Articles - Archived Money Matters

The Hidden Costs of Cruising

A cruise can be ideal for the holidays, especially when everything is “all inclusive.” This means everything is included in the booking price. Or does it? Before spending your next vacation cruising, it may be worthwhile to consider the hidden costs.

Transportation: Consider the port-of-calls where your cruise ship will depart. It's likely the departure port will require you to get there by plane, or drive and pay to leave your vehicle in a daily lot.

What's not included: For most cruises, meals, water, coffee and tea are all included in the price. For soft drinks, bottled water or alcoholic beverages, though, you may want to purchase a drink pass. Additionally, some restaurants aboard the ship may not fall under the "all inclusive" package. To avoid these additional charges, locate those restaurants soon after boarding the ship. You may also consider packing refillable water bottles to cut back on the need to drink bottled water in your cabin, around the ship and on excursions.

Laundry: Depending on the package you booked, requesting extra towels for the pool or your room may mean extra charges. Fresh water is limited on cruise ships, and laundry services will likely add to additional charges.

Activities: There are many activities offered onboard, and in the form off-ship excursions. Remember that being off the ship means you may be on your own for food, drinks and transportation. To help reduce excursion costs, consider packing a collapsible cooler, then fill it with sandwiches, snacks and drinks from the ship.

Hopefully, these considerations will make your next cruise a memorable—and more affordable—one!