How to Budget for a Cruise: A Complete Breakdown of All Expenses

Cruises can seem all-inclusive, but if you’re not careful, the hidden costs will surprise you. From port taxes to Wi-Fi fees, budgeting properly before you sail is the best way to enjoy your trip stress-free.

This guide breaks down every major cruise expense so you can plan ahead and avoid overspending.

Know What’s Included in the Base Fare

Your cruise fare usually includes:
- Your cabin
- Standard meals (buffet, main dining room)
- Onboard entertainment
- Pools, fitness center, and basic activities

But it does not include:
- Alcohol and soda
- Specialty dining
- Gratuities (tips)
- Shore excursions
- Wi-Fi
- Travel insurance
- Taxes, fees, and port charges

These extras can easily double the cost of your cruise if you’re not prepared.

Set a Realistic Budget by Category

Here’s how to budget accurately:

1. Cruise Fare
- Varies based on cabin type, destination, and season
- Example: $800 per person for a 7-night Caribbean cruise

2. Port Taxes and Fees
- Often $100–200 per person
- Usually added during booking but may not be obvious

3. Gratuities
- $14–20 per person, per day
- Example: 7-night cruise × $16 × 2 people = $224

4. Travel to the Port
- Flights, hotel stays, airport transfers, or parking
- Budget $100–600 depending on how far you travel

5. Excursions
- Can be $50–200+ per person, per stop
- Example: $90 × 3 excursions = $270 per person

6. Beverages
- Soda packages: $10–15/day
- Alcoholic drinks: $12–20 each
- Drink packages: $60–90/day

7. Specialty Dining
- Upscale restaurants charge $25–50 per person

8. Wi-Fi and Internet
- Basic access: $15–20/day
- Full access: $25–30/day

9. Onboard Extras
- Spa treatments, fitness classes, photos, souvenirs, arcade
- Budget an extra $50–200 just in case

10. Travel Insurance
- Usually 5–10% of the total cost
- For a $3,000 trip, expect $150–$300

How to Plan Ahead

- Use a spreadsheet or budget planner to track all costs
- Book excursions early to avoid inflated onboard prices
- Pre-pay gratuities and packages to reduce stress later
- Pack smart to avoid last-minute purchases

Once you're on the ship:
- Check your account daily using the cruise line’s app or kiosks
- Avoid impulse purchases
- Use cash for souvenirs at ports (easier to track than card swipes)

Tips to Save Without Sacrificing Fun

- Cruise in shoulder seasons for lower fares
- Bring your own soda or wine (check cruise policy)
- Skip Wi-Fi for digital detox
- Use rewards points to book airfare
- Take free walking tours in port instead of excursions

Final Example

Here’s a rough budget for a couple on a 7-night cruise:

- Cruise fare: $1,600
- Taxes/fees: $300
- Gratuities: $224
- Excursions: $500
- Drinks: $300
- Wi-Fi: $140
- Insurance: $200
- Extras: $100

Total: $3,364

Without budgeting, many travelers assume it’ll cost $1,600–$2,000. That’s why proper planning matters.

Summary

Cruising is one of the best values in travel — but only if you know what to expect. A clear, realistic budget lets you relax, enjoy your vacation, and avoid post-trip regret.