Cruise Pricing: What Does it Cover

An ocean cruise is not the least inexpensive of holidays so it is important to know exactly what it will cost, how much cash you need to take, and what is and is not included in your overall price. Knowing you have sorted out the financial side beforehand means you can relax and enjoy your trip without a care in the world.

If spending less is important and your budget not as large as you would wish, take some time comparing different cruise lines and their prices. You may be lucky enough to find a bargain or a special offer, or if you have the patience to wait you may strike lucky with a late cancellation at a bargain price. If you really need to keep the cost down, consider going off-season, when prices are lower.

You may also need to plan carefully what to take. Today's cruise ships often have their own shops and boutiques, but it will cost you less to bring all the clothes you need, rather than having to buy them on board because you did not realise dressing for dinner was expected.

Booking is the first step, and you must choose from a range of accommodation from cheaper cabins which perhaps do not have a sea view or even a window to extravagant suites, some of which come with their own butler, private deck and even swimming pool. The line will require a deposit at the time of booking, and payment in full usually three months or more before the departure date.

Please note that some lines still make an additional charge for the use of some credit cards or charge cards to pay booking amounts. If you are forced to cancel your trip there will be a cancellation fee, and you may not recover all of your money if you cancel after a certain date.

Next, you must go shopping for insurance, as cruise lines now demand that passengers have adequate coverage, and of course you are responsible for your own visas, passports and any vaccinations you need to have. Airfares to and from your port of departure are not usually included in the cruise package.

Many cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages with accommodation and all meals on board, as well as some activities. Check that all meals are included, as some plans may include only breakfast and dinner, assuming that you will be ashore or paying for lunch elsewhere.

You may also find that you must each your included meals at certain places aboard the ship and must pay extra for other choices. Fine dining is not usually included. Other packages may include activities and meals ashore, as well. Take a good look at the brochure and read the small print thoroughly so you are well informed as to what is included and what is not.

You may find that the more expensive package not only includes a more luxurious cabin and perhaps meals in the higher-class restaurants on board, but also may well entitle you to extra activities and pampering, such as free massages and spa treatments. Drinks in the ship's bars are not usually included unless you purchase a drinks plan that allows this.

Telephone and internet facilities are usually extra and of course, you should be aware that crew members providing personal service, such as room stewards, will expect a tip. Passengers usually will be issued with credit card-style passes identifying them and the facilities they can enjoy for no extra cost.