Smart Tips to Manage Onboard Expenses (Without Missing the Fun)
Ahoy, savvy sailors!
You’re sipping a fruity drink by the pool, watching dolphins dance in the ship’s wake. Life is perfect—until the final bill arrives and you wonder if you accidentally bought the ship.
Sound familiar? Don’t let onboard extras turn your dream cruise into a budget wreck. With a few simple strategies, you can indulge without the regret. Here’s your captain-approved guide to stretching every dollar while still having the time of your life with America’s Best Cruises.
Step 1: Build Your Budget Before You Board
Start strong to finish strong.
– Research like a pro. Compare itineraries, ship amenities, and total costs. America’s Best Cruises has options for every budget—Caribbean getaways, Alaskan adventures, or Mediterranean magic.
– Know what’s free. Your fare almost always includes your cabin, main dining, buffet, shows, pools, and basic drinks (water, tea, coffee, juice). Everything else is optional.
– Set a daily “fun fund.” Most cruisers spend $50–$150 per person per day on extras. Decide yours now and treat it like cash—when it’s gone, the splurging stops.
Step 2: Track Spending Like a Hawk (It’s Easy!)
– Use the cruise line app or your cabin TV to check your onboard account daily. Seeing $87 on margaritas by day two is a great wake-up call!
– Pro move: Ask Guest Services for a mid-cruise printout. No surprises at the end.
Step 3: Enjoy Tons of Free Fun
Your ship is packed with complimentary thrills:
– Broadway-caliber shows and live bands
– Trivia, dance classes, and pool games
– Movies under the stars
– Gym, jogging track, and most fitness classes
Skip the paid stuff and you’ll still have an action-packed vacation—at zero extra cost.
Top Onboard Money-Savers
1. Drinks
Cocktail prices add up fast ($12–$15 each).
– Love to sip? Pre-buy a beverage package—it usually pays off after 5–6 drinks a day.
– Staying light? Stick to free lemonade, iced tea, and coffee. Bring a reusable water bottle for refill stations.
2. Dining
The main dining room and buffet are fantastic (and free!).
– Limit specialty restaurants to one special night.
– Pre-purchase a 3-night dining package and save 20–40%.
3. Shore Excursions
The biggest budget buster!
– Book early for discounts.
– Use trusted third-party operators (check reviews on Cruise Critic).
– DIY in easy ports—walk, take a cheap taxi, or hop on local ferries.
4. Wi-Fi
Skip it or buy the cheapest “social” plan ($10–$15/day). Download movies, maps, and books before you sail.
5. Spa & Photos
Wait for port-day or last-day specials (often 30% off).
Snap your own pics with your phone—skip the $25 pro prints unless it’s that perfect family shot.
Genius Tricks to Save Even More
– Book smart. Early-bird or last-minute deals from America’s Best Cruises can slash hundreds off your fare.
– Pack like a pro. Bring sunscreen, meds, reusable bottles, snacks, and formal wear—onboard prices are sky-high.
– Join loyalty programs. Free to sign up, and you’ll earn onboard credit fast.
– Grab onboard deals. Check the daily newsletter for flash sales on spa, drinks, and future cruises (often 10–50% off).
– Use a travel agent. Our team at America’s Best Cruises finds hidden perks, free upgrades, and bonus onboard credit you won’t see online.
Hidden Costs to Watch (So They Don’t Bite)
– Gratuities: $15–$20 per person, per day (added automatically). Budget it—it’s how your amazing crew gets paid.
– Laundry: Pack enough outfits or hand-wash with travel detergent.
– Casino & bingo: Fun, but set a strict limit before you play.
The Bottom Line
Cruising is one of the best vacation values—especially when you spend smart. A little planning means more money for souvenirs, sunset cocktails, or your next adventure.
Ready to sail without the financial hangover?
Drop your favorite money-saving tip in the comments—we love hearing your stories!
Let the experts at America’s Best Cruises handle the deals, perks, and planning. We’ll get you the lowest group rates, free onboard credit, and zero stress.
