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⚓ Unexpected Cruise Expenses

No One Tells You About

 

And how to avoid the “surprise bill blues” on disembarkation day

 

Cruising can feel wonderfully all-inclusive… until you get that little folio at the end of the trip and think, “Wait… how did that number happen?” 😅

 

Don’t worry — you’re not alone!


Cruise fares cover a LOT, but there are plenty of small (and not-so-small) extras that can sneak up on even experienced cruisers. The good news? Once you know about them, they’re totally manageable.

 

Here’s your friendly guide to the unexpected cruise expenses no one talks about — and how to dodge them like a pro.

 

🚢 1. Gratuities You Didn’t Budget For

Gratuities are the biggest surprise for first-time cruisers.
Most cruise lines charge daily per-person service gratuities for your stateroom attendant and dining staff.

💡 Tip: Prepay them before the cruise if you want to soften the blow and keep your onboard account lighter.

 

🚢 2. Drinks Add Up Fast — Even Non-Alcoholic Ones

Cruise lines charge for:

  • Sodas
  • Specialty coffees
  • Fresh juice
  • Bottled water
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Frozen cocktails (no one has just one… trust me)
     

Drink packages can save money, but not always. It depends on your personal sipping style.

💡 Tip: Bring your own refillable cup for iced tea, lemonade, or water stations.

 

🚢 3. Specialty Dining Temptations

The included dining is great — but those specialty restaurants?
They’re VERY good.
And suddenly you’ve booked the teppanyaki show, the steakhouse, and the Italian place… again.

💡 Tip: Choose 1–2 must-do restaurants before sailing so you don’t impulse-book them all.

 

🚢 4. Wi-Fi Packages

Cruise Wi-Fi has gotten way better — but it’s still pricey.
And most families don’t realize they need multiple packages for multiple devices.

💡 Tip: Don’t buy Wi-Fi on embarkation day unless you really need it. Prices sometimes drop mid-cruise.

 

🚢 5. Shore Excursions

Excursions are where most budgets blow up — easily $50 to $200+ per person depending on the activity.

💡 Tip: Mix paid excursions with DIY port days (many ports have great beaches or shops you can walk to!)

 

🚢 6. Photos and Souvenirs

The photographers are everywhere.
And the pictures? Amazing.
Suddenly you’ve purchased the whole digital package.

💡 Tip: Decide on a souvenir budget before the cruise — and stick to it.

 

🚢 7. Room Service Fees (Yes, They Exist Now)

Most cruise lines have added fees for room service delivery or for certain late-night orders.

💡 Tip: Breakfast room service is often still free — check your cruise line’s policy.

 

🚢 8. Spa and Thermal Suite Splurges

You walk by the spa… they show you a tour… suddenly you’re booking a hot stone massage and a week-long thermal pass.

💡 Tip: Look for port-day specials — they’re significantly cheaper!

 

🚢 9. Onboard Classes & Activities

Most activities are free, but things like:

  • Mixology classes
  • Wine tastings
  • Chef’s table dinners
  • Arcade games
  • Escape rooms
     

…all come with a fee.

💡 Tip: Pick your “extras” before boarding and avoid nickel-and-diming yourself.

 

🚢 10. Transportation to the Port

Shuttles, rideshares, parking fees… they add up quickly.

💡 Tip: If driving, look for off-site parking companies — they’re usually cheaper with free shuttles.

 

⚓Bottom Line

Surprise expenses can happen — but they don’t have to!
Once you know what to expect, you can plan ahead, stay on budget, and enjoy your cruise without stress.

 

And if you ever need help budgeting for a specific cruise line or itinerary, I’m always here to make it easy.