Every cruise line markets themselves as all inclusive. None of them actually are.
Your cruise fare covers your room, meals at the main dining room and buffet, and most entertainment. That’s it. Everything else costs extra. WiFi, drinks, specialty restaurants, shore excursions, gratuities, and even basic things like room service all come with additional fees.
The real kicker? Those extras can easily double your cruise cost. A $500 per person cruise becomes $1000 per person faster than you can say “premium beverage package.” The cruise lines know this. Their business model depends on it.
Here’s what actually happens. You book thinking you’re getting a great deal. Then you realize you need internet to stay connected. You want a drink that isn’t water or coffee. You’d rather eat somewhere nicer than the buffet. Each decision opens your wallet a little wider.
The smartest approach is budgeting for the real cost upfront. Add 50 to 100 percent to your cruise fare for a realistic total. Yes, you can cruise without buying anything extra. You can also vacation at the library. Both are technically possible but probably not what you had in mind.
If you want help calculating the true cost of your cruise before you book, that is literally what we do.
Fair winds and following seas,
Captain Steve
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