What's Actually Included on a Cruise?

I hear two big misconceptions about cruising all the time. Either people think it is completely all-inclusive, or they assume you have to pay for absolutely everything once you get on board.

The truth sits somewhere in the middle, and it also depends heavily on which cruise line you choose.

Since I work with several cruise lines regularly, I want to break this down in a very real-world way and explain what is actually included with some of the most popular options I book for clients.

Let’s start with Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean includes all meals in the main dining room, buffet, and casual venues, along with water, tea, coffee, lemonade, and iced tea. Your cruise fare also covers most onboard activities and entertainment, including shows, pools, fitness centers, and things like trivia and live music. 

Alcohol, soda packages, specialty dining, and shore excursions are extra. 

This is a great option if you like a lot of onboard energy and want flexibility to add extras only if you want them.

Next up is Norwegian Cruise Line, especially when booked with their Free at Sea promotion.

With Free at Sea, Norwegian bundles in perks that many people would otherwise pay for separately. This includes an open bar package, specialty dining credits, Wi-Fi minutes, and shore excursion credits. 

Yes, NCL's Free at Sea is really free.  You have to pay gratuities on the beverage and dining packages, but that's it.

This option works well for travelers who like knowing most of their costs ahead of time.

Then there is Princess Cruises, when paired with Princess Plus.

Princess Plus changes the game a bit. In addition to meals, entertainment, and onboard activities, it includes a beverage package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. 

When clients compare pricing, this is often where Princess surprises them, because once everything is bundled, the value becomes very clear. 

If you prefer a quieter ship with a more relaxed pace and fewer add-ons to think about, this is a strong contender.

And finally, let’s talk about Disney Cruise Line, because it deserves its own category.

Disney includes rotational dining, Broadway-caliber shows, most nonalcoholic beverages (including soda), room service, and an unreal amount of included entertainment and activities. 

What really sets Disney apart is the level of service and how seamless everything feels. 

Yes, alcohol, specialty dining, and excursions are extra, but Disney includes more by default than many people realize.

Do you think Disney is only for families?Nope.  Disney Cruise Line is an amazing choice for adults traveling without kids even if they aren't hard-core Disney adults.

Next week, I will be on a Disney cruise with just my husband. No kids. Just two adults who like great service, amazing food, and a very well-run ship.

Follow along on social media to see what I'm talking about.

As always, if you are considering a cruise and want help choosing the right line and the right pricing structure for how you actually travel, that is where I come in.

Meet Christine

christine@moderntravelpros.com

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