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FAQ: MSC Cruises - Service Charges/Gratuities

When you step aboard an MSC Cruise, you are not just embarking on a voyage to exciting destinations - you are also entering a world of top-tier service, comfort, and care.

Behind every part of every experience is a dedicated team working both in front and behind the scenes, in order to ensure your cruise experience is smooth, relaxing and unforgettable.

One question that often comes up for guests, is about service charges and tipping. Here’s what you need to know:

Service charges and gratuities are included

With MSC Cruises, there’s no need to worry about calculating tips or budgeting extra for service: gratuities are already included in your cruise fare. This means that the cost of recognising the hardworking staff who make your experience special is covered before you even set sail.

It's a team effort behind the scenes

From your room steward to the chefs, waitstaff, entertainers, and countless crew members behind the scenes, everyone plays a part in creating a seamless cruise experience. The service charge ensures that all team members are acknowledged for their contributions, not just the ones you see daily.

There is no need for individual tipping

While it may be customary on other lines or in other settings to tip individuals, MSC Cruises does not recommend tipping individual members of staff. The goal is to make your trip as carefree and enjoyable as possible, with no pressure or confusion around tips.

You can simply relax and enjoy your cruise

With everything taken care of, you can focus on what really matters: savouring gourmet meals, soaking up the sun, exploring new cultures, and creating memories with your loved ones. MSC Cruises is committed to providing exceptional service, and that commitment is built into every fare.

So go ahead, book a cruise through our app or website, with the help of our dedicated agents - then board your cruise, relax, and let MSC take care of everything else.

If you're thinking of booking a cruise for your next holiday, My Kind of Cruise have an app for that! With thousands of cruises at fantastic prices, we pass savings straight to you! Download the app today and get booking!

Booking a cruise, made easy

The My Kind of Cruise app is your all-in-one solution for cruise planning. Easily search, compare, and book your ideal cruise with a user-friendly interface offering detailed itineraries, competitive pricing, and advanced search filters.

Your bookings are 100% financially secure, as all our cruises are ABTA and ATOL protected. Plan your perfect voyage with confidence and convenience using My Kind of Cruise.

Available in the UK and US. Ts & Cs apply.

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What's included when I book a cruise holiday?

What's included on a cruise ship holiday? Is food included? Are drinks included? Are shore excursions included? Are trips included?

Can I choose what time I eat at night, table size and who I am dining with?

The choice of dining times, restaurants and even the size of your table may be available for you to choose at the time of booking.

Do I have to tip or pay gratuities onboard?

Tips and tipping onboard, also known as 'Gratuities', differ for all cruise lines. Some include it, for others it's up to you.

What's a Cabin Category?

Like booking a hotel, a cruise ship has lots of different types of room types- Inside, Window or Porthole, Balcony, Suite. These are cabin categories.

What is a 'Guarantee Cabin'?

Guarantee cabins GTY are a great idea if you're travelling on a budget, don't need cabin number and you're hoping for a free upgrade

Oceanview, Seaview or Outside Cabin- What's the Difference?

Oceanview, Seaview or Outside Cabin- What's the Difference? All have natural light through a window, porthole or floor to ceiling glass.

I've booked, what happens next?

Now you've booked, all you need to do is register with your cruise line so you can see what's happening on your cruise, get all the updates

What are shore excursions?

Shore excursions are organised day trips and tours ashore in each port you visit. Organised trips mean you are fully protected against mishaps

How do I know which cruise terminal I am sailing from?

All the details for reaching your ship, port and terminal will be sent in your final documents, which will be emailed 7-14 days before departure

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