Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?

Gratuities are not typically included in the initial cruise fare. Most cruise lines operate on a system where gratuities for service staff, such as dining and cabin attendants, are assessed separately. Cruise.com may provide specific guidelines for different cruise lines regarding their gratuity policies, as they can vary significantly. Generally, guests have the option to pre-pay gratuities at the time of booking, which can facilitate budgeting for the trip. Alternatively, some cruise lines may automatically add a gratuity charge to the onboard account. It is advisable to check the specific cruise line policy for clarity on their gratuity practices. For detailed information regarding a specific cruise and its policies, it is a good idea to look on the current web page of Cruise.com.