Although many cruises are billed as “all-inclusive” and do include the basics like accommodation, food and entertainment, you’ll find that when you step on board there will be numerous opportunities to part with your money. From shore excursions to alcohol, spa treatments and souvenir photos, overspending at sea can be pretty easy. Keep your budget in check and avoid racking up extra costs with our tips for how to avoid overspending.
Compare separate costs
In many cases booking your cruise and flight as a package deal is a good idea, but before you do, look around for flights and cruises separately. You may find the flights are cheaper when booked by yourself, this can keep the cost down. You’ll also have more flexibility when shopping for a flight deal on your own versus doing so through a cruise line, as you’ll be able to choose flight times, connecting times (if applicable) and airlines yourself.
Book during “wave” season
There are traditionally deals to be had by booking a cruise during what’s known as “wave season”. This happens between January and March when cruise lines typically showcase their best deals for the season to come, to entice potential passengers. These days you can often find cruise deals year-round, but wave season is still a peak time for nabbing things like on-board credits, discounts, free upgrades, reduced deposits and other incentives.
Skip the specialty dining
Food is included in your cruise ship stay, but that doesn’t usually include the specialty spots you’ll find on most ships like steakhouses and other a ‘la carte eateries. It might be tempting to skip the buffet and opt for “fancier” venues, but ultimately why spend extra on food when you have food already available to you? Specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos also add up, so stick to provided beverages with your board.
Quick tip: If you bought a bottle of wine and didn’t finish it, ask for it to be corked and saved for the next night.
Book spa treatments on port days
Spa treatments aboard cruise ships can be pricey, however getting a deal is possible. Think about booking your treatment during a port day, since spas often discount their services while anchored and they may even offer mini-treatment packages for reasonable prices. During the port days, spas are much more tranquil and quiet, as most people will be out exploring.
Do independent shore excursions
While on a cruise ship, you’re likely to be bombarded with posters, brochures and sales pitches for excursions. You can save yourself a ton of money by opting to head to shore independently and even book tours or activities by yourself, which is likely to be much cheaper than going through the cruise ship operator. Just be mindful of the time – if you’re late the ship probably won’t wait.
Say no to photos
When you’re on a cruise you’ll notice photographers milling about snapping photos. While you might like the look of some of the snaps you happen to see (pictures are usually posted at various points), purchasing them can be rather expensive. Save yourself the £15+ per photo and instead, document your own cruise ship adventures.
Bring your own beverages (if you can)
It’s unlikely you’ll be able to bring enough wine or soft drinks on board to last your entire stay, however you might be able to bring some beverages with you, which can save you money. Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, pops, juice) and one sealed bottle of wine or champagne per person on the ship on embarkation day. Check with the cruise company in advance what beverages you are allowed to bring with you and the amount.
Do note that if you want to drink a bottle of wine you brought on board, do so in your cabin. Most cruise lines might charge a corkage fee.
Avoid internet
If you’re able to disconnect while you’re on a cruise, doing so will save you money. Internet packages on cruise ships are notoriously expensive, so you’re much better off trying to find a hot spot or internet café once on dry land.
