What's Included??
What’s Included in Most Cruises (and What Usually Costs Extra)
Cruise fares can look truly “all-inclusive,” but most are better described as bundle-inclusive: your cabin, core dining, and plenty of entertainment are covered, while popular add-ons (like alcohol, Wi‑Fi, specialty dining, and excursions) usually cost extra. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what you can generally expect on most major cruise lines.
Food: What’s Included vs. Extra
One of the best values in cruising is how much food is already part of your fare—but the trend across many ships is more tempting specialty venues and add-ons.
Typically Included
- Main dining room meals (breakfast, lunch on sea days, dinner)
- Buffet dining (breakfast, lunch, dinner; hours vary by ship)
- Casual quick bites (select grab-and-go venues, pizza counters, deli-style options—varies by cruise line)
- Basic room service may be included on some lines (others charge a fee or include only limited items)
Usually Costs Extra
- Specialty restaurants (steakhouses, sushi, chef’s tables, premium tasting menus)
- Premium menu items in the main dining room on some lines (e.g., lobster upgrades, premium cuts)
- Late-night room service fees or delivery charges (common on many ships)
Packages That Add More
- Specialty Dining Package (a set number of specialty meals or a multi-night plan)
- VIP/“all-in” fare bundles on some lines (may include dining credits)
Drinks: What’s Included vs. Extra
Drink inclusions vary widely by cruise line and fare type. In general, think: basic beverages are included; anything branded, bottled, or bar-made is extra unless you have a package.
Typically Included
- Water, basic coffee/tea in dining venues (regular coffee, hot tea)
- Standard drink stations (often water, iced tea, lemonade in the buffet area—availability varies)
Usually Costs Extra
- Alcohol (beer, wine, cocktails)
- Soda and sometimes specialty beverages
- Specialty coffee (espresso drinks, lattes, cappuccinos)
- Bottled water, fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, energy drinks
Packages That Add More
- Soda Package (unlimited fountain soda; sometimes includes select non-alcoholic options)
- Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package (often includes soda, specialty coffee, mocktails, bottled water—details vary)
- Alcohol/Unlimited Drink Package (usually includes a wide selection of alcoholic drinks up to a per-drink price cap)
- Wine/Beer packages (pre-purchased bundles or dining-focused plans)
Tip: Many lines add a daily gratuity/service charge and may apply an automatic service charge to beverages and specialty dining.
Wi‑Fi & Connectivity: What’s Included vs. Extra
If staying connected matters to you, plan ahead. Most cruise fares don’t include full Wi‑Fi, and onboard internet is typically sold by day, device, or voyage.
Typically Included
- Very limited access (some cruise lines may include app-based messaging onboard or access to ship information through the cruise line app)
- Port-day cellular service depends on your mobile carrier (not cruise-provided)
Usually Costs Extra
- Onboard internet/Wi‑Fi packages (priced per device, per day, or per voyage)
- Streaming access is often a higher-tier plan (if offered)
Packages That Add More
- Wi‑Fi/Internet Package (basic browsing/social plans)
- Premium/Streaming Internet Package (faster speeds or better for video calls/streaming—varies by ship and satellite coverage)
- “All-in” bundles that combine Wi‑Fi with drinks and gratuities on select lines
Note: Internet speed and reliability can vary widely due to ship location, weather, and bandwidth demand.
Entertainment: What’s Included vs. Extra
Most cruises include an impressive lineup of shows, music, and onboard fun. The extras usually come from premium experiences, classes, spa services, and off-ship adventures.
Typically Included
- Broadway-style shows or theater productions
- Live music, lounges, themed parties, deck events
- Comedy shows (many are included, though some may have limited seating)
- Pools, hot tubs, basic fitness center access (classes may cost extra)
- Kids clubs/youth programming (generally included, with some paid late-night options)
Usually Costs Extra
- Specialty experiences (escape rooms, virtual reality, go-karts, roller coasters—ship dependent)
- Workshops/classes (mixology, cooking, crafts, fitness classes)
- Spa and salon services
- Casino play (except occasional free-play promos)
- Shore excursions (booked through the cruise line or independently)
Packages That Add More
- Excursion Packages (credits or bundles on some lines)
- Spa/Fitness Passes (thermal suite access, class bundles)
- Activity Passes (multi-attraction bundles where offered)
Quick Summary: What’s Included on a Cruise vs. What Costs Extra
- Food: Main dining + buffet are usually included; specialty dining often costs extra (or add a dining package).
- Drinks: Basic water/tea/coffee are usually included; soda, alcohol, and specialty drinks are extra (add a beverage package).
- Wi‑Fi: Commonly extra (add an internet plan or bundled fare).
- Entertainment: Many shows and activities are included; premium attractions, classes, spa, and excursions often cost extra (add passes or packages).
If you tell me the cruise line (Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Celebrity, etc.), the ship (if you know it), and whether you prefer an “all-in” bundle or pay-as-you-go, I can tailor this to the exact package names, typical pricing approach, and what you’ll realistically use.
