All-inclusive cruises: What to know before you book

Quick insights

• All-inclusive cruise packages can vary widely but typically include meals, beverages and sometimes shore excursions.
• Not all cruises are all-inclusive, but many offer packages that cover meals, some drinks and entertainment.
• While some drinks may be included with your cruise booking, premium beverages and special services like spa treatments often come at an extra cost.

Setting sail on a cruise? Don't let hidden costs capsize your budget! Find out what's really included in all-inclusive cruises.

Understanding all-inclusive cruises

An all-inclusive cruise typically offers meals, accommodations and certain activities within the ticket price. However, the extent of what is included can vary between different cruise lines and specific packages. Most cruises provide main meals, some drinks and use of the ship’s facilities and entertainment.

Luxury lines might include alcohol and gratuities, while more budget-friendly options could require additional payments for these services, such as purchasing a drink package or paying for each alcoholic beverage at the point of sale. With room and board covered, the only things left to worry about are when to go and what to pack.

What's included in all-inclusive cruise packages?

Most cruises are considered all-inclusive, but what does that mean? The following options and services are typically included with your cruise package:

• Dining options: From buffet-style meals to fine dining, food is generally included, but specialty restaurants may require an additional charge.
• Beverage policies: Standard packages usually include water, tea and coffee; soft drinks and alcoholic beverages might only be included in premium packages.
• Recreational activities: Access to pools, gyms and live shows are typically included, but excursions and special classes, like yoga or fitness, might cost extra.

Understanding drink packages on cruises

Drink packages are optional add-ons that passengers can purchase to have access to a wider range of beverages beyond what is typically included in the standard fare. Prices for drink packages can vary widely depending on the cruise line and the type of package, generally ranging from $50 to $100 per person per day.

Even with a drink package, some premium drinks like high-end spirits and vintage wines may not be included and might require an additional fee. Most packages have a limit on the number of drinks per day or specific conditions under which the package can be used.

Full board vs. all-inclusive cruises: Understanding the difference

Full board cruise packages typically include all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), but no beverages or extra services. All-inclusive cruises, on the other hand, may extend beyond meals to include some drinks and possibly other services, like on-board entertainment.

Your choice depends on what you expect from your cruise experience and how much you're willing to spend on extras.

Are drinks included in all-inclusive on a cruise?

Some drinks are typically included on an all-inclusive cruise, but not all of them. Let’s take a closer look at what may be included:

• Basic beverages: Included drinks often cover water, tea, coffee and sometimes soft drinks like juices and sodas.
• Alcohol and premium drinks: Higher-tier packages might include alcoholic beverages, but standard packages usually do not.
• Specialty beverages: Specialty coffees, smoothies and bottled water might also incur additional charges unless specified in a premium package.

Do you eat free on all cruises?

Yes, meals are generally included in the cost of all cruise tickets, regardless of whether they are labeled as all-inclusive. Specialty dining venues on board might require an additional fee, offering more exclusive and varied culinary experiences.

Additional costs to consider on an all-inclusive cruise

The following additional items are typically not included in the cost of your cruise:

• Service charges and gratuities: These are often not included in the quoted cruise price and can add a significant amount to your budget.
• Internet and connectivity: While increasingly common, free Wi-Fi is not a standard inclusion and can be quite costly on some ships.
• Spa and wellness services: These facilities are almost always extra, and prices can be comparable to high-end land-based resorts.

The bottom line

Understanding what is included in your all-inclusive cruise package can help you manage your travel budget effectively. While many aspects like meals and basic beverages are covered, extras like alcoholic drinks, special activities and internet access often come at an additional cost. By knowing what to expect, you can plan your cruise without unwelcome financial surprises.