How much do you tip a cabin steward on a cruise ship?

Navigating the sometimes murky waters of cruise ship gratuity can feel like a challenge. You want to show appreciation for good service, but how much is enough, and who should you tip? When it comes to your cabin steward, the unsung hero who keeps your floating home tidy and comfortable, there's a generally accepted standard.

A customary tip for your cabin steward falls within the range of $5.50 to $6.50 per person, per day. This means if two people are sharing a cabin, you should budget between $11 and $13 per day in total. This gratuity acknowledges the consistent effort required to maintain your room, from daily cleaning and towel replenishment to turndown service and attending to any special requests. Consider this a baseline; exceptional service certainly warrants a higher tip.

This same gratuity guideline – $5.50 to $6.50 per person, per day – also applies to your dining room server, who ensures your meals are enjoyable and efficiently served. For the busser, who clears tables and assists your server, a good rule of thumb is half the server's tip, around $2.75 to $3.25 per person, per day.

While not obligatory, tipping the maitre d' or dining room captain is a thoughtful gesture if they've provided exceptional service, accommodated a special seating request, or gone above and beyond to enhance your dining experience. A tip of $5 to $10 for the duration of the cruise is appropriate for these instances.

It's important to remember that most cruise lines automatically add a daily gratuity charge to your onboard account. This charge often covers the cabin steward, dining room server, and busser. Check your cruise line's policy beforehand. If you're happy with the service, this automatic gratuity is often sufficient. However, cash tips directly to individuals are always appreciated, especially if you want to recognize outstanding service beyond the standard gratuity. This allows for a more personal acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication to making your cruise a memorable one.