Understanding the tipping system can be overwhelming for first-time Disney cruisers. This guide clarifies the nuances of gratuity practices aboard, helping guests navigate their cruise vacation confidently.
Automatic Base Tipping
Disney Cruise Line applies a standard gratuity of $14.50 per person per night. For a 7-night cruise, this amounts to $101.50 per person. This can be prepaid or charged to your onboard account during the cruise.
The automatic gratuity is distributed among four key crew members:
- Stateroom Host ($4.75/night): Maintains your stateroom, making beds and providing personalized service.
- Assistant Server ($3.75/night): This position assists the main server with drinks, food service, and dining room duties.
- Head Server ($1.25/night): This person oversees the dining experience, handles special requests, and manages the serving team.
- Main Server ($4.75/night): Your primary point of contact for meals, remembering preferences and providing attentive service throughout the ship.
Concierge Tipping
There is a standard gratuity in addition to the tipping listed above for guests in concierge rooms.
- Concierge staff $8.00/night per person
- Assistant Stateroom host $1,00/night per person
Additional Tipping
Guests can provide extra tips in cash or add them to their onboard account at Guest Services. If desired, envelopes are provided for personal tip distribution on the last night.
Other Tipping Situations:
- Bars and Coffee Shops: An 18% gratuity is automatically added.
- Room Service: While complimentary, a $1-3 tip per item ordered is appreciated.
- Adult Dining: 18% auto-gratuity on alcohol; 18-20% recommended for food.
- Spa Services: An 18% gratuity is automatically added.
- Port Porters: $2-3 per bag in cash is customary.
- Shore Excursions: Tips are optional but appreciated for good service.
- Kids Club Staff: Generally do not accept tips, but may take cash or small gifts if insisted upon.
- Castaway Cay Cabana Hosts: $20-40 per cabana daily is typical.
By following these guidelines, guests can ensure appropriate recognition of the crew’s efforts in creating a memorable cruise experience.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, that if you make a purchase through my links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support of this site.