Cruise Lines have been raising gratuity fees in an effort to help offset inflation rates that are impacting crew members.
Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Disney Cruise Line all implemented gratuity increases this year, and now two more cruise lines are following suit.
Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America will be increasing their gratuity charges in January and February respectively.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s new gratuity rates will take effect January 1, 2023 while Holland America Line will implement its increase the following month, February 1, 2023.
Norwegian Cruise Line gratuities are increasing from $2 – $5 per passenger per day. Those staying in the Haven and Suite cabins will see a $5 increase. Those taking advantage of the Club Balcony suites will see a $2 increase, and everyone else will see a $4 increase.
Guests can still book their cruise with the old prices through January 1, 2023. To receive the old pricing, cruisers must have pre-paid their gratuities. Gratuities paid on board will receive the new rates beginning January 1.
While it is nominal, Holland America Line is also increasing its gratuity rates in 2023. Beginning February 1, 2023, Holland America is increasing gratuities $0.50 per passenger for all cabin categories.
These increases are really not a surprise as inflation is affecting crew members just as it is affecting each of us. It is expected that more cruise lines will be making increases in the coming year.
Remember, as you are paying those gratuities for your next cruise, you are paying your waiter, cabin steward, bartender, server, and others who help make your vacation one you’ll never forget.