Do cruises include everything? Find out what’s covered in your fare, from food to entertainment, and what extras—like drinks, Wi-Fi, excursions, and specialty dining—cost.
When you book a cruise, the fare typically includes your room, meals, and transportation to various ports. Mainstream cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival offer great deals with these basics covered. But here’s the catch: you’ll have to pay extra for some things you might expect, like drinks, specialty dining, or excursions. It's important to know what’s included and what’ll cost you more, so you're not surprised when the bill comes.
If you’re looking for a more inclusive experience, some luxury, and smaller cruise lines bundle more perks in their fares. These lines might include drinks, excursions, and even gratuities, which can make your cruise feel more all-inclusive. But for most people, those extra expenses are part of the deal. So, keep an eye out for what’s covered and factor in those additional costs when planning your cruise budget.
So, the answer is Yes and No!
Cruises cover a lot in the base fare, but they aren’t fully all-inclusive. Your cruise includes a cabin, meals in the main dining areas, basic drinks like water and tea, entertainment, and transportation between ports. That might sound like a great deal, but extras can add up fast. Drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and even crew tips usually cost more. It’s easy to assume everything is covered, but that’s not the case on most mainstream cruise lines.
If you want a trip where almost everything is included, luxury cruise lines offer more. They often throw in alcoholic drinks, specialty coffee, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and even shore excursions. Some go further by bundling airfare and hotel stays before the cruise. These cruises cost more upfront, but they cut down on surprise charges once you're on board. That can be a big plus for travelers who don’t want to think about extra fees while enjoying their vacation.
Some high-end ocean, river, and expedition cruises cover more than mainstream lines, but even they have limits. A few expedition cruises, usually on luxury lines, come closest to an all-inclusive experience. They might include gear for excursions, expert-led tours, and all meals without extra fees. But even then, you’ll want to check the details. Cruise lines each have their way of pricing things, so knowing what’s covered before you book can help you avoid unexpected charges.
When you book a cruise, your fare covers more than just a place to sleep. It includes meals, entertainment, and many onboard activities. You’ll have access to dining rooms, buffets, and casual eateries without extra charges. Live shows, pools, and fitness centers are also included. Some things, like specialty dining, alcohol, and spa treatments, cost extra. Knowing what’s covered helps you enjoy your trip without unexpected fees. Let’s look at what’s included in your cruise fare.
Cruise ships offer a range of cabins, from budget-friendly inside rooms to ocean-view cabins, balcony rooms, and spacious suites. Older ships tend to have fewer balcony rooms, while newer ships give more options. If you book the lowest-priced cabin, you might end up with an obstructed view, where lifeboats or parts of the ship block the window. No matter the type, every cabin comes with a bed, a private bathroom, storage space, and a desk. Housekeeping keeps your room tidy with daily service.
Suites come with extra perks, like priority boarding, bigger living areas, and sometimes even butler service. While inside cabins work well for budget travelers, many cruisers prefer balconies for fresh air and private ocean views. If you like extra space and added benefits, suites offer a more upgraded experience. Just keep in mind that luxury comes at a higher price. The right cabin for you depends on how much time you plan to spend in your room and how much you're willing to pay.
Also Read: How to find the best cabin for my family cruise?
Your cruise fare includes meals at the main dining room, buffet, and casual spots like poolside grills or cafes. Some cruise lines even offer free pizza or snacks at small cafes. These places serve a mix of familiar favorites and new dishes, so you’ll have plenty of choices. If you want a more upscale meal, you can book a table at a specialty restaurant, but that comes with an extra charge. These spots serve everything from steak and seafood to sushi and French cuisine.
Desserts and treats are included too, but there are exceptions. You can usually find free soft-serve ice cream at the buffet or on the pool deck. Some cruise lines also offer scooped ice cream for free, but stand-alone ice cream shops or gelato bars often charge extra. If you're craving a fancy dessert or a custom coffee, you’ll probably have to pay. Checking your cruise line’s dining options before you sail can help you plan your meals without unexpected costs.
Also Read: What are different dining options on a cruise?
Once a free perk on most cruise lines, room service now often comes with a fee. Many ships still offer complimentary continental breakfast, so you can enjoy coffee, pastries, and fruit in your cabin without extra charges. But if you want hot breakfast items or food later in the day, expect to pay a service charge. Some cruise lines waive these fees for guests staying in suites or those who purchase upgraded fare packages.
Each cruise line has different rules, so it’s worth checking in advance. Some charge a flat delivery fee, while others price items individually. A few, like Disney Cruise Line and Holland America, still offer room service at no extra cost. Other lines, like Norwegian and Virgin Voyages, charge a set fee per order. If you like dining in your cabin, choosing a cruise with more free options might be worth it. Otherwise, heading to the buffet or main dining room can save you money.
Most cruises include basic drinks like water, tea, coffee, lemonade, and juices in the buffet. If you’re dining in the main restaurant, you’ll still get free water and a small selection of juices or iced tea. But if you want bottled water, soda, specialty coffee, or alcohol, you’ll have to pay extra. The only major cruise line that includes soda in its base fare is Disney Cruise Line, making it a rare exception.
To save money on drinks, many cruisers buy a beverage package, which covers unlimited soft drinks, specialty coffees, or alcoholic beverages for a daily fee. Some cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or soda on board, but policies vary. If you don’t drink much, buying drinks individually might be cheaper than a package. Checking what’s included ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected charges.
Also Read: How to Choose a Cruise Drink Package?
Most cruise lines include kids’ clubs in the fare, offering supervised activities for different age groups. These programs are packed with games, crafts, and themed events, giving kids plenty to do while parents enjoy some free time. The best part? Most of these activities are free during regular hours. Some lines even have special areas for toddlers with interactive play spaces and trained staff to keep little ones entertained.
While daytime programs are included, late-night group babysitting usually costs extra. Some cruise lines offer in-cabin babysitting, but availability is limited. If you're planning a date night, check the ship’s policies so you know what to expect. Kids' clubs are a great way for children to make new friends and enjoy activities tailored to their interests, all while giving parents a chance to unwind.
Cruise ships have plenty of free entertainment, from Broadway-style shows to comedy acts and live music. Some lines, like Royal Caribbean, even offer unique performances, including ice skating and high-diving shows. Outdoor movie nights are also a popular perk, with some ships offering free popcorn or cozy blankets on chilly evenings.
Daytime entertainment includes trivia games, cooking demos, and dance classes, all at no extra cost. Art auctions often serve complimentary champagne, though buying artwork will cost you. Cruise lines also throw themed parties, like Norwegian’s White-Hot Party, where guests dress in white and dance under the stars. With so many free events, there’s always something to do on board without spending extra money.
Also Read: What type of entertainment is on cruise ships?
Most ships have pools, hot tubs, and sun loungers that are free for all guests. Water parks, splash zones, and giant waterslides are also included on many family-friendly ships. Fitness centers are open to everyone, with access to treadmills, weights, and machines, but certain group classes like yoga or spin sessions usually require an extra fee.
Beyond fitness and pools, many ships offer mini-golf, rock climbing walls, and sports courts at no cost. Carnival even has a free ropes course on some ships. Some areas, like adults-only pools or thermal spa suites, may require a day pass or extra fee. Before boarding, it’s a good idea to check which activities are free and which ones might cost extra so you can plan your time and budget accordingly.
When booking a cruise, the base fare covers many things, but not everything. Some expenses, like drinks, specialty dining, excursions, and gratuities, usually cost extra. While cruise lines advertise all-inclusive experiences, many onboard activities and services come with added fees. Knowing what’s not included can help you budget better and avoid surprises. From spa treatments to Wi-Fi and room service, here’s a look at the extra costs you might face during your cruise vacation.
Most cruise lines have restaurants that aren't included in the base fare. These specialty restaurants serve dishes you won’t find in the main dining room or buffet. Think of high-end steakhouses, sushi bars, and chef’s table experiences. Some focus on international flavors like Italian or French cuisine. These spots require reservations, and you’ll pay per meal or choose a dining package for multiple meals at a discount.
If you don’t book ahead, you can still try to get a table once you're on board. Reservations usually open up 48 hours before sailing, but if you miss that window, visit the restaurant when you board. Many times, they’ll have last-minute availability. Specialty dining isn’t required, but it’s a nice way to enjoy a different dining experience beyond the usual included meals.
Also Read: What are different dining options on a cruise?
If you enjoy drinks like cocktails, wine, or beer, you’ll need to pay for them separately. Cruise lines charge per drink, just like a regular bar, or you can buy a drink package. Packages give unlimited drinks for a flat rate, which can save money if you drink several a day. Keep in mind, if one person in a cabin buys a package, most lines require all adults in that cabin to purchase one too.
Non-alcoholic drinks like soda, specialty coffee, bottled water, and smoothies also cost extra. Some cruise lines offer packages just for soft drinks or coffee. If you drink a lot of lattes or sodas, a package might be worth it. Otherwise, you can stick to the free options like tap water, tea, and basic coffee, usually available at the buffet or dining room.
Also Read: What drinks are free on cruise ships?
Many activities on a cruise ship are free, but some charge an extra fee. Things like go-karts, laser tag, escape rooms, and virtual reality games usually cost per session. Royal Caribbean, for example, has an escape room that costs around $39* per person, while Norwegian Cruise Line’s go-karts cost about $15* per ride.
Some adult-only sundecks or VIP pool areas also require a paid pass. Carnival’s Bolt roller coaster, found on some of its newest ships, costs $15* for two laps. While these activities aren’t necessary, they can add fun to your trip if you’re up for something different. It’s a good idea to check prices before your cruise so you can budget for any extras.
Also Read: 10 Fun Things to do on a Cruise Ship
Cruise ship spas offer massages, facials, and other treatments, but these aren’t included in the base fare. Prices vary, and they can be quite high. If you want a massage or facial but don’t want to pay full price, look for discounts on port days when many passengers are off the ship.
Some ships also have thermal suites with saunas, steam rooms, and heated loungers, but you’ll need a pass to use them. Fitness classes like yoga or cycling also cost extra, while basic gym access is usually free. If you’re interested in spa treatments, it’s best to book early since popular slots fill up fast.
Most cruise lines charge for laundry services, but some offer self-service laundromats where you can wash and dry your clothes for a small fee. These facilities usually have coin-operated machines and detergent available for purchase.
If you’d rather not do your laundry, you can send it out for professional cleaning, pressing, or dry cleaning. Prices vary, and some lines offer a flat-fee laundry bag special during the trip. It’s a good idea to check laundry costs before packing, bringing extra clothes might be cheaper than paying for washing.
Once a free perk, room service now usually comes with a fee. Some cruise lines still offer complimentary continental breakfast, but full meals often have a service charge. Royal Caribbean, for example, charges $7.95 per order, while Norwegian Cruise Line adds a $9.95 fee.
If you’re staying in a suite, you might get free room service as part of the perks. While it’s nice to have breakfast in bed or a late-night snack delivered, the added cost makes it less appealing for everyday dining. Before ordering, check your cruise line’s policy to avoid unexpected charges.
Also Read: Is food free on cruise?
Cruise lines offer guided excursions at each port, but these come at an extra cost. Prices vary depending on the activity. Simple tours, like a bus ride through town, might be under $50, while adventurous excursions, like helicopter rides or scuba diving, can cost several hundred dollars.
If you want to save money, you can book directly with local tour operators or explore on your own. Some ports offer free shuttles into town, but in many cases, you'll need to arrange your transportation. If booking through the cruise line, reserve early, popular tours sell out fast.
Also Read: How far in advance should I book excursions?
Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your bill, covering tips for cabin stewards, dining staff, and other crew members. These fees vary by cruise line but usually range from $14 to $20 per person, per day. You can prepay these before your trip or have them added to your onboard account.
If you receive exceptional service, you can always tip extra in cash. Some passengers prefer handing cash directly to crew members who go above and beyond. While gratuities are technically adjustable, most people leave them as-is since they support the hardworking staff who keep the cruise running smoothly.
Also Read: How do Cruise Ship Gratuities Work?
Want to avoid extra charges on your cruise? While most fares cover the basics such as accommodations, meals in main dining areas, and some entertainment, you can upgrade your experience by choosing a more inclusive fare or adding packages that bundle popular extras.
Many cruise lines offer all-inclusive add-ons to make your trip more seamless. These packages combine things like drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities for one upfront price—sometimes at a discount compared to buying them separately.
For example:
Drink packages are especially popular, giving you an open-bar experience without worrying about individual drink prices. If you plan to drink multiple cocktails, beers, or specialty coffees per day, an all-inclusive package could be a smart investment.
Also Read: What's included in your cruise fare?
If you’ve cruised with the same line multiple times, you might unlock perks through their loyalty program. Higher-tier members can enjoy benefits like:
The best perks come with frequent cruising, so if you plan to sail often, sticking to one cruise line can pay off over time.
Suites cost more than standard cabins, but they often come with luxury perks that add value. Many cruise lines offer "ship-within-a-ship" suite experiences, where suite guests get exclusive areas, priority services, and extra inclusions.
For example:
If you're looking for a high-end cruise with plenty of perks, booking a suite can turn your trip into a more all-inclusive experience.
A cruise fare covers a lot, but not everything. Your cabin, most meals, entertainment, and basic drinks like water, tea, and coffee are usually part of the price. But some things cost extra, like specialty dining, alcoholic drinks, spa treatments, and excursions. Gratuities may also be added to your bill unless you prepay them. While you can enjoy a great trip without paying extra, it helps to plan for added costs if you want extra perks. Knowing what’s included makes budgeting for your trip much easier.
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