What is normally included in the cruise fare?

What's actually included in your Cruise Fare?

When planning a cruise, understanding what’s included in your fare is essential to making the most of your trip. Cruise lines often advertise fares as "inclusive," but the level of inclusion can vary significantly. So, what does inclusive mean on a cruise? The term generally refers to accommodations, meals, and certain activities, but the specifics depend on the cruise line. For instance, Carnival Cruise, Celebrity Cruise, and Princess Cruise fares all offer different inclusions, ranging from meals and entertainment to pools and fitness centers. However, many amenities, like specialty dining or shore excursions, may come at an additional cost.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What does the price of a cruise include?” or “What is an all-inclusive cruise package?”, it’s important to dive into each cruise line’s offerings. Royal Caribbean is known for its affordable base fares, but hidden costs such as specialty dining and certain beverages can add up. Royal Caribbean cruise ship ticket prices typically cover your room and meals, but extra fees for alcohol or spa services are common. So, while food is included on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you may still find yourself spending on additional perks.

Curious about the price of a 1-week cruise or the hidden costs on Royal Caribbean cruises? It’s crucial to explore what’s covered in the base fare. The Royal Caribbean cruise price per person varies by itinerary and ship, but standard inclusions often consist of basic dining and entertainment. However, luxury lines like Celebrity or Disney Cruise Line often offer more comprehensive packages.

There may be questions like, “What is included in the cruise price for Carnival?” and “What are the Disney Cruise Line inclusions?”, and it is better to clear out all these points before the cruise plan.

When planning a cruise, you might come across the term "all-inclusive" attached to cruise fares. However, if you're new to cruising, this term can be somewhat misleading. Mainstream cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, NorwegianCruise Line, and Carnival offer incredible value with their fares, including lodging, meals, and transportation, but they are not truly all-inclusive. A variety of additional expenses, including alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, certain activities, and even premium coffee, often aren't part of the basic fare.

In contrast, some luxury cruise lines do offer a more all-inclusive experience, bundling more amenities into their fares. Whether you're cruising with a luxury or mainstream line, understanding what's included and what's not can help you better plan and manage your vacation budget.

Are Cruises All-Inclusive?

For the basic inclusions such as accommodations, dining at specific venues, select beverages, entertainment, and transportation between ports, you could argue that mainstream cruises are somewhat all-inclusive. However, when comparing cruises to traditional all-inclusive resorts—where you get unlimited activities, free-flowing drinks, and access to all dining options—cruises are generally not as comprehensive.

For travelers who prefer a more all-inclusive experience at sea, luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises provide a more premium experience. Their fares often include unlimited beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and more. Some lines even include extras like airfare and pre-cruise hotel stays, providing a level of convenience that is difficult to match.

What’s Included in a Typical Cruise Fare?

Let’s break down what’s included in your fare when sailing with mainstream cruise lines.

1. Accommodation

Cruise fares cover your accommodations, but cabin options can range from basic inside cabins (with no windows) to ocean view rooms, balcony cabins, and suites. The price of your cruise will largely depend on the type of cabin you choose, with suites being the most expensive option. Even the most basic cabins come with beds, bathrooms, storage, and daily housekeeping services.

Newer ships tend to offer more modern amenities and a greater variety of room types, including more balcony cabins and suites, while older ships may offer fewer premium accommodation options.

2. Dining

The bulk of your meals are included in the cruise fare, primarily served in the main dining rooms, buffets, and select casual dining areas. For example, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no extra cost in the ship's main dining hall, as well as in most buffet areas and snack bars.

However, specialty dining comes at an additional cost. Many cruise ships feature high-end restaurants, offering everything from gourmet steakhouses to sushi bars, which often charge a flat fee or operate on an a la carte basis.

Some lines, like Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises, offer specialty dining packages, which can save you money if you plan to dine in several premium restaurants during your voyage.

3. Room Service

Room service on many cruise lines now comes with a service charge, though continental breakfast is often free. Some luxury lines and premium cabin categories still offer complimentary room service, but many mainstream lines charge a small fee for in-cabin dining throughout the day.

Cruise lines like Disney and Holland America stand out by continuing to offer free room service, which is a rare perk in today's cruising landscape.

4. Drinks

On most mainstream cruise lines, basic drinks like water, tea, coffee, and certain juices are included. However, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, and specialty coffees typically come with an extra charge. Many cruise lines offer beverage packages, which allow passengers to pay a flat rate for unlimited soft drinks or alcoholic beverages during their cruise.

For example, on Disney Cruise Line, sodas are included in the fare, while most other lines charge for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.

5. Childcare and Kids’ Programs

For families, most cruise lines offer complimentary kids’ programs and supervised activities as part of the fare. These programs are divided by age group and are often packed with fun, age-appropriate activities. Some lines do charge for after-hours group babysitting, but the bulk of daytime kids’ activities are free.

6. Entertainment

Cruise lines are known for offering a wide variety of entertainment options that are included in the fare. Expect to find Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, live music, trivia contests, and poolside movies. On ships like RoyalCaribbean, additional spectacles like ice-skating shows and acrobatic performances are also part of the cruise fare.

Some special activities, like cooking classes or bingo with cash prizes, might come with a fee, but many onboard activities are complimentary.

7. Onboard Activities and Amenities

Passengers generally have free access to many of the ship's amenities, including pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers. Outdoor activities like rock climbing walls, mini-golf, and sports courts are usually free as well.

However, some activities, especially those with limited capacity, come with a fee. This includes go-kart racing, laser tag, roller coasters (like on Carnival’s Bolt), and escape rooms.

Additionally, access to VIP or adults-only areas, such as certain pool decks or lounges, may require paying for a day pass.

What’s Not Included in Cruise Fares?

Now, let’s look at the extras that you’ll likely need to pay for on your cruise:

1. Specialty Dining

While dining in the main dining rooms and buffets is included, many cruise ships offer specialty restaurants that require an additional fee. Specialty venues often feature upscale dining experiences like steakhouses, sushi bars, and chef’s table dinners. You can typically purchase dining packages before your cruise to save on these meals.

2. Alcohol and Premium Beverages

Alcoholic drinks are almost always an extra cost, though many lines offer drinks packages. These packages can offer unlimited cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, but they must be purchased for all adults in the same cabin if one person opts for it. Specialty coffees, fresh juices, and bottled water are also typically not included.

3. Additional Activities

Some onboard activities come with a fee, such as laser tag, arcade games, and premium fitness classes. Other premium experiences, such as spa treatments, will also cost extra. Many ships have water parks and waterslides that are free, but be aware that certain premium amenities will require a surcharge.

4. Shore Excursions

Excursions, one of the highlights of cruising, are not included in your cruise fare. Whether it’s a guided tour, helicopter ride, or adventure sports like zip-lining, you’ll typically pay for these experiences. You can book excursions through the cruise line or arrange them independently at a potentially lower cost.

5. Gratuities

Gratuities are generally not included in the base fare for mainstream cruises. Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your onboard account, which are distributed to the crew members. However, some fare classes or luxury cruises bundle gratuities into the overall cost.

6. Wi-Fi

Access to Wi-Fi on most cruise ships will cost extra, although some premium suites and fare classes may include complimentary internet. Some cruise lines offer Wi-Fi packages, which allow passengers to connect for a flat daily or weekly rate.

How to Make Your Cruise Fare More Inclusive

If you want to minimize extra costs and create a more inclusive cruise experience, there are several strategies you can use:

1. Purchase All-Inclusive Packages

Many cruise lines offer packages that bundle drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. These packages allow you to pay for most onboard expenses upfront, which can simplify your experience and help you avoid surprises when the final bill arrives.

2. Upgrade to Inclusive Fare Classes

Certain cruise lines, like Holland America and Princess Cruises, offer upgraded fare classes that include amenities like Wi-Fi, beverages, shore excursion credits, and specialty dining. These more inclusive packages can provide better overall value if you plan to use these services.

3. Book a Suite

Booking a suite can give you access to extra perks such as exclusive dining venues, priority boarding, and included beverages. Many cruise lines, like RoyalCaribbean, bundle amenities like Wi-Fi and gratuities into their suite fares, making the overall experience feel more inclusive.

4. Leverage Loyalty Programs

Frequent cruisers can take advantage of loyalty programs that reward repeat guests with benefits like cabin upgrades, complimentary drinks, and free Wi-Fi. Over time, these perks can help make your cruise feel more inclusive as you move up the loyalty tiers.

Bottom Line

Cruise fares offer fantastic value, but they are rarely fully all-inclusive. While your basic fare covers accommodation, meals, and entertainment, many extras like specialty dining, alcohol, shore excursions, and gratuities come with additional costs.

To enjoy a more all-inclusive experience, consider purchasing a package, upgrading your fare, or sailing with a luxury cruise line. By planning ahead and understanding what’s included, you can ensure that your next cruise is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.