Celebrity Cruises Raises Daily Gratuities by $1.50 as Passengers Threaten to Opt Out
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 30
Celebrity Cruises Raises Daily Gratuities by $1.50 as Passengers Threaten to Opt Out
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 30
Summary
July 29 brought new automatic gratuity rates of $19.50 to $24.50 per person, per day on Celebrity Cruises, triggering passenger complaints over the same-day rollout.
The $1.50 increase applies across all stateroom categories, with guests saying they had no chance to prepay at the old rate and criticizing the fee as a surprise add-on.
Several passengers said they would remove the automatic charge and tip crew in cash instead, while others argued Celebrity should fold gratuities into advertised fares.
Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity’s parent, said the gratuity program is part of crew compensation and reflects industry standards; the line also adds 20% gratuities to drinks, dining, room service and spa services.