Royal Caribbean raises tipping guidelines

[KeithnRita]

From the RCCL Website:

Q: What are gratuity guidelines for cruises?

A: For new or existing bookings that set sail before July 1, 2011, the suggested gratuities are:

Waiter: $3.50 USD a day per guest

Assistant Waiter: $2.00 USD a day per guest

Head Waiter: $.75 USD a day per guest

Housekeeping staff: $3.50 USD a day per guest

Suite Housekeeping staff: $5.75 USD a day per guest

For new bookings that set sail on or after July 1, 2011 the suggested gratuities are:

Waiter: $3.75 USD a day per guest

Assistant Waiter: $2.15 USD a day per guest

Head Waiter: $.75 USD a day per guest

Housekeeping staff: $5.00 USD a day per guest

Suite Housekeeping staff: $7.25 USD a day per guest

.

Note: As of December 9, 2010, Royal Caribbean International is adjusting the suggested daily gratuities for dining and housekeeping staff. This is Royal Caribbean's first gratuity adjustment in 13 years, and puts our suggestions in line with our competitors. The new guidelines apply to new reservations made for sailings on or after July 1, 2011 These gratuities apply to guests of all ages

[DebbieandJerry]

Doesn't surprise me.

We made sure that we tipped extra to those that deserved it and told them that it was extra. The room steward was extremely appreciative and gracious. He told Jerry and James that he actually yields less with the mandatory tipping. Not sure if that was a ploy to get more money or the truth. But the fact of the matter was, he deserved every bit of the extra that we gave him.

[cruisetarp]

I'm fairly sure that now that RC has made the first move, the other lines will be right behind them.

[sailingrose]

My only comment is that is a large jump for the cabin steward........... maybe it's because they have an assistant.

[rogue]

It's about time! Now it will be well worth getting the cruise ship job I wanted.

[Orrymain]

It sure does add to the expense of those on a cruise. I'm one of those who believe they should be making what they need from their salaries. I can't afford all of those gratuities, which is why I tend to make use of buffets and things so that it's not as much of an issue.

[LynnS13]

Yes, I felt ths pain while recently booking our upcoming cruise in March....for 5 people, 11-days, in the Royal Family Suite....Not too "suite"....lol. I had not realized that there was an increase, but when I booked MTD, she told me what the gratuities would be per person as they need to be pre-paid for MTD...

[ametrinel]

It adds to the expense of a cruise, but the increase is really minimal in relation to what you already spend,

[Mmketeer]

Thanks for the update KethnRita.

35 Days and counting to my Allure of the Seas cruise.