Carnival Cruise Line abruptly raises the daily gratuity charges for the first time in three years

Carnival is set to increase gratuities for passengers for the first time since 2023.

Starting April 2, 2026, the cruise line will raise the daily gratuity rate by $1 per day, bringing the new rate for standard cabins to $17.00 per person, up from $16.00, and suites to $19.00 per person, up from $18.00. It is the same amount for all passengers, regardless of age.

However, if you've already booked your sailing, you can prepay your gratuities in advance to lock in the current rate and save money. If you wait until you're onboard and are cruising after April 2, you will be subject to the new higher fare. 

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Standard staterooms include interior, ocean-view, and balcony cabins. All suites, including Junior Suites, will be subject to the higher suite gratuity rate.

Passengers were informed of the change in an email sent on Monday, February 2. 

"We are writing to let you know that we will be changing the price for Bottomless Bubbles (for adults only – there is no price change for children) and adjusting the onboard gratuity guidelines, effective April 2, 2026, as outlined below. However, we will honor the existing price for both if purchased prior to the adjustment," the email reads. 

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Carnival last raised its gratuities in April 2023. Before that, the daily charge was $14.50 per person for standard cabins and $16.50 for suites.

All Carnival sailings booked on or after April 2, 2026, will automatically reflect the increased rate.

Moreover, Carnival Cruise Line will increase the price of the soda drink package for adults. According to the email, Bottomless Bubbles will increase to $11.99 per day. The 20% mandatory service charge will bring the daily rate to over $14.00 per day. 

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Carnival recently raised its mandatory service charge without warning, too. In December, the 18% service charge was quietly increased to 20%. 

This means that add-ons like drink packages and specialty restaurants cost more than before, even if the base rate didn't change. 

"Thank you, most especially, for your support of our onboard crew. Our shipboard team members work hard to provide exceptional and friendly service, and your gratuities go directly to benefit the crew in addition to their base pay. We hope you will agree that this slight increase is well deserved," the email concludes. 

Margaritaville at Sea recently increased the daily gratuity rate, too

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According to Margaritaville's website, the new rates are as follows:

• $22 per person, per night for standard staterooms (up from $20)
• $25 per person, per night for suites (previously $24)

This means that the laid-back cruise line has the highest daily gratuities in the industry. Norwegian, for example, charges $20 per person for standard cabins. Royal Caribbean charges $18.50.