Royal Caribbean last raised gratuities in August 2022 with an increase of $1 per day for non-suite guests and $1.50 for suite guests. Since 2015, Royal Caribbean's gratuity charge has risen 50%, from $12 to $18 per day.

Yes, Royal Caribbean has periodically increased its automatic daily gratuities to keep pace with industry standards and to ensure competitive compensation for its crew members. As of early 2026, the standard gratuity rate is typically $18.50 per guest, per day for those staying in non-suite staterooms (including Junior Suites), and $21.00 per guest, per day for those in higher-tier suites. These charges are automatically added to the guest's onboard account daily, though they can be adjusted at the Guest Services desk prior to disembarkation if necessary. Additionally, an 18% to 20% gratuity is automatically applied to all beverage purchases, specialty dining, and spa services. While these increases are often met with some debate among frequent cruisers, the cruise line maintains that the fees are essential for the "Crew Appreciation" fund, which is distributed among the dining, bar, and culinary services staff, stateroom attendants, and other hotel services teams who work behind the scenes to enhance the vacation experience.