Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Raise Gratuity Costs
Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have increased the costs of their daily gratuities.
As of Jan. 2, the new recommended gratuities guideline at Royal Caribbean is US$14.50 per day, per guest in standard accommodations, and US$17.50 per day, per guest in suites. Royal Caribbean automatically registers the daily gratuities in guest folios; however, guests are free to change the amount at their discretion with the ship’s Guest Services staff.
Guests who booked their cruise prior to Jan. 2 can prepay their gratuities based on the old guideline of US$13.50 per day, per guest in standard accommodations, and US$16.50 per day, per suite guest.
According to officials, the adjustment puts the cruise line in line with its competitors in the industry.
On Celebrity ships, guests will now pay US$14.50 daily per person in standard accommodations, US$15 for Concierge Class and Aqua Class rooms, and US$18 for suites. Guests with pre-existing bookings confirmed prior to Jan. 2 will have until the time of sailing to pay their gratuities at the old rate.
Daily gratuities are shared among dining and culinary services staff, stateroom attendants and other housekeeping services personnel, as well as staff from other departments who work behind the scenes to enhance the cruise experience.
