Hidden Fees with Cruises
Gratuities (Tips)
Explanation
Cruise lines often automatically add gratuity charges for the ship’s staff, including dining room servers, room attendants, and other service providers. These charges can range from $10 to $20 per person per day, which can add up to $70 to $140 per person for a 7-day cruise.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
Gratuities are generally non-negotiable, but you may be able to adjust the amount or remove them altogether by speaking to guest services. Some cruises offer an option to prepay gratuities at a discounted rate, or you can opt for a "service charge" included in the ticket price that may cover the tips.
Port Fees and Taxes
Explanation
Port fees and taxes are additional charges imposed by the port of call, which are not included in the cruise fare. These fees can range from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the cruise itinerary and the ports visited.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
Port fees and taxes are fixed and typically not negotiable, but some cruise lines bundle them into the total price of the cruise, which can make it harder to see these extra charges. Always check what is included in the quoted price to get a full picture of the total cost.
Excursion Fees
Explanation
Many cruise lines offer shore excursions, but these activities are often not included in the base price of the cruise. Depending on the type of excursion, you could pay anywhere from $50 to $200+ per excursion. These excursions may include guided tours, sightseeing, snorkeling, and more.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If excursions are not included in your cruise package, you can save by booking similar activities independently rather than through the cruise line, as cruise-organized excursions tend to be more expensive. Look for local tour providers that offer similar experiences at lower rates. However, some activities, like private shore tours or special experiences, might offer better value if booked through the cruise.
Alcoholic Beverage Fees
Explanation
Cruise lines typically charge extra for alcoholic beverages, and prices can range from $5 to $12 for cocktails and $3 to $5 for beer. Some cruise lines also charge for non-alcoholic drinks like soda or bottled water, often adding a charge of $1 to $3 per drink.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Save by purchasing an all-inclusive drink package (if offered), which generally costs between $40 to $100 per day and covers most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. If you don’t drink alcohol or plan to consume only a few drinks, you can avoid purchasing a drink package and stick to water or bring your own non-alcoholic beverages onboard (check the cruise line’s policy).
Wi-Fi/Internet Fees
Explanation
Wi-Fi access on cruise ships is typically slow and expensive. Many cruise lines charge $10 to $30 per day for internet access, or you can purchase packages for specific data usage, with costs ranging from $50 to $200 for the entire cruise.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If you don’t need frequent internet access, try using free Wi-Fi available at ports of call or in some public spaces onboard. Some cruise lines offer discounted Wi-Fi packages during the booking process, so it’s worth inquiring in advance. Otherwise, limit your online usage to avoid unnecessary costs.
Spa and Salon Fees
Explanation
Spa treatments, massages, and salon services on cruises can be quite pricey. A basic massage may cost $100 to $200, while more specialized treatments, such as facials or couples' massages, can range from $200 to $500.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Book spa treatments in advance, as some cruise lines offer discounts for early reservations. You can also take advantage of promotions or package deals onboard. To save, consider using the cruise ship’s fitness center (which is typically free) instead of paying for spa treatments. Alternatively, try booking a spa treatment during port days when fewer passengers are using the services.
Specialty Dining Fees
Explanation
While most meals are included in the cruise fare, specialty restaurants or upgraded dining experiences (e.g., steakhouse, sushi, or fine dining) often charge an additional fee. Fees for these venues range from $20 to $100 per person, with some cruise lines offering à la carte pricing or fixed-price menus.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Take advantage of the included dining options, which offer a wide variety of food and are typically of good quality. If you prefer specialty dining, look for cruise promotions that include one or more specialty dining nights for free, or check if there are discounts for booking specialty dining ahead of time.
Room Service Fees
Explanation
While some cruise lines offer room service free of charge, others charge a fee for this service, often ranging from $5 to $10 per order, or higher for premium menu items. In some cases, you may also be required to leave a gratuity for room service staff.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Avoid room service fees by visiting the ship’s buffet or dining areas instead, where meals are included in the price of the cruise. If room service is important to you, check the cruise line’s policies to see if it is free or included as part of a premium package.
Beverage Packages
Explanation
Many cruise lines offer beverage packages that allow unlimited soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and specialty coffees for a fixed price. These packages can cost $30 to $100 per day per person, depending on the type of package.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If you drink frequently or plan to enjoy cocktails during your cruise, a beverage package may save you money. However, if you’re a light drinker, purchasing drinks à la carte could be more cost-effective. Do the math to see if the beverage package fits your drinking habits, or consider bringing your own bottle of wine or liquor if the cruise line permits it.
Transportation Fees to and from the Ship
Explanation
Many cruises charge additional fees for transportation to and from the port, especially if the cruise departs from a location far from your home. These transportation fees can include shuttle service or airport transfers, typically costing $20 to $50 per person, each way.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
To save on transportation costs, book your own airport transfers or take a local taxi or public transportation to the port. Some cruise lines offer free transfers if you book airfare through them, so check if this option is available. Alternatively, consider sharing a ride with other passengers to split the cost.
Photography Fees
Explanation
Many cruise lines offer professional photography services, and while there’s no obligation to purchase, photos can be expensive. Prices typically range from $20 to $40 per photo, with packages costing anywhere from $100 to $300 for a collection of photos.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Avoid purchasing overpriced photos by bringing your own camera or smartphone to capture memories. Some cruises offer digital photo packages that can be more affordable, so check for discounts or promotions for photo services.
Wi-Fi Streaming Charges
Explanation
Some cruise lines charge extra for streaming content on Wi-Fi, such as watching movies or using video calling services. These fees can range from $10 to $20 per hour or $50 to $100 for unlimited streaming during the cruise.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
If you don’t need to stream media, stick to browsing the internet without additional charges. If you do need to stream, some cruise lines offer promotions or discounted Wi-Fi packages during booking or port days. Alternatively, consider using Wi-Fi available on land at the ports of call for streaming needs.
Casino Fees
Explanation
If you plan to gamble on your cruise, be aware that most cruise lines charge a fee for cash withdrawals from the casino’s ATM or for using a credit card to purchase chips. Withdrawal fees can range from $3 to $10 per transaction, and credit card fees may include a 3% processing charge.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
To avoid fees, use cash or pre-load a gambling account onboard. If using a credit card, try to avoid withdrawal fees by using ATMs outside the casino or opting for prepaid cards.