cunard cruise extra costs

11 extra charges on cruise ships that will drive you nuts — and what to do about them

One of the great allures of cruising is that a lot is included in the fare.

Those $499-a-week rates that you see advertised include not just a room on a ship but also meals and entertainment. The ship also acts as your transportation — it gets you from place to place at no extra cost.

Still, for the most part, cruises aren't all-inclusive. On many ships, there are a lot of little things — and some big things — for which you'll pay extra.

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

Some of the things that come with an additional charge are what you would expect. You'll pay extra for treatments in shipboard spas, for instance, or for guided shore excursions in most cases.

But on many ships, there also are a growing number of extra fees that might take you by surprise — particularly if you haven't been on a ship in a while.

For instance, some lines now charge extra for room service — something that always used to be free. On some ships, certain menu items in the "free" main dining room now come with an extra charge.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Here at TPG, we call this the nickel-and-diming-ization of the cruise world, and we're not happy about it. You shouldn't be happy about it, either.

You also shouldn't assume there's nothing you can do about it. In the segments below, we look at nearly a dozen different fees that you may encounter when cruising on big-ship cruise lines — and offer advice on what to do about them.

Taxes, fees and port charges

At many lines, the extra-fee shocks start even before you get on a ship.

The first one you're likely to encounter is a levy for "taxes, fees and port charges." It'll appear on your final invoice during the booking process, and it can often run into hundreds of dollars per person.

It can make a sailing significantly more expensive than it initially appears.

As of the date of this posting, for instance, Carnival Cruise Line was advertising four-night cruises to Mexico out of Los Angeles starting at $179 per person.

However, that doesn't include taxes, fees and port charges of $118.65. So the true starting price of the cruise is 66% more than what you see in big print on the line's website.

Related: 14 things you should do before every cruise

The taxes, fees and port charges line on invoices covers all the fees that countries, states, towns and ports charge ships and their occupants — fees that the line passes on to you.

You can't get around these fees. However, you can go into the booking process wide-eyed by searching the fine print on booking sites for such fees before you commit to a particular sailing.

Internet access fees

Free internet has become standard at a lot of hotel chains, so it might seem logical that cruise lines would offer free internet, too. After all, cruise ships are just hotels that happen to float. In general, though, only the highest-end lines in the cruise world (and many river lines) offer free internet.

At many big brands, such as Royal Caribbean , Carnival and Princess Cruises , you'll sometimes pay exorbitant amounts for internet access. The fastest service on Carnival vessels, for instance, was recently priced at $18.70 per person, per day . Compare that to what you pay for the internet at home.

One way to avoid the charges is to wait until you're in a port to check your emails, read the news online and do whatever else you do on the internet. You can often find free internet in the cruise terminal where your ship docks or at a nearby cafe or eatery.

Related: 26 cruising secrets from an expert that will blow your mind

Another option: Some lines offer less expensive internet plans that have scaled-back access. Carnival, for instance, has a less pricey "social" plan that brings access to key social sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.), as well as messaging services such as WhatsApp — but not much else — for $12.75 a day. It may be all you need.

Note that these internet charges seem to do nothing but rise in cost. At $12.75 Carnival's social plan costs 37% more than it did two years ago.

Room service 'convenience' fees

Complimentary room service used to be a standard on cruise ships, but a growing number of lines now charge extra for it.

The world's biggest cruise line by passenger capacity, Royal Caribbean, for instance, now levies a $7.95 per order "service charge" for room service even if all you order is a single side of hash browns.

It also — and this could really drive you nuts — adds an 18% "gratuity fee" on top of the service charge for good measure. For the record, we find that fee-on-top-of-a-fee structure absurd. Just say you're going to charge us $9.38.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Other lines that have started charging for room service include Norwegian Cruise Line , which now has a $9.95 "convenience charge" for room service. Celebrity Cruises also added a $9.95 room service fee this year for all items except Continental breakfast. Like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity adds an 18% gratuity fee on top of that charge — another service fee on top of a service fee situation that we find innane.

The way around these fees is simple: Don't order room service.

On many ships, there is no-extra-charge food available nearly around the clock from multiple outlets just steps away from your room, from casual buffet eateries to grab-and-go pizza stands. All it takes is a short walk from your cabin to get it.

Related: 21 tips and tricks to make your cruise go more smoothly

Drinks charges

While meals are generally included on cruise ships (at least in some onboard eateries), you'll pay extra for most drinks — and not just alcoholic drinks.

On many ships, soda and bottled water come with an extra charge (though, oddly, coffee, iced tea, lemonade and hot chocolate usually are available for free). A soda can cost anywhere from $2 to $4, depending on the line.

The exception is on luxury lines, where drinks of all types are generally included in the fare. Many river lines will include many drinks, including beer and wine, with lunches and dinners.

If you're a big drinker, consider a drinks package. It can save you money if you normally would order a large number of drinks every day. That said, drinks package prices have soared of late, with one of the biggest lines now charging $138 a day for its top-tier drinks package.

Related: Are drinks packages worth the price? A line-by-line guide

Corkage fees

Speaking of drinks, many cruise lines will allow you to bring your own wine or Champagne on board, usually in limited quantities. If you do so, be careful where you drink it. Depending on where you pop open your own bottle, you might be slapped with a corkage fee of $15 or more.

Lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Princess levy corkage fees for passengers opening their own bottles in restaurants, bars, lounges and other onboard venues.

The only way to avoid this fee is to open your wine or Champagne in your room and then either drink it there or take it around the ship in a nondescript glass.

Not that this always works: Norwegian charges a $15 corkage fee even if you want to drink your own wine in your own room. It will levy the charge the moment you walk on board with a bottle.

Fees for lounging in adults-only areas

Several of the biggest cruise lines like to boast about the adults-only sunning areas on their ships where you can escape from the little ones. However, what they sometimes leave out is that they'll often charge you for the privilege of being in a kids-free zone.

Princess, for instance, charges $20 per person for a half-day pass to the Sanctuary, an adults-only lounge area found on most of its ships (a full-day pass costs $40 per person).

Norwegian has an adult lounge area called Vibe Beach Club on some of its ships that can cost a whopping $99 per person for a day pass (or $278 for two if you want a cabana). Week-long passes, at $209 per person, are a better deal.

If you love the idea of an adults-only deck-top area but don't want to pay for it, you might want to look at Disney Cruise Line and Carnival ships. Both lines offer adults-only zones that are available to passengers at no extra charge.

Or consider a trip with Viking or Virgin Voyages . Neither allows kids, so every lounge area on the ship is a kids-free area.

Related: 5 cruise lines to try if you can't stand being around kids

Fees for select menu items in the 'free' dining room

One of the hallmarks of cruising is that there's always a free meal available somewhere on a ship. All but the smallest vessels usually feature a main dining room that is included in the fare, as well as a buffet eatery where you can count on getting complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner.

However, in recent years some lines have started sneaking extra charges into these "free" eateries.

Carnival and Royal Caribbean now charge extra for filet mignon, lobster or a surf-and-turf combination entree in their main restaurants. The prices range from around $17 to well over $30 a plate.

Princess sometimes turns its free buffet area into a "crab shack experience" serving such items as snow crab, jumbo shrimp, clams and mussels for a hefty fee.

The way to avoid this: Order the chicken.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Fees for using spa areas

A growing number of cruise ships have luxurious spa complexes that go well beyond treatment rooms.

You'll find sprawling "thermal suites" with saunas and steam rooms, thalassotherapy pools, heated loungers, rain showers and even snow rooms (with real snow) where you can laze away the day. On many vessels, though, you'll face a steep charge just to set foot in one of these areas.

Norwegian charges $199 per person per week for a thermal suite pass at its spas (day passes also are available for $49), and lines such as Cunard and Carnival have daily fees for access to thermal suites, too.

The good news: Not every thermal suite on a ship comes with an extra charge. Fast-growing Viking has made free access to the thermal suites in its spas a hallmark of the line.

Fees for access to top attractions

Some of the signature attractions on big cruise ships such as Norwegian Encore and Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas come with extra fees.

Norwegian Encore's much-ballyhooed go-cart track (it's one of the only ones at sea) will set you back $15 for a single, eight-lap ride. The ship's nearby laser tag course will cost you $10 for a five-minute shoot-out. In both cases, you can buy a weeklong pass, but only if you're OK dropping an extra $199 per person.

Royal Caribbean, meanwhile, will charge you extra for a 60-second flying experience on Anthem of the Seas' skydiving simulator (after one initial free ride). Carnival charges as much as $59 for a two-hour class in the kitchen classroom on one of its newer ships, Carnival Panorama , and tacks on an 18% gratuity fee on top of that, too.

Other cruise ship attractions that often come with an extra charge include wine-tasting events, IMAX theater shows, escape rooms and behind-the-scenes tours.

Related: 12 cruise ships with the most fun attractions

Fitness class fees

Access to the fitness center on your cruise ship will be included in the fare, but that doesn't mean you can go to fitness classes for free. On many ships, you'll pay $10 or more for classes in yoga, Pilates, spinning and the like.

This isn't always the case. River lines and luxury lines often offer fitness classes at no extra charge, as does adult-only line Virgin Voyages. However, on most mass-market ships, expect to pay extra.

If taking lots of fitness classes is part of your vacation routine, you might consider the value of trading up to a higher-end cruise line that includes fitness classes (and other extras) in its fare.

Automatic gratuities

Some cruise lines call them service fees. Others call them gratuity charges. Either way, the daily fees that some cruise lines tack on to passenger bills can be a shock to first-time cruisers.

At some lines, these charges run as high as $25.50 per day. Also, unlike the typical service fee or resort fee found at a land resort, they are not per room. They are per person .

At big lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, it's not uncommon for a family of four staying in a single cabin to see around $70 to $80 a day in service fees added to its bills (Royal Caribbean recently hiked its service charge to $72 per day for a family of four). On a typical seven-night cruise, that's around $500 in fees for a family of four.

Want to avoid such charges? One way around them is to book a cruise during one of the frequent promotions that some lines offer where they throw in service charges for free.

Another option: Consider one of the growing numbers of lines that include service charges in their base fares.

Lines that now include gratuities in their fares include Azamara, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn , SeaDream Yacht Club , Silversea Cruises and Virgin Voyages .

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Cruise lines without lots of extra charges

If you'd rather not bother with workarounds and just want a more inclusive cruise experience, you might want to book a trip with a luxury cruise line such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea or Seabourn. Luxury lines generally include almost everything in their base fares, from drinks of all kinds to gratuities.

Luxury lines have much higher fares than mainstream brands such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Princess, of course. However, the price differential sometimes isn't nearly what it appears when you start to factor in all the extra charges you'll experience on a less all-inclusive line.

River cruise lines at many price points also are known for their all-inclusiveness. It's common for even mid-priced river cruise lines to include shore tours in every port, for instance. Many offer wine, beer and soda with lunch and dinner at no extra charge.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
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• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

• Cunard Line

Extra costs

By Organum , February 17, 2019 in Cunard Line

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I am looking at a Cunard QM2 cruise for next January but find details of costs difficult to pin down.

Two major potential costs are gratuities and booze. I cannot find the gratuities situation on the Cunard website. 

Can someone advise as over 56days if a daily charge it could be substantial money.

I also cannot find drinks packages.

Many thanks

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21 minutes ago, Organum said: I am looking at a Cunard QM2 cruise for next January but find details of costs difficult to pin down. Two major potential costs are gratuities and booze. I cannot find the gratuities situation on the Cunard website.  Can someone advise as over 56days if a daily charge it could be substantial money.   I also cannot find drinks packages.   Many thanks   Richard

The gratuities will be $13.50 per person, per day Grills, $11.50 per person per day all other. The drinks packages are  a Beers, Wines and Spirits Option ($69* per person per day), a Premium Soft Drinks Option ($29* per person per day), a Soft Drinks Option ($10* per person per day) and a Speciality Hot drinks option ($15* per person per day). These prices are inclusive of 15% bar service charge. Some cruises are offered with 'free' alcoholic drinks of $12.50 per. Your Travel Agent can help with that. 

I hope this helps. Bon Voyage

10 minutes ago, Bigmike911 said: The gratuities will be $13.50 per person, per day Grills, $11.50 per person per day all other. The drinks packages are  a Beers, Wines and Spirits Option ($69* per person per day), a Premium Soft Drinks Option ($29* per person per day), a Soft Drinks Option ($10* per person per day) and a Speciality Hot drinks option ($15* per person per day). These prices are inclusive of 15% bar service charge. Some cruises are offered with 'free' alcoholic drinks of $12.50 per. Your Travel Agent can help with that.    I hope this helps. Bon Voyage

This is only a privilege that happens in the US we very rarely if at all get "free drinks packages" in the UK.

Thanks guys. At the Cruise Exhibition in London one of the presenters said this was common practice in the US but less so in the UK.

Seems a lot but in the scheme of things maybe less so!

54 minutes ago, majortom10 said: This is only a privilege that happens in the US we very rarely if at all get "free drinks packages" in the UK.

It does happen sometimes. A couple of Christmases ago, we had a free drinks in the Grills offer.

17 minutes ago, exlondoner said:   It does happen sometimes. A couple of Christmases ago, we had a free drinks in the Grills offer.

It does very rarely where it is a regular offer in US. We booked on QE for a cruise in Queens Grill and soon after we booked it they offered a "free drinks package" and was initially upset but then realised if I had booked the same suite the price of cruise had gone up over £600pp so wasnt really a "free drinks package". They also seem to get free gratuities offered a lot in US which we never get offered in UK.

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Cunard Review

Wednesday, April 17th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Best for British-style luxury sailing worldwide
• Three ships in the fleet (with another debuting in 2024)
• Guests of all ages permitted (not an 18+ cruise line)
• Most dining is included (The Golden Lion gastro-pub is extra)
• Recommended gratuities ($14.50 or $16.50 per person, per night) not included in fare

Cunard is a British cruise line with a rich history and tradition, dating back to 1840. It is known for its luxurious ships, outstanding service, and elegant formal evenings. Cunard operates three ocean liners, the Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth, which offer a wide range of itineraries around the world.

Think British and formal

The Queen Mary 2 is Cunard's flagship and the only ocean liner in the world that regularly makes transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton. It is a grand and stately ship that harks back to the golden age of ocean travel, with elegant public areas, formal dining rooms, and spacious cabins. Onboard, guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, including live entertainment, art classes, and lectures by well-known experts.

More relaxed experience on the smaller ships

The Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth are both smaller than the Queen Mary 2 but still offer a luxurious cruising experience. These ships have a more contemporary design and a relaxed, informal atmosphere, but still retain the high standards of service and cuisine that Cunard is known for. They offer a range of itineraries, from short breaks to longer voyages to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Caribbean.

Spring break cruises are available - just not in the Caribbean

Because of what Cunard does and doesn't specialize in, it was to be expected that there wouldn't be any March sailings in the Caribbean (which is what we used as a comparison point across cruise lines): they're just not operating in that part of the world at that time. Of course not: why would a cruise line with British heritage have anything to do with spring break timing in the US?! But, if you're trying to line up an amazing trip over that holiday, Cunard can be found going from Sydney to Hong Kong (16 nights), Sydney to Singapore (22 nights), Sydney to Cape Town (39 nights), or taking "short break" trips in Australia, from Hong Kong to Singapore, you get the idea.

Pack your tux or gown

One of the unique features of Cunard is its formal evenings, which are a throwback to the grandeur of the early days of ocean travel. On these evenings, guests are expected to dress up in their finest attire, with men wearing tuxedos or suits and women donning elegant gowns. The formal evenings include a special dinner, dancing, and live entertainment, and are a highlight of the Cunard experience.

Cunard is also known for its exceptional dining options. Each ship offers a range of restaurants, from traditional formal dining rooms to more casual eateries. Most dining choices are included in your fare, but the gastro-pub options at The Golden Lion will incur an extra cost. The cuisine is inspired by the destinations visited on the itinerary, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Cunard also offers a famous afternoon tea service, which is a nod to the line's British heritage.

Luxury but not all-inclusive

Cunard is a luxury cruise line, but it's not all-inclusive. You'll have to pay for any shore excursions you choose, and your gratuities ($14.50 per person per night for Britannia and Britannia Club staterooms, $16.50 per person per night for Queens and Princess Grill suites) will be automatically added to your account. WiFi is another extra that you'll pay for, unless you reach Gold, Platinum, or Diamond World Club "frequent sailor" benefits - or if you're taking one of Cunard's exceptional World Voyages (think sailings of at least 16 nights, and ones that go up to 100+ nights and visit ports in all four continents).

Not adults-only

Also, don't expect your Cunard cruise to be child-free. Children are welcome on Cunard, and there are clubs for those young cruisers with age-specific activities offered day and night.

Wonderful cruise line but not a match for many US-based guests

For US-based vacationers looking to cruise in exotic locations around the world and have a fancy onboard experience, Cunard could be worth looking at - especially for those who love all things British and having a daily afternoon tea would be the epitome of excellence. On the other hand, if you want easy-peasy departures from US ports year-round, Cunard won't fit the bill.

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The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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• Cunard Line

Princess Grill: Worth the extra expense?

By Debbers , February 23, 2010 in Cunard Line

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Please forgive a Cunard newcomer if this is a silly question. Is Princess Grill accommodation on the QV worth the additional cost compared to a verandah? Is the service much better? More important, is the food a good deal better? We are not titans of industry or celebrities (though we are witty and charming tablemates ;))--will we fit in among the Princess Grill passengers? Thanks very much!

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We have only travelled Britannia on QV but have travelled Princess grill on QM2.

We like the idea of dinning between 1830 and 2100 it allows you to choose when you have dinner and to choose to go to the early or late show.

You do get a couple of extra choices on the menu and you can have that day’s menu as room service.

There are other benefits but that's the main reason we have booked it again.

Terry & Debbie

And of course, you have a signifcantly larger cabin with a handful of nicer ammenities.

As far as the food goes, I don't think its actually that much better or even different than what's served in the Britannia restuarant, but there are certainly more choices, easier to order off menu, and if you like table-side prepartion and slightly more formal and attentive service, it makes for a lovely eveing.

We have booked QG for the last three TAs, and I think overall the determining factor for us is the size of the accomodation, with the Grill exerperience (while lovely) a secondary consideration.

I would agree with the previous writer as well. The cabins are beautiful and spacious, and like a larger room in a hotel, that's probably what you're actually paying for when you book PG or QG.

Also, on my past two TAs (in QG), we felt completely at home in the restaurant. And the same experience again on a recent QV QG voyage.

On the QV, the Grills are located on 11 deck with the lovely Grills Lounge and the open air courtyard between them. They are great locations. The food choices in the Grills are a bit wider selection than in the Brittania.

But to me the real appeal is dining when I want to not on a rigid schedule. And there is a sense of more open space in the Grills as well.

The Princess Grill suite is a big bigger than the usual balcony rooms, and that makes a pleasant difference as well.

I book Queens Grill accomodation, even though its a bit more than other choices because I just like the experience. To me a cruise should be something special, and the Grills experience allways make it feel special to me.

My wife and I, veterans of months of voyages on QM2 and a month on QV feel strongly that on QV the Grills are a world apart and well-worth the extra cost. On QM2, in contrast, though we certainly prefer the Grills, there is, on QM2, little sense of the superior ambiance which the Grills Lounge, restaurants and Upper Grills Terrace offer on QV. And if you are going to spring for Princess, you may as well go all the way to Queens!

And if you are going to spring for Princess, you may as well go all the way to Queens!

What are the main differences in the dining experience between PG and QG?

Not so much of a difference in my experience. On QM2 the actual dinning rooms are quite similar, and you can always ask for "caviar". In theory the QG has thebest wait staff, but the people in PG are wonderful. Again, just my perspective, the main differnce is in the accomodation. I have wonderful dining in both rooms, and would rate the dining experience overall as about equal. Curious what others think.

guernseyguy

Is Princess Grill accommodation on the QV worth the additional cost

Yes. Fine dining vs (excellent) banquet catering. Wonderful dining room - and lovely Grill Lounge.

Rolfe. If it was one word it would be caviar, but its a bit more than one word. You can request, with enough advanced notice, just about any speciality food that can be found.

I love, at lunch, to request a particular dessert with dinner, say cherries jubilee, or bananas foster. And as its being prepared you can hear even first time Queens Grills guests say "I didn't see that on the menu."

If you want Beef Wellington, tomorrow night ask for it at tonights dinner.

There is a special ala carte menu, and you can order off it anytime you wish, and yes it has a proper caviar service.

And finally in the grills accomodation, the luncheon and dinner menus arrive each morning in your suite. You have time to think about both lunch and dinner to make your selections and if you should desire, you can have your grills meal, in your suite as room service. I don't want to miss the fun, however.

I hope this answers your question.

In the QG, you simply view the menu as Italians view road signs, just there as a suggestion.

Surprisingly, on the QV in December there was no "Christmas" menu, so after discussions with the Maitre d' (Ico) I wrote out what we thought should be there and the next evening we had our very own festive dinner including individual Christmas pudding with real brandy (hic) sauce.

You may also dine in room (from the QG menu) and will be served by your butler.

...but, as warned before, only do it if you are prepared to give Mr Cunard thousands of pounds for evermore, as you won't go back down.

If it's on board, you can have it, at any meal time.

Thanks BigMike and BigMac. So that I understand correctly, in PG you can order off the menu, but just not to the extent of QG?

Hi there - i've not experienced the QG dining experience (but hopefully will experience it one day) but as a PG diner, we had no problem in ordering something "off menu" when requested. In fact my husband was asking the waiter if there was likely to be a beef wellington served during our trip. when told it wasn't on the menu we carried on enjoying what was on the menu. the next day, the waiters brought us a Beef Wellington, specially prepared by the chef in the grill. My betting is that if there is something that you fancy that is not on the menu, a polite word/enquiry would conjure up your hearts desire - it seemed to me that our waiters just couldn't do enough for us - hard to imagine how it could be topped at the QG (but more than happy to find out).

Overall the PG accommodation/dining is a very very nice experience. I know the QG rooms are slightly bigger (depending on the grade) but we were more than happy to book up again for the PG. I'm afraid that if we did book the QG then we would be hooked for life and there would be no going back. The difference in price is not that much from a P1 to Q5 (or is it 4?) and we think that we may book up next years cruise and treat ourselves to the Queens Grill accommodation. In the meantime we have booked another PG for our September cruise and we are both really looking forward to the experience. Whatever you choose I know it will be fab.

Although my bank manager probably will not allow me to book QG, as opposed to D7 (or free upgrade), as a solo cruiser I wonder if any one has booked QG solo, and how did they cope at meal time, did they sit alone at a table for one? It does seem reading the passengers in QG are either couples or foursomes.

I know I would think I had died and gone to heaven if I could ever have afteroon tea in the QG!

Although my bank manager probably will not allow me to book QG, as opposed to D7 (or free upgrade), as a solo cruiser I wonder if any one has booked QG solo, and how did they cope at meal time, did they sit alone at a table for one? It does seem reading the passengers in QG are either couples or foursomes.   I know I would think I had died and gone to heaven if I could ever have afteroon tea in the QG!   Lynn

P.S. I look forward to meeting you one of these days aboard QM2, Lynn. And when we do, please be our guest for tea in QGL whenever you care to take tea.

I was on the Christmas/New Year's voyage and in Queens Grill. I had asked to be put on with other singles. My request was not met for the first night, but from the second night on I was seated with other singles. Having said that, I would not have had a problem at a table for two. To be able to come and go as I please means a great deal to me, and it is difficult to do when dining with others in a polite society.

Accommodation in the Grill cabins afford you the opportunity for a more intimate experience, not only for dining, but even in the Grill Lounge, a smaller venue more easily conducive to conversation without the steady stream of activity that occurs in the larger lounges. This is not to say that I do not enjoy the Pub, the Commodore, or the Chart Room, because I do. It is just nice to have the choice. Also, in the Grill Lounge there are frequent guest entertainers not available in other venues. The afternoon tea is more peaceful and attentive, although I have enjoyed it in the Queens Room, especially when there was a tea dance.

For those who enjoy the sun (there is also a great shade area), the Grills Sun Deck is a lovely haven. In the morning fruit kabobs are served, tea sandwiches pre-lunch and lunch time, ice cream in the afternoon. Just little perks that add to the experience. One of my table mates, and a couple from another table nearby, had a great time up there. We are getting together in a few weeks in Manhattan (one gal coming over from England for the weekend).

I follow your posts and enjoy them very much. You are a very brave and lovely lady. I do hope some day you get to try either PG or QG. If not, I do believe ithat f you are aboard with Paul and his wife (PB82) he will share a lovely time with you in the Grills Lounge.

I have never booked QG alone on QM2, but I did on QE2 about two years before she retired. I chose a table for one, and it was delightful. There were tables for four on either side of me, and -- after a moment or two -- got to know the tables on the right and left. The tables were nicely spaced, but not that far apart, and basically it became a nice tablefor nine. I was left alone when I wanted to be, but the people on either were lovely, and we chatted a little each evening. The waiters were very solicitious, and I was perfectly comfortable the entire time.

In short, I had no problem being at a table for one, in fact enjoyed it very much, and would probably book the same way were I travellling alone again.

Are PG passengers allowed to use the Grills lounge & deck? Also, is bottled water complimentary in PG?

Oh... and another question, can you request a table for two in PG?

Are PG passengers allowed to use the Grills lounge & deck? Also, is bottled water complimentary in PG?   Oh... and another question, can you request a table for two in PG?

Based on our QM2 experience the answers are yes, yes, I don't know, and yes.

• 1 month later...

:oThe Princess Grill does not have complimentary beverages as does the Queens Grill. Also Caviar is free(nightly, if you wish)in Queens Grill, but only for 1 night in Princess. I believe they are doing away with Russian Caviar & switching to American(which is actually quite good).

You can go off menu in Princess, but you may get charged a fee. This last part surprises me, as the brochure says feel free to ask the staff to "prepare a meal just for you" In Princess they will, but you may get charged for it. I do wish they would bring back the mid morning "Bouillon service" at least in the Grills. I've never had it, but feel it would really harken back to the good old days.I do plan on asking for it on our Nov.27th cruise.The afternoon tea is better in the Grills,as there is a tea "menu' you can choose from.We are doing a Q6(or better)on our Nov. trip.

I've met people who prefer the Princess Grill. They say it's more intimate

than Queens Grill. We will find this out later this year. Hope to see some of you there. Look for us at the "FOD" meetings in the Commodore Club.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Everything I Ate on a Cunard Cruise (Pub, Dining Rooms and More)

If you are taking a cruise with Cunard, you may be wondering what the food will be like. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and afternoon tea are all included at no extra cost on a Cunard cruise.

I’ve just disembarked a cruise on the Queen Mary 2 and in this post we will look at everything I ate in the main dining room, buffet, pub and on-room service. Menus are also provided.

Cunard are generally regarded as having a high quality of food. They cater well to passengers with intolerances and dietary preferences.

Pub Lunch – The Golden Lion

• Beer Battered Atlantic Cod (Chips, Minted Mushy Peas and Tartare Sauce)
• Chicken Tikka Masala (Sarfron and Cardamom Basmati Rice, Onion Bhaji and Nann Bread)
• 6oz 28 Day Aged Prime Angus Beef Burger With Crispy Pulled Brisket (Smoked Applewood, Stilton Slaw, Beer Ketchup, Dill Pickle and Fries)
• The Golden Lion Ploughman’s (York Gammon Ham, Mature Cheddar Cheese, Duck Mousse with Madeira, Pickled Onions, Vegetable Crudities, Branston Pickle and Artisan Bread)
• Cauliflower, Leek and Truffle Pie

On embarkation day we headed to the pub for lunch. The pub is an informal venue where guests are able to eat at any time that food is being served.

The menu is small but all of the food was very good.

I had a cauliflower pie and my brother had fish and chips. The food came quickly, was nice and hot. The portions were of a good size and I’d recommend a pub meal to anybody cruising with Cunard.

They also bought us crisps and nuts when we were having a drink in the pub which was much appreciated! Make sure you request these if you are feeling peckish.

Main Dining Room – Britannia Restaurant

When cruising with Cunard you will be able to select early or late seating, we selected early and were given a table for 4 at 6 pm each night.

There are no fixed dining times for breakfast or lunch. Guests are able to eat in the main dining room whenever it is open for breakfast or lunch.

I had roasted vegetables, baby vegetables, and vanilla cheesecake. To follow the meal we were given little shortbread biscuits and tea which was nice.

The food was all very good and we never had any problems. I will say I felt as though the portions were a little small, but we had just come from afternoon tea so we definitely weren’t leaving hungry!

The great thing about a cruise is that you can order as many things from the menu as you’d like for no extra charge.

For our second dinner in the main dining room I had a cheese tart which was one of my favourite things that I had onboard. It was quite a bit larger than most other starters.

I did find that often the menu wouldn’t mention all of the ingredients in a dish, there was no mention of mushrooms on the menu but the tart came with plenty. This wasn’t an issue for me, but something to be aware of.

The chocolate brownie was very rich but I enjoyed it. I love anything chocolate-related!

I chose the tofu dish and it was my favourite main course of the cruise.

It was Calentine’s day when these photos were taken which I suspect is why the dessert was in a heart shape. It tasted great.

My family members who had the beef wellington said that it was tasty and I have to admit I did eat a couple of the roast potatoes from my brother’s plate (he doesn’t like potatoes!).

Buffet – Valentine’s Day!

During our cruise on Valentine’s day, there were LOTS of sweet treats available. In addition to this I also had breakfast in the buffet but never ate here for dinner or lunch.

There were lots of options available in the buffet and food was served here from early in the morning until late at night.

Technically the buffet did close briefly between meals but we never found a time when the buffet was closed completely.

There were lots of other options in addition to the sweet treats like hot meals, breads and fruit.

The buffet was a fair size and the waiters were very knowledgeable about the ingredients in each dish.

Cunard do also offers a sit-down option in the buffet in the evening.

The buffet is one of the few areas onboard where the formal dress codes don’t apply so this was an alternative for guests wanting a served meal but in a relaxed setting.

To learn more about Cunard’s dress codes, check out this review of my cruise on the QM2:

Room Service – Free of Charge!

I have to admit I was disappointed with the room service options for vegetarians.

When I took my first Cunard cruise in 2016 the room service was one of the highlights of the trip for me but on this cruise, there was only one vegetarian main which was mac and cheese.

I’d already had mac and cheese for lunch, as that was the only vegetarian option in the Carinthia Lounge. It was great, but I didn’t want it twice in one day!

I ended up with a cheese sandwich, which was okay, but nothing amazing. I suspect the cheese was slices of burger cheese as there was a burger on the menu.

Cunard do offer vegetarian burgers in the buffet, but not on room service.

Room service is also available for breakfast, we ordered it when we were in port and it was brilliant.

The food arrived exactly when we had requested it. To order room service for breakfast you simply fill out a little form and leave it outside your cabin.

My Final Thoughts

I was very impressed with the quality of food on our Cunard cruise. Every meal we ate in the main dining room and the buffet was hot and full of flavour. The pub lunch we had was particularly good as were all of the valentines day treats.

I’d like to see more options for Vegetarians and Vegans onboard but I’m sure that this will come in time.

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Cunard Line Specialty Dining

The following dining options are offered at a surcharge. For dining options that are included with your cruise fare click here .

The Verandah: Make reservations at our exquisite French-inspired restaurant. Cover charge applies.

Queen Mary 2: Lunch Menu – $20 per person – 3 course menu; Dinner Menu – $49.95 per person – 3 course menu

Queen Elizabeth: Lunch menu – $25.00 per person offering 3 course menu; Dinner menu – $35 per person for a 3 course meal

Queen Victoria: Lunch menu – $20 per person offering 3 course menu; Dinner menu – $39 per person offering a 3 course menu.

Alternative dining : Both the Lido Restaurant and Kings Court transform into a unique dining experience where global cuisine can be enjoyed. Choose from one of four alternating intimate venues: delicious Asian cuisine in Lotus, authentic Indian dishes at Coriander, hearty Italian fare at La Piazza, and Smokehouse offers an exciting American-influenced menu. Cover charge applies.

Queen Mary 2:

Aztec (Mexican cuisine) $17.50pp Bamboo (Pan-Asian cuisine) – $17.50pp Coriander (Indian cuisine) – $17.50pp La Piazza (Italian cuisine) – $17.50pp Smokehouse (American cuisine) – $17.50pp

Queen Elizabeth:

Aztec (Mexican) – $17.50pp Bamboo (Pan-Asian cuisine) – $17.50pp Coriander (Indian cuisine) – $17.50pp La Piazza (Italian cuisine) – $17.50pp Smokehouse (American cuisine) – $17.50pp

Queen Victoria:

Evening buffet (non themed) – Complimentary Aztec (Mexican cuisine) $17.50pp Bamboo (Pan-Asian cuisine) – $17.50pp Coriander (Indian cuisine) – $17.50pp La Piazza (Italian cuisine) – $17.50pp Smokehouse (American cuisine) – $17.50pp

Godiva chocolate Afternoon Tea: Available on Queen Mary 2 every sea day, this truly out of the ordinary indulgent treat for two includes two Godiva signature cakes, Godiva white chocolate Key Lime scones served with lime marmalade and clotted cream accompanied by premium Tea Forté tea and Godiva pralines. Cover charge applies.

Please note that dining choices may vary by ship and prices are subject to change so check with your travel agent for details.

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What is the value of the Cunard Cruises Drinks Package?

Enjoy delicious cocktails, superb wines, and refreshing refreshments as you cruise through beautiful places with Cunard Cruises' drinks package.

Book Cunard Cruises

Cruising has become more popular among tourists seeking luxurious experiences and unmatched leisure. Among the many available cruise lines, Cunard Cruises has distinguished itself and is well known for its tradition and first-rate service. One of the things that Cunard provides to enhance the customer experience is the beverage package. To determine the value of the Cunard Cruises’ drinks package , this article will examine its components, cost, benefits, etc.

Understanding the Cunard Cruises’ drinks package

The Cunard Cruises drinks package is designed to offer customers an all-inclusive and convenient way to enjoy a variety of beverages while on board. Cocktails, wines, beers, soft drinks, specialty coffees, and other alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages are commonly offered. This all-inclusive option may appeal to those who want the freedom to indulge without worrying about the expense of individual drinks.

Cunard Cruises Cost considerations

Understanding the pricing structure of the beverage package is critical before estimating its value. The cost of the package varies depending on the length of the voyage, the ship selected, and the kind of stateroom selected. While the drinks package may have additional expenses, it usually has a defined daily price. Travelers must evaluate their unique drinking preferences and routines to determine whether the package suits their budget and expectations.

Cunard Cruises Benefits of the drinks package

• Convenience: One of the key benefits of the beverage package is its convenience. Passengers can purchase their chosen beverages without having to worry about precise costs or collecting a large bill at the end of the cruise.
• Predictable costs: Because the price of the beverages package is known in advance, travelers may plan their cruise budgets more easily. This can help you avoid any unexpected financial issues during or after your vacation.
• Variety: Cunard Cruises takes pride in providing a diverse selection of beverages. With the package, passengers can enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ranging from fine wines to meticulously prepared cocktails.
• Social interaction: The beverages package can promote social interactions by allowing travelers to go out for drinks with friends or fellow passengers without worrying about having different tastes or splitting the bill.
• Special occasions: Passengers celebrating special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries, can add an extra layer of celebration with the drinks package , allowing them to raise a glass to special occasions without restriction.

Drawbacks of the drinks package

• Limited selection: While the drinks package includes a variety of beverages, some fine wines, spirits, and cocktails may be excluded. Passengers with discriminating tastes or specific preferences may have to pay a premium for these expensive options.
• Minimum purchase requirement: In order for the package to be financially feasible, some passengers may feel compelled to consume a certain number of beverages per day, which may lead to overindulgence.
• Non-drinking passengers: If a group includes both drinkers and non-drinkers, purchasing the package for everyone may not make sense, lowering the overall value of the package.
• Port days: When the ship is in port, many guests choose to tour the region rather than remain onboard. This could lead to lesser consumption, making the package less valuable on those days.

Determining value: Key factors

• Frequency of consumption: Travelers who expect to consume multiple beverages per day are more likely to appreciate the value of the bundle because it saves them a considerable total cost.
• Beverage preferences: Value is arbitrary and depends on personal preferences. People who love a wide range of beverages and are open to new experiences are more likely to take advantage of the package.
• Onboard time: Because more time onboard allows for more consumption, the package's value is directly proportional to the amount of time passengers spend aboard the ship.
• Premium selection: Those interested in high-end or premium beverages should check to see if their preferred selections are included in the bundle or if they will have to pay extra.

Also Read:  What are the Things to Know when Buying a Cruise Drink Package?

Final words

Book a Cunard Cruises through www.CruiseBooking.com and get a beverage package's convenience with consistent pricing to enhance the cruise experience. Its value varies depending on each person's drinking preferences, habits, and cruise itinerary. Passengers should carefully assess their preferences and weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks to determine whether the drinks package matches their expectations and improves their holiday experience.

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21 Hidden Costs of Cruising – How Much Does a Cruise Really Cost?

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Extra Expenses on a Cruise that Are Often Overlooked

Cruises are well known for being a great value. However, unless you’re cruising with a luxury line, cruise vacations aren’t all-inclusive. This means that there will be some surprise or even some extra “hidden costs” of cruising.

These fees and extra expenses, can greatly affect how much your cruise will cost. Beyond a flight to get to your cruise ship, things like port fees, taxes, gratuities, excursions, beverages and even some onboard activities can add up quickly.

There’s nothing worse than getting a HUGE unexpected bill at the end of your cruise, as you’re almost ready to disembark . We’ve been with friends when this happened, and it wasn’t pretty!

In this post, I’ll share both common and lesser known extra expenses on a cruise. This way, you’ll avoid nasty surprises that will blow your cruise budget!

Let’s start briefly with how much a cruise costs and what’s included in the cruise fare.

How Much Does an Average Cruise Cost?

The base cost of a cruise can vary based on:

• Cruise line and cruise ship (newer ships cost more)
• Season (shoulder season is cheapest)
• Cabin type ( inside is cheapest)
• How many people are in your cabin
• If you have “perks” included – a newer option for cruisers available on some cruise lines
• Past passenger status and special rates

Even though according to cruise industry market reports , the average cost of a cruise is approximately $160 USD per person/per day for cruise fare or ticket price, the above factors can bring the fare down or up.

We’ve seen costs of repositioning cruises for as low as $50 a day, while an Alaskan cruise may average $200 a day. Caribbean cruises tend to have the most variety and affordable options, with many cruises selling for $70-$100 a day.

The advertised pricing will always be for the least expensive cabin available, usually an interior stateroom. 

As you can see, there are many factors that determine the price of a cruise, even before we add on flights and any extra expenses.

Hidden Costs and Extra Charges on Cruises 

What else, on top of cruise fare and flights, can you expect to add on to the total price of a cruise?

Rather than simply listing the extra expenses to be aware of, I’ll include a few tips and tricks that can be helpful if you do want to save in a few places.

Most of the time, the taxes on your cruise will be hidden and not seen at first look. Always check the fine print in the advertisements from cruise lines including Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean or your favorite brand.

You may need to go all the way through the booking to find the taxes at the end!

The same thing will often apply to large online travel websites and agencies, so when comparing prices, do make sure all taxes are inluded.

2. Port fees

For the last several year, the port fees are included in your cruise fare. For this reason, I don’t consider this to be a hidden fee of cruising. Although you certainly are paying them, they aren’t optional and there’s no way to get around it.

Unless you have a promotion or book as a package, your flights will be extra. You may want to check out cruise line air options, which have greatly improved over the last couple of years.

4. Pre or Post Cruise Hotel Stays

Don’t forget to budget for a hotel stay before your cruise , or even after. It can cost about $200 a night or more for a one night hotel stay in a major city, so this adds to the cost of your cruise. 

Whether you cruise out of South Florida and want to stay and visit Miami , or you want to visit Rome before your Mediterranean cruise , it’s worth it!

To reduce the cost of hotels, consider using hotel aggregator or discount websites like Priceline and Hotwire. For longer stays, consider an AirBnb for great values.

5. Ship transfers or taxis

The cost of a transfer or taxi from your airport or hotel to the cruise port will vary depending on the distance from the cruise port.

Pro Tip: When booking a hotel, see if they offer a free or inexpensive shuttle to the cruise port.

6. Gratuities for the ship’s crew

All major cruise lines will charge a daily gratuity fee or service charge to your stateroom account. Although this can vary slightly, most cruise lines have set the daily gratuity to between $13-20 USD per person/per day, depending on your cabin class.

While most cruise lines allow you to request a removal of gratuities, this isn’t recommended. You’ll see how the crew work really hard cleaning and making up your cabin twice a day, serving you in the dining room, buffet and poolside grills.

If you do have a complaint on a cruise about the service, it’s best to bring it to the attention of guest services so it can be rectified during your vacation.

Pro Tip: You may want to prepay your gratuities so you don’t have to think about this once on your cruise. Read more about Tipping HERE .

7. Shore excursions

When you get to each cruise port, you’ll want to budget some money for ship excursions or local guides and tours.

Shore excursions can be pricey, however it’s always a good idea to research and compare ahead of time. You can also decide which cruise port requires an organized excursion, and where you can easily hop on a cab to a beach or walk around the town.

On a Caribbean cruise, shore excursions are typically about $50-100 per person. 

Many beverages are additional on a cruise

8. alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and water bottles.

This is where the expenses on a cruise can really add up. Cocktails and other alcoholic drinks cost about $10-14 each.

Soft drinks and even water bottles are extra as well.

However, if you’re wondering what you can drink, there will be juice, fruit drinks and safe “tap” water available. You’ll also be able to have coffee or tea.

If you think this will add up for you, do take a look at the cruise line beverage packages as in some cases, this is the best value and will save you money at the end of the day.

Tip: Check out any promotions or perks where a beverage package is offered. Many cruisers enjoy Norwegian’s Free at Sea , Celebrity ‘s perks promotions, and Princess Cruises “ Princess Plus” option, where a beverage package is included with the cost of the cruise .

9. Specialty coffee and tea

Unless you’re on a luxury cruise, specialty coffee like a cappuccino, latte or Affogato (my favorite at Celebrity’s Cafe Al Bacio ) will have an extra charge.

Specialty coffees range in price from about $3-6 each, however coffee packages are available on most cruise lines and are a pretty good value.

Optional expenses on a cruise vacation

The following expenses are optional, and whether you spend on these “extras” or not really depends on what you’ll enjoy.

That said, cruise lines make a lot of money from cruise passengers who do spend on these things on a cruise. Despite cruise lines”pushing” specialty dining and other “pay to play” activities, there is a lot available and included on a cruise .

Don’t feel pressured to blow your budget – instead first check what is included and available, and pay extra only for what really matters to you.

10. Photos and photo packages

Personally, I find the professional photos reasonable for what you get. After all, when do we go to a photo studio at home?

Photos are about $20 each, while packages may start at about $100 and go up from there.

11. Premium or Specialty dining

The main dining room and buffets are included on your cruise , but if you want a special and more intimate dining experience, check out the specialty restaurants onboard.

The average cost ranges from $25-50 per person, depending on the restaurant and cruise line.

12. Spa treatments

Spa treatments, massages, and hair and nail salon appointments are available. You may even want to have tooth whitening or an anti aging treatment done while on board, at an additional cost of course.

Tip: One way to save on any of these options is to look out for port day discounts .

13. Fitness classes (varies)

The fitness center is included on your cruise, and often there are some free classes as well. However, often yoga, pilates and spinning will have an extra charge of about $10 a class.

14. Wifi or Internet

Cruise ship internet can be much more expensive than on land, so do watch out for this. make sure to put your phone on airplane mode, and purchase an onboard internet package if you’ll need one.

This is getting better than just a few years ago, and internet packages are now faster and less expensive than before.

As an example, Princess Cruises Medallion Net is about $10 a day (or less) for unlimited usage. Do check the terms and conditions and purchase on the first day of your cruise or before.

Do you love Bingo on a sea day? So many cruisers do. If you enjoy this, check out the specials on multi cards.

One of the most popular things to do on a cruise ship is to play the slots and other casino games. This is a personal decision, but of course only budget what you can afford to lose ;-).

17. Meals and drinks in port and pre/post cruise

While your meals and snacks are included on your cruise, you aren’t able to bring food off the ship.

It’s a good idea to keep some cash with you for a light meal or snack, while you’re in a cruise port. You may want to budget $20 to $50 a person depending on the port and your tastes and preferences.

18. Onboard shopping

Shopping on a cruise ship is full of temptations. From duty free liqueur, designer handbags and even higher end jewelry, you might want to do a little “gift” shopping, even for yourself.

Something to note is that on the last sea day, there will often be a “sale” and this can be a good time to pick up some souvenir t-shirts or other items.

Pro tip:   11 Best Duty-Free Shopping Deals on a Cruise Ship

19. Activities on the cruise ship

I saved this to the end, as most entertainment and activities are included on a cruise. This includes Broadway and Vegas style shows, comedians and the kid’s club.

However, on some cruise ships there are some activities that have a nominal fee. As an example, the race track on Norwegian Joy costs $15 per person.

You may also have additional charges for room service and for child care services after 10 pm. Please verify details for your specific ship and cruise line.

Pro Tip:   27 Best Tips – How to Save Money on a Cruise

20. Travel insurance

Travel insurance for a cruise might be “optional”, but it shouldn’t be. The fact is, if you need medical care including air lifting from the cruise ship or hospitalization, the costs can be astronomical. Please look into travel insurance or speak with your travel advisor for the best options for you.

21. Cruise outfits, luggage and cruise essentials

While not a direct cruise expense, I’ve found that we tend to spend some (lots of) money “getting ready” for our cruises. If you have a cruise planned, try picking up a few outfits in the months ahead as you see them.

It’s also a good idea to have a good light set of luggage and some cruise travel accessories. You can also buy these as you go, and of course only buy the “essentials” you’d actually use.

Here’s a list of 25 popular cruise items recommended by cruisers , that you may want to read and save (to your favorite Pinterest board).

  25+ Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise

How to Pack Light for a Cruise

You may also enjoy:

  27 Cruise Travel Hacks Repeat Cruisers Swear By

Final thoughts: 21 Hidden Costs of Cruising – How Much Does a Cruise Really Cost?

Even though cruising is still a great value, knowing what extra costs to expect and plan for will avoid surprises. By researching in advance, you’ll be able to budget for your cruise ports, as well as what extra expenses you’d enjoy on the cruise ship.

A final tip is to make sure that you’re signed up to receive your cruise line’s emails. Often, beverage packages, shore excursions and other cruise purchases will be discounted if you buy them online before your cruise.

I hope these tips and the information is helpful as you plan and get ready for your cruise.

What other “extras” have you encountered on cruise ships or while planning your cruise? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you’ve enjoyed this, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-)! Please share it on Facebook or save for later on Pinterest. Thanks so much!

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Cunard Laundry Prices and Laundrette Services (Updated September 2023)

We did a transatlantic cruise on the Queen Mary 2 in August 2023, most if not all cruise lines offer a laundry service, in the post we outline exactly what it will cost and how long it will take to get your laundry taken care of on a Cunard cruise ship.

If you prefer to take care of your own laundry Cunard also have self service laundrettes on board too. These all have washing machines, dryers, ironing boards and irons and they also provide complimentary detergent too.

We also have laundry prices for the following cruise lines, Marella , Celebrity , Virgin Voyages , P&O and Princess  so you can find out how these cruise line laundry prices compare.

Regular service includes laundry that will be picked up before 10.00 am, returned by 7.00 pm the following day.

Same day service add 50% express service surcharge, picked up by 9.00 am returned by 7.00 pm the same day.

WASH AND PRESS.

Formal Shirt – $7.50

T-Shirt/Polo Shirt – $5.00

Casual Trousers/Jeans – $6.50

Casual Dress – $8.00

Shorts – $6.00

Skirt – $6.00

Accessories – $3.00

Swimwear – $4.50

Undergarment – $3.00

Nightwear – $8.00

Sportswear – $5.00

Bag of 15 Items, excluding specialist Cleaning items – $52.00

SPECIALIST CLEANING.

Specialist cleaning is a wet clean using a small amount of water rather than solvents and is not suitable for raw silks.

Suit Jacket – $9.00

Smart Trousers – $9.00

Waist Coat – $5.00

Formal Shirt – $9.00

Tie/Cummerbund – $3.00

Formal Evening Dress – $20.00

Formal Jumpsuit – $17.00

Formal Skirt – $9.00

Formal Top – $6.50

Casual Dress – $10.00

Knitwear – $9.00

Outdoor Jacket/Coat – $18.00

PRESS ONLY.

Suit Jacket – $6.50

Smart Trousers – $6.50

Waist Coat – $3.50

Formal Shirt – $6.50

Tie/Cummerbund – $2.50

Formal Evening Dress – $15.50

Formal Jumpsuit – $11.00

Formal Skirt – $6.50

Formal Top – $4.00

Casual Trousers/Jeans – $5.00

Casual Dress – $5.00

Skirt – $5.00

Visit our Cunard Page for more information including Spa Prices, Cabin and Cunard Cruise Ship Reviews

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Planning a land based holiday, flights, bucket list trip, cruise or honeymoon then we recommend using Dan Hammond of GoCruise&Travel who you can be contacted here by email – [email protected] and telephone 01622 891895 and via their  website here.

He has found us some great deals and using a travel agent takes all the anxiety away of booking and coordinating complicated itineraries.

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Related blogs, hotel review – riu costa lago hotel, torremolinos, spain.

Celebrity Cruises Laundry Prices

Marella Repositioning Cruises

All-inclusive resort or cruise – which is best?

“Club Tropicana, drinks are free… Fun and sunshine, there’s enough for everyone,” so sang George Michael in Wham!’s famous 1980s paean to the nascent all-inclusive. In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, ‘free’ booze and no bill sounded and looked – if you were anywhere near a pool in Ibiza with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley – like holiday utopia. 

Drinks weren’t really free, but the idea that you could pay up-front to eat and imbibe, and be assured that you wouldn’t be presented with a terrifying bill at the end, was a novel concept, particularly for budget-conscious families and sun-seeking partygoers. 

It still offers considerable appeal in our cash-strapped times, which may explain why all-inclusives have had something of a renaissance. Cruising offers similar peace of mind and plenty to do with kids clubs, waterslides and Disney princesses on board – though alcohol isn’t always free. During both types of holiday, the entertainment comes to you and you’ll never have to flinch at the prices on the menu. 

But which type of holiday is best? Our writer put them both to the test.

Destination

Children’s clubs, food and drink.

• Hidden costs 

All-inclusive

Club Med founders Gilbert Trigano and Gérard Blitz, who dreamt up the all-inclusive concept in the 1950s, had beaches and sunshine in mind. But skiers also favoured the all-in pricing model. Europe’s slopes were a win-win for the brand, which opened its first Alpine village at Leysin in Switzerland in 1956 ( clubmed.co.uk ).

Traditional sunshine strongholds Mexico and the Caribbean – where Butch Stewart picked up the mantel with his Sandals brand – still account for a big slice of the all-inclusive pie, but the net has spread further to include Cuba, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Montenegro, Cape Verde and the Azores. Further afield there are all-inclusive resorts in Kenya, Thailand (mostly Phuket) and the Maldives and Mauritius. Turkish-owned Rixos ( rixos.com ) has recently opened resorts in Qatar and Doha, while Tui ( tui.co.uk ) and First Choice ( firstchoice.co.uk ) offer several resorts in Costa Rica. 

Cruise 

An average week or 10-day ocean cruise can tick-off several different destinations in one country, or across several countries in one trip. If you have a bit longer, it can take you round the world. Three-month world cruise itineraries cross continents, sail several seas and oceans, visit scores of capital cities and offer hundreds of excursion opportunities. 

And let’s not forget off-grid but accessible by water destinations such as the Galapagos, the Pitcairn Islands and Antarctica. River cruises follow the course of most navigable rivers, from the Amazon to the Zambezi. The Mekong, the Mississippi and the Ganges are among their more adventurous destinations. 

Whether beach or mountain-based, most all-inclusive resorts feature an activities element. Sandals comes up trumps, with free scuba at its Caribbean dive resorts and multiple rounds of golf and green fees at top courses in Jamaica, St Lucia and the Bahamas. 

Meanwhile, guests at Rixos resorts in Turkey have free daily access to The Land of the Legends Theme Park in Antalya – which means big savings in peak periods. This Easter, there are also egg hunts as well as giant egg-painting: a week at Premium Tekirova costs from £2,390 for four adults and two children, departing on March 30.

Watersports not your bag? Ikos Oceania in Halkidiki can provide a Tesla Model 3 at no extra cost for one day’s exploration as well as a culture pass to local museums. At Ikos resorts ( ikosresorts.com ), spa access is free between 8am to 8pm. 

If you’re after more than a typical beach holiday, check the activities part of a hotel website to find out what’s included. The adults-only Sanctuary Cap Cana ( sanctuarycapcana.com ) in the Dominican Republic offers Spanish classes and, at the House of Aia on Mexico’s Riviera Maya ( thehouseofaia.com ), a ‘personal growth’ programme includes 20 classes, ceremonies and rituals from visiting guides.

If you have adventurous teens in tow, the US offers some interesting options. At the historic Castle Hot Springs in Arizona ( castlehotsprings.com ) there’s axe-throwing, cruiser bikes, geothermal hot springs and creekside hammocks for lazing in, while, further north in scenic Wyoming, Scott Dunn has stays at Brush Creek Ranch, set in 30,000 acres of sage-bush prairie where you can ride, fish or take to the landscape by ATV ( scottdunn.com ).

With distractions ranging from rock-climbing walls and ropes courses to simulated surfing, via encounters with Star Wars, Marvel and Disney Pixar characters, cruising sets a high bar for activities. And on land, there are excursions – sometimes included – for every type of passenger. 

It’s not just families who benefit. Swan Hellenic ( swanhellenic.com ) has teamed up with Deepak Chopra to offer wellbeing voyages, while adult-only ships offer films under the stars or in theatres, lectures from wildlife experts and historians, opportunities for citizen science, celebrity speakers, casinos and activities ranging from dance lessons to art and photography classes. Virgin ( virginvoyages.com ) also puts on DJ sets and pool and dance parties. And let’s not forget the main event – a new place to explore every day.

Newer resorts have really lifted the bar. At its properties along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Rixos rolls out the red carpet for families with a Rixy Kids Club that has cooking and pottery lessons as well as football and dance academies. At Rixos Sungate, where the kids’ club is set around a splash park in a forest, children can learn to code using Lego robotics.

At Ikos Resorts’ collection of luxury properties in Spain and Greece, kids’ clubs are run in line with UK Ofsted standards. Meanwhile, Tui’s family-friendly resorts come with kids’ clubs and a seven-day line-up of activities including creative sessions. Mini Club Med offers trapeze lessons, introductory water-skiing, horse-riding, cooking classes, games and nature discovery activities. For older kids (11-17), there’s film design, DJ sessions and dedicated areas in which to hang out. 

If you’re travelling with very small children or have ambitious activities in mind, check the small print: like lots of childcare for babies and toddlers, Petit Club Med and Baby Club Med both cost extra. Motorised water sports often incur a fee at all-inclusives while some resorts impose limits on the number of windsurfing or other tutored lessons.

Cruise ships do a stellar job when it comes to children’s clubs, with all ages well catered for. Most resort ships divide clubs into four age groups and some, including P&O Cruises ( pocruises.com ), offer free babysitting. Royal Caribbean ( royalcaribbean.com ) has an adventure science lab for budding junior scientists as well as baby and tots programmes for those aged six to 36 months. Celebrity Cruises has a STEM at Sea partnership with The Frost Science Museum (Equinox and Edge-class ships; celebritycruises.com ).

P&O Cruises is particularly well set up for those with kids in tow, with round-the-clock children’s clubs on its family-friendly ships and family-oriented shore excursions. MSC Cruises ( msccruises.co.uk ) has baby, mini, junior, young and teen clubs. The latter offers Xbox and PS4 tournaments, a Drone Academy, flash mobs and dance offs. Disney Dream ( disneycruise.disney.go.com ) has some imaginative offerings too, including the Jedi Training Academy and the opportunity to hang out with characters from the Toy Story trilogy.

You get what you pay for. If that’s sun and sea and a good four-star family resort, expect two or three bars and a standard buffet: a week at the Iberostar Bellevue in Montenegro costs £1,562 in mid-May ( iberostar.com ). Pay a bit more and you’ll be rewarded with more imaginative menus. At Ikos Porto Petro in Majorca, five à la carte restaurants serve meals inspired by Michelin-starred chefs (from £2,470pp with Sovereign; sovereign.com ).

Ikos also has curated “dine out” programmes that encourage guests to eat at local restaurants – including a rustic tapas joint in Estepona, an agriturismo in Ibiza and a buzzy beachfront spot in Marbella. Sandals ( sandals.co.uk ) has similar in Curaçao and Nassau. Caribbean all-inclusives generally offer three or four restaurants – and maybe a pop-up beach venue or barbecue night.

Think cruise, think buffet, right? Wrong. Standards are high, with new ships offering a plethora of cuisines, dining styles and venues along with healthy options and dietary alternatives. You’re as likely to find vegan muffins and bee-pollen at the breakfast buffet as a Full English. 

Silversea and Virgin have ditched the buffet altogether. Partnerships with chefs including Marco Pierre White and Eric Lanlard (P&O Cruises), Relais & Chateau (Silversea; silversea.com ), Jacques Pepin (Holland America Line; hollandamerica.com ) and Thomas Keller (Seabourn; seabourn.com ) have also made a difference. Crystal ( crystalcruises.com ) has a Japanese restaurant masterminded by Nobu while wine presenter Olly Smith helms the Glasshouse on some P&O ships. 

Silversea, Holland America Line and Oceania ( oceaniacruises.com ) are highly regarded among foodies and Regent Seven Seas ( rssc.com ) offers some stylish settings while Celebrity’s newer ships have roof-top gardens and over-the-sea dining. Fine dining can cost extra, depending on the ship, but expect to pay around £15 on top for three courses, which might just include one of the finest steaks you’ll ever eat. 

All-inclusive 

It’s a broad-brush summation but for something established, refined and ‘old-school’ romantic – think castaway beaches, palm fronds gently buffeted by warm trade winds, knock-out views and honeymoon havens – the Caribbean is a safe bet. The likes of Jumby Bay ( oetkercollection.com ), Spice Island Resort ( spiceislandbeachresort.com ), Necker ( virginlimitededition.com ) and Curtain Bluff ( curtainbluff.com ) are famous for a reason. 

The Maldives attracts a discerning international clientele while, in Europe, there are affordable package resorts where screaming kids are well tolerated. At the stylish new kids on the block (think Ikos and Grecotel Luxme; grecotel.com ), Poppy and Miles only scream in the privacy of the rooms however. 

Skiers are too busy skiing, too knackered or too busy partying to care about trifles like the vibe. If in doubt opt for Club Med, where most people speak French. 

It varies enormously across ships. River ships are tranquil, geared to sightseeing and generally follow an up-early and early-to-bed routine. Large resort ships can feel like theme parks, with entertainment into the wee hours; smaller ships go out of their way to leave passengers alone and provide impressive libraries and spaces for quiet contemplation. Viking ( vikingcruises.co.uk ), Silversea and Seabourn excel at this. Then there are the tall ships such as Sea Cloud ( seacloud.com ) and those in the Star Clipper fleet ( starclippercruises.co.uk ), where you’ll spend most of your time on deck watching the wind make the sails dance. 

Some liners take a ship-within-a-ship approach, with exclusive areas, pools and services – at a cost. MSC has the Yacht Club while Norwegian Cruise Line ( ncl.com ), Royal Caribbean and P&O have premium areas with pools and separate menus. Cunard ( cunard.com ) has the Grills Suites. 

If you’re after a more intimate, house-party atmosphere (complete with Surrey types, ex-boat owners and ‘non-cruisers’), opt for a yacht-style cruise ship from Ponant ( uk.ponant.com ), SeaDream ( seadream.com ), Scenic Eclipse ( scenic.co.uk ) or one of a handful of Windstar ships ( windstarcruises.com ).

Hidden costs All-inclusive

Do question the headline price, especially if booking via a third party. In January 2024, a Which? survey of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed key omissions from some operators, including soft drinks. Those who booked with the cheapest provider, lastminute.com , were forking out an extra £367 per week on average for extras. 

Operators take different approaches to inclusions. BA Holidays says: “Expect your holiday to include flights and accommodation, all three meals and snacks in between. Drinks are included too but expect house wine and local spirits unless otherwise stated.” EasyJet’s small print states: “What’s included in the all-inclusive package varies vastly between hotels. When booking your holiday be sure to look at the board description.”

Premium restaurants often cost more, but at the Oaks IBN Battuta in Dubai for example (where a week costs from £989pp through loveholidays.com ) the price includes à la carte restaurants and in-room breakfast. In all cases the two-clicks-away small print was clear. Read it. If in doubt, use the chat function, talk to a travel agent or pick up the phone.

All cruises include accommodation, dining, entertainment and access to pools and the other fun facilities, but Wi-Fi, drinks – alcohol and soda – and tips and room service might not be included. Tips are automatically added to cruise bills on a per passenger, per day basis. Expect to pay for service on spa and beauty treatments and bar drinks.

If you plan on drinking every day, pay for a drinks package (there are alcohol-free packages, too). Celebrity Cruises alcoholic drinks packages start at around £55 per day and Cunard’s soft drinks package starts from around £8.50 per day. Princess Cruises’ Wi-Fi, tips and drinks bundle costs £50pp per day ( princess.com ). 

Though you’ll still pay extra to tip for beauty services, some truly all-inclusive lines also include Wi-Fi, limitless premium drinks, a free mini-bar, most service fees and some excursions. Some also include airfares and a pre- or post-cruise hotel night. Take a look at Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Viking, Crystal and Seabourn. 

Which wins?

The all-inclusive concept has evolved – there’s no room for holiday snobbery in 2024. If all you want is a hassle-free place to relax by a pool or on the beach and forget about daily expenses, this is as good as it gets. But if you intend to stay longer than a week or haven’t been to the destination before, do some research. You may tire of the same sand, sun loungers and restaurants while venturing out to drink and dine makes little financial sense.

If you’ve a thirst for new places, a cruise offers all of the above plus the bonus of a new port of call most days – without the need to unpack. You’ll never get bored of the changing views and, as for feeling claustrophobic, you can disembark every day (though you don’t have to). Plenty of ships overnight in port, so you can dine ashore too. 

Cruises score bonus points for once-in-a-lifetime experiences too. Unless you own a boat, how else do you experience the romance of a dawn arrival in Manhattan, a sunset sail out of Sydney or your first glimpse of porpoising penguins in the Galapagos?

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