🛳️ What's Actually Included on a Cruise (and What's Not)
Cruise fares look all-inclusive — but they're not. Here's what's covered and what costs extra, so you can budget right.
The "all-inclusive" myth
A cruise fare covers a lot, which is why cruises feel like great value — but several things cost extra, and they add up. Knowing the difference before you sail keeps your final bill from surprising you.
What's usually included
- Your cabin and all the basics of getting from port to port.
- Main dining room and buffet meals, plus casual eateries.
- Most entertainment — shows, pools, fitness center and daytime activities.
- Kids' clubs on family-focused lines.
What usually costs extra
- Drinks — alcohol, specialty coffee and sometimes soda; drink packages are sold separately.
- Specialty dining — the premium restaurants beyond the main ones.
- Shore excursions — tours in each port.
- Wi-Fi — internet packages are rarely free.
- Gratuities — daily service charges, often added automatically.
- Spa, casino, photos and laundry.
How to budget
Start with the fare, then add gratuities (a fixed daily amount per person), any drink or Wi-Fi package, and a realistic figure for excursions — these are often the biggest extra. Decide in advance which add-ons are worth it to you and skip the rest.
Money-saving tips
- Book excursions independently in port when it's safe and easy to do so.
- Bring a refillable water bottle and use the free dining venues.
- Watch for pre-cruise package deals, which are often cheaper than buying onboard.
- Set a daily spending limit so onboard charges don't creep up.
BeforeDepart's Cruises tab shows what's included and what's extra for each cruise line.
✈️ Before you go
Sort the practical stuff that saves money and stress:
Frequently asked questions
What about what's usually included?
Your cabin and all the basics of getting from port to port. Main dining room and buffet meals, plus casual eateries. Most entertainment — shows, pools, fitness center and daytime activities. Kids' clubs on family-focused lines.
What about what usually costs extra?
Drinks — alcohol, specialty coffee and sometimes soda; drink packages are sold separately. Specialty dining — the premium restaurants beyond the main ones. Shore excursions — tours in each port. Wi-Fi — internet packages are rarely free. Gratuities — daily service charges, often added automatically. Spa, casino, photos and laundry.
What about how to budget?
Start with the fare, then add gratuities (a fixed daily amount per person), any drink or Wi-Fi package, and a realistic figure for excursions — these are often the biggest extra. Decide in advance which add-ons are worth it to you and skip the rest.