One of the most common questions cruisers ask, especially first-timers, is whether you’re expected to tip bartenders when you’ve already paid for the Deluxe Beverage Package or another drink package on Royal Caribbean.
Let’s clear it up.
👉 Not in the mood to read? Here’s the quick TikTok version ⬇️
💡 The Short Answer
No, you do not need to tip again.
Gratuity is already included in the price of your drink package.
🧾 The Details: How Gratuity Works on Drink Packages
When you check out during booking, whether on the Royal Caribbean app or website, you’ll see that an automatic 18% gratuity (service charge) is added to the base price of the drink package. This covers tips for bartenders and other beverage staff across the ship.
That means once you’re onboard, you can walk up to any bar, order a drink, and just show your SeaPass card. No signature. No tip line. No extra payment needed.
💵 What About Extra Tipping?
Here’s where things get more personal.
Some cruisers choose to bring a little cash, usually a few dollar bills, to tip a favorite bartender here or there. This is completely optional and not expected. The idea is that if you plan to return to the same bar frequently (like the Solarium bar or Schooner Bar), tipping extra might help build a rapport or even lead to faster service.
But again:
✅ You already tipped through your package.
💸 Anything beyond that is a nice gesture, not a requirement.
🛳 Real Talk: What I Do
Personally, I don’t carry cash onboard unless I’m planning to tip a specific crew member, like a favorite bartender, room steward, or someone who went above and beyond.
I love that the drink package lets me enjoy the cruise without thinking about every transaction. And knowing the gratuity is already paid for? That’s one less thing to worry about.
❓FAQs: Royal Caribbean Drink Package Gratuities
Q: Is gratuity included when I buy a drink package?
A: Yes. Royal Caribbean adds 18% gratuity automatically when you purchase any drink package. You’ll see it listed in your cart before checkout.
Q: Do I need to tip bartenders again when I order a drink?
A: No, tipping again is not required. It’s already included in your package price.
Q: Can I still tip bartenders in cash if I want to?
A: Absolutely. Many cruisers do this for a favorite bartender or when hoping to build rapport at their “go-to” bar on the ship. But it’s not expected or necessary.
Q: Will I be asked to sign a receipt or leave a tip at the bar?
A: No. When you have a drink package, you won’t be asked to sign anything or add a tip. The system already knows your drinks are covered. Cruisers without a drink package will be given a receipt for their drinks and it will include an 18% gratuity on each drink.
Q: Does this apply to all drink packages: soda, refreshment, and deluxe?
A: Yes. All Royal Caribbean drink packages include the 18% service charge.
Q: What if I order drinks through room service? Are tips included there?
A: Drink packages generally do not cover room service beverages, and room service fees may apply. You can’t use your drink package to avoid those charges.
Charity Bradley 
Leave a comment