For first-time cruisers, the allure of all-inclusive travel can quickly fade when unexpected costs surface. Cruise lines excel at maximizing onboard spending, often luring travelers with low initial rates only to hit them with a barrage of opportunities to spend more. This guide, compiled from over 25 years of cruising experience and insights from seasoned travelers, details 15 common pitfalls that newcomers should avoid.
Shore Excursions: The Illusion of Convenience
The first mistake many make is overspending on shore excursions. While cruise lines push guided tours, popular destinations like Barcelona or Venice are easily explored independently using public transportation or ride-sharing services. A guided tour to Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia can easily exceed $100 per person, while a metro ticket and independent entry cost around $30 total.
Why it matters: Independent exploration often provides a more authentic experience at a fraction of the price. Relying solely on cruise-sponsored tours limits flexibility and inflates costs unnecessarily.
Independent vs. Cruise Line Tours: A Value Proposition
Booking shore excursions through the cruise line is convenient, but rarely the most economical option. Local tour operators and services like Viator or ToursByLocals often offer smaller groups, personalized experiences, and competitive pricing. A 40-person bus tour booked through the line pales in comparison to a private tour with a local guide.
The takeaway: Use the cruise line’s excursion list as a research tool, but don’t automatically book through them. Explore independent options for better value and a more intimate experience.
Drink Packages: A Gamble on Consumption
Drink packages can be costly, and only worthwhile if you consume a significant amount of beverages daily. Carnival’s Cheers! package costs $69.95+ per person, while Royal Caribbean’s can reach $115. If you’re not a heavy drinker, paying as you go is often cheaper.
The math: Carnival’s package requires over eight beers daily to break even. If you prefer wine, five glasses a day at the higher end of the spectrum ($16/glass) make the package worthwhile.
The Upside of Drink Packages: For Heavy Drinkers
Conversely, heavy drinkers, especially those who consume wine or specialty coffees, can save money with a drink package. Wine by the glass on Carnival ships ranges from $11 to $16, making the package cost-effective after just a few glasses.
Tip: Some lines offer discounts on packages in advance of sailing. Check Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise Planner” for potential deals.
BYOB: When Allowed, Maximize Savings
Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring limited amounts of alcohol onboard. Disney permits two bottles of wine or six beers per adult, while Royal Caribbean allows one bottle of wine and a dozen non-alcoholic beverages. This can significantly reduce bar bills.
Caveat: Some lines charge a corkage fee for wine consumed in onboard restaurants.
Skip the Soda Package: Unless You’re a High-Volume Consumer
Soda packages are often overpriced unless you drink multiple sodas hourly. Royal Caribbean’s package runs $12 to $18 per day, while a single soda costs $3.50 a la carte. The package only breaks even after five sodas daily.
Reality check: You won’t always be on the ship to utilize the package fully, especially during port days.
Toiletry Overpacking: A Smart Investment
Cruise ships inflate prices for essentials like sunscreen and toothpaste. Packing your own toiletries saves money. Include a small first-aid kit with over-the-counter medicines for unexpected needs.
Proactive preparation: Being prepared for minor ailments avoids overpriced onboard purchases.
Points and Miles: Maximize Onboard Spending
Use credit cards that offer travel rewards to earn points on all onboard purchases. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, for example, earns 2x points on travel and 3x on dining.
Loyalty pays: Maximize rewards while enjoying your cruise.
Spa Treatments: Timing is Key
Spa treatments are expensive, often exceeding $199 for a 75-minute massage. Wait for port-day discounts when demand is lower. Ship spas often slash prices to fill appointments.
Negotiate wisely: Look for deals in cabin newsletters or ask staff directly.
Double Tipping: Avoid Unnecessary Charges
Some cruise lines now automatically add gratuities to spa treatments. Confirm if a tip is included before adding another.
Double-check your bill: Prevent unintentional overpaying.
Onboard Shopping: Buyer Beware
Cruise ship stores sell overpriced souvenirs, jewelry, and trinkets. Resist impulse purchases.
Smart spending: Avoid unnecessary items inflated for profit.
Phone Data: Keep Airplane Mode On
Accidental roaming charges can ruin your trip. Keep your phone in airplane mode and purchase a Wi-Fi package if needed.
Simple solution: Prevent unexpected bills by disabling data roaming.
Photo Packages: Skip the Upsell
Ship photographers aggressively push expensive photo packages. The quality isn’t always worth the price. Digital photos can easily exceed $20 each, while multipackage options run into the hundreds.
Value assessment: Consider the true cost before committing to a package.
Flights: Leverage Points for Travel
Use points and miles to book flights to and from the cruise port. This can significantly reduce travel expenses.
Strategic planning: Maximize rewards for a more affordable journey.
Casino Perks: Ask for Compensation
Frequent casino players should introduce themselves to the manager and inquire about loyalty perks.
Loyalty matters: Negotiate for rewards and benefits based on your spending.
Ultimately, smart cruising requires awareness of common pitfalls. By avoiding these rookie mistakes, first-time travelers can enjoy a more affordable and authentic voyage.
