Are gratuities included with Royal Caribbean?

Ugh, Royal Caribbean gratuities – it's such a headache, isn't it? I remember booking my last cruise, I swear I spent ages trying to figure this stuff out! So, are gratuities included? Well, it depends, which is totally annoying.

If you're one of those super-organized people who buys your dining packages before you even step foot on the ship – you know, through that Cruise Planner thing – then yes! Gratuities are included. I did that once, felt so smart. Like I'd outsmarted the system! It was lovely, just one less thing to worry about.

But then, there's the other scenario. You know, the spontaneous, "let's just see what happens" type of traveler? Like me, most of the time. If you buy your dining packages onboard the ship, be prepared. They add an 18% gratuity at checkout. Eighteen percent! That stings a bit, especially if you're already splashing out on fancy meals. I learned that the hard way, let me tell you. It felt like a sneaky extra cost I totally forgot about.

And then, there's the standard service charges. Those are always separate. Always! No matter how you buy your stuff, you're gonna be paying those. Think of them as a general tip for your cabin steward, waitstaff...all those folks keeping the ship running smoothly. I usually budget extra for those, because, you know, those folks deserve a good tip. They're working hard! It's hard work, remember those times you had to carry heavy bags? I bet they carry hundreds everyday!

So yeah, Royal Caribbean gratuities. A total minefield. Just be prepared, do your research, and maybe pack a little extra cash, just in case. You don't want to be caught off guard like I was!