The Real Cost of Cruising: What’s Not Included in Your Cruise Fare

Cruising is often described as one of the best values in travel—and honestly, that reputation is well earned. When you book a cruise, your accommodations, meals, entertainment, transportation between destinations, and countless onboard activities are bundled into one upfront price. Compared to planning a land vacation with hotels, flights, dining, and activities all booked separately, cruising can feel refreshingly simple.

That said, no cruise vacation is truly “all-inclusive” in the strictest sense. While the base fare covers a lot, there are additional costs that can quietly add up if you’re not prepared. These aren’t tricks or scams—most are optional services or premium experiences—but they can surprise first-time cruisers and even catch seasoned travelers off guard.

The good news? With a little awareness and planning, you can control these expenses and enjoy your cruise without budget stress. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common onboard and off-ship costs that are not included in your cruise fare, explain why they exist, and share practical tips to help you decide what’s worth it—and what you can skip.

Room Service: Convenience Comes at a Price

There’s something undeniably relaxing about enjoying breakfast in your cabin while watching the ocean roll by outside your window. Room service is one of those cruise perks that feels luxurious, especially on sea days or slow mornings.

However, not all room service is complimentary. Some cruise lines include limited room service items for free, while others charge a flat delivery fee, additional fees for certain menu items, or fees during late-night hours. On some ships, even breakfast delivery carries a charge.

The key takeaway here is simple: always check your cruise line’s room service policy before ordering. If you’re unsure, a quick call to guest services can save you from unexpected charges appearing on your onboard account later.

Internet Packages: Staying Connected Isn’t Free

Cruise ships have come a long way when it comes to connectivity, but onboard internet is still a premium service. Complimentary Wi-Fi is rare, and when it is offered, it’s often limited to basic messaging apps or specific loyalty perks.

Most cruise lines sell internet packages based on usage level (social media only, streaming, or full access) and number of devices. These packages can feel expensive compared to land-based internet, but there’s a reason: ships rely on satellite connections, which are costly to maintain.

Many cruisers plan to unplug entirely—until reality sets in. Whether it’s checking in with family, sharing vacation photos, or handling work responsibilities, internet access often becomes a necessity.

If staying connected matters to you, factor internet packages into your cruise budget from the start. If not, consider embracing the digital detox—it’s one of cruising’s underrated benefits.

Drink Packages and Corkage Fees: Know Before You Sip

One of the biggest surprises for new cruisers is learning that most beverages are not included in the cruise fare. While basic drinks like water, tea, and standard coffee are typically complimentary, specialty coffees, sodas, mocktails, beer, wine, and cocktails usually come at an additional cost.

This is where drink packages come into play. These packages can offer significant savings—but only if they align with your actual drinking habits. Someone who enjoys a couple of cocktails each day may benefit, while a light or occasional drinker may spend less paying per drink.

Another detail many travelers overlook is the corkage fee. Most cruise lines allow guests to bring a limited amount of wine onboard, but they charge a corkage fee if you open it in a dining venue or sometimes even in your cabin. These fees vary by cruise line, so it’s important to check the alcohol policy before packing that bottle.

Understanding these policies upfront helps you avoid sticker shock and decide what makes sense for your vacation style.

Specialty Activities: Not Everything Onboard Is Included

Cruise ships are packed with entertainment, and much of it is included in your fare—Broadway-style shows, live music, trivia, karaoke, comedy performances, and deck parties are all typically free.

However, some activities do come with an added cost. Bingo is a classic example. While it’s a fun and social activity, it’s rarely complimentary. Casinos, bowling alleys, arcades, and certain immersive experiences may also charge per game or session.

Some ships also offer premium shows or interactive experiences that go beyond standard entertainment. These can be fantastic, but they should be considered optional upgrades rather than assumed inclusions.

Before participating, take a moment to check the daily schedule or ask a crew member if there’s a fee involved. A little clarity upfront can prevent surprises later.

Spa Access and Treatments: Relaxation at a Premium

Cruise ship spas are designed to tempt you—and they’re very good at it. Ocean-view treatment rooms, thermal suites, and relaxation lounges create a serene escape from the bustle of the ship.

While gym access is usually included, spa facilities and treatments are almost always an extra cost. Massages, facials, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and specialty wellness services can range from moderately priced to quite expensive.

Many cruise lines offer spa packages or discounts on port days, when fewer guests are onboard. If spa time is important to you, keep an eye out for pre-cruise deals or onboard promotions that can help reduce costs.

Onboard Shopping: Easy to Overspend at Sea

Cruise ships feature onboard shops selling everything from perfume and cosmetics to watches, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. The duty-free environment can make purchases feel like a bargain, even when they aren’t.

Because you’re in a vacation mindset, it’s easy to spend more than intended—especially when purchases are charged directly to your onboard account rather than paid for upfront.

Setting a shopping budget before you sail is one of the easiest ways to avoid regret later.

And remember: just because something is available onboard doesn’t mean it’s the best price you’ll find.

Fitness Classes: Beyond the Gym

Most cruise ships include complimentary access to their fitness centers, complete with cardio machines, weights, and stretching areas. However, group fitness classes are often treated as premium experiences.

Yoga, Pilates, spinning, and specialized training sessions usually carry an additional fee. Interestingly, outdoor fitness classes held on deck are sometimes free, while indoor classes in the gym are not.

Always check the daily schedule carefully. If staying active is important to you, this is another area where costs can quietly add up if you’re not paying attention.

Shore Excursions and Transfers: The Biggest Budget Factor

For many cruisers, exploring ports of call is the highlight of the trip. Shore excursions—whether booked through the cruise line or independently—are rarely included in the base fare and can significantly impact your overall spending.

Cruise-line excursions offer convenience, peace of mind, and guaranteed return to the ship, but they often come at a premium. Independent exploration can be more affordable, but it requires extra planning and time management.

Transfers, especially in ports far from city centers, can also add to costs. Taxis, shuttles, ferries, and private tours should all be factored into your port-day budget.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Some destinations are perfect for self-exploration, while others are better enjoyed through guided experiences. The key is to plan intentionally rather than decide last-minute.

Travel Insurance: The Cost You Hope You Never Need

Travel insurance is one of the most commonly skipped cruise add-ons—and one of the most regretted when things go wrong. While not mandatory, it provides protection against medical emergencies, trip interruptions, cancellations, and unexpected delays.

Medical care aboard a cruise ship or in foreign ports can be extremely expensive without coverage. Even a minor incident can lead to bills that far exceed the cost of insurance.

Many travelers learn this lesson the hard way. Skipping insurance may save money upfront, but it’s a risk that can quickly become costly. When budgeting for a cruise, insurance should be considered part of the overall investment, not an optional afterthought.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is the Best Travel Upgrade

Cruising remains one of the most enjoyable and cost-effective ways to travel, especially when you understand what’s included and what isn’t. None of the costs outlined above are inherently bad—in fact, many enhance the cruise experience when chosen intentionally.

The real issue isn’t the existence of extra costs; it’s being surprised by them.

By knowing what to expect, setting realistic budgets, and choosing experiences that truly matter to you, you can enjoy your cruise with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you splurge on spa treatments, indulge in specialty dining, or keep things simple and relaxed, the best cruise is one that fits your travel style—not someone else’s expectations.

If you ever have questions about what’s included, what’s optional, or how to plan a cruise that fits your budget, that’s exactly where working with a knowledgeable travel advisor makes all the difference.

Happy cruising—and smooth sailing ahead.