Cruising is often seen as one of the most affordable ways to vacation while visiting multiple destinations. With your ship acting as a floating hotel, packed with dining, entertainment, and activities, you could technically stay onboard for the entire trip and still feel like you got your money’s worth.
That said, onboard add-ons can sneak up on you. Excursions, drink packages, Wi-Fi, spa treatments, and shopping can all add up quickly, leaving some cruisers surprised by their final bill. The good news? With a little planning, it is possible to enjoy your cruise without spending much, or any, extra money once you board.
Here are some practical ways to keep onboard spending to a minimum.
Research Ports in Advance
One of the biggest onboard revenue drivers for cruise lines is shore excursions, which often come at a premium. However, not every port requires a paid tour to have a great day.
If you’re cruising in Europe, many ports are close to historic city centers that are easy to explore on your own. While you may need to pay for public transportation, you can often experience the highlights without booking an organized excursion.
Ports That Are Easy to Explore Without an Excursion
Private islands
Most cruise lines’ private islands offer plenty of free amenities, including beaches, loungers, and food. While some activities may cost extra, you can easily spend the day relaxing without spending anything.
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Both Amber Cove and Taino Bay terminals feature resort-style areas right off the ship, complete with pools and lazy rivers that are free for cruisers to enjoy.
Grand Turk
One of my favorite stops. A short walk down the beach from the pier brings you to Jack’s Shack, a laid-back beach bar with great views of the ships and easy access to crystal-clear water.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
With two cruise terminals, San Juan is perfect for a self-guided walking tour. If you dock in Old San Juan, you’re within walking distance of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal.
If your itinerary includes a port where an excursion feels necessary, and you’d rather not spend the money, consider staying onboard. With thousands of passengers ashore, the ship is quieter, less crowded, and perfect for a relaxing day.
Stick to the Free Activities
Cruise ships are packed with complimentary entertainment. From nightly production shows in the main theater to deck parties, trivia, and live music, there’s something happening almost all day long.
Be sure to review the daily schedule on your cruise app or the paper planner delivered to your cabin. You’ll often find fun extras like ice carving demonstrations or towel animal workshops hosted by the crew.
Some activities charge a fee to participate but are free to watch. Game shows like Wheel of Fortune may require payment to play, but anyone can enjoy watching. Others like The Newlywed/Not-So-Newlywed Game or Battle of the Sexes are completely free to attend and participate in (if you’re brave enough, or if your travel companions volunteer you).
Be Strategic About Onboard Purchases
Most ships have onboard shops selling cruise-branded merchandise and duty-free items like alcohol, watches, and handbags. These are usually easy to skip unless you forgot something important or want a souvenir. I’ve personally paid premium prices for sunscreen I forgot to pack but also found a reasonably priced sweatshirt for an unexpectedly chilly day.
The spa is another common splurge. While relaxing, treatments onboard are often significantly more expensive than on land. If a massage is important to you, booking pre-cruise or choosing a port day can sometimes reduce the cost.
Drink Packages
Drink packages can be one of the biggest expenses onboard. Prices vary by cruise line but often start around:
- $8–$10 per day for soda packages
- $50+ per day for standard alcohol packages
While booking in advance may offer a discount, the cost adds up quickly. If you don’t drink often, purchasing beverages individually may be the better option. Water, juice, coffee, and tea are typically available for free in the buffet.
Wi-Fi Packages
Wi-Fi onboard can be surprisingly expensive, sometimes costing more for a few days than a month of internet at home. Lower-tier packages may include social media access, while premium plans allow streaming and multiple devices.
Ask yourself whether you really need internet at sea. Many ports offer free or inexpensive Wi-Fi, making it easier to stay connected without purchasing an onboard package.
Do I Need to Spend Money Onboard?
Short answer: no.
While optional purchases can enhance your cruise experience, they’re not required to enjoy your trip. Although I can’t say I’ve never cruise without spending money onboard, it’s absolutely possible to cruise while sticking to a set budget or spending nothing at all.
My recommendation is to decide on an onboard spending limit before you sail and stick to it. With so many free dining options, activities, and ports you can explore independently, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy everything your cruise has to offer without overspending.
