Norwegian Cruise Line · What it costs
How much are gratuities?
The answer
Checked 2026-09-21No required or recommended tipping for general service
- Norwegian states you should not feel obliged to tip, and staff may accept cash for exceptional service.
- 20% is still added automatically to spa and salon services, all beverage purchases and specialty dining.
- Concierge, butler, youth staff and beverage servers do not share the overall service charge, so the line suggests tipping them directly.
In one sentence — Norwegian Cruise Line: No required or recommended tipping for general service. Norwegian states you should not feel obliged to tip, and staff may accept cash for exceptional service. 20% is still added automatically to spa and salon services, all beverage purchases and specialty dining. Concierge, butler, youth staff and beverage servers do not share the overall service charge, so the line suggests tipping them directly. Read from Norwegian Cruise Line's own published policy on 2026-09-21. Cruise lines change policies without notice — confirm with Norwegian Cruise Line before relying on this.
Why this one catches people out
Nearly every line adds a daily service charge per person. It is not optional in practice, and it is the charge people are most often surprised by.
Where this came from
https://www.ncl.com/faq/how-do-gratuities-work-on-cruiseWe read these policies from each cruise line's own pages and record the date we read them. Lines change their rules without notice. Always confirm with the cruise line before you rely on anything here.