In this guide
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 — ask which gratuities and service charges are covered by the quoted package
Gratuities extra
- Viking — gratuity guidance is provided for the sailing and may be prepaid or settled onboard
- AmaWaterways — recommended amounts and prepayment options vary by region and booking
- Avalon — check the current prepayment and onboard guidance for the itinerary
- Emerald — gratuities are included in the published European river program; confirm the terms of your departure
Should you pre-pay?
Some lines allow gratuities to be prepaid; others settle them onboard or include them in selected markets and fares. Confirm the currency, suggested amount, and which crew or guides are covered before departure.
Tip
Inclusions and local customs can change. Use the cruise line's current written guidance for the exact sailing instead of an old per-day figure from a general article.
Put this into action
Turn this guide into your sailing
A VPC cruise advisor can apply what you've read to current ships, departures, cabins, and supplier offers without an added planning service fee.