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What Is Included In A Cruise Fare? Independent Planning Guide

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-06-18 · 12 min read

Discover what's truly included in a cruise fare, from dining to entertainment, and how to spot hidden costs before you book.

One of the most common questions from first-time cruisers, and even seasoned sailors, is what is included in a cruise fare? It's a fantastic question, because unlike a traditional hotel stay, a cruise often bundles a surprising amount into its upfront price, offering incredible value. Understanding what you're paying for is key to avoiding hidden costs and truly enjoying your holiday. This comprehensive guide will break down every aspect of your cruise fare, ensuring you know exactly what to expect before you even step onboard. If you're new to cruising, we highly recommend checking out our First Time Cruise Tips for a smooth sailing experience.

What Is Included In A Cruise Fare: The Core Inclusions

When you book a cruise, you're not just paying for a room; you're securing a floating resort experience. The core inclusions form the backbone of your holiday, providing immense value and convenience. These are the elements that are almost universally covered by your initial payment, regardless of the cruise line or itinerary. Understanding these fundamental inclusions is the first step to appreciating the value of a cruise holiday.

Your Accommodation: A Home Away From Home

• Cabin Type: Your chosen cabin (inside, oceanview, balcony, or suite) is fully included. This is your private space for the duration of the cruise, complete with a bed, bathroom, and storage.
• Daily Housekeeping: Expect daily cabin service, often twice a day, including fresh towels and bed-making.
• Basic Amenities: Most cabins come with a TV, mini-fridge (often empty or stocked with chargeable items), hairdryer, and safe. Some lines, like Celebrity Cruises, even include bathrobes and higher-end toiletries as standard.

Dining: A Culinary Journey

• Main Dining Room (MDR): Multi-course breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here, typically with rotating menus. This is a highlight for many, offering elegant service and diverse cuisine.
• Buffet Restaurants: Casual, self-service dining available for all three meals, plus snacks. Options range from international dishes to comfort food. On MSC Virtuosa in September 2025, the Marketplace Buffet was huge, offering everything from pizza to Asian cuisine.
• Casual Eateries: Many ships include additional complimentary options like pizza parlours (e.g., Carnival's Pizza Pirate), burger joints (e.g., Royal Caribbean's Sorrento's Pizza), or cafes for light bites and pastries.
• Room Service (Limited): While some lines charge a delivery fee, a basic continental breakfast is often complimentary.

Beverages: Staying Hydrated

• Water: Tap water is safe to drink and available at all bars and restaurants. Filtered water stations are also common in buffet areas.
• Tea & Coffee: Standard brewed coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are complimentary in dining venues and often available 24/7 at self-service stations.
• Juice: Available at breakfast in the buffet and main dining room. Some lines also offer basic juices throughout the day.
• Milk: Available at all meal times.

Entertainment & Activities: Keeping You Engaged

Beyond food and lodging, a significant portion of your cruise fare goes towards providing a packed schedule of entertainment and activities. This is where cruise lines truly shine, offering something for every age and interest, often at no additional cost. From Broadway-style shows to thrilling onboard adventures, the options are extensive.

Included activities are a fantastic way to try new things without the added expense.

Onboard Entertainment

• Broadway-Style Shows: Large-scale productions in the main theatre, featuring singers, dancers, and acrobats. Think West End quality at sea!
• Live Music: From jazz clubs to piano bars, acoustic sets to rock bands, live music is ubiquitous across the ship.
• Comedy Shows: Many ships feature stand-up comedians, often with family-friendly and adult-only performances.
• Casino: While gambling is extra, access to the casino is included. You can watch the action or try your luck.
• Movies: Indoor cinemas or outdoor 'Movies Under the Stars' are common, showing recent releases and classics.

Activities & Facilities

• Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs: Multiple pools, including family-friendly and adults-only areas, are standard. The Solarium on Royal Caribbean ships is a personal favourite for a peaceful swim.
• Fitness Centre: State-of-the-art gyms with cardio and weight equipment are free to use. Group fitness classes (like yoga or spinning) often incur an extra charge.
• Sports Courts: Basketball, volleyball, mini-golf, and ping-pong are commonly available.
• Kids' Clubs: Supervised programmes for children and teens, categorised by age group, are a huge draw for families. These offer a safe and engaging environment for younger cruisers, allowing parents some downtime. For more on this, see our guide on Best Cruise Lines for Families.

What's NOT Included: Common Extra Costs

While a lot is included, it's equally important to understand what isn't. These are the 'extras' that can significantly increase your holiday budget if you're not careful. Being aware of these additional costs beforehand allows you to budget effectively and avoid any unpleasant surprises on your final bill. This is where many first-time cruisers get caught out, so pay close attention.

Our article on How to Save Money on a Cruise delves into this further.

Food & Drink Extras

1. Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails are almost always an additional charge. Prices can range from £6 for a beer to £12+ for a cocktail. Many lines offer drink packages which can be cost-effective if you drink regularly.
2. Specialty Coffees & Sodas: While basic coffee is free, lattes, cappuccinos, and canned/bottled sodas come at an extra cost. Expect to pay around £3-£5 for a specialty coffee.
3. Specialty Restaurants: These themed dining venues offer enhanced menus and experiences for an additional cover charge (typically £25-£50 per person) or à la carte pricing.
4. Premium Room Service: Beyond the basic complimentary breakfast, ordering other meals via room service usually incurs a delivery fee (e.g., around £8 on Royal Caribbean) and/or à la carte pricing for items.

Onboard Services & Activities

1. Shore Excursions: Tours and activities in port are a significant extra. While you can often explore independently, organised excursions can range from £40 for a simple transfer to £200+ for unique experiences.
2. Spa & Salon Services: Massages, facials, hair styling, manicures, and pedicures are all chargeable. Expect prices comparable to high-street salons, often with a premium.
3. Wi-Fi / Internet Access: Internet packages are sold separately, usually by the day or for the entire cruise. Prices vary significantly by line and speed, from £10-£30 per day. For instance, Royal Caribbean's VOOM Surf & Stream package can be about £15-£20 per day.
4. Casino & Bingo: Gambling activities are, of course, an extra cost.
5. Retail Shops: Duty-free shops selling clothing, jewellery, souvenirs, and liquor are available for purchases.
6. Laundry Services: Self-service laundromats (on some ships) or professional laundry/dry-cleaning services are chargeable.
7. Photos: Professional photos taken by the ship's photographers are available for purchase.

Additional Costs to Consider Before & During Your Cruise

Beyond the onboard extras, there are several other costs you need to factor into your overall cruise holiday budget. These are often overlooked but can add up quickly, especially if you're travelling from the UK to a fly-cruise destination. Planning for these ahead of time will prevent any financial stress.

Pre-Cruise Expenses

• Flights & Transfers: Unless explicitly stated, flights to your departure port and transfers to the ship are not included. Budget for these separately, especially for fly-cruises from the UK to destinations like the Caribbean or Mediterranean.
• Pre/Post-Cruise Accommodation: Many cruisers opt to arrive a day early or stay a day later to explore the embarkation/disembarkation city. This requires booking hotel stays.
• Travel Insurance: Absolutely essential! Cruise-specific travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Never cruise without it. Read our Cruise Travel Insurance Guide for more information.
• Visas & Passports: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Some itineraries may require specific visas, which are your responsibility to obtain.
• Parking: If departing from a UK port like Southampton or Liverpool, parking at the port or a nearby facility will be an additional cost, typically £80-£150 for a 7-night cruise.

Onboard & In-Port Expenses

• Medical Services: The ship's medical centre is for emergencies and charges for consultations, medication, and treatments. This is where good travel insurance is vital.
• Port Taxes & Fees: These are sometimes included in the advertised fare but are often listed separately. Always check your booking confirmation for clarity.
• Souvenirs & Shopping: Any purchases made in port or onboard shops are extra.
• Hairdresser/Barber: Services in the onboard salon are chargeable.
• Art Auctions: While attending is free, purchasing art is a significant expense.
• Special Events/Classes: Some premium classes, like cooking demonstrations or wine tastings, might have an additional fee.

Comparing Cruise Fare Inclusions: Line by Line

The term 'included' can mean different things to different cruise lines. While the core inclusions remain, the extent of what's covered beyond that varies dramatically, impacting the overall perceived value. Understanding these differences is crucial when comparing prices and choosing the best cruise line for your budget and preferences. It's not just about the headline price; it's about what you get for it.

It's a fantastic deal, but it's not entirely free.

As you can see from the table, while the basics are consistent, the 'premium' inclusions vary. Celebrity Cruises, for example, has moved towards an 'Always Included' model, bundling drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities into the base fare, which simplifies budgeting for many. Our Celebrity Cruises Review explores this in more detail.

Maximising Value: How to Get More From Your Cruise Fare

Knowing what's included is one thing, but truly maximising the value of your cruise fare is another. There are several strategies you can employ to ensure you get the most out of your holiday without breaking the bank on extras. It's all about smart planning and being strategic with your choices.

Getting good value is about making the most of what you've already paid for.

1. Pre-Pay Gratuities: Often, you can pre-pay gratuities before your cruise. This locks in the rate and means one less bill to worry about onboard. Some lines offer a slight discount for pre-payment.
2. Consider Drink Packages: If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, or sodas, a drink package can offer significant savings. Use our Cruise Drink Package Calculator to determine if it's worth it for your specific consumption habits.
3. Book Shore Excursions Independently: While convenient, cruise line excursions are often more expensive. Research local operators or explore ports independently to save money. Just ensure you're back at the ship before 'all aboard' time!
4. Utilise Complimentary Dining: Resist the urge to eat at specialty restaurants every night. The main dining room and buffet offer excellent quality and variety.
5. Bring Your Own Water Bottle: As mentioned, this saves you from buying bottled water onboard. Many ships have filtered water stations.
6. Take Advantage of Onboard Activities: Don't overlook the free entertainment! Attend shows, lectures, trivia, and use the pools and gym. It's all part of your fare.
7. Look for All-Inclusive Deals: Some cruise lines or travel agents offer promotions that bundle extras like drinks, Wi-Fi, or gratuities. Compare these 'all-inclusive' fares against standard fares plus the cost of individual extras to see which offers better value for you. This is particularly common with Celebrity Cruises' 'Always Included' or NCL's 'Free at Sea' offers.

Is a Cruise Fare Good Value for Money?

After breaking down all the inclusions and extras, the ultimate question remains: is a cruise fare good value for money? In our opinion, absolutely yes, for most travellers. When you compare the cost of a cruise to a land-based holiday that includes accommodation, three meals a day, entertainment, and travel between multiple destinations, cruising often comes out significantly cheaper.

Consider a 7-night cruise from Southampton to the Norwegian Fjords. For an average cost of £700-£1200 per person, you get your cabin, all meals, world-class entertainment, and transport to several stunning ports. To replicate that experience on land – hotels, restaurants, transport, and shows – would easily cost double, if not more. The convenience and bundled value are unparalleled.

When a Cruise Fare Offers Exceptional Value

1. For Families: With kids' clubs, pools, and family-friendly entertainment included, cruises offer incredible value for families. Parents can enjoy adult time knowing their children are safely entertained.
2. For Foodies: If you love to eat and enjoy variety, the endless complimentary dining options are a huge draw. You can try different cuisines every night without worrying about the bill.
3. For Those Who Love Entertainment: If you enjoy live shows, music, and a packed activity schedule, you'll find immense value in the included entertainment offerings.
4. For Multi-Destination Travel: Cruising allows you to visit multiple countries or cities without the hassle of packing, unpacking, and arranging daily transport. Your 'hotel' travels with you.
5. For Budget-Conscious Travellers: By sticking to complimentary dining, basic drinks, and free activities, you can have a fantastic holiday for a predictable, upfront cost.

When a Cruise Might Feel Less Value-Oriented

1. For Minimalists: If you prefer quiet, solitude, and don't engage in many activities or dining options, you might feel you're paying for things you don't use.
2. For Heavy Drinkers (without a package): If you consume a lot of alcohol and don't purchase a drink package, your onboard bill can quickly escalate, diminishing the overall value.
3. For Independent Explorers: If you prefer to explore ports entirely on your own and avoid all ship-organised activities, some of the entertainment value might be lost on you.
4. For Those Who Need Constant Connectivity: If you require high-speed, constant Wi-Fi, the cost of internet packages can add a significant chunk to your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About What's Included

These are the queries that often pop up in forums and conversations, so hopefully, these answers will clarify any lingering doubts you might have.

apply the P&O-specific fare guide provide the next decision detail for this topic.

What are the absolute essentials included in every standard cruise fare?

Every standard cruise fare universally includes your accommodation (cabin), main meals in the complimentary dining venues (main dining room, buffet, some casual eateries), basic non-alcoholic beverages like water, tea, coffee, and juice, and a wide array of onboard entertainment and activities. This forms the core value proposition, ensuring you have a place to sleep, eat, and be entertained without additional charges for these fundamental services.

Are gratuities always included in the cruise fare, or are they an extra cost?

Gratuities, or daily service charges, are typically an additional cost on most cruise lines, rather than being included in the base fare. They usually range from £10 to £15 per person, per day, and are automatically added to your onboard account. However, some luxury cruise lines or specific fare types (like 'all-inclusive' packages) do include gratuities, so it's crucial to check the specific terms of your booking. For more details, see our guide on Cruise Gratuities Explained.

How much extra should I budget for things not included in a standard cruise fare?

The amount you should budget for extras varies significantly based on your spending habits, but a good starting point for a 7-night cruise is around £300-£700 per person. This typically covers things like specialty dining, alcoholic drinks, shore excursions, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, and souvenirs. If you plan to indulge in many extras, especially drink packages or multiple excursions, this budget could easily double or triple. Our article on How Much Spending Money for a 7-Night Cruise offers a detailed breakdown.

Do all cruise lines offer the same inclusions in their standard fares?

No, inclusions can vary quite a bit between cruise lines and even between different fare types on the same line. Budget-friendly lines like MSC Cruises or Carnival might have fewer inclusions, while premium lines like Celebrity Cruises or luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas often include more, such as specialty dining, drinks, and even shore excursions. Always read the 'What's Included' section carefully before booking to avoid surprises and compare apples to apples.

Are flights and transfers to the port usually included in the cruise fare?

Flights and transfers to the port are almost never included in the standard base cruise fare. These are typically additional costs that you need to arrange and budget for separately. However, some cruise lines offer 'cruise and stay' packages or promotional deals that bundle flights and transfers, especially for longer or exotic itineraries. Always confirm these details with your travel agent or the cruise line directly when booking, particularly if sailing from UK departure ports like Southampton or Dover.

What's the difference between a standard fare and an 'all-inclusive' fare?

A standard cruise fare covers the basics: cabin, main meals, basic drinks, and entertainment. An 'all-inclusive' fare, on the other hand, bundles many common extras into the upfront price, often including alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and sometimes even shore excursions or spa credits. While 'all-inclusive' fares appear more expensive initially, they can offer better value and predictability for those who plan to utilise many of these services. Always check the specific 'all-inclusive' terms as inclusions can still vary.

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