average caribbean cruise cost

Protect Your Trip »

How much does a cruise cost in 2024.

Use this guide to learn more about cruise pricing and how to figure out the total cost of a cruise.

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Getty Images

With the rising cost of everything, cruise fares – some even as low as $27 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables. Unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

Find your perfect cruise

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $109 per person in an interior cabin for a four-night Bahamas cruise up to $101,199 per person for an entry-level suite on a 168-night world cruise – and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November ranges from approximately $270 to $2,600 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May ranges from approximately $250 to $1,700 per person.
• A seven-night Mediterranean cruise in June ranges from approximately $620 to $2,300 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise on the Pacific Coast in January ranges from approximately $470 to $700 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October ranges from approximately $490 to $1,100 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Mass market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues and several types of nonalcoholic beverages (such as nonbottled water, iced tea, juices, hot coffee and tea), as well as the ship's pools, gym facilities, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

For more perks, you can splurge on a suite or a higher room category. With Celebrity's Concierge Class, for example, you'll be treated to amenities such as a welcome lunch, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, personalized concierge service, an exclusive destination seminar, pillow selection upon request, laundry service and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also get priority check-in and boarding, a private welcome reception, free Basic Surf Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge with complimentary food and beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) served throughout the day, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as the MSC Yacht Club, The Haven by Norwegian or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a secluded pool deck, priority reservations for specialty dining, VIP seating for entertainment, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

Guests of MSC's Yacht Club receive the line's Premium Extra Beverage Package, which covers premium liquors, fine wines and Champagne in the Yacht Club and at most other venues on the ship. Accommodations in The Retreat on Celebrity also include premium beverages throughout the ship. If you're staying in The Haven by Norwegian, a beverage package is not covered in the pricing, but Norwegian frequently advertises its "Free at Sea" package, which includes free unlimited bar, free specialty dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounts on excursions and other perks.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that covers airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate (such as the Norwegian package mentioned above), while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary.

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships . You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slide on Norwegian Viva . It would take a full week (or more) to explore all the entertainment options aboard Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Icon of the Seas – or all the new entertainment offerings and attractions on Princess Cruises' latest addition to its fleet: Sun Princess.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo staterooms, as do other cruise lines. Check out our guide to the best solo cruises with no supplement fare .

These smaller accommodations – typically ranging from around 100 to more than 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC, Cunard and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

'Kids cruise free' promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for children on select sailings.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages. Regent's regular fares typically start at around $3,600 per person for a seven-night cruise, so this is a significant savings. This fare also includes unlimited complimentary shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line. Regent even has a current promotion where kids sail free on a selection of seven- to 20-night itineraries in Europe and the U.K.

Food and beverages are another expense to consider

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues, alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on many ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship.

For an example of the savings with a food package, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 and $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $135 or more for dinner, such as the adult venues on Disney Cruise Line's ships. Other restaurants feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these venues may not include gratuities, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price.

Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi Gelati and Chocolate.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive.

Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a specific brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

It's important to know that there are a few select venues and bars on some ships that do not accept a beverage package, so you'll have to pay extra for drinks at those places. For example, MSC's ships have several signature venues that do not accept drink packages, such as Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Lavazza coffee shops and Venchi 1878.

Norwegian offers a package that covers top-shelf beverages and select bottles of wine and Champagne, Starbucks coffee, bottled water, soda, specialty drinks and other beverages. You'll need to budget around $138 per person per day for this option – and an additional 20% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer. For more information, consult our guide on the drink package options for major cruise lines .

Bundle pricing

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers the "Have It All" package, which encompasses a $100 shore excursion credit, the Signature Beverage Package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and the Surf Wi-Fi package for a six- to nine-day cruise. If you're sailing for 10 to 20 days or even longer, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship. Examples include Norwegian's racetrack, Viva Speedway; high-tech attractions like the Robotron thrill ride and the XD cinema on MSC Seascape ; and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT.

See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access to certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more, starting at about $15 per person per day. The cost increases to roughly $20 per person per day with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

The last option, Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan, starts at around $19 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "All Included" fare includes basic internet and a classic drink package, which the line says can save you potentially hundreds of dollars. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from around $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion that will allow you to arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars. If these types of experiences are not in your budget, look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These activities are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Many of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on board. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Food and beverage packages
• Optional activities (such as spa treatments or extra-fee entertainment on the ship)
• Miscellaneous expenses (such as meals and beverages ashore)
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's 12 all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate between 930 to 998 guests based on double occupancy – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to the spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have alternative dining options at no extra charge, plus free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line , so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

All-inclusive cruises

Regent Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary unlimited shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare (depending on the destination).

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All door-to-door and port-to-port Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, an open bar, gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports and movies under the stars.

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Caribbean in December 2024 round-trip from Miami with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive cruise fare with suite accommodations starts at $7,398 ($3,699 per person). There are additional perks and savings available, depending on the level of accommodations you book and if you combine this cruise with another voyage. You can also check with a travel agent specializing in cruises to see if they have access to other promotions.

For a Silversea cruise in December 2025 that sails round-trip from Bridgetown, Barbados, the all-inclusive port-to-port cruise fare starts at $9,800 for two people ($4,900 per person) in suite accommodations. Contact a travel agent before booking to see if they can offer upgrades or additional amenities.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own. Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, a cruise on a small luxury line may suit you well.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. Cruising is one of her favorite ways to travel and she hopes to book an extended cruise to see the rest of the world someday soon. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival: Which Is Right for You?
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans
• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in hershey, pa.

Amanda Norcross Aug. 30, 2024

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 29, 2024

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Aug. 29, 2024

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Aug. 29, 2024

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon Aug. 29, 2024

The 18 Best Barcelona Tours

John Rodwan Aug. 28, 2024

Best Fall Family Vacations

Aug. 27, 2024

The Top Fall Festivals in the U.S.

Katie Hearsum and Timothy J. Forster Aug. 27, 2024

Top Music-Themed Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 23, 2024

The Best Rome Tours

Kyle McCarthy and Ann Henson Aug. 23, 2024

How Much Does a Caribbean Cruise ACTUALLY Cost? (Real Examples)

If you are considering a cruise you may be wondering how much Caribbean cruises ACTUALLY cost.

I’ve been on many Caribbean cruises and have spent years learning how to cruise on a budget.

In this post, we will look at the prices of Caribbean cruises on the following cruise lines:

Royal Caribbean

Norwegian cruise line, virgin voyages.

• Carnival Cruise Line

MSC Cruises

• Celebrity Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line

We will also look at how price varies by season and Caribbean region.

It is of course, possible to find cruises which are cheaper, and more expensive than those mentioned in this article – but the cruises mentioned are designed to be representative examples.

How Much Does a Caribbean Cruise Cost?

The average price of a 7-night Caribbean cruise, on a mainstream cruise line, in April is approximately $616 (£493) per person, excluding taxes.

The price increases during August to approximately $773 (£619) per person, excluding taxes. Caribbean cruises in November average $552 (£442) with many as cheap as $399 (£319). 

There are a number of things that impact the price of a Caribbean cruise.

The time of year, cruise line choice and itinerary all also have an impact.

The size and the newness of the ship also have an impact.

A cruise on an older Royal Caribbean ship can be far cheaper than sailing on one of the newer Oasis class ships – Like Wonder Of The Seas,

These prices are based on two sharing and do not include taxes.

If you are booking a Caribbean cruise from outside of the US the price will usually be inclusive of taxes.

7 Night Caribbean Cruises – Cruise Only (No flights)

The table below shows example prices for a selection of Caribbean cruises. These cruises are during the months of April, August and November.

Only one example from each cruise line was used for the comparison, prices do vary even within the cruise line based on the cruise ship but the prices below do provide a good example of what to expect.

Price Variety by Time of Year

Caribbean cruises in peak season (winter).

The peak season for a Caribbean cruise is between December and April.

Many people head to the Caribbean when the weather in the rest of the world gets cold. December to April also avoids the hurricane season.

Benefits of Cruising The Caribbean in Peak Season: 

• Not hurricane season
• Prices are steady
• Good weather
• Little rain

Drawbacks of Cruising The Caribbean in Peak Season:

• Cruise ships are usually full
• Ports can be busy
• Children aren’t off school
• Have to make bookings ahead of time

What’s The Weather Like in The Caribbean in Winter?

The weather in the Caribbean in winter is usually between the mid-70s (f) to mid-80s (f) (21c – 16c)

This makes it very comfortable for exploring and going on excursions.

There is little rainfall at this time of year and the days are usually bright.

I’m from the UK where it usually rains ALL WINTER – having almost guaranteed sunshine is one reason why many people from the UK head to the Caribbean in wintertime.

Caribbean Cruises Over Christmas

Taking any cruise at Christmas can be incredibly expensive.

I’ve taken three Christmas cruises and all three were brilliant. That said, cruising over Christmas can easily be double the cost of cruising in January.

If you can though, I’d definitely recommend it. You don’t have to do the dishes or worry about buying presents for your friends and family, it’s great!

To find out what a Christmas cruise is like, including what MSC think a Christmas dinner is, check out this post:

What is a Christmas Cruise Like? (Onboard Dining, Entertainment and Decorations)

Caribbean Cruises in Spring

Cruising in Spring is a great way to get a slightly cheaper cruise.

The weather is less predictable and the cruise ships and ports tend to be less busy.

The Caribbean is a very popular destination for Spring Break cruises, but apart from this, the spring is less popular with families and children are usually at school.

Benefits of Cruising The Caribbean in The Spring:

• Cheaper than peak season
• Warm weather
• Less busy destinations

Drawbacks of Cruising The Caribbean in The Spring:

• Not in the school holidays
• The weather isn’t the BEST
• Less choice of cruise lines and itineraries

Caribbean Cruises in Summer

Summer is actually the down season for the Caribbean because the temperature increases dramatically and hurricane season runs from June-November.

Many other parts of the world have good weather in summer. Fewer people feel the need to “escape” the bad weather and head to the Caribbean in Summertime.

June can be quite rainy but by August the days usually become sunny and bright with long days.

The prices of cruises do tend to increase in August when the schools break up and demand increases. 

Benefits of Cruising The Caribbean in Summer: 

• Cheap cruises (apart from August)
• Ships aren’t full
• Ports are less busy
• Children are off school for the summer break

Drawbacks of Cruising The Caribbean in Summer: 

• Hot weather (very humid)
• Risk of hurricanes

Caribbean Cruises in the Fall (Peak Hurricane Season)

Hurricane season runs from June until November with October and November usually having the worst weather.

Many people will avoid cruising at this time of year because of this reason.

Cruise ships do a number of things to avoid bad weather, and are very used to dealing with storms, hurricanes and last-minute itinerary changes.

To find out more about what cruise lines do to avoid bad weather, including when they may cancel your cruise, check out this post:  5 Ways Cruise Ships Avoid Bad Weather.

Benefits of Cruising The Caribbean in Fall (Peak Hurricane Season): 

• Cheap cruises
• Ships aren’t full to capacity
• Ports aren’t as busy

Drawbacks of Cruising The Caribbean in Fall (Peak Hurricane Season): 

• Hot weather (humid)
• Children are at school

Price Variety by Cruise Line

There are a number of cruise lines that cruise the Caribbean year-round.

The main cruise lines are Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line , Princess Cruises , Carnival Cruises and MSC Cruises.

There are a number of other cruise lines which offer cruises to the Caribbean but these are the most popular.

Carnival and MSC Cruises

Carnival and MSC are the cheapest cruise lines which cruise the Caribbean.

Both cruise lines do cruise elsewhere but Carnival focus most of their cruises in the US whereas MSC cruises are mostly in Europe.

MSC are an Italian cruise line and the experience onboard is quite different to cruising with an American or British cruise line.

You’ll find a mix of nationalities onboard MSC cruises and the food and entertainment is more ‘Mediterranean’ than you’d find on other lines.

MSC are very popular with families and younger cruisers.

I took a ridiculously cheap cruise on MSC Seaview, just after the pandemic. The cost of the cruise, including flights AND drinks was only £580 ( $750.) Find out why by watching the video below:

I have taken many MSC cruises over the years, and although they are quite different to American cruise lines, i find they offer great value for money.

To learn more about cruising with MSC make sure you check out our recommended cruise line page: Recommended Cruise Lines.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival cruises are all about having fun and being relaxed. The atmosphere onboard is very lively and you’ll find many families and young cruisers cruising with Carnival.

Carnival currently have 25 cruise ships to choose from and you’ll usually find many of these in the Caribbean at any given time.

The oldest ship in the Carnival fleet was built in 1996 and is called the Carnival Sunshine.

Carnival has plans to add new ships to its fleet. Carnival Jubilee sets sail in December 2023 and Carnival Firenze is arriving in 2024.

If you want to party, relax and eat, Carnival cruises are a great option.

Find out about the Carnival cruise i recently took from New York City in the video below:

Princess Cruises

If you are looking for a more relaxing, traditional cruise, Princess cruises are a good option.

Princess are generally targeted towards adults although children are of course welcome.

Princess are a mainstream cruise line with a mid-price point, they’re one of my favourite cruise lines because the quality of entertainment, food and service is always high.

I personally really love the style of the ships and they feel very spacious. Most Princess cruise ships have 4+ swimming pools!

To learn more about why I constantly recommend Princess, check out our recommended cruise lines page here:  Recommended Cruise Lines, Full List

I’ve been on three cruises so far, a cruise across Asia onboard the Golden Princess and two British Isles cruises onboard the Royal Princess and Emerald Princess.

Both were great and I can’t wait to cruise with Princess again.

Discovery Princess is Princess’s newest ship, she set sail in 2022. She has more restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top pool space than many older Princess ships, and I would love to sail on her.

I took a family cruise on the Emerald Princess in 2022. Find out all about that here:

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are two of the biggest American cruise lines. They are possibly some of the most well-known cruise lines that frequently advertise all over the world.

Both cruise lines focus highly on their ships which offer new and exciting features and experiences. They generally focus on the younger cruise/family market but do attract passengers of all ages.

Norwegian Cruise Line cruises worldwide. They focus primarily on freestyle cruising with an emphasis on choice and flexibility.

There are no formal nights onboard and dinner is not served at a set time. I personally love the relaxed, fun nature of Norwegian cruises.

Norwegian are particularly good at catering for solo cruisers, to find out why, check out my recommend cruise lines page here: Recommended Cruise Lines. 

The last cruise I took with Norwegian was on NCL Prima from New York to Bermuda. Find out all about that amazing ship here:

Royal Caribbean have the biggest cruise ships on the market and they constantly fill their ships with new and exciting innovations.

It is almost impossible to be bored on a Royal Caribbean cruise, the daily schedule is busy and there are things going on around the clock.

There are multiple dining options onboard all ships and the food is generally of a high quality.

I recently took a Royal Caribbean cruise on one of the biggest “Oasis Class” ships, Symphony of the Seas.

My cruise onboard Symphony of the Seas was around the Mediterranean – but there was so much going on onboard, I hardly felt the need to leave the ship at all!

Find out all about that cruise here:

Virgin Voyages is an adult-only cruise line, that wishes to attract a younger crowd to the cruising market.

They say they do things differently to the mainstream cruise lines, and regularly sail to Caribbean destinations from Miami.

Nearly every itinerary features a late stay or overnights, so you can explore it all from morning to night (and morning again). We’ve teamed up with locals in each of our ports to reveal sides of places from the people who know the destinations best. Virgin Voyages

Although I have never sailed to the Caribbean on Virgin Voyages, I did test out one of their ships, the Scarlett Lady on a short cruise from the UK.

Virgin Voyages aren’t a traditional cruise line and certainly aren’t for everyone. Find out more about that here:

Price Variety by Itinerary

There are three types of Caribbean cruises:

Generally speaking, Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises are cheaper than Southern.

You’ll find many luxury cruise lines (and British cruise lines) in the southern Caribbean.

The most popular way to visit the Caribbean is on a cruise from the USA. It is also possible to do a transatlantic from Europe which heads straight to the Caribbean.

Price Variety by Cruise Length

A longer cruise is, of course, more expensive than a short cruise. This however doesn’t necessarily work on a proportional basis.

On most cruise lines a 14-night cruise will be less than double the price of a 7-night cruise.

It is considerably easier for the cruise line to keep the same guests onboard than to keep having to change guests.

The day where guests embark and disembark is called turn around day and this is often the busiest day for cruise line staff.

The cruise ship will have to disembark thousands of passengers by around 10 a.m. and will start welcoming new passengers at 12 noon. It’s amazing how it works really!

Other Cruise Lines:

There are a number of other cruise lines which regularly cruise the Caribbean.

One of the most popular is Disney, I’ve not included Disney in this comparison as they are more expensive than the rest of the cruise lines in this list and they would skew the results upwards.

To book a cruise for April, a 7 night Caribbean cruise with Disney is likely to start at around £3228/ $3960!

Celebrity and Holland America

Celebrity Cruises are also frequent cruisers of the Caribbean as well as Holland America line, both of these cruise lines provide a more relaxed slower pace than cruise lines like Carnival or Royal Caribbean.

Celebrity Cruises are usually more expensive than Royal Caribbean even though they are actually owned by Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises are the more luxurious sister.

A 7-night Caribbean cruise in April will realistically set you back $1076 on an older Celebrity ship – or far more on a newer ship.

I recently sailed onboard the wonderful Celebrity Edge. Find out what I thought of her here:

British Cruise Lines

In addition to the American cruise lines mentioned above you’ll find a number of British cruise lines cruising the Caribbean.

These don’t cruise as frequently and many are only in the Caribbean for a portion of the year.

P&O cruises and Cunard both regularly complete transatlantic voyages and Marella can also be found in the Southern Caribbean.

To learn more about these cruise lines, check out our recommend cruise lines page here:

  Recommended Cruise Lines, Full List

Cruise Examples Used – Cruise Only, No Flights

Below are the example cruises used in this post. These are only a few examples and may not be available when you read this post. They provide a pretty good look at the typical pricing:

April Seven-Day Sailings

Oasis of the Seas : Inside cabin from £865/$1060

ROUNDTRIP FROM: Miami, Florida

VISITING: 

• Miami, Florida
• Nassau, Bahamas
• Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
• Labadee, Haiti
• Falmouth, Jamaica

Norwegian Escape : Inside cabin from £815/$997

• Miami, Florida
• Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas
• St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
• Tortola, British Virgin Islands
• Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Carnival Celebration : Inside cabin from £530/ $649

• Miami 
• Amber Cove  
• San Juan 
• St. Thomas  

MSC Seascape : Inside cabin from £579/$709

• Puerto Plata
• Charlotte Amalie

August Seven-Day Sailings

Wonder of the Seas Inside cabin from £1068/$1307

ROUNDTRIP FROM: Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida

• Orlando (Port Canaveral) , Florida
• Perfect Day at CocoCay , Bahamas
• Cozumel , Mexico
• Roatan , Honduras
• Puerto Costa Maya , Mexico

Norwegian Jade: Inside cabin from £813/$995

• Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida
• St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
• San Juan, Puerto Rico

Carnival Magic : Inside cabin from £465/$569

•  Miami 
•  San Juan  
• Grand Turk  
• End: Miami

Before You Go

Find out when is the best time to cruise to get the best value for money in the article below:

When is the Cheapest Month to go on a Cruise? (Real Examples) – Where and When I Travelled

Is it best to book directly with the cruise line or use a trusted travel agent? Find out in the article below:

Is It Best To Use a Travel Agent or Book Directly With The Cruise Line? (Money-Saving Hints and Tips For Booking, and Much More…)

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

This FREE guide shows you everything you need to know to find your perfect cruise line.

Whenever I take a cruise I order a print of my trip. It uses the real satellite data from the cruise and is always a great conversation starter!

I'm building an impressive collection...

Code EMMACRUISES will get you 10% off

How Much Does a Mediterranean Cruise ACTUALLY Cost? (With 21 Examples) – Emma Cruises

Saturday 17th of October 2020

[…] How Much Does a Caribbean Cruise ACTUALLY Cost? (13 Examples) […]

Enter your email address below:

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Book a Flight
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Required Travel Documents
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

How much does a Royal Caribbean cruise cost?

The price* of a Royal Caribbean cruise varies based on several different factors including ship, sail date, length of the cruise and the number of guests per stateroom. Guests can always view the most up to date pricing on our website .

Please note that infants and children are subject to normal guest pricing. However, you may find offers for specific sailings such as 3rd and 4th guest rates at a reduced cost in triple and quad occupancy staterooms (same fare to all 3rd and 4th guests, regardless of age) as well as our Kids Sail Free promotion .

*Prices and offers are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, and may be withdrawn at any time. Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions and to change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice.

Still need help? Contact Us

Get support by phone or email.

Email Your Questions

Locate a Travel Agent

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

How Much a Cruise Costs in 2024

Wondering how much you’ll spend to take a cruise? We have specific estimates (using actual figures from the cruise lines!) below.

Before we get too far, however, you should know that just like buying a car, you can spend as much — or as little — as you want for your vacation .

For instance, are you happy with the lowest-cost interior cabin… or would you rather spend more for a balcony or a suite?

Or are you the sort of person who can only sail during the summer months (when prices are much higher), or can you sail during the off-season and save hundreds of dollars ?

From room types to when you sail to the cruise line you pick, they all have an impact on what you’ll spend.

That means tracking down the specific cost of a cruise for each person is difficult. But we can give you an idea of what a typical trip will cost based on averages and help you know better what you can plan to spend.

We get into all the details of how much a cruise costs — and exactly where you’ll spend money — below. 

In This Article...

Where You’ll Spend Money on a Cruise

Think that the cost of a cruise is simply the fare that you pay to get on the ship? While that makes up the lion’s share of your spending, there’s a lot more that goes into the cost of your vacation.

Cruise Fare Of course, when most people think of the cost of a cruise, they are thinking mainly of the price of the cruise fare. This fare is what the cruise line charges for you to sail on the ship. Cruise fare includes your cabin, most meals, entertainment on the ship, access to pools, lounges, and more.

What it doesn’t include are the extras like alcoholic drinks, specialty restaurants, shore excursions, gambling and other things bought on board.

What you pay for your fare can vary widely. Factors that go into the price include the type of cabin you choose, length of cruise, when you sail, and even the ship and cruise line you sail.

Short cruises on budget cruise lines can run as little as a few hundred dollars, while long luxury trips can run well into the thousands — and even tens of thousands — of dollars per person.

Onboard Spending Think you’re done spending money after you buy your cruise fare? Think again. Once on the ship there are lots of extras that you will likely want to purchase that add to the cost of your cruise.

Onboard spending casts a wide net. It includes everything from money spent gambling in the casino to alcohol, specialty restaurants, cruise line shore excursions, and even the souvenirs you buy in the gift shop.

Just like with the cruise fare, different people will spend different amounts. We’ve personally been on cruises and spent nothing extra on the ship. Other times we’ve spent hundreds.

If you’re frugal, you can get by with spending little. If you want to let loose and have fun, it will add hundreds (and maybe thousands) to your cruise fare. As a rule of thumb, expect to spend between 30-40% of your cruise fare in onboard spending. That’s around what the cruise companies show as the amount earned in onboard spending in their financial reports.

Gratuities If you’ve never sailed on a cruise before, you might be unsure of exactly what gratuities are and how they work.

These days gratuities are automatically charged to your account; everyone pays them. You can choose to prepay them when you buy your cruise, or have them charged to your onboard spending account and pay the balance at the end of your trip.

Rates vary across cruise lines, but are usually around $15 per person, per day. So a couple traveling on a seven-day cruise will pay about $200 in gratuities.

What do the charges go to? They are shared among the staff, with most going to your cabin steward. Waitstaff also receive a significant portion.  (For more on gratuities, see our complete guide here .)

Getting to the Ship (Transportation, Parking, Hotel) Whether you fly, ride, or drive to the port, you will have some more expenses that you have to consider for your budget.

Getting a ride to the port? Don’t forget to factor in the cost of transportation to get to and from the cruise ship.

Driving to the port? If so, know that most ports charge around $20 per day to park (although some hotels and independent parking lots offer discounted rates).

If you fly in for your cruise, then you need to factor in your airfare. We also suggest anyone flying in to arrive the day before you sail and get a hotel room, just to avoid any delays that might cause you to miss your ship.

Spending in Port Finally, the last part of your budget to consider is what you spend in port. Most of the time, this is actually relatively little as so much time is spent on the ship.

Excursions not booked through the cruise line would be in this section (those booked through the cruise line are onboard spending, mentioned above). Your port spending also includes things you do in port like catching a taxi to a beach, food and drink at a restaurant, or buying souvenirs. 

One Note About Cruising in 2024

Of course the world has changed since the health crisis. Nowhere is that more the case than with cruising. The entire industry was shut down for almost all of 2020 and slowly made its return in 2021. After 2023, we can say that cruising is back with ships sailing at full capacity.

But just like on land, but there are bigger changes that could impact the cost of a cruise going forward.

Longer-Term Pricing During the stop, the major cruise companies took on massive amounts of debt to survive. Now as cruising resumes, they are focused on improving their balance sheets. That has meant higher pricing, if the market allows. Cruise lines have said repeatedly that demand is strong and onboard spending is at considerably higher levels than before the pause.

As well, several cruise lines sold off a number older, smaller ships. In general, older ships offer lower pricing. Along with the removal of older ships, new ships have come onto the market such as Carnival Celebration and Jubilee, as well as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.

With more newer ships priced at a premium and a push to shore up balance sheets, longer term pricing seems likely to rise.

Inflation Pressures The biggest economic story of 2022 was inflation, and it didn’t stop at the water’s edge. It’s a worldwide issue that also impact cruise lines. Prices for many things, including services like wi-fi on cruise ships and gratuity charges have increased.

The good news is that following strong price increases since cruising returned, anecdotally it seems that the hikes have calmed for now. That said, don’t be surprised if prices still climb some in the coming year.

Average Total Cost of a Cruise in 2024

So with all these different things to spend money on, how much does it cost to take a cruise?

As we mentioned above, the cost of your specific cruise will vary. Those who want an interior cabin will spend less than those sailing a suite. And people who can sail during the spring or fall will save hundreds versus sailing in the summer.

But we have some estimates below to give you an idea of the cost of taking a cruise.

Cruise Fare ($150-$245 per day) Obviously it’s impossible to give you a specific cost of your cruise fare. There are so many different factors that go into what you’ll pay, including:

• Cruise line
• Specific ship
• Date of cruise
• Trip length 

That means the price you pay will see a wide range . Sailings can be less than $100 per person, per day, into several hundreds of dollars each day.

That said, we can get a good idea of what you’ll spend. All the major cruise lines are public companies that publish annual figures for their revenue and passenger statistics.

From these public reports, we know that the average cost of cruise fare runs from about $150-$245 per person, per day (depending on cruise company). 

For example, in the trailing 12 months (the latest data available publicly), Carnival Corporation — which owns several different lines including Carnival, Princess, Cunard, and others — took in $12.8 billion in ticket revenue, and sailed 86.0 million passenger days. That comes out to $149 per person, per day.

Royal Caribbean Group was slightly higher based on their last 12 months of financial reports, ($175 per person, per day), and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. came in at the top of our list ($245 per person, per day).

Of course, those figures are averages across the entire company. Specific cruises can be much lower… or much higher… depending on your specifics. For example, sailing an interior cabin is drastically cheaper than sailing in a balcony room. And cruises departing in January or February are less expensive than sailing at the height of summer.

Still, these figures should give you a good idea of the average cost of a cruise based on what others pay across different cruise companies.

Port Fees and Taxes (~$100-$200 per person)

Port fees and taxes aren’t technically part of your cruise fare, but they are included in what you pay before you board. 

So how much will you pay?

The amount varies depending on your specific route as different ports charge different fees. In our experience, for most cruises expect to spend between $100 and $200 per person on these fees and taxes. Some cruises with fewer ports will be less.

As a rule of thumb, the more ports of call, the higher these fees can be. On some cruises they can definitely be more than $200, but we’ve rarely seen them below $100 — except for some of the shortest trips with only one or two stops. 

Onboard Spending (~$85-$120 per day) By far the biggest expense of taking a cruise is the fare, but onboard spending can be a considerable chunk of change.

So how much will you spend? We dove into detail about spending on a cruise ship before . Cruise lines also break down how much cruise passengers spend in their financial reports. On average across cruise lines, the amount comes out to between $85-120 per person, per day.

Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean Group saw an average around $85 per person, per day in the last year. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. saw closer to $120 per person each day. 

But you should know that this doesn’t mean you’ll be spending that much each day. With the accounting rules used by the cruise lines, sometimes money spent before you get on the ship is actually classified as “onboard and other” spending .

So if you buy a bundle package that includes your cruise fare and drink package, wi-fi, and other goodies (such as NCL’s “Free at Sea” offer) all in one transaction, some of that is considered onboard spending and some is the cruise fare.

As well, keep in mind that this is simply an average across all cruise passengers and major cruise lines. What you spend could be drastically different. For instance, some people spend little or no money on the ship. Others purchase drink packages, gamble in the casino, and generally live it up the entire trip.

In fact, onboard spending is the area where you have the most control over what you’ll spend . 

Gratuities (~$16-20 per day) Yes, you can adjust the amount of gratuities if your service is particularly poor. In reality, not many people do. Expect to spend about $16-20 per person, per day.

Gratuities may be slightly higher or lower depending on the cruise line. As well, suites have higher gratuity rates compared to lower-tier cabins. So while you might pay $16 per day for a normal cabin, that amount might be $18 per day (or more) if staying in a suite.

Note that this amount doesn’t include gratuities charged for extras like alcoholic beverages on the ship. Those are extra in addition to the automatic gratuities charged to each passenger that go to the waitstaff and room steward.

Getting to the Ship/Parking/Hotel (Varies) The amount that it will cost you to get to the ship, park, and/or a hotel stay will vary based on your needs.

Some people just get dropped off at the port by a friend or family member, so it costs them nothing. Others have to book a cross-country flight and a hotel stay the night before. 

If you drive to the port, plan to spend around $20 per day for parking, depending on the port. Hotels in most port cities can be found for between $150-250 per night. Rides to the port using services like a taxi or Uber/Lyft can vary considerably depending on where you are coming from. Still, you don’t want to forget these considerable expenses in cruising.

Spending in Port (~$50 per port) What you spend in port can vary widely. Remember anything you eat or drink off the ship will come out of pocket and isn’t included in your cruise fare. As well, things like taxis and souvenirs are also extra.

As a rule of thumb, we estimate a budget of about $50 per person, per port of call. For some ports that may be too much. For instance, cruise line private islands often have much of what you need already included. Other ports might include a stop at a restaurant, some souvenir shopping, and buying drinks.

Summing Up the Total Cost of a Cruise

So what’s the grand total?

The chart below lays out the costs of taking a cruise, using the estimated amounts mentioned above. We’ve also laid out the estimates for both a shorter cruise (five days) and the traditional seven-day trip.

Keep in mind that these are just estimates, per person . A couple would expect to double these prices.

As well, remember that what you spend will vary widely based on any number of factors , including your own budgeting for the trip and how much you let loose on your vacation.

Sailing in the off-season like January or February? Then your cruise fare can be considerably less than average. Are you a big spender on the ship? Then your vacation will obviously end up costing more.

But as you can see, on a per-person basis the cost for a 7-day cruise can run around $2,000 when you factor in everything you’ll spend. Shorter cruises will run around $1,500 . 

More on Budgeting for a Cruise:

• 30+ Tips to Save Money On a Cruise
• 10 Rules to Getting the Best Deal on a Cruise

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, explained: differences between large and small(er) cruise ships, the cheapest u.s. cruises for all of 2025 (starting at under $200), 10 cheap cruises under $550 per person (taxes & fees included), why people love cruises: 68 best reasons to take a cruise, answered: what is a good price for a cruise (caribbean, alaska, & europe), 12 cruises under $300 per person (updated).

Thank you for breaking down the costs of cruising. Thank goodness I’m good at researching as I’ve done for my upcoming 1st solo cruise to the Mediterranean for 11 days.

Thanks for also talking about the expenses that are counted per head when going on a cruise tour. I plan to look for a good cruise tour ticket soon because I’m thinking about finding a good way to unwind with my family. Going on a long trip might be a good idea.

Please inform if there is any cruise ship between MUMBAI, India and Dubai between december2023 and February 2024

I am a widower. It is really comforting to know there are ways for me to enjoy travelling by myself without having to pay for two!!! So nice to know I can travel again without going bankrupt!!!

I need information about cruise from South Africa to Mozambique for five days

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

12+ Fun Cheap (or FREE) Things to Do in Nassau on a Cruise

How to enjoy cococay… without spending a dime, how to watch football on a cruise (nfl and college games), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• Don't Miss Out on Exclusive Labor Day Cruise Deals !
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Poesia Mediterranean Cruises for 2024
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Sailings from New York
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Euribia Northern Europe Cruises for 2024
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral
• Discover Exclusive Offers and Special Deals on MSC Cruise Deals
• Deal of the Week
• +1 (866) 622-3344

• Top Cruise Destinations
• All Cruise Destinations
• Top Departure Ports
• All Departure Ports
•  Ocean Cruises
•  River Cruises
•  Cruise Length
•  2 to 3 nights
•  4 to 6 nights
•  7 to 9 nights
•  10 to 13 nights
•  14 and more nights
• All Cruise Lines
• Cruise Booking
• Cruise Articles
• Cruise Holidays

How much does a 1 week cruise cost?

Find out how much does a 1 week cruise costs to have the best time with your family and friends.

Explore Latest Cruise Itineraries Here

Find out how much does a 1 week all-inclusive cruise for 2024 costs to have the best time with your family and friends.

Book Your Cruise Holiday Package

You're planning a cruise holiday but have no clue how much it will cost or what to budget for. This is a typical issue among first-time travelers who want to attempt cruising but are concerned about the cost. The average price of items such as vehicles, televisions, eateries, and watches can all have a significant impact on your choice to make a purchase.

• The Cruise Line Influences the Pricing

Types of Cruise Cabin

• Time of Cruise
• Ports of Departure

Onboard Spending

What is the average cost of a cruise for 2 people.

• Other Fees & Extra Costs You Will Have to Pay on a Cruise

How to Book a Budgeted 7-Day Cruise: 10 Tips to Get a Great Cruise Deal!

• How Much Does a Cruise to the Bahamas Cost?
• How Much Does a 3-Day Cruise Cost?
• How Much Does a Cruise Ship Vacation Cost?
• How Much Does a Disney Cruise Cost?
• What Would Be the Wonder of the Seas Ticket Price per Person?
• What Is the Symphony of the Seas Ticket Price?
• What Is the Quantum of the Seas Ticket Price?
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost for One Person?
• How Much Does a 7-Day Royal Caribbean Cruise Cost?
• What Is the Cost of a 7-Night Cruise in 2024?
• How Much Does a River Cruise Cost per Person?
• How Much Does a 4-Day Cruise Cost?

How much does a 7-day cruise cost per person?

Even if we restrict ourselves to a seven-night trip, the price might range from a few hundred dollars to more than $10,000. Not to mention other fees such as travel and activities in ports of call . Here is a rundown of what to consider to get an estimate of how much a cruise costs.

The cruise line influences the pricing

The cruise company you pick, like automobile manufacturers, may have a big influence on the cruise ticket you'll spend for a 7-night vacation. Norwegian Cruise Line , Carnival Cruise Line , and Royal Caribbean International will give an average pricing that should match most budgets.

These popular lines include affordable American cruise lines , which often offer extremely low rates but can see prices rise if you choose to sail in a more costly cabin. Naturally, major cruise lines don't include as much in their cruise tickets. They like to allow the traveler to choose whatever extras, such as alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi, shore excursions , and so on, to purchase in addition to the cruise ticket. It's worth noting that cruise operators nearly usually charge for a double occupancy cruise cabin. Some ships provide studio cabins, but if you're traveling alone, expect to pay for a second passenger whether you have one or not.

How Much Is a Cruise for 7 Nights?

Most cruise lines charge between $400 and $4,000 for a 7-night Caribbean trip in a balcony stateroom. Remember that these cruise costs are only estimates, and that prices can vary greatly based on the cabin style, time of year, number of individuals in the room, as well as cabin placement. If you're not sure where to begin when it comes to selecting a cruise, CruiseBooking.com will be a great asset to work with during the cruise planning stage. A travel agency like CruiseBooking.com can not only assist you in selecting the correct cruise line, but they can also save you cash and even provide you with extra onboard amenities.

Premium and luxury cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises , Celestyal Cruises , Celebrity Cruises , and Holland America Line , will almost certainly charge more, but they frequently offer more in their cruise fare. Furthermore, you may be able to discover more opulent accommodations to pick from.

The average price of your 7-day cruise will be heavily influenced by whether you choose an inside cabin, a balcony, or a suite. Inside rooms are likely to be less expensive than balcony rooms, just as a tiny automobile is likely to be less expensive than a full-size sedan. Suites will raise the price even more.

On most ships, there are four types of cabins:

• Room with an ocean view
• Suite: Each ship may offer different levels of suites depending on the cruise line. Suites usually also include additional onboard amenities.

A balcony cabin is frequently the greatest bargain since it gives more living space and a separate veranda without breaking the bank for most individuals. 

Also Check: What Kind of Cruise Travel Insurance Do You Need?

Time of cruise

• When you choose to sail might also have an influence on finding the greatest bargains. Typically, lower pricing may be obtained during hurricane season, when there is less demand for a cruise.
• Furthermore, cooler weather is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a decent deal. Shoulder season is at the beginning or conclusion of a cruise season when demand is low, generally due to less-than-ideal weather.
• Higher rates frequently follow popular vacation seasons, such as summer or Christmas. Peak-season cruises are often more expensive than off-season cruises.

Consider the demand for that time of year and compare costs earlier and later in the season to determine whether you may save a lot of money.

Ports of departure

It's no secret that cruise itineraries have several departure ports . When it comes to the Caribbean, Florida alone has six ports: Port of Miami, Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), Tampa, and Port of Palm Beach. But we must not overlook cities outside of Florida, such as New Orleans, Alabama, Charleston, Galveston, and South Carolina. Cruises from departure locations with older ships are often less costly.

Our best advice is to engage with a professional travel agent to help you sort through all of your possibilities. There are so many variables to consider that a travel professional may assist in simplifying the process while avoiding errors along the way.

If the smallest amount you can afford for a 7-day cruise is just not feasible, you may always opt for a shorter trip to assist reduce the whole holiday cost.

Onboard spending on a cruise encompasses various expenses beyond the initial ticket price. These expenses are not included in a cruise cost:

• Port Fees and Taxes: Often charged per cruiser, covering costs associated with port usage.
• Ship Operations: Involves ship maintenance, fuel, payroll, and other operational expenses.
• Dining: Specialty restaurants, beverages beyond basic offerings.
• Activities: Excursions, spa services, fitness classes.
• Shopping: Souvenirs, duty-free items.
• Entertainment: Shows, casinos, onboard events.
• Internet and Communication : Wi-Fi services.
• Onboard Credit: Some cruise packages include onboard credit that passengers can use for various expenses during the cruise.
• Cash Considerations: While many expenses are billed to the cabin, having some cash can be useful for tipping, small purchases in ports, or other personal preferences.

Gratuities on a cruise refer to the customary tips provided to cruise ship staff for their services. Typically charged per person daily, these gratuities cover various onboard services, including cabin steward, dining room staff, and other service personnel. The amounts vary but often range from $10 to $15 per person per day. Some cruise lines automatically add these gratuities to passengers' onboard accounts, while others allow guests to adjust or prepay them. Passengers must know the cruise line's gratuity policy and consider budgeting for these tips as part of the overall cost. Additionally, some luxury cruises may include gratuities in the upfront fare. Understanding and adhering to the cruise line's gratuity practices contribute to a positive and seamless cruise experience for passengers and crew members.

The average cruise cost for two people in 2024 can vary based on factors such as cruise line, duration, cabin type, and destination. As per the provided search results, the average price for a seven-day cruise is around $1,500 per person, totaling $3,000 for a couple. It's essential to note that this is a general estimate, and actual costs may differ.

Additionally, guests often spend extra on onboard expenses such as drinks, excursions, specialty dining, and gratuities. On average, guests may spend around $680 on these extras, adding $1,360 for a couple.

Factors influencing costs include:

• The cruise line's reputation
• The ship's amenities
• The chosen cabin category (inside, oceanview, balcony, or suite)
• The cruise itinerary

Luxury cruise lines and longer itineraries tend to have higher costs. It's advisable to check with specific cruise lines, travel agencies, or online platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing based on individual preferences and requirements.

Other Fees & Extra Costs You Will Have To Pay For Before Setting Sail On a Cruise

When looking for all-inclusive best cruise deals , it's essential to consider various fees and extra costs that may arise before setting sail. Here are some common ones to keep in mind:

1. Cruise Fare: The cruise fare is the base cost of your ticket, which covers accommodation, meals, and most onboard activities. The fare varies based on the cruise line, ship, cabin type, and itinerary.

2. Port Taxes and Fees: These charges are levied by the ports and local authorities and are usually included in the overall cruise fare. They cover the use of port facilities and services.

3. Gratuities or Service Charges: Most cruise lines add an automatic daily gratuity or service charge to your onboard account. This fee is distributed among service staff, such as cabin stewards, waitstaff, and housekeeping. The amount can vary, but it is often around $10 to $15 per person per day.

4. Excursions: Shore excursions are organized activities and tours at each port of call. These can include guided city tours, water sports, cultural experiences, and more. Excursions typically have an additional cost and vary depending on the activity and destination.

5. Specialty Dining: While cruise ships offer complimentary dining options, some specialty restaurants or dining venues may have an extra fee. These specialty venues often offer gourmet cuisine or unique dining experiences, and the additional charges can range from a few dollars to a significant amount.

6. Beverages: Non-alcoholic beverages like water, coffee, and tea are usually included in the cruise fare. However, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, and other drinks often incur additional charges. Some cruise lines offer beverage packages that provide unlimited drinks for a fixed fee.

7. Spa and Salon Services: Cruise ships feature spas, salons, and fitness centers offering various services such as massages, facials, hair styling, and fitness classes. These services generally come at an extra cost, which can vary.

8. Wi-Fi and Internet Access: While some cruise lines offer limited complimentary internet access, faster or unlimited packages often involve an additional fee. The cost for internet access can vary based on the cruise line and the duration of your trip.

9. Onboard Activities and Entertainment: While many onboard activities are included in the cruise fare, some entertainment options may have additional fees. These include premium theater shows, casinos, specialty classes (e.g., art, dance, cooking), and sports activities like rock climbing or go-karting.

10. Onboard Shopping: Cruise ships have shops and boutiques to purchase clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and duty-free items. These purchases are not included in the cruise fare and will incur extra costs.

It's essential to review the specific details and terms your chosen cruise line provides to understand all potential fees and extra costs before embarking on your journey.

1. Book Early: Take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions. Cruise lines often offer reduced fares and added perks for booking in advance.

2. Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Consider traveling during the off-peak or shoulder seasons when prices are typically lower. Avoiding holidays and school vacation periods can help you secure better deals.

3. Research Multiple Cruise Lines: Compare prices, itineraries, and offerings from different cruise lines. Each company has its own pricing structure and promotions, so researching multiple options can help you find the best value for your money.

4. Opt for Inside Cabins or Lower Deck Rooms: Cabins with a view or balcony tend to be more expensive. Choosing an inside cabin or a room on a lower deck can significantly lower your overall cruise cost while still providing a comfortable place to rest.

5. Avoid Costly Excursions: While shore excursions can enhance your experience, they can also be expensive. Consider exploring ports of call independently or researching cheaper alternatives, such as local transportation or self-guided tours.

6. Set a Budget for Onboard Spending: Determine how much you're willing to spend on extras like specialty dining, beverages, spa services, and shopping. Having a budget in mind helps you avoid overspending and allows you to prioritize where you want to allocate your funds.

7. Take Advantage of Drink Packages: If you enjoy alcoholic or specialty beverages, consider purchasing a drink package . Cruise lines often offer packages that include unlimited drinks for a fixed price, which can be more cost-effective if you plan to indulge.

8. Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Most cruise lines allow guests to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. Packing bottled water, soda, or juice can save you from purchasing these items at inflated prices on the ship.

9. Research Port Parking Options: If you're driving to the departure port, compare parking rates at different facilities. Some off-site parking lots near the port offer discounted rates and shuttle services, which can be more affordable than parking directly at the cruise terminal.

10. Monitor Onboard Expenses: Regularly check your onboard account to keep track of your spending. Reviewing your charges allows you to catch any billing errors and helps you stay within your budget.

Remember, saving money on a cruise doesn't mean compromising the overall experience. By being mindful of your expenses and making strategic choices, you can enjoy a fantastic cruise vacation while staying within your budget.

FAQs for Cruise Vacation Cost

1. How much does a cruise to the Bahamas cost?

2. How much does a 3-day cruise cost?

3. How much does a cruise ship vacation cost?

4. How much does a Disney cruise cost?

5. What would be the Wonder of the Seas ticket price per person?

6. What is the Symphony Of The Seas ticket price?

7. What is the Quantum Of The Seas ticket price?

8. How Much Does a Cruise Cost for One Person?

9. How Much Does a 7-Day Royal Caribbean Cruise Cost?

10. What Is the Cost of a 7-Night Cruise in 2024?

11. How Much Does a River Cruise Cost per Person?

The cost of a river cruise per person in various places across the world is shown below. Read our article to know more.

European River Cruises:

• Standard: Starting at $250 per person per night.
• Luxury: Up to $1500 per person per night.

USA River Cruises:

• Prices: $300 to $400, covering various amenities.

Amazon River Cruises:

• Average: Starts at $500 per person per night, potentially exceeding $1000.

Asia River Cruises:

• Standard: $300 per person per night, potentially reaching $400 during peak times.

12. How Much Does a 4-Day Cruise Cost?

How to get the best price for a cruise?

Book Your Cruise The cost of a cruise appears to vary from day to day, with various guests paying somewhat different costs and receiving various benefits for the same kind of vacation. This [...]

December 08, 2023

What is a cruise to nowhere?

Book Your Cruise Even while it might seem unusual to want to take a cruise that goes nowhere, doing so gives travelers a quick escape. It will expose you to the idea of taking a cruise, give you [...]

What is the average cost of a Disney Cruise?

Book Disney Cruises Disney Cruise Line is a Florida-based cruise line that was started in 1994 and is the subsidiary firm of 'The Walt Disney.' The cruise line is well-known for offering [...]

May 22, 2024

What Kind of Cruise Travel Insurance Do You Need?

Book A Cruise Now For a successful and fun filled cruise vacation it requires good planning but apart from enjoying several things during vacation it is important to have travel insurance. The [...]

June 27, 2023

Cruise Inquiry

Our cruise experts will help you to plan your perfect cruise vacation!

* I consent to receive communications by email or phone. I understand I may opt out at any time using the unsubscribe link provided in all communications. Please proceed to the Privacy Policy page or read our Terms & Conditions to understand how your data might be used.

We use cookies to enhance site functionality & browsing experience.

How Much Is a Cruise to the Bahamas? (2024)

• March 3, 2024
• Cruise Planning

From pristine sandy beaches to endless shopping, the Bahamas is one of the most popular cruise destinations. So, you might be wondering: how much is a cruise to the Bahamas? The cost of a cruise to the Bahamas depends on many factors, such as the cruise line, length of your cruise, type of cabin selected, and destinations visited.

Many people don’t realize that the base fare is just the starting cost. You’ll need to factor in additional expenses such as transportation, shore excursions, onboard spending, and gratuities. Also, the price of a Bahamas cruise can fluctuate based on the time of year, with peak seasons often resulting in higher prices.

What Is the Average Cost of a Cruise to the Bahamas?

The average cost for a 6- to 7-day Bahamas cruise on mainstream lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean is approximately $576 per person, with an average price per night of around $96. These cruise prices generally range from $500 to $700, though this can vary by cruise line.

Keep in mind that the prices listed in the comparison are just the starting prices. Cruises are rarely all-inclusive, so you’ll need to budget for things such as gratuities, port fees, taxes, onboard spending, and Wi-Fi. Additionally, the prices listed are for basic interior cabins. If you prefer an ocean view or balcony, it will cost you more. So, while the comparison provides a helpful starting point, the actual cost of your cruise will be higher once you add in all these extras.

Cruises to the Bahamas are typically cheaper than those to other destinations. This is mostly due to its close proximity to popular US ports ( Nassau is only 186 mi/296 km from Miami) and the larger number of cruise lines competing in the region.

The timing of your cruise will also affect the price. Cruises to the Bahamas are usually more affordable during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. This is because there’s a higher risk of storms, and fewer travelers are willing to book their trips during this time. As a result, cruise lines lower their prices to attract more guests. While you can save money by traveling during this period, it’s also a good idea to be prepared for any changes in your cruise itinerary due to bad weather .

Prices Differ Between Cruise Lines

Mainstream, premium, and luxury cruise lines

Cruise lines fall into three basic tiers: mainstream, premium, and luxury. Each tier provides a different level of service, features, and as a result, comes with different price tags.

Mainstream cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, P&O, Holland America Line, and MSC, are the most budget-friendly options and appeal to a wide range of people. They are especially great for families due to the wide range of activities for kids onboard. The cost of these cruises usually falls between $50 and $500 per night.

Premium cruise lines, like Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Virgin Voyages, and Celebrity Cruises, offer a more upscale experience with extra attention to food, service, and cabin quality, which means they are pricier. The price for these cruises typically ranges from $300 to $800 per night.

Luxury cruise lines, such as Silversea, Viking Cruises, Oceania Cruises, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, represent the highest tier, providing an all-encompassing experience with individualized service and exclusive features, leading to the highest prices. These cruises generally cost between $550 to $1,200 per night.

What does the cruise fare cover?

One aspect that differs across cruise lines is what’s included in the cruise fare price. Typically, mainstream cruise lines offer lower initial prices, but you’ll find yourself paying more for amenities such as drinks, internet access, and shore excursions.

On the other hand, premium cruise lines are usually all-inclusive, meaning gourmet dining, premium beverages, shore excursions, and gratuities are included in the price . While this greatly improves the experience, these cruises usually have a higher initial cost.

Factor in the cruise ship age

The cruise ship’s age also plays a role in how much a cruise will cost. Newer ships, equipped with the latest features and technology, usually charge more. For instance, a 7-night Bahamas cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas (launched in 2017) starts at $851. However, a similar itinerary on Radiance of the Seas (launched in 2000) has a much lower price of around $600.

Cabin Selection Impacts Pricing

The cost of your cruise can greatly depend on the type of cabin you pick. Cruise ships offer a range of cabins, from inside cabins (with no windows) to ocean view cabins (with a window or small porthole), balcony cabins, and suites (bigger rooms with more perks). Naturally, the fancier the room, the more you’ll pay. The most budget-friendly cabins are the inside and ocean view cabins, while suites will set you back the most.

Where your room is located on the ship can also change the price. Rooms on the higher floors or in preferred spots, like the center of the ship, usually cost more. Think about what’s most important to you in your cruise experience—like comfort, ocean views, or extra amenities—and how much you’re willing to spend on those. While some individuals may find it worthwhile to splurge a bit, others may not see the value in doing so.

If you’re cruising alone, you should know about the single supplement fee. This charge comes into play because cruise prices are typically calculated for two people sharing a room. If only one person stays in a room, the cruise line misses out on money they would have made from a second guest. To make up for this, they add a single supplement fee, which could be up to 80% to 100% of the rate. This means solo travelers might pay as much as two people would for the same room.

Transportation Will Impact the Overall Cost

When budgeting your cruise, an important factor to consider is the cost of transportation to the port. Opting to drive to a nearby port can result in substantial savings compared to purchasing plane tickets and covering other travel expenses. While driving is typically more economical, it’s important to factor in expenses such as fuel and port parking fees, which can contribute to overall costs.

For travelers flying to the port, ticket prices can vary widely. Cruises to the Bahamas often depart from east coast cities such as Miami, New York, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale. In the United States, a flight to Miami may range from $200 to $500, while international travelers can expect higher costs. Upon arrival, additional expenses include transportation from the airport to the port, with options like shuttles, taxis, or rideshare services like Uber offering varying price points. For example, a shuttle from Miami airport to the port typically costs around $17, a taxi approximately $30, and an Uber close to $20.

It’s advisable to arrive at the departure city at least a day before the cruise to avoid any travel delays. This means you’ll also need to factor in the cost of an overnight hotel stay, which could be around $150 for a moderate hotel in Miami. Overall, before setting foot on the cruise, anticipate spending between $500 and $800 for travel and accommodation expenses.

Factor in Onboard Expenses to the Cost

While cruises offer many activities to keep you busy and entertained, it’s important to remember that some experiences come with an extra cost. Extras such as specialty restaurants, beverages, and internet access will require an additional fee. Planning for these onboard expenses in advance can help you manage your budget better and ensure you enjoy your cruise without financial stress or unexpected surprises.

Drink packages

A common extra expense comes from drink packages. These packages can add a lot to the total cost of your cruise trip. For instance, some cruise lines offer soda plans, and others have more expensive packages that cover alcoholic drinks. Keep in mind that most cruise lines (such as Royal Caribbean) have a policy requiring all adults in the same cabin to purchase a drink package. This rule is in place to discourage sharing.

Typically, alcoholic drink packages are priced at around $50-75 per day, and have a limit of up to 15 drinks daily. Soda plans are more budget-friendly, costing about $10 per day. To cut costs, you might consider bringing your own beverages onboard, though some cruise lines, like NCL, might not allow this or have certain limitations.

Specialty restaurants

You’ll find many places to eat on your cruise ship, including some specialty restaurants that provide a fancier dining experience than the main dining rooms, but for an extra fee.

When sailing with Royal Caribbean, besides the main dining area, you can experience different kinds of food at specialty restaurants for an extra charge, depending on the ship. These restaurants, like “Chops Grille” with its top-notch steaks and seafood, “Giovanni’s Table” for a real Italian meal, and “Izumi” for fresh sushi and Japanese dishes, offer a more private and exclusive atmosphere.

Onboard activities and entertainment

While your cruise ticket will include a lot of fun activities and entertainment, some special activities will cost extra. This might mean paying for wine tastings, cooking lessons, unique attractions like Royal Caribbean’s FlowRider, or private tours that show you how things work behind the scenes. These special onboard activities typically cost between $20 and $100 per person.

Gratuities are another cost you might run into on your cruise. Often, cruise lines will automatically add a service charge to your bill as a way of tipping the crew for their service. Gratuities can vary from $14 to $20 for each person, each day, based on which cruise you choose and the type of room you stay in.

Internet packages

In today’s world, everyone wants to stay connected, even while on a cruise to the Bahamas. Royal Caribbean’s internet package, known as VOOM, will set you back about $20 per day, whereas Carnival has internet packages starting at $13 per day, with faster options costing about $21. The cost might vary depending on how many people are using the internet, how many devices are connected, and how much data you use. Also, expect that the internet might be slower than what you’re used to at home.

Factor in Bahamas Shore Excursion Costs

When planning a cruise to the Bahamas, it’s important to consider how much you’ll spend on shore excursions. Unlike other cruise destinations, such as Alaska or the Mediterranean, the Bahamas isn’t known for its shore excursions. This means that if you’re cruising to the Bahamas, you probably won’t end up spending as much on these extra activities. Shore excursions can really add to the overall cost of a cruise, so this could be good news for your budget.

Cruises to the Bahamas often include stops at private islands like CocoCay, Princess Cays, or Half Moon Cay . While these destinations do offer activities like snorkeling and horseback riding, most visitors are content with simply relaxing and enjoying the Caribbean sun on the beautiful beaches. In the Bahamas, the focus is more on relaxation than packing your schedule with excursions. This laid-back approach helps keep your expenses down since you’re not constantly paying for additional activities.

In Nassau, one of the most popular shore excursions is a visit to the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island, especially its famous waterpark. Prices for a day pass to the waterpark can vary, but expect to spend around $120 to $150 per person. Another popular option is the Nassau historical sightseeing tours, which are more affordable, generally costing about $45 to $60 per person. These tours give you a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Bahamas without breaking the bank.

Freeport offers a different vibe with its own set of popular excursions. Here, nature tours and beach outings are common choices. For example, a half-day tour to Lucayan National Park, where you can explore one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world, will cost around $50 to $70 per person. Beach excursions, where you can relax on pristine beaches or engage in watersports, typically range from $35 to $55 per person, making for a reasonably priced day out.

Bimini, being one of the less popular stops on Bahamian ports , is famous for its snorkeling excursions. Prices for such snorkeling adventures can range from $90 to $120 per person. Another option is a guided tour of the island itself, showcasing its history, culture, and natural beauty, usually costing between $40 and $60 per person.

Overall, while the Bahamas may not be as excursion-centric as other cruise destinations, there are still plenty of things to do. Usually, shore excursions offered directly from the cruise line are more expensive, though you’re guaranteed to get back on the ship, and they’re usually more reliable. If you decide you want to relax, you can spend the remaining money you’d otherwise spend on shore excursions on other things, such as spa treatments or fine dining experiences. 

When You Book Affects the Cost

Book early to save money.

Reserving your Bahamas cruise well before the departure date can usually get you lower prices. It’s commonly advised to book your trip between 50 and 90 days before it begins to snag the best rates. This strategy works since cruise lines want to ensure their rooms are filled long before setting sail, so they offer enticing discounts to those who book early. By doing so, you not only cut down on your expenses but also have a better choice of rooms and spots on the ship.

Book last-minute to save money

If you’re flexible with your travel plans, you’re likely to cut costs by reserving your Bahamas cruise close to the departure date. As the time to set sail nears and cruise lines aim to book all the empty rooms, they might lower the prices. But remember, while booking at the last minute can save you money, it usually means you have fewer options for room types. You could also end up in a spot on the ship that’s not as nice.

Cruise ship ticket prices increase over time

Keep in mind that the cost of cruise tickets usually increases as the date of departure gets closer. This happens because of the basic rule of supply and demand; as more cabins get booked and there are fewer available, the prices rise. So, if you wait too long hoping for a discount, you might end up paying more or not getting a spot on the cruise if it fills up. To steer clear of these increases in price, book your Bahamas cruise early or very close to the departure date.

Season Affects the Cost

When planning a cruise to the Bahamas, the season or time of year can significantly impact the overall cost of your trip. Certain times of the year see reduced demand, resulting in lower prices, while peak vacation times drive prices up.

Generally, during the hurricane season, spanning from June 1st to November 30th, Bahamas cruise prices are much lower. Cruise lines lower prices to attract more travelers who might be deterred by the possibility of storms and rain, providing a more budget-friendly vacation alternative. While this can result in considerable savings, be prepared for possible itinerary changes, occasional downpours, and rough waters. 

The peak season, lasting from mid-December to April, sees a spike in cruise prices. This increase is driven by higher demand, as many travelers seek to escape colder climates or take advantage of school breaks. Prices tend to peak around major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, when families are more likely to travel together. 

For a good deal, consider booking your Bahamas cruise during the shoulder season. The shoulder season occurs between the peak and off seasons, when demand is lower. Opting for a cruise during the shoulder season can offer a more cost-effective way to enjoy the beauty of the Bahamas without the hefty price tag associated with peak travel times.

Keep in Mind Special Offers and Discounts

Discounts for kids.

Families can save money when they take advantage of special discounts for kids. Sometimes, children can even cruise without any charge. For example, MSC Cruises frequently has special deals that let kids under 12 cruise for free when sharing a cabin with two paying adults. Additionally, NCL sometimes has special deals where kids can cruise for free as part of their “Free at Sea” promotions, which helps make vacations more budget-friendly for families. These deals can change depending on the cruise and what’s available, so it’s a good idea to check with the cruise line or talk to a travel agent to get the most recent information.

Loyalty programs offer frequent discounts

Joining loyalty programs offered by cruise lines like Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society or Carnival’s VIFP Club is a great choice for people who often go on cruises. Being a member of these programs can get you discounts, credits to use on the ship, and other bonuses as you move up in levels, which can help you save money over time.

Special discounts for military, seniors, and police officers

Some cruise lines offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, teachers, emergency service workers, and more. It’s a good idea to ask about these discounts when you’re planning your cruise because they can help you save a fair amount of money.

For example, Royal Caribbean has discounts for seniors (55 years and above), police, firefighters, and military personnel on some cruises. Carnival also has discounts for seniors (55 years and above) and those in the military. Plus, Princess Cruises has deals for teachers, military personnel, and emergency/medical workers.

Ways to Save on a Bahamas Cruise

Keep your eyes out for discounts and special offers.

A great way to cut down on Bahamas cruise costs is to keep an eye out for discounts and deals. Cruise lines frequently run promotions that can lower the price of your vacation significantly. These deals might include last-minute offers, reduced rates during the quieter seasons, or bundled packages that give you things like meals, tours, or extra onboard credit for a cheaper price than buying them all separately.

To save money on a cruise, another simple strategy is to track price changes for cruise fares. The cost of cruises can change depending on how many people are booking, the season, and current sales, so snagging a fare when it’s lower can make your trip a lot more affordable. To catch these price changes, you can use apps and websites (like CruisePlum ) that keep an eye on cruise prices and alert you when the price of a cruise you’re interested in goes down.

Use a travel agent

Booking your cruise to the Bahamas through a travel agent can be a wise choice if you’re looking to save some cash. Travel agents often have special deals, promotions, and prices that you won’t find openly available. They’re in close contact with cruise lines and tend to hear about discounts, short-term offers, and possible upgrades before anyone else.

A good travel agent brings more to the table than just savings. They can guide you in picking the right cruise line, ship, and route that fits your taste and budget, ensuring you get the best value. They’re also handy for making sense of the many choices you’ll face, like picking a cabin, deciding on meal plans, and planning outings while ashore, which can help you steer clear of spending more than necessary or making decisions you might regret.

Limit the amount of onboard spending

Keeping your cruise affordable goes beyond just the booking phase. Your spending while on the ship can significantly impact your overall budget. Here are some strategies to keep onboard expenses in check:

Pre-purchase packages: Before your cruise begins, you can often buy packages for drinks, meals, and internet access at lower prices than you’d find on the ship.

Take Royal Caribbean as an example: they offer beverage packages like the Soda Package, the Refreshment Package, and the Deluxe Beverage Package for alcoholic drinks. They also have a photo package available, which can save you money compared to purchasing photos one by one during your cruise.

Maintain a daily spending limit: It’s very easy to overspend due to the excitement and convenience onboard. To prevent this, decide on a daily spending limit for yourself and stick to it.

Many cruise lines provide apps or have kiosks on the ship that let you monitor your spending as it happens. Use these tools to stay aware of your expenditures. If you’re cruising with your family, make sure everyone knows the budget so that you’re all working together to stay within limits.

Choose the right time to cruise

Picking the right time to cruise to the Bahamas can greatly affect how much you spend. Cruising outside the busiest times can mean much cheaper fares. Usually, the cheapest time to cruise the Bahamas is during the hurricane season (lasting from June to November). Another great time to cruise is during the shoulder season, which is the time between the peak and off seasons. 

Set a budget

Planning a budget for your Bahamas cruise can help you steer clear of surprise costs and make your holiday more enjoyable. To manage your money well, think about all the possible expenses, including costs before the cruise (like plane tickets and hotel stays), the price of the cruise itself (which includes taxes and fees), money spent on the ship, trips when you’re on shore, and additional expenses such as travel insurance . Here’s a simple guide to follow:

Pre-cruise expenses: Set aside 10-15% of your budget for flights, hotel rooms, and any activities before your cruise starts. This ensures you have enough to enjoy the places you’re leaving from without worrying about money before your cruise begins.

Base cruise fare: Set aside 50-60% of your budget here since this is what your cruise primarily costs. This part pays for your place to stay on the ship, most of your meals, and a lot of the entertainment and activities included in your cruise price.

Onboard spending: Set aside 10-15% of your budget for extra things like specialty dining, spa treatments, internet access, and shopping on the ship. Although many activities are covered by your cruise price, it’s common to spend a bit on these extras.

Shore excursions: Set aside 10-20% of your budget for exploring the places you visit with tours or activities. Since the cost of these can vary a lot, think about booking some through the cruise and doing some on your own to cut costs. 

Additional expenses: Set aside 5-10% of your budget for travel insurance, getting back home, and any unexpected costs. This ensures you have a cushion for any surprises and can end your trip without financial stress.

Booking an interior cabin can save you money

Choosing an interior cabin is an easy way to cut costs on a cruise. These rooms, found along the inner hallways of the ship with no ocean view, are usually the least expensive options. Although you won’t have the experience of waking up to views of the sea, you’ll save a lot of money that can go towards enjoying different aspects of your vacation.

For instance, on Royal Caribbean’s 7-night Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise, an interior cabin is priced at $589, while a room with an ocean view goes for $719, a balcony for $999, and a suite jumps to $2,009. Choosing an interior cabin could mean saving more than $400 compared to a balcony, freeing up a large amount of your budget for other vacation pleasures.

Compare different cruise lines: from mainstream to luxury

Cruise lines can be grouped into three categories: mainstream, premium, and luxury. If you want to keep costs down, consider cruising with a mainstream line such as Carnival or Royal Caribbean. These cruises provide a great range of facilities and activities without breaking the bank, making them ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers.

Alternatively, upscale and high-end cruises, like Princess Cruises and Regent Seven Seas, deliver more tailored services, better food options, and larger living spaces, but they come with a steeper price tag. Your decision should be based on what’s most important to you during your holiday—whether that’s sticking to a budget or treating yourself to a more lavish experience.

Free Bahamas Cruises: Scam or Legit?

In Florida and other parts of the US, you might find advertisements or fliers offering a chance to win a free cruise to the Bahamas. People often wonder if this is real or a scam.

It’s a bit of both. After you enter the raffle, you’ll likely get a message saying you’ve won. So, it’s not a true sweepstakes since everyone seems to win, which can make it feel scammy.

Even though the cruise is advertised as being ‘free,’ you’ll still have to pay for port fees and taxes, costing about $40-$60 per person. Don’t forget to consider the travel costs to the port as well.

Once on the cruise, you’ll find it’s very basic. The rooms are small, and the ship doesn’t offer as many amenities compared to other lines like Royal Caribbean. You’ll get many offers to upgrade your room or extend your stay at extra costs.

In reality, this ‘free cruise’ offer is just a sales pitch. So, while it may be a cheap way to go on a cruise, it might not be worth it if you’re looking for a comfortable experience. The final cost might even be higher than a cruise with a well-known company, so make sure to compare prices before deciding.

How Much Is a Cruise to the Bahamas? – FAQ

Do i need a passport for a cruise to the bahamas.

Typically, as a US citizen, you won’t need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas. This is because these cruises are often closed-loop, starting and ending at the same port in the US. However, you will still need to carry some form of identification documentation. Make sure to verify specific requirements with your cruise line. Even though it’s not always necessary to carry a passport, it is advisable in case of emergencies.

What is the average cost of a 7 day Bahamas cruise?

After comparing different Bahamas cruises, we’ve found an average price per night of around $96. This means that for a 7-day Bahamas cruise, you’re looking at an average cost of about $672. However, prices can vary widely, and will usually range from $500 to $700, depending on which cruise line you choose.

How much money does the average person spend on a Bahamas cruise?

How much the average person spends on a Bahamas cruise comes down to their shopping habits, cruise length, and what’s included in the base fare. On average, you’re likely to spend extra on things like specialty restaurants, drink packages, and shore excursions, which (unless your cruise is all-inclusive) are not covered by your ticket price.

You could end up spending anywhere from $50 to $200 extra per day for each person. This varies based on how fancy the cruise is and how much you decide to spend. If you’re careful with your money, you might stick to the free stuff and not buy too much, keeping your costs low. But, if you’re in the mood to treat yourself to more of the cruise’s offerings, you might spend more, even beyond the top end of that estimate.

Remember, a lot of cruise lines have deals where you can pay ahead for drink packages, Wi-Fi, and even shore excursions. This can be a good way to save some money instead of paying for each thing separately while you’re there.

What is the cheapest time to cruise the Bahamas?

The cheapest time to cruise the Bahamas is during the hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. During this period, the Atlantic hurricane season makes it less desirable for most travelers, so cruise lines lower their prices. If you don’t mind the chance of bad weather and itinerary changes, you can save money by cruising the Bahamas during this season.

Should I include laundry in my Bahamas cruise budget?

It’s a good idea to think about laundry costs when planning your Bahamas cruise budget. While some of the higher-end cruises might let you wash your clothes for free, most of the regular and even the nicer lines will charge you. How much you’ll pay can change based on which cruise you’re on and what kind of laundry service you pick.

Using the ship’s laundry room yourself is usually cheaper, only costing a few bucks to wash and dry your clothes. And, having the cruise staff do your laundry can get pricey, especially since they charge per piece of clothing. Some cruise lines might offer deals or packages for laundry, which could save you money if you need to wash clothes often during your trip.

If you’re worried about laundry costs, you might want to pack extra clothes so you don’t need to wash as much, or bring clothes that are easy to clean in your room if you have to. But, if you want to relax and not stress about laundry, setting aside some money in your budget for laundry services is a smart move.

How expensive are Bahamas cruises for solo travelers?

It’s generally more expensive for solo travelers to go on Bahamas cruises because of an extra charge called the “single supplement” fee. This fee is added because the pricing is usually based on two people sharing a room. But, there are some cruise lines that have studio rooms, which can help save money by reducing or removing this extra fee.

Do kids save money on Bahamas cruises?

Yes, there are a few ways for kids to save on Bahamas cruise costs. A lot of cruise lines provide discounts for kids when they stay in a room with two adults who are paying full price. In certain cases, children might get to cruise for free or for a much lower price. Cruise ships also often have kids’ clubs and activities included in the fare, which means parents won’t have to spend extra on entertainment for their children.

Final Words

The price of a cruise to the Bahamas depends on many factors, such as the cruise line you pick, onboard spending, shore excursions, and the type of cabin you choose. On average, a Bahamas cruise will cost around $96 per night. For a 6-7 day cruise, you’re likely to spend around $576 in total.

Keep in mind that these figures represent the starting point for the most basic accommodations. Additional costs, including gratuities, port fees, taxes, and any extra activities or services like Wi-Fi, will add to your final bill. It’s wise to factor these into your budget early on to avoid surprises.

Related articles:

• How Much Does a Cruise Cost? (2024)
• How Much Is a Cruise to Alaska? (2024)
• Finding Cheap Cruises: Tips and Tricks from Experienced Cruisers
• The Best Beaches in and Around Nassau, The Bahamas

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost? [SOLVED] Ranked by Ship & Line

By jeremy camosse apr 2021.

You may be surprised at the difference in ship cost between cruise lines! It may surprise you which line has the most expensive and cheapest cruise ships?

How much does a cruise ship cost? We love this question! Below, you'll find a deep dive into cruise ships by cost . From the most expensive cruise ship in the world, to the cheapest.

We've analyzed cruise lines to find how much a cruise ship costs based on multiple criteria.

Included, you'll find ship cost by brand and per cabin to account for difference in ship size. We also explore the difference in the cost to build a cruise ship over time

There's a clear trend in increasing ship cost by decade ! Additionally, we look at the total asset value by fleet and by holding company . It's truly amazing how the industry is so very consolidated!

Don't get us wrong. A ship's price tag is just one consideration.

There are plenty of factors that come into play when searching for the perfect cruise. How new is the vessel? How big is it? What class does it belong to? What features does it have? And, of course, how much does a cruise ship cost ? We cover all of these in other blog posts. For now, we'll explore ship cost in depth.

Cost by Cruise Line

How much does a cruise ship cost to build, by Line?

Above, you'll find a graph showing the average cruise ship cost by cruise line . The chart shown represents the actual cost to build a cruise ship for the specific brands shown.

Which company spends the most per vessel? That would be Royal Caribbean! On average, RCCL writes a check for $669 million for each new ship!

Size Matters

You may be a bit skewed from the info above. It looks like Royal Caribbean is clearly the most expensive. But, the above chart doesn't take into account size. Obviously a ship that can hold 5,000 passengers will be more expensive than a ship with 500. Royal Caribbean has the biggest ships. It's not overly surprising that they're also the most expensive!

This graph above gives us an idea of not just "cost," but also grandiosity. Royal's ships are the biggest and most costly .

To get a better idea of "value" as opposed to "price tag," you'll want to consider ship size . We're one step ahead! Check out the infographic below for average cost to build a cruise ship based on size. Specifically, we analyze cost verse number of staterooms.

Cruise Ship Cost by Cabin

How much does a cruise ship cost by stateroom?

This chart shows average cost by cruise cabin. That allows us to account for ship size and "normalize" the cost data. When buying an apartment building, you'd mostly like value it based on total number of units. Each apartment will command $X in rent. Similarly, each cruise cabin generates $Y in revenue.

It's no surprise that the smaller ships rise to the top. These brands are considered "premium lines." The drastic differences in price are obvious. Seabourn ships have cruise staterooms valued at more than 5x the cost of cabins on Pullmantur!

Why did we use cabins as a proxy for size?

Great question! There are a few metrics we could have picked. Passenger Capacity or Tonnage could have worked as well. Both have merits as well as deficiencies. We chose "cabins" due to its direct impact on revenues generated.

To get the most of this analysis, you'll want to compare ships with a similar quantity of cabins. Compare SAGA and Fred Olsen ships. The average roughly the same number of cabins per ship. SAGA spends over 2x the amount on a per cabin basis!

The data won't completely represent the full picture. Celebrity has massive ships carrying over 3k passengers and also the Xploration with a capacity of 16 cruisers! To avoid this issue you'll want to check out our complete list of ships by cost below.

Cost Increase Over Time

Below, find the increase in cruise ship cost over time

We also looked at how much does a cruise ship cost to build today vs. in the past ? We expected an increase and were not disappointed! The chart below shows the average price tag of ships throughout the decades.

The blue bars show actual dollars spent. The green line depicts "cost in today's dollars." These figures were derived using an average inflation rate of 3.22%.

It's clear that prices have grown significantly ! Both in terms of actual dollars and inflation-adjusted costs.

Even with the current speed bump in the industry, we expect this to continue. Vessels are continuously adding capacity and extravagant (read "expensive") features. The average cost per cruise ship is quickly approaching one billion dollars !

Cruise Line Fleet Value

Total value of all ships by cruise line.

You may have counted almost 30 cruise brands included above. Don't be fooled . There aren't that many big cruise companies out there. The chart below is likely to surprise you. The list of cruise companies is much smaller. Two companies (Carnival & Royal Caribbean) own nearly 75% of the entire industry !

Many passengers have sailed Oceania or Cunard and had no clue they were owned by NCL or Carnival. It's always entertaining to hear a passenger make fun of "Carnival" as they proudly book their next Seabourn vacation. Carnival Corp. owns both brands!

These major cruise lines know what they're doing. They want to own every cruise passenger , whether they're cruise budget is $1,000 or $10,000!

Most Expensive Cruise Ships

Which Cruise Ships Cost the Most?

Of course we had to include a list of the most expensive cruise ships ever built . Here are the Top 25 biggest price tags ever commanded by cruise ships. The "billion+ dollar club" is a significant portion of the list.

We also include the owning cruise line. You'll find one cruise line in particular is writing the biggest checks!

ALLURE OF THE SEAS

#1 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Allure of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.5 Billion for the ship in 2010.

That represents a cost of $2.13 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 225k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $9,447 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Allure of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms. That equates to roughly $775k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

STAR OF THE SEAS

#2 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Star of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean had a $1.88 Billion price tag for the ship, which will be delivered in 2025.

The ship weighs in at 251k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $7,496 (per GT).

It's also interesting to look at the Star of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,805 staterooms. That equates to roughly $670k per cabin !

OASIS OF THE SEAS

#3 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Oasis of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.3 Billion for the ship in 2009.

That represents a cost of $1.8 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 225k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $8,160 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Oasis of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,742 staterooms. That equates to roughly $670k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

HARMONY OF THE SEAS

#4 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Harmony of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2016.

That represents a cost of $1.7 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $7,615 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Harmony of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,747 staterooms. That equates to roughly $631k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

NORWEGIAN EPIC

#5 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Norwegian Epic cost to build?

Norwegian Cruise LIne spent $1.2 Billion for the ship in 2010.

The ship weighs in at 156k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet, although significantly smaller than the RC ships on this leaderboard. Per tonnage, the ship cost NCL $10,924 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the NCL Epic cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,114 staterooms. That equates to roughly $805k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

On a "per cabin" and "per tonnage" basis, the NCL Epic is the most expensive ship on this list!

SYMPHONY OF THE SEAS

#6 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Symphony of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2018.

The ship weighs in at 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $7,350 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Symphony of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,759 staterooms. That equates to roughly $608k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

WONDER OF THE SEAS

#7 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Wonder of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2022.

That represents a cost of $1.5 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 237k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $6,408 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Wonder of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,867 staterooms. That equates to roughly $529k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

OVATION OF THE SEAS

#8 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Ovation of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.1 Billion for the ship in 2016.

That represents a cost of $1.4 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 169k gross tons. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $8,377 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Ovation of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,091 staterooms. That equates to roughly $676k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

ICON OF THE SEAS

#9 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Icon of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.3 Billion for the ship in 2023.

That represents a cost of $1.35 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 251k gross tons. This is the largest cruise ship in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $5,396 (per GT) in today's dollars. That's least expensive per GT of any ship on the list.

It's also interesting to look at the Icon of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,805 staterooms. That equates to roughly $482k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

UTOPIA OF THE SEAS

#10 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Utopia of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $1.3 Billion for the ship in 2024.

The ship weighs in at 237k gross tons. This is one of the largest cruise ships in the fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean $5,700 (per GT) .

It's also interesting to look at the Utopia of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,824 staterooms. That equates to roughly $478k per cabin ! That's the cheapest per cabin cost of any ship on the list!

MSC WORLD EUROPA

#11 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the MSC World Europa cost to build?

MSC spent $1.15 Billion for the ship in 2022.

That represents a cost of $1.3 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 206k gross tons and is one of the largest in MSC's fleet. Per tonnage, the ship cost the cruise line $6,286 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the World Europa's cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,626 staterooms. That equates to roughly $492k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

MSC SEASHORE

#12 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the MSC Seashore cost to build?

The ship weighs in at 169k gross tons. Per tonnage, the ship cost the cruise line $7,632 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Seashore's cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,270 staterooms. That equates to roughly $570k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation!

DISNEY FANTASY

#13 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Disney Fantasy cost to build?

Disney spent $950 Million for the ship in 2012.

The ship weighs in at 130k gross tons. Per tonnage, the ship cost Disney Cruise Line $9,912 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Disney Fantasy's cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,250 staterooms. That equates to roughly $1 million per cabin , when adjusted for inflation. That's the most expensive cost per cabin of any ship on the list!

DISNEY DREAM

#14 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Disney Dream cost to build?

Disney spent $900 Million for the ship in 2011.

The ship weighs in at 130k gross tons. Per tonnage, the ship cost Disney Cruise Line $9,688 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Disney Dream's cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,250 staterooms. That equates to roughly $1 million per cabin , when adjusted for inflation. Along with the Disney Fantasy, this represents the most expensive cost per cabin of any ship on the list!

FREEDOM OF THE SEAS

#15 Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World

How much did the Freedom of the Seas cost to build?

Royal Caribbean spent $800 Million for the ship in 2011.

That represents a cost of $1.2 Billion when adjusted for inflation!

The ship weighs in at 154k gross tons. Per tonnage, the ship cost Royal Caribbean Cruise Line $8,079 (per GT) in today's dollars.

It's also interesting to look at the Freedom of the Seas' cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,817 staterooms. That equates to roughly $687k per cabin , when adjusted for inflation.

On average, a cruise ship costs $763 million, when adjusted for inflation. To get this approximated cost to build a cruise ship, we analyzed 243 active and ordered vessels. Each respective purchase price was adjusted for inflation prior to our average.

The Star of the Seas is the most expensive ship ever built in terms of "actual dollars." The price paid by Royal Caribbean was $1.88 Billion and the ship will be delivered in 2025. When comparing "today's dollars" the Allure of the Seas tops the list at an adjusted purchase price of $2.1 Billion.

Royal Caribbean clearly leads the cruise industry with the most expensive ships. Next in line is Disney followed by Costa than NCL. The entire ranking chart can be seen above.

Seadream Yachts has the least expensive cruise ships. Yet, the cruise line has a much smaller capacity and relatively high cost per stateroom. When accounting for size, the cheapest cruise ships are owned by Pullmantur.

In actual dollars, ships have increased based on the following costs per decade: 1970 - $43M; 1980 - $37M; 1990: $119M; 2000: $276M; 2010: $433M; 2020: $697M; 2020+ - $870M. Our graph also shows this increase in normalized dollars spent.

Carnival Corporation is by far the largest with 45% of the cruise industry in terms of ships owned. The company owns nine cruise brands and a combined 94 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $74.2 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

We hope that the above is extremely helpful in answering, how much does a cruise ship cost to build?

If you enjoyed learning about the most expensive cruise ships in the world, you'll love to explore the largest cruise vessels ever built. Please check out our post, Largest Cruise Ships in the World .

Please use the "Share" buttons below to share our cruise ship costs posts with your favorite cruising community!

How Much Does a Cruise Cost? All Prices for 2024!

June 28, 2024

How much do you pay to go on a cruise? This is a very common question but it is not easy to answer concisely.

When talking about the price of cruises we must consider that each company offers different services.

Some cruise lines only include the cost of the cabin and food in the price, while others also include drinks, excursions, and entertainment.

So let’s see what the average prices are for the most famous cruise companies!

Table of Contents

The price of a cruise

The price of a cruise can vary a lot. In general, we can say that the minimum price is $50 per day with very inexpensive cruise lines . While for more expensive or luxury cruise lines you c an even exceed $1000 per day .

According to my calculation, if we consider the biggest cruise lines (so excluding the luxury ones) the average cost per person for a cruise is $1700 per week (8 days and 7 nights). That means that the average daily price for a cruise is $212,50 per person.

Comparison Table of the Average Price For a Cruise With Different Cruise Lines

Below you can see a more detailed comparison table with some of the biggest cruise lines. The prices refer to an 8-day cruise line in a balcony cabin (obviously per adult person) .

As you can see “ Costa Cruise ” is the cheapest with an average total of $1300 per person . On the other hand, the cruises by Disney are the most expensive ones with an average total of $2650 per person .

The average cost of a cruise for 2

Generally speaking, there is no discount if you book for two people instead of one person. So the average cost for a 2-people cruise, according to my calculation model, is $3400.

It’s different if the second person is a kid or a person under 18 or 21 years of age. On some cruises, children pay a discounted rate.

What’s included in the price?

Cruise tickets generally include the cabin, all the meals at the restaurant and the buffet, some basic drinks water, tea and coffee) and entertainment.

You have to consider that everything else would be an extra cost. The things you have to pay for on a cruise ship are specialty dining, alcoholic or soft drinks, service fees, spa, casino, internet connection, and excursions.

Also consider that some cruises offer promotions and rates that include some extras already in the price of the cruise. For example, some cruise lines allow you to book with the “ All Inclusive ” formula which includes all meals but also all types of drinks.

Frequent questions

What is the average cost of a disney cruise.

The average cost of a Disney Cruise is $2650 per person in a balcony cabin for 7 nights . Of all the major cruise lines, Disney is the most expensive. This is above all due to the unique experience that these cruises are able to offer, linked to the iconic characters of the animation company.

What is the average cost of a 7-day Alaska cruise

Most Alaskan cruises range from 7 to 14 days. For a 7-day Alaska cruise , the prices can go from $1000 to over $10000 . The average cost for a 7-day Alaska cruise is $1500.

Get my beloved cruise-specific packing list for free!

You will also receive special offers and cruise news!

Check your e-mail. If you can't find it look in the spam box!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How Much Does a Cruise to Alaska Cost?

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

What to expect on an Alaska cruise

How much are alaskan cruise prices, what affects the cost of an alaskan cruise, how to save money on an alaskan cruise, so, how much does an alaskan cruise cost.

Many travelers dream of taking an Alaskan cruise, but they often fear how much it will cost. But the truth is, Alaskan cruise prices can be more affordable than you think. There are simple ways to reduce Alaska cruise prices to fit almost any travel budget.

In this article, we'll share expected Alaskan cruise prices, additional unexpected costs to factor in and tips for saving money on your trip.

Your experience on an Alaskan cruise will vary based on the time of year you travel. The scenery, wildlife and foliage change by season, so many travelers return at different times of the year to experience it all.

One of the favorite things to do on an Alaskan cruise is to see wildlife. Cruise passengers have opportunities to see animals at sea and on land. Pay close attention throughout your journey because you may see Grizzly and black bears, moose, bald eagles, humpback whales and pods of orcas.

While many travelers assume that Alaska is cold year-round, that isn't necessarily true. The weather can change multiple times in a single day. Travelers may enjoy warm sunshine one minute, then chilly rain the next. Because of this, it is wise to dress in layers and bring clothing that's suitable for different types of weather.

Hours of sunshine also vary widely throughout the year. Alaska cruise season is from April to October, which avoids the coldest and darkest times of the year. Cruises around the summer solstice may enjoy around 20 hours of sunshine since the days are so long.

Alaskan cruise costs vary widely based on travel dates, length of trip, cabin style and other factors. To illustrate what you might expect to pay for an Alaskan cruise, we priced out trips from a few of the most popular cruise companies.

The sample trip departs from Seattle and takes place in May 2024.

* The Disney Cruise departs from Vancouver since it does not offer a Seattle departure.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

When figuring out how much an Alaskan cruise is, travelers need to understand that many factors determine the price, as the total cost of an Alaskan cruise is more than just booking the cruise.

Base cruise fare

The base cruise fare is the price you'll often see advertised when researching Alaska cruises. This is the basic cost of getting on the ship and securing your room.

Port taxes and fees

In addition to the base cruise fare, all cruisers must pay port taxes and fees. Even if you find a "free cruise" through some promotion, you'll still pay these extra charges. The cruise company pays these taxes and fees to the ports and destinations you visit throughout your trip.

Cabin upgrades

Many travelers choose to upgrade their experience by booking a larger room, a better view or a room with better features. Base cruise fares often include an interior room. Depending on the cost, upgrading to an exterior room with a window can be a good idea.

Flight/transportation

Most cruise travelers don't live within driving distance of the departure city. Because of that, you'll need to factor in how you'll get to the departure port. Many travelers fly to the departure city, which can increase the cost of your trip.

You may want to extend your trip to factor in travel time and avoid issues in case of a delayed or canceled flight. Additionally, this provides time to enjoy the city for a few days before or after the cruise travel dates.

» Learn more: Is cruise travel insurance worth it?

Hotel stays

When staying in the departure city, you'll need a place to stay. Booking a hotel room, short-term rental, hostel or other accommodation is key because you won't be able to stay on the cruise ship during this time.

Shore excursions

During your cruise, your ship may stop in several ports along the way. At each stop, you can get off the ship to explore local attractions, tours and cuisine as part of a shore excursion.

These excursions have a wide variety of prices depending on the destination, admission cost and other factors. The excursion price typically includes transportation to and from the attraction.

Some travelers explore the port city on their own. You may be able to save money this way. However, you're responsible for organizing and paying for your transportation, admission and other items along the way.

Onboard entertainment and gambling

Most onboard entertainment is included in the price of your cruise. However, some exclusive events or VIP seating may cost extra. Many cruise ships also offer spa treatments and gambling, which aren't included in the cruise price.

Alcoholic beverages

While most cruises include all-you-can-eat and drink in the cruise price, alcoholic beverages generally cost extra. You can pay for each drink individually. However, some cruises offer a flat price for unlimited beer, wine and other alcohol.

» Learn more: 7 ways a cheap cruise gets pricey fast — and how to deal

Premium meals

Premium meals offer higher-end cuts of meat and gourmet specialties. Depending on the cruise ship company, premium meals may be included or cost extra. Factor this in when comparing Alaska cruise options.

Meals off ship

While most meals are covered on the cruise, once you depart, you're on your own for meals. Even if your shore excursions include food, you may not like what they offer. Alternatively, you may want to try local eateries to enjoy dishes you can't get at home.

Shopping and souvenirs

Part of the experience of traveling is buying goodies to bring home. You may find local food or cultural items that you can't find at home. Or these items can serve as a reminder of fond memories.

Vacation clothing

Many travelers use vacations as an excuse to update their wardrobes. When traveling to different climates, you may also need to buy new clothes to be comfortable in varying conditions. Additionally, you may need formal clothes to dine at the higher-end restaurants on the ship.

Although many cruise ships are all-inclusive, it is common practice to tip the staff for a job well done. Additionally, extra tipping can be useful to secure prime meal times or spots on excursions.

Travelers should budget $14 to $19 per day per person to cover gratuities. However, some cruise lines include gratuities in your package price.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

With so many items to factor into the cost of an Alaskan cruise, savvy travelers look for ways to save money. Here are a few ways our readers have saved money on their Alaska cruise vacations.

Travel off-peak . Booking during slower periods can reduce the cost of your cruise or provide additional incentives from the cruise company.

Book last minute . Last-minute reservations can save money because once the cruise ship departs, they cannot sell that cabin. Some travel websites specialize in last-minute travel deals.

Use travel rewards . Cruise travelers often use airline miles to fly to their cruise and hotel points to stay in the departure city. Additionally, flexible points can be a solid option to cover the cost of the cruise.

Consider cruise insurance. If you're concerned about losing money because of a last-minute change or cancellation, consider purchasing a separate cruise travel insurance plan or booking your trip with a credit card that has travel insurance .

Book early . Cruise lines often offer deals and incentives to travelers who book early.

Work with a cruise agent . Travel agents who book cruise vacations often have access to deals and promotions not available anywhere else.

Stay in an interior room . While balcony or exterior rooms provide better views, consider how often you will be in your room.

Book excursions directly . Cruise lines often mark up the cost of excursions when selling them to passengers. Book directly to reduce the cost.

Skip the beverage package . While many people enjoy an alcoholic drink or two, will you drink enough to justify the daily fee? To save money, it can be worth skipping the inflated drink prices.

» Learn more: How to earn and redeem points on cruises

Many travelers dream of taking an Alaska cruise with friends or family. Alaskan cruise prices vary widely depending on many factors, but you can expect to pay at least $600 before taxes for a 7-night cruise to Alaska. Factors that will increase the cost include the cruise line selected, cabin type, the time of year and how long your trip is.

Extras like excursions, gambling, alcohol and premium meals may also affect the price. You can save money on your Alaska cruise by traveling in the off-season, booking at the last minute or using your travel credit card rewards .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

on Bank of America's website

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Royal Caribbean drink packages: Prices, inclusions and what to know before you buy

Royal Caribbean drink packages allow you to drink what you want, when you want without feeling like you are being nickeled and dimed. Isn't that most cruisers' dream? The all-inclusive, extra-fee beverage plans aren't necessarily for everyone, but they offer a nice way to enhance your cruise and take some of the stress out of in-the-moment vacation decisions.

Royal Caribbean ships offer a variety of packages, from a simple Water Package that keeps you and your crew hydrated during your cruise to a comprehensive plan that includes most alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Other than the Water Package, which is priced based on the quantity you order, drink packages on Royal Caribbean are priced per person, per day.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The most common questions about Royal Caribbean's drink packages revolve around what each package includes, whether they are worth the price and when is the best time to buy your package. I've tried all of Royal Caribbean's drink packages. I've also cruised without a package. Here's what you need to know to decide if a beverage plan is right for you.

What's included in Royal Caribbean's drink packages?

Royal Caribbean offers a few different drink packages, and the inclusions vary based on your choice. All options include gratuities, and no Royal Caribbean drink package covers room service or minibar drinks. Also, unlimited alcoholic beverage packages may not be available while the ship sails in some locations, so package details may change based on the itinerary.

Related: Cruise drink packages: A line-by-line guide

Water Package

Royal Caribbean's Water Package is available in 12- and 24-packs of 1-liter bottles of Evian water. The bottles will be delivered to your cabin on embarkation day.

If you don't want to pay for a Water Package, you can find drinking water at complimentary drink stations in the buffet area and often in other locations on Royal Caribbean ships. Bring your own reusable bottle and fill it from these stations or straight from the faucet in your cabin. The water throughout the ships is not only drinkable but also better than what's available in many cities. You can also purchase bottles of water a la carte.

Why might you consider a Water Package? If you drink bottled water at home, you may prefer the taste. The package also allows you to have plenty of water on hand in your cabin or to take on excursions.

The downside is that 1-liter bottles are not the ideal size for lugging off the ship with you. You must either bring a reusable bottle or purchase single-serving bottles for port days. You can get these at bars or the gangway as you disembark in each port.

Classic Soft Drinks Package

Royal Caribbean's Soft Drinks Package is for the serious soda drinker. On select ships, the package comes with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup with a chip on the bottom to allow the holder to use the Freestyle soda dispensing machines throughout the ship. The "magic" cup gets you all the refills you want 24 hours a day, with your pick of sodas with add-in flavorings. (Orange Coke is my fave.) Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are available on 18 ships in the fleet.

You can also order a glass of soda at any restaurant or bar on board. Some venues only serve fountain sodas, but others have cans. One big bonus of the package is that sodas on Royal Caribbean's private island destinations ( Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee ) are included. The only time you can't get a free soda with this package is with room service (because room service, other than continental breakfast, comes with a $7.95 service fee, no matter what you order) or from your cabin's minibar.

Related: 8 best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package (and 3 to avoid)

You can bring up to 12 cans of soda (or bottles up to 17 ounces) per person on board with you in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. So, why would you want a Classic Soft Drinks Package?

It's a question of convenience. I've been known to take a couple of 16-ounce bottles of soda on board with me, but carrying on much more than that is a big hassle. With a Classic Soft Drinks Package, you can easily access your beverage of choice anywhere you are on board — including ordering sodas from roaming bar servers at the pool, in the casino or at events and shows — or on Royal Caribbean's private islands . You don't have to return to your room to grab a soda. It's also great for older kids and teens who might be roaming the ship with friends.

Refreshment Package

This is my favorite Royal Caribbean drink package. It includes still and sparkling water, sodas (with the included Freestyle magic cup), mocktails, premium coffees and teas (but not those from Starbucks stand-alone stores or kiosks) and freshly squeezed juices.

With this package, you can order almost anything nonalcoholic at bars and most restaurants on board. The Refreshment Package does not include shakes at Johnny Rockets, which are only included with the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Even the smoothies and protein shakes at Vitality Cafe and milkshakes at Johnny Rockets are included in this package, as is the sweet tea at Portside BBQ on Oasis of the Seas. Want a strawberry slushy? Order a virgin strawberry daiquiri. Want hot cocoa? Covered. How about a virgin mudslide? A bartender will happily blend up vanilla ice cream, coffee, hazelnut syrup and chocolate syrup into a perfect mocha shake.

As with the Classic Soft Drinks Package, you can order your nonalcoholic beverages, from sparkling water to fancy mocktails, from your pool lounger or blackjack table.

Plus, with the Refreshment Package, you've solved the problem of needing water to take off the ship with you for excursions and what to drink while on the private islands. It's all included in this package.

Deluxe Beverage Package

This package takes all that's available in the Refreshment Package (sodas, water, mocktails, premium coffee and tea, and fresh-squeezed juice) and adds cocktails, spirits and liquors, as well as beer by the bottle or can and wine by the glass.

There are some limits on brands available with the package, but the list includes imported, domestic and craft beer, an extensive wine list and commonly ordered spirit brands on drinks up to $14. Any bar server can tell you what's available on your cruise.

You also get a hefty 40% discount on bottles of wine up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles over $100. It's handy for sharing a bottle with your travel partner at dinner.

As with the Classic Soft Drinks and Refreshment packages, you can use the Deluxe Beverage Package anywhere on board (except stand-alone Starbucks locations). Use it in restaurants, bars and any other venue where a bar server is present, as well as at either of Royal Caribbean's private island destinations. The Deluxe Beverage Package also includes milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

This package comes with a few caveats. If one person in a cabin buys this package, everyone of legal drinking age in the cabin must buy the same package, according to cruise line policy. If someone in your room does not drink alcohol, don't worry. I've encountered many people who have called customer service and downgraded one or more non-drinking adults to a Refreshment Package.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

The package also does not include drinks that come with souvenir glasses, but you can order the same drink in a regular glass.

If your vacation plans include alcoholic beverages, buying this package is a nice way to pay your cruise bar tab in advance rather than deal with the shock of a high bill at the end of the cruise.

Cafe Select Coffee Card

This option is ideal for cruisers who prefer a little fancier caffeine fix than what a simple cup of coffee provides. This card entitles you to any 15 specialty espresso-based coffees throughout your cruise. (This package excludes beverages from Starbucks stores or cafes.) One shot of espresso equals one card punch. If you order a specialty coffee that includes two shots of espresso, you will pay for that one drink with two punches.

Unlike Royal Caribbean's other drink packages, the Cafe Select Coffee Card is not restricted to one person, and anyone in your cabin can use it.

What do Royal Caribbean drink packages cost?

The cruise line uses dynamic pricing on beverage packages the same way it does on cruise fares. That means you won't know the prices for each package before you book a cruise. Demand, destination and promotions play a big part in the pricing, especially for the Deluxe Beverage Package, causing them to fluctuate slightly.

Here's what you can expect a Royal Caribbean drink package to cost:

• Water Package : 12 bottles for $39; 24 bottles for $69
• Classic Soft Drinks Package : $12.99 per person, per day
• Refreshment Package : $29 per person, per day
• Deluxe Beverage Package : $56 to $105 per person, per day (depending on your ship and trip)
• Cafe Select Coffee Card : $31 per card

The prices listed above do not include an automatic 18% gratuity (which is also applied to the coffee card). You'll want to factor that amount into your travel budget if you decide to purchase a package.

You will notice that the Deluxe Beverage Package price range listed above is a bit wider than what is posted on Royal Caribbean's site. Posted price ranges include the disclaimer that prices on individual sailings may vary. We used a realistic range of prices from Royal Caribbean guests who have booked cruises and paid for drink packages in the past 12 months.

The best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages

You can purchase a beverage package as soon as you book your cruise, but should you? A lot depends on how soon your ship will depart. If you're sailing within a few months, go ahead and get any packages you plan to buy — unless Black Friday happens before you sail. Black Friday deals on drink packages are generally the lowest you'll find all year.

The package that varies most in price is the Deluxe Beverage Package. Its price is higher during peak travel times and on cruises with stops at private islands. Buying this package ahead of time is always cheaper than purchasing it once you're on board.

Royal Caribbean does advertise price drops and deals for pre-cruise purchases. If you're waiting and hoping for a deal, frequent cruisers report that you should look at the actual price per person, per day, not at the percentage off or BOGO deals, to determine if the package price is where you want it.

Related: How to get free or cheap drinks on a cruise

Is a Royal Caribbean drink package worth it?

Now that you know your choices and why you might want each package, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of whether these packages are worth purchasing.

The 1-liter bottles in the Water Package cost roughly the same as a 12-ounce bottle from a bar. That makes this package a deal, but only if you prefer bottled water over taps or dispensers. It's also convenient to have the water delivered to your cabin, eliminating the need to bring a case of bottles on board or search for a bottle when you want water on the ship.

When ordering an individual soda on the ship, your charge will be what you'd expect to pay at a land-based restaurant, plus an 18% gratuity added automatically. When you ask a bar server for a soda on the ship, you'll be charged just over $4 per soda with the tip, regardless of whether it comes in a can or from a fountain.

As the starting point for the Classic Soft Drinks Package is just over $15 per person, per day with the gratuity, you'll need to count on drinking a minimum of four sodas a day for it to be a good value.

If you prefer nonalcoholic beverages, you can expect to pay around $7 for mocktails and protein shakes, $5 for lattes at non-Starbucks locations and close to $9 for smoothies. These prices are before the automatic 18% gratuity.

Here's what your daily consumption might look like on the Refreshment Package: You could start with a morning latte ($6 after you add gratuity), grab water for your excursion ($3.84), enjoy a soda at lunch ($4), sip a couple of mocktails during the afternoon ($8.25 each), have another soda with dinner ($4) and enjoy another mocktail for the show or in the casino ($8.25).

That puts you at over $40 for the day, making the Refreshment Package a deal at $34 (with tip) per person, per day. Drink much less than that, and this Royal Caribbean drink package won't be worth it. The Refreshment Package price varies only slightly between sailings.

For alcoholic drinks, prices vary a lot based on your order. Beer and hard cider average $7 to $9. Wine by the glass is $9 to $25. Cocktails are $10 to $14, except for the drink of the day, which is $8. These prices do not include the 18% gratuity.

When deciding if Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it, be sure to factor in nonalcoholic drinks you are likely to have, not just those with alcohol. How many premium coffees do you drink each day, including one with your dessert at dinner? How many bottles of water and sodas?

The value of those often adds up to $25 or more per day. That leaves you with somewhere between $30 and $80 per day to spend on alcoholic drinks to break even.

If you're lucky and can purchase your package at the lowest possible price, almost anyone who drinks a combination of nonalcoholic drinks and a couple of cocktails daily would break even. But if your purchase price is somewhere in the middle of the price range (where most people land), you would need to consume a minimum of $55 per day beyond the average nonalcoholic beverages to break even. That equals six beers, or four or five glasses of wine or cocktails.

Related: Are cruise drink packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

For fans of specialty coffees, this package could save you money. Based on the price of a single espresso shot latte (about $6 after you add gratuity), you would only get five coffees for roughly the same cost as the coffee card. Since you get 15 single espresso shot beverages with the coffee card, you get more than double the number of coffees for the same price.

Whichever package you choose, your value may also depend on your itinerary and activities. On a Caribbean cruise that includes a sea day or two and a stop at CocoCay, you'll likely drink more — simply because you're relaxing more than touring, and the hot temperatures will make you thirsty.

But what about a port-intensive cruise in Europe where you are off the ship for long hours and likely to be sampling local beverages? In that case, the ship's beverage package might not come through for you.

Combined packages

If you mainly drink specialty coffees and sodas, one way to save a little money on your beverages is to combine the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package.

For example, you would need to purchase the Refreshment Package to get both sodas and premium coffees and teas, which is $29 per person, per day. The cost for the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package would run you $12.99 per day, plus a one-time cost of $31 for the card. So, for a five-night cruise, the Refreshment Package would cost you $145 per person; the combined Cafe Select Coffee Card and Classic Soda would cost $95.95 per person. You could spend even less if you're traveling with a partner and want to share one coffee card and each get your own soda package.

Additional factors

Before you decide if a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it, there are two more things to consider: your Crown & Anchor loyalty status and your Casino Royale player status .

If you are a Diamond C&A member, your SeaPass card will be loaded with four free drinks per day. Diamond Plus members get five drinks, and Pinnacle members get six. Those can be water, specialty coffee or tea (other than from Starbucks and Desserted), sodas from bar servers, beer, wine or cocktails up to $14 (except at Bionic Bar).

As for casino perks, if your status is Prime or higher, you can drink free from the casino bar anytime it is open.

Those free perks could make the difference in which package you choose, if any. For example, a Diamond member might use her free drink allotment on cocktails and wine and save money with a Refreshment or Soda Package for her other daily drinks. Or, perhaps, the free drinks are enough that it's cheaper to buy a few nonalcoholic beverages a la carte.

Diamond Plus members also have a discount of 30% on Deluxe Beverage Packages when purchased on board. That's rarely a good deal unless you simply forget to buy in advance, as pre-purchase in the cruise planner or app is almost always at least 30% lower than the onboard price.

Bottom line: Is a drink package on Royal Caribbean right for you?

Now that you have all the facts, there are several ways to look at Royal Caribbean's drink packages to determine if you should get one.

First, consider every kind of drink you will likely pay for on board. Are you happy with beverages that are included in the cruise fare? Those include tap water, drip coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and juice from a dispenser at breakfast. Or, will your vacation only be complete with morning lattes, smoothies, fruity drinks by the pool and wine with dinner?

For some people, it's easy. If you're likely to drink four or five cocktails most days, plus specialty coffee, waters for excursions, soda and a glass of wine at dinner, your total, if purchased individually, would easily exceed $80 per day. Unless your sailing has a higher-than-average price for the package, go for it.

However, if you typically only drink a couple of glasses of wine at dinner, you aren't likely to break even — at least, not on the Deluxe Beverage Package. In that case, skip the package that includes alcohol and do the math on the Refreshment Package.

If you drink soda, the difference in price between the Classic Soft Drinks Package and the Refreshment Package is $16. Almost any combination of two other drinks — lattes, mocktails, smoothies or bottled water — makes the Refreshment Package a deal for you. If you can live without the extras, stick with the soda-only package.

If none of those looks like a bargain, pay as you go. Some people set a daily drink budget and check themselves (or their kids) against their folio in the Royal Caribbean app or on the interactive TV in their cabin. I've even met people who bring cash along to pay their drink balance daily at guest services to stay on track.

The other side of the equation is to factor the price of the drink package into the total vacation cost to make the cruise more of an all-inclusive vacation experience. Think about it like you would an all-inclusive land-based resort. When you vacation at one of those, you not only wouldn't know the price of the drinks you consume, but you also would not care.

If you're more interested in a stress-free vacation where you don't have to agonize about the cost of every drink you consume than you are in paying the least amount of money possible for your vacation, a Royal Caribbean drink package is totally worth it.

The bottom line is that drink packages on Royal Caribbean expand your choices. You can use packages to make your cruise as all-inclusive as you'd like (and maybe save some money in the process), or you can opt to cruise and drink in pay-as-you-go mode. Either way, you'll find plenty of fun cocktails and mocktails, as well as your favorite wine and beer, to enhance your vacation at sea.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

How Much Do Drinks Cost on Royal Caribbean? 

Finding out a simple drink on a Royal Caribbean cruise can cost as much as a fancy dinner might catch you off guard. I’ve spent over ten years sailing and have seen it all when it comes to what drinks cost at sea.

If you’re worried about how much you’ll spend on your favorite beverages, you’re not alone. This article will clear up the confusion about drink prices on Royal Caribbean.

We’re here to help you keep your vacation budget in check so you can focus on making memories that really count. Let’s dive into the details and keep your wallet happy.

Royal Caribbean Bar Menu 2024 Prices: A Quick Look

Here’s a quick guide to bar menu prices on Royal Caribbean, based on what I saw on Wonder of the Seas. I’ve also matched these prices with what’s on the Royal Caribbean App for my next cruise on Oasis of the Seas in April 2024.

Royal Caribbean Drink Menus Made Easy

On Royal Caribbean ships, finding a drink menu is easy. Every bar has one. Sometimes it’s a paper menu, and other times, you just scan a QR code to see the menu on your phone. You might think that different bars have different prices, but that’s not usually how it works. For example, the price for a Budweiser is the same whether you’re at the Schooner Bar or the Lime and Coconut pool bar.

The main difference between bars is what drinks they offer. Some bars, like the Schooner Bar, have lots of Whiskies. Others might not. Also, the cocktails often match the bar’s theme. For example, The Music Hall has drinks named after songs or bands. A popular one is the “Raspberry Beret” – it’s got Rum, Vodka, Gin, Tequila, Sweet and Sour mix, Sprite, and Raspberry liqueur. It’s really good!

And here’s a tip: most bars will make you any cocktail you want, as long as they know how to make it. Plus, you’ll pay the same price for your drink no matter which bar you go to.

Royal Caribbean Drink Prices: An Easy Guide

Let’s talk about drink prices on Royal Caribbean cruise ships. You might wonder if the prices change depending on the ship’s size or age. Here’s the good news: prices are the same, no matter if you’re on a big ship like Odyssey of the Seas or Symphony of the Seas, or an older ship like Vision of the Seas.

But, there’s a small catch. Sometimes, the prices might change because of updates. This means one ship could have new prices before another. Even so, Royal Caribbean tries to keep drink prices the same across all their ships.

There’s one more thing to keep in mind. On bigger ships, you’ll find more types of drinks, like different draft beers. Smaller ships might not have as many options.

Now, let’s dive into the details of the drink prices.

How Much is a Beer on Royal Caribbean

Wondering about the cost of a beer on Royal Caribbean? The price depends on whether you choose a draft or canned beer and the brand.

Generally, prices range from $7.49 to $9.50. On top of this, an 18% gratuity is added to all bar tabs, bringing the total cost of a beer to between $8.84 and $11.21. This price range also applies to Cider, Seltzer, and non-alcoholic beers.

Let’s adjust the table with these assumed volumes for a more complete overview:

Please note, the volumes marked with “(est.)” are estimated based on typical serving sizes for these beverage types and may not precisely match the actual serving sizes provided by Royal Caribbean.

How Much is a Bottle of Wine on Royal Caribbean

Curious about the cost of a glass of wine on Royal Caribbean? Prices in the cruise ship bars range from $8 to $16 per glass. After including the 18% gratuity, your final cost will be between $9.44 and $18.88.

The variation in wine prices is based on the quality of the wine. However, Royal Caribbean keeps the price range more reasonable than what you might find at a local wine bar.

You’ll also discover a broader selection and higher quality wines in the main dining room.

Note: The prices and types are organized to provide a quick overview of the options and costs.

Drinking wine by the bottle can prove to be a money-saver

Note: The “Wine Type” column specifies whether the wine is Sparkling, White, Rosé, or Red, providing a quick reference for readers to find their preferred style.

How much are cocktails on Royal Caribbean?

Wondering about the cost of cocktails on Royal Caribbean? Each bar on the ship offers a unique cocktail menu that reflects its theme.

You might recall the Music Hall’s creatively named drinks like “Raspberry Beret”, “Jack and Diane”, and “Hotel California”. Near the pool, classics like Bahama Mama’s and Mai Tai’s are the go-to choices.

No matter which bar you choose, the staff can usually whip up any cocktail, provided they or you know the recipe. The standard price for cocktails is around $14. If you request a cocktail that’s complex and not listed on their menus, there’s a possibility of an extra charge. However, from personal experience, this situation is rare.

How Much is a Vodka on Royal Caribbean?

How much is gin on royal caribbean cruise line, how much does rum cost on royal caribbean.

On Royal Caribbean, rum prices vary, with options like Bacardi and Captain Morgan priced at $12.97, including gratuity.

Bacardi Reserva Ocho stands at a higher $15.33, while more affordable choices like Kraken and Malibu are $11.79. This range ensures a selection for every taste and budget aboard the cruise.

How Much Does Tequila Cost on a Royal Caribbean Ship?

Whiskey prices on royal caribbean cruise lines.

If you’re looking to enjoy a glass of American, Irish Whiskey, or Bourbon on a Royal Caribbean cruise, prices range from $9.99 to $12.99. After adding the 18% gratuity, the total cost per glass will be between $11.79 and $15.33.

Highest to lowest total price:

Scotch Prices on Royal Caribbean

Want to know about Scotch prices on a Royal Caribbean cruise? They range from $9.99 up to $39.99. After adding the 18% tip, the price goes from $11.79 to $47.19.

Why such a big range? It’s all about how long the Scotch is aged. By law, Scotch must age in barrels for at least three years to be called Whisky. The longer it ages, the better it gets. A top-notch single malt Scotch might age for 10 years or more. Aging makes it more expensive.

The priciest Scotch on board the Wonder of the Seas is “The Macallan Enigma,” costing $39.99, or $47.19 with the tip. This Scotch doesn’t show its age, but it’s really expensive, about £300 a bottle in the UK, which is around $366.

Prices for Specialty Drinks and More

When it comes to specialty drinks like Baileys Irish Cream, Cognacs, and liqueurs such as Cointreau, you’ll find their prices are pretty much in line with the other drinks you can get on board.

Watch Out for Sales Tax!

Just a heads-up: On some Royal Caribbean cruises, right after leaving the port, there’s Sales Tax on drinks. This is because the ship is still close to land and not in international waters. For example, when we left Port Canaveral on the Wonder of the Seas, our drinks had an extra 7% added for the first couple of hours.

Comparing Drink Prices: Royal Caribbean and Other Cruises

Most big cruise lines keep their drink prices pretty close to each other, so they can stay competitive. On our last cruise with Carnival (on the Carnival Pride in June 2023), we found that beer and liquor prices were similar to what you’d see on Royal Caribbean.

But, Carnival has better deals on cocktails, starting at $11. Also, their drink package is cheaper than Royal’s, and their prices don’t change all the time.

There’s one thing to note about Carnival, though: you can only have up to 15 alcoholic drinks a day. On Royal Caribbean, it seems like the only limit is how much you can handle.

Bar Pricing Consistency Across the Ship

No matter which bar you visit on the ship, you’ll generally find that the prices are the same. However, there might be special deals at certain bars. For instance, Playmakers offers a pitcher of beer for $18, and at the Lime and Coconut bars, you can grab a bucket of 5 beers for the price of 4.

Drink Prices at The Schooner Bar on Wonder of the Seas

Check out the menu from the Schooner Bar lounge from our last cruise on the Wonder of the Seas. It gives a good overview of the drink prices you can expect. (Don’t miss our review of the Wonder of the Seas for more insights.)

Drink Prices in the Main Dining Room

Yes, drink prices in the Main Dining Room are consistent with those elsewhere on the ship. However, you’ll find a broader selection of wines in the Main Dining Room than in the bars.

Drink Prices at Perfect Day at Coco Cay

Yes, the bar prices on Coco Cay Island match exactly with those onboard the ship. If you have a Royal Caribbean Drinks Package, you can use it on the island as well.

Saving Money on Wine on Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean seems to follow the American standard of a 5-ounce pour for wine, which is nearly 150ml. Since a wine bottle holds 750ml, you get about 5 glasses per bottle. The cheapest wine I found was the Berenger White Zinfandel at $8 per glass and $29 for the bottle. With the added gratuity, that’s $9.44 for a glass and $34.22 for the bottle.

Buying five glasses of White Zinfandel separately would cost around $47.20. But by buying a whole bottle for $34.22, you save $12.98—even on the most affordable wine.

If you order a bottle in a bar or the Main Dining Room and can’t finish it (yes, some people don’t finish their wine), they’ll store it for you for the next night.

You can also bring two bottles of wine or champagne in your carry-on when you board. Comparing the onboard prices to what you might pay at a local supermarket or wine store, the savings are clear.

While you’re supposed to drink these in your room, I’ve seen many guests enjoying their own wine on the public decks.

How to Save on Beer Prices

To save money on beer, consider ordering a pitcher at Playmakers or a bucket of beer at the pool bars. A pitcher is only $18 and gives you around 4 drinks.

With a beer bucket, you get 5 beers for the price of 4. Just a heads-up: buckets can run out quickly, so you might have to wait a bit while they find one for you.

Saving Money on Cocktail Prices

To keep some cash in your pocket while enjoying cocktails, skip the souvenir glass option. “Daily specials” are often served in these by default, especially by waiters roaming the pool deck.

Another tip is to request premium brands in your cocktails. For instance, if you’re having a vodka cocktail, ask for it to be made with Grey Goose. You’ll get a better-tasting drink without paying more than the standard $14 cocktail price.

Free Drinks on Royal Caribbean

You can get plenty of free drinks on Royal Caribbean. This includes tea, coffee, fruit juices, and water, which can help you save money.

I’ve written a full guide called “What Drinks are Free on Royal Caribbean.” It has all the details about free drinks on the cruise.

Is the Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?

Royal Caribbean has drink packages that might save you money. You can enjoy unlimited drinks but can only order one drink at a time with each card. The Deluxe Beverage Package includes all alcoholic drinks up to $14, plus the gratuity is covered. However, you do pay an 18% gratuity on the package’s price.

One thing to note is Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, so the package price changes and can be different for people on the same cruise. Prices are per day, and I’ve seen them range from $50 to $120. Right now, they offered me the deluxe package at $72 per day plus gratuity. Since my cruise isn’t until next year, I’m waiting to see if I can get a better deal, especially around Black Friday. I think if it goes below $60, it’s worth it.

Whether the drink package is good value really depends on how much you drink. It’s a good idea to do some quick math to see if it makes sense for you.

I’ve written a complete guide on these drink packages to help you decide if it’s a good fit.

For me and my wife Morag, who are Diamond-level members and get four free drinks a day, it’s a bit more of a tough call. Last time, we didn’t get the package and still saved money.

There are other ways to save on drinks, but they’re not without risks, and I wouldn’t suggest them.

Read: What Beverages Are Free on Royal Caribbean? 

Getting the Best Price on the Deluxe Beverage Package

The key to snagging the best deal on the Deluxe Beverage Package is to buy it early. If you do this and then see the price drop later, you can cancel your initial purchase and rebook at the lower price.

Royal Caribbean often runs sales during holidays, with Black Friday being one of the best times to look for deals.

What’s in the Deluxe Beverage Package?

The Deluxe Beverage Package includes all drinks priced at $14 or under, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. This means you can enjoy premium coffees and teas, but it doesn’t cover Starbucks.

With this package, you also get a free Coca-Cola souvenir cup. This cup lets you grab free Coke from special machines all over the ship. Bottled water is part of the deal, too.

Another great point is that the tip for bar service is already included in the package price. Just remember, if you’ve paid your gratuities upfront, that only covers the dining room staff and your room steward, not tips for bar or room service.

Quick Service Tips for Royal Caribbean Pool Bars

If you’ve been on a cruise, you know that pool bars can get really busy. It’s super annoying to wait for a while, only to see someone else walk up and get served first. The bar staff do their best, but sometimes they just look up and serve whoever catches their eye.

To get served faster, here’s a trick: Find a bartender you like and make a point of catching their eye each time you’re at the bar.

Giving them a little extra tip can also help. They’ll start to recognize you and might even call out your name when you’re walking by.

How much is a soda on Royal Caribbean?

On Royal Caribbean, a soda typically costs around $3 to $5. This range depends on the drink and the availability of package options, offering flexibility for guests to enjoy their favorite carbonated beverages while cruising.

How much are alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean?

Alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean are priced between $6 to $15. The cost varies with the type of alcoholic beverage and its specific ingredients, reflecting a broad selection that caters to different tastes and preferences.

How much is a bottle of water on Royal Caribbean?

A bottle of water on Royal Caribbean usually costs about $2 to $5. The price range is influenced by the bottle’s size and brand, ensuring guests have access to hydration options at various price points.

How much is a mocktail on Royal Caribbean?

Mocktails on Royal Caribbean typically range from $4 to $7. These non-alcoholic drinks offer a diverse menu of flavorful options, allowing guests to enjoy delicious, crafted beverages without alcohol.

Wrapping Up Your Cruise Drink Plans

Let’s sum things up. You’ve looked into drinks and costs on a Royal Caribbean cruise and are wondering if a drink package is worth it.

If you like trying new drinks (like a lavender daiquiri), the deluxe package could be a great fit.

But, the cost of the drink package can be high. Sometimes, you might spend on drinks as much as your cruise ticket!

Think about how much you usually spend on drinks. If you love both energy drinks by day and cocktails by night, those costs add up.

If you’re not a big drinker, paying for drinks one by one might be cheaper. Sure, single drinks cost more, but you might spend less overall.

There’s no simple answer. Compare the price of drink packages with how much you’d drink and see what makes sense for you.

Is unlimited drinks worth it for you? That’s something only you can decide.

So, whether you’re cheering with a fancy drink or just enjoying a soda, here’s to a cruise with plenty of drinks and few worries.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 Cheap Cruises Ranked By Their 2024 Prices

• Cruising offers an affordable and all-inclusive vacation option, with prices as low as $27.25 per person per night.
• Travelers can explore beautiful destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas on budget-friendly cruises.
• These cheap cruises provide luxury amenities, including open bars, water parks, multiple restaurants, and entertainment options.

The cruising world is one that travelers find hard to leave. With 24/7 food and restaurant opportunities, water parks, gyms, infinity pools, casinos, bars, and more, cruising is like going to a floating, all-inclusive hotel. While some cruise lines can be expensive, there are a few out there with some unbelievable deals that take their passengers on cruise ship voyages through Iceland's untamed beauty , cruises in the U.S. Virgin Islands , unique cruises in Greece , and the Caribbean's best-kept secrets, just to name a few.

The average cost per hotel room (excluding food) is predicted to be around $155 per person, per night, in 2024 . Still, in the land of cruising, travelers can enjoy an all-inclusive vacation for just $27.25 per person per night (the cheapest cruise on this list) or $95 per night (the most expensive 'cheap' cruise on this list).

For travelers looking to set sail and explore the world on a budget, these are the cheapest cruises to go on in 2024 (ranked by their 2024 prices), listed from cheap to 'super cheap'.

Related: 20 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

7-Night Alaska Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $669.

This 7-night cruise departs from Seattle, Washington, and takes its passengers to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), and Victoria, British Columbia. This is the cheapest cruise on offer for exploring the Alaskan waters.

The Norwegian Encore cruise line is one of the only ships that offer an open bar as part of the total price. It boasts an impressive 16 passenger decks, making it a cheap yet luxurious Alaskan vacation alternative.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Encore
• Book it here: 7 Night Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau on Norwegian Encore

10-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total cost per person for 10 nights: $509.

This 10-night cruise is the ultimate Caribbean getaway; offering the cheapest way to experience the length of the Eastern Caribbean, including stops in Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (the Cruiseline Private Island), Grand Turk Island in Turks & Caicos, and Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic.

This cruise comes in at just $51 per night, making it one of the cheapest Caribbean cruises (and vacations) to go on. The Carnival Venezia also offers more restaurants (8), outside rooms (1249), and passenger decks (15) than other cruise ships for the same price, making it one of the most cost-effective options.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Venezia
• Book it here: 10 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Related: Three Super Cheap Cruises Worth Booking In 2024

7-Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $479.

This 7-night Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel cruise around the Caribbean is the cheapest cruise line with an all-inclusive mini-water park in 2024.

The ship houses 2 pools and 5 whirlpools, a Kids Aqua Park, which includes a kid-size pool and slide, splash area, fountains and sprays, and 3 multi-story water slides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Epic Cruise Line
• Book it here: 7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $469.

This 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise that takes passengers to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico is the cheapest cruise departing from California.

The average price to visit and tour Mexico is $997 per person for 7 days , making this cruise an excellent all-inclusive alternative, costing half of the average price, with luxury amenities.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Panorama
• Book it here: 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

The cheapest cabin for this cruise is the interior cabin - bear this in mind when booking.

6-Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Total cost per person for 6 nights: $451.

This 6-night Pacific Coastal Cruise is another one of the cheapest 2024 cruises; it takes its passengers on a cost-effective journey one-way to discover the West Coast of Canada and the United States from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Los Angeles, California. The cruise explores sights in Vancouver before moving on to Victoria, British Columbia, San Francisco, California, Catalina Island, California, and ending in Los Angeles, California.

On the route, this affordable cruise ensures that entertainment, food, exercise, and more are all covered with its state-of-the-art facilities that aim to cost less than what passengers usually spend at home.

• Cruise Ship: Brilliance of the Seas
• Book it here: 6 Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Related: 10 Luxury Cruise Lines, Ranked By Passenger Review

11-Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

Total price per person for 11 nights: $369.

Easily rivaling even the best Caribbean island hopping cruises , this cheap, extensive cruise takes its passengers to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Cozumel, Mexico, Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas (a Cruise Line Private Island) and Miami, Florida for just $34 per person per night.

Dining, entertainment, bars, and sports zones are all included in the price, making it one of the amazing yet cheap family cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Meraviglia
• Book it here: 11 Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

5-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total for 5 days per person: $349.

This cheap almost-week-long Eastern Caribbean voyage takes passengers from Port Canaveral in Orlando to Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands before heading to Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and ending back in Port Canaveral.

The cruise includes amazing stage shows, live musical performances, stand-up comedy, clubs, bars, and lounges featuring DJs spinning, karaoke, piano sing-alongs, and more. On board, guests can also enjoy parties, game shows, and trivia contests.

There are also great options for all six meals — breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and late-night snacks at the full-service Main Dining Room or the casual Lido Restaurant. These amenities make it one of the cheapest entertainment-filled cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Freedom
• Book it here: 5 Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

4-Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

Total cost for four days per person: $229.

The Carnival Radiance takes its passengers on the cheapest trip to Mexico from Los Angeles they'll ever find. Stops along the way include Catalina Island, Ensenada, and Long Beach in Los Angeles.

From endless taco trains to never-ending burrito buffets and all-one-can-drink tequila, this all-inclusive Mexican fiesta is the cheapest way to spend a vacation in Mexico.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Radiance
• Book it here: 4- Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

2-Night Margaritaville At Sea Paradise Cruise

Total cost for 2 nights per person: $148.50.

This 2-night cruise through the Florida seas departs from Palm Beach, Florida, and takes its passengers on an all-inclusive, relaxing getaway. This cruise doesn't have any island extras that passengers need to budget for, making it one of the cheapest cruises to book in 2024.

Passengers won't need to worry about paying for anything more once they're on board.

• Cruise Ship: Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
• Book it here: 2-Night Florida Cruise 2024

4-Night MSC Bahamas Cruise

Total cost for 4 nights per person: $109.

Not only is this one of the most affordable Bahamas cruises , but it also comes in as the cheapest cruise for 2024. This ultimate budget-friendly cruise is the 4-night MSC Seashore Bahamas Cruise, which takes its passengers on a journey to the luscious Bahamas. The ship departs from Miami and stops over at Nassau and Freeport before heading back to Miami.

The only thing not included in this all-inclusive vacation is a Wi-Fi and on-board credit package. The MSC Seashore is one of the biggest MSC cruise ships, with multiple amenities while also being the cheapest to offer such amenities.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Seashore
• Book it here: 4-Night Bahamas Cruise 2024

How Much Does an Alaskan Cruise Cost? A Budget Guide 2024

Ah, Alaska—the Last Frontier! A place where majestic glaciers, awe-inspiring wildlife, and untouched landscapes beckon. If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising through this stunning state, you’re not alone. But one question often looms large: How much does an Alaskan cruise cost? We have compiled a thorough analysis of Alaskan cruise prices for 2024. We show you all additional unexpected costs to factor into budgeting your trip.

Table of Contents

Alaskan Cruise Prices in 2024 – Introduction

Ever watched those Alaska cruise advertisements flaunting week-long trips for just $600-900 and thought, “Is this for real?” Additionally, if you opt for the shoulder season of Alaska cruises , you can snag a week-long voyage for just $500-700. If it seems too good to be true, that’s because it often is.

While these low starting prices can grab your attention, they’re just the tip of the iceberg. The actual cost of an Alaskan cruise can climb into the thousands when you factor in additional expenses like shore excursions, specialty dining, the type of cabin, and more.

An average budget for a 7-day cruise along Alaska’s Inside Passage route, with several shore excursions and additional amenities, is typically between $3,000 and $5,000 per person. We’ll provide more details below, as we’ve experienced such a cruise twice ourselves. We took a 10-day and, later, 7-day cruise.

In this comprehensive guide, based on our experiences and analysis, we’ll break down the cost of an Alaskan cruise, from the type of cabin you choose to hidden fees that catch you off guard.

We’ll also discuss factors like shore excursions in the best Alaska ports of call and itinerary choices that can affect your overall Alaskan cruise prices. If you’re wondering how to budget for this once-in-a-lifetime trip, we’ve got you covered with practical budgeting tips.

Spoiler Alert: Don’t miss the last section of the article, where we’ll reveal exactly how much our Alaskan cruise cost us. This will give you a real-world example to help you plan your dream Alaskan cruise in 2024.

Factors Affecting the Cost of an Alaskan Cruise

When it comes to planning your dream vacation aboard an Alaskan cruise, understanding the various factors that influence the average cost for an Alaskan cruise is crucial. Several elements can significantly impact your overall expenses, from the time of year you choose to sail to the type of cabin you book. Let’s dive into these factors to help you make an informed decision.

Seasonality

The cost of an Alaskan cruise can vary greatly depending on when you decide to set sail. The season typically runs from May to the end of September, with peak months being June, July, and August. During these high-demand months, you can expect to pay a premium. But you also have all the best activities and attractions available.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider cruising during the shoulder seasons of late April/May and September/October. Make sure to pack properly for your Alaska cruise .

We took a cruise in September , and the weather was even better than on our Alaska road trips in July or August. So don’t be afraid of shoulder season. Just pack properly. However, some attractions are closed from mid-September, so keep that in mind.

Type of Cruise Line

The cost of an Alaskan cruise also depends on your chosen cruise line.

Mainstream cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line (our pick last time was Norwegian Sun ), Carnival , Princess , and Royal Caribbean offer more affordable options, from around $120 to $250+ per person daily.

On the other hand, luxury lines like Seabourn can cost upwards of $300 to $500+ per person daily. Your choice will depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

Length of Cruise

The duration of your journey is another factor that affects Alaskan cruise prices. Most Alaskan cruise tours run for 7 to 12 nights; the longer you stay, the more you’ll pay. The most popular are 7-night cruises. We chose a ten-night Alaska cruise to spend more time in Alaska, and later, we took a seven-night cruise.

Here, you can check our 10-day Alaska cruise review to see which port of calls we visited. Longer cruises often offer a more comprehensive experience, allowing you to explore more destinations.

Type of Cabin

Your choice of cabin can significantly impact how much you end up paying.

• Inside cabins are generally the most budget-friendly, costing between $75 and $150 per person daily. We took an inside cabin on a cruise ship and didn’t complain. There are so many places on the ship where you can enjoy the ocean, glacier, and mountain views that if you are traveling on a budget, don’t hesitate to take an inside cabin. Alaska is not a Caribbean, so you don’t have to spend all day outside on the balcony. It’s chilly.
• If you’re looking for a room with a view, ocean-view cabins can cost between $100 and $350 per person per day.
• For those wanting a more luxurious experience, balcony cabins and suites can cost between $200 and $400 per person per day.

Alaska Cruise Itinerary

The Alaska cruise itinerary that suits you best and you choose can significantly impact your Alaskan cruise cost. Different Alaska cruise routes offer varying experiences and come with their own price tags.

• Inside Passage : The Alaska Inside Passage is one of the most popular routes. It offers a scenic journey through Southeast Alaska’s waterways. Cruises on this route are often more affordable and shorter in duration. The best ports on this route are Juneau , Ketchikan , Skagway , Sitka , and Icy Strait Point . Moreover, wildlife encounters on an Alaska cruise are also highly possible on this route.
• Gulf of Alaska: Some cruises stop at Wittier and Seward ports, offering a different perspective of Alaska. These itineraries can be longer and may cost more as you sail north. Adding a land tour to places like Denali National Park or the cities of Fairbanks or Anchorage can significantly increase the length and cost of your trip. A scenic flight tour over Denali (a one-of-a-lifetime experience!) will also increase your costs. These add-ons provide a more comprehensive Alaskan experience but require a larger budget.
• The cruise budget is also influenced by whether you are taking a round-trip cruise that is starting and ending it in the same port. Or are you interested in a one-way cruise only ? Then there will be additional flight costs and hotel costs.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like port taxes, fees, and onboard spending. These can add up and should be included in your budget when considering the prices for an Alaskan cruise. Below, we give you details about additional and hidden costs.

Hidden Costs of Alaska Cruises to Watch Out For

When planning your Alaskan cruise, it’s easy to focus solely on the ticket price. However, the advertised Alaska cruise prices are often just the tip of the iceberg. Several hidden costs can sneak up on you if you’re not prepared. Let’s delve into these often-overlooked expenses that can affect the prices for an Alaskan cruise.

Port Taxes and Fees

One of the first hidden costs you’ll encounter are port taxes and fees. These are mandatory charges that are rarely included in the advertised Alaskan cruise cost. Depending on your Alaska cruise itinerary, these can add up to several hundred dollars per person. These charges are usually paid upfront when you pay for your cruise or added to your onboard account, so it’s crucial to budget for them when considering the Alaskan cruise cost.

Personal Experience : Governed taxes, port expenses, and fees were added to our booking components to our reservation process. Below, you can see the example.

While some cruise lines include gratuities in the overall cost, many do not. You’ll need to budget for tips, ranging from $13 to $20 per person daily. These are usually automatically added to your onboard account but are often overlooked.

Personal Experience: During our 10-night Inside Passage cruise on Norwegian Sun , we were surprised to find that we were charged $20 per person per day for gratuities. We had missed this information when booking the cruise. We always tip. It’s normal. But those gratuities were added to our bill even if we spent the whole day outside the ship and even ate all our meals in the port. It’s worth paying attention to this detail and adding the cost to your budget to avoid any surprises.

Internet and Communication

Staying connected at sea is not cheap. Internet packages can cost upwards of $25 per day, and onboard messaging apps may also come with a fee. Make sure to factor these into your budget if staying connected is essential for you.

Personal Experience: Our Alaska cruise price included 150 minutes of free Wi-Fi per person in our package. This was a great solution and was enough for basic usage, like checking emails and social media. We didn’t have to spend a fortune on the Internet.

Onboard Activities and Amenities

While many activities on the ship are included in your ticket price, some come with an additional fee. For example, amenities like spa treatments, specialty fitness classes, and certain onboard activities like laser tag or go-kart racing can add to your Alaskan cruise prices.

Our Tip: Get to know your cruise ship’s offer. Price lists of services are available on the cruise lines’ websites. Then, you can set a specific budget for your pleasures on the ship, such as massages or beauty treatments.

Specialty Dining

Most cruises offer various dining options, but not all of them are included in your ticket price. Specialty restaurants often require an additional fee or a la carte pricing, which can quickly add up if you’re a foodie looking to explore different cuisines.

Personal Experience : On our cruise aboard the Norwegian Sun, we opted for the Meal Specialty Dining Package. This allowed us to choose one dinner in one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. It was a great way to experience gourmet dining without the extra cost, as it was included in our package.

Unlimited Beverage Package

Many cruisers opt for an Unlimited Beverage Package to make their onboard experience more enjoyable. However, it’s essential to read the fine print. The package usually covers drinks priced under $15. You’ll have to pay the difference if you order a more expensive drink.

Personal Experience : We found that the Unlimited Beverage Package had its limitations. While it was great for mixed drinks and beers, it posed a challenge for wine and Scotch enthusiasts. Most better wines and premium Scotch were priced just above the $15 limit. After much searching and tasting, we found some wines under $15 that we enjoyed. Cocktails under $15 were excellent.

Alaska Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are among the most exciting parts of any Alaskan cruise, but they can also be among the most expensive. Whether it’s a helicopter tour of a glacier or a kayaking adventure, these activities are generally not included in the cost of an Alaskan cruise and can range from $70 to over $600 per activity.

Some of the most interesting cruise excursions we have had so far and we can honestly recommend are:

• Whale Watching In Icy Strait Point
• Juneau Whale-Watching Tour
• Skagway Train Tour

Our Tip: Check out our guide to the best Alaska Shore Excursions. It has many tips because we’ve done many tours, including whale watching, bear watching, scenic train rides, helicopter rides, and historical tours. It will help you choose shore tours that suit your needs and budget.

Travel Insurance

While optional, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for a significant investment like an Alaskan cruise. The cost can vary, but expect to pay around $100 to $200 per person for basic coverage.

Souvenirs and Onboard Shopping

The opportunities to shop onboard are plentiful, from duty-free shops to art auctions. However, these purchases can add up quickly and are not usually considered when considering the average cost of an Alaskan cruise.

By being aware of these hidden costs, you can budget more accurately and avoid surprises that could damage your dream Alaska vacation. The next section will discuss whether these additional costs make an Alaskan cruise worth it.

Shore Excursions: Are They Worth It?

One of the most exciting aspects of an Alaskan cruise is the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique cultures of the ports you’ll visit. Shore excursions offer a convenient way to do this, but they come at a price. So, the question arises: Are these excursions worth the additional cost of an Alaskan cruise?

Types of Shore Excursions

Alaskan cruises offer a wide range of shore excursions, from helicopter tours of glaciers to wildlife watching, whale watching, scenic train raids, and kayaking adventures. The activities you can participate in are as diverse as Alaska itself. You can book your Alaska shore excursions via your cruise line or on your own.

Cost of Shore Excursions

Shore excursions can significantly impact your Alaskan cruise prices. Prices can range from as low as $70 for a simple walking tour to over $600 for more extravagant experiences like a helicopter tour. Budgeting for these activities is essential, especially if you plan to participate in multiple excursions. The average price per person per tour is $120-250 with tips.

The Best Alaska Shore Excursions which we Took

We visited each of the following Alaska ports of call at least twice. In each of them, we took some shore excursions. So, if you are looking for recommendations for the most interesting tours, check out our articles:

• Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Juneau
• Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Skagway
• Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Sitka
• Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Ketchikan
• Guide To The Best Shore Excursions In Icy Strait Point

Value vs. Cost

While these excursions can be pricey, they often offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are hard to replicate. For example, how often do you get the chance to kayak near a glacier or take a dog sled ride? These unique experiences can make the additional cost worthwhile.

Do It Yourself Alternatives

If you’re on a tight budget, there are DIY alternatives. Many ports offer local tours and activities at a fraction of the cost of official shore excursions. However, these come with their own set of challenges, such as coordinating transportation and ensuring you return to the ship on time.

Personal Experience : We took a shore excursion in each of our ports of call. Some we booked via our cruise line, and some we DIY. Pros and cons of each solution read in our article: Alaska Shore Excursions on Your Own .

By weighing the cost against the value of the experiences offered, you can decide whether shore excursions are worth the investment for you. The following section will explore additional expenses when budgeting for your Alaskan cruise.

Free Activities

Each port of call has interesting, free, or affordable attractions, so you don’t always have to take guided shore excursions. Also, if you have little time in the port, it is worth enjoying the port, because each is worth seeing.

Here are some examples of affordable, still fantastic, and exciting attractions that will allow you to reduce the cost of your Alaska cruise:

• Juneau Whale Fountain: A Guide To Tahku Sculpture
• Discover Downtown Juneau
• Juneau Tram Review: Is The Mt Roberts Tramway Worth The Ride?
• 13 Best Things To Do In Icy Strait Point, Alaska, For Free
• Downtown Ketchikan Walking Tour
• Exploring Creek Street In Ketchikan: A Traveler’s Guide
• Is The Lumberjack Show In Ketchikan Worth It?
• Visiting Downtown Sitka
• Exploring Sitka National Historical Park: All You Need To Know
• Exploring The Skagway Historic District: A Downtown Guide

Additional Costs to Consider

While we’ve covered the major factors that contribute to the cost of an Alaskan cruise, there are some additional expenses that you should be aware of. These costs may not be the first things that come to mind when planning your cruise, but they can add up and should be included in your budget.

Unless you live near the departure port, you’ll likely need to fly to the city where your cruise begins. Airfare can vary widely depending on your location and the time of year. Make sure to factor this into your overall Alaskan cruise cost.

Personal Experience: We found that Seattle is a fantastic port to start and end your cruise. The city offers a wide range of domestic and international flight connections, making it convenient for travelers. Plus, Seattle is not an overwhelmingly large city, and the cruise port is located downtown, adding to the ease of travel. Moreover, Seattle is a great weekend getaway to extend your stay.

Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Hotel Stays

Many people choose to arrive a day or two before the cruise departs or stay a few days after it ends to explore the departure or arrival city. Hotel costs can range from $100 to $300 per night, depending on the location and quality of the hotel.

While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for any cruise, especially one as significant as an Alaskan cruise. Basic coverage can cost around $100 to $200 per person and provide peace of mind in unexpected events like medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Transportation to and from the Port

Getting to and from the port will incur some costs, whether a taxi, Uber, a shuttle, or public transportation. Budget at least $20 to $70 for this, depending on the distance and mode of transportation.

Onboard Spending Money

While onboard, you might want to shop, try your luck at the casino, or enjoy some premium beverages. Setting aside some spending money for these activities is a good idea.

Savoring Local Flavors: Budgeting for Meals in Alaskan Ports

While the cruise ship offers a variety of dining options, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore local cuisine during your time in the ports of call. Eating on land can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to budget for this as it can affect your overall Alaskan cruise cost.

Types of Food Available

From fresh seafood in Juneau to local delicacies in Skagway, each port offers a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a quick bite, you’ll find various options to suit your taste and budget.

Cost of Meals on Land

The cost of eating out can vary widely depending on the port and the type of restaurant. Casual dining spots may charge around $20 to $40 per meal, while upscale restaurants can cost $30 to $50 per person or more.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you want to save money, consider local food trucks, markets, or small eateries that offer authentic and budget-friendly meals. These can be a great way to experience local flavors without breaking the bank. Or pack some snacks and a bottle of water for your shore excursions.

Personal Experience : We found that setting aside a budget for meals on land allowed us to enjoy local foods without worrying about overspending. It also added a layer of cultural experience to our trip, making it even more memorable. But it was pricey. We paid $120 for two and a glass of wine in Icy Straight Point for lunch in Skagway for $20. For a grilled salmon $20. These are just some examples.

By accounting for these additional costs, you’ll have a more accurate picture of the average cost for an Alaskan cruise and can budget accordingly. In the next section, we’ll share some tips on how to save money without compromising the quality of your experience.

Planning and budgeting for meals on land can enrich your Alaskan cruise experience without any financial surprises. In the next section, we’ll discuss tips on how to save money on your Alaskan cruise.

What is the Average Price of a 7-day Cruise to Alaska in 2024?

We looked into the average pricing for a one-week Alaska cruise set for 2024. We focused on the top five cruise lines consistently receiving positive customer reviews. We picked the peak season for our study, specifically mid-July 2024.

All the cruises we considered start and finish in Seattle, Washington, and include a mandatory stop in Victoria, Canada—important to mention due to passport requirements for Alaska cruises . While the itineraries differ slightly, they all feature the stunning Inside Passage.

Most of the cruises last for 7 nights, except for Norwegian, which offers a 9-night cruise during the dates we examined. We gathered our data from Cruise Direct and provided pricing for one adult person, both an inside cabin (no window) and a pricier balcony cabin. The cost for a cabin with a window typically falls somewhere in between. Note that the prices don’t cover tips, drink charges, or any other hidden fees.

Cruise prices change over time; individual lines have different deals, so these are the average prices that we analyzed over several weeks to write this article.

A reasonable budget for a 7-day Alaskan cruise (Inside Passage route), including some shore excursions and extra amenities, could range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person.

Our Personal Experience: How Much We Paid for Our Alaskan Cruise?

So, you’re wondering what the real price tag is for an Alaska cruise, factoring in all the extra expenses we’ve discussed in this article? We’re an open book and happy to share our complete budget, including any additional costs we encountered.

We opted for a 10-night stay aboard the Norwegian Sun, choosing an inside cabin with no window to keep costs down. We skipped any extra paid activities or dining options on the ship.

That said, we didn’t hold back regarding shore excursions at each port we stopped at. For details on the specific excursions we took—like whale and bear watching, scenic train journeys, and more—check out our separate article on the subject.

Here’s the full breakdown of our Alaska cruise expenses, including the cruise itself and extra trips, airfare, hotel stays, etc.

Could we have cut costs further? Honestly, we couldn’t have trimmed down the expenses on the cruise ship any more than we did. We already skipped all the extra paid activities, so it could have been pricier if we’d indulged in those.

The only areas where we could have saved money were by skipping the shore excursions or forgoing the local delicacies like fresh salmon or crab at the ports. But doing so would have meant missing out on the true essence of Alaska, its unique attractions, and its incredible wildlife. In the end, we don’t regret spending a single penny.

Pro Tip : If you are curious about how much it costs to travel by land in Alaska, you can look at our article How much is a trip to Alaska for two where we analyzed the cost of a 10-day itinerary – a road trip from Anchorage . When planning such a trip, the article about planning a trip to Alaska will also be helpful.

Alaska Cruise Prices – FAQs

What is the average cost of a 7-day cruise to alaska.

The average price for a 7-day Alaskan cruise can range from $1,300 to $3,500 per person, depending on the cruise line, type of cabin, and time of year.

How much is an Alaskan cruise with a balcony?

The cost of an Alaskan cruise with a balcony can vary widely but generally starts at around $1,600 per person and can go up to $4,000 or more, depending on the cruise line and duration of the cruise.

How much should I budget for an Alaskan cruise?

The amount you should budget for an Alaskan cruise can vary widely based on several factors, such as the type of cabin, length of the cruise, shore excursions, and additional expenses like airfare and pre-cruise hotel stays. A reasonable budget for a 7-day Alaskan cruise, including some shore excursions and extra amenities, could range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person.

How much does an all-inclusive cruise to Alaska cost?

An all-inclusive Alaskan cruise, which typically covers meals, drinks, and sometimes even shore excursions, can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $9,000 per person or more.

Is food free on an Alaskan cruise?

Most mainstream Alaskan cruises include basic meals in the ticket price. This usually covers buffet-style dining and certain sit-down restaurants on the ship. However, specialty dining options, premium beverages, and certain snacks may cost additional.

What is the cheapest month to cruise to Alaska?

The cheapest months to cruise to Alaska are generally May and September, which are considered the shoulder seasons. However, the weather can be less predictable during these months.

How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost? Final Thoughts

Planning an Alaskan cruise is no small feat, and as our comprehensive guide illustrates, there are numerous factors to consider when budgeting for this experience. From the type of cruise line and cabin to the hidden costs like port taxes and onboard amenities, the actual price of an Alaskan cruise can be significantly higher than the initial ticket price. Yet, as our personal experience shows, the value of the journey often outweighs the cost.

The allure of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural experiences make it a destination worth every penny. While it’s possible to cut corners here and there, some experiences, like shore excursions and sampling local cuisine, are integral to the Alaskan adventure and shouldn’t be missed.

Our journey aboard the Norwegian Sun is a testament to the importance of thorough planning and budgeting. We opted for a budget-friendly cabin and avoided extra onboard costs, but we didn’t compromise on the experiences that make Alaska unique. From whale watching to scenic train rides, each shore excursion added a layer of depth to our trip, making it unforgettable.

So, is an Alaskan cruise worth it? Absolutely. It’s an investment not just in a vacation but in a wealth of experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re contemplating this incredible journey, our advice is to plan meticulously, budget wisely, and savor every moment. After all, Alaska is not just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you return home.

Do You Like It? Pin It For Later!

Agnes Stabinska is the creative force and co-founder behind the Alaska Itinerary blog. With a degree in Tourism Management and postgraduate studies in Journalism, Agnes combines academic expertise with real-world experience. Alongside her partner, Chris, she's your go-to guide for an authentic Alaskan adventure.

Agnes doesn't just write about Alaska; she lives it. From capturing the state's breathtaking landscapes through her lens to hiking its rugged trails or observing bears and whales in their natural habitat, her firsthand experiences are your compass to all things Alaska.

With Agnes and Chris, you're not just reading another travel blog; you're tapping into a treasure trove of insider tips, curated itineraries, and invaluable insights to make your Alaskan journey truly unforgettable.

Similar Posts

Do You Need a Passport for Alaska Cruise?

Share on X (Twitter) Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on EmailAre you planning an Alaska cruise and…

Alaska Inside Passage Cruises in 2024 – Your Ultimate Guide

Share on X (Twitter) Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on EmailWelcome to your go-to guide for Alaska…

Cruises to Seward or from Seward: Which itinerary Choose?

Share on X (Twitter) Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on EmailSeward is a gem of an Alaskan…

Review: Is the Norwegian Sun a Good Ship to Cruise Alaska?

Share on X (Twitter) Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on EmailIf you’re considering taking a cruise on…

Exploring The Best Alaska Ports of Call: A Traveler’s Guide

Share on X (Twitter) Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on EmailEach port of call in Alaska allows…

Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Alaska Cruise Experience

Thank you.. Please advise if possible… 7 to 8 day small size cruise ship 100 to 150..passenger tours pricing in Alaska … month of August 2024

Thank you for your question. We are not a cruise sales agency or travel agent, so we cannot price such a cruise for you. We provide estimated prices. The price influences the route, date, number of days, and amenities. It is best to contact the cruise line directly with which you want to cruise. Typically, one-week cruises start at around $5,000 – 6,000 + per person. Please get in touch with lines such as AdventureSmith, Alaskan Dream Cruises, UnCruise, or Seabourn Cruises directly. They offer small ship cruises around Alaska.

Excellent information. We are days away from our first Alaskan Cruise. Your detail will certainly help. Cheers

Thank you so much! I’m thrilled to hear the information was helpful. Wishing you an amazing first Alaskan cruise—it’s going to be an unforgettable experience! Cheers and safe travels!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Good News for Deal-Seekers This Fall: Travel Demand Has Softened

The post-pandemic rush seems finally to be easing, which has airfares lower and hotels offering more inducements to book.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu Derek M. Norman and Christine Chung

Revenge travel after the darkest days of the pandemic contributed to travel roaring back across the globe, with airlines, hotels and cruises reporting double-digit growth and travelers using their savings, taking on debt or even selling their homes to splurge on bucket list adventures or multiple trips.

Now, at least for some travelers, that furious vacation spending is slowing down. While high-income travelers are still booking luxury experiences and jet-setting abroad, other consumers have been cutting back on travel spending to meet the high cost of living.

Data from Tourism Economics (on behalf of the U.S. Travel Association , a travel group) shows that the meteoric rise in post-pandemic travel spending that began in 2021 has reached a plateau. In earnings calls this month, top hotel chains like Hilton and Hyatt reported less demand by leisure travelers for lower-priced brands, while online travel agencies, like Expedia Group and Booking Holdings , and short-term rental companies like Airbnb also noted slowdowns.

For those still seeking a vacation or two, that softening demand means bargains — in the form of lower airfare and hotel perks.

“The revenge travel effect is finally receding, and so are prices,” said Steve Hafner, chief executive of the Kayak search engine, adding that the fall season will be an ideal time for travelers to “snag up a deal.”

Lodging costs stay steady, but perks abound

The hotel industry in the United States has reported a mostly flat performance this year , according to CoStar Group , a real estate analytics company.

“One thing we see across both sectors — both hotels and short-term rentals — is those listings that are the lowest price, attractive to lower-tier consumers, we’re seeing weakness,” said Jamie Lane, chief economist at AirDNA , a short-term rental data and analytics company.

More incentives to book, like room upgrades, are being offered to travelers, particularly loyalty-group members.

“There are more hotels than ever before offering perks with stays,” said Melanie Fish, the head of global public relations for Expedia Group Brands. “They may not be lowering their prices, but they will offer you a bottle of champagne or free breakfast or a spa discount to stay.”

While looking through last-minute Labor Day options on Hotels.com, one of Expedia’s brands, Ms. Fish noticed properties offering rooms with 20 to 30 percent discounts.

A quick search confirms this: One room at the Moon Palace Cancún resort in Mexico was listed for nearly half of its normal price on Hotels.com for a stay over Labor Day weekend.

It’s not just Expedia brands. On Agoda.com, an online travel agency owned by Booking Holdings, a room at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa in Orlando was available for nearly 25 percent off for Labor Day weekend dates. And on Booking.com, one could find a weekend at the Mandalay Bay hotel in Las Vegas in October for nearly 40 percent off, as a limited time deal .

Booking last minute, one trend that arose during the pandemic, persists.

According to research conducted by AirDNA , last-minute reservations for short-term rentals — or bookings typically made the same week of the stay — have almost doubled since 2019.

“It’s not that consumers are not necessarily going to book that trip for Thanksgiving or Christmas, it just appears that they have not booked it yet,” said Ellie Mertz, chief financial officer at Airbnb, during the company’s early August earnings call .

Air travel: Lower prices and more seats

Though demand for air travel has continued to surge in 2024, with international and domestic traffic matching 2019 levels, according to the International Air Transport Association , bookings made in June and July for the months ahead slowed down, especially for domestic travel.

“A likely explanation is a return to prepandemic levels of growth,” the trade group wrote in a recent report.

Looking toward the fall, ticket prices are lower than last year and cabin capacity remains high.

In the United States, carriers have been flying more passenger seats this year compared to last year, according to global travel data provider OAG .

“Now, we’re seeing the scale tipped in the other direction, with more flights scheduled than demand,” said Katy Nastro, a travel expert and spokeswoman at Going , a travel company that monitors airfare deals.

Airfare for international flights leaving from the United States this fall is down about 3 percent compared to last year, according to Airlines Reporting Corporation, which processes the sale of tickets between airlines and travel agencies.

Domestic airfare will remain under 2023 levels for the rest of the year, according to the booking platform Hopper . The average price for a round-trip ticket in September is $240, 8 percent below the average in September 2023.

“We expect airfare to remain low through this fall before rising into the holiday season,” said Hayley Berg, the lead economist at Hopper.

Among the fall deals are round-trip flights in early October, operated by Alaska Airlines between Los Angeles to Honolulu for under $300. An international round-trip airfare from New York to Lisbon with Tap Air Portugal costs about $500. Southwest Airlines is running a fall sale , with one-way domestic flights for as low as $39, and American Airlines is advertising discounted fares to South America , including a flight from Chicago to Bogotá for a little over $300.

Get more for your money by booking a cruise?

While travel demand is decreasing for some sectors, it’s not going away.

“People aren’t going to stop traveling,” said Ms. Fish, of Expedia. “They may book closer to when they’re going to travel. They may take a less ambitious trip. They may star down their hotel stays.”

One sector of the travel industry — cruises — has reported record demand this year, in part by drawing in passengers seeking all-inclusive packages more affordable than land-based vacations.

By the end of 2024, 34.7 million passengers are expected to sail on a cruise, almost 5 million more than the 29.7 million passengers who sailed in 2019, according to Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s trade group. Cruise capacity is forecast to increase by 10 percent from 2024 to 2038.

Lisa Trembley, 34, a behavior therapist from North Carolina, recently booked her first cruise for next May, in the Mediterranean with Norwegian Cruise Lines. The itinerary includes stops at European hot spots like Cannes in France, Corfu in Greece and Sicily.

“If I’m going to go all the way to Europe, I want to see as much of it as I can, but booking individual hotels and trains and flights is unaffordable,” Ms. Trembly said. “I never considered a cruise before, because they are kind of corny, but several friends have recommended it. It’s easy and good value for money, so I will try it.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeğinsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Derek M. Norman is a senior news assistant for the International section of The Times. More about Derek M. Norman

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

Icon Class Ships: Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has been a hit among cruise goers. The cruise line is adding to its fleet of megaships ,  but they have drawn criticism from environmental groups.

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.