Decoding Norwegian Cruise Line's Gratuities and Service Charges

Table Of Content

• Is Norwegian Cruise Line now charging for room service?
• Worth It? Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide
• Do you have to pay gratuities on cruise?
• Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know
• The Free at Sea Offer Runs Consistently
• Major Differences Between Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
• Exclusions and Separate Charges for Certain Staff Members
• You Don’t Have to Select a Perk If You Don’t Want It

A couple traveling together will see about $30-$40 per day in gratuities, or about $200+ over the course of a week-long cruise. If you’re a first-time cruiser, then there’s little doubt that you have questions about gratuities and tipping on your cruise. In September, Norwegian Cruise Line announced a price hike for its beverage packages. Effective January 1, 2023, prices for both the Premium Plus Beverage Package and the Unlimited Open Bar Beverage Package will be raised by $10. Any amount is fine and will be appreciated by the hard-working crew.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line now charging for room service?

This fee will be added to your stateroom account once onboard the ship. As stated above, these service charges apply to all guests regardless of stateroom category. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line have adapted their main dining room policies, adding surcharges on dishes, mostly depending on how many entrees guests order per meal. While inflation is hitting everyone hard, it is remarkable that cruise lines are making these changes at nearly the same time, making a cruise a costly vacation option for many.

Worth It? Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide

NCL's Free at Sea promotion: What to know before you book - The Points Guy

NCL's Free at Sea promotion: What to know before you book.

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Still, some people do leave a little extra for crew members who go above and beyond. Others tip their room service or waitstaff at their favorite bar, either early in the cruise in the hope of getting better service or at the end to thank them for enhancing the vacation experience. How much to tip extra on a cruise is entirely up to you because it is in no way required. Still, some critics see the charges as a sneaky way for cruise lines to make their fares appear lower than they really are.

Do you have to pay gratuities on cruise?

Just my preference; others have equally valid reasons not to prepay, the biggest being if you had refundable OBC which can be used toward onboard DSC. 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. Other luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent include all gratuities except on spa services.

Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know

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Posted: Mon, 02 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

I want to accurately depict the ships in their true historical context, so I immerse myself in the research. My seafaring background played a significant role in shaping my skills and knowledge as an artist. AIDA Cruises has resumed operations in the Canary Islands, Germany, and Greece, offering passengers the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable voyages to stunning destinations.

The Free at Sea Offer Runs Consistently

One of the perks that can be popular for people living a distance from the port is free airfare. Often, it is free for the second guest on the cruise, although the offer specifics can vary. So with the deal you can pay one price and then get drinks for the duration of your trip, wi-fi, shore excursions, and more. The main difference between the Hawaii Beverage Package and NCL's normal beverage package is that the Hawaii package includes specialty coffee in the main dining rooms while the normal one does not. If there are five to eight passengers on a reservation, those additional guests are required to pay the prevailing fares. This perk is not available on every sailing, so check before you book if you wish to take advantage of this freebie.

When people look at my paintings, I want them to feel like they are experiencing the glory days of cruise travel. There have been some changes to cruise line itineraries and updates on destinations. For example, Carnival Cruise Line will be resuming operations on select ships in July, including sailing from Galveston and Alaska. Princess Cruises and Costa Cruises have also announced their resumptions. District Judge has had a significant impact on the resumptions and updates of cruise lines. It has brought legal implications and a renewed hope for the cruise industry.

Exclusions and Separate Charges for Certain Staff Members

Guests are also charged up to $12 per person, per day for a fuel charge. 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. You can get the charge out of the way early, or hold onto your money until you actually sail. Cruise ship accidents, injuries, crimes, disappearances, fires, and collisions on the high seas involve issues of maritime law. Jim Walker graduated from law school in 1983 and has been handling maritime law cases for the past thirty-five years.

These recommended amounts can be adjusted at your discretion based on the level of service you receive. It’s worth noting that the suggested gratuity is automatically added to your onboard account, but if you wish to provide additional cash tips, they are welcome. Remember, tipping is a way to express appreciation for the hard work and dedication of your cabin steward, who plays a crucial role in ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout your cruise. For more information on Norwegian Cruise Line’s tipping policy, you can refer to their official website. When it comes to Norwegian Cruise’s gratuity policy, many passengers wonder if they should still tip even if a gratuity has been added.

In summary, understanding Norwegian Cruise’s gratuity policy is essential for anyone planning a cruise with this popular cruise line. Keep in mind that casino dealers, kids camp workers, and spa workers are not included in the auto-gratuities, so it’s recommended to tip them separately if you feel inclined. Additionally, when using services like the spa, bars, and specialty restaurants, separate gratuity charges apply. When it comes to paying gratuities on a cruise, it’s important to understand the potential consequences if you choose not to pay. While cruise ships typically have an automatic gratuity charge that’s added to your bill, you do have the right to refuse this charge and compensate the cruise staff on your own terms. However, it’s essential that you notify the front desk of your desire not to pay the automatic gratuity.

From world-class dining options to thrilling onboard activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime as Carnival Cruise Line resumes its operations and welcomes you aboard their incredible ships. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sail with Carnival Vista and Carnival Breeze as they embark on their highly anticipated resumptions.

If the first and/or second guest in a cabin is under 21, they will receive Norwegian Cruise Line's Unlimited Soda Package (valued at $9.95 per person, per day) as a substitution. If additional guests and beyond are under 21, they will not receive a substitution for this perk. If you're 21 or older but do not drink, you cannot opt for the soda package instead. The advantage is that at the end of the cruise you have a very small or nothing on onboard account to pay. Whatever additional food/drinks you treat yourself to, can be taken care by OBC.

Norwegian Cruise Line announces gratuity increase

Table Of Content

• Free 3rd and 4th passengers in a cabin
• Good Deal? Everything to Know About Norwegian’s “Free At Sea” Sale
• How Are Cruise Line Gratuities Paid?
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Check Prices on Airfare Offers
• Significant Milestone for the Ship

The U.S. District Judge rejected the CDC restrictions for cruise lines. Now, we can focus on getting back to sailing safely and responsibly. With these new voyages, you can embark on unforgettable adventures and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, get ready to set sail and explore the world in style and comfort. Princess Cruises is also gearing up to resume sailing, with plans to offer cruises to Alaska and the UK.

Free 3rd and 4th passengers in a cabin

Norwegian Cruise Line Raises Onboard Gratuities - Cruise Critic

Norwegian Cruise Line Raises Onboard Gratuities.

Posted: Mon, 07 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Yes, passengers can prepay gratuities for exceptional service on Norwegian Cruise Line. I need to budget for the cost of gratuities and service charges on my Norwegian Cruise Line trip. This means that you pay the full amount for the tips before your cruise starts, and it’s added to your overall cruise cost.

Good Deal? Everything to Know About Norwegian’s “Free At Sea” Sale

Book your voyage today and get ready for an extraordinary journey at sea. During the Norwegian Prima’s maiden voyage, Norwegian Cruise Line surprised guests with exciting additional experiences. As part of their partnership with Elvis Duran, the Godfather of the ship, they created memorable moments that exceeded guests’ expectations. From impromptu performances by world-class musicians to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the ship, Norwegian Cruise Line went above and beyond to create unforgettable moments for its guests. Elvis Duran’s presence on the Norwegian Bliss ensures an unforgettable experience for guests while highlighting the appreciation for educators by Norwegian Cruise Line. Departing from Galveston, Texas, the Norwegian Prima set sail on its maiden voyage, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement among the guests.

How Are Cruise Line Gratuities Paid?

In this line of thinking, lines with these charges are essentially breaking out a good chunk of onboard labor costs as a separate line item on your bill. At some big lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, it's not uncommon for a family of four staying in a single cabin to see more than $70 a day in service fees added to their bills. At what point in the booking process can the prepaid charges be added? Carnival Cruise Line’s upcoming sailings promise to be filled with excitement and unforgettable experiences.

Cruise lines are implementing various safety measures and protocols to ensure the health and safety of passengers and crew members. These measures include enhanced cleaning procedures, mandatory testing, social distancing, and the use of face masks. I am eager to learn more about the current operations of cruise lines in the United States. With the recent developments in vaccine requirements and new health and safety protocols, it’s an exciting time for the industry. Additionally, AIDA Cruises’ commitment to providing exceptional service and entertainment remains unchanged.

Including his 2015 income of $31,900, 000, he collected over $108,000,000 for four years, including $22,590,000 in 2018, $17,808,000 in 2019,and $36,400,000 in 2020. The fee hike at Norwegian comes amid a surge in price hikes for all sorts of onboard items at the line. The price hike for gratuities by Norwegian Cruise Line is just one in a series of price increases that we’ve seen across the industry in the last couple of months. Lines that now cover gratuities in their fares include Azamara, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Silversea Cruises and Virgin Voyages.

How Were the 100 Winning Teachers Selected for the Free Cruise on the Norwegian Prima?

Club Balcony suite guests and all other guests will now be charged $20 per day per person. A $2 increase from the previous gratuity charge of $18 per day for Club Balcony suite guests and a $4 increase for guests staying in all other cabin categories. Guests with reservations made on or before March 31, 2022, will have the option of pre-paying their service charges at the current suggested rate prior to their sail date. Norwegian Cruise Line guests with existing cruise reservations who have already pre-paid their service charges at the current rate are not affected.

Significant Milestone for the Ship

This amount can be adjusted at the passenger’s discretion, depending on the level of service received. It is worth noting that NCL automatically adds a 20% gratuity to all beverage purchases, specialty dining, and spa services. This takes the guesswork out of tipping for these services, as it is already included in the final bill. NCL offers passengers the option to prepay service charges up to 24 hours in advance of sailing.

What else must I know about the NCL's Free at Sea promotion?

But if you aren’t a big drinker or plan to drive to the port instead of fly, or don’t care about shore excursions, it could be that buying the cheaper cabin is worth it for you. After all, you’ll have to pay gratuities on the drink package, still have to pay for some flights, and pay gratuities on specialty restaurant dining. However, these charges can be modified or removed by guests while on the ship in the event that they did not receive satisfactory service. In addition, guests will pay an 18% gratuity on all beverages, mini bar items, and spa & salon purchases.

The answer is yes, additional tipping is not required but is appreciated for exceptional service. Norwegian Cruise Line includes a mandatory daily service charge that covers gratuities for the crew members who work behind the scenes to ensure a memorable experience. However, if you feel that a particular crew member has gone above and beyond, it is common practice to acknowledge their exceptional service with an additional tip. It’s important to keep in mind that tipping is a personal choice, and if you choose to do so, it should be based on your satisfaction and discretion. For more information on Norwegian Cruise’s gratuity policy, please visit the official Norwegian Cruise Line website.

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The brand also recently announced it would increase the cost of its Unlimited Open Bar Beverage Package on Jan. 1 by about 10%, to $109. The cost of a higher-end drinks package will soon be $138, up from $128. Those staying in The Haven and Suites suggested onboard gratuities will be $20 per person, per day -- up $1.50 from the previous suggested daily tip amount of $18.50. For those staying in Club Balcony Suites, the suggest gratuity remains unchanged at $18. The big advantage to paying cruise tips in advance is that you lock in the current rate.

Beyond the standard service charges put forth by the cruise line, we always tip above and beyond for excellent service. 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. An 18% Bar Service Charge is automatically added to bar charges and Dining Room wine purchases. 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.

With the price of alcohol on a cruise being high (think $10-14 for a cocktail or about $6-8 for a beer), having free bar privileges can be a huge money saver. On a 7-day trip, that’s hundreds of dollars you’re saving by having it included. First things first, while you can get all the perks included with your cruise, the number of freebies you can select may depend on the type of cabin that you purchase. Often no matter which cabin type you book, all the perks are included. Other times, it may be that the higher grade of cabin you choose, the more picks you receive. That’s why this offer aims to provide many of the extras you’d normally buy on a trip, all included in your cruise fare at a price that’s normally less than if you booked them all separately.