Tipping for Spa Services

Janice Marie · #1 (**permalink**) February 1st, 2006, 10:00 PM

I've heard spa staff aren't included in the tip pool. I'm interested in using spa services on our next cruise and would appreciate advice on tipping for these services. Is tipping based on the cost of the service or the length of time of the service?

Kuki · #2 (**permalink**) February 2nd, 2006, 02:29 PM

I'd tip based on the price of the service, and how happy you were with it.
Since spa services are pretty overpriced, I think 10% is adequate.

If they hit you with the hard sell for extra products, and you discourage them, and they don't stop.. cut back on the tip and explain why.

LisaK · #3 (**permalink**) February 3rd, 2006, 08:16 AM

i totally agree with Kuki. Tip according to how much the service costs and the quality of service. I usually tip 10% of the bill.
Expect the Spa prices to be close to double what you would pay for at home.

OnlineMom · #4 (**permalink**) March 1st, 2006, 01:03 PM

I've looked into pre-booking some spa appointments on the Caribbean Princess later this month. In the Cruise Personalizer (on the Princess website), it states:

"For your convenience, a 15% gratuity will be added to the purchase price of each service."

CA Cruiser · #5 (**permalink**) March 1st, 2006, 01:25 PM

Just got off the Sapphire Princess and my bill was hand written and a line for gratuity, to fill in at my discretion. Also to let you know, they offered specials the first day on board...if you booked a treatment that day for sometime during the week, you get $20 off. The line was long so be warned.

Irish Shark · #6 (**permalink**) March 1st, 2006, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OnlineMom

"For your convenience, a 15% gratuity will be added to the purchase price of each service."

I think that should say "For our convenience ...

OnlineMom · #7 (**permalink**) March 2nd, 2006, 06:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Irish Shark

Quote:

Originally Posted by OnlineMom

"For your convenience, a 15% gratuity will be added to the purchase price of each service."

I think that should say "For our convenience ...

Amen!

Magnolia Blossom · #8 (**permalink**) March 3rd, 2006, 09:12 AM

My experience is that they automatically add the gratuity, but I always ask. Although, I've pretty much given up on spa services. The rates are so high and the service is not as good as what I get elsewhere. The therapists put in extra long days and do more massages than the industry norm so they're just worn out or are guarding their joints so usually i've found massages to be relaxing but not particularly therapeutic.

I usually get a massage at one of the ports for half the money and more enjoyment.

Oh yeh - the biggest reason I stopped using the ship spas was when the heavy handed sales pitches started a few years back. Even when I've been upfront before the massage and when I booked they still persisted. Needless to say, then they got no tip.