Dossier
cruise tipping charges
Coverage of cruise tipping charges in the Nexus archive.
- Cruise tipping charges are ‘out of control,’ say passengers as companies tout ‘exceptional service’
Passengers criticize cruise tipping charges as 'out of control,' while cruise companies like Holland America promote 'exceptional service.' Holland America introduced a new $20-per-day 'crew appreciation' charge for suite guests.
- 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.