8 Hidden Cruise Costs You Should Prepare for Before Sailing

Embarking on a cruise is a fantastic way to explore the world. You can enjoy luxurious amenities, great food, and breathtaking views. However, the advertised price often doesn’t include all the costs. Hidden cruise costs can surprise you and add up quickly. To help you avoid unexpected expenses, we’ve compiled a guide to 15 hidden cruise costs you should know before sailing.

1. Onboard Gratuities

One of the most common hidden cruise costs is onboard gratuities. These charges cover tips for your cabin steward, dining room staff, and other essential crew members. These gratuities acknowledge the service staff’s hard work but can be an unwelcome surprise if unprepared. Most cruise lines add a daily gratuity charge, usually between $14 and $20 per person.This can add up quickly for families or longer cruises, so it’s important to factor this into your budget. Learn more about prepaying gratuities here.

It’s worth checking if gratuities are included in your fare before you book. Some cruise lines build them into the total cost, while others don’t, leaving you responsible for the additional charge. If gratuities aren’t included, make sure to budget accordingly so that you don’t end up with a surprise at the end of your cruise. One way to ease the cost is to prepay your gratuities before your trip. This can help spread out the cost and eliminate the need to worry about it during your vacation.

Pro Tip: Some cruise lines offer the option to prepay gratuities as part of your booking, which can be helpful for managing your finances.

2. Hidden Cruise Costs: Port Fees and Taxes

Another hidden cost that often catches travelers off guard is port fees and taxes. These are mandatory charges that are typically excluded from the initial cruise fare.Port fees cover docking costs, and taxes support the port’s infrastructure and facilities. Fees range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the itinerary. These fees are added to your final bill, so review the fine print before booking.

Port fees and taxes are fixed costs that must be paid, regardless of your preferences. They can be higher on cruises visiting multiple or remote ports. Include these fees in your budget to avoid surprises at the dock. Knowing the fees ahead of time helps you plan your trip better.

3. Drink Packages

When you book your cruise, you’ll likely see offers for drink packages that include everything from sodas to alcoholic beverages. Basic drinks like water, tea, and coffee are usually included in your fare. However, other drinks cost extra. If you enjoy cocktails, wine, or specialty coffee, consider buying a drink package. Packages typically range from $50 to $100 per day, depending on the cruise line. However, these packages can get expensive, especially if you’re not a big drinker. See what the best drink packages include.

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Before committing to a drink package, assess your drinking habits. If you only have one or two drinks daily, pay per drink. Some cruise lines offer “à la carte” pricing for drinks. This could save you money if you don’t drink often. The drink package cost can add up quickly, so calculate your expected consumption..

Tip: If you’re unsure about the package, ask for a breakdown of the costs per drink and compare that to the price of the package.

4. Specialty Dining

Most cruise ships offer a variety of dining options, including a main dining room and buffet, which are typically included in your cruise fare. However, many cruise lines also offer specialty dining experiences that come with an additional cost. These specialty restaurants feature upscale meals, gourmet dishes, and exclusive menus that elevate your dining experience. Expect to pay between $20 and $50 per person for these premium dining options, depending on the ship and the restaurant.

While the standard meals are often delicious, specialty dining can be a great way to treat yourself during your cruise. The variety and quality of food in specialty restaurants are often top-notch, and some even offer themed experiences, such as French, Italian, or steakhouse-inspired menus. If you’re a food lover, this could be an unforgettable part of your trip. However, it’s important to factor these charges into your overall cruise budget, as the costs can add up if you plan to dine in these venues regularly.

5. Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are another common hidden cruise cost that many travelers overlook when booking their cruises. These guided tours, snorkeling adventures, and cultural experiences at ports of call can be incredibly tempting, but they come with a hefty price tag. On average, excursions booked through the cruise line can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the destination and the activity. While these excursions can provide valuable experiences, they are often more expensive than booking independent tours.

If you’re looking to save money, consider researching local tour operators before your cruise. Many independent operators offer similar tours for a fraction of the price, and some even provide group discounts. By booking directly with local guides, you can enjoy the same experiences without the additional cost that comes with booking through the cruise line. Additionally, independent tours often allow for more flexibility in terms of timing and customization, giving you a more personalized experience.

Pro Tip: Research local options for tours and excursions to find better deals and avoid paying a premium for cruise-line bookable activities.

6. Internet Access

Staying connected while cruising can be a challenge, and it often comes with a high price tag. Cruise lines charge for internet access, and the costs can add up quickly. Wi-Fi packages on most cruise ships cost between $10 and $25 per day. The connection speed and reliability vary. If you rely heavily on the internet during your trip, this expense could be significant, especially for longer cruises.

While internet access is often expensive on cruise ships, there are ways to manage this cost. Some ships offer packages that provide a limited amount of data, which may be sufficient for checking email and staying connected with family and friends. If you only need internet access occasionally, it might be more cost-effective to pay for a small data package or use Wi-Fi in port cities where it’s typically free. To save money, consider limiting your online usage during the cruise and use free Wi-Fi whenever possible.

Budget Tip: Use the free Wi-Fi available in port or keep your internet usage to a minimum to avoid paying for expensive cruise ship Wi-Fi.

7. Specialty Coffees

If you’re a coffee lover, you might find yourself craving a specialty coffee during your cruise. While basic coffee is included, specialty coffee drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas typically come with an additional cost. Many cruise ships have cafes or coffee bars serving drinks. Prices are often similar to high-end coffee shops. These charges can add up, especially if you enjoy daily espresso.

To save on specialty coffee costs, consider bringing your own coffee supplies, such as instant coffee packets or a travel-sized French press. This allows you to enjoy a hot cup of coffee without having to pay the premium prices charged on board. If you do decide to purchase coffee on the ship, be sure to check for any promotions or discounts offered by the cruise line, as some ships offer loyalty perks or packages that make it more affordable.

Hack: Bring your own coffee supplies to save money or try making coffee in your cabin to avoid specialty coffee charges.

8. Spa and Wellness Treatments

Cruise spas are known for their luxurious treatments, such as massages, facials, and body wraps. While these services can be incredibly relaxing, they often come with a hefty price tag. A typical massage can cost upwards of $150, and more extensive treatments can easily exceed that price. If you’re considering a spa day, it’s essential to factor these costs into your vacation budget.

Although cruise ship spas offer high-quality services, there are ways to enjoy the experience without breaking the bank. Many cruise lines offer discounts on spa treatments during port days or hold specials throughout the cruise. Another option is to pack your own travel-sized spa products, such as face masks and essential oils, and pamper yourself in the comfort of your cabin. This allows you to enjoy a relaxing experience at a fraction of the cost.

Alternative: Look for spa specials on port days to take advantage of lower prices.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead to Avoid Hidden Cruise Costs

While hidden cruise costs can add up quickly, they don’t have to derail your vacation if you plan ahead. By understanding the potential hidden expenses before you set sail, you can budget effectively and enjoy your cruise without the financial stress. Be sure to review all potential costs, from gratuities to excursions, so you can prepare for the full price of your trip.

With some careful planning and research, you can enjoy a worry-free cruise experience that stays within your budget. Whether it’s prepaying gratuities, choosing budget-friendly shore excursions, or managing internet costs, there are plenty of ways to save without sacrificing the quality of your vacation. Ready to level up your cruise adventures? Check out The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Packing Tips and Hacks (from a Professional Cruise Addict) to ensure you’re fully prepared for your next voyage!

Cruising Duo Travel