Best way to tip guides?

[DisneyKevin]

Land Adventures are different than River Cruises.

 

[sayhello]

@Cinderella's Slipper 2015

The screen shot is from the same section of trip tips & FAQ

Adventures by Disney has taken care of gratuities for all included meals and activities, such as tips for porters, housekeepers, drivers, activity providers, local experts and all crew. Gratuities for your Adventure Guides are also included.

This is the West to East Danube River Cruise

The River cruises are different from all the other ABDs. They're the only ones currently that include the Guides' tips. There will actually be 8 Adventure Guides on the River cruises, you will likely interact with way more than the normal 2 Adventure Guides. I'm assuming they're including the Guides' tips just to make it easier for everyone. Too confusing otherwise!

Sayhello

 

[Little Help]

Great info to find out that the River Cruises DO have a different policy, which is helpful for most people, but could be a challenge for others that may prefer to determine their own percentage. (For those on the River Cruise, I'm sure that you can always give your guides more if you feel they are deserving) I've been on AMA Waterways (not with ABD) and none the Gratuities for any of the drivers/guides/etc were included, which made me miss ABD)

So, even when you think you know, it's always best to check and ask questions--particularly on the Dis Boards. And just like everything, you'll find that fellow travelers have their own reasons and rituals for what they do. Take it all in and adjust to what works best for you.

Please note: I'll be headed out on my 5th Adventure in July. To this point, I've only had guides that have gone above and beyond, so I've always included more than recommended. Being in the Guest Service Industry myself, I do have high expectations, but also understand that life happens and it is important how those challenges are handled.

Wishing everyone safe travels and marvelous memories on your upcoming adventures.

 

[calypso726]

@Cinderella's Slipper 2015

The screen shot is from the same section of trip tips & FAQ

Adventures by Disney has taken care of gratuities for all included meals and activities, such as tips for porters, housekeepers, drivers, activity providers, local experts and all crew. Gratuities for your Adventure Guides are also included.

This is the West to East Danube River Cruise

The river cruises are the exception. This is probably due to the fact that there will be more than 2 guides and you may not always have the same guide for each excursion you do.

The River cruises are different from all the other ABDs. They're the only ones currently that include the Guides' tips. There will actually be 8 Adventure Guides on the River cruises, you will likely interact with way more than the normal 2 Adventure Guides. I'm assuming they're including the Guides' tips just to make it easier for everyone. Too confusing otherwise!

Sayhello

With about 160 passengers and multiple excursions to choose from, I would not be surprised if they realize they may need more than 8 guides. But yes, tipping would be quite the mathematical challenge so I am glad it is included. Odds are though that some of the guides will wind up receiving tips despite the fact they are included. They do such a great job of making the trips extra special.

Great info to find out that the River Cruises DO have a different policy, which is helpful for most people, but could be a challenge for others that may prefer to determine their own percentage. (For those on the River Cruise, I'm sure that you can always give your guides more if you feel they are deserving) I've been on AMA Waterways (not with ABD) and none the Gratuities for any of the drivers/guides/etc were included, which made me miss ABD)

So, even when you think you know, it's always best to check and ask questions--particularly on the Dis Boards. And just like everything, you'll find that fellow travelers have their own reasons and rituals for what they do. Take it all in and adjust to what works best for you.

Please note: I'll be headed out on my 5th Adventure in July. To this point, I've only had guides that have gone above and beyond, so I've always included more than recommended. Being in the Guest Service Industry myself, I do have high expectations, but also understand that life happens and it is important how those challenges are handled.

Wishing everyone safe travels and marvelous memories on your upcoming adventures.

First post! Welcome to the DIS Our 6th Adventure is in July as well. We will be on the DVC member exclusive river cruise. I am sure we will still wind up tipping extra to some of the guides. All of ours have been exceptional and extraordinary. Safe travels to you too!