Disney Cruise Line Updates Gratuity Guidelines: What Guests Need to Know

In a recent announcement, Disney Cruise Line has increased its recommended daily gratuity amounts for guests. The cruise line now suggests a gratuity of $16.00 USD per night for each stateroom guest, which includes infants and children.

Previously, the recommended gratuity stood at $14.50 per day for each guest. This adjustment reflects the cruise line’s commitment to recognizing the hard work of its crew members and ensuring a pleasant experience for all guests.

Understanding the Gratuity Breakdown

According to Disney’s website, the pre-paid gratuities are intended for various staff members, including dining room servers, their assistants, the head server, and the stateroom host. It’s important for guests to note that these gratuities do not cover room service, specialty dining, port adventures, spa services, or any other additional services.

For bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs, and spa services, an 18% gratuity will be automatically charged. All these gratuities can conveniently be charged to the onboard account, making it easier for guests to manage their expenses while enjoying their cruise.

Concierge Staterooms: Increased Gratuity Recommendations

For those staying in concierge staterooms and suites, the new recommended gratuity is now $27.75 per night per guest. This increase is meant to recognize the additional service provided to concierge guests, which includes the assistant stateroom host overseeing the Concierge accommodations and the Concierge Lounge team members.

The prior recommended gratuity for concierge guests was $23.50. While these gratuities are suggested, they remain optional. Guests can adjust or remove gratuities by contacting guest services during their cruise.

Important Gratuity Policies to Remember

Disney Cruise Line emphasizes that any requests to refund pre-paid optional gratuities must be processed entirely back to the original payment method, which can include payments made by travel agents.

Founded in 1995, Disney Cruise Line has grown significantly, boasting a fleet of six ships. The newest addition, the Disney Treasure, set sail on her maiden voyage on December 21, 2024, marking a new chapter in Disney’s commitment to family cruising.

The Landscape of Gratuities Across Cruise Lines

Gratuities on cruise lines are a common practice, providing a reliable way to reward service staff. The travel site The Points Guy notes that these automatic gratuity charges can surprise first-time cruisers, especially when costs can reach as high as $25 per day on other lines.

Disney Cruise Line’s suggested gratuity of $16 aligns well with industry standards. For comparison, Carnival Cruise Line also recommends gratuities at $16, while Royal Caribbean suggests $18.50, and Norwegian Cruise Line sets its rate at $20.

Interestingly, some cruise lines handle gratuities differently; they include these costs in their overall fare. This practice is noted by The Points Guy, highlighting cruise lines such as Azamara, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Silversea Cruises, and Virgin Voyages.

Final Thoughts on Gratuity Adjustments

As Disney Cruise Line continues to enhance its offerings for guests, understanding the updated gratuity guidelines will help create a seamless experience onboard. Whether cruising for the first time or returning to enjoy Disney’s magic at sea, being informed about these changes ensures guests can fully appreciate their journey without unexpected financial surprises.