10 Sneaky Costs on Cruises

Cruise vacations can offer you excellent value, but hidden costs can add up quickly. Here are some tips on how to navigate these expenses and save yourself some money, keeping your budget in ship-shape!

1. Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are guided tours offered at ports of call. Prices can range from $35 to over $300 per person depending on the tour's duration and activities. To save money, consider self-guided tours, which can be free or significantly cheaper. Research your destinations and plan your itinerary independently.

2. Specialty Dining

While main dining rooms and buffets are free, specialty restaurants on cruise ships come with extra charges ranging from $15 to $60 per person. To manage these costs, stick to the free dining options and leverage any onboard credit toward specialty dining. Some cruises offer dining packages that bundle several restaurants at a discounted rate.

3. Alcohol and Beverages

Alcohol and specialty drinks are not included in most cruise fares. Drink packages can add up to $800 per cabin, with an additional 18% gratuity. Look for daily drink specials and happy hours to save on costs. Bringing your own alcohol onboard, if allowed, can also reduce expenses.

4. Spa Treatments

Spa treatments onboard are pricey, with massages ranging from $120 to $180. To save, take advantage of spa discounts offered on embarkation and port days. Avoid the after-treatment sales pitch to keep costs low.

5. Onboard Activities

Many cruise activities like fitness classes, wine tastings, and behind-the-scenes tours come with extra fees. Stick to free activities such as shows, live music, and trivia games to stay entertained without spending extra money.

6. Laundry Services

Laundry and dry-cleaning services onboard can be expensive. Self-service launderettes, if available, are a cheaper option. Alternatively, pack enough clothes for the trip or bring travel-sized detergent to wash items in your cabin.

7. Tipping

Most cruise lines automatically charge gratuities of $14 to $20 per person per day. While it's possible to adjust these charges, it's generally advisable to honor the hard work of the cruise staff.

8. Souvenir Shopping

Onboard and onshore shopping can be tempting but expensive. Wait until the end of the cruise for sales or compare prices with stores at home before making a purchase. Local handicrafts and food items in port can be affordable and offer unique souvenir options.

9. Photos and Camera Equipment

Professional photos onboard can be costly, with 8x10 prints costing over $20. Use your own camera or phone to capture memories and bring extra batteries and memory cards from home to avoid high onboard prices.

10. Wi-Fi Access

Wi-Fi packages onboard are often expensive and offer slow connections. Look for promotions offering free Wi-Fi when booking your cruise or use free Wi-Fi in port cafes. Many cruise lines also have apps that provide free communication services.

Cruising can be affordable with careful planning. By being aware of hidden costs and using these tips, you can enjoy your cruise without breaking the bank.

References: How Much Is a Cruise: 10 Hidden Costs of Cruising and How to Save Money | 8 hidden costs of cruising and how to minimise them