Royal Caribbean is raising gratuity rates next month – here's what to know
FILE-Cruise ship anchored off the shore of Grand Cayman Island, Royal Caribbean Caribbean cruise liner, Mariner of the Sea and Carnival Cruise Liner, turning to return to sea. (Photo by: MyLoupe/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Guests planning a trip on Royal Caribbean may see a higher bill the next time they travel on the cruise line.
Starting on Nov. 1., the global cruise line company will raise its gratuity rate by $0.50 per person.
This means passengers staying in suites will pay $21 per guest each day, an increase from $20.50, while rates for all other cabin categories will change from $18 to $18.50.
Gratuities are added to passengers’ onboard accounts but can be adjusted before they disembark.
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In a statement from Royal Caribbean provided to FOX Television Stations, the company wrote the following:
"Royal Caribbean is adjusting its recommended daily gratuities, in line with industry standards. Starting Nov. 1, 2024, gratuities will increase by $0.50 per guest, per day. For convenience, the daily gratuities are automatically added for guests once on board. However, vacationers are free to change the amount at their discretion. Guests who booked their sailing before Nov. 1 can prepay their gratuities based on the current guideline."
Royal Caribbean explains on its website that "gratuities collected are distributed to crew members, including dining, bar and culinary services staff, stateroom attendants, hotel services teams as well as others onboard who work to enhance the overall cruise experience."