Avoid The Hidden Costs That Sink Cruise Budgets
You’ve booked the cruise of a lifetime! Unlimited food, stunning ports and ocean views for days—sounds perfect, right?
Until the final bill shows up and you realize you just paid for a second vacation in “extras.”
Don’t worry. Every experienced cruiser has been there. The good news? Once you know where the hidden costs lurk, they’re easy to control. Here’s your no-surprises guide to cruising smarter—without sacrificing the fun.
What’s Actually Included (and What’s Not)
Your cruise fare almost always covers:
– Your cabin
– Main dining room meals & buffet
– Most entertainment and shows
– Kids’ clubs and pools
Everything else? That’s where the money sneaks out of your wallet if you’re not careful.
Pre-Cruise Costs (They Add Up Fast)
1. Getting to the Ship
Flights, hotels, parking, and transfers can easily tack on $300–$1,000+ per person.
Pro tips:
– Fly in a day early (delays and hurricanes happen).
– Compare cruise-line airfare + transfers vs. booking yourself.
– Use off-site parking or rideshare—port parking can run $20–$30/day.
2. Travel Insurance – Don’t Skip This
Medical emergencies at sea or in a foreign port are insanely expensive. A good “cancel for any reason” policy usually costs 5–10% of your trip total but can save you thousands.
The Big Onboard Budget Busters
1. Gratuities
Expect $15–$20 per person, per day (automatically added). You can adjust at Guest Services if service was truly poor but most guests happily pay—the crew earns it.
2. Drinks
That $14 cocktail adds up fast.
– Coffee, tea, water, lemonade, and basic juices = free
– Everything else = pay per drink or buy a package
Rule of thumb: If you’ll have more than 5–6 alcoholic drinks a day, the package usually pays for itself.
3. Specialty Restaurants
Love a great steakhouse or sushi night? Budget $30–$80 per person per visit—or pre-buy a dining package for 20–40% savings.
4. Wi-Fi
Prices have dropped, but it’s still $15–$30/day per device for decent speed.
Trick: Buy the “social media only” plan if you just need Instagram and email.
5. Spa, Casino, Bingo, Art Auctions, Photos
All extra. Decide in advance what’s worth it to you and set a firm limit.
Shore Excursions – The #1 Budget Killer
Shore Excursions – The #1 Budget Killer
A single cruise-line excursion can cost $100–$400 per person. Do this at every port and you’ve just added another mortgage payment.
Smarter options:
– Book with reputable third-party operators (TripAdvisor and Cruise Critic reviews are your friend). Often 30–60% cheaper and smaller groups.
– DIY in walkable ports (Cozumel, Nassau, St. Maarten, etc.). Taxis and ferries are cheap and easy.
– Look for cruise-line “beach day” passes if you just want sand and sun.
Post-Cruise Surprises
Set a “fun money” envelope or prepaid onboard credit and when it’s gone, it’s gone.
Your 5-Step Plan to Stay on Budget
1. Create a realistic “per day” extra budget (most people need $50–$150 pp/day).
2. Pre-buy packages (drinks, dining, Wi-Fi, excursions) – almost always cheaper than paying onboard.
3. Load onboard credit gift cards before you sail (many lines still offer 10% bonus).
4. Use the cruise line app or TV to track spending daily.
5. Book during wave season (Jan–March) or watch for Black Friday cruise deals.
The Bottom Line
Cruising is still one of the best vacation values on the planet—when you plan for the extras. A little preparation turns “sticker shock” into “smooth sailing.”
Ready for your next adventure without the budget hangover?
Drop your best money-saving cruise hack in the comments—we read every single one!
If you want the absolute best group rates, free onboard credit and someone else to watch all the promotions for you, talk to our team at America’s Best Cruises.
Let’s get you on the water—without sinking your wallet.
