Are Gratuities Included on River Cruises?
If you’re planning a river cruise, one of the most common questions is: “Are gratuities included?” The answer depends on your cruise line and destination — but it’s always worth checking before you sail. We recommend having local currency on hand for ease of tipping.
Here’s the Yellow Umbrella Travel Q&A to answer all of your River Cruise Gratuity Questions:
Are gratuities included on river cruises?
It varies! Some cruise lines include them automatically, while others add them to your onboard account or let you prepay before your trip. Knowing which applies to your cruise can help you plan and avoid surprises.
Which river cruise lines include gratuities?
Many luxury lines — like Uniworld, Scenic, and Tauck — include gratuities for the crew, dining team, and even local guides. These all-inclusive options make it easy to relax, knowing everything is already taken care of.
What about lines like Viking or AmaWaterways?
A: With lines such as Viking and AmaWaterways, gratuities are usually not included in your fare. You can prepay them before you travel or have them charged to your onboard account. The suggested amount is typically $20–$25 per guest, per day for crew, $8-$13 per person, per day for the cruise director, plus small tips (in local currency preferred) for local guides or drivers during excursions.
Do I need to tip during shore excursions?
A: Even if your onboard gratuities are covered, it’s always thoughtful to tip local guides and drivers. A few dollars in local currency per person is a nice gesture for excellent service.
How do I know which gratuities are included in my river cruise fare?
Each river cruise line lists its gratuity policy in the booking details and on its website — and of course, your Yellow Umbrella Travel advisor is always happy to confirm what’s covered before you go.
The Yellow Umbrella Travel Take:
typically provides an indication of the recommended tip amount, which is often listed in your cruise documents.
Knowing what’s covered upfront helps you avoid costly surprises — and ensures you can simply enjoy the views, cuisine, and culture that make river cruising so special.
Yellow Umbrella Travel is here to help answer your questions every step of the way! Are you ready to set sail? Reach out to our team today to get started planning your river cruise excursion.
