If you’re booking a Disney Cruise vacation, you might wonder: “How do gratuities work on Disney Cruise Line?” Like Japan, automatic gratuities might seem confusing if you’re from a country where tipping isn’t common.
You may be asking:
Here’s the good news: Tipping on a Disney Cruise Line is straightforward thanks to their automated system. Standard gratuities are added to your bill separately from the cruise fare, so you don’t have to worry about tipping every time you dine. However, additional tips may be expected for certain services.
This guide will explain:
Keep reading to learn exactly how Disney Cruise gratuities work, how much you’ll pay, and how to budget wisely—so you can enjoy a stress-free vacation!
What are Gratuities?
Gratuities are tips given to the hardworking crew members who ensure your cruise is nothing short of magical. On Disney Cruise Line, gratuities are customary and can be pre-paid or added to your onboard account.
How Much to Tip on a Disney Cruise line?
The standard gratuity amount is $16 per guest, per night, including both adults and children. This total is distributed among four key crew members who provide exceptional service throughout your cruise:
For example, a 4-night cruise for a family of four would have a total gratuity charge of $256 ($16 × 4 guests × 4 nights). Check out Disney Cruise Line Blog’s Tip Calculator for some easy math!
What is “Rotational Dining?”
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Gratuities for Concierge Guests
If you are staying in a Concierge Stateroom or Suite, the recommended gratuity is $27.25 per guest, per night. This amount includes extra gratuity for:
How to Pay Disney Cruise Gratuities: Pre-Pay or Onboard?
There are two ways to handle gratuities on a Disney Cruise:
Option 1: Pre-Paid Gratuities – Pay Before Your Cruise
You can pre-pay gratuities before your cruise via My Reservations on the Disney Cruise Line website. If you booked through a travel agent, they can arrange the payment for you.
Pre-paying your gratuities allows for a hassle-free experience, as everything is taken care of in advance.
Option 2: Onboard Gratuities – Charged to Your Account
If you haven’t pre-paid, the gratuity amount will be automatically charged to your onboard account during the cruise.
At the end of your cruise, gratuities are added to your final bill. The total is charged to the credit card linked to your account. If you want to adjust any gratuities, you can visit Guest Services during your cruise.
Who Else Should You TIP on a Disney Cruise?
Most onboard services are covered by standard gratuities, but some require extra tipping. Below are key situations where you may need to provide additional gratuities.
Tipping Porters at the Cruise Terminal (Before Boarding)
When you check in at the cruise terminal, porters will assist with your luggage and deliver it to your stateroom. These porters are not employed by Disney Cruise Line, so gratuities are not included. It’s customary to tip them in cash when they handle your bags.
For more details, see “EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR A SMOOTH DISNEY CRUISE EMBARKATION DAY.”
Additional Gratuities for Drinks, Dining & Services
Some services on the ship aren’t included in standard gratuities and may require additional tipping.
Alcoholic Drinks & Bar Orders
An 18% service charge is automatically added to all alcoholic drinks and bar purchases. These charges will be billed to your onboard account, so no cash is necessary.
Gratuities for fine dining restaurants are not included in the meal price depending on the restaurant. Please check with your server. Some adult dining restaurant will have automatic 18% charge on your bill but some not.
Charges are billed to your onboard account and will be included in your final statement.
Senses Spa & Salon Services
An 18% service charge is automatically added to all spa and salon services. Additional tipping is optional but I bet they appreciate it!
Room Service (Cash Tips Recommended)
Room service is free, but gratuities are not included. Please tip the crew member who delivers your food to your stateroom!
Port Adventures & Shore Excursions
If you participate in a shore excursion, it’s customary to tip tour guides and transportation staff in cash (USD). This is not included in your excursion price.
You can always add extra gratuities if you receive exceptional service! Even when gratuities are automatically applied, many guests choose to leave additional cash tips as a way to show appreciation.
How to Give Additional Gratuities
On the last night of your cruise, you’ll receive:
If you want to add extra cash tips, you can place money inside the envelopes and hand them directly to your crew members.
Quick Summary: What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Gratuities
When to Carry Cash for Extra Tips:
Tip: Most onboard charges are cashless, but having small USD bills is helpful for additional gratuities!
Disney Cruise Line is known for outstanding service, and many guests choose to tip extra to show their appreciation. In the U.S., a 20% tip is common for restaurant and spa services, so standard cruise gratuities may feel lower than what you’d normally tip on land.
I hope this guide helps you understand the tipping system on your Disney Cruise, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment without any surprises!
Questions? Let Us Know in the Comments!
Still have questions about Disney Cruise gratuities? Drop a comment below! Your feedback helps us create even better guides for future Disney cruisers.
Wishing you an incredible Disney Cruise adventure!
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