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  • On Oct 16, 2010
    Daryl from BC Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    On our last cruise, we found the tipping standard to be quite expensive. Is it mandatory to give the suggested tipping, or is it up to the family to decide?

    Hi Daryl,

    Welcome to the Moms Panel, and thank you for your question!  I understand that you feel the tipping standard are expensive - but I hope you found the service exceptionally good.  I am a firm believer that tipping is one of those necessary items that really should be included in your budget when planning your cruise vacation.

    The tipping guidelines are certainly not mandatory, but are the recommended amount based on the level of service you should expect from Disney Cruise Line.  At the bare minimum your cast members should have provided a level of service to warrant these base guidelines.  I know in my experience the service has always exceeded my expectation - and warranted additional gratuity.

    If you feel that the service is not up to the level that would warrant these recommended gratuities, it would be most helpful to speak with guest services or the dining room manager right away, rather than withholding your gratuity.  This would more than likely resolve any issue or expectation that was not met and you could enjoy unparalleled service for the rest of the voyage.  I have been approached by the dining room manager on every voyage and they always reiterate that they want every guest to have an excellent experience - and they welcome and encourage feedback.

    The Disney Cruise Line cast members work very hard, for long durations of time, to offer first class service to their guests onboard.  A large portion of their income is derived from the gratuities that they are certain to have earned.  I strongly suggest that you budget the recommended tipping amounts into your vacation budget.  There is a handy cruise tip calculator that can be found by doing a quick internet search for "Cruise tip Calculator".

    Hope this helps!

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Meet the Panelist: Karen, New Hampshire

Ahoy matey!  My name is Karen and if there is such a person as the all-American Disney Mom, I'm it. I am a proud card-carrying member of Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club and I would love to help you plan your Disney Cruise Line vacation! Learn More About Karen

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