P&O Cruises senior vice-president Paul Ludlow said: “We take huge pride in giving guests a holiday experience that’s truly memorable and special.

“By removing the daily discretionary service charge, P&O Cruises will make enjoying a cruise holiday an effortless experience, knowing that great service comes as standard.”

The line confirmed to TTG that the cost of its holidays would not increase “as a direct result of this change”. It added that prices could be affected by market demand, however.

While tipping staff “is neither required nor expected” guests will be able to choose to do so if they wish.

Currently, the "service reward" appears on guest’s on-board account statement as a service charge. If guests wish to change the amount of service charge they can do that by visiting or contacting reception during their holiday.

P&O confirmed the move would not impact crew pay.

"We pay our crew a fair and appropriate wage for their excellent job they do," said a spokesperson. "This decision will have no impact on the crew’s pay or their reward programme."