crew appreciation charges
Coverage of crew appreciation charges in the Nexus archive.
- America’s tipping culture has gone from rewarding service to fee insanity
The article criticizes the evolution of tipping culture in the U.S., where tipping has shifted from a voluntary reward for service to mandatory fees and pooled gratuities. It highlights practices like automatic tip prompts at coffee shops, 'crew appreciation' charges on cruise ships, and restaurant surcharges, arguing these obscure pricing and reduce the personal appreciation aspect of tipping.
- Cruise tipping charges are 'out of control,' say passengers as companies tout 'exceptional service'
Cruise passengers are criticizing rising automatic gratuities and service charges as 'out of control,' with Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, and Carnival Cruise Line increasing fees in 2026. Companies claim the charges support crew members and align with industry standards, but travelers report discrepancies between advertised pricing and final costs.