I'll correct my previous comment. I just looked at the Australian Oceania website and it states special offer, free pre paid gratuities plus the choice of credit, shore excursion or beverage package. I'm cynical and the gratuities have probably been factored into the fare because tipping is not part of our culture. Unfortunately, I'm not a fan of the cruises out of Australia, too many sea days. The one cruise we did to Noumea, the bar was packed before we left port. It was a cheaper cruise line and as we say in OZ full of 'yobbos'.