You've saved up, purchased your tickets and are about to embark on a trip on the high seas. But how do you prepare for unexpected cruise costs? Let's review some expenses to look for before you depart.
1. Taxes and fees
Taxes and fees on your cruise should appear early in your booking process, but it's worth keeping an eye on the numbers. These costs may include port taxes and fees, which vary based on port location, number of passengers and size of your cruise. Port taxes and fees often range from 10 to 20 percent of your base cruise fare, and they’re mandatory for all passengers.
Read more: Buckets and boosters can help you coast through saving for your cruise
2. Gratuities
You may be curious about tipping etiquette, especially considering the number of staff members on a cruise. Most large cruise lines will automatically add a general service or gratuity fee, but it may also be included in your base fare. These costs can range from $15 to $20 a passenger per day. However, it's a good idea to keep some cash on hand for other opportunities to personally tip on services like baggage handling, room service or bartending.
3. Room service
Grabbing breakfast in bed or a late-night snack? Each order to your cabin may incur a $3 to $10 fee, depending on the cruise line. Keep an eye on whether gratuity is included — if not, it's good etiquette to tip the crew member who delivers your order.
Some cruise fees are unavoidable, but others can be minimized with a little planning.
4. Hidden costs in cabin selection
If you're particular about room selection, you could pay an additional fee to select your cabin type. To avoid this charge, let the cruise line select your room and skip the specific amenities. With all the onboard activities, you may find you spend very little time in your actual cabin.
5. Onboard attractions
If you'd like to enhance your cruise experience with your ship's onboard experiences, you'll likely pay extra. These additional costs can apply to attractions ranging from exclusive sun decks to onboard rides and games.
6. Dining and beverages
Your cruise will likely include meals if you stick to the main dining halls. However, beverage packages are typically charged separately, and depending on your cruise line, you might pay extra if you'd like to upgrade to some of the more specialty dining options.
7. Shore excursions
If you'd like to take part in ship-sponsored excursions, many of these experiences will cost extra. You'll likely also have the option to explore on your own — which could help you save a little cash.
8. Wi-Fi and internet access
Just because you're at sea doesn't mean you won't want some connection to the outside world. If you're working while aboard or want to stay connected on social media, you'll likely need to pay extra for internet access. Certain cruise lines may offer higher internet speeds for high-demand access like video streaming. Opting just for the standard speed could help you save — and be sure to turn off your device's data usage once you've purchased Wi-Fi.
Tips to help minimize hidden costs
Some cruise fees are unavoidable, but others can be minimized with a little planning.
Compare cruise lines before booking
With each cruise line charging unique fees, it's important to do your research ahead of a purchase. Selecting two or three cruise lines and comparing charges can provide a better picture of the total cost of each.
Read the fine print
As tedious as it may feel, there's no better way to know the specific fees for your cruise than by reading the line's unique terms and conditions.
Plan and budget for onboard expenses
From tipping to taxes, it's helpful to plan for any additional charges when saving for your cruise to ensure you're financially prepared. By factoring in these costs, you're better able to sit back and enjoy knowing you have a buffer already in place for those little extras that can add up.
Take advantage of inclusive packages and promotions
One way to potentially avoid repeat fees is by purchasing drink or meal packages. Asking bartenders for a drink price list can help you select more affordable options, and certain cruise lines offer discounts on meals depending on time of day. You can also research cruise deals — the first three months of the year are often the best to book — and sign up for newsletters to be notified of any promotions.
All aboard!
Surprise expenses are never relaxing. With knowledge of the potential costs that may come your way, you'll be able to cruise confidently.
