Is everything inclusive on a cruise?

Inclusive and Non-Inclusive Amenities on a Cruise

When planning a cruise, it’s crucial to understand what’s included in the base fare and what will incur additional charges. Here’s a breakdown of the inclusive and non-inclusive amenities on a cruise:

Inclusive Amenities

• Accommodation: The base fare covers your stateroom or cabin for the duration of the cruise.
• Dining: Most cruises offer a wide range of dining options, including main dining rooms, buffets, and casual restaurants. These are generally included in the base fare.
• Entertainment: Cruises offer a variety of onboard entertainment, such as live music, shows, and movies. These are also typically included in the fare.
• Activities: Many cruises include activities like swimming, fitness classes, and sports courts.
• Basic drinks: Some cruises may include a limited selection of non-alcoholic drinks, such as water, tea, and juice.

Non-Inclusive Amenities

• Poolside drinks: Drinks at poolside bars and lounges are usually not included in the base fare and require an additional charge.
• Specialty dining: Cruises often offer specialty restaurants that provide a more upscale dining experience. These restaurants require reservations and incur an additional cost.
• Shore excursions: While the cruise ship itself is covered by the base fare, shore excursions to explore the ports of call are typically optional and come with an extra charge.
• Internet access: WiFi and internet access on cruise ships usually incur a daily or hourly fee.
• Spa treatments: Massages, facials, and other spa services are generally not included in the fare and require an additional charge.
• Laundry service: Laundry services on cruises usually come with an additional fee.

Tips for Budgeting

To avoid unexpected expenses while cruising, it’s important to factor in the potential costs of non-inclusive amenities. Consider the following tips:

• Check the ship’s website: Cruise lines provide a detailed list of included and non-inclusive amenities on their websites.
• Purchase a beverage package: Some cruises offer beverage packages that cover the cost of poolside drinks and other alcoholic beverages.
• Book shore excursions in advance: Booking shore excursions through the cruise line may be more expensive. Consider booking them independently to save money.
• Bring your own drinks: If you want to avoid paying for drinks on board, consider bringing a limited number of non-alcoholic beverages in your carry-on.

By understanding the inclusive and non-inclusive amenities on a cruise, you can better plan your budget and ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.