Now that you've picked your destination, it's time to build an all-inclusive vacation. If you like knowing your total cruise bill upfront, here's how to create an all-inclusive experience at sea.
What's usually included in a standard cruise fare?
Even before adding any extras, a standard cruise fare is quite inclusive. You can typically expect:
- Accommodation: Your stateroom for the duration of the trip.
- Meals: A variety of dining options are included, from the main dining room and casual buffets to poolside grills and room service (on select cruise lines).
- Basic Beverages: Filtered water, lemonade, iced tea, basic coffee, and some juices are generally free of charge.
- Entertainment: Onboard shows, live music, deck parties, and daily activities are all part of your fare.
How to make your cruise all-inclusive
To get that true all-inclusive feeling, you can pre-pay for common onboard expenses. This helps you budget effectively and relax more during your vacation.
Pre-purchase beverage packages
This is the most popular add-on. Most cruise lines offer packages for unlimited sodas, specialty coffees, mocktails, and alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, cocktails). Purchasing a package upfront is almost always cheaper than buying drinks individually, depending on how much you plan to consume.
Pre-pay gratuities
Cruise lines add a daily service fee or "gratuity" to your account for the crew. You can pre-pay this amount before your trip, so you don't have a large bill at the end. Note that you can still give extra tips for exceptional service.
Book and pay for shore excursions
Don't wait until you're on the ship to book that snorkeling trip or city tour. Popular excursions sell out quickly. Booking and paying in advance secures your spot and spreads out your vacation costs.
Reserve specialty dining
While many dining options are free, most ships have specialty restaurants (like a steakhouse, sushi bar, or a restaurant by a celebrity chef) that come with an extra charge. You can often make and prepay for these reservations before you sail.
Book spa appointments
Want a massage or facial? Book it before you board to secure your preferred day and time.
Purchase an internet package
If you need to stay connected, buying a Wi-Fi package in advance is usually cheaper than paying the daily rate onboard.
Cruise line "all-inclusive" packages
To simplify things, many contemporary cruise lines now offer fare bundles that package these extras together for a better value. (Most luxury cruise lines are all-inclusive, so you won't need to worry about this.) Here are some of the most popular options:
Norwegian Cruise Line: "Free At Sea"
This popular promotional fare allows you to choose several "free" perks. Inclusions often consist of:
- Unlimited Open Bar (beverage package)
- Specialty Dining credits
- Shore Excursion credits
- Wi-Fi package
Celebrity Cruises: "All Included"
Celebrity's standard pricing model now bundles the most requested amenities. It includes:
- Classic Drink Package (cocktails, wine, beer, sodas, specialty coffees)
- Basic Wi-Fi
Holland America Line: "Have It All"
This is an upgrade package that bundles several perks into your fare for a set daily price. It includes:
- Signature Beverage Package
- Shore Excursion credit
- Specialty Dining credit
- Wi-Fi package
Princess Cruises: "Princess Plus" & "Princess Premier"
Princess offers two tiers of inclusive packages that can be added to your fare.
- Princess Plus: Includes the Plus Beverage Package, Wi-Fi (1 device per guest), and daily gratuities.
- Princess Premier: Includes the Premier Beverage Package, Wi-Fi (up to 4 devices per guest), daily gratuities, specialty dining credits, and a photo package.
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages is unique in that its standard fare includes:
- All gratuities (tips)
- Basic Wi-Fi
- All specialty dining restaurants
- Essential drinks (soda, non-pressed juices, drip coffee, tea)
- Group fitness classes
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