Aloha VAGOLFERBOB, I have used on board credit for laundry and food, etc, but never for my daily gratuities. This credit of $275.00 will not complete all of my gratuity for the 13 night cruise but it will sure help. I called RCI and they could NOT find the policy anywhere that states that free credit can be used for these tips. They want me to pay up, because this was a discounted cruise ploy to get me to book. Mahalo for your help.