Tipping is one of the most confusing parts of a river cruise, because it varies by line. Here's the breakdown.
Gratuities included (no tipping needed)
- Tauck — all gratuities included
- Uniworld — all gratuities included
- Scenic — all gratuities included
- Riverside — all gratuities included
Gratuities extra
- Viking — recommend €15 per passenger per day (added to shipboard account)
- AMA Waterways — recommend €17 per passenger per day
- Avalon — recommend €15 per passenger per day
- Emerald — recommend €15 per passenger per day
Should you pre-pay?
Most lines let you pre-pay gratuities at booking — and we recommend it. It removes the end-of-cruise math and lets you sail without reaching for your wallet. Budget €100–€150 per passenger for an 8-day sailing on the non-inclusive lines.
Tip
If gratuities are included (Tauck, Uniworld, Scenic, Riverside), you never need to tip onboard. For off-ship guides and drivers on included excursions, a few euros is appreciated but not expected.
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