Cruise Budget Questions
The other charges that decide whether a cruise comes in on budget.
Ask a Budget QuestionCruise Budget Questions, Answered
Beyond tips, drinks and Wi-Fi, a handful of other charges decide whether your cruise comes in on budget. Here are the questions our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise answer most about specialty dining, excursions and the small items that add up.
What is specialty dining on a cruise?
Restaurants beyond the main dining room and buffet, such as steakhouses, Italian or Japanese venues and chef’s tables, that charge a cover charge or menu prices. Many lines sell dining packages for several meals.
Is room service free?
It depends on the line. Some include continental breakfast or a basic menu; others add a delivery fee or charge for every item.
Do shore excursions cost extra?
On most mainstream lines, yes. Some premium and luxury lines include at least one tour per port.
What else might appear on my bill?
Spa treatments, fitness classes, photos, laundry, casino play, shops, the ship’s medical center, and premium activities such as escape rooms or go-karts on some ships.
How do I pay on board?
Ships are cashless. Your cruise card or app links to a credit card or a cash deposit, and you settle the account at the end.
What costs before I board?
Flights, a hotel night before sailing, parking or transfers to the port, travel insurance and any visas. Our First Time Cruise sister site walks first-timers through the whole process.
Protect the Money You Have Spent
Most of a cruise is paid months ahead. Travel insurance protects that money if you must cancel, and covers medical care away from home — Cruise & Travel Insurance explains what to look for. For hotels and tours beyond the ship, the Official Travel Directory lists services; for trips around the U.S., see Best of the USA. Lines and ships are listed in the Official Cruise Directory.
A Simple Pre-Cruise Money Checklist
- Confirm the quoted total includes taxes, fees and port charges.
- Note the final payment date and the cancellation penalties.
- Decide on drinks, Wi-Fi and specialty dining before you sail, when pre-cruise offers often apply.
- Check your line’s gratuity policy and whether you can pre-pay it.
- Tell your credit card company you will be traveling.
- Bring small bills for porters and port guides.
Get a Quote That Shows Everything
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will send free quotes and tell you plainly what is included and what is extra.
Ask a Budget Question