15 of the Best Gifts for Cruise Ship Crew Members
There’s always a smile when crew receive something thoughtful from passengers – a small reminder that people notice the long hours and life spent far from home.
On this page, I’ve curated my recommended best gifts for cruise ship crew, including practical items that make ship life easier, comforting treats from shore, and little tokens that brighten a crew’s day.
As you browse these small but meaningful crew gifts, I hope you’ll find the perfect present to surprise and delight the people who work so hard behind the scenes of every sailing. (Or perhaps you’ll be inspired to pack a few extras in your own bag before boarding.)
The Best Gifts for Cruise Ship Crew Members
Chocolates and candies
What better little treat than a box of chocolates or a packet of candies? These are the kinds of gifts that don’t take up much space but always feel like a sweet indulgence after a long shift.
Because they’re easy to share, chocolates and candies often make their way among crew members, turning into a small moment of joy for more than one person. A simple bar of good chocolate or a bag of sweets can be surprisingly memorable on board.
Snacks and delicacies
One of the most thoughtful ways to surprise crew is with snacks or delicacies that carry a sense of place. It could be something unique from the port you’re visiting, like local biscuits, chips, or a regional specialty, especially appreciated by crew who couldn’t go ashore.
Alternatively, if you know the crew’s nationality, bringing along a familiar snack from their home country can feel extra meaningful. These small bites aren’t just food; they’re little reminders of home or travel that crew rarely get to enjoy while working at sea.
Herbal tea or gourmet coffee
What better pick-me-up for long shifts than a good cup of tea or coffee? Special blends picked up in port feel a world apart from the standard options onboard.
Herbal teas with calming flavours or a pack of gourmet instant coffee can be a small luxury that brightens a crew member’s break and adds a touch of comfort to their routine. It’s a simple treat they’re likely to appreciate sip by sip.
Instant noodles
How about slipping in a pack or two of instant noodles? While they may not be the healthiest option, they’re one of the most practical little gifts for crew. Quick, filling, and comforting, noodles are often the go-to late-night meal or an easy pick-me-up on hectic days when there’s no time to head to the mess.
For many crew, certain brands or tastes from home are an instant hit of nostalgia. It’s a small, inexpensive gift that rarely goes unappreciated.
Data SIM card
How about giving a prepaid SIM card as a truly useful gift? Internet access is one of the biggest challenges for crew, and a SIM loaded with data can help them stay connected with family or catch up online during port days.
A regional or international SIM that works across multiple countries and lasts for weeks is especially practical. Though it’s a pricier gift compared to snacks or chocolates, it’s one that makes a real difference.
Pens and small stationery
How about slipping in a few quality pens or bits of stationery as a practical little gift? Crew often need pens for work, filling out forms, or simply jotting things down, and they always seem to go missing onboard. A smooth-writing pen, a small notebook, or even fun stationery items can be a surprisingly handy treat that won’t take up much space.
Socks
You can’t go wrong with a practical pair of plain socks. Crew spend long hours on their feet, and simple black or dark-coloured socks that can be worn to work are always useful. They may not sound exciting, but they’re one of those everyday essentials that crew can never have too many of – a small, thoughtful gift that’s sure to get plenty of use.
Hand cream or lip balm
It’s always lovely to receive a little indulgence that makes everyday life more comfortable. A small tube of quality hand cream or a nourishing lip balm is especially thoughtful for crew, who often deal with dry air conditioning onboard. Travel-sized, easy-to-carry, and instantly useful, these small luxuries can make a world of difference during busy contracts.
Collectible mugs or bottles
As coffee breaks are a daily ritual at sea, a special mug or reusable bottle can be a thoughtful gift. Some crew use them every day, while others like to collect designs tied to ships or ports they’ve visited.
I once had a senior colleague who saved Starbucks’ city-themed mugs from places he had travelled. Whether used daily or kept as mementos, these items bring both practicality and sentiment.
Books or magazines
When internet is patchy and streaming isn’t an option, a good read can be the perfect escape. A novel or a few magazines makes an engaging gift for crew members, offering an easy way to relax during downtime. Paperbacks and magazines are light enough to carry around the ship, can be shared and swapped with shipmates once finished – a gift that keeps on circulating.
Compact party games
Sometimes the best gift is one that brings people together. Small offline games like Blank Slate, We’re Not Really Strangers, or Incohearent make for entertaining gifts that crew can enjoy with friends during their off hours. They don’t take up much space, can be played in groups, and add a fun change of pace to the routine of ship life.
Gift cards
Not sure exactly what a crew member would love? A gift card is a simple but versatile option. Whether it’s for Amazon, Visa, or even a popular coffee chain, it gives them the freedom to pick something they truly want or need. A gift card is one of the easiest ways to brighten a crew member’s day.
Thank-you notes or postcards
A handwritten note never goes out of style. A simple postcard from your travels or a thoughtful thank-you card can mean a lot to a crew member who spends months away from home. It’s a small but personal gesture that shows real appreciation for their work. A short message of thanks can become a keepsake, brightening their day long after the voyage.
Named compliments in feedback forms
One of the most meaningful gifts for cruise ship crew doesn’t cost a thing: recognition. Most cruise lines give guests a chance to leave feedback, either through surveys, comment cards, or online forms.
Taking the time to mention a crew member by name can make a real difference, helping them get noticed for promotions, awards, or recognition programs that often come with small perks or bonuses. A few words of praise can be one of the best gifts for cruise ship crew, going further than most people realise.
Cash
To wrap up your list of simple crew gifts, consider the timeless option of giving cash. Whether it’s a small tip handed directly or money tucked into a festive red packet, the gesture is simple, flexible, and always appreciated.
Even just a few dollars can go a long way for crew members – it might become a treat in port, something sent home to family, or saved for a personal necessity. While customs vary across regions, cash is one of those gifts that feels universally welcome.
For more cruise inspiration, you might also like my cruise preparation checklist or my guide on what to do if you get seasick on a cruise.
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