The True Cost of a Cruise: What to Budget Beyond the Initial Fare

Budgeting for your cruise and earning free cruises with loyalty programs and promotions

1. Initial Cruise Fare

Your base fare covers accommodations, meals in complimentary dining areas, entertainment, and select onboard activities. However, many expenses fall outside of this cost.

2. Onboard Spending

Cruise lines offer numerous ways to spend money onboard. Here are some common extras:

• Specialty Dining: Most cruise ships have high-end restaurants that charge an additional fee.

• Alcohol & Soft Drinks: While water, tea, and some juices are free, sodas, specialty coffees, and usually alcoholic beverages are extra. If you plan on bringing your bottle of wine and the cruise line allows it there may be a corkage fee.

• Spa & Fitness Services: Treatments, salon services, and certain fitness classes come with a fee.

• Casino & Bingo: Gambling and other games onboard can quickly add up.

• Shopping: Duty-free stores offer tempting deals on jewelry, liquor, and souvenirs.

• Adults Only Sun Decks: Check to see if your ship charges for it's privacy deck.

3. Shore Excursions

Exploring ports is one of the best parts of cruising, but excursions can be pricey. Options include:

• Cruise Line Excursions: These are convenient but often more expensive.

• Independent Tours: Researching third-party operators can save money.

• DIY Exploration: Walking tours or renting a bike can be budget-friendly.

4. Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Flying or driving to the port? You may need a hotel the night before embarkation. Look for:

• Hotels offering shuttle services to the port.

• Bundled deals that include parking for your cruise duration.

5. Airfare or Transportation to the Port

Flying to your departure city? Consider:

• Using airline miles or credit card points.

• Booking flights that allow flexibility in case of delays.

• Budgeting for checked baggage fees.

6. Gratuities

Most cruise lines charge automatic gratuities, usually around $14–$18 per person per day. Some promotions include prepaid gratuities, so check your booking details.

7. Travel Insurance

Unexpected medical issues, trip cancellations, or lost luggage can be costly. Travel insurance provides peace of mind and can sometimes be covered by credit card perks.

8. Internet & Wi-Fi Packages

Most cruise lines charge for internet access. If staying connected is essential, look for package deals or wait for discounts offered once onboard.

9. Port Taxes & Fees

These fees vary by destination and are typically included in your total fare but not always. Double-check your booking to avoid surprises.

10. Unexpected Expenses

Prepare for miscellaneous costs like:

• Medical Services: Onboard doctors are available, but treatment costs are high.

• Souvenirs & Photos: Cruise lines sell professional photos at premium prices.

• Laundry Services: Some ships offer self-service laundry, but many charge per item.

How We Cruise for Free (or Almost Free!)

My spouse and I take a free cruise in a balcony room every other year using rewards from our Holland America Line cruise credit card. How to get a free cruise with credit card rewards

• We charge all purchases to our card, excluding our mortgage.

• We pay the balance in full each month to avoid interest.

• We earn enough points to cover:

  • Airfare to the cruise port

  • Cruise fare

  • Port taxes & fees

  • Travel Insurance

• We book during promotions when our travel agent offers perks like:

  • Free gratuities

  • Onboard credit

  • Free shore excursions

The only thing we budget for is souvenirs! By planning ahead, we maximize rewards and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Final Tips for Budgeting Your Cruise

• Set a spending limit for extras like drinks and excursions.

• Use a cruise credit card for rewards and perks.

• Look for promotions that include freebies.

• Pack wisely to avoid spending on essentials like sunscreen and toiletries onboard.

Cruising can be as affordable or luxurious as you make it. By understanding all costs and using strategic booking methods, you can enjoy a fantastic vacation without breaking the bank!