continue providing exceptional experiences for all guests.

Now that we have explored the alternative options for gratuity management, let’s dive into the specific departments and guidelines for tipping onboard a Disney Cruise.

Tipping Etiquette for Different Departments

When it comes to gratuities on a Disney Cruise, it’s important to understand the etiquette and guidelines for tipping the different departments on board. Here is a breakdown of the suggested tipping etiquette for various departments:

• Dining Room Servers and Assistant Servers: The dining room servers play a crucial role in ensuring delightful culinary experiences during your cruise. It is customary to tip them directly and separately from the automatic gratuity. The suggested guideline is $4-5 per person, per night for the dining room server and $2-3 per person, per night for the assistant server. These tips can be given in cash or added to the gratuity envelopes if you choose to use them.
• Stateroom Host/Hostess: The stateroom host or hostess is responsible for the cleanliness and maintenance of your cabin. It is customary to tip them directly and separately from the automatic gratuity. The suggested guideline is $4-5 per person, per night for the stateroom host/hostess. Similar to the dining room servers, these tips can be given in cash or added to the gratuity envelopes.
• Head Server and Head Server Assistant (for larger dining rooms): If you dine in the larger dining rooms, there may be head servers and head server assistants overseeing your dining experience. While not mandatory, it is customary to show appreciation for their service as well. The suggested guideline is $1-2 per person, per night for the head server and head server assistant, which can be presented in cash or included in the gratuity envelopes.
• Others: There are various other crew members who contribute to the magic of your Disney Cruise, such as the Youth Activities Counselors, Port Adventures Guides, and Spa/Salon service providers. While automatic gratuities may cover some of these areas, it is customary to provide additional cash tips for exceptional service in these departments if you feel inclined to do so.

Remember, these are suggested guidelines, and if you have received exceptional service or wish to show extra appreciation, you can adjust the gratuity amounts accordingly. Whether you choose to provide additional cash tips or adjust the automatic gratuity, expressing your gratitude to the crew members directly or through commendations is always appreciated.

Now that we have covered the tipping etiquette for different departments, let’s discuss some tips for gratuity planning and budgeting to help you prepare for your Disney Cruise.

Tips for Gratuity Planning and Budgeting

Proper planning and budgeting for gratuities on a Disney Cruise not only ensures a seamless experience but also allows you to show appreciation for the outstanding service provided by the crew. Here are some helpful tips for gratuity planning and budgeting:

• Research and Understand the Gratuity Policies: Before embarking on your Disney Cruise, take the time to research and familiarize yourself with the automatic gratuity policy. Understand the suggested gratuity amounts per person, per day, based on the length of your cruise and the type of stateroom you have. This will give you a baseline for budgeting purposes.
• Incorporate Gratuities into Your Overall Cruise Budget: When planning your cruise budget, be sure to allocate funds specifically for gratuities. Consider the number of days you’ll be sailing, the number of guests in your party, and the suggested gratuity amounts. This will help you set aside an appropriate amount to cover gratuities without any last-minute surprises.
• Set Aside Cash for Additional Tips: While automatic gratuities cover most areas, there may be instances where you want to provide additional cash tips for exceptional service or personalize your gratuities. Set aside some extra cash specifically for these instances, ensuring you have it readily available to show appreciation to deserving crew members.
• Use Tipping Envelopes: Tipping envelopes can be a convenient way to separate and distribute gratuities to the different crew members. If you choose to use them, have them prepared beforehand and ensure you have enough cash to fill them accordingly. This can help you stay organized and easily provide the correct amount to each crew member.
• Consider Pre-Paid Gratuities: Disney Cruise Line offers the option to pre-pay your gratuities before your cruise. This allows you to settle your gratuity obligations in advance, alleviating the need to budget for them during your vacation. It can provide peace of mind and simplify your financial planning.
• Recognize Exceptional Service: While budgeting for gratuities, keep in mind that outstanding service deserves recognition. If you receive exceptional service from a specific crew member, be prepared to offer an additional cash tip or submit a commendation to highlight their exceptional efforts. These acts of recognition can have a profound impact on crew morale and motivation.

By incorporating these tips into your gratuity planning and budgeting, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience onboard your Disney Cruise. Your thoughtful preparation will enable you to show your appreciation to the hardworking crew members who make your vacation truly magical.

Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Disney Cruise gratuities to provide further clarity and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions and answers regarding Disney Cruise gratuities:

• Q: Can I adjust or remove the automatic gratuity? A: Yes, you have the option to adjust or remove the automatic gratuity by visiting Guest Services during your cruise. However, it’s important to remember that gratuities are a significant part of the crew members’ income, so any adjustments should be made with careful consideration.
• Q: Can I provide additional gratuities for exceptional service? A: Absolutely! If you receive exceptional service from a specific crew member, it is customary to offer an additional cash tip to show your appreciation. You can also submit a commendation to the crew member’s supervisor, highlighting their exceptional efforts.
• Q: Are gratuities mandatory? A: While the automatic gratuity is automatically added to your onboard account, it is not mandatory. However, it is highly encouraged to recognize and appreciate the exceptional service provided by the crew members through gratuities.
• Q: How do I handle gratuities for room service? A: Room service is typically covered by the automatic gratuity. However, it is customary to provide an additional cash tip to the crew member delivering the service to show your appreciation.
• Q: Can I tip in currencies other than US dollars? A: While the preferred currency for gratuities onboard is US dollars, crew members will gladly accept other widely recognized currencies. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with Guest Services regarding the currency accepted onboard before providing gratuities.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions regarding Disney Cruise gratuities. Remember, gratuities are a way to show appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the crew members, and they play a vital role in their livelihoods.

Now, let’s conclude our journey through the world of Disney Cruise gratuities.

As we reach the end of our exploration of gratuities on a Disney Cruise, it’s clear that these expressions of appreciation are a fundamental part of the onboard experience. By recognizing and rewarding the exceptional service provided by the hardworking crew members, you contribute to their livelihoods and help create a positive and motivating work environment.

Disney Cruise Line has a well-defined gratuity policy in place, with automatic gratuities added to your onboard account as a convenient way to show your appreciation. However, it’s important to understand the guidelines, consider additional cash tips for outstanding service, and budget accordingly to ensure a seamless and gratifying experience.

Remember, gratuities go beyond the financial aspect. They are a tangible way to express gratitude, motivate the crew members, and foster a culture of exceptional service. By providing gratuities, you become an integral part of the magical experience aboard a Disney Cruise.

Whether you choose to adjust the automatic gratuity or provide additional cash tips, always remember to communicate your appreciation directly to the crew members or commend them through the appropriate channels. Your acts of recognition will have a lasting impact and inspire the crew members to continue creating unforgettable moments for future guests.

So, as you embark on your Disney Cruise adventure, enjoy the enchantment, immerse yourself in the magic, and don’t forget to show your appreciation through gratuities. Let the dedicated crew members know that their exceptional service has made your dreams come true.

Bon voyage and may your Disney Cruise be filled with joy, wonder, and gratitude!

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Tipping on a Disney Cruise Wasn’t What I Expected – (Here’s How it Works)

When I disembarked my first Disney cruise, I’d had a brilliant time, but something happened with the tipping and automatic gratuities which I didn’t expect.

I’ve cruised with many cruise lines and haven’t ever come across the situation I encountered on my Disney cruise.

In this post, we will look at how tipping works on a Disney cruise, how the gratuities are split between the crew, and how they can be removed if required.

Disney are a big American cruise line and they add automatic gratuities.

The idea behind automatic gratuities is that you don’t have to give physical tips to the crew because they’ve automatically been added to your account. They’ll automatically come off your card – you don’t have to see them – you don’t have to do anything with them.

That’s kind of the selling point of automatic gratuities.

I’m from the UK, and we don’t have the same tipping culture as Americans do.

Most of the cruise lines here tend to add in the cost of gratuities to the cruise fare.

I personally prefer that, but if there are gratuities, I just pay them, then they’re done.

Normally, on every other cruise, I’ve ever been on, I never have to think about the gratuities again, because I have just paid them.

Some people will tip extra in cash above that, which is totally fine, and always appreciated I’m sure – but you don’t have to.

I feel like if you’ve done the automatic gratuities, you can rest easy, you can enjoy your cruise, you’ve given everybody your tips and the idea is that you don’t have to do anything with it again.

How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise?

Disney Cruise Line charges each guest an automatic gratuity to cover the tips for the crew, this is usually $14.50 per person per night.

This amount is split between the crew members automatically and can be removed if requested. Guests are welcome to tip above and beyond this amount .

On Disney, they have automatic gratuities, so I was a bit confused when I came back to my room and I saw a letter and it said:

You’ve paid automatic gratuities and what we want you to do now is to take this piece of paper, to rip it up into everybody’s names and how much money you’re giving them and then put it in the little envelopes and go and give them to the people. I just found that really strange…

I just thought that the selling point of automatic gratuities was that I didn’t have to do that really awkward thing of handing over cash, or handing over envelopes at dinner.

It may be to do with the fact that I’m from the UK and we don’t really do the tipping thing that I find that so awkward. We pretty much just said “Thank you, Bye,” – and left the little pieces of paper on the table at dinner on the last night and then we left.

“As a convenience, we have added gratuities of $14.50 per day for each member of your party to your onboard account. Your gratuity tickets are located on the reverse side of this form. Please separate them into the gratuity envelopes provided so that you can personally present them to your service team” Disney Cruise Line

I found it really strange and awkward. I just didn’t really know how to act.

I don’t know if it’s designed like that, maybe so that you’ll slip in an extra $20 here – or maybe some people actually like giving the envelope and giving the tip to the person and saying “thank you. “

For me, that’s why I pay the automatic gratuities so that I don’t have to go through that. It did say in the letter that if you don’t give them to them, they’ll still get the money.

The pieces of paper are pretty much just a symbol, but I kind of felt like I had to, or otherwise, they would feel like I didn’t appreciate them and I want to say thank you.

How Are Disney Cruise Tips Split Amongst The Crew?

The below shows the automatic gratuity costs split among the crew. The automatic gratuities are given only to these four positions and crew members in behind-the-scenes roles, such as the onboard laundry, don’t receive a part of this.

I just don’t know where I stand on this.

If you came into your cabin after paying your automatic gratuities and had to give these pieces of paper to the crew, would you find that weird?

To learn more about how automatic gratuities work, check out this post:

Cruise Gratuities: A Simple Step by Step Guide For First Time Cruisers

Can You Remove The Automatic Gratuities on a Disney Cruise?

It is possible to remove the automatic gratuities on a Disney cruise by visiting Reception. The automatic gratuities can also be reduced.

If you do want to remove automatic gratuities expect to be asked why, it’s generally assumed that this will only be removed in the case of bad service.

Additional Gratuities

There are a couple of other places where gratuities are added:

• In the speciality restaurants Palo/Remy – a18% gratuity is added at dinner time. Gratuities aren’t automatically added for brunch.
• In the spa and salon – 18% gratuity is added to all treatments.
• All drinks have 18% added on as an automatic gratuity.

To find out what I loved (and hated) about my first Disney cruise, check out this video next:

I thought I knew what to expect from a Disney cruise but this cruise was the biggest culture shock ever ! Find out how I got on onboard Disney Magic here:

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How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Vacation Cost?

Wondering how much a Disney Cruise Line vacation cost? We break down the specifics to help guide you through what you need to know.

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation can be a bit overwhelming. Whether it’s choosing your ship or the time of year you want to sail, you’ll find no lack of choices with Disney cruises. 

In this guide, we will break down how much an average Disney Cruise Line vacation can cost. Additionally, we’ll look at how the price can differentiate depending on which ship and time you sail, and other amenities and add-ons. 

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Sailing Cost?

While this is a simple question, it is not so simple to answer.  When considering a Disney Cruise Line vacation you can book on one of five different ships: Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , and Disney Wish . (A sixth ship, Disney Treasure , will be joining the fleet in 2024 .)

Within each Disney Cruise Line ship, you will have the option of various types of rooms. These include an inside stateroom, a stateroom with a porthole, a stateroom with a verandah, and a concierge room. Or, on the ships where they are available, a specialty suite stateroom. 

Below is an outline of what each stateroom offers:

• Inside Stateroom : This type of stateroom is perfect for two to four Guests and includes all the necessities, such as a closet, drawers for your clothes, a bed, etc. There are no windows or ocean views with an inside stateroom.
• Oceanview Stateroom : This stateroom is the next level up from an inside stateroom and is also perfect for parties with two to four Guests. While you won’t be able to step out and feel the fresh breeze on your face, you will still be able to see the stunning ocean view through the in-room porthole.
• Oceanview with Verandah : Now, for those who want to get a bit more boujee, I recommend the Oceanview with a Verandah. Not only are these staterooms spacious, but they are perfect for parties between two and five people and offer a private verandah (also known as a balcony) so that you and your party can enjoy the fresh breeze and ocean smells all in your own private space.
• Concierge : Now we are getting into the royalty of Disney Cruise Line staterooms. A Concierge Suite is the biggest onboard accommodation and is perfect for parties of five to seven Guests. There are a number of different suite options, but all of them include a verandah. All Concierge-level staterooms offer personal attention from Concierge Services, making you feel like a King or Queen. 

But one of the most important factors in a Disney Cruise Line vacation is where the cruise ship leaves from, what the itinerary consists of, and the duration of the entire cruise. 

What we mean by that is – each of the Disney Cruise Line ships offers a different duration of sailing and a different itinerary. For example, the Disney Wish typically sails out of Port Canaveral, Florida on three- to five-night cruises to the Bahamas while the Disney Wonder offers longer cruises to places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Coast, and has departure ports in Canada, Australia, and other locations. 

Photo by Bill Ryan

With all of this being said, the baseline of a Disney Cruise Line vacation can range anywhere from $1,300 (for a three-night sailing with an inside stateroom) to nearly $30,000 (for a 10-night sailing with a concierge-level room.) 

Cost of Booking a Disney Cruise

While that range is huge , what’s nice about the baseline pricing is that your room, and dining options are included in the base price. That includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the quick-service locations and main dining rooms, select snacks, entertainment, and activities on board.

For example, each night you will be assigned dinner in one of the three main dining rooms on your Disney Cruise Line ship . Anything you order (besides alcohol or specialty drinks) is included in the price of your cruise. This is in addition to any room service or quick-service locations on board that you may utilize for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack. 

Arendelle on the Disney Wish. Photo by Danny Shuster

In addition to food, Disney Cruise Line offers state-of-the-art entertainment options every night during your sailing. This includes Broadway-style shows and live music in select lounges and bars. Movies will also be playing periodically throughout the day on both the Tunnel Vision (the outside screen by the pools) and in the Walt Disney movie theater. All of these entertainment options are included with the price of your cruise (plus, what’s a movie without popcorn? And yes, the popcorn is free, too!)

When you have decided on which ship and which itinerary you want to set sail on, you will be required to put down a deposit, and then you can make payments on your vacation until the full amount is due (typically a few months before your sailing.). After your cruise is paid in full, you can then begin booking extras aboard Disney Cruise Line, such as massages at the Senses Spa, wine and beer tastings, adult dining options, and more – which brings us to our next question. 

What is NOT Included in the Cost of Booking

While, for the most part, everything is included with the price of your cruise, some offerings come at an extra cost. Let’s break down some of what that entails.

Transportation and Parking at the Port

Parking fees at the departure ports can vary, depending on what state or country you are sailing out of. But, to give you an idea, parking at Port Canaveral, which is driving distance from Walt Disney World, is $17 per day plus tax.

If you are not looking to park your car at a cruise terminal, and are looking for a transfer, Disney Cruise Line does offer transfers to and from most airports and departure ports. For example, from Vancouver airport to the Vancouver cruise port, Disney offers transfers for $25 per person each way. Meanwhile, transfers from Disney World to Port Canaveral cost $39 per person each way. 

Specialty Dining, Non-Included Food and Drinks

While most food and soft drinks are included with the price of your Disney Cruise Line vacation, some options are not included, such as alcoholic beverages. On average, alcoholic drinks can range in price from $6 to over $20, depending on what you order.

While Disney does not offer an alcoholic drink package for the duration of your cruise, they do offer a Beer Mug special, Happy Hour specials, and a Sommelier Bin. Be sure to ask a Crew Member for the most updated information regarding these special offers once you are on board as they may vary from ship to ship or cruise to cruise. 

Disney Cruise Line also offers specialty dining, which is not part of the three main dining rooms that we mentioned before. These specialty dining options are for adults only, and while they cost extra money, it may be worth the price for an intimate night alone with your other half. Palo and Remy are the two adults-only restaurants on Disney Cruise Line. 

Palo on the Disney Wonder. Photo by Bill Wood.

Palo dining prices are set at $50 per person for either an all-you-can-eat brunch or a prix fixe dinner, while Remy dining prices are as follows:

• Dinner is $125 per person. 
• Brunch is $75 per person. 
• The Remy Dessert Experience is $60 per person.

When on a Disney Cruise Line, you can opt to pre-pay for gratuities for a carefree, all-inclusive experience. Pre-paid gratuities are for the following Crew Members who take care of you for the duration of your cruise:

• Dining room server
• Dining room assistant server
• Dining room head server
• Stateroom host

To pre-pay for gratuities, visit the My Reservations section in your Disney account and follow the prompts for Pre-Paid Gratuities. If you do not want to Pre-Pay Gratuities, Disney will automatically charge your onboard account the suggested gratuity amount of $14.50 per night, per stateroom Guest.

In addition to your dining staff and stateroom hosts, an 18% gratuity is automatically added to any bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs, and spa services. If you order room service, add extras to your rotational dining, or visit one of the adults-only restaurants, gratuities are not automatically included.

Cost of Excursions

When sailing on Disney Cruise Line, you can book extras on board such as beer and wine seminars, spa services, and more. Additionally, off-board excursions such as kayaking, sightseeing, beach days, and more are offered. Each of these “extras” will cost you extra money, but the prices will vary depending on the type of offering or excursion. Be sure to check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app when looking at these offerings. 

Cost of Spa Services

Each Disney Cruise Line ship features a Senses Spa. Guests can choose from a multitude of spa and beauty treatments, including manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and more. Each of these services is not included in the price of your Disney Cruise Line vacation. For the most updated pricing, be sure to check on your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. 

Senses on the Disney Dream. Photo by Todd Turner

If you still have questions on how much a Disney Cruise Line vacation may cost, or if you are having trouble deciding which ship or itinerary to choose, we recommend reaching out to our partners at Destinations to Travel. They’ll provide you with a free quote and help plan out your trip to make it as magical as possible.

The post How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Vacation Cost? appeared first on WDW Magazine .

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Disney Cruise Line Increases Base Gratuities

Beginning January 19, 2019, Disney Cruise Line will increase their recommended gratuity guidelines for select positions. The keyword here is select . The recommended increase is $.50 per passenger/per day for the Dining Room Service Team (Server & Assistant Server) and Stateroom Host/Hostess. The total recommended gratuity is $13.50 per passenger/per day based. Total gratuity is based on the length of the cruise. Based on the $1.50 increase, this implies the head server is not one of the tipped positions included in this change.

If pre-paid gratuities were added to a reservation prior to January 18, 2019, the rate the Guest is charged will remain $12.00 per Guest, per night. Guests who add pre-paid gratuities to their reservation January 18, 2019, or later will be charged the new rate of $13.50 per Guest, per night.

The timing of price changes varies by ship:

• Disney Fantasy –  Saturday January 19, 2019  7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral with Star Wars Day at Sea
• Disney Magic –  Sunday January 20, 2019  5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami with Marvel Day at Sea
• Disney Wonder –  Sunday January 20, 2019 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise on Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream –  Monday January 21, 2019 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

The last time Disney increased the recommended gratuities was in 2008.

Our tip calculator has been updated to reflect the change.

What are your thoughts on the increase? Do you normally add additional gratuity based on overall service or do you stick with the recommended tip amounts?

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30 Replies to “Disney Cruise Line Increases Base Gratuities”

I have no issue with this whatsoever. The service on DCL has always been impeccable and we always tip more than this amount. These professionals deserve even more in IMHO.

You’re right dan we always give over and above

The service teams work very hard. I’ve always felt the gratuities were too low and have added additional cash to the tip envelopes.

Hi Scott, This seem odd. Is it $12.50 or $13.50 PPPD. You mention the .50 increase and that doesn’t calculate to $13.30. Please clarify this increase, thanks.

Laura, I cleaned up the post. The keyword in DCL’s update was “select positions.” After reading it over, I suspect the head server will remain at $1 per person per day.

Thanks, I was getting way too many questions about this. Much Appreciated.

I have no problem with this I don’t think they get enough for what they do I always tip extra in cash

Makes sense to me. I always ended up tipping a little bit more anyway. As for the Head Server, other than my 10-nights Norway/Iceland cruise last Summer, and my first cruise on the Dream 5 years ago, they never made much difference anyway – and most times, I even struggled as to why they actually get tips – maybe they do a lot of work being the scenes that doesn’t get noticed…

Yes, head servers do a lot of behind the scenes work, stepping in to assist where needed when a serving team is challenged. We have experienced this on a number of cruises. The other factor for cruisers managing food allergies is the role the head server plays in making certain things are handled properly. We have consistently increased gratuities for all of the tipped positions with added cash, and sometimes the head server has received the same added amount as our server or stateroom host, more than doubling the gratuity in such a case.

The head servers do an incredible amount of work behind the scenes, especially (as happened to us on our last cruise) when there is a particularly difficult guest (loud and racist…need I say more?) who needs to be dealt with to protect the experience of other folks.

I have no complaints about the increase, but it would have been nice to have more of a warning about it. Posting the day it took effect was wrong.

We have always added to the base, feeling quite frankly that the service staff, across the board, are poorly compensated with the tipping recommendations. We have also started identifying folks that are not on the usual tip list (like those wonderful folks near the pool…..or the ones stopping to chat while you are sunning on the upper deck) for an extra thank you. Guest services is really good at tracking down complete names then providing a slip so that we can tip them. We cruise only on the longer trips…so there’s ample opportunity to develop friendly interactions…and we feel quite fortunate to have met folks from a myriad of different countries and cultures…all of whom work their butts off to ensure that WE have a restful trip.

I echo the sentiment this modest increase is well deserved. I also never understood the “head server” receiving a gratuity until our family also needed an “intervention” in the dining room due to behaviors of another cruiser. The team made magic happen & the head server was the catalyst for a near unpleasant experience being practically erased from our minds. Our service has always been well deserving of additional gratuity and we bring extra cash to stuff in the envelope, actually after 6 DCL adventures never once have we not felt the need to do so, especially our room stewards! In addition, we make sure to note everyone’s name by keeping the gratuity slip receipt or writing additional names if needed and upon returning home we write an email to DCL mentioning by name the crew members that made our vacation so special. I derive much joy sending those thoughts their way, they worked incredibly hard for our enjoyment. I could not do their job and hope the comments get forwarded so they know how much they meant to us. Hard working is an understatement in our opinion!

The crew members you mention in comments do get copies. Our head server was incredible. He always went above and beyond for us. I agree with the others, they deserve far more than what they get. We usually, at least, double the tips.

Thanks so much Rose, great to know. I always wondered if the crew were aware of our emails. Money is great but I can’t help think that when they read the positive thoughts it puts a smile on their face.

Head server is the one coordinating service team (server and ass. server), challenges in the kitchen with food, special requests, special dietary requirements, allergies. Special celebrations. Issues with other guests, seating arrangements… and a lot more… as well supervised Cabanas during breakfast and lunch, and whole food service operation on the island… and its tipping position without increasing. 1$ per guest.

After reading some of the comments i might be the only one that has a problem with this. Let me explain why. I live on a budget and i been saving and struggling to take my first cruise for 3 and a half years now and i am finally going on my first this February. I have everything all planned and all the money i would need for tips, etc etc. Now out of no where with 3 weeks away from my cruise Disney wants to raise prices on tips and they already recently raised the price for their bus transportation and tickets to Disney land Sorry But i don’t agree with this. Disney cruise line is already to expensive as it is and most people who go on Disney cruises over and over again “Like most of you that read this and comment here” good for you but remember not all people out there get to go on Disney cruises every year because they don’t have the money to go and maybe will never go again, i am one of those people. this will be my first and last cruise simply because its way to expensive and the whole planning thing as been nothing but a headache for me. times are tough for a lot of people out there Look at this government shutdown that is hurting a lot of people including me What a great time to raise prices when people are hurting the most come on Disney stop being so greedy for money. Disney is a billion dollar company there is no need to keep rises prices for so many things. I’m sorry i know this is going to sound like i am a very bad person but i will not be giving more then i plan to for tips i will be sticking to my budget and will be deceasing the amount even if i do get great service. is one thing if i have the money but if i don’t then i don’t, this is way to much of a short notice. I read in one comment that they should have at lease have more of a warning about it. that’s is so true or at lease let it take effect for people who about to plan a cruise and not for people who already have a cruse booked. I also just want to say i don’t mean to be so negative about this issue and sound like a horrible person but you have to understand where i am coming from, don’t get me wrong i’m sure that all the crew on this ship do an amazing job and they do deserve to be treated right and get paid for all their hard work they do to make every one have a wonderful experience and have a great vacation and go above and beyond but come on they get good money think about it add up all the tips they get from every one on that cruise we are talking about a ship that holds about 4,000 passengers.do the math folks they get paid good i know they get more then i do. i have minimum wage job and what i get paid a year they get triple that or more being on a one week cruise. and one more thing to add i read and heard to that they get more then what they ask for when people add more to the tips so they are all ready getting more then enough to make up for people who cant afford to give them more and under the amount. Their my rant is over and i know people are not going to like me for it but its my opinion and it’s the way i feel.

Frank, I think you make a well reasoned statement about budgeting and hope you have a great cruise! Many people cruise intermittently because of budgetary guidelines, so don’t think you are solo in that. While I don’t have a problem with the new tipping rates, it’s always nice to hear a well stated opposing view.

Thank you Kate i appreciate you understanding my statement, and thank you i hope i do have a great cruise because this is a one in a life time chance for me and as much i would love to go on more cruises i know i’m not going to be able to. at least not Disney, unless i win the lottery, lol. One other thing i forget to mention in my statement was something else Disney just raised the price for and that’s the Palo dinner from $30 to $40 now is that ridiculous or what. makes me think what else is going to be raised in the next 3 weeks. enough is enough already. Disney is hurting some people’s pockets. Makes some people feel they can’t never do a Disney cruise. and i feel sorry for the people that can’t experience it at lease one time in life.

Frank- I like to think on this Disney blog we are free to voice our thoughts with respect for each other’s different scenario’s. I agree with you there should have been a bit more notice. I applaud your budgeting & taking your family to experience the Magic, we plan for years just as it seems you do. There is nothing more vacation crushing then arriving home to an astronomical credit card bill, it just takes away from the whole experience. We actually book using a TA and/or while on board & utilize our OBC for the auto gratuity portion, that is why I never pre-pay. You neither sound horrible or negative, and surely not the only one who feels like this, just the bravest for articulating your thoughts! I wish for you a most wonderful magical cruise. Your family is blessed to have you !!!

Thank you Denise that was really nice of you to say, People on this Disney blog sound like nice and respectful people and its nice to know there is folks out there that can understand my opinion. i also did use a TA to get OBC but even with that its still so expensive but it does help. i plan to use my OBC on souvenirs so i can have things to remember one of my dreams coming true. thank you again for your kind words.

I totally support this. They work so hard and give us so much magic! Can’t wait to go back!

We have always added a generous amount to the tips for the crew. However, I am taking my entire family of 15 on the Fantasy this year and some of them are better off financially than others. It would have been nice to have been contacted by DCL in advance of the increase in the base tip rate so that those who needed to save some money would have had the option to do so. Hearing about it after the fact was unfortunate.

I have been on 11 Disney cruises and always pre-pay my tips but I still give extra tips in cash to stateroom attendant, dining room servers and bartender. I have no problem with the increased gratuity amounts. The service on Disney ships is impeccable and the crew members are hard working. Kudos to Disney for the increase.

Please keep in mind that these are suggested tip amounts for excellent services, per DCL’s website. The site also states that “If you wish to change the amount of a gratuity or pay the gratuity in cash, stop by the Guest Services desk, located on Deck 3, Midship.”

Personally, I either a) add to the suggested tip amounts, or b) opt out of the onboard charge and tip in cash the amount I prefer. I certainly understand budget constraints, having used them myself often.

This extra couple of dollars to be paid for the hardworking servers is completely reasonable. They should be paid more.

Someone commented about servers getting paid their tips by all 4,000 passengers, but that is ridiculous. Each server works with a limited subset of passengers. There are hundreds of servers per ship.

Anyone who pays thousands of dollars for a single Disney cruise, but can’t afford the extra $10 – $20 dollars this increase will cost them, needs to reconsider whether they should be even be taking such an out of reach vacation. I might get flamed for saying that, but it’s the truth.

Well pixie that is your opinion and you have the right to it. As for the 4,000 passengers comment i may be wrong about that since i don’t know how that part works yet but it’s good to know and learn that each server works with limited passengers thanks for pointing that out. Maybe i want to far on my rant because quite frankly I’m getting tired of hearing about increases about so many other things. Yes maybe the increase does not add up that much just by $10 or $20 and i had a feeling someone was going to say that But its not about the extra 10 or 20 dollars it’s the principle of the thing, sure its only 10 – 20 now but what if in 3 years its goes up again and again when is enough going to be enough. and is not just about the tip increase it about all the increases that goes on with Disney from the Palo dinner from $30 to $40 the Disney Bus transportation from $70 to $78 per person and all this happen with in a month and with no warning or notice whats so ever. all this adds up. they threw out too many increases at once. The point is there should be a good one month notice and when things go up in price it should not effect people who already booked a cruise before the increase.some people have budgets. and it takes a log time to save for things like this. Also you saying that people who can’t afford the extra 10 or 20 but spends thousands on the cruise it self should reconsider a cruise you have a point but to a certain extent. everyone should be able to experience a Disney cruise if they want to at lease one time in their life and if everything keeps going up there are people out there that will never get a chance to go on a Disney cruise and that is ridiculous.

I have a problem with the increase in the since that they did not notify those who are booked in advance. They have all our contact information and send e-mails almost every 2 weeks but could not send one to notify of the increase for those of use with large parties it made a big difference and the rate for Palo and Remy increased which is frustrating for those who could not book online as all the reservations booked up for club members. I do not disagree with the increase for the service providers what I do not agree with is that there was no pre-notification and the expenses are all so astronomical already. I have a party of 19 traveling and all the increases has made a large impact. Can I still afford the cruise yes however my expenses in increased fees are not what I hoped to spend my vacation money on 🙂

All you people who are complaining about an increase of stinking $1.50, per day, per person, for gratuities, are making me laugh. You spend thousands and thousands of dollars, to go on a Disney Cruise and you complain about “chump change”. Do you realize you have a gratuities added to your bill, each time you buy a alcoholic drink, on the Disney Cruise? That is automatic! No, fighting that! If you can afford to go on a Disney Cruise, then you should be able to afford a small increase in the gratuities, for the four people you are tipping. If you can’t afford a Disney Cruise, go on a different cruise line! Overall, I’ve been on 34 cruises in my life (I’m not bragging) and a lot of different cruise lines. Remember, you get what you pay for!! NEVER have I seen a crew or staff member get upset, on a Disney Cruise. No one is forcing you to go to Palo’s or Remy’s and spend the extra money. You can stick to the dining room and not worry about those extra charges, for a super fancy meal. I went to Remy’s ONCE. Never again! I don’t like to spend 3 1/2 hours for one meal. Too much show and too darn expensive. How much did you pay to park your vehicle, for the cruise? Do you complain about the taxes and port charges, you were charged? Do you work approximately 12-14 hours, a day, seven days a week? Yeah, that’s what I thought!! A lot of the staff works that many hours, EVERY SINGLE DAY! The crew and staff does NOT get a single day off, for months. Each one of them has to sign a contract, that last for months, at a time. However, if one of the crew or staff gets sick, they won’t have to work. They end up staying in their cabin, until they are better, to go back to work. Do you realize how hard some of these people are working? My guess is big NO. Do you think you could do their job, every single day, for months at a time? Yeah, right!! You wouldn’t last a single day! If you have a job, paying minimal wage, Good Luck! Go find a different job that pays more or go get a second job! Do you go out to eat at restaurants, on dry land? You have any idea how much a Disney Cruise meal would cost in a restaurant, on dry land? Some of those restaurants add an 18% gratuity, right to your bill. So, a $200 bill, would automatically cost you a $36 tip (18%). And a $200 bill is probably too low! Well, you all may not agree with me, but I’ve always give extra money to the everyone that works so hard on those cruise!!

I know this may sound insensitive, but anyone for whom an increase of a few dollars is an issue can not really afford the vacation.

One should always leave some cushion for these eventualities. It takes a lot of stress off of vacation planning.

When I travel outside of the US, I am always at the whim of foreign currency exchange rates that could potentially change the price of my vacation by hundreds of dollars. I wish that wasn’t the case (and yes, I am aware that I could buy currency in advance, or otherwise hedge the currency exchange rate to some extent).

Similarly, if I plan to drive somewhere, the price of gasoline could go up, as could the prices for food, admissions, etc.

It would be nice if everyone could afford a Disney cruise, but not everyone can. If everyone could, they would cost even more, because there would be more demand for the cabins.

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Disney Cruise Prepaid Gratuities Updated 2024

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If you want you can prepay your Disney Cruise Line Gratuities. However, in order to make this decision, you need to know how much they are, how to do that, and what to do if you don’t prepay.

Here we will give you all the information that you need to decide whether or not to pay for your Disney Cruise tips in advance.

Prepaid Gratuities

Firstly we will look at which of the Disney Cruise Cast Members receive the prepaid gratuities:

• Main Server. This is the main server in your rotational dining restaurant. They are usually outstanding and will help you with anything you need. Always ask them for recommendations from the menu as they know all the dishes and the feedback that they get from guests.
• Assistant Server. This is the server that will get your drinks and who assists your main server.
• Head Server. In each rotational dining restaurant, there are 4 Head Servers. You will always be assigned a Head Server who will come and talk to you every night. They are always available to assist if you have any concerns. They will talk to you about any special dietary needs you have – and you can choose from the menu the night before so they can accommodate you.
• Stateroom Host. This is the incredibly hard-working person who cleans your stateroom every day. They always seem to have a smile no matter what hour of the day. Always ask them if you need anything for your stateroom. They want you to be happy and of course, they will leave you with a towel animal every evening!

Here is your super handy Disney Cruise Line Tip Calculator.

This is for everyone in your stateroom no matter what their age. Children included.

These are the recommended amounts and this is what will be charged if you prepay your gratuities with Disney Cruise Line.

Should I Prepay?

There are two main reasons to prepay your gratuities:

• To “increase proof” the amount

Some people like to know that things are already paid for before they sail. If you are one of these people and would prefer to pay most of the costs of the cruise before you sail, then prepaying is something to consider.

The other reason is that you think that the amount of the gratuities might increase before you sail and you want to ensure that any rate change won’t impact you.

If you have already prepaid, and there is an increase before you cruise, you won’t have to pay the increased amount – although of course, you can still choose to pay extra.

Join my Disney Cruise Group for exclusive Tips and Free Giveaways!

How do I Prepay Disney Cruise Line Gratuities?

If you have booked your cruise with a Disney Travel Agent you should contact them directly and they will sort things out for you so that you can pay for the tips before you sail.

If you book directly you can call Disney Cruise Lines at 1 – 800 -951 – 3532 in the US or 1800 965 160 in Australia.

How to Pack Like a Cruise Travel Expert

Are There Any Other People I Need to Tip on a Disney Cruise?

There are other tips that will be charged automatically to your account when you are sailing on a Disney Cruise:

• If you purchase a drink on a Disney Cruise in the restaurant, any bars, or any other dining venue an automatic 18% gratuity will be added. You can add more if you wish.
• If you dine in Palo or Remy it is expected that you will leave a gratuity of approximately 20%. It is of course up to you as to the exact amount that you leave according to how you feel the level of service should be rewarded.
• If you go to a Beverage Tasting it is customary to leave a tip of 18% and upwards. These experiences are usually a whole lot of fun and the Bar Staff that host them are very knowledgeable about their subject.
• Disney Cruise Room Service is mostly free, but you really do need to tip the Cast Member who brings your order to you. You can either do this in cash or add a tip to the delivery slip that they will give you.
• If you are staying with Disney Cruise Concierge you need to tip your Concierge. These people are the best of the best and will help you with anything you need to make your Disney Cruise extra special.
• There is an automatic 18% tip added to all Disney Cruise Spa Services. I admit that this one is the one I struggle with a bit as I know that some people are unaware of this and add an additional tip. This is also added to all Rainforest Room bookings where really there is very little “service” element beyond giving you a wristband at the desk.

What If I Want to Adjust My Disney Cruise Tips When I am Sailing?

It is very easy to change the amount that you have prepaid for your Disney Cruise Line Gratuities.

At any time you can check your Disney Cruise account. You can do this by going to Guest Services or by checking on your Disney Cruise Navigator on your phone.

I suggest you do this every day – sometimes mistakes are made. It is a whole lot easier to sort the mistakes out prior to the last day when the line for Guest Services will be so much longer!

To adjust the amount of tips you just visit Guest Services. They can do this for you.

On the final night of your cruise, you will find some Tipping Envelopes in your stateroom.

You do not have to use these but it can be nice to do this so you can give them to your Server, Assistant Server, Head Server, and Stateroom Attendant.

You will be given envelopes and a printout with the name of the person to whom the tip is going and the amount of the tip.

If you haven’t added an amount with Guest Services you can add some cash to the envelope – this is what I usually do.

I always keep the printout with our Server’s names. This is so that we have a record of who they are so that it is easy to request them next time when we sail again.

Should I Prepay for My Disney Cruise Tips?

Some people prefer to prepay their tips and gratuities for their Disney Cruise as it helps them to budget. Knowing exactly what is going to be charged and pre-paying the tips is the right choice for some guests.

However, you do not have to pay the gratuities before you sail.

If you haven’t already paid your Disney Cruise tips you will be charged for them on board. These will be added to your onboard account.

You can adjust the amount that you pay and always retain control over the total.

Who Not To Tip on a Disney Cruise

There are certain people who are not allowed to accept tips on a Disney Cruise:

• Kids Club and Nursery Staff are not permitted to accept tips or gifts
• Bibbidi Boppidi Boo Staff are not permitted to accept tips or gifts

You may think that this is unfair and wonder how you can reward good service from these and other Cast Members if it isn’t by giving them a tip.

Fortunately, there is a way – and this includes all members of the Disney Cruise Crew .

If you have had great service from any members of the Disney Cruise Cast Members ( and believe me, you really will receive excellent and outstanding service) then recognize these people when you are handing in the survey at the end.

The Disney Cruise Survey really does matter.

If you mention a Cast Member as having made your Cruise extra special they do receive recognition.

Disney Cruise Lines take service extremely seriously so they do reward Cast Members if they receive great feedback.

These perks can include promotions, time off, and perks in the spa. Your opinion really does matter so please always think about the people who have made your Disney Cruise so special.

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Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

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Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, disney adults you’ll regret not taking 10 seconds to enter this sweepstakes.

A whole new world is just a sail away this summer with Disney Cruise Line’s newest sweepstakes!

This Disney Cruise Line announcement has us buzzing with excitement and it’s the perfect thing to hold us over as we eagerly await the inaugural journey of the Disney Treasure and the grand opening of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point . If you’ve been dreaming about going on a Disney Cruise this summer, now’s your chance! We have all the need-to-know info on a brand-new sweepstakes that you don’t want to miss.

Disney is gearing up to make your vacation wishes come true with a 7-night cruise trip to Alaska. The winner, and 3 guests of their choice, will be embarking from Vancouver and setting sail aboard the Disney Wonder .

This grand prize encompasses all the luxuries offered by Disney Cruise Line such as world-class entertainment, unforgettable (and delicious) dining experiences, and the chance to create those special family memories on board the most magical ship on the seas. The best part? It’s all FREE!

The trip includes roundtrip airfare to Vancouver, pre-paid onboard gratuities, and accommodations in one stateroom designed for 4 people.  All meals are also included, except for adult specialty dining.

To enter the sweepstakes you must be 18 years or older at the time of entry and a legal resident of the U.S. The limit is 1 entry per person per day and the last day to enter is 4/24/24 at 11:59 PM ET. Interested? Check out the official Disney Cruise Line website to apply and check out the official rules and offerings. Also, you can enter daily until it’s over!

Fun in the sun on board the Disney Magic? Sounds like a wish come true to us.

We’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, and offerings tailored to fit your dream vacation plans, so be sure to stay tuned in with us here to stay in the loop.

The Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Line — click here!

Join the allears.net newsletter  to stay on top of all the breaking disney news you'll also get access to allears tips, reviews, trivia, and more click here to subscribe.

Do you have a dream Disney Cruise Vacation? We’d love to read all about it in the comments!

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8 Replies to “Disney Adults! You’ll Regret Not Taking 10 Seconds to Enter This Sweepstakes”

How exciting!!! hope I win the sweepstakes 🤞

I’m terrified of cruises but would make the exception for Disney!!! This seems like an amazing opportunity to have a chance to enjoy the seas! 😍

A whole new world is my favorite Disney song! I’d say this is my dream cruise, hope I win🫣

free cruise? count me in!!

Sounds fun. Would love to board the Disney Wonder. I’d say my dream cruise would be to Europe.

I love this article, definitely going to enter! I would absolutely love a getaway to Alaska with the family. Especially in a disney cruise. There is nothing like it.

I didn’t know you could enter more than once !! Fingers crossed, this seems exciting!

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I only book a Disney cruise if it's going to the company's private island, Castaway Cay

• I've taken eight Disney cruises, and I always book a sailing that stops at  Castaway Cay .
• Castaway Cay is the company's private island and I love its adults-only beach area.
• You can buy exclusive merch on the island and see Disney characters in special themed costumes.

Cruise bookings are predicted to reach record highs this year, but not all itineraries are created equally — especially if you're looking to sail with Disney Cruise Line.

Over the past decade, I've taken eight Disney cruises with my family and friends. When I book, I always make sure Disney's private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, is on the port of call.

Here's why you might want to do the same.

I love that the ship docks right at the island, so there are no tender ships involved

One of the biggest perks of Castaway Cay is that the ship docks right at the island.

Some other cruise line's private islands, like Norwegian's Great Stirrup Cay, don't have a dock, so cruisers must take tender ships (small boats) from the cruise ship to the island.

I hate taking tender ships, which can feel like a bit of a time sink, so this is a big bonus to me.

Getting around the island is easy with the complimentary tram

Castaway Cay is about 1,000 acres — though not all of it's developed — so it can take a while to talk to and from the ship to different spots on the island.

Fortunately, the island has a complimentary tram that I always use to get around the island.

The tram takes cruisers from a station near the ship to two other tram stops for the family beaches, and one tram stop at the adults-only beach .

This makes getting around the island with all of my beach gear easy.

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Speaking of gear, at Castaway Cay, cruisegoers can borrow free towels as soon as they get off of the ship. There are plenty of towel-return stations around the island, so I also never have to carry wet, sandy towels back on the ship.

I always stop to see the Disney characters in their cute beachwear

I enjoy seeing the Disney characters on the ship, but love seeing Mickey and his pals even more at Castaway Cay.

Characters usually meet in the morning from around 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., but exact times can always be found on the Disney Cruise Line app.

The best part about seeing the characters is that the lines to take pictures with them are never long. On a recent sailing, I saw Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, and Pluto all in 30 minutes. That would never happen in a Disney park.

And if you're a fellow character hunter like me, Mickey and the gang all have Castaway Cay exclusive outfits, which are adorable and make for great family photos.

I always take advantage of every chance to hang out at the adults-only beach

One thing I love about Disney Cruise Line and Castaway Cay is that there are plenty of adults-only spaces where kids are strictly not allowed. On the island, that spot is Serenity Bay Beach.

This peaceful chair-lined beach is a quiet spot away from the family beach, where I can sit back and enjoy the view or take a chair down to the water and let the waves crash over me.

Plus, just off Serenity Bay Beach is a fun beachside bar serving up drinks and snacks.

There's also the adults-only lunch spot where I always enjoy a beachside barbecue. My favorite things on the lunch menu are the ribs and macaroni salad .

Before returning to the ship, I send a postcard from the island and check out the special merchandise

I always make a point to stop in at the various shops near the family beach to see the Castaway Cay merchandise. On a recent trip, the shops had everything from spirit jerseys and T-shirts to Christmas ornaments and swimsuits.

And, before I head back to the ship, I stop at the Castaway Cay post office to send postcards back home.

The postcards I use can be found in the desk drawer of Disney Cruise Line staterooms, and are free to take. If you don't want to send the cute postcards off, you can also keep them as souvenirs.

Watch: Cruise ship captain breaks down 8 cruise ship disasters in movies and TV

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How can we help you.

Onboard Services – Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any expected amount for gratuities, and what’s the best way to pay them?

It is customary to give gratuities in recognition of exceptional service, which you’ll receive in abundance aboard the ship. We recommend a gratuity amount of $14.50 USD per night, per stateroom Guest, including infants and children. Pre-Paid Gratuities are distributed to the Crew Members who take care of you in the following roles:

• Dining room server
• Dining room assistant server
• Dining room head server
• Stateroom host

Guests staying in Concierge Staterooms and Suites are recommended a gratuity amount of $15.50 USD per night, per stateroom Guest. This includes gratuity for the Stateroom assistant host, who services the Concierge accommodations, in addition to the positions listed above.

Easily pre-pay gratuities online to create a carefree, all-inclusive experience by visiting My Reservations in your Disney account and following the prompts for Pre-Paid Gratuities. If you booked your Disney cruise with a travel agent, please contact them to apply this payment for you.

If you did not get a chance to pre-pay before boarding the ship, we will automatically charge your onboard account the suggested gratuity amount per Guest per night. Once on board the ship, if you wish to adjust the amount of your pre-paid gratuities, please visit Guest Services for assistance.

Keep in mind that pre-paid gratuities can only be adjusted among the Crew Members who take care of you in the following roles: Dining Room Server, Dining Room Assistant Server, Dining Room Head Server and Stateroom Host. Requests to refund pre-paid gratuities may only be processed in full back to the original form of payment, which may include forms of payment made by a travel agent.

Not Included Pre-Paid Gratuities do not include the following gratuities, which are either included in the charge or based on your discretion:

• Extras added to rotational dining meals such as alcoholic beverages
• Adult dining locations such as Remy, Palo, Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, which are not part of rotational dining
• Food or drink in shops and outdoor or poolside eateries
• Room service
• Port Adventures
• Senses Spa & Salon
• Concierge Lounge Team—Guests staying in Concierge accommodations are recommended a gratuity amount of $8.00 per night, per stateroom Guest
• Any other additional services

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