When booking a cruise, do you pay per person?

Cruise Pricing: Understanding the Per Person Concept

When planning a cruise vacation, it’s crucial to understand the pricing structure to make informed decisions. Contrary to popular belief, cruise pricing is almost always calculated on a “per person” basis, rather than a “per cabin” basis.

Shared Accommodations and Double Occupancy Rates

The standard cruise pricing model assumes that passengers will share accommodations in a cabin. The rate quoted for a cabin is known as the “double occupancy rate.” This means that whether you book a cabin as a couple or a solo traveler, you will be paying the same price per person.

Solo Travelers and Double Occupancy Rates

For solo travelers, the double occupancy rate can seem unfair. They essentially pay the same price as a couple, despite occupying only half of the cabin. However, cruise lines typically offer solo traveler-specific cabins at a premium. These cabins are smaller and designed for single occupancy, but they come with a higher price tag.

Why Per Person Pricing?

There are several reasons why cruise lines adopt per person pricing:

• It simplifies the booking process, as guests do not have to worry about splitting the cost of the cabin.
• It ensures fairness, as solo travelers and couples pay the same amount for comparable accommodations.
• It allows cruise lines to offer a wider range of cabin options, including solo-specific and larger luxury suites.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the base price per person, cruise bookings may include additional fees, such as port charges, taxes, and gratuities. These fees are usually charged separately and are not included in the double occupancy rate.

It’s also worth noting that some cruises offer “guaranteed share” options, where solo travelers can book a cabin with a roommate of the same gender. This can potentially lead to significant savings compared to booking a solo-specific cabin.

Conclusion

Understanding cruise pricing is key to making informed booking decisions. Remember that the price quoted for a cabin is typically a double occupancy rate, meaning that solo travelers pay the same price as a couple sharing a cabin. Consider your budget and preferences when choosing between double occupancy and solo-specific accommodations to get the most value for your money on your next cruise adventure.