Nearly all lines add a 15 to 18 percent gratuity when you purchase alcoholic beverages and soft drinks à la carte. You won't have to carry cash; it will be added to your account. If you buy a drinks package, gratuities may be included as part of the package. 

There's no need to tip at a specialty restaurant, even if you're paying an extra fee to dine there. However, keep in mind that some cruise lines will add a service charge of 15 to 18 percent on top of that fee.

Some ships automatically add a 15 to 18 percent tip to each spa and salon service; in other cases, gratuities are at your discretion. We recommend tipping the same way you would at a spa on land.

Did you have a great tour guide on that shore excursion? You may want to tip them $2 to $3 per person. Many passengers also tip the shuttle bus driver at least $1 per person.

You may be asked for a gratuity after a paid fitness class, and there may be a tip jar at the kids program desk. In addition, gamblers often tip their casino dealers.