The Hidden Costs of Cruising (and How to Budget for Them Like a Pro)

Cruising sounds all-inclusive… until it isn’t. If you’ve ever opened your onboard statement and said, “Wait, where did all that come from?” - you’re not alone.

EXCURSIONS | One of the expenses that are NOT included in your cruise fare. This is my friends and me in Nassau getting ready to depart to Blue Lagoon Island!

While your base fare covers a lot (like accommodations, meals in the main dining room, and basic entertainment), there are still several hidden costs of cruising that can sneak up on even seasoned travelers. As a travel agent, I help clients budget smarter before they sail—so they can truly enjoy their trip once they’re onboard.

Here are the top 10 hidden cruise costs you’ll want to be aware of—and how to budget for them like a pro.

Rock Climbing is available at no additional cost on many Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

How to Avoid the Hidden Costs of Cruising (Without Sacrificing Fun)

1. Gratuities (aka Tips)

Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your onboard account. These go to your cabin steward, dining staff, and other behind-the-scenes crew.

• What it costs: $14–$20 per person, per day

• Budget Tip: Prepay your gratuities when booking if possible, or budget around $100–150 per person for a 7-night sailing

2. Port Fees and Taxes

These are often not shown in the cruise's base fare when browsing online—but they’re always required.

• What it costs: Varies by itinerary, usually $75–$200+ per person

• Budget Tip: Book through a travel agent (hi!) who will always show you the real cost upfront—including taxes and port fees

3. Travel Insurance

It’s one of those things that feels unnecessary—until it’s not. Medical bills at sea or a last-minute cancellation could cost thousands.

• What it costs: $50–$150+ per person, depending on coverage

• Budget Tip: Ask if your cruise line offers coverage, or let me help you find a third-party policy that includes trip cancellation, delays, baggage loss, and medical emergencies

A toast to adventure—this complimentary drink from the Utopia Royal Railway set the tone for a luxe experience at sea. I opted for the mocktail version (because your girl doesn’t drink), but for those who do, there’s free booze in plenty of unexpected places: sail away parties, art auctions, spa pampering hours, and even jewelry shop happy hours. 🍷✨

4. Drink Packages & Beverages

Most cruise lines only include basic drinks like water, coffee, and lemonade. Soda, specialty coffee, and alcohol? That’s extra.

• What it costs: $12–$115 per person, per day

• Budget Tip: Decide what you actually drink. Some packages are worth it—others, not so much. You can also bring your own wine aboard (yep—ask me how)

5. Specialty Dining

The main dining room and buffet are included—but many ships offer high-end restaurants for an extra fee (think steakhouses, sushi bars, etc.).

• What it costs: $20–$50 per person per restaurant

• Budget Tip: Plan for one “splurge night” if it’s part of your vacation vibe—but don’t feel like you have to do it

A gourmet steak served sizzling with chimichurri—because sometimes vacation tastes like butter, garlic, and a little bit of "treat yourself." ✨ This dish is a highlight of onboard dining, made even better by the ship’s dreamy nighttime glow.

6. WiFi & Internet Packages

WiFi is almost never free at sea, and pricing can get wild—especially if you plan to stream or work while onboard.

• What it costs: $12–$25 per day, per device

• Budget Tip: Buy in advance for a discount, and decide if you really need it or just want to disconnect

7. Shore Excursions

Cruise ports offer amazing experiences, but those come at a cost.

• What it costs: $30–$300+ per excursion

• Budget Tip: Mix in free exploration days, self-guided walking tours, or book excursions through your travel agent for better deals and smaller groups

8. Onboard Shopping & Photos

The boutiques and professional photographers onboard are tempting—and those souvenir photo packages and impulse buys can add up fast.

But here's the ⭐ pro tip: Some gifts (like plushies, champagne, or treat baskets) are exclusive to the app and not sold in the gift shop at all. If you see something you like before your cruise, order it early—it’ll be waiting in your stateroom when you arrive.

Even better? If that item goes on sale after you purchase it, you can usually request a refund and re-buy it at the lower price.

Budget Tip: Decide in advance if you’ll want printed photos or souvenirs. Set a spending cap for both, and know that onboard credit can be used toward gifts, photos, or anything else purchased on the ship.

Souvenir alert! 🎁 Inky the plush was one of a few adorable app-exclusive gifts we snagged before our cruise. ⭐ Pro tip: Some items are only available for pre-order in the app, and they’ll be waiting in your stateroom when you arrive. Even better? If the price drops later, you can request a refund and rebook at the lower rate. Smart shopping = more fun spending onboard.

9. Pre- and Post-Cruise Travel

Your cruise fare doesn’t include getting to the port—or everything you’ll spend before the ship even sets sail.

What to budget for:

• Flights (if you’re not within driving distance)

• Gas + mileage (don’t forget tolls!)

• Airport or cruise terminal parking (often $15–25/day)

• Hotel stay the night before (which I highly recommend to avoid flight stress)

• Dinner + drinks at the port city (because you’re not eating crackers in your hotel room)

• And let’s be honest... the new outfits 👗👟🧢

Budget Tip: Plan your entire trip, not just the days at sea. If you’re staying pre-cruise, look for hotels that offer cruise parking or shuttle service to the port. And yes, start a little "cruise wardrobe" fund now — you know you’re gonna want that formal night dress or new sandals.

10. Last-Minute Extras

Spa appointments, room service delivery fees, event tickets, arcade swipes, laundry… they all add up if you’re not careful.

• Budget Tip: Think about your priorities before you sail. Want a massage or to try that behind-the-scenes ship tour? Plan it into your spending now—not when you’re caught up in vacation vibes

🎯 How to Cruise Smarter (Without Surprise Expenses)

The good news? These hidden cruise costs don’t have to sneak up on you.

When you book through CRUISE with PIE, I help you:

• Plan a real budget based on your cruise habits

• Pick the add-ons that actually enhance your trip

• Avoid unnecessary fees and onboard surprises

• Get insider tips to save money at every step

Cruising should feel relaxing from the moment you book—not just once you board. Let me help you build a trip that fits your vibe and your budget.

This. This is why I do what I do. 💙  A quiet moment on our oceanview balcony in Cozumel, kissed by sunshine and this sweet face. Cruises aren’t just trips—they’re chapters in your family story. And when you budget well, you can focus on this instead of stressing about receipts.

📩 Ready to plan your next cruise the smart way? Let’s chat about the hidden costs of cruising—and how we can create a trip you’ll love, without the unexpected fees. CLICK HERE to get started!