Cruising can be an incredible value, but it’s also easy to underestimate how quickly small charges can add up. Many of the “hidden” cruise costs aren’t really hidden, they’re just easy to overlook when you’re focused on booking fares, choosing cabins, and counting down to sail day.
If you go in prepared, none of these costs should come as a surprise. Here are some of the most common cruise expenses to watch for, and how to decide whether they’re worth it.
Gratuities and Service Charges
One of the biggest post-booking surprises for new cruisers is automatic gratuities. Most cruise lines charge a daily per-person fee that covers tips for your cabin steward, dining staff, and other behind-the-scenes crew.
- Typically ranges from $15–$20 per person, per day
- Often added automatically to your onboard account
- Some cruise lines allow you to prepay; others allow adjustments onboard
While these gratuities support the crew who keep everything running smoothly, they should be factored into your overall cruise budget from the start. You can ask for the gratuities to be removed if you plan on tipping your cabin steward and dining staff in cash, although it is not recommended as that negatively impacts the other behind-the-scenes crew. The cruise lines do not keep any of the tips for themselves and they are passed on to the crew.
Specialty Dining and À La Carte Charges
While main dining rooms and buffets are included, some onboard food options cost extra:
- Specialty restaurants (steakhouses, sushi, teppanyaki)
- Premium menu items in main dining rooms
- Room service on some cruise lines or during certain hours
These experiences can be fun and delicious, but it’s easy to justify “just one meal” and then realize you’ve booked several by the end of the cruise.
Drinks Beyond the Basics
Water, coffee, tea, and some juices are typically included, but:
- Soda
- Alcohol
- Specialty coffee
- Bottled water
…often come at an additional cost unless you’ve purchased a drink package. Even without a package, a few cocktails per day can add up quickly.
Tip: If you don’t drink much, pay-as-you-go may be cheaper than a package.
Wi-Fi and Internet Access
Wi-Fi is one of the most common and frustrating unexpected costs.
- Packages are often priced per day
- Premium plans can rival or exceed monthly home internet costs
- Streaming and video calls usually require top-tier packages
Ask yourself whether you truly need internet at sea or if you’re comfortable disconnecting and using Wi-Fi while in port.
Shore Excursions
Cruise line excursions are convenient, but they’re rarely the cheapest option.
- Prices often include transportation and guides
- They come with the security of the ship waiting for you
- Costs can add up fast for families or longer tours
In many ports, exploring independently or booking through a local operator can save money, but always consider timing, safety, and return logistics. Additional gratuities for tour guides is recommended, which can increase your budget requirements.
Onboard Shopping and “Limited-Time” Sales
Cruise ships are excellent at creating urgency:
- Duty-free shops
- Jewelry sales
- “One-day-only” promotions
While some deals are legitimate, many items can be found for similar prices on land. Souvenirs and forgotten essentials are understandable purchases, but impulse buying is where budgets tend to slip.
Spa Treatments and Fitness Classes
Spa services onboard are almost always more expensive than what you’d pay at home.
- Massages
- Facials
- Teeth whitening
- Specialty fitness classes
If these are important to you, look for:
- Pre-cruise discounts
- Port-day specials
- Shorter treatment options
Photos and Memories
Professional photographers are everywhere onboard, capturing:
- Embarkation day photos
- Formal night portraits
- Special events
Viewing photos is usually free but purchasing them can be expensive, especially if you buy multiple prints or digital packages.
Casino Spending
Even if you don’t gamble much at home, the onboard casino can be tempting:
- No clocks
- Easy access
- Free drinks while playing (sometimes)
- ATMs available in the casino
Set a firm budget before you sit down, and consider casino spending entertainment, not a way to win money. Never spend more money in the casino than you’re willing to leave with the ship when you debark.
Laundry and Clothing Services
Most cruise cabins don’t include laundry facilities.
- Wash-and-fold services can be pricey
- Dry cleaning costs add up quickly
- Some lines offer limited self-service laundry or bag specials
Packing smart can save you money here, especially with the limited storage space in the cabin.
Final Thoughts: Awareness Is the Real Savings
None of these costs are inherently bad and many can genuinely enhance your cruise experience. The key is intentional spending, not surprise spending.
Decide what matters to you before you board:
- Experiences you’re willing to pay for
- Expenses you’ll skip
- A realistic onboard budget
When you know what to expect, cruising remains one of the best-value vacations out there without the sticker shock at the end.
