Norwegian Increases Daily Service Charges

Prior to February of this year Norwegian Cruise Line hadn't increased its daily service charges since 2009. However, for the second time this year—and effective for all sailings that begin as of August 1, 2015, the new rates are:

• $13.50 per person per day for any category up to a mini-suite stateroom (up from $12.95)
• $15.50 per person per day for any suite category (up from $14.95)

Any guest that has made a booking by July 31, 2015 will have the option of prepaying their service charges at the current rate if done prior to the final payment due date. Guests with existing cruise reservations who have already pre-paid their service charges at the current rate will not be affected.

Norwegian's discretionary daily service charges provide gratuities to key onboard staff who provide guest service during the cruise, including their room steward, restaurant servers, and behind-the-scenes support staff. Guests who are sailing in Suite categories also receive the services of a concierge, butler, and dedicated wait staff.

While the service charge for standard accommodations and mini-suites are on the high end for a mainstream cruise line, the suite service charge is in line with other cruise lines in the mainstream and premium categories, considering that Norwegian's suites have a high level of service with the concierge and butler.

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