Scandinavia and Russia - Tipping onboard

[RetiredCruiser2015]

We have only cruised Europe once prior to our upcoming Scandanavia and Russia Cruise. When cruising Italy and Greece, we made sure we had plenty of small denomination Euros for tipping on both the ship (we had premium beverage package so made sure to tip a Euro or two for drinks in casino etc) and for excursions.

With so many different countries on the Scandanavia and Russia itinerary, is it acceptable to tip only in US Dollars on ship and on land? Seems like it will be a complex hassle to have small denominations in many different currencies.

Have done a lot of S America and Caribbean, and US dollars are the norm. Not sure about Europe.

Appreciate input from those a whole lot more experienced than us. Thanks!

[cruisestitch]

On ship yes. On land, no.

[RetiredCruiser2015]

On ship yes. On land, no.

 

Thanks! Get local currency for any dining or other non excursion merchants. Local currency or US dollars for the excursion tour providers?

[NantahalaCruiser]

On land they would probably appreciate local currency but will certainly not refuse USD.

[Silhouette2017]

First of all, tipping is generally not expected in Europe. USD is generally not accepted in regular stores (some tourist shops might Accept USD at a terrible Exchange rate). If I was a tour guide i would certainly prefer local currency as tipping in USD would force me to Exchange at generally high commisions.

[Happy Cruiser 6143]

The US$ is the currency aboard all Celebrity ships, no matter where they sail. I have always tipped in US$ on board ship. For shore excursions, use the local currency. I know this cruise is a challenge, due to all the different currencies, but it can be done. Russia will not accept any US$ that are not pristine. We paid for our private excursion with our credit cards. Had a small amount of rubles for miscellaneous purchases which we did not use up. Gave it to the driver and guide as a tip, supplemented by pristine US$.

[Saab4444]

No need to tip in Scandinavia. In Russia USD is much appreciated.

 

 

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[GerScot]

We are doing the same trip this year and did it before in 2015. I will take Dollars and Euros only which will be acceptable in most places. On our last excursion I had roubles for Russia and I asked the guide which she preferred and was told US dollars!