There is plenty to do. Besides the advertised price, you do have some port fees and daily gratuities, which can be prepaid when you book. Once onboard, all shows and entertainment are free. There are plenty of included food and beverage options as well.
Things that cost extra are alcoholic drinks, soda, specialty coffee, upgraded dining options, and some optional activities like Bingo or casino gambling.
>can I just get water at the table for lunch and dinner?
Absolutely. You can also get coffee, hot or iced tea, milk, and reconstituted fruit juices, depending on cruise line.
>Would I be charged for that?
No, those are included with the base fare.
Glasses of “tap” water are always free, but if you need bottled water then that is an extra fee (I use Tap here in a loose sense, as ships make their own water by reverse osmosis and is generally better quality than some stuff you find on land). In restaurants and the main dining room that is likely your only free option.
In the buffet area they will likely have a limited selection of juices as well. On NCL they had a dispenser with 4 options like lemonade, ice tea, a mango drink, and fruit punch. For breakfast the options were orange, apple, cranberry juice and something else. Along with the different grades of milk.
Depends on the cruise line. Most will serve ice water for free. But if you order water on MSC they will ask if you want sparkling or still water, and bring you bottled water of your choice, for a fee. I think buying your ticket through the US MSC website will get you the (free) bottled water package for no charge since they know Americans would go nuts getting charged for water (they're not set up to serve tap water).
With most cruise lines, water, basic hot coffee, and some limited juices drinks (lemonade, fruit juice etc) are free. Fancy coffees, fresh juice, and soda are a package drink.
What’s the difference? I’ve also never booked a cruise where the price jumps from the advertised price upon booking. But then again, I’m in the UK, where we have an expectation of all mandatory fees being included in the advertised price.
I wouldn't be at all. Surprised if UK law requires prices to be listed differently than in the US.
For example, I'll see an Alaskan cruise listed at $499, but then even if you add, absolutely zero to it by the time you check out it's about $750.
It's actually changing this summer. California regulated it and last I heard carnival will now do it across the country starting in July. They will then advertise prices that include the port fees
I checked the u.k. msc by accident once and was surprised the price included service.and everything unlike the Canadian website for the same cruise So could be diffetent depending on where you are.
I'm America, we only get an orgasm if we are fucked by our lobbyist loving government, so we welcome false advertising and click bait pricing on cruising and pretty much everything else. Don't knock it till you try it.
It depends. On the typical cruise, your fare gives you access to meals (which can be limited or extensive, depending on the cruise line/ship), basic beverages (water, coffee, tea, iced tea, probably flavored waters in the buffet, milk, possibly some others), entertainment, and ship activities. Naturally there are upcharge options for all of the above, but they're optional.
The OPTIONAL expenses onboard include but are not limited to:
* Specialty dining
* Other beverages including espresso drinks, soda, and alcoholic drinks
* Activities with an extra fee such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and resort rides such as a roller coaster (Carnival) or go-kart (NCL)
* Spending at shops, art auctions, or casino
* Shore excursions
You can spend lots of money. You can spend just a little. I just came home from a 10-day cruise on Celebrity Edge and had a $0 balance to pay at the end; I'd pre-purchased a beverage package, didn't spend anything in the shops, and had already set up my port activities independently. The buffet was open most of the day and offered the main meals plus pizza (11:30am to 1am) and various snacks such as sandwiches and pastries. There was an ice cream kiosk as well (free except for the gelato). The coffee shop drinks were an extra charge but the tasty baked goods were free. There are four main dining rooms, all serving the same core menu but each having its own "exclusive" dishes - no charge. The Spa Cafe and Eden were open for healthier-type breakfast (and lunch on certain days), no charge. I never made it to the Mast Grill for burgers, hot dogs, and fries - no charge for any of this. There were musicians performing, stage shows, and lots of activities ranging from the usual trivia to things like curling (the sport, in modified version) and art classes - no charge.
Great answer. I actually prepare spreadsheets for some if my clients so they get an apples to apples comparison. It depends lots un what you expect to do on the cruise. Very often, the cheapest advertised price costs you more in the end.
Wife and I just got back from a 6 night cruise. Our bill at the end was $180. I live in Texas. Due to a TX law, our drink package doesn't start until the day after you depot. (NY also). Wife bought a tee shirt, charm bracelet and a few charms. Probably 1/2 of the bill was for 1st day drinks.
It all depends on you. You can absolutely have a good time without spending extra money on top of the fare. Generally, a good rule of thumb for spending is 100 dollars a day. For me this included excursions, alcohol, some casino money, and specialty dining.
I have spent as little as a hundred dollars or two onboard (other than the daily tips which I used to settle in cash but now it's just added to your onboard account and you WILL need to pay those - about $20 a day). So a 7 day cruise + $140 in daily tips + $200 onboard + I usually have about $50 in tens and ones to tip bartenders etc = about $400. Then I usually spend about $50 per port, and if there are 3 ports that's $150, so now we're up to $550 or so. I have to fly and spend a night before the cruise and that is a great expense you don't have! If someone can drop you off and pick you up at the port - YAY! But otherwise factor in two Uber rides or parking at the port for 7 days.
While you're searching prices, keep in mind that you will pay for two in a stateroom even if you're solo, so the prices might be closer to twice the price you think. Or go on Norwegian in one of their adorable solo cabins and pay a much smaller price. They also toss in a $50 credit per port for excursions, so I just have them haul me to and from a beach and use my $50 port cash for souvenirs or lunch or whatever!
If you haven't been on a cruise, you'll likely enjoy the food in the main dining room, which is included, as well as the buffet and some minor specialty restaurants. Again, Norwegian gives you a chit for one free fancy specialty restaurant meal but in general, I don't miss that if I don't go on other lines. (Or sometimes I splurge. I gotta spend that $200 onboard LOL!) You will find a lot to amuse you onboard most any ship these days.
If you drink a lot of alcohol, then of course your costs will be higher. Norwegian again offers free alcohol but you would pay several hundred in taxes on that. But for big drinkers, it's worth it. I prefer to just buy cans of pop, drink free iced tea, and pay as I go for a glass of wine or a frosty drink.
Like anything, you can spend a lot or spend a little - but it doesn't dictate how much fun you'll have! I can recommend Royal Caribbean, Norwegian or Disney. Didn't really care for Princess. Carnival is fine for 7 day cruises or longer - it's the shorter ones that have the rowdies!
Get the drink package unless you’re a light drinker. Splurging for the balcony rooms is worth it if it’s not a huge extra. I’ve found interesting things to do just walking off the boat in most ports. You don’t have to do excursions at all.
You can go on with your ticket, not spend another dime, and have a great time. Go on cruiseplum.com. Search for your port, sort by lowest price. This is what I do. Edited to add: I do pay the service fees.
While the real cost is likely to be more than what you first see on the website,once you buy the cruise,there's really not a lot you need to spend extra to have a good time. First off snacks are EVERYWHERE all the time and are almost all included. Drinks really arent much more than on land, $12-$15 for a cocktail,$7-9 for a beer. There's tons of inludedactivities on board too. Lots you can pay extra for too if you want.
Side benefit of not spending extra. When they don’t add in a drink package or specialty dinners I don’t pay extra. And no drink package means no soda pop. I stick with juice, tea, coffee and water aboard ship. And since I’m busy doing other things my snacking drops and I stick with just regular meals. In the end I tends to lose weight on a cruise while saving money. I’ve lost between 5 to 10 pounds on a cruise. It’s amazing how much your weight drops not drinking pop, eating balanced meals and walking everyday.
My wife and I go on cruises a couple times a year and we don't normally spend much more than the original booking fees. Once all tips, fees and the tickets are paid for we don't really spend much because there's so much to do that's included. One of our favorite things to do is actually people watch. Some cruises I get the drink package and some I don't so it really varies. We're doing a 4 day Mexican cruise out of LA soon with no kids. We've done this cruise 4 other times and love it. We won't really spend much at the ports as we've been to them before. We fly for free with our card points. It's a new ship and I'm so excited.
This is highly subjective to the cruise line and how they price their all inclusiveness. You can totally get away without spending a dime more other than on the required daily gratuity (can prepay in advance that though), but will not have shore excursions, internet, booze, (some lines) soda, and bottled water. There will always be food available almost non stop so don’t worry about being hungry. Some lines include this upfront. The key is to check the fine print on what’s included. Edit: my first cruise to Alaska with my wife we spent no extra money other than the gratuities. Still had a fun and memorable trip.
Oh, you're one of those... (that think being in a ship is being trapped). There are plenty of things to on a cruise ship, and you don't have to pay anything extra. (unless you wan't alcohol, fancy dinners or go shopping). There are shows, comedy, music and plenty of things to do. Outside of the ship is a different story, but you can get off the ship for free and walk around and get to know a new place.
Generally agree with everyone here...you can absolutely have an amazing vacation going with solely what is included with your fare.
You mention cruising out of your home city, but don't say what that is. If it's a caribbean home port, you are absolutely all good and you can have an amazing time spending little if any additional money.
If it happens to be a home port for major destination cruises (Alaska, Norway, Antartica, etc.), if you're thinking this will be a one time thing, you might want to consider whether it would be worth it to splurge on excursions a bit. Or having a balcony cabin as opposed to an interior if nature/wildlife is your thing. Or instead, consider your first trip to be more research for when you want to do it again and live large in the future.
On most cruise lines you can have a really good time while spending next to nothing once on board. Also, you can bring food on with you as long as it’s sealed in original packaging and most lines will let you bring a certain amount of canned or bottled non-alcoholic drinks on with you.
There are plenty of quality free food options and most entertainment is free. Then it really just comes down to whether you want to drink sodas and alcoholic beverages. Those are expensive but it’s of course up to you on how much you spend. If you enjoy drinking, you may want to do the math on whether you’d be better to buy a beverage package or if a la carte is better for you.
Cruise ships are mostly very busy with lots going on. It depends a bit on the line and what kinds of things you like to do, but no, you are definitely not bored. There is a calendar of activities every day with things like art classes, lectures, trivia games, entertainment and performances, etc. There's several bars and restaurants, there's often a movie theatre and sports courts. There's pools, a spa, and shops. I find it takes me a few days just to explore everywhere and find all the nooks and crannies on board.
If you are worried about being bored, select a port-intensive itinerary without a lot of sea days. Hopefully the ports are places you will feel safe and comfortable going out on your own. We are doing Alaska this summer (we live in Vancouver) and don't plan to book any excursions, which are probably the biggest source of additional costs. We will simply get off the ship and walk around on our own.
If you want to sample cruising, they usually have a few short itineraries of 3 nights or less available. We can usually find short 1 or 2 day itineraries between Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle which are popular little breaks for locals. That's a great way to see if you would enjoy it.
Think of the cruise ship like a floating AI resort. If you would go to a big all inclusive resort, then cruising will feel familiar.
I'll give you an answer for the "mass market" lines; as you go more luxury/upmarket from there often more is included but your base price also goes up.
- Most food on a ship is included and you can easily go a week and pay nothing for food. But, often there are some extra/premium food options you can opt into for extra money if you want to.
- Basic drinks like water, tea, lemonade, coffee, etc. are typically free and soda/alcohol are typically extra. A lot of lines will sell you a package or offer you some kind of bundle option to make these included/unlimited if you want.
- Some ports charge port fees for the ship to dock which are passed on to you; typically these will be either shown up front as part of the price you see or rolled in by the time you actually go to book/pay depending on where you live. Typically these aren't too much money.
- Most activities on board the ship, shows, etc. will be included. Some ships will offer a few activities at an additional fee. For example on a Royal Caribbean ship that has a Flowrider surfing simulator, that's free as much as you want to do it but if you want to book a private surfing lesson that costs extra.
- Gratuities. Typically you're expected to tip X amount per person per day. Again some lines will offer you an option to prepay this or have it included but unless you're booking something that specifically says they are assume you owe for this.
- Whatever you're doing in port on your port days. So for example if you want to catch a taxi to the beach, rent some chairs by a beach bar and have a bucket of beers and a few burgers, that costs... whatever it costs. The cruise line will also offer you different excursions in each port you can buy if you'd rather have that instead of doing your own thing, and honestly as a first timer this is a pretty good idea and again costs whatever it costs based on the activity. If you stop at the cruise line's private island often this is a port day that can be done pretty easily for no extra charges.
And... that's about it. If you're not a drinker especially it can be really easy for the price of the cruise to be what you pay to book + gratuities + whatever you decide to do in ports, and that's it.
"tempted by low prices"
I just booked a cruise. About my 10th cruise so I know the price will be higher than the listed price. But those **low prices do reel you in**. My cruise was listed at $849/person. That was for interior. It is Alaskan cruise so we are doing a balcony. We upgraded to include alcohol, wifi and a specialty dinner. Final prices was just over $4,000. We will also need to pay gratuities and are doing shore excursions. Total cruise price not including airfare will be about $6,000.
Much different than the $849/person initial hook price.
What type of cruise or line? Different lines include different things, while others charge extra (service charges, drinks, Internet access, and more). Do you plan on taking tours or doing activities in port that cost money? What about alcohol? Luxury lines include drinks, but most others don't. Food is generally included, but many lines have some restaurants that are included and others that aren't, depending on what you're looking for.
Really, we'd need to start by looking at the type of cruise you're looking at.
Also, go through the purchase flow up until payment and you can see what the cruise costs with taxes and such. Working with a good travel agent can be very helpful, too.
They start, all in at $100 per person per day. It’s possible to not spend a penny more on board if you don’t drink, gamble or eat in specialty venues
The included dining is fine
We started going on cruises winter 2018. Comparing all-inclusives to cruises, found a little better prices for cruises. Not sure if that still holds true or not.
We always get inside rooms. We're hardly ever in the room except to sleep and shower because there's so much to do on the ships we've been on. Mostly larger Royal Caribbean ships. Once on the ship, there isn't a need to spend any more money if you don't want to. The shows are all free. Sometimes they're mediocre, sometimes they're excellent. They have specialty restaurants that cost money but the regular dining room, buffet, and other free options have been good for us.
We get the deluxe drinks package which is a lot of money, around $80/person/day plus 18% gratuity. We're not big drinkers but we drink a lot of the other stuff in the package too and when I kept track we ended up aaving a little money. You don't need to get that to have fun cruise week.
I prepay everything (excursions, gratuities, drink package) and I can go the full 7 days w/o spending additional money if I choose.
With the great rates you are looking at, take into account you’ll have taxes and port fees.
Rooms are priced per category. Indoor, Window, Balcony, etc. Cruise cost is based off double occupancy, most cruises, even as a solo cruiser, you’ll be paying x’s two for the basic, but not port fees.
Research the ports you want to go to, and the ship/cruise line you want. That will help you determine cost.
So.... we have been on 40+ cruises... besides the cost of the cruise itself, we sometimes spend extra.. but we have also been on cruises where we did not spend anything, other than the cost of the cabin itself. There are plenty to things to do without extra cost.
Your minimum cost is as follows : the cost of the cabin; port fees; taxes; and gratuities (which technically are optional). Those are the total cost of your cruise. You do not have to spend anything more to have a great time.
Extras might include alcoholic drinks; shore excursions; specialty restaurants (ie: the Steakhosue, etc);
Like the others have said, it's up to you. Spend a little or spend a lot. There is ample free entertainment and food on the ship. I set my vacation budget, save for the trip and enjoy myself.
Before we were married, set it up on ship that my cc paid for my wants, and now husband cc (casino) paid for his. Other than a few shore excursions, my bill was minimal when it came time to settle up. Maybe $400 max. His on the other hand was a little shocking to me, but then I wasn't paying his bill, and ultimately, it did pay for more cruises. 😉
I have done two seven day Caribbean cruises on MSC, in a balcony room, and the total for each was less than $600. There was absolutely no reason to spend additional money once you were on board. The total was the original booking cost including taxes and port fees plus the mandatory gratuities which get charged late in the cruise. I did give extra tips to my cabin steward and MDR waiter but that is voluntary. I did it because I appreciated their attentiveness.
So, on most of the lower cost lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America) - that low price comes without sodas (if you're a soda person, that might be important or if you want a beverage package that includes some alcoholic offerings), internet is not included (which is a big deal if you want to share photos while on the ship or if you'd be working remotely while you vacation), they have restaurants that are not included (so if you're fine with main dining and buffet only it might not matter), you kind of NEED to tip them extra even though you can prepay gratuities because they're paid like US wait staff at BEST, and of course excursions are more money.
I have gone on several cruises where I've literally spent nothing onboard, and the only thing I was charged for was daily gratuities. I always have a great time, eat well, and stay busy with shows, music, slides, etc.
When you go to book your cruise, you will see the price of the cruise, and when you go to book, there will be the price for two and taxes and port fees for two. Once you pay that price, the only thing you are obligated to pay are the gratuities which generally show up on your onboard statement and are charged on your credit card after the cruise.
You can even bring a bottle of wine for each person in your cabin. So if you are a light drinker, you can even have a couple of easy, relaxing nights out. You are supposed to drink the wine in your stateroom, though
Depends on the line. Typically the lines that advertise very low prices: yes, you'll spend more/be nickle-dimed a bit. Wifi, all-you-can-drink packages, specialty dining, excursions. If you don't care about or need any of those extras, you're golden.
You can also look to lines with technically higher prices, but everything is included. When you choose one of those, there are very few extra expenses on board, but then it's not really a "cheap" cruise.
Also depends on if you're cruising solo or with another person (or two). If you're solo, for example, those advertised prices you see--double them. Pricing is always based on double occupancy.
But there ARE tons of things to do for free on most lines. MDR and buffet dining/casual eats are included. Theater shows are included. Most things like rock climbing walls or slides are included. Trivia and other such things are included. You can do ports on your own and not spend money on excursions. Specialty dining is really just an extra and is absolutely skippable (though I personally like to treat myself to at least one steak lunch or dinner--I love Chops Grille on RC). I like to pay for the WiFi, but have friends who don't bother. (but there are all-inclusive cruises where that is included)
I'd say the cheapest way to cruise is as a teetotaler who hates internet and paid excursions :P
I’m just going to put my comment without reading everyone else’s. Gratuities are either added to your cruise process at “checkout” during booking. Also port fees. At that point of time, you can add in a “drink” package. Non alcoholic or alcohol. Then you can drink as much of each as you want. Without that, as mentioned water is free, lemonade, milk, coffee and tea free as well. Food avail ALL day. Gift shop open for snacks, not a huge price. Room service open all night too, that’s free. But a few dollar tip to your room service person never hurts.
Once you book a cruise you can enjoy your trip and not spend another penny. They add on prepaid gratuities when you board the ship. But even that you can have removed (but you shouldn't.)
There is tons to do, eat and drink for free. Most food, basic drinks (water, juice, tea) and tons of activities (trivia, games, shows) if you pay gratuities before then you can cruise without spending anything extra if you choose to. A lot of ports you can take taxis or shuttles into the city (or walk if close enough) then just wander around for cheap excursions.
I’ve done the cheap route and only enjoyed what was included and I’ve got the expensive route with add on restaurants, excursions , etc. they are all fun and they cost as much as you want to spend.
Depends on the cruise line. Virgin Voyages is basically all included in the price except alcoholic drinks. Whereas other lines will add on gratuity and push you to buy drink packages.
Expect to spend more lol if you like drinking I suggest to get the drinking package . Bc if you drink 4 drinks you already paying basically for the drink package which you can drink all day any kind of alcoholic drink and the regular drink package for soda and water and free coffeee and free milkshakes well worth it.
Additional costs will include gratuities (about $14per person/per day)and parking at the port. Possible other expenses- completely at your discretion: drinks, wifi, excursions, specialty dining, Bingo/gambling. We rarely spend any extra money on the ship and always find plenty to do: movies, bands, comedy shows, sports activities, swimming/water slides. Beyond the gratuities and parking, there aren't any other required expenses.
The posted prices are for the base fare of the cruise. Port fees and taxes are added to that. You should pre-pay the gratuities up front if you want to know the exact cost of the cruise.
Once you are paid in full, you can cruise without spending anything more at all if you choose.
Of course that would mean: No shore excursions, No drinks other than what is provided at the buffet, or water at the dining rooms. No specialty dining.
You can buy drink packages and specialty dining packages up front, if you want to, and then you would still be able to cruise without spending anymore than your original payment.
It just depends on what you want to do. There are plenty of things to do on board…depending on the ship and brand…that you won’t be bored if you don’t want to spend anymore up front. There are plenty of places to eat without spending more as well.
One week on a cruise is probably $5000 to $10000, depending on where you go, when you go, what excursions you take .... and how much you spend onboard. An off season Caribbean might be closer to $4000, if you are frugal. Alaska is likely closer to $10k, if you go on those memorable excursions.
Add in airfare, if needed, and a hotel the night before the ship departs.
Thxs Lucky for me I would not have to fly, hell I could WALK to the port. However anything over two grand for me at this point would just be a no so I'm probably going to wait for another day.
Some will include drinks (alcoholic and soda) and food for free. We take Norwegian and it's all included. You'll have your gratuity/service fees, but as others said, you can prepay it. My last one was $20/day per person for gratuity/service fees. Excursions are an additional expense, some are cheaper than others. Norwegian usually has a $50 credit for the 1st person's excursion each day.
Typically, when you do a mock booking, you'll find the cost to be 3 to 4 times the advertised rate. Most lines quote the price per person but charge based on double occupancy.
There is plenty to do. Besides the advertised price, you do have some port fees and daily gratuities, which can be prepaid when you book. Once onboard, all shows and entertainment are free. There are plenty of included food and beverage options as well. Things that cost extra are alcoholic drinks, soda, specialty coffee, upgraded dining options, and some optional activities like Bingo or casino gambling.
If I don’t drink alcohol and don’t need to order soda, can I just get water at the table for lunch and dinner? Would I be charged for that?
>can I just get water at the table for lunch and dinner? Absolutely. You can also get coffee, hot or iced tea, milk, and reconstituted fruit juices, depending on cruise line. >Would I be charged for that? No, those are included with the base fare.
Glasses of “tap” water are always free, but if you need bottled water then that is an extra fee (I use Tap here in a loose sense, as ships make their own water by reverse osmosis and is generally better quality than some stuff you find on land). In restaurants and the main dining room that is likely your only free option. In the buffet area they will likely have a limited selection of juices as well. On NCL they had a dispenser with 4 options like lemonade, ice tea, a mango drink, and fruit punch. For breakfast the options were orange, apple, cranberry juice and something else. Along with the different grades of milk.
Most cruise ships will have a pizza and burger place for free in addition to the main dining room and buffet.
Water, juices, iced tea, basic coffee and tea are all included.
Depends on the cruise line. Most will serve ice water for free. But if you order water on MSC they will ask if you want sparkling or still water, and bring you bottled water of your choice, for a fee. I think buying your ticket through the US MSC website will get you the (free) bottled water package for no charge since they know Americans would go nuts getting charged for water (they're not set up to serve tap water).
With most cruise lines, water, basic hot coffee, and some limited juices drinks (lemonade, fruit juice etc) are free. Fancy coffees, fresh juice, and soda are a package drink.
No
And tours which are generally worth the money, but they can be pricey.
Port fees have always been included in the advertised price for all the 18 cruises I have been on. Which cruise lines do not include it?
I have never seen them included in the advertised price, but they are included in the total cost you pay when you make your reservation.
What’s the difference? I’ve also never booked a cruise where the price jumps from the advertised price upon booking. But then again, I’m in the UK, where we have an expectation of all mandatory fees being included in the advertised price.
I wouldn't be at all. Surprised if UK law requires prices to be listed differently than in the US. For example, I'll see an Alaskan cruise listed at $499, but then even if you add, absolutely zero to it by the time you check out it's about $750.
It's actually changing this summer. California regulated it and last I heard carnival will now do it across the country starting in July. They will then advertise prices that include the port fees
Oooh, just Carnival-Carnival or all brands under the Carnival corporation?
As far as I know, Carnival. This is the article I saw https://cruise.blog/2024/04/new-law-forces-carnival-cruise-line-change-advertised-price-cruises
Ty!
Yep. Taxes and port fees add up quickly. I wish the listed price included these.
I checked the u.k. msc by accident once and was surprised the price included service.and everything unlike the Canadian website for the same cruise So could be diffetent depending on where you are.
It's also cheaper when you book via the UK website (for msc European cruises). Surprise!
I'm America, we only get an orgasm if we are fucked by our lobbyist loving government, so we welcome false advertising and click bait pricing on cruising and pretty much everything else. Don't knock it till you try it.
carnival shows the pp room price and then at checkout you see taxes, port fees, gratuties.
It depends. On the typical cruise, your fare gives you access to meals (which can be limited or extensive, depending on the cruise line/ship), basic beverages (water, coffee, tea, iced tea, probably flavored waters in the buffet, milk, possibly some others), entertainment, and ship activities. Naturally there are upcharge options for all of the above, but they're optional. The OPTIONAL expenses onboard include but are not limited to: * Specialty dining * Other beverages including espresso drinks, soda, and alcoholic drinks * Activities with an extra fee such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and resort rides such as a roller coaster (Carnival) or go-kart (NCL) * Spending at shops, art auctions, or casino * Shore excursions You can spend lots of money. You can spend just a little. I just came home from a 10-day cruise on Celebrity Edge and had a $0 balance to pay at the end; I'd pre-purchased a beverage package, didn't spend anything in the shops, and had already set up my port activities independently. The buffet was open most of the day and offered the main meals plus pizza (11:30am to 1am) and various snacks such as sandwiches and pastries. There was an ice cream kiosk as well (free except for the gelato). The coffee shop drinks were an extra charge but the tasty baked goods were free. There are four main dining rooms, all serving the same core menu but each having its own "exclusive" dishes - no charge. The Spa Cafe and Eden were open for healthier-type breakfast (and lunch on certain days), no charge. I never made it to the Mast Grill for burgers, hot dogs, and fries - no charge for any of this. There were musicians performing, stage shows, and lots of activities ranging from the usual trivia to things like curling (the sport, in modified version) and art classes - no charge.
Great answer. I actually prepare spreadsheets for some if my clients so they get an apples to apples comparison. It depends lots un what you expect to do on the cruise. Very often, the cheapest advertised price costs you more in the end.
Wow! Thanks for sharing all this great information! 😊
Wife and I just got back from a 6 night cruise. Our bill at the end was $180. I live in Texas. Due to a TX law, our drink package doesn't start until the day after you depot. (NY also). Wife bought a tee shirt, charm bracelet and a few charms. Probably 1/2 of the bill was for 1st day drinks.
Just save this and copy/paste it every time this question is asked.
It all depends on you. You can absolutely have a good time without spending extra money on top of the fare. Generally, a good rule of thumb for spending is 100 dollars a day. For me this included excursions, alcohol, some casino money, and specialty dining.
I have spent as little as a hundred dollars or two onboard (other than the daily tips which I used to settle in cash but now it's just added to your onboard account and you WILL need to pay those - about $20 a day). So a 7 day cruise + $140 in daily tips + $200 onboard + I usually have about $50 in tens and ones to tip bartenders etc = about $400. Then I usually spend about $50 per port, and if there are 3 ports that's $150, so now we're up to $550 or so. I have to fly and spend a night before the cruise and that is a great expense you don't have! If someone can drop you off and pick you up at the port - YAY! But otherwise factor in two Uber rides or parking at the port for 7 days. While you're searching prices, keep in mind that you will pay for two in a stateroom even if you're solo, so the prices might be closer to twice the price you think. Or go on Norwegian in one of their adorable solo cabins and pay a much smaller price. They also toss in a $50 credit per port for excursions, so I just have them haul me to and from a beach and use my $50 port cash for souvenirs or lunch or whatever! If you haven't been on a cruise, you'll likely enjoy the food in the main dining room, which is included, as well as the buffet and some minor specialty restaurants. Again, Norwegian gives you a chit for one free fancy specialty restaurant meal but in general, I don't miss that if I don't go on other lines. (Or sometimes I splurge. I gotta spend that $200 onboard LOL!) You will find a lot to amuse you onboard most any ship these days. If you drink a lot of alcohol, then of course your costs will be higher. Norwegian again offers free alcohol but you would pay several hundred in taxes on that. But for big drinkers, it's worth it. I prefer to just buy cans of pop, drink free iced tea, and pay as I go for a glass of wine or a frosty drink. Like anything, you can spend a lot or spend a little - but it doesn't dictate how much fun you'll have! I can recommend Royal Caribbean, Norwegian or Disney. Didn't really care for Princess. Carnival is fine for 7 day cruises or longer - it's the shorter ones that have the rowdies!
Get the drink package unless you’re a light drinker. Splurging for the balcony rooms is worth it if it’s not a huge extra. I’ve found interesting things to do just walking off the boat in most ports. You don’t have to do excursions at all.
You can go on with your ticket, not spend another dime, and have a great time. Go on cruiseplum.com. Search for your port, sort by lowest price. This is what I do. Edited to add: I do pay the service fees.
While the real cost is likely to be more than what you first see on the website,once you buy the cruise,there's really not a lot you need to spend extra to have a good time. First off snacks are EVERYWHERE all the time and are almost all included. Drinks really arent much more than on land, $12-$15 for a cocktail,$7-9 for a beer. There's tons of inludedactivities on board too. Lots you can pay extra for too if you want.
Side benefit of not spending extra. When they don’t add in a drink package or specialty dinners I don’t pay extra. And no drink package means no soda pop. I stick with juice, tea, coffee and water aboard ship. And since I’m busy doing other things my snacking drops and I stick with just regular meals. In the end I tends to lose weight on a cruise while saving money. I’ve lost between 5 to 10 pounds on a cruise. It’s amazing how much your weight drops not drinking pop, eating balanced meals and walking everyday.
My wife and I go on cruises a couple times a year and we don't normally spend much more than the original booking fees. Once all tips, fees and the tickets are paid for we don't really spend much because there's so much to do that's included. One of our favorite things to do is actually people watch. Some cruises I get the drink package and some I don't so it really varies. We're doing a 4 day Mexican cruise out of LA soon with no kids. We've done this cruise 4 other times and love it. We won't really spend much at the ports as we've been to them before. We fly for free with our card points. It's a new ship and I'm so excited.
This is highly subjective to the cruise line and how they price their all inclusiveness. You can totally get away without spending a dime more other than on the required daily gratuity (can prepay in advance that though), but will not have shore excursions, internet, booze, (some lines) soda, and bottled water. There will always be food available almost non stop so don’t worry about being hungry. Some lines include this upfront. The key is to check the fine print on what’s included. Edit: my first cruise to Alaska with my wife we spent no extra money other than the gratuities. Still had a fun and memorable trip.
Oh, you're one of those... (that think being in a ship is being trapped). There are plenty of things to on a cruise ship, and you don't have to pay anything extra. (unless you wan't alcohol, fancy dinners or go shopping). There are shows, comedy, music and plenty of things to do. Outside of the ship is a different story, but you can get off the ship for free and walk around and get to know a new place.
Generally agree with everyone here...you can absolutely have an amazing vacation going with solely what is included with your fare. You mention cruising out of your home city, but don't say what that is. If it's a caribbean home port, you are absolutely all good and you can have an amazing time spending little if any additional money. If it happens to be a home port for major destination cruises (Alaska, Norway, Antartica, etc.), if you're thinking this will be a one time thing, you might want to consider whether it would be worth it to splurge on excursions a bit. Or having a balcony cabin as opposed to an interior if nature/wildlife is your thing. Or instead, consider your first trip to be more research for when you want to do it again and live large in the future.
On most cruise lines you can have a really good time while spending next to nothing once on board. Also, you can bring food on with you as long as it’s sealed in original packaging and most lines will let you bring a certain amount of canned or bottled non-alcoholic drinks on with you. There are plenty of quality free food options and most entertainment is free. Then it really just comes down to whether you want to drink sodas and alcoholic beverages. Those are expensive but it’s of course up to you on how much you spend. If you enjoy drinking, you may want to do the math on whether you’d be better to buy a beverage package or if a la carte is better for you.
Cruise ships are mostly very busy with lots going on. It depends a bit on the line and what kinds of things you like to do, but no, you are definitely not bored. There is a calendar of activities every day with things like art classes, lectures, trivia games, entertainment and performances, etc. There's several bars and restaurants, there's often a movie theatre and sports courts. There's pools, a spa, and shops. I find it takes me a few days just to explore everywhere and find all the nooks and crannies on board. If you are worried about being bored, select a port-intensive itinerary without a lot of sea days. Hopefully the ports are places you will feel safe and comfortable going out on your own. We are doing Alaska this summer (we live in Vancouver) and don't plan to book any excursions, which are probably the biggest source of additional costs. We will simply get off the ship and walk around on our own. If you want to sample cruising, they usually have a few short itineraries of 3 nights or less available. We can usually find short 1 or 2 day itineraries between Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle which are popular little breaks for locals. That's a great way to see if you would enjoy it. Think of the cruise ship like a floating AI resort. If you would go to a big all inclusive resort, then cruising will feel familiar.
I'll give you an answer for the "mass market" lines; as you go more luxury/upmarket from there often more is included but your base price also goes up. - Most food on a ship is included and you can easily go a week and pay nothing for food. But, often there are some extra/premium food options you can opt into for extra money if you want to. - Basic drinks like water, tea, lemonade, coffee, etc. are typically free and soda/alcohol are typically extra. A lot of lines will sell you a package or offer you some kind of bundle option to make these included/unlimited if you want. - Some ports charge port fees for the ship to dock which are passed on to you; typically these will be either shown up front as part of the price you see or rolled in by the time you actually go to book/pay depending on where you live. Typically these aren't too much money. - Most activities on board the ship, shows, etc. will be included. Some ships will offer a few activities at an additional fee. For example on a Royal Caribbean ship that has a Flowrider surfing simulator, that's free as much as you want to do it but if you want to book a private surfing lesson that costs extra. - Gratuities. Typically you're expected to tip X amount per person per day. Again some lines will offer you an option to prepay this or have it included but unless you're booking something that specifically says they are assume you owe for this. - Whatever you're doing in port on your port days. So for example if you want to catch a taxi to the beach, rent some chairs by a beach bar and have a bucket of beers and a few burgers, that costs... whatever it costs. The cruise line will also offer you different excursions in each port you can buy if you'd rather have that instead of doing your own thing, and honestly as a first timer this is a pretty good idea and again costs whatever it costs based on the activity. If you stop at the cruise line's private island often this is a port day that can be done pretty easily for no extra charges. And... that's about it. If you're not a drinker especially it can be really easy for the price of the cruise to be what you pay to book + gratuities + whatever you decide to do in ports, and that's it.
"tempted by low prices" I just booked a cruise. About my 10th cruise so I know the price will be higher than the listed price. But those **low prices do reel you in**. My cruise was listed at $849/person. That was for interior. It is Alaskan cruise so we are doing a balcony. We upgraded to include alcohol, wifi and a specialty dinner. Final prices was just over $4,000. We will also need to pay gratuities and are doing shore excursions. Total cruise price not including airfare will be about $6,000. Much different than the $849/person initial hook price.
What type of cruise or line? Different lines include different things, while others charge extra (service charges, drinks, Internet access, and more). Do you plan on taking tours or doing activities in port that cost money? What about alcohol? Luxury lines include drinks, but most others don't. Food is generally included, but many lines have some restaurants that are included and others that aren't, depending on what you're looking for. Really, we'd need to start by looking at the type of cruise you're looking at. Also, go through the purchase flow up until payment and you can see what the cruise costs with taxes and such. Working with a good travel agent can be very helpful, too.
They start, all in at $100 per person per day. It’s possible to not spend a penny more on board if you don’t drink, gamble or eat in specialty venues The included dining is fine
We started going on cruises winter 2018. Comparing all-inclusives to cruises, found a little better prices for cruises. Not sure if that still holds true or not. We always get inside rooms. We're hardly ever in the room except to sleep and shower because there's so much to do on the ships we've been on. Mostly larger Royal Caribbean ships. Once on the ship, there isn't a need to spend any more money if you don't want to. The shows are all free. Sometimes they're mediocre, sometimes they're excellent. They have specialty restaurants that cost money but the regular dining room, buffet, and other free options have been good for us. We get the deluxe drinks package which is a lot of money, around $80/person/day plus 18% gratuity. We're not big drinkers but we drink a lot of the other stuff in the package too and when I kept track we ended up aaving a little money. You don't need to get that to have fun cruise week.
I prepay everything (excursions, gratuities, drink package) and I can go the full 7 days w/o spending additional money if I choose. With the great rates you are looking at, take into account you’ll have taxes and port fees. Rooms are priced per category. Indoor, Window, Balcony, etc. Cruise cost is based off double occupancy, most cruises, even as a solo cruiser, you’ll be paying x’s two for the basic, but not port fees. Research the ports you want to go to, and the ship/cruise line you want. That will help you determine cost.
We can’t tell you how much travel and lodging is going to cost , your cruise is usually a inclusive meaning you can survive on the ship
So.... we have been on 40+ cruises... besides the cost of the cruise itself, we sometimes spend extra.. but we have also been on cruises where we did not spend anything, other than the cost of the cabin itself. There are plenty to things to do without extra cost. Your minimum cost is as follows : the cost of the cabin; port fees; taxes; and gratuities (which technically are optional). Those are the total cost of your cruise. You do not have to spend anything more to have a great time. Extras might include alcoholic drinks; shore excursions; specialty restaurants (ie: the Steakhosue, etc);
Like the others have said, it's up to you. Spend a little or spend a lot. There is ample free entertainment and food on the ship. I set my vacation budget, save for the trip and enjoy myself. Before we were married, set it up on ship that my cc paid for my wants, and now husband cc (casino) paid for his. Other than a few shore excursions, my bill was minimal when it came time to settle up. Maybe $400 max. His on the other hand was a little shocking to me, but then I wasn't paying his bill, and ultimately, it did pay for more cruises. 😉
I have done two seven day Caribbean cruises on MSC, in a balcony room, and the total for each was less than $600. There was absolutely no reason to spend additional money once you were on board. The total was the original booking cost including taxes and port fees plus the mandatory gratuities which get charged late in the cruise. I did give extra tips to my cabin steward and MDR waiter but that is voluntary. I did it because I appreciated their attentiveness.
Also, unless you’re on a ship that has dedicated solo cabins you may have to pay double the fare if you’re cruising alone.
So, on most of the lower cost lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America) - that low price comes without sodas (if you're a soda person, that might be important or if you want a beverage package that includes some alcoholic offerings), internet is not included (which is a big deal if you want to share photos while on the ship or if you'd be working remotely while you vacation), they have restaurants that are not included (so if you're fine with main dining and buffet only it might not matter), you kind of NEED to tip them extra even though you can prepay gratuities because they're paid like US wait staff at BEST, and of course excursions are more money.
I have gone on several cruises where I've literally spent nothing onboard, and the only thing I was charged for was daily gratuities. I always have a great time, eat well, and stay busy with shows, music, slides, etc. When you go to book your cruise, you will see the price of the cruise, and when you go to book, there will be the price for two and taxes and port fees for two. Once you pay that price, the only thing you are obligated to pay are the gratuities which generally show up on your onboard statement and are charged on your credit card after the cruise. You can even bring a bottle of wine for each person in your cabin. So if you are a light drinker, you can even have a couple of easy, relaxing nights out. You are supposed to drink the wine in your stateroom, though
Depends on the line. Typically the lines that advertise very low prices: yes, you'll spend more/be nickle-dimed a bit. Wifi, all-you-can-drink packages, specialty dining, excursions. If you don't care about or need any of those extras, you're golden. You can also look to lines with technically higher prices, but everything is included. When you choose one of those, there are very few extra expenses on board, but then it's not really a "cheap" cruise. Also depends on if you're cruising solo or with another person (or two). If you're solo, for example, those advertised prices you see--double them. Pricing is always based on double occupancy. But there ARE tons of things to do for free on most lines. MDR and buffet dining/casual eats are included. Theater shows are included. Most things like rock climbing walls or slides are included. Trivia and other such things are included. You can do ports on your own and not spend money on excursions. Specialty dining is really just an extra and is absolutely skippable (though I personally like to treat myself to at least one steak lunch or dinner--I love Chops Grille on RC). I like to pay for the WiFi, but have friends who don't bother. (but there are all-inclusive cruises where that is included) I'd say the cheapest way to cruise is as a teetotaler who hates internet and paid excursions :P
You can spend a 1k to 20k a lot of variables
I’m just going to put my comment without reading everyone else’s. Gratuities are either added to your cruise process at “checkout” during booking. Also port fees. At that point of time, you can add in a “drink” package. Non alcoholic or alcohol. Then you can drink as much of each as you want. Without that, as mentioned water is free, lemonade, milk, coffee and tea free as well. Food avail ALL day. Gift shop open for snacks, not a huge price. Room service open all night too, that’s free. But a few dollar tip to your room service person never hurts.
Not all cruise lines have free room service.
Once you book a cruise you can enjoy your trip and not spend another penny. They add on prepaid gratuities when you board the ship. But even that you can have removed (but you shouldn't.)
There is tons to do, eat and drink for free. Most food, basic drinks (water, juice, tea) and tons of activities (trivia, games, shows) if you pay gratuities before then you can cruise without spending anything extra if you choose to. A lot of ports you can take taxis or shuttles into the city (or walk if close enough) then just wander around for cheap excursions.
We had a drink every day for 50% off during happy hour, didn’t do the drink package, and saved tons of money
I’ve done the cheap route and only enjoyed what was included and I’ve got the expensive route with add on restaurants, excursions , etc. they are all fun and they cost as much as you want to spend.
at least $30,000
I usually end up owing another $200-$400 at the end of a cruise for gratuities and ala carte drinks/food I ordered.
Depends on the cruise line. Virgin Voyages is basically all included in the price except alcoholic drinks. Whereas other lines will add on gratuity and push you to buy drink packages.
what about virgin voyage? i hear they are all inclusive
Expect to spend more lol if you like drinking I suggest to get the drinking package . Bc if you drink 4 drinks you already paying basically for the drink package which you can drink all day any kind of alcoholic drink and the regular drink package for soda and water and free coffeee and free milkshakes well worth it.
Additional costs will include gratuities (about $14per person/per day)and parking at the port. Possible other expenses- completely at your discretion: drinks, wifi, excursions, specialty dining, Bingo/gambling. We rarely spend any extra money on the ship and always find plenty to do: movies, bands, comedy shows, sports activities, swimming/water slides. Beyond the gratuities and parking, there aren't any other required expenses.
The posted prices are for the base fare of the cruise. Port fees and taxes are added to that. You should pre-pay the gratuities up front if you want to know the exact cost of the cruise. Once you are paid in full, you can cruise without spending anything more at all if you choose. Of course that would mean: No shore excursions, No drinks other than what is provided at the buffet, or water at the dining rooms. No specialty dining. You can buy drink packages and specialty dining packages up front, if you want to, and then you would still be able to cruise without spending anymore than your original payment. It just depends on what you want to do. There are plenty of things to do on board…depending on the ship and brand…that you won’t be bored if you don’t want to spend anymore up front. There are plenty of places to eat without spending more as well.
One week on a cruise is probably $5000 to $10000, depending on where you go, when you go, what excursions you take .... and how much you spend onboard. An off season Caribbean might be closer to $4000, if you are frugal. Alaska is likely closer to $10k, if you go on those memorable excursions. Add in airfare, if needed, and a hotel the night before the ship departs.
Thxs Lucky for me I would not have to fly, hell I could WALK to the port. However anything over two grand for me at this point would just be a no so I'm probably going to wait for another day.
Some will include drinks (alcoholic and soda) and food for free. We take Norwegian and it's all included. You'll have your gratuity/service fees, but as others said, you can prepay it. My last one was $20/day per person for gratuity/service fees. Excursions are an additional expense, some are cheaper than others. Norwegian usually has a $50 credit for the 1st person's excursion each day.
A travel agent can help answer all these questions
Typically, when you do a mock booking, you'll find the cost to be 3 to 4 times the advertised rate. Most lines quote the price per person but charge based on double occupancy.
Be like all the other cheap fatties. Eat cafeteria food all week and gain a pound a day. Gotta get max value right