Common questions
Why is the advertised cruise fare so much lower than what I end up paying?
Cruise lines advertise the base fare because it is the lowest number they can legally headline. Gratuities (typically £14 to £18 per person per day, added automatically to your onboard account), drinks packages, WiFi, and shore excursions are all sold separately and can add 40 to 70 percent to your total cost. This calculator adds them back in so you see a realistic total before you book.
Can I remove the automatic gratuities?
Technically most cruise lines allow you to adjust or remove automatic gratuities at guest services, but this is generally discouraged since it directly affects cabin steward and dining staff pay, who rely on this income. Most experienced cruisers budget for gratuities as a fixed cost rather than trying to avoid them.
Is a drinks package worth it?
It depends entirely on how much you actually drink. Alcohol packages typically cost £55 to £90 per person per day and only pay off if you are having 4 or more drinks daily including cocktails, since individual drink prices onboard are high. For light drinkers, paying as you go is usually cheaper. Soft drink packages are worth it for families with children who drink a lot of soda.
What is not included in shore excursions booked through the cruise line?
Cruise line excursions are convenient and guarantee the ship will wait if the tour runs late, but they typically cost 30 to 50 percent more than booking the same activity independently at the port. Independent excursions carry the small risk of the ship departing without you if there is a serious delay, though this is rare with reputable operators.