What's Included in a Cruise?

Cruising offers an all-inclusive vacation experience where you can visit multiple destinations, enjoy a wide range of activities, and indulge in delicious meals—all without the hassle of constant packing or worrying about logistics. But exactly what’s included in a cruise? If you’re considering a cruise for your next vacation, here's a breakdown of what you can typically expect to be included in your fare.

1. Accommodation

Your cruise fare typically includes your cabin or stateroom. Cruise lines offer various types of cabins, from inside rooms with no windows to oceanview cabins with portholes or windows, to balcony cabins where you can enjoy private outdoor space. More luxurious options like suites are also available and come with additional perks like concierge services and access to exclusive areas.

The price you pay for your cruise will usually cover the cost of your room for the duration of the trip, with most ships offering comfortable, well-appointed rooms and daily housekeeping.

2. Meals

One of the best perks of cruising is that most meals are included. Whether you're dining in the main dining room, a buffet, or at casual eateries on deck, food is usually part of the package.

Main Dining Room: Cruise ships typically have a main dining room where you can enjoy multi-course meals. Some ships offer traditional seating times, while others feature more flexible dining options. The main Dining room is usually Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Buffets: Buffets are a casual and convenient option, with a wide variety of food available throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Casual Dining: Many ships also offer casual dining venues where you can grab a quick bite, such as pizza, burgers, or sandwiches.

However, while meals in the main dining room and buffet are included, some specialty dining restaurants or themed restaurants may charge an extra fee. For those who enjoy fine dining, these venues offer a more exclusive experience with an additional cost.

3. Entertainment

Cruise ships are known for their lively entertainment options, and most of these are included in your cruise fare. Whether you’re into Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, live music, or dance performances, there’s usually something to keep you entertained.

Some ships even feature movie screenings, trivia games, themed parties, and talent shows. Depending on the cruise line, you might also find onboard casinos or lounges with live performances or DJs.

While certain premium shows or events might have an extra charge, the majority of entertainment options are included in your cruise package.

4. Onboard Activities

There’s never a dull moment on a cruise, thanks to the variety of onboard activities included in your fare. Here are a few things you can enjoy:

Pools and Hot Tubs: Relax by the pool or take a dip in one of the ship's hot tubs, all included in your cruise fare.

Sports and Recreation: Most cruise ships offer sports facilities such as basketball courts, mini-golf, rock climbing walls, and fitness centers.

Kids’ Clubs and Activities: Many cruise lines have kids' clubs where younger passengers can enjoy supervised activities, from arts and crafts to games and themed events.

Spa and Wellness: While treatments like massages, facials, and wellness services often come at an extra cost, fitness classes like yoga or group workouts are often included.

Daily Activities: Cruises offer daily activities, such as trivia, dance classes, workshops and cooking demonstrations, that are all part of your cruise experience.

5. Shore Excursions (Optional)

While shore excursions to ports of call are not typically included in your cruise fare, they can be arranged through the cruise line for an additional cost. These excursions offer a chance to explore the destinations you'll be visiting, from guided city tours and nature hikes to snorkeling trips and cultural experiences.

Cruise lines often provide a wide selection of shore excursions, and booking them in advance ensures you have a spot on the tours of your choice. Alternatively, you can explore ports independently, although the cruise line's excursions typically include the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

6. Tipping and Gratuities ( Optional Extra)

On many cruise lines, tips for the crew (such as cabin stewards and wait staff) are included in the cruise fare or added to your onboard account. However, some cruise lines charge an automatic daily gratuity, and guests can adjust this amount if desired. It’s always worth confirming with your cruise line whether gratuities are included or need to be paid separately.

For specialty services, like room service or additional onboard services, tipping might be expected, but it’s up to you.

7. Onboard Amenities

Cruise ships are floating resorts with a range of amenities that are typically included in the price of your cruise:

Fitness and Wellness Facilities: The use of fitness centers, jogging tracks, and wellness facilities like saunas or steam rooms is usually included in your cruise fare.

Room Service: Many cruise lines offer complimentary room service, allowing you to enjoy meals or snacks in the comfort of your cabin. However, some ships may charge for certain items or during late-night hours.

8. Coffee, Tea, and Water

Coffee, tea, and water are generally included on most cruises, available at buffets, dining rooms, and self-service stations throughout the ship. You’ll be able to grab a cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of water during your day without extra charges.

However, specialty coffees (like espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos) and bottled water may come with an additional charge, depending on the cruise line.

9. Wi-Fi (Optional Extra)

Internet access is becoming increasingly important to travelers, and most cruise lines offer Wi-Fi on board, though it usually comes at an extra cost. Wi-Fi plans are generally priced by the day or by the amount of data you need, so it’s worth checking with your cruise line ahead of time to find out the pricing structure.

However, a few premium and luxury cruise lines go above and beyond by including complimentary Wi-Fi in their cruise fares as part of the all-inclusive experience. These luxury lines include: Regent seven seas, Oceania Cruises, Vikings Cruises, Seabourn and Virgin Voyage

For standard or more budget-friendly cruise lines, such as Carnival, Costa, MSC, Royal Caribbean, or Norwegian Cruise Line, Wi-Fi is typically an optional extra, and the cost varies from cruiseline

10. Specialty Packages and Extras (Optional)

While your basic cruise fare covers a lot, there are additional packages and services you can opt for at extra cost. These may include:

Drink Packages: Cruise lines often offer drink packages that allow you to enjoy unlimited alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or specialty coffees during your cruise for a set fee.

Specialty Dining Packages: If you want to dine at one of the specialty restaurants on board, you may need to purchase a dining package or pay an à la carte fee.

Excursions and Add-Ons: As mentioned earlier, shore excursions, helicopter rides, spa treatments, or even private beach access may be available for an extra fee.

Photos and Souvenirs: Many cruises offer photography services, and purchasing souvenir photos, art, or other retail items will be an additional cost.

11. Port Charges (Included)

In the past, port charges were often an additional cost not included in the cruise fare, but now, since the "Honest Pricing Law" introduced in July 2024, most cruise lines are now rquired to include port charges in the overall price of the cruise. These charges cover the fees for docking, port services, and other necessary facilities used during your stop at each port of call. However, you should double-check when booking to confirm if port charges are included in your total fare.

All-Inclusive Cruise Fares

For those who want the ultimate stress-free vacation, some cruise lines offer all-inclusive cruise fares, which bundle a variety of services and amenities into one price. These all-inclusive fares can include:

All-inclusive cruise fares offer great value for those who want to enjoy a worry-free vacation, knowing that most of their expenses have already been covered upfront.

Final Thoughts

A cruise offers exceptional value for an all-inclusive vacation, especially when you consider the accommodation, food, entertainment, and activities included in the price. While there may be additional costs for certain services, excursions, or premium experiences, the overall cruise experience offers convenience and enjoyment without having to worry about paying for every little thing along the way.

To get the most out of your cruise, it’s a good idea to research the specifics of what is and isn’t included with your chosen cruise line. Some lines are more all-inclusive than others, and understanding what’s covered can help you plan your budget and make the most of your adventure at sea.

Happy sailing!