Pre-Paid Service Charge

I'm in a variety of Facebook groups for cruisers. The subject of pre-paid service charge aka gratuities has become a hot topic this past weekend. For many, they may not understand why the cruise line charges a pre-paid service charge. The service charge can be added to your cruise before you sail, or it will be added daily to your ship account once on board.

The service charge is split between staff in the main dining, buffet, the room steward and more. They are paid a salary and work for gratuities in addition. This means a lot to the employees as most send money home to support their families. If you have extraordinary service, feel free to tip extra. The drinks also include an 18% service charge. We will tip extra to those who remember us and go out of their way to get our beverages. We also give extra cash to our room steward, especially with the kids in tow. A little extra means a lot to the staff. Remember the staff to guest ratio is what makes cruising enjoyable. They work long hours and always have a smile.

How much are the service charges?

For bookings made prior to April 1st, 2019, that prepay their service charges before their sail date:

For all ships excluding Norwegian Sky All-Inclusive and Norwegian Sun All-Inclusive

$17.50 USD per person per day for The Haven, Concierge and Suites; $14.50 USD per person per day for all other stateroom types

Norwegian Sky All-Inclusive and Norwegian Sun All-Inclusive

$23 USD per person per day for Suites;$20 USD per person per day for all other stateroom types

For bookings made on or after April 1, 2019 or for sailings April 1, 2019 and beyond whose service charges have not been prepaid:

For all ships excluding Norwegian Sky All-Inclusive and Norwegian Sun All-Inclusive

$18 USD per person per day for The Haven, Concierge and Suites $15 USD per person per day for all other stateroom types

Norwegian Sky All-Inclusive and Norwegian Sun All-Inclusive

$23.50 USD per person per day for Suites$20.50 USD per person per day for all other stateroom types

Guests sailing to Hawaii will be charged an additional 4.275% Pre Paid Service Charge GET Tax