Tipping is a custom that originated in Europe in the 17th century. It came to America courtesy of wealthy travelers who enjoyed the idea that “TIPS” (an acronym for “To Insure Proper / Prompt Service”) allowed them a higher standard of personal attention. Tipping is now customary in many service-based professions, including various members of the staff on passenger ships.

The experts at CruiseCompete and affiliate All Things Cruise often hear the question “When should I tip?” Here are four potential approaches to gratuities / tipping, courtesy of our seasoned cruisers.

Four Gratuity Approaches to Consider When Traveling Aboard a Cruise Ship

Yes, you know many cruise lines build in TIPS / tipping as a line item on your shipboard account. You likely leave that alone, yet want to give certain people something extra. Here are four approaches:

1. Tipping on arrival. It’s been said TIPS originally meant: “To Insure Proper Service.” or “To Improve Professional Service.” You are saying: “I’m making it worth your while to take care of me.”
   Pro: You’ve got their attention. You’ve made it worth their while.
   Con: Since they’ve been paid up front, there isn’t a great motivation to go above and beyond in hopes of a big tip at the end.


2. Splitting the tip. You tip on arrival, letting them know they should expect another tip at departure.
   Pro: Best of both worlds. They know you are a tipper; you’ve already delivered. There’s more to come, but how much? Con: Few. If it’s a longer voyage and the staff person’s contract ends mid-voyage, their replacement didn’t get the “arrival bonus.”


3. During the trip. You are on a 21- or 101-day voyage. You tip a proportional amount at the end of each week.
   Pro: It relieves the staff member’s anxiety of waiting until the last day to see what you will do. They have money to send home or spend in port.
   Con: Few, except you need to setup for this with envelopes and smaller bills several times instead of just once.


4. Tipping on departure. It’s the traditional way. The stationary folder in your cabin has a supply of white envelopes. If not, ask at the Purser’s office. They can change large bills into small bills. You hand out envelopes on the last night.
   Pro: It’s how it’s always been done.
   Con: Your steward, waiter and others are waiting until the last moment to learn if you will reward their service.