Celebrity Cruises faces passenger backlash over surprise daily tip increase
Celebrity Cruises raised its automatic daily gratuity by $1.50 per passenger with immediate effect, prompting many guests to protest and consider cash tips instead.
On July 29, Celebrity Cruises announced a $1.50 per-person increase in its mandatory daily gratuity, setting rates between $19.50 and $24.50 based on stateroom category. The adjustment also adds a 20% tip to onboard purchases such as drinks, specialty dining, and spa services. Guests voiced frustration that the notice arrived the same day the new charges began, arguing for better advance warning.
While a portion of travelers plan to withdraw from the automatic system and hand cash tips directly to staff, some passengers expressed support for the higher amount, citing crew performance. A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company, said the gratuity program aligns with industry norms and helps compensate crew members.
Why it matters
The sudden fee hike affects cruise passengers' travel budgets and raises questions about transparency in hospitality pricing.
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