This week, the website of Royal Caribbean indicated that as of January 2, 2018 company's daily gratuity charges will go up US$1 per person per day.
Passengers who book before January 2, 2018 can pre-pay gratuities prior to the sailing at the current rate. Those who choose to pay gratuities onboard will be subject to the new rates for cruises departing on/after January 2, 2018, , regardless of when they book.
When the new rates go into effect, passengers will pay US$14.50 per day. Guests staying in a suite will pay US$17.50 per day.