One of the biggest reasons people love cruising is value: your cabin, meals, entertainment, and travel between destinations are all bundled together. But “all-inclusive” doesn’t mean everything. Knowing what is included in cruise fare, and what isn’t, helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Know Exactly What You’re Paying For
Our cruise quotes spell out what’s included and what to budget for, plus bundled fares that cover the extras.
What’s Included in a Standard Cruise Fare
Your Cabin
Your stateroom, with daily housekeeping, linens, towels, and basic toiletries.
Most Meals
- Main dining room breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Buffet
- Many casual venues: pizza, burgers, deli, tacos, and more (varies by ship)
- Late-night snacks
Basic Beverages
- Water
- Regular coffee and hot tea
- Iced tea and lemonade (on most lines)
- Juice at breakfast (on many lines)
- Milk
Entertainment
- Production shows and theater
- Live music and comedy
- Movies and themed parties
- Trivia, games, and activities
Pools and Activities
- Pools and hot tubs
- Water slides and many thrill attractions (on many ships)
- Sports courts, mini golf, rock walls
- Fitness center access
Kids’ Clubs
Supervised youth programs during regular hours are typically included.
Transportation Between Ports
Your floating hotel takes you from destination to destination.
What’s Usually NOT Included
| Not Included | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Taxes, fees, port expenses | Often $100–$300+ per person |
| Gratuities | About $16–$20+ per person per day |
| Alcohol, soda, specialty coffee | Per drink or package |
| Wi-Fi | Often $15–$35 per device per day |
| Specialty restaurants | Per person or à la carte |
| Shore excursions | $50–$250+ per person |
| Spa treatments | Varies |
| Some premium activities | Varies |
| Photos, shopping, casino | Varies |
| Travel to the port | Varies |
| Travel insurance | Often 5%–10% of trip cost |
What’s Included by Cruise Line (Highlights)
- Royal Caribbean: Most thrill attractions included; Perfect Day at CocoCay access included (Thrill Waterpark costs extra).
- Carnival: Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina included; some attractions extra.
- Norwegian: Free at Sea perks may be included with your fare (service charges apply).
- Celebrity: All Included fares bundle drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
- Princess: Plus and Premier packages bundle extras.
- MSC: Fare experiences determine inclusions.
- Disney: Soda included at meals and drink stations; rotational dining; character experiences.
Bundled and “More Inclusive” Fares
Many lines now offer fares that bundle popular extras. They’re a great value if you’d buy drinks and Wi-Fi anyway. See cruise add-on packages explained and cruise fare types explained.
Luxury Lines Include More
Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea often include drinks, specialty dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and sometimes excursions and flights. Higher fares, but fewer extra charges.
How to Budget for What’s Not Included
- Add taxes, fees, and gratuities to your fare.
- Decide on drink and Wi-Fi packages.
- Plan excursions per port.
- Add travel to the port.
- Include a buffer for onboard spending.
See how to budget for a cruise without surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is food free on a cruise?
Most food is included. Specialty restaurants and some room service items cost extra.
Are drinks included on a cruise?
Basic drinks like water, coffee, tea, and lemonade are included. Soda and alcohol usually cost extra unless you have a package or bundled fare.
Is Wi-Fi included on cruises?
Usually not, unless it’s part of a bundled fare or promotion.
Are tips included in cruise fares?
Usually not, except in bundled fares or luxury lines.
Get a Clear Quote
At The Cruise Headquarters, we explain exactly what’s included in your fare and what to budget for. Request a free cruise quote today.
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