Cruise add ons: what to budget for
The cruise fare covers a lot: your cabin, the main dining room, the buffet, shows and the pool. But there are many add ons that can make the trip even better, and they are easy to forget when you set a budget. Here is how I explain them to the people I book, so you know what each one is, why it helps, and what to plan for.
Why add ons matter
I will be honest: in my experience, the add ons are what take a cruise from good to great. A drink package means you stop doing math every time you order. A night at a specialty restaurant turns into the dinner everyone talks about. A good excursion is often the best memory of the whole trip. None of it is required, but knowing about it ahead of time means you can pick what matters to you and budget for it, instead of getting surprised by your onboard bill on the last night.
One thing to know up front: prices for all of these vary by cruise line, ship and sailing, and they change often. I don't list prices here because they would be out of date fast. I confirm the real numbers for your sailing before you book.
Drink packages
Most lines sell beverage packages that cover cocktails, beer, wine, sodas and specialty coffee for a daily rate. There are usually cheaper options for soda only or for kids, too.
- The benefit: you order freely and know your cost before you sail. It just feels more like a vacation.
- Good to know: many lines require every adult in the cabin to buy the same package, and the price is charged for every day of the cruise. Buying before you sail is often cheaper than buying onboard.
- Skip it if: you only have a drink or two a day. Paying as you go is usually fine.
Dining packages and specialty restaurants
The main dining room and buffet are included and they are good. Specialty restaurants, like steakhouses, Italian, sushi and teppanyaki, cost extra, either per meal or as a multi night dining package.
- The benefit: quieter rooms, better food and a real night out. Great for anniversaries, birthdays or just a break from the crowds.
- Good to know: popular spots fill up, so reserving before you sail helps. Packages make sense if you plan to eat specialty more than once or twice.
Shore excursions
Excursions are the tours and activities in port: snorkeling, beach days, ruins, food tours and more. You can book through the cruise line or plan your own.
- The benefit: this is where a lot of the best memories happen. Booking through the line also means the ship waits for you if your tour runs late.
- Good to know: prices are per person, so they add up fast for families. Popular tours sell out, so book early and budget for each port day.
Not sure where your ship goes? See the itinerary on our departures list or the Cruises from Miami guide.
Wifi
Wifi is usually sold as a separate package, often per device and per day for the whole cruise. Some lines offer a cheaper social media plan and a faster streaming plan.
- The benefit: you can share photos, check on the kids or handle a quick work email without worrying about roaming charges.
- Good to know: phone roaming at sea can be very expensive, so turn off cellular data or put your phone in airplane mode if you skip wifi.
Other extras people forget
- Gratuities: most lines add a daily amount per guest to your onboard account. It is usually not in the advertised fare, and I always include it when I quote.
- Travel protection: optional, but I recommend at least looking at it. It can cover cancellations, medical issues and missed connections.
- Photos: the ship photographers are everywhere, and photo packages can be worth it if you want the formal night pictures.
- Specialty coffee and snacks: lattes, gelato and some treats cost extra unless you have a package that covers them.
- Spa, kids clubs after hours and arcade: small charges that add up on a longer trip.
- Before and after the cruise: parking, a hotel the night before and getting from the airport.
Building your budget
My simple approach: start with the fare and taxes, add gratuities, then pick the two or three extras that matter most to you. For most people that is a drink package, one excursion per port and maybe one special dinner. Then leave a little room for the small stuff. You don't need everything, but planning for the things you will actually use makes the whole week more relaxed.
When you book with me or send a quote request, tell me which extras you are thinking about. I will confirm the current prices for your sailing so there are no surprises.
Quick questions
Are drink packages worth it?
It depends on how you drink. If you like a few cocktails, specialty coffees or sodas every day, a package usually makes things simpler and often comes out ahead. If you only have a drink or two, paying as you go is usually fine. Prices vary by line, ship and sailing.
Is wifi included on a cruise?
Usually not. Most lines sell wifi as a separate package, sometimes per device. Some fares or loyalty perks include it, so it is worth checking before you buy.
Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?
Usually not. Most lines add a daily gratuity per guest to your onboard account. It is a separate amount from the advertised fare, so plan for it.
Can you tell me what the extras cost for my sailing?
Yes. Tell me the sailing and who is traveling, and I will confirm gratuities, packages and travel protection for that cruise before you book.
Add on prices and rules vary by cruise line, ship and sailing and change often. We confirm details for your sailing before you pay. See more answers on our FAQ.
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