Service charges to be included for Australia and New Zealand sailings.
Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises have just unveiled a new “streamlined” fare structure, under which gratuities for stateroom attendants and dining room staff will be included in cruise prices.
The move means clients will pay a single inclusive cruise fare incorporating all main meals, accommodation, kids club, entertainment and activities. Passengers will continue to have the option to provide a discretional additional gratuity.
“Guests will see no change to the published price of cruises via any Royal Caribbean point of sale, including website, advertising and call centre pricing,” the company said.
The change means free gratuities will no longer be available as one of the perks included in the Go Big, Go Better, Go Best promotion.
The all-inclusive fares apply to new bookings effective 12 December 2016 onwards, on sailings departing on or after 15 January 2017.
More details in Cruise Weekly next week.