How to Avoid Unexpected Cruise Fees That Blow Your Budget

Cruises advertise affordable rates, but surprise fees can quickly wreck your budget. Gratuities, port charges, drinks, and Wi-Fi are often not included in your cruise fare — and they add up fast.

Here’s how to spot and avoid the most common cruise fees, so your vacation stays on track.

Gratuities: The Hidden Daily Fee

Most cruise lines automatically charge daily gratuities (tips) to your onboard account:
- Ranges from $14 to $20 per person, per day
- Applied to your room steward, dining staff, and service crew

How to avoid surprises:
- Prepay gratuities when you book
- Or set money aside in your budget ahead of time

A 7-night cruise for two can total $200+ just in tips.

Port Fees and Taxes

These are government-imposed and vary by region and cruise line:
- Usually $100–$300 per person
- Not always shown in the base fare

What to do:
- Double-check the final booking price before payment
- Read the cruise invoice for “taxes and fees” line items

Drink Packages and Beverage Fees

Most cruises do not include:
- Alcohol
- Soft drinks
- Specialty coffees or bottled water

Options:
- Buy a drink package ($60–$90/day)
- Pay per drink ($12–$18 for cocktails, $3–$6 for soda)

Save by:
- Bringing your own wine (some lines allow 1 bottle per adult)
- Drinking water, iced tea, or juice (usually free)

Wi-Fi and Internet Access

Wi-Fi is rarely free on cruises — and it’s often slow or tiered:
- Social packages: $12–$15/day
- Full streaming: $20–$30/day

To save:
- Use port days for free Wi-Fi at cafes
- Skip internet and enjoy a digital detox

Specialty Dining Fees

Beyond the main dining room and buffet, you’ll find:
- Steakhouses, sushi bars, Italian restaurants ($25–$60/person)
- Room service (some ships charge per item or per order)

Avoid extra charges by:
- Sticking to included dining
- Only booking specialty meals for special occasions

Shore Excursions

Official cruise excursions can be pricey:
- $60–$200+ per person
- Multiply that by the number of ports

To reduce costs:
- Book excursions independently
- Explore ports on your own (safe in most major destinations)
- Look for walking tours or local shuttle services

Spa, Fitness, and Wellness Fees

Massage, acupuncture, and salon treatments are always extra:
- Massages: $100+
- Acupuncture or facials: $120–$200
- Fitness classes like yoga or cycling: $10–$25/session

Solution:
- Use the free gym
- Book spa treatments on port days (often discounted)

Onboard Entertainment and Extras

Most shows and events are included, but extras might cost:
- Bingo: $10–$30 per card
- Arcade games and simulators
- Photo packages or professional portraits

Tip: Set a daily spending cap so you don’t go overboard.

Currency Exchange and ATM Fees

Using your card or withdrawing cash in port may incur:
- Currency conversion fees
- International ATM charges
- Onboard ATM withdrawal fees ($6–$10 per transaction)

Plan ahead:
- Bring local currency for ports that don’t take cards
- Use fee-free cards or exchange cash before departure

Laundry Costs

Some cruises offer:
- $3–$5 per item for laundering
- $15–$30 for “fill-the-bag” laundry specials

Avoid by:
- Packing smart
- Bringing wrinkle-release spray and laundry soap sheets


Summary

Cruise fees are real — but predictable. With planning, you can enjoy your vacation without a single shock on your final bill.