Cruising can feel like the ultimate vacation — sun, sea, and the freedom to hop between dream destinations without having to repack your bags every night. But let’s be real for a moment — those jaw-dropping deals you see on cruise websites? They’re not always telling the whole story. Beneath that tempting price tag lurk hidden costs that can sneak up on you faster than you can say “all aboard.” So, if you want to avoid feeling blindsided by surprise charges, read on. I’m about to unpack the hidden costs of cruising and how you can dodge them like a pro.
I’ve been on many cruises, both with the whole family and just with my husband. I’ve got the 411 on hidden costs when cruising, and what you can do to avoid them.
Shore Excursions: Worth the Price?
When you’re in a new port, it’s natural to want to explore. That’s where shore excursions come in. Your cruise line will offer tours, activities, and adventures that seem perfectly curated for your trip. But these excursions can be shockingly pricey. A simple snorkeling trip might cost you three times more than if you booked it independently.
How to avoid this: Do some research before you set sail. Many ports have reputable local operators who offer similar, if not identical, experiences at a fraction of the cost. You can often book online in advance or even negotiate a deal when you arrive. Just make sure you’re back before the ship departs — because the captain won’t wait.
Pro tip: I book my excursions through Viator. They have world-class excursions and daytrips that are a fraction of the price of the ship’s offerings.
Onboard Wi-Fi: Prepare for Sticker Shock
Need to check emails or post that perfect sunset shot on Instagram? Well, brace yourself. Onboard Wi-Fi is notoriously expensive, and the connection can be slower than a sea turtle making its way to shore. Cruise lines know you’ll be itching to stay connected, and they charge a premium for that privilege.
How to avoid this: If you can, embrace the digital detox while cruising. But if you must stay connected, check to see if your cruise line offers Wi-Fi packages ahead of time. Some lines bundle Wi-Fi with other services, making it slightly more affordable. Alternatively, find a local café with free Wi-Fi when you’re in port. A cup of coffee and some free internet? That’s a win.
Pro tip: Check with your cell carrier, they may offer data and roaming packages that are more affordable than the ship’s Wi-Fi.
Drink Packages: To Buy or Not to Buy?
Alcohol isn’t typically included in the cruise fare, and cocktails onboard can cost as much as a fancy bar in a major city. Many cruise lines offer drink packages, but these come with a hefty price tag. You might feel pressure to get your money’s worth, which can lead to overindulging or regretting the splurge when you realize you don’t actually need that many piña coladas.
How to avoid this: Take a good, hard look at your drinking habits before purchasing a drink package. If you’re only going to have a couple of drinks a day, it may be cheaper to pay as you go. Some cruise lines even allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard, which can save you some cash.
Pro tip: Look for sales that include drink packages. Many cruise lines make attractive deals that include unlimited drinks. Even soda and specialty coffees can be extra, so watch for that, too.
Pro tip #2: Cruise lines generally won’t sell a drink package to just one person in the cabin. You may have to call and speak to a representative and explain in order to override this policy.
Specialty Dining: A Tasty Upsell
Sure, the main dining room and buffet are included in your fare, but many cruises offer specialty restaurants that come with an extra fee. Think steakhouse dinners, sushi bars, or gourmet Italian cuisine. These meals can be tempting, especially after you’ve had a few nights of standard cruise fare. But those extra charges add up quickly.
How to avoid this: Check to see if your cruise line offers dining packages that cover multiple specialty restaurants. Otherwise, limit yourself to just one or two nights of splurging, and make the most of the free options available for the rest of your meals. The main dining room often has excellent options if you give it a chance!
Gratuities: The Fine Print
Many cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your bill. These service fees go toward tipping the crew members who make your trip enjoyable, from housekeeping to dining staff. While the charge might seem small at first — typically around $14 to $18 per person, per day — it adds up over the course of a weeklong cruise.
How to avoid this: You can’t really avoid gratuities, but you can plan for them. Some cruise lines allow you to prepay your tips when you book your cruise, so you won’t be hit with a surprise bill at the end of your trip. Plus, it’s a way to budget more effectively.
Spa and Wellness Treatments: A Luxurious Splurge
Who wouldn’t love a deep tissue massage after a day of exploring a new port? Spa services on cruises are luxurious but come with high price tags. A 50-minute massage could easily set you back over $200, and that doesn’t include the inevitable upsell for add-ons like aromatherapy or special oils.
How to avoid this: If you’re craving a spa day, check for port day specials. Spas often offer discounts when most passengers are off exploring. You could also treat yourself to a spa treatment at one of the local spots in port, where prices are usually much lower. Alternatively, take advantage of free wellness activities onboard, like yoga classes or the ship’s gym.
Pro tip: Check your daily itinerary and attend any spa or wellness-related activities. They are often concluded with great deals on spa services.
Photos: Capturing Memories at a Premium
It seems like every time you turn around, a ship photographer is snapping your picture—whether you’re boarding, dining, or enjoying a sunset. And of course, those photos are available for purchase at a premium. It’s tempting to buy them all, but the costs can rack up quickly.
How to avoid this: Set a budget for photos before your trip. Maybe pick one or two favorite shots instead of buying the whole lot. And don’t forget — you can always take your own pictures with your phone or camera!
Laundry Services: Fresh Clothes at a Cost
Running out of clean clothes during a cruise? You could be facing steep laundry fees if you decide to have the ship’s staff take care of it for you. Cruise laundry services can be convenient, but they are far from cheap.
How to avoid this: Pack smartly and bring enough clothes to last your entire trip, if possible. If you do need to do laundry, some ships have self-service laundromats, which are much cheaper. You can also pack a small amount of detergent and hand wash a few items in your cabin sink. It’s not glamorous, but it gets the job done!
Extra Activities: Fun with a Price Tag
From cooking classes to escape rooms, cruise ships offer tons of extra activities to keep you entertained. While many of these are free, the more unique or niche activities often come with a fee. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and book several activities without realizing how much you’re spending.
How to avoid this: Be selective about the activities you sign up for. Take advantage of the free entertainment options first — live shows, trivia nights, and poolside movies might be included in your fare. Save the paid activities for something truly special.
Final Thoughts
Cruising can be an incredible vacation experience, but those hidden costs can quickly turn a budget-friendly trip into something much pricier. The key is awareness and planning. By doing a little research and making thoughtful choices, you can enjoy all the perks of cruising without breaking the bank.