Do Australians pay gratuities on Royal Caribbean?

Tipping on Royal Caribbean Cruises from Australia: What You Need to Know

Royal Caribbean cruises departing from Australia handle gratuities differently than cruises originating in North America. Understanding this difference can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage.

Unlike cruises from the US and Canada, where gratuities are typically added daily to your onboard account, Royal Caribbean cruises departing from Australia generally include a service charge in the upfront cruise fare. This means the standard gratuity for your cabin steward and dining room staff is already covered. You’re essentially pre-paying for this essential service.

This bundled approach offers several advantages. First, it simplifies the billing process, eliminating the daily surprises of added gratuity charges. Secondly, it guarantees that essential staff receive fair compensation. Finally, it allows for greater transparency in the overall cost of your cruise.

However, this doesn’t mean tipping is discouraged. If you receive exceptional service from your cabin steward, waiter, bartender, or other crew members, providing an additional tip is absolutely welcome and appreciated. This extra gesture allows you to personally acknowledge outstanding service that went above and beyond the expected level of care. Think of it as a bonus for truly exceptional work.

While the pre-paid service charge covers basic service, discretionary tips are entirely at your discretion. There’s no obligation to tip beyond the included charge, but it’s a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for particularly helpful or friendly staff. Consider the quality of service and your personal budget when deciding whether to offer additional gratuities.

In short: Australians embarking on Royal Caribbean cruises from Australia don’t need to worry about daily gratuity charges appearing on their onboard account. The basics are covered. However, exceptional service deserves recognition, and a small additional tip remains a perfectly acceptable and appreciated gesture.

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