13 Big Tipping Mistakes NOT to Make on a Cruise

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 มิ.ย. 2024
  • Are you going on a cruise & wondering about cruise ship gratuities? Knowing who to tip (and who not to tip) on the cruise ship & in ports can be confusing. Unfortunately, this can lead to some big tipping mistakes on a cruise.
    If you're a first time cruiser, this cruise information will be super helpful. Even experienced cruisers just we don't talk enough about cruise tipping norms & etiquette. In this video I share helpful cruise tips & advice that you can use as you're preparing for a cruise vacation.
    Whether your cruise is on Carnival cruise lines, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Holland America, MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages (or any cruise ship), this video about cruise gratuities, tipping crew members, service fees, & crew incentives is a must-watch.
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    Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
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  • @LifeWellCruised
    @LifeWellCruised  ปีที่แล้ว +35

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  • @squeestar
    @squeestar ปีที่แล้ว +796

    My very first cruise with my husband, our steward discovered I brought along a stuffed monkey and always left it on the bed. So, throughout the cruise we would come back to our cabin and find my stuffed toy in various "scenes" such as watching tv, or drawing a banana on a pad of paper. This escalated when he created a mouse made out of a washcloth at which point, we would find scenes like our pillow chocolates with a lil piece cut out and the mouse and monkey would be on the bed with the remote sharing the chocolate. We found the experience so fun we left that guy an extra tip along with a note thanking him for "monkeying around with us". 🙂

    • @nancyruckman5875
      @nancyruckman5875 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      This is beyond adorable! Thanks for sharing that!!

    • @danasandoval624
      @danasandoval624 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Omg that is wonderful. What line and ship were you on?

    • @squeestar
      @squeestar ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@danasandoval624 Golden Princess

    • @danasandoval624
      @danasandoval624 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@squeestar thank you for the info

    • @dobees8183
      @dobees8183 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      You're a grown woman??

  • @davidrayner9832
    @davidrayner9832 ปีที่แล้ว +1213

    Australian here. One thing we hate about cruising (and visiting the US) is tipping. We begrudgingly accept the practice and we do it but why can't all businesses, no matter what or where they are, simply pay their workers a decent living wage that doesn't need to be suplimented by the customer?

    • @carmenenoll3964
      @carmenenoll3964 ปีที่แล้ว +49

      Some of us go above and beyond and deserve more. You should keep that in mind. JS!

    • @davidrayner9832
      @davidrayner9832 ปีที่แล้ว +267

      @@carmenenoll3964 No, your employer should keep that in mind.

    • @carmenenoll3964
      @carmenenoll3964 ปีที่แล้ว +24

      Nope I like it that way. I make way more money. We all have opinions though.

    • @davidrayner9832
      @davidrayner9832 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      @@carmenenoll3964 More money than they're paying you now, not more money than they should be paying you. BTW, have you ever travelled on a train?

    • @carmenenoll3964
      @carmenenoll3964 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @davidrayner9832 Yes

  • @jwinns9859
    @jwinns9859 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    Don't forget to tip the common area workers. Those who clean the stair case, elevators, public bathrooms, those that clean the pool deck at 2am and walk around cleaning up. I consider them the silent heros

  • @liseoppenheimer7255
    @liseoppenheimer7255 ปีที่แล้ว +109

    I hate this expectation of tipping every minute of the day. When I book m6 cruise, tell me the actual cost, then leave me alone. This nickel and diming is ridiculous

  • @danm6695
    @danm6695 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +47

    When tipping becomes confusing, much like this, I just opt out. It should be clear for the consumer to decide if they received great service and provide the tip.

  • @raynermatthews4212
    @raynermatthews4212 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    Merriam-Webster definition for gratuity is "something given voluntarily or beyond obligation", Cruise ship nor any other company should make tipping part of your bill. I would like the cruise lines and all other companies set their prices so they can pay their employees what they deserve and we can tip for excellent work. It appears these companies are trying to show a lower price item, then add on after and during the cruise. Some people are saving years to take this cruse and not able to pay the extra money, we need to let those people know it's OK to just say THANKS!

    • @travelnomad2128
      @travelnomad2128 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I don't let myself be guilted or pressured to tip. I tip what I can afford and tip only to room steward & mdr waiters. No more. The cruise fare alone is expensive enough and I'm not rich to be giving away money to everyone!

  • @ORCLEAM
    @ORCLEAM 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +171

    One thing we learned is that tipping doesn't stop when you cross the brow on departure. The survey you get from the line is also a form of tipping. Remember the names of the staff that really impressed you and why they impressed you. The survey is going to ask you who went out of their way to make you cruise great. The mentions earn the crewmembers things like extra phone time with their families, promotion points and other perks.

    • @matthewwilliams9200
      @matthewwilliams9200 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Because either way you'll be paying for it. This way you are given the option to give more directly for the persons work that is serving you.

    • @westzed23
      @westzed23 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      One tip I heard was to take photos of your servers and staff with ID showing, then you have that for your survey. I'm doing that on my next cruise.

    • @venitapolonio5955
      @venitapolonio5955 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I definitely made sure I completed the survey. For my 2nd cruise I will get names of those with excellent and poor customer service as well.

    • @MoDavI-sl7iy
      @MoDavI-sl7iy หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      On my 🛳, our person was Jerry. He went above & beyond the call of duty. He was GREAT‼️

    • @ronv6637
      @ronv6637 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It is not just the cruise industry but any corporate job,as I have complimented individuals to their supervisor and been told it all goes through HR (can't imagine how bad it must be to have those insane,screaming haradans doing anything but payroll and benefits)

  • @lesmotley6839
    @lesmotley6839 ปีที่แล้ว +97

    Ive found in life that countries like japan Australia and those in the EU where tipping is not common people tend to offer better service than the US where tipping is part of the culture. Tipping in japan is particularly frowned upon, the Japanese give their best service and honesty because this is expected in their culture.

    • @brendaworthington5423
      @brendaworthington5423 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      I agree with you. Everyone should do the job they are paid for to the best of their ability, and never expect a tip. I did my job for almost 40 years and was actually not allowed to accept tips or monetary gratuities at all! It should NEVER be up to the customer to supplement salary! Fair pay for fair work!

    • @AndreasS.-mh8ti
      @AndreasS.-mh8ti 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Well said! I disagree with “not being allowed to tip.” I’ve worked for places like that and followed their rules. However, if someone wants to tip you, you earned it and should be allowed to keep it.
      At one place the owner kept my tips. When customers noticed, they said to him, “The tips is for her. She earned it. Let her keep it!”

    • @sak_5
      @sak_5 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I give extra tip to my cruise attendants and servers, specially since most of them are from nationalities where tips are greatly appreciated. The tip I hate the most giving is to the porters at U.S. ports, those guys are never satisfied with a $1, $2 or even $5 per bag and they always made “comments to themselves like whinning” as we leave… For my next cruises, I guess I won’t tip at all to these people.

    • @VNeto94
      @VNeto94 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      ​​@@sak_5yes, and their jobs could be easily replaced by robots. Can't wait for it.

  • @raymondwong7674
    @raymondwong7674 ปีที่แล้ว +55

    Wow , I don't realize people are so generous when cruising, money don't come easy for me, not many people tip like that in real life.

    • @travelnomad2128
      @travelnomad2128 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Don't stressed! Tip what you can afford. It's not mandatory!

  • @pm1104
    @pm1104 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    I hate this tipping nonsense……..it shuld be included in people’s wages ! 😊

  • @nancysmith2874
    @nancysmith2874 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    Tipping is out of hand

  • @perthian
    @perthian ปีที่แล้ว +85

    The American tipping culture is so wrong. Let the company pay a decent wage to its employees.

    • @andyoden3044
      @andyoden3044 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I agree the companies should pay a fair wage, but amost all cruise lines are NOT US OWNED or operated. Blame the right folks, plz.

  • @davidbonnichsen2901
    @davidbonnichsen2901 ปีที่แล้ว +51

    I don’t tip anywhere any longer. So many places have raised prices to help subsidize staff, etc. I feel I am already paying an extra 20% for everything. May sound like I am a terrible person, but paying 20%+ and then an extra tip is just getting out of control.

    • @richardsonkevin20
      @richardsonkevin20 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      I agree 100%. If my employer doesn’t give me a cost of living raise, then I can’t/ won’t subsidize there income.

    • @annar6081
      @annar6081 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

      Finally a smart comment.
      The reason I am going to cruise is not to do a social justice to workers who are not paid by their employer. I go to cruise to enjoy a trip, meet new people and see new places. Employee- employer relationship is non of my concern.

    • @cheryllassonde8080
      @cheryllassonde8080 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      I agree with you....and tipping is a choice, no one should be shamed for not tipping.

    • @janetholmes733
      @janetholmes733 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      I agree. I have since stopped
      The gratuities have been paid.

    • @VNeto94
      @VNeto94 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Tipping should be a special prize for a special service. I went on a cruise and only tipped the cleaning lady and the waiters of the main dining room who served us during the entire trip. If, for example, I had stayed drinking at the same bar with the same couple of bartenders I'd also have tipped them.

  • @susantownsend8397
    @susantownsend8397 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    On land or shipboard I frequently tip anyone I see cleaning a restroom. Imagine a cruise, restaurant, or entertainment experience without them! I’m not going to miss those few dollars.

  • @garyroberts3859
    @garyroberts3859 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +30

    You’ve managed to put me off cruising for life

    • @susieminnick6801
      @susieminnick6801 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Don't let this woman steer you away.she is so wrong about so many things!!

    • @lsheree1
      @lsheree1 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      🤣🤣🤣

  • @travelwithchopsticks8982
    @travelwithchopsticks8982 ปีที่แล้ว +148

    The worst is when you order a drink, they automatically add in a tip and then they want you to sign the charge slip with another empty line under tips. I hate this moment so I always add in another dollar or two but I always feel ripped off as I'm double tipping. I wish they would stop doing that.

    • @DoItRight911
      @DoItRight911 ปีที่แล้ว +54

      Better decision is to stop feeling guilty and don’t add more and it will stop. You are in charge of you.

    • @lw3158
      @lw3158 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      I hear you but if people would stop doing this if they have the pre-paid, the cruise line may get the hint.

    • @robertcold4669
      @robertcold4669 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      I don’t feel the least bit guilty about not tipping in addition to the gratuities that are already in the drink package. Having said that, certain bartenders that you get to know, I tip the heck out of.

    • @joypaul1191
      @joypaul1191 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Dont feel guilty..just don't do it! You're in charge of it not them!

    • @ajs11201
      @ajs11201 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@robertcold4669 I totally agree. I never feel obligated, but when I do receive truly excellent service, I happily add another dollar or two (or more! lol).

  • @MoDavI-sl7iy
    @MoDavI-sl7iy 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

    I love your videos. You explain everything with such clarity & class.
    But I must say, watching all of these videos about do's & dont's on a cruise, what to pack & not pack, etc. It all makes me wish I would've booked an all-inclusive vacation out of the country somewhere. This appears to be a bit much, & so stressful.

  • @robertmitchell8223
    @robertmitchell8223 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    Tips are my choice and I never leave it up to the cruise line to determine who gets my money.......period.

    • @glockman9c
      @glockman9c 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Poor dishwashers...

    • @carly1478
      @carly1478 4 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Are tips not mandatory to pay on a cruise?

  • @LA53844
    @LA53844 9 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    This is exactly what I did on one NCL cruise. My server was absolutely ridiculous, I have my mom with me, on the whilechare...
    I went to a customer service desk, and asked them to remove 50% of my gratuity, and took that money and gave 2 girls who really helped me on that cruise.

  • @MsBB998
    @MsBB998 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +21

    I read one post where the staff member said that the prepaid gratuities were NOT shared amongst staff but rather directly the cruise line itself. I would rather pay gratuity directly to the people providing service to be and extra to those who provide exceptional services.

    • @ReeceS6419
      @ReeceS6419 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      We just booked a cruise and had to pay the gratuities up front. It is so disappointing to hear that only the cruise line benefits from this! 😞

    • @joaofreitas3192
      @joaofreitas3192 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I'm reading and learning a lot here my last 3 cruises I went to the desk and asked for removing the gratuities that I was going to pay cash on the end and I always do I don't have the corage to leave the cruise and not leave gratuities but I just tip the person doing my room and the 2 persons serving at the table and this way they get more money from us ,but I just learned here in coments that the crew will know in the beginning that we remove the gratuities so I will give my gratuities for them on the beginning so they will know I did not left and did not give anything to them.

    • @darleencherry4374
      @darleencherry4374 10 วันที่ผ่านมา

      That is completely false. At least as far as Carnival is concerned. Friends that are still working for Carnival and some having 30+ years all tell me that they do get their share of the prepaid grants.

  • @kathleencraig3804
    @kathleencraig3804 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    as a musician on few cruise lines I never got tipped, wished I did. employees who clean your cabins work for $400 month sometimes and tips are greatly appreciated.

  • @daffyduck8244
    @daffyduck8244 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    Tipping is shameless. It should be up to the customer what they feel is appropriate. Recently took a cruise and the cruise line made me get a doctors note explaining that my wife didn't drink otherwise they make it mandatory if someone buys a drink package in the room everyone else has to. Totally shameless from the cruiseline

    • @trishconlon9258
      @trishconlon9258 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      It is actually quite understandable. I’m sure enough couples have purchased one drink package and then both enjoy the unlimited drinks. Similar to if you go into an all-buffet restaurant-everyone who enters pays and it is not appropriate to take doggy bags to share with others.

    • @janiec8753
      @janiec8753 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Carnival limits you to 15 drinks a day.

    • @ck121075
      @ck121075 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@janiec8753If you need more than 15 drinks per day you might be an alcoholic.

    • @ck121075
      @ck121075 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yeah. Of course. People will order a drink and give it to their spouse so they only have to purchase 1 package. It’s not the cruise lines fault, it’s the greedy people that ruined it.

  • @donnaturner3377
    @donnaturner3377 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I am ok with auto gratuities, but I really do think cruise companies should share how these tips are distributed. Since we are tippers I feel it is our business.

  • @kashanamccauley6850
    @kashanamccauley6850 22 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thank you for the videos ❤

  • @angelsmilkyway4352
    @angelsmilkyway4352 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you. This was informative and helpful.

  • @leslieoconnell2051
    @leslieoconnell2051 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    We always tip or room stewards and wait staff but we also enjoy carrying $5 bills to give to random workers who ordinarily don’t get tips. Their appreciation is amazing.

    • @grajur3710
      @grajur3710 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I tip lady who clean smoking area. She was very grateful; smile every time we were there. I also wrote a note about her in customer service so she got extra 1 hour off,

  • @kathleenschmidt1489
    @kathleenschmidt1489 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Really needed this video.

  • @pooliejugamohan5657
    @pooliejugamohan5657 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks for advising ❤

  • @marybethreynolds2900
    @marybethreynolds2900 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you for doing this helpful video 😊

  • @louiem5397
    @louiem5397 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I have a clear view about tipping. In Europe as a whole tipping is almost nil…The only country that tips a lot is the USA and I do not include the tip in my embarkation package…I tip the people I consider close to me…the room attendant and helper and the dinner steward and helper… The rest got the tips included in places as bars, spa, manicure, massage and many other things…room service is also tip included . If they are so dependent on the tips, is about time that they include that amount in the price of the room…the maî·tre d'hôtel is a management position and I refuse to tip this person…if he doesn’t like it…so be it

  • @kimberlirandall552
    @kimberlirandall552 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you this is so h helpful.

  • @lisaharrington6488
    @lisaharrington6488 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    All good information to know. Thank you! 😊

  • @patsysmack5716
    @patsysmack5716 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great show. I always enjoy your presentations.

  • @druegillis1744
    @druegillis1744 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Ilana, Don’t forget $2.00 bills! I got a bunch of 2’s for our cruise because they are rare and the person you are tipping will remember who gave them. Plus it reduces the number of one dollar bills you need on hand. And it makes it easy to tip baggage handlers. 3 bags, 3 $2 dollar bills. Sometimes your bank will have to order some in for you but they are unique and service providers will remember you!

    • @gigs2riches892
      @gigs2riches892 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      My mom gives my kids $2 bills for every birthday

    • @NCNATIVE
      @NCNATIVE ปีที่แล้ว +2

      We do the same, even at home $2 bills get attention.

    • @vhdalton17
      @vhdalton17 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      This is what I do when I go.

    • @judithpearson8870
      @judithpearson8870 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      This is what we plan to do.

    • @paulfuller7175
      @paulfuller7175 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Such a great idea

  • @jayoneill1533
    @jayoneill1533 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Excellent advice, thanks.

  • @earljklec1684
    @earljklec1684 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great info thank you

  • @deev556
    @deev556 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    This video was very informative. Thank you so much

  • @wendylam8367
    @wendylam8367 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Love your channel…so informative and pleasant to watch 🙏🥰

  • @joelaub7526
    @joelaub7526 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video. Thank you.

  • @deannmoran7331
    @deannmoran7331 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for sharing

  • @markrubinstein7889
    @markrubinstein7889 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Your videos have been very helpful in planning our first cruise. Thank you for all the great videos.

  • @judywelday9387
    @judywelday9387 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    I always extra tip our cabin attendants and our MDR servers because these people take care of us daily and we really appreciate them. Love your videos!

  • @sweetypatnett6123
    @sweetypatnett6123 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for sharing this video. I will definitely keep those things in mind. ❤

  • @chandradaniels1332
    @chandradaniels1332 14 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Enjoy all your videos

  • @teagenthetiefling5296
    @teagenthetiefling5296 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    This was a very useful video! Thank you for breaking this down in such detail. It takes a lot of anxiety out of the process.

  • @mychaelvo7597
    @mychaelvo7597 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    I am not cheap and I do give tips ...but watching this video really stress me out with how much awareness I need to have with tipping on a cruise. I have been to many cruises so I know the drill ...but is is still tiring. I am going on a cruise soon, in Jan-2024.

    • @kaasmeester5903
      @kaasmeester5903 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

      Watching these videos, it appears that cruising is a hellish minefield of do's and don'ts :)

    • @MoDavI-sl7iy
      @MoDavI-sl7iy 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I agree

  • @amyparis5756
    @amyparis5756 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very helpful information.

  • @user-ib4uy4yl6z
    @user-ib4uy4yl6z ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video
    I love when you give pros and cons

  • @matthewferrick3288
    @matthewferrick3288 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I find it easier to prepay my gratuities. These workers work long hours for not very much money and send a lot home. I always tip my cabin steward extra when I first meet them. If I find a bar I really like and get great service I'll tip there. I'm a solo cruiser so we get a solo cruise director on NCL I'll tip them and so on. I feel it's good to be generous and the employees will really go the extra mile.

  • @arokh72
    @arokh72 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    I'd like to add that cruises based out of Australia have gratuities baked into the fare you pay. So if you pay $1058pp AUD for a 4 day cruise ex Sydney, that's all gratuities, taxes, and service charges included. This includes purchasing drinks packages, etc. However you can tip your cabin steward, and others if you so desire, for good service, however as tipping is generally not part of the Australian culture it is optional.

    • @esterdrass4964
      @esterdrass4964 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I like that idea best, include it all and if you want to leave extra, you can. I am very well used to the idea of having plenty of at hand cash for tipping.

    • @ROBMACDUI
      @ROBMACDUI 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      This! Here in America the businesses like to put the responsibility of paying the employee on the customer. It's so out of control. Literally every time we pay for anything we are confronted with a screen asking how much tip we want to add and that tip usually starts at 20% and goes up from there.

  • @barbo1106
    @barbo1106 หลายเดือนก่อน

    GREAT video topic!
    Thank you so much for this detailed guidance. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

  • @kimberlytate2623
    @kimberlytate2623 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS GREAT INFORMATION🙏✝️❤

  • @lindaprice1876
    @lindaprice1876 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Thank you for this video. I’ve double tipped but was fine doing that for most services. Crew work really hard and I feel like they deserve it.

  • @MrHardhatharry
    @MrHardhatharry ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks,! On a previous cruise we gave an extra tip to our waiter and room attendant. Both were exceptional and deserved a cash bonus.

  • @cruiseaddicts4987
    @cruiseaddicts4987 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Love the video guys 😍😍🛳️🛳️🛳️

  • @robertcold4669
    @robertcold4669 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Outstanding video on a much needed to be explained topic.

  • @susansullivan9626
    @susansullivan9626 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I keep auto gratuities for sure but tip waiters and sommeliers at every meal, usually $5 and $1 for random drinks around ship. Tip cabin steward around $5 a day at end of trip. Anyone else who goes out of their way to solve a problem I tip at the time.
    Of course, it depends on your financial means but I know for sure I have more than those hard working crew members who leave their families for months at a time and work 7 days a week.

  • @tonygreen249
    @tonygreen249 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thanks good video, I just hate the tipping culture because it seems if you’re paying for service that they should be providing any way. I worked in the service industry and have seen how some discriminate by saying a certain group don’t tip as much and they don’t like servicing them. The company should pay them enough and give incentives on good service by surveys and etc.

  • @bettycampbell9610
    @bettycampbell9610 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for answering some of my questions on cruising.

  • @jeancooper1442
    @jeancooper1442 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Excellent information

  • @coffeecake8835
    @coffeecake8835 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Everyone should watch your cruise tips before cruising. Concise, and to the point. 👍

  • @helenorgarycrevonis2022
    @helenorgarycrevonis2022 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    Love your presentation skills! As always helpful, clear and understandable. The service charge in the Spa is a very good catch, the first couple times I double tipped, no big deal, but it could get pricey.

    • @MrClickitorTicket
      @MrClickitorTicket ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We have gotten massages in the past. I know the 18% gratuity is added to the cost of the massage. Even still, I will tip extra in cash as the massage is usually very good. Then I ask them not to badger me with the attempts to upsell us there potions and lotions. The cash tip is more than what they will make on the commission of that stuff they try to sell me. They have been happy to comply with my request. This is all done politely.

    • @melissaduffy4
      @melissaduffy4 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@MrClickitorTicket Also, I wonder how much of that 18% if any the masseuses actually get when it is not paid directly to them.

    • @mediagem
      @mediagem 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ​@@MrClickitorTicket😊

  • @travelandmore888
    @travelandmore888 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very good information

  • @joanevans3872
    @joanevans3872 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you Illiana, needed to hear ythis, as was confused ... love your videos

  • @shannonalward217
    @shannonalward217 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I always try to prepay gratuities and then tip extra for exceptional services. Great video as always!

  • @patriciasmith364
    @patriciasmith364 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    My husband and I keep one tip on the bill and we remove the other tip. We use the removed money, along with extra money to tip the waiters, the room attendant and anyone else who has done anything extra for us. A 5 day cruise will usually amount to close to $100 for the tip that we keep on the tab, and we usually end up giving out another $200. That usually works out well for us.

  • @user-sd3xp6oi6u
    @user-sd3xp6oi6u ปีที่แล้ว

    Great content 😊

  • @ScottLara
    @ScottLara 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video!!!

  • @mikebilon8208
    @mikebilon8208 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Since for the most part traditional dinning is no more. It's difficult to tip the MDR staff since you may have a different team through out the cruise. I tip my stateroom stewards even if the service is 'standard', it's still been a tough three years for them.

  • @alwilliams64964
    @alwilliams64964 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    One thing that I don't think you mentioned. If you get complimentary drinks or food (because of a loyalty tier level, suite perks, etc.), then there is typically no automatic service charge. Tipping in this situation is a good idea.

  • @fletcherprince
    @fletcherprince ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the tips about tips!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks so much! I appreciate your super thanks 😊

  • @geraldcousineau4164
    @geraldcousineau4164 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Excellent tips that I'll used Many thanks for your expertise.

  • @cherriekorpusik6113
    @cherriekorpusik6113 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Ilana, I am going to Alaska on first cruise ever. I can’t tell you enough how helpful your videos have been. Your explanations and advice have been priceless to me. Thank you does not seem enough!! Stay safe and well. Best regards, Cherrie

    • @NanetteG.-ii4xy
      @NanetteG.-ii4xy ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Bring binaculars. For wonderful sights in Alaska 👍😊

  • @tracydickson8575
    @tracydickson8575 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    You're always thoughtful and respectful in your approach, and that was especially evident here - on what's often a very touchy subject. Another excellent video!

  • @lindastover9541
    @lindastover9541 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video ❤❤❤❤

  • @DinaRadicaFilms
    @DinaRadicaFilms ปีที่แล้ว

    Great...Nice to know.

  • @michaelalbert5518
    @michaelalbert5518 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have been bringing a strap of$1 bills to ensure I do not run out of small bills....I use them to "double tip" the bar waiters for better service. This has worked so well in fact, that I have gotten preferential treatment, by this I mean, getting my drinks faster than other people, even if they have been in the bar before me.

  • @bonniesatterberg1018
    @bonniesatterberg1018 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    This was GREAT information on tipping! Do you have any suggestions on the proper way to acknowledge a ship’s officer who routinely goes above and beyond to make your cruise special?

  • @robinwojcik8514
    @robinwojcik8514 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for this information! 1st time cruiser and had no clue!

  • @ChristianFriendsFamily_7673
    @ChristianFriendsFamily_7673 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video, this is very helpful since I'm going on my frist cruise thanks for sharing

  • @Mushkiepotamus
    @Mushkiepotamus ปีที่แล้ว +79

    I recently went on my first cruise, taking my mom for her 84th birthday!! We were Aqua Class, all included (gratuities, wifi, classic drink package) on Celebrity Constellation for 10 nights in the Caribbean! I upgraded to the premium drink package.
    Even though I pre-paid the gratuity I still spent over $700 +++ on extra tips. I viewed the pre-paid tips as they were for those people that were behind the scenes, those I didn’t interact with face to face- entertainment, kitchen staff, maintenance people. If I saw them face to face and they helped us or made the cruise easier or more fun- I gave a cash tip and often asked to speak to their supervisor and took their picture with their name tag so I made sure I could include them in my post-cruise survey.
    It started at the terminal- we tipped the porter $5 per bag ($20), $10 for the valet, another $20 for the crew that got my mom a wheelchair and wheeled her to our cabin. Same goes for debarkation day staff. I gave $20 to the person that delivered the bag to our room. I typically tipped $5 each time I ordered my mom and i’s cocktails. Since we had the premium package, the tips were finite and we LOVED our bartenders at the Martini Bar and they deserved tips with each FABULOUS CONCOCTION they made us. Cafe Bacio- $5 for the 2 coffees, if they brought pastries with our coffee- then $10. My cabin steward was awesome and tipped him $150. The wine sommelier that chose some wonderful wines- about $15 tip per bottle. The bus driver for the excursion, I tipped $20 and our tour host $25. The buffet food was pretty tasteless, so we only went for a couple of times but when we did stop in, if someone brought us cocktails or cleared away the dirty dishes, I tipped them $5-10. We tipped the hostess at Blu $40 because she always seemed to find a wonderful table for us- we never made a reservation. My mom rode a scooter or used a walker to get around the ship- when we would go to and from our cabin, there were always other cabin crew cleaning rooms and their carts were in the hall. Most were pleasant about moving their cart so she could get by. One was grumpy and rude. Regardless we would apologize for making their work harder and thanked them profusely for being so kind to move their cart. One of the cabin stewards ALWAYS smiled, moved his cart out of the way along before we go to where he was. He always asked us how our day was going or how our night was - he wasn’t even our steward. I pulled him aside one day and thank him for his kindness, his never ending smile and how much his attitude and actions made my mom feel comfortable and not a burden. I gave him $20 and asked to speak to his supervisors- which I did. I also included him in my survey- along with all the others that made the cruise soo wonderful for my mom.
    The one thing I took away from this cruise is how hard the staff works - day and night. And when you verbally thank them, show appreciation to them, tell their supervisors about the wonderful service they provided- they were over the moon thrilled. When a tip is included - it was a different response- almost emotional- sooo many of the crew are supporting family they rarely get to see. The tip meant life - food, rent, medical and schooling, etc to families that back home.

    • @Jog_on
      @Jog_on ปีที่แล้ว +52

      It's nice for you that you can afford to do that. In the UK we pay high for everything. Tipping to this level isn't an option for many.

    • @nancyannesunboxings
      @nancyannesunboxings ปีที่แล้ว +16

      You are a very generous tipper!

    • @beachmom2001
      @beachmom2001 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      You are a very generous person. I just came home from a cruise and tipped extra cash quite often as well. Tipped my cabin attendant an extra $100, dining room waiter $100, dining room assistant waiter $100. Went to chef's table, tipped on top of the gratuity included with chef's table. Same with Chop's Grill. I received free drinks but still tipped for every complimentary drink that I received. Tipped the guy taking my omelet order who knew my name by the 3rd day, $5 at the end of the cruise. Same to the cook making the omelets. Tipped my tour operators, porter at terminal on embarkation and debarkation. Tipped the shuttle driver back to the hotel. I probably tipped at least $500 extra. Working in the service industry in the US, I know how hard these folks work.

    • @timduggan1461
      @timduggan1461 ปีที่แล้ว

      Took my Mom to Alaska 2005. Celebrity Millennium. So, nearly 20 years ago....I have also been aboard the Constellation but before upgrades and re-fits.

    • @brucehackert914
      @brucehackert914 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Obvious a shill

  • @troygriffin96
    @troygriffin96 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

    Thank you Illana. I notice too often that people who enjoy a particular venue on a ship, don't tip their wait staff. I do the automatic gratuities, but I understand that great service deserves a little more. You not only do the crew a benefit, but they remember how to do a better job interacting with their customers. Kudos to those that choose to tip extra!

  • @renamccully1462
    @renamccully1462 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    When traveling anywhere away from home, i always find out what the tipping culture is for my destination. A cruise ship is a destination all its own, of sorts. I tip generously, not because i have extra money laying around but because i budget for it as part of my vacation cost, and it's a small way for me to appreciate those who work so hard to help make my cruise enjoyable. There's a saying out there "When in Rome..."

  • @conniecox1740
    @conniecox1740 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was JUST talking to my husband about this subject over dinner! Thank you for the information as this will be our first cruise

  • @frankpasini4304
    @frankpasini4304 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I always tip extra in cash for the porter at the pier, room attendant, and if we have assigned seating for dinner, the wait staff. You be surprised how much extra attention you receive by giving extra cash.

  • @dbenadon
    @dbenadon ปีที่แล้ว +133

    Another great video on a sensitive topic delivered with care. We always pre-pay and then tip in cash our room steward, butler (if we are in the Haven) and bartenders that we use. The crews work so hard and for so long, I think that every budget should allow some extra cash to show appreciation.

    • @medinawick28
      @medinawick28 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Exactly... The actual person taking care of your wants and needs need to have the extra "tip" to show your appreciation. These attendants are sending all they can to their family back home.

    • @veronicashine1812
      @veronicashine1812 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      We do the same. We always prepay. I find it so much easier on having a very low end of the cruise bill. I do leave an extra tip for the cabin steward and asst. I know that tips are included in spa services and some drink packages, but I still tip the bartender and massage therapist.

    • @21AirDrop
      @21AirDrop ปีที่แล้ว +2

      May I ask what you tipped your Haven room steward, butler and MDR server? I was thinking $100 each. Additionally, I pre-pay gratuities as well, the cash tip is additional.

    • @veronicashine1812
      @veronicashine1812 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@21AirDrop That would be about what we do for cabin steward and butler. I never do MDR but the Haven has their own venue to dine in and we rend to do specialty dining. I always get different servers and just let the prepay take care of that but the maître d' of the Haven restaurant will get 50. We had a great one who had made sure we had a lovely and same table each time we dined there.

    • @lenvella9541
      @lenvella9541 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      You do not prepay for tips or gratuities look it up you are a fool if you pay in advance for something you have not yet had.

  • @mimicheng2153
    @mimicheng2153 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great topic! We always tip extra to our stateroom Stewart, waiter/waitress at dining room & bartender.

  • @florencelacy4190
    @florencelacy4190 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    ❤thank you for your helpful and informative videos❤ The crew "work" so hard to make our vacation so nice. Yes, it's a great idea to bring small bills. We love that you can pre pay your tips, and I am always open to giving a tip to our Stewart . This year, we had the best server on The Ruby Princess in the Vines wine bar. He was outstanding 👏

  • @leticiaharvey8085
    @leticiaharvey8085 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I love tipping as long as they are doing a good job. Nowadays, hardly anyone does a great job.

    • @glockman9c
      @glockman9c 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You are going on the wrong cruises.

  • @ricknolte6846
    @ricknolte6846 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Perfect timing on this video as I am going on a Mediterranean cruise in a few weeks to celebrate retirement. For crew members who I feel deserve something extra I bought some thank you cards and envelopes to use for tipping at the end of the cruise. If a server, room attendant or someone made my voyage special I can thank with a card and a tip. My question though is should I tip in Euros or dollars? LOL! Any advice? Looking forward to a great vacation with Celebrity.

  • @shecrazyhorse3122
    @shecrazyhorse3122 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for Sharing ❤ 🥀 😎

  • @LovemyCatsa
    @LovemyCatsa ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks!

  • @DoItRight911
    @DoItRight911 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    We just learned a new tip after 72 cruises. First day on a 13 night cruise went to our room on embarkation and met the room steward who was just finishing cleaning our room. We tipped him ahead for the week. Then latter that evening a new room steward introduced himself. We were confused and said What happened to the room steward we had earlier? He said he is in a new area for this cruise. So we learned never tip the first day. (Side note we already prepaid the regular gratuities before cruise)

    • @annar6081
      @annar6081 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Why would you pay in advance for the service you did not get yet?
      How did you feel when you figure out that a new person is there?

    • @DoItRight911
      @DoItRight911 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@annar6081 We know we are going to get the service. When we tip ahead we get even better service than waiting until the end. When they know you’re generous and a tipper do they do more for you. If you don’t tip they don’t know if you will ever tip.
      We just tipped the new guy. We will wait or ask to insure that person will be our room steward for the week next time. The only time this ever happened in 75 cruises now.

  • @SlackerWannaB
    @SlackerWannaB ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I wish they would include the prepaid gratuities in US cruise fares like they do in the UK.

  • @CaraNaturally
    @CaraNaturally ปีที่แล้ว

    I prepay and then tip some more! Just helps me with budgeting.

  • @xolatinaxo1239
    @xolatinaxo1239 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I always tip and I’m happy I do.

  • @dorotadurazinska7822
    @dorotadurazinska7822 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    3h to go before I am on my first ever cruise. Thank you for all your tips.

    • @AceGoodheart
      @AceGoodheart 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      How much did they tip you?

    • @janetholmes733
      @janetholmes733 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Have fun😊

  • @oldguy9078
    @oldguy9078 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I always tip porters at the port, bar tenders on board I usually give a bar tender one dollar and two if I order one drink for me and one for my wife. We usually always have a drink package so gratuities have been paid but I like to give them a dollar or so extra when I order. I always give the Cabin Steward extra especially if they have been attentive and have great personalities usually on the next to last night on board. We always tip drivers and guides on excursions and always check the bill at a local restaurant or bar it may be added automatically but they really expect more.

  • @katrinamcintosh3565
    @katrinamcintosh3565 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Absolutely love your videos and your information has provided a wealth of knowledge for booking and going on my cruise in October.