In addition to dining and fun, cruises have always promised adventure and downtime. Here’s what you can actually expect to get and where the hidden extras might be waiting for you before you step aboard.
Though nothing is included, cruises provide a very unique vacation package that wraps lodging, food, and entertainment into one upfront price.
Specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, and even internet access usually cost extra, though many cruises include meals in the main dining venues, soft drinks, and some activities.
While it is possible to have an “awesome vacation without adding on, ” says Adam Duckworth, CEO of Travelmation, extras like cocktails, special dining experiences, or excursion packages can dramatically add up the cost of a more immersive trip.
“Those social media-promoted experiences, like gourmet dining and poolside cocktails, frequently come with an additional cost,” he says.
The number of inclusions that are part of a ticket price varies greatly from cruise line to cruise line, with pricier lines usually offering more.
According to travel expert RacQuelle Major-Holland, “Among more expensive cruise options, there often are many things included up front-similarly shielding the traveler from unexpected costs while on vacation.”.
Major-Holland advises tourists who want to get the most out of their trip to look into package choices for extras. Numerous cruise lines provide pre-trip savings or bundled deals on amenities like Wi-Fi and specialized restaurants.
Thus, even while cruising can be a reasonably inclusive vacation option, it can be helpful to do some research on what is and is not included to prevent a costly surprise when it comes time to exit.
