What costs are not usually included in the price of a cruise?

Unveiling Hidden Cruise Costs: Drinks and Gratuities

When planning a cruise vacation, it’s crucial to factor in additional expenses beyond the advertised fare. While the price of the cruise may seem enticing, there are certain costs that are often not included, leaving passengers with unexpected charges.

1. Drinks:

Cruises typically exclude the cost of drinks from the base price. This includes alcoholic beverages, such as cocktails, wine, and beer. However, even non-alcoholic options like soft drinks, bottled water, and specialty coffees often incur extra charges. These beverages are added to your onboard account and charged at a premium.

2. Automatic Gratuities:

Most cruise lines automatically add a gratuity to your onboard account. This gratuity is a standard percentage of your total bill, typically ranging from 15% to 18%. It’s intended to compensate service staff, including waiters, bartenders, and housekeeping. While it’s optional, it’s considered customary to pay this gratuity.

Budgeting for Refreshments:

To avoid sticker shock when it’s time to settle your onboard account, it’s important to budget for the added cost of drinks and gratuities. Here are some tips for managing these expenses:

• Pre-purchase beverage packages: Some cruise lines offer beverage packages that allow unlimited access to non-alcoholic drinks and/or alcohol at a fixed price. This can save money compared to paying for individual drinks.
• Bring your own non-alcoholic beverages: Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages onboard in sealed containers. This can help reduce the cost of refreshments.
• Limit alcohol consumption: While it’s part of the cruise experience for many people, alcohol can quickly add up to a significant expense. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption and consider sticking to non-alcoholic options to save money.

By being aware of these hidden costs and budgeting accordingly, you can avoid unpleasant surprises during your cruise vacation. Remember to plan for the additional expenses of drinks and gratuities, and enjoy a stress-free and cost-conscious cruise experience.