What’s included on a cruise

Quick insights

• Most cruises are not entirely all-inclusive.
• Cruise fares generally cover your cabin, meals and a few other amenities.
• Offerings can vary by cruise line, so it may be helpful to check the exact details of what your fare includes before booking.

For those new to cruising, it’s not always easy to understand the pricing structure. You might assume that your fare includes everything, from poolside cocktails to Wi-Fi. However, whether you end up paying more for these amenities can depend on your cruise line and any add-on packages you purchase.

Let’s explore what is typically included and excluded with cruise fares, as well as some way to access additional amenities and extras.

Understanding all-inclusive cruises

Most cruises are not truly all-inclusive, especially when compared to all-inclusive resorts. When you book a cruise, your fare typically includes:

• Lodging
• Meals at select restaurants
• Some beverages
• Select entertainment and activities
• Child care
• Transportation between ports

However, you usually need to pay for certain extras like alcoholic beverages, soda, dining at specialty restaurants, excursions and more.

Keep in mind that what’s included can vary. For instance, some luxury cruises bundle more amenities into the fare. When selecting a cruise, you may consider the exact details of what’s included to help manage your vacation budget.

What the cruise fare covers

Your cruise fare generally covers most of your basic needs, plus a few extras. As you plan your cruise, it may be helpful to know what’s included. Here’s what your fare usually covers:

Accommodations and amenities

The cost of your cabin is likely factored into your fare. Suites and rooms with ocean views or balconies tend to have the priciest fares. Regardless of the room type, you can usually expect a bed, ensuite bathroom, closet and desk. A steward typically services the room daily.

Complimentary onboard amenities may include:

• Pools
• Hot tubs
• Lounge chairs
• Water parks
• Waterslides
• Splash areas
• Fitness centers
• Miniature golf
• Shuffleboard
• Sports courts
• Rock climbing walls

Note that amenities and access can vary by cruise line. Some group and private fitness classes may require a fee, and VIP pool areas might charge you for access.

Dining

Many cruise ships offer access to the main dining room, buffets, pool grills, cafes and pizzerias. Specialty restaurants may require an additional fee, either a la carte or per person.

Beverages

Beverages like water, coffee, tea, lemonade and juices are often included. Availability may vary by dining establishment. Some cruises offer complimentary soda, though this is rare.

Activities and entertainment

Cruises often include complimentary entertainment and activities, such as comedy shows, theater productions, live music, acrobatic shows, trivia, parties and educational lectures.

Most cruise lines also provide complimentary programming to entertain children, with trained professionals offering age-appropriate activities.

What’s not included in a cruise

Unexpected charges can be an unwelcome surprise during your trip. We’ve gathered a few of the onboard amenities and extras that usually cost money.

Keep in mind that the following information applies to many major cruise lines. If you’re traveling with a luxury cruise line, some of the items listed below may be included with your fare.

Upscale dining

In addition to complimentary buffets and dining rooms, several cruise lines offer specialty dining experiences for an extra charge. Availability may be limited, so if you’re interested in these upscale restaurants, consider booking a reservation early.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages are generally not included, though some luxury cruises include wines and spirits. If drinks aren’t included, you usually have the option to purchase a drinks package. Depending on your needs, the package may be a better deal than purchasing drinks a la carte.

Premium activities

While many shows and attractions are complimentary, some premium activities—such as escape rooms, virtual reality simulators and roller coasters—may cost extra.

Room service

Charges for room service vary by cruise line. Some offer complimentary menu items but may charge a service fee per order. Continental breakfast is often available at no charge, but if you want to order from the all-day or late-night menu, you may be charged the service fee or pay per item.

If you book a suite, some cruise lines offer room service at no additional charge.

Spa

Spa services are generally not included in your ticket price. Discounts may be available on port days when many travelers leave the ship for onshore activities.

Laundry service

Laundry services, including professional services and self-service facilities, are typically not included with your fare.

Excursions

Shore excursions are generally not included, though some cruise lines may offer a daily complimentary excursion or give you a credit for a single excursion.

Crew gratuities

Gratuities for cruise staff, such as servers and cabin attendants, are often not included, though some luxury cruises may cover them. Major cruise lines usually add a gratuity fee to your bill automatically, with the option to adjust charges at the guest relations desk. Alternatively, you can pay these charges in advance when booking the cruise.

Add-on packages for a cruise

If you’re looking to manage the onboard expenses not included in your fare, buying an add-on package could be a helpful solution. Many cruise lines offer packages that bundle these extras—often at a discounted rate—making your vacation budget more predictable.

You can typically purchase all-inclusive packages or specific packages to cover drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and photos. These packages are often purchased by cabin rather than by individual.

The offerings in all-inclusive packages can vary, but they may include:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Soft drinks, juices and bottled water
• Specialty coffee drinks
• Shore excursions
• Specialty dining
• Gratuities
• Wi-Fi
• Digital photos

Some cruise lines don’t offer packages and instead provide a choice between basic and premium fares. The premium fare usually includes many of these amenities.

In summary

If you’re used to all-inclusive resorts, you may be surprised by what is and isn’t included with your cruise fare. For most major cruise lines, your fare typically covers lodging, meals, limited beverages and some activities and entertainment. However, you’ll probably need to pay extra for alcoholic beverages, soda, spa and laundry services, shore excursions and crew gratuities.

To better manage your vacation budget, consider purchasing an all-inclusive or other package. An all-inclusive package often bundles add-ons like adult beverages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and more for a flat fee.