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How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

The average cost of a cruise varies by ship, destination, trip length and more. Use this guide to learn more about cruise costs.

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A cruise can be an affordable and fun vacation option – just make sure you understand all the variables that add up to a cruise's total cost.

With the rising cost of everything, including travel, cruise fares – some as low as $26 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

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

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $171 per person for a four-night Bahamas cruise to up to $94,999 per person for a 154-night world cruise and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November costs approximately $424 to $1,158 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May costs approximately $244 to $1,632 per person.
• A seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise in June costs approximately $439 to $3,218 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise in January costs approximately $529 to $695 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October costs approximately $470 to $954 per person.

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

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

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

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

Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

If you splurge on a suite or a higher room category, such as Celebrity's Concierge Class, you'll get perks like priority embarkation, a Welcome Aboard Concierge Class Lunch, complimentary sparkling wine and daily tastings (upon request), concierge service, invitations to exclusive destination seminars, pillow selection and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also have priority check-in and boarding, complimentary Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge, and other perks.

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

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

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

What factors determine pricing?

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

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

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships. You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slides on a new ship like Norwegian Prima or its new sister ship, Norwegian Viva, set to debut in summer 2023.

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

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

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone , you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo cabins.

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

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

Read: The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Kids cruise free promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for the kids on select sailings. Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages whose regular fares are around $6,000 and up. This fare also includes unlimited shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Food and beverage packages are another expense to consider

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

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship. For an example of the savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 to $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $75 or more for dinner. Other venues feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these may not include gratuity, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price. Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive. Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a call brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

Other lines have packages that cover top-shelf beverages of up to $20 each and include wine, large bottles of water and soda, and other perks. You'll need to budget around $85 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer.

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers a "Have It All" package that encompasses a shore excursion credit, a signature beverage package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and Wi-Fi. If you're sailing on longer cruises of 10 to 21 days or more, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

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

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship – such as Norwegian's racetrack and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT. See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

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

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more starting at $12.75 per day per person. The cost increases to $17 per day per person with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan starts at $18.70 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "Always Included" fare includes basic internet, a classic drink package and gratuities. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

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

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

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars.

If these types of experiences are not in your budget, then look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These excursions are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Most of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

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

Transportation

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

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

Souvenirs or forgotten items

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

Cruise pricing checklist

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

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Beverage package
• Optional activities
• Miscellaneous expenses
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

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

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

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

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

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

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

Read:  The Best Adults-Only Cruises

All-inclusive cruises

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

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

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

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

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

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

For a seven-night cruise in the Baltic region in June with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive fare with suite accommodations is $12,540 ($6,270 per person). There are also additional perks available, depending on where you book the cruise. Some of the extras include a cash-back offer, a two-category upgrade and shipboard credit.

Silversea has a similar itinerary in June, and the fare also comes with added perks for $13,860 for two people ($6,930 per person) in suite accommodations.

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

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own.

Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Snake and Columbia rivers, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
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• The Best Cruise Lines
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• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Find the best cruise vacation for you

How can i find a cheap cruise.

Cheap cruise deals are fairly easy to find in most cases, and you can begin by considering what kind of features and itinerary you want. The more simplistic the experience is, the cheaper it is in general. On Expedia.com, you can filter for specific features and sort your results by price. By mixing and matching certain features, unforgettable experiences may be available with discount cruises. For example, booking a cruise with stunning restaurants and live performances while opting for an inside cabin without an ocean view window or balcony could be ideal for a traveler who doesn't plan on spending much time in their cabin anyways

What is the cheapest month to take a cruise?

The cheapest month to take a cruise varies based on your destination and the cruise line company that runs the ship. A Caribbean cruise , for example, is generally cheapest in the late summer and early fall since it's the local hurricane season.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel, but there may be fees for canceling depending on how far in advance you cancel and what kind of booking you have. You can check the specific cruise lines’ cancellation policies in your itinerary on Expedia.com.

Are river cruises worth the money?

River cruises are quite relaxing, with much more varied scenery than you'd experience on an ocean cruise. These ships often also feature several stops along the river, so passengers can enjoy a greater variety of destinations to explore. Viking river cruises are especially adept at providing this unforgettable experience.

What cruises are best for families?

The best family cruises in 2024 / 2025 tend to be Disney cruises with plenty of offerings for kids and adults alike, though MSC cruises are known for their iconic Children Cruise Free promotion. Disney cruises, specifically, are essentially a Disney theme park on a boat with live shows, rides, and attractions with your kids' favorite characters.

How much does a cruise ship cost?

Cruise prices can vary quite a bit, with cheap cruises and especially luxurious all-inclusive cruises available. Budget lines can offer cruise tickets as low as $50 per night in some cases, while the more high-end experiences can reach up to $1,000 per night and more.

What are some of the best cruise lines?

Several different cruise lines have a lot to offer, such as Viking cruises , which are known for traversing oceans and rivers with a style that blends outdoor and indoor splendor. Celebrity cruise line is more upscale with luxurious features like WiFi, included beverages, champagne, and suites with panoramic views. Other top cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise , Disney Cruise , and Norwegian Cruise .

How far in advance do you need to book a cruise?

It's generally best to book a cruise about 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure. That's the safest way to balance availability and affordability. Technically, you can book earlier or later than that, with some last-minute cruise deals occasionally available up to a weekbefore cruise departure.

Are cruise trips affordable?

They can be, and it's especially simple to search for more affordable cruises with Expedia.com. Not only can you filter by cruise length, cruise line, and cabin experience, but you may also sort your results by price to put the more affordable options first on your search results page.

What is it like to go on a cruise?

A cruise is generally designed to offer the most relaxing experience possible. Despite the size of the ship, it's possible to feel the wave. Many passengers report that the movements help them sleep. Additionally, many fun cruises offer live stage performances, several restaurants, and shopping opportunities. When the ship is in international waters, you may even be able to enjoy a bit of tax-free shopping.

Are cruises a good way to travel?

Cruise travel is great if you're looking for some varied fun. Compared to a plane or a train, cruises have their own attractions and can be considered an integral part of cruise vacations. Plus, a cruise can hit several different destinations as well, with plenty of time to enjoy the cruise and scenic locales. It's certainly worth it for a unique experience no other method of travel can match.

Which cruise line is the cheapest?

The actual cheapest cruise available depends on a variety of different factors. Still, Carnival Cruise tends to be very affordable overall, most of the time with great options like the Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Horizon . Royal Caribbean is also another fantastic cruise line offering great deals if you are watching your budget.

How can I get the best cruise deals in 2024 / 2025?

If you're looking for some of the best cruise deals, booking through Expedia.com makes it easy since you can sort your cruise search results by price and have access to special deals. One Key members can earn  OneKeyCash  on all eligible bookings and get instant discounts with Member Prices. Sign up today!

What do I need to know when I book a cruise?

To book a cruise, you'll need to know where you'll be setting off from and where you'll be going, in addition to how many people will be with you and the features of the specific cruise you book. Keep in mind that you'll want to factor in spending money in your budget for the cruise's restaurants and shops in most cases.

Where should I go on a cruise in 2024 / 2025?

Plenty of incredible cruise destinations are accessible such as cruises to the Bahamas and cruises to Mexico . You may also be interested in cruises to Alaska or cruises to Europe for something outside of the Caribbean.

What countries are best to visit by cruise ship?

A lot of countries are accessible via a cruise, but the best include a cruise to Australia . However, a cruise to Australia is quite a long trip at sea and really allows you to take in everything the cruise ship has to offer.

Can I get last-minute cruise deals?

Yes, last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can find them on Expedia.com by inputting your travel dates in your search and sorting your results by price. The deals will automatically be applied to the price estimates so that the cheapest estimates will show up first on your search results page.

Are cruises all-inclusive?

Cruises aren't always all-inclusive, but they can be. If you're interested in all-inclusive cruises, you can activate a search filter for it to ensure your search results only show cruises that meet your all-inclusive standard.

Is food free on a cruise?

Food is sometimes free on a cruise, but there are often specialty restaurants that aren't included with the general booking that you'll have to pay for separately. Check the details of each cruise before you book in the "What's included" section after clicking the cruise on your search results page.

What cruise lines are adults only?

Several lines offer adults-only cruise experiences, including Viking cruises , Carnival cruises , and Princess cruises . With an adults-only cruise, you can relax in a tranquil and laid-back setting without kids running around and enjoy all the cocktails you want.

What cruise lines are considered to be the most luxurious?

Viking cruises are considered exceptionally luxurious, with smaller ships and larger cabins that make them feel more exclusive, but Celebrity cruises offer luxury cruise lines too. Booking a luxury cruise means you can expect high-end amenities including gourmet restaurants, sizable suites, top-tier performances, massive pools, and much more.

What are the best cruises for couples?

Viking Cruises have much to offer for a more romantic experience. Holland America Line cruises can be quite refined and romantic as well, with an adult-oriented experience that's sophisticated rather than rowdy. Romantic cruises offer exceptional service as well as cozy suites for you and your partner to enjoy that's complemented by delicious food often themed around the cruise destination.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

Going on a cruise is a great way for you and your new spouse to be pampered with luxury while also being able to explore a new destination. Whether you're taking a cruise to Hawaii or a cruise to Bermuda , a particularly romantic experience is almost guaranteed thanks to the sheer number of things to do.

Are there any Christmas cruises?

Yes, quite a few cruise lines operate around Christmas, and you can find them easily by entering travel dates around Christmas into your 2024 cruise search. Some of the most popular Christmas cruises are available with Carnival and Disney.

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

Whether or not you need a passport depends on where you're going and the kind of cruise it is. Any US territory like Bermuda and Puerto Rico won't require a passport, of course, but you also don't need one if you're on a closed-loop cruise. This is a cruise that begins and ends at a US cruise terminal, even if there are stops in other countries on the way.

Why should I book a cruise with Expedia.com?

Booking a cruise with Expedia.com makes it easy to find a cruise type that works best for you. You can use the cruise finder and sort by cruise line, type, destination, length, and itinerary. One Key members also earn OneKeyCash on all eligible bookings that can be used to save on future eligible trips.

What happens if a cruise is canceled?

Every cruise has a different cancellation policy, but generally, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or a credit for a future cruise at a later date. Remember that they may automatically change your booking to their rescheduled date, so you may have to contact them if that date doesn't work for your schedule.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

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Cruise Cost Calculator: See How Much Your Trip Will Cost

One of the big draws with cruising? It can be an affordable vacation that allows you to travel to distant ports, eat world-class food, and enjoy loads of entertainment for drastically less than you’d pay if you booked all these items separately.

But truth be told, the costs of cruising can add up quickly. Between getting to the port to excursions to the actual cruise itself, the costs can add up, making budgeting more difficult.

To help you out, we’ve created a cruise cost calculator. The calculator below offers a chance to estimate your expenses for your trip, with all the major spending areas you’ll find a cruise. Simply input details about your trip and see how much you should budget for your trip.

Need more details about what amounts to put in certain fields? Read below to learn more about each section and what you might spend.

Estimating Cruise Expenses

Transportation to the Port You can’t start your trip without getting to the ship first. Transportation amounts vary depending on where you are coming from and which port you are sailing from. Assuming you are arriving at an airport, you’ll obviously spend the greatest amount to get to cruise ports farther away. Ports like Galveston and Port Canaveral are located far from the nearest airports and you can expect to spend between $40-60 each way for the cheapest options. Ports like Tampa , Port Everglades , and Miami are just a short ride away and you can get to the port for about $10 per person.

Parking If you are driving from the port, then you don’t have to worry about paying for a ride to the ship. But you do have to pay to park your car during your stay. Parking at the port is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive. You can expect to pay between $10-$20 per day. Want to save? Look for independent parking lots with cheaper prices, or if staying at a hotel near the port, look for one that lets you park for free during your cruise in return for one night’s stay.

Cruise Fare Cruise fares are advertised with enticingly low headline fares. However, you will actually end up paying much more. First, that headline fare is for a single person. Right away you can double the price as cruise cabins are typically sold based on two travelers. Second, the headline rates are for interior cabins. Most people decide to upgrade to nicer cabin, increasing the price. Finally, quoted cruise fares don’t include taxes and port fees. In total, the price you actually pay can be double or triple that headline rate that’s advertised.

Be sure you include the total cost of your cruise when using the calculator — not just the headline price.

Gratuities Our calculator automatically estimates gratuities based on the number of days and people traveling. While gratuities can vary, they usually run about $13 per person, per day. So a couple traveling together can expect to pay $26 per day, total.

Excursions Unless you plan to hang out on the ship or find a beach nearby, then you’ll likely want an excursion when in port. Excursions can be fun and make a memorable experience when in port. They can also be expensive. Cheap excursions run about $50 while the most expensive can be $150 per person. If traveling with kids, their ticket is usually a little cheaper, but not by much. You can see excursions you’d like to book on your cruise line’s website to get a better idea of what you might spend on a particular outing.

Alcoholic Beverages Drinking is a big draw on a cruise ship. There’s lots of time spent on the ship and bars are abundant. You can either purchase drinks one by one (they run about $7 for a beer and $10 for a cocktail) or you can purchase a drink package what allows you to drink what you want for one set price. If you need help on estimating what you might spend on drinks on a cruise, you can try our Drink Package Calculator here.

Gambling Want to gamble on your cruise? Be prepared for some poor payouts. The casinos on a cruise ship offer all the games you’d expect, including blackjack, slots, video poker, roulette, and craps. But with a ship full of people and no other casinos around, the payouts offered aren’t that great .

Still, gambling is a fun way to pass the time if you like gaming. Just budget accordingly.

Specialty Dining One of the good things about cruising is that all the food you can eat is included in the price of the cruise fare. But in the past few years the cruise lines have started to offer specialty dining as well. These are separate restaurants from the main dining room that offer things like Italian food, Mexican food, or steaks. You don’t have to eat here, but compared to the prices you’d find on land, these specialty restaurants are a deal (think $35 a person for a steakhouse meal). However, they still cost extra and you’ll want to include the cost when budgeting.

Spa Treatments There’s not much that’s more relaxing than a spa treatment, but it can be expensive on the ship. Prices vary based on deals offered during your trip and the type of treatment you choose. As a rule of thumb, don’t expect to leave the spa without spending at least $100 per person — and possibly more if you decide to get multiple treatments.

Souvenirs/Miscellaneous: What’s a vacation without souvenirs? From professional photos taken by the cruise line to cheap trinkets sold in port, there’s always an opportunity to spend money on souvenirs. And don’t forget miscellaneous things like meals in port, duty-free shopping , and more.

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

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, what’s the best length of time for a cruise, why cheap cruises are dead (for right now), answered: what’s the cheapest time to take a cruise, which cruise line should i sail the definitive guide for 2024, 10 rules to getting the best deal on a cruise.

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Cruise Anxiety? These Facts May Calm Your Biggest Fears

Revealed: the most expensive carnival cruise you can buy (and cheapest, too), ‘be on time’: cruisers show little sympathy for ncl passengers who missed ship, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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Cruises continue to offer the best value when  it comes to traveling, and the perks really can’t be beat. Anyone who has taken a multi-city (or m ulti-country) trip can attest to the planning, coordination, and cost associated with major vacations. The idea of getting to explore different places while unpacking once is one of the cruise industry’s biggest bonuses. However, getting the most out of your cruise means more than finding the lowest cruise prices . Seasoned cruisers stress the importance of staying sensible when it comes to shipboard spending, and being aware of what may not be included in that super-low cruise fare.

We’ve taken a look at some of the most frequently overlooked  cruise costs , and we’re here to break down some of the  hidden costs of cruises .

What’s included in the cruise price?

What’s not included in the cruise price, costs that add up while on the cruise ship, how to save more on your cruise.

One of the mistakes first-time cruisers make is taking the amazing prices for cruise tickets advertised online as literally all-inclusive. So, what’s actually included in the price?

Cruise Fare

The advertised ticket price covers accommodation for one person on that particular sailing. That’s it. Normally, it also includes some meals, some beverages, and it may include some entertainment while on board - but not always . 

Cruise ship ticket prices can also vary widely, even for the same sailing. Three primary factors influence the price of a cruise:

1. Cruise Lines

Mainstream cruise lines tend to offer larger ships and lower prices, while  luxury cruise lines  are more expensive and have fewer (but larger) cabins.

2. Cabin Type

All cabin types were not created equal. Interior cabins can be as much as 10 times cheaper than the swankiest suites on the same sailing . In 2017, for example, we saw interior cabins on a 12-night Great Barrier Reef cruise on Celebrity Solstice priced at $2,349. The penthouse suite on the same cruise? A cool $29,725. 

3. Where you go (and when)

Generally speaking, Caribbean cruises tend to be cheaper than more adventurous or remote locations. For example, the average total cost of a 7-night Caribbean cruise per person ranges between $1500 and $2000, while the same cruise to Alaska may shift that whole price range up $500. To get a deeper insight you can check out this comparison of the cheapest cruise lines for a Caribbean cruise in 2019 . Timing also matters: a Mediterranean cruise during the summer will be significantly more expensive than one in March, when the high season begins, or October, when it ends.

It’s also worth noting that cruise fares are always listed per person, not per cabin. Even prices listed on cabin types are calculated per person. An interior cabin for the bargain price of $299 with two guests will wind up costing a total of $598 before taxes and fees. 

“Okay, Cruisewatch,” you might say, “That’s all well and good, but I’m a lone wolf. I like my cruises like I like my intergalactic smugglers - solo.” We hate to be the bearers of bad news (especially because we appreciate sci-fi puns as much as the next digital cruise advisor), but single passengers can expect to pay a premium of at least 150% of the advertised cruise price. 

Before you cry foul, this cruise practice isn’t the nickel-and-diming it’s cracked up to be. Just like airlines sell individual seats, cruises sell individual accommodation in double-occupancy cabins. So, one person in a cabin is akin to one person taking up two seats on a flight. It may not seem fair, but as we’ll see below, the average additional revenue generated by even one passenger is pretty significant. For this reason, solo cruisers should expect to pay anywhere between 150% and 200% of the advertised cruise price.

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The sheer amount of extras and goodies available to cruise guests can make budgeting in advance difficult, but it’s worth it. The spontaneity of a splurge may seem harmless enough on the ship, but avoiding the comedown of post-vacation sticker shock is only possible with planning. When you’re figuring out how much your cruise costs, be sure to account for the following additional costs.

1. Taxes, fees, and cruise port expenses

Should taxes and fees be included in the advertised cruise price? Probably. But until that paradigm shift happens in the cruise industry, the work of calculating the additional cost falls squarely on the consumer. Here’s the brass tacks of what you need to know:

Taxes are assessed regardless of your port of embarkation (aka port of departure). Some taxes may go back to the embarkation port, while some may go to the country where the cruise ship is registered. 

Port fees may be itemized on their own, or may be lumped in with “taxes and fees” on your receipt. These are fees the port charges the cruise line, which are then passed to you, the passenger. Port fees are based on the number of people on a cruise, as opposed to how much you spent on your ticket. Different ports charge different fees. For example, the fee for a Caribbean port may be half  the fee for an Alaskan port for the same number of people. 

All taxes and fees are charged in advance, including port fees. If you miss a port due to inclement weather or other extenuating circumstances, the fee for that port may be credited back to you in part or whole, usually as onboard credit. 

How much do taxes, fees, and cruise port expenses usually cost?

This largely depends on the cruise line and destination, but you can generally estimate an additional $100 to $200 per person in taxes and fees. 

2. Flights and transportation to & from the cruise ship

Even if you live in the port city from which you’ll depart (assuming it’s the same one to which you’ll return), you’ll still have transportation costs associated with getting yourself to the gangway. More likely, you’ll need to factor in the cost of flights, airport transfers, hotels, and/or parking. Some cruise lines may offer additional transfer packages at the time of booking (including flights), but these prices are also adjusted to include overhead for the additional manpower needed to coordinate travel. They can certainly save you a headache, but if your budget is your main concern, spending a few extra hours checking airfare, transfers, and hotels can save a lot of money.

How much does transportation usually cost?

Not to sound like a broken record, but it ultimately depends greatly on your departure dates , how far in advance you’re able to book transportation and lodging, and where your cruise departs. Generally speaking, plan to spend around $500 per person for flights, with transfer costs averaging anywhere between $20 and $100 per person .

3. Alcoholic beverages & specialty coffees onboard

With the exception of many luxury cruises and, somewhat oddly, Norwegian Sky, prepare to pay for all alcoholic drinks and specialty coffees while on the ship. Many cruise lines also charge for sodas and bottled water, at least outside of meal times. 

When it comes to coffee, regular brewed or drip coffees are more likely to be included. Specialty coffees, on the other hand, like lattes, cappuccinos, or blended coffees are considered premium, and charged as such. 

Take a look at this breakdown of cruise lines based on upcharges for coffee drinks, and see if you can spot the pattern.

We’ll give you a hint: as a general rule, the more expensive the cruise ship tickets , the cheaper the drinks. This is mainly due to the fact that luxury cruise lines do not rely as much on revenue from food and beverage sales. Mainstream cruise lines, on the other hand, have a habit of upselling, partially in order to keep base cruise prices low.

Many cruise lines offer  drink packages  both in advance and on board. Whether you’re on a family vacation or a booze cruise, these packages can occasionally help to soften the sticker shock of drink prices. Be sure to read the fine print, though, as not every drink package is the deal it may seem. 

One final note: bottled water is almost never included in the cruise price, but may be included in some drink packages. Before shelling out for a $4 bottle of Evian, remember that the tap water onboard is both free and totally safe to drink. If you need distilled water for medical needs, be sure to discuss your needs with your cruise ship representative well in advance. Otherwise, be prepared to pay extra .

How much do alcoholic beverages and specialty coffees usually cost?

Again, the costs vary by cruise line and sailing, but expect to pay an average of $5 to $12 per drink . 

4. Gratuities and service charges on the cruise

Regardless of whether or not you agree with the policy, the fact is that many cruise staff members rely on tips and gratuities . These days, most of the gratuities you’ll be expected to pay will automatically be added to all onboard purchases. The standard cruise gratuity is 15%, though this is adjustable in your onboard account . It’s important to note that you do not have to pay these gratuities, but if you enjoyed the service from your stateroom and dining staff, you should pay them. 

Daily service charges go to your stateroom attendant and server, and will either be billed to your shipboard account or prepaid at the time of booking. All other gratuities for bartenders, guides, etc., will be added to your bill afterward. 

The exception is your porter, or the person who carries your luggage on and off the ship. Porters do not receive a percentage of the total gratuities, but should still receive a small tip. Bring enough cash to tip your porter $1 to $4 per person, or $1-2 per bag. It’s not required, but it is a nice gesture to show your appreciation for their work. 

How much do gratuities and service charges usually cost?

This really depends on how generous you want to be and how good the service was, but you can roughly estimate around $13 per person per day .

5. Ship Internet Access and WiFi

Internet access onboard cruise ships has been a notorious sore spot for years. The good news is that cruise lines seem to be improving their connections all the time, with some boasting better speeds than on land. However, cruisers who want to share their experiences on social media or stay connected with family, friends, or work aren’t likely to find bargain deals on cruise ship WiFi . 

This is partially due to the complexities that also plague airlines - the difficulty of maintaining a consistent connection while in transit, even crossing multiple national borders, remains a tough challenge for cruise lines. 

Normally your choice of shipboard internet packages falls into two categories:

Flat daily rate:  Basically, you pay for each day you want to connect to the Internet. These packages usually start at $8.99 per day and increase from there.

Metered:  With this option, you pay either by the minute or by the megabyte. Either way, the cost can add up fast , so you’ll need to monitor your usage very closely. 

Some cruise lines, like Norwegian Cruise Line, are also beginning to offer Internet packages specifically for social media. Their “Freestyle Choice Plans” distinguish between certain apps and websites to cater to cruise passengers’ needs. 

Other cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, focus on providing the highest quality connection possible. VOOM, the Internet aboard Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise ships, is fast and consistent, but with a price tag to match. 

How much does cruise ship internet and WiFi usually cost?

Honestly, by far the cheapest option is simply to disconnect. If that isn’t an option, prepare to pay a flat daily rate of at least $9 per day , or metered rates averaging 75 cents per minute or 35 cents per megabyte . 

6. Specialty restaurants on the cruise ship

If spending every meal in the buffet or main dining room sounds like a little too much, or if you simply want to experience some world-class cuisine, specialty restaurants are a great option. They’re also one of the many places on the ship where it’s easy to overspend. 

As cruise ships expand their culinary repertoire to include tastes from around the world, cruisers have the chance to try adventurous, delectable dishes they might not otherwise encounter. Budgeting for these indulgences means you don’t have to miss out on anything, so check out what your cruise ship has on offer before tallying up the final costs for your vacation.

How much do specialty restaurants usually cost?

Depending on how often you’d like to frequent them, specialty restaurants can cost from $35 and upwards per person . 

7. Extra activities and shore excursions

For many, the idea of a day in the cruise ship spa seems dreamy and serene. But it’s harder to reconcile the picture of calm many ship spas advertise with the average price of $120 for a 50 minute massage - before tip . It’s not only the spa treatments , either. Extra activities like cooking or fitness classes don’t come cheap, and it’s easy to spend more than you meant to in the cruise ship souvenir shops, mall, or casino. Families with young children may also need to budget for babysitting services or kids activities. Shore excursions are also rarely included.

Here’s the breakdown on shore excursions and tours:

Free: Explore on your own. Most port cities have plenty to do within walking distance from the ship, though it’s best to remember that if you want to pick up a souvenir or a meal, you’ll have to pay for those.

Most budget-friendly: Guided walking tours. Nothing beats touring a new city with a friendly and knowledgeable guide to share insights and show you the best spots. If you’re traveling on a multinational cruise, these tours will typically be in English, or will offer English translations.

Most expensive: Adventure tours like helicopter rides, hot air ballooning, or Grand Prix racing, or tours that include meals or wine tastings. 

How much do extra activities and shore excursions usually cost?

As always, it depends on what you want to spend your time doing, and how much structure you want doing it. On average, walking tours cost around $50 per person , while luxury or adventure tours cost an average of $400 per person . 

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In short, you can see that the average cruise price per person depends strongly on the cruise itself and the personal on board preferences. But with a little planning you can easily calculate your individual cruise cost. 

Here are four of our tips on how to save the most on your cruise :

1. Choose the right time to book your cruise

Timing your cruise right can save you thousands of dollars, and can give you a better all-around experience. Booking early will give you more options at the same price point. Don’t worry - if fares drop later, you may be able to save some of your money by canceling and rebooking your cruise. 

2. Choose the right region for your next cruise

It’s possible to save up to 71% on your cruise based on the region you’re sailing and when you book. Repositioning cruises (when a cruise ship sets sail from one port and arrives at another) also tend to be cheaper. 

3. Take advantage of perks and rewards from cruise lines

Signing up for rewards or loyalty programs with cruise lines can also offer discounts or extra onboard credit. Some cruise lines may even offer “cash back” rebates on the price of your cruise ticket. 

4. Consider an agent to book your next cruise vacation

Occasionally, booking directly through the cruise line can mean paying a premium. Booking through a travel agent can offer not only more personalization and cruise expert tips, but also money-saving cruise hacks to keep you and your wallet happy.

Check out these articles for more information on the costs of cruising:

• What Is Included in Your Cruise Fare?
• Top 10 Tips on How to get the Best Cruise Deals
• 13 Guaranteed Ways to Save on Your Cruise

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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to destinations like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment, all rolled into one. Some cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. Cruising means seeing the world while unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids and teens -- all for free. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship for you. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with staying at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- all their extras.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their cabins but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors.

Cruise lines such as MSC Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes lower. Here's a tip: Many times, the smaller ships from these lines offer the smallest prices.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

Being flexible will get you the best last-minute cruise deals. If you live near a cruise port and can drive, you're probably going to be able to jump on those deals that might pop up a week or two before the ship is set to sail.

If you don't have flexibility with dates and locations, be willing to bend on destination. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise costs on average. When you see it drop, pounce! Many cruise lines update pricing several times every day, so be prepared.

Best cruises in 2020

Part of the appeal of cruising is that there's truly something for everyone. Ships come in an array of sizes, some loaded with so many activities, you couldn't get to them all in a week.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations to which they sail. The Caribbean is a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, also is a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise lines such as Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Disney, Celebrity, MSC and Holland America for a family cruise.

River cruising has been heating up over the past few years, with itineraries that send passengers down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to even more exotic locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam or the Volga River in Russia. Popular river cruises embark in cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. Popular river cruise lines include Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon, Scenic, Emerald Waterways, Tauck, Uniworld and Crystal.

If you're a thrill-seeker, consider an expedition cruise. These cruises, often onboard small ships, offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world, including Antarctica, Alaska, Australia and Greenland. Passengers will spend their time kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, Hurtigruten, Ponant and Quark Expeditions.

Luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard smaller ships with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be smaller, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships can't -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Azamara, Viking Oceans and Silversea.

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

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

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

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

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

To skip to any of the above mentioned analysis, feel free to use our quick links below.

• 1) Cruise Ship Cost to Build by Cruise Line
• 2) Average Cruise Ship Cost by Cabin
• 3) Cruise Ship Cost Increase Over Time
• 4) Cruise Ship Total Value by Cruise Company
• 5) All Cruise Ships Cost to Build

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

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

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost to Build... by Line

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

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

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

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

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost to Build... by Cabin

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

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

Why did we use cabins as a proxy for size ?

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

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

Cruise Ship Cost Increase Over Time

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

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

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

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

Cruise Ship Total Value by Cruise Company

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

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

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

Most Expensive Cruise Ships

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

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

#1 - Allure of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Allure of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.5 Billion for the ship in 2010.

The ship measures 225k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Allure of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $6,658 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Allure of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,742 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $547k per cabin for this ship.

The Allure of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Royal Caribbean
• Cruise Ship : Allure of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,500,000,000
• Year Built : 2010
• Gross Tonnage : 225,282
• Total Staterooms : 2,742 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $2.06 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $6,658 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $547k per cabin
• Current Status : active

#2 - Wonder of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Wonder of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2021.

The ship measures 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Wonder of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,919 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Wonder of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $492k per cabin for this ship.

The Wonder of the Seas has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : Wonder of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,350,000,000
• Year Built : 2021
• Gross Tonnage : 228,081
• Total Staterooms : 2,745 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.31 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,919 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $492k per cabin
• Current Status : future ship

#3 - Harmony of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Harmony of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2016.

The ship measures 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Harmony of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,929 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Harmony of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $492k per cabin for this ship.

The Harmony of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Harmony of the Seas
• Year Built : 2016
• Gross Tonnage : 227,700
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.53 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,929 per GT

#4 - Symphony of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Symphony of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2018.

The ship measures 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Symphony of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,919 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Symphony of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $492k per cabin for this ship.

The Symphony of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Symphony of the Seas
• Year Built : 2018
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.44 Billion

#5 - Oasis of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Oasis of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.3 Billion for the ship in 2009.

The ship measures 225k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Oasis of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,771 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Oasis of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,137 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $608k per cabin for this ship.

The Oasis of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Oasis of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,300,000,000
• Year Built : 2009
• Total Staterooms : 2,137 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.84 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,771 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $608k per cabin

#6 - Norwegian Epic Cost to Build

How much did the Norwegian Epic cost to build? Norwegian spent $1.2 Billion for the ship in 2010.

The ship measures 156k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Norwegian Epic cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,699 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Norwegian Epic cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,122 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Norwegian paid roughly $566k per cabin for this ship.

The Norwegian Epic has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Norwegian
• Cruise Ship : Norwegian Epic
• Cost to Build : $1,200,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 155,873
• Total Staterooms : 2,122 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.65 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,699 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $566k per cabin

#7 - MSC World Europa Cost to Build

How much did the MSC World Europa cost to build? MSC spent $1.15 Billion for the ship in 2023.

The ship measures 206k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC World Europa cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,591 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC World Europa cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,700 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $426k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC World Europa has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Line : MSC
• Cruise Ship : MSC World Europa
• Cost to Build : $1,150,000,000
• Year Built : 2023
• Gross Tonnage : 205,700
• Total Staterooms : 2,700 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.05 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,591 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $426k per cabin

#8 - MSC Seashore Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Seashore cost to build? MSC spent $1.15 Billion for the ship in 2022.

The ship measures 154k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Seashore cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,468 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Seashore cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,066 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $557k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Seashore has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : MSC Seashore
• Year Built : 2022
• Gross Tonnage : 154,000
• Total Staterooms : 2,066 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.08 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,468 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $557k per cabin

#9 - Ovation of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Ovation of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.1 Billion for the ship in 2016.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Ovation of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $6,522 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Ovation of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,918 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $574k per cabin for this ship.

The Ovation of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Ovation of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,100,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 168,666
• Total Staterooms : 1,918 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.25 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $6,522 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $574k per cabin

#10 - Celebration Cost to Build

How much did the Celebration cost to build? Carnival spent $1 Billion for the ship in 2022.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Celebration cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,438 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Celebration cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,641 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Carnival paid roughly $379k per cabin for this ship.

The Celebration has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Line : Carnival
• Cruise Ship : Celebration
• Cost to Build : $1,000,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 183,900
• Total Staterooms : 2,641 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $938 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,438 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $379k per cabin

#11 - Celebrity Edge Cost to Build

How much did the Celebrity Edge cost to build? Celebrity spent $1 Billion for the ship in 2018.

The ship measures 131k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Celebrity Edge cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,644 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Celebrity Edge cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,467 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Celebrity paid roughly $682k per cabin for this ship.

The Celebrity Edge has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Celebrity
• Cruise Ship : Celebrity Edge
• Gross Tonnage : 130,818
• Total Staterooms : 1,467 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.07 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,644 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $682k per cabin

#12 - Mardi Gras Cost to Build

How much did the Mardi Gras cost to build? Carnival spent $950 Million for the ship in 2020.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Mardi Gras cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,166 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Mardi Gras cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,641 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Carnival paid roughly $360k per cabin for this ship.

The Mardi Gras has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Mardi Gras
• Cost to Build : $950,000,000
• Year Built : 2020
• Cost in Today Dollars : $950 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,166 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $360k per cabin

#13 - Costa Firenze Cost to Build

How much did the Costa Firenze cost to build? Costa spent $950 Million for the ship in 2020.

The ship measures 136k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Costa Firenze cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,011 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Costa Firenze cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,116 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Costa paid roughly $449k per cabin for this ship.

The Costa Firenze has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Costa
• Cruise Ship : Costa Firenze
• Gross Tonnage : 135,500
• Total Staterooms : 2,116 cabins
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,011 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $449k per cabin

#14 - MV Iona Cost to Build

How much did the MV Iona cost to build? P&O UK spent $950 Million for the ship in 2020.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MV Iona cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,163 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MV Iona cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,610 staterooms . Some quick math shows that P&O UK paid roughly $364k per cabin for this ship.

The MV Iona has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Line : P&O UK
• Cruise Ship : MV Iona
• Gross Tonnage : 184,000
• Total Staterooms : 2,610 cabins
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,163 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $364k per cabin

#15 - Quantum of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Quantum of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $950 Million for the ship in 2014.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Quantum of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,632 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Quantum of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,839 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $517k per cabin for this ship.

The Quantum of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Quantum of the Seas
• Year Built : 2014
• Total Staterooms : 1,839 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.15 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,632 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $517k per cabin

#16 - Costa Smeralda Cost to Build

How much did the Costa Smeralda cost to build? Costa spent $950 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 185k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Costa Smeralda cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,135 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Costa Smeralda cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,612 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Costa paid roughly $364k per cabin for this ship.

The Costa Smeralda has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Costa Smeralda
• Year Built : 2019
• Gross Tonnage : 185,010
• Total Staterooms : 2,612 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $980 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,135 per GT

#17 - Disney Fantasy Cost to Build

How much did the Disney Fantasy cost to build? Disney spent $950 Million for the ship in 2012.

The ship measures 130k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Disney Fantasy cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,325 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Disney Fantasy cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,250 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Disney paid roughly $760k per cabin for this ship.

The Disney Fantasy has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Disney
• Cruise Ship : Disney Fantasy
• Year Built : 2012
• Gross Tonnage : 129,690
• Total Staterooms : 1,250 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.22 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,325 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $760k per cabin

#18 - Anthem of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Anthem of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $950 Million for the ship in 2015.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Anthem of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,632 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Anthem of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,095 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $453k per cabin for this ship.

The Anthem of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Anthem of the Seas
• Year Built : 2015
• Total Staterooms : 2,095 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.11 Billion
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $453k per cabin

#19 - AIDAnova Cost to Build

How much did the AIDAnova cost to build? AIDA spent $950 Million for the ship in 2018.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the AIDAnova cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,166 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the AIDAnova cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,626 staterooms . Some quick math shows that AIDA paid roughly $362k per cabin for this ship.

The AIDAnova has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : AIDA
• Cruise Ship : AIDAnova
• Total Staterooms : 2,626 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.01 Billion
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $362k per cabin

#20 - MSC Grandiosa Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Grandiosa cost to build? MSC spent $950 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 182k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Grandiosa cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,233 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Grandiosa cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,421 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $392k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Grandiosa has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : MSC Grandiosa
• Gross Tonnage : 181,541
• Total Staterooms : 2,421 cabins
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,233 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $392k per cabin

#21 - MSC Meraviglia Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Meraviglia cost to build? MSC spent $950 Million for the ship in 2017.

The ship measures 172k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Meraviglia cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,536 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Meraviglia cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,244 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $423k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Meraviglia has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : MSC Meraviglia
• Year Built : 2017
• Gross Tonnage : 171,598
• Total Staterooms : 2,244 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.04 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,536 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $423k per cabin

#22 - MSC Bellissima Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Bellissima cost to build? MSC spent $950 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 172k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Bellissima cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,536 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Bellissima cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,217 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $429k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Bellissima has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : MSC Bellissima
• Total Staterooms : 2,217 cabins
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $429k per cabin

#23 - Spectrum of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Spectrum of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $940 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Spectrum of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,569 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Spectrum of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,098 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $448k per cabin for this ship.

The Spectrum of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Spectrum of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $940,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 168,800
• Total Staterooms : 2,098 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $970 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,569 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $448k per cabin

#24 - Odyssey of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Odyssey of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $940 Million for the ship in 2021.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Odyssey of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,550 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Odyssey of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,098 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $448k per cabin for this ship.

The Odyssey of the Seas has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : Odyssey of the Seas
• Gross Tonnage : 169,379
• Cost in Today Dollars : $910 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,550 per GT

#25 - MSC Virtuosa Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Virtuosa cost to build? MSC spent $937 Million for the ship in 2021.

The ship measures 181k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Virtuosa cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,177 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Virtuosa cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,421 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $387k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Virtuosa has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : MSC Virtuosa
• Cost to Build : $937,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 181,000
• Cost in Today Dollars : $907 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,177 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $387k per cabin

All Cruise Ships Cost to Build

Finally, here's the hard data. The spreadsheet below shows hundreds of ships ranked by total cost to build. Also included are cost today, cost per ton, and cost by cabin.

How much does a cruise ship cost to build - FAQs

How much does a cruise ship cost to build? On average, a cruise ship costs $506 million. To get this approximated cost to build a cruise ship, we analyzed 231 active and ordered vessels. In the charts above, we show all ships by cost, cruise line, and size.

What is the most expensive cruise ship ever built? The Allure of the Seas is the most expensive ship ever built at a price tag of $1.5 billion dollars. The ship was constructed in constructed by Royal Caribbean in 2010. It has a gross tonnage of 225k GT and a total cabin count of 2,742 staterooms.

What cruise line has the most expensive cruise ships? Royal Caribbean leads the cruise industry with the most expensive ships. On average, RCCL spends $669 million per new vessel. Next in line is Disney followed by Costa than NCL. The entire ranking chart can be seen above.

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

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

How much are Carnival Cruise Ships worth? Carnival Corporation owns nine cruise brands and a combined 94 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $74.2 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

How much are Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships worth? Royal Caribbean Corporation owns or partially owns seven cruise brands and a combined 62 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $47.9 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

How much are Norwegian Cruise Ships worth? Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings owns three cruise brands and a combined 28 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $19.1 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

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

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

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

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

Ready to start planning your next getaway? Start exploring cruise deals now.

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If you ever have the need to purchase a cruise ship, you’d have to have some pretty deep pockets, as these seafaring transportation modes do not come cheap.  So how much can you expect to pay for a cruise ship? Cruise ships come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, and therefore its pricing differs. You can, however, expect to pay from $2-350 million. Here’s a breakdown of what a cruise ship might cost you. 

Popular Reasoning behind Buying a Cruise Ship

There may be several reasons why someone would want to buy a cruise ship . For instance, many people don’t want to spend their savings on buying a home or traveling. If you buy a cruise ship, you get to travel in a condo-like residence . So you’ll be fulfilling your dream of cruising without leaving the comforts of home, as your ship will now be your home. 

If you buy a cruise ship , you’ll also have a permanent home at sea, which provides all the comforts of a multi-bedroom apartment on land. You’ll also get to enjoy spectacular sea views. Owning a cruise ship satisfies any wanderlust you may have, without you having to go through customs and packing. 

You also won’t need to contend with lost luggage if you live on a ship. If you’re planning to live on a ship when you retire, you’ll pay less than when opting for assisted living on land. The reason being is that with a cruise, you could pay up to $150 per day, as opposed to $2,000 per month in an independent living facility or $3,000 per month in an assisted living facility. 

The Cost of Building a Luxury Liner 

You’ll need more than a billion dollars to design and build a luxury liner. One of the biggest luxury liners in the world, Harmony of the Seas, set Royal Caribbean back a whopping $1.35b billion. Royal Caribbean really pulled out all the stops with Harmony of the Seas , as this liner was designed with 2,747 cabins, a Starbucks café, and robot bartenders. 

The second biggest cruise liner, Allure of the Seas, cost $1.5 billion, a cost higher than Harmony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean also built Oasis of the Seas at a cost of $1.billion.

What a Typical Cruise Ship May Cost 

Luxury liners are lavish and humungous, so pricing is exorbitant. However, your average smaller cruise ship costs considerably lower. Data gathering company the Muster Station, gathered data on the cost of more than 200 cruise ships in a bid to ascertain the average price of a regular cruise ship. 

The Muster Station found that ships accommodating an average of 500 passengers, cost roughly $260 million. Cruise ships catering to up to 1000 passengers cost an average of $394 million. Ships catering between 1000-2000 passengers cost $442 million and those catering to 2000-3000 passengers cost approximately $555 million. Therefore a big lottery winner could afford to buy a cruise ship .

The Muster Station also discovered that cruise ships looking to accommodate 3000-4000 passengers would cost $734 million, while cruise ships catering to 4000-5000 passengers had an average cost of $937 million. Cruise ships catering to an excess of 5000 passengers averaged at $1, 31 billion. 

Factors Determining the Cost of a Cruise Ship, besides Size 

Besides size, there are other factors that determine the cost of a cruise ship . You’ll also need to take into account the economy when the ship is being built, the shipyard where the ship is being designed and assembled, as well as amenities and features. 

The price of materials per ship varies too. Steel is pretty expensive and an ocean liner would need more of it, compared to the amount of steel necessary for a smaller boxer cruise ship . You may also opt to buy a renovated ship, as it can be less expensive than a newly built ship, although some renovations could spike the price of a renovated cruise ship to half a billion. 

Determining the Type of Cruise Ship You’ll Need 

Pricing is an important factor when deciding on the type of cruise ship you want. However, there are other deciding factors too. One of these is the type of cruise ship that’s ideal for your needs. 

Ask yourself if a casino ship, plush catamaran, river cruise boat, ocean liner, floating hotel ship , three or five-star cruise ship, or a 1500 or 100-passenger ship suits you best. Ask yourself whether you need a classic cruise liner, a catamaran, or a 140-meter cruise liner to best cater to your business or personal purposes. 

Where to Find Cruise Ships 

You’ll rarely ever find a cruise ship advertised in your local classified section of the newspaper, even though some companies do advertise cruise ships online. These companies include ShipTraders.com, Appolo Duck Commercial Listings, WorkBoatsInternational.com, Homestead.com, and MegaYachtsOnline.com.

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Cruise line all-inclusive packages: Everything you need to know

Editor's Note

Luxury lines aren't the only ones offering all-inclusive cruise packages these days. Mainstream and upscale cruise lines, which traditionally have offered a basic fare and then charged passengers a la carte for onboard expenses, have begun to offer more inclusive fare add-ons. Cruisers are buzzing about these new options, which allow them to pay upfront for popular amenities and not feel nickel-and-dimed on board.

This new pricing strategy, which goes beyond popular drinks packages , has large-ship cruise lines such as Celebrity, Holland America and Princess jockeying to compete with luxury lines and their all-inclusive fares. Small-ship cruise lines Azamara and Windstar have also hopped on the trend.

These packages are designed to make the cruise experience hassle-free by allowing passengers to pay for most of their onboard expenses — such as beverages, Wi-Fi and gratuities — before they board. However, they might not always be the best option for every cruiser.

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Here's a look at which cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages, what's included, how much they cost and the factors that can make them a great deal or a potential waste of money.

Celebrity Cruises' All Included package

The package

Celebrity Cruises — known for having a grown-up, bar-centric ambience on board its ships — offers an All Included cruise fare on any itinerary (excluding the Galapagos Islands). With this fare type, passengers get two included amenities: basic Wi-Fi and Celebrity's Classic beverage package.

The package used to include crew tips, but Celebrity removed that benefit in 2023.

What's the cost of the All Included package? That depends on the destination, itinerary length and time of year. Celebrity Cruises would not provide an average, but in all the fares we priced out, passengers could expect to pay $70 per person, per day, above the base cruise fare. However, it's possible the difference in pricing can be higher on certain cruises.

When browsing for cruises on Celebrity's website, the prices you will see are the Cruise Only fares (except when noted, mostly on Retreat and AquaClass categories). During the booking process (right after cabin selection), you can choose either the higher All Included fare or the lower-priced Cruise Only fare.

Tip: If you'd like to book a balcony cabin at the All Included price, always price out AquaClass and Concierge cabins, as well. Those room types, which offer extra amenities, sometimes cost just a few dollars more (or even less) at the cruise-only fare than a veranda cabin with the add-on package.

All passengers on the reservation must select the same fare. One person can't book All Included and the other Cruise Only. Families sailing in the same cabin must all book the same fare type, although underage passengers will only have access to nonalcoholic beverages.

Related: Best all-inclusive cruise lines

The two amenities that come with an All Included booking are typically priced as follows:

• Classic beverage package: $89 per person, per day, plus a 20% bar gratuity on every drink ordered
• Basic Wi-Fi: $20 per person, per day

The Classic beverage package only includes drinks priced up to $10. Note that the All Included fare covers the bar gratuity normally charged to guests who purchase a beverage package independently.

Celebrity's Basic Wi-Fi plan is its value-priced option, which offers access to basic web functions: texting on messenger services, web browsing and email.

Let's crunch the numbers. Bought a la carte, Celebrity's Classic beverage package and basic Wi-Fi will cost $109 per person, per day; you will be on the hook for a 20% automatic bar gratuity on each drink ordered.

At $70 extra per person, per day, Celebrity's All Included fares are a good value for cruisers who plan to toss back multiple basic cocktails daily — there's no daily limit — and are content with basic Wi-Fi.

Passengers who book All Included fares can also opt to upgrade to the Premium beverage package (for drinks costing up to $17) for an additional $20 per person per day. This must be done within the Cruise Planner platform after final payment is made and up to two days prior to sailing.

Alternatively, they can pay the overage ($2 on a $12 glass of wine or cocktail, for instance) plus a 20% gratuity on the overage.

That puts the total cost of the All Included package at roughly $90 per person, per day, with the upgraded drinks package. Celebrity's Premium beverage package is regularly priced at $109 per person per day, plus there's an automatic 20% gratuity added to the package price (bringing the total daily cost to $130.80).

That means passengers already considering the Premium Beverage Package will definitely save by purchasing the All Included package.

Celebrity cruisers can also upgrade their package to Premium Wi-Fi — which allows messaging and video chat on messenger services, web browsing, email, social media posting, video chat live and watching videos and movies. The upgrade costs an additional $10 per person per day.

The difference between the All Included package cost with basic or premium Wi-Fi is the same as if you purchased a Wi-Fi plan a la carte.

Holland America's Have It All

Passengers booking a cruise on any Holland America ship now have the option to get four premium amenities included with the Have It All package . The line's premium package makes a HAL cruise semi-inclusive when passengers upgrade their base fare.

Here's what's included:

• The Signature beverage package, which includes wines, beers, spirits, cocktails and nonalcoholic options (such as sodas and specialty coffees) that cost $11 and under, as well as bar gratuities. There's a daily limit of 15 beverages per person.
• Specialty dining, with one dinner at either Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto or Tamarind included on a six- to nine-night cruise; two dinners on a 12- to 20-night cruise; and three dinners on a cruise of 21 days or longer (excluding Grand Voyages).
• Wi-Fi Surf package for web surfing, social media and email on one device.
• Shore excursions credit of $100 per person on a six- to nine-night cruise, $200 on a 12- to 20-night cruise and $300 on a cruise that's 21 days or longer (excluding Grand Voyages).

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

Right now, the Have It All package costs $50 per person, per day (reduced from $99 per day as of April 21, 2023). This price reduction is a temporary promotion, and an end date is not specified. When it does change, other perks may be added to the promotion.

Two passengers sharing a cabin must both select Have It All at the time of booking. Unlike most cruise all-inclusive packages, however, HAL's Have It All doesn't include crew gratuities. These will be added to passengers' onboard accounts at $16 per person, per day for guests in cabins and $17.50 per day for guests in suites.

Here is what all the elements of the Have It All package would cost if purchased separately for a seven-night cruise:

• Shore excursion credit: $100 per person, per cruise
• Specialty dining: $25-$40, based on restaurant selected
• Wi-Fi: $105 (at $15 per day)
• Signature beverage package: $384.65 (at $54.95 per person, per day)

Right now, the Have It All package costs $350 per person for a seven-night cruise, which is actually less than the $384.65 Holland America charges for its Signature beverage package for a cruise of this length. Plus, passengers get an extra $230 to $245 in shore excursion, specialty dining and Wi-Fi perks. So, at the $50 per person, per day rate, the Have It All Package is a terrific value, even for moderate drinkers.

However, when the price reverts to $99 per person, per day, or $693 per person for a seven-night cruise, the Signature beverage package ($384.65) and shore excursion, specialty dining and Wi-Fi perks ($245) only add up to $629.65. That's $63.95 less than Have It All pricing. Although, with Have It All, service charges of 18% per beverage (or $1.98 per $11 beverage) are included.

So, if you drink around 33 beverages costing $11 on a seven-night cruise (or about five a day) you can break even. And remember, you'll still need to pay daily crew gratuities.

According to Holland America, other/additional perks may become available with the Have It All package when the price changes.

Princess Plus and Princess Premier

Princess Cruises continues to modify the amenities included in its Princess Plus package , which the cruise line says offers at least a 50% savings over a la carte costs (based on a seven-night cruise). Passengers can also book the Princess Premier package for additional included perks said to offer more than 65% savings.

Princess Plus is priced at $60 per person, per day. What's included?

• Plus Beverage Package, which includes drinks up to $15 (with a 15-drink alcoholic beverage limit per day)
• Wi-Fi for one device per guest ($15 per day if booked separately)
• Crew appreciation, aka gratuities ($16 per person per day for stateroom guests or $18 per person per day for suite guests)
• Two "premium desserts" per day (purchased at the Gelateria, Swirls or Coffee and Cones)
• Two fitness classes per cruise
• Unlimited juice bar drinks
• Two "casual dining" meals per guest, per cruise (at casual sit-down restaurants, like Alfredo's and Kai Sushi, and pop-up venues, like Planks and Steamers)
• Room service delivery at no extra charge
• OceanNow delivery (ordering food and items on your app to wherever you are on board) at no extra charge

Princess Premier costs $80 per person, per day. It features the following perks:

• Premier beverage package, which includes drinks up to $20 (with a 15-drink alcoholic beverage limit per day)
• Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest
• Crew appreciation
• Two specialty dining meals per guest
• Photo package (unlimited digital plus three prints up to 8 inches by 10 inches in size)
• Unlimited "premium desserts" (at Gelateria, Swirls or Coffee and Cones)
• Unlimited fitness classes
• Wearable Medallion accessory
• Reserved theater seating for production shows
• Unlimited casual dining
• OceanNow delivery at no extra charge
• Princess Prizes (a chance to win extras like a wine tasting, Chef's Table experience, onboard credit or even a free cruise)

For either plan, each beverage package also includes bar gratuities (18% per beverage when ordered without the Plus or Premier packages). Passengers under 21 will automatically receive the Zero Alcohol package, which includes fountain sodas, juice bar, fresh juices, bottled water, specialty coffees and teas, frappes, milkshakes and Red Bull energy drinks.

Both packages are capacity-controlled and, if sold out, may not be available for all cabin categories at the time of booking; if available, they can also be purchased on the first day of a cruise.

The first and second guests in a cabin must each book the same Plus or Premier package, but the third and fourth guests are not obligated to do so, meaning a family doesn't have to pay for amenities that kids won't use.

Wi-Fi, specialty dining and the photo package are shareable, so a family of four with two parents on the Princess Premier plan can have their children's devices on Wi-Fi, take home great family photos and enjoy one specialty dining experience with the entire family.

It might take a while to add up the cost of all the amenities, but you don't have to. For couples, the Princess Plus package is a no-brainer.

Wi-Fi and crew appreciation (totaling $31-$33 per person, per day) alone account for more than 50% of the $60 per person, per day (or $420 per person for a seven-night cruise) package charge. With less than $30 per day left to break even and with drinks up to $15 included, you don't have to overindulge to get your money's worth. Those premium desserts, casual meals, fitness classes and unlimited juice bar beverages are the icing on the cake.

For $80 per person, per day, or $540 per person for a seven-night cruise, Princess Premier offers additional savings — mostly if you already planned on purchasing a beverage package and think you'll use at least some of the other perks.

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

The Premier Beverage Package costs $84.99 per person, per day, which is more than the price of the Princess Premier all-inclusive package. If you prefer premium wines and spirits and were planning on purchasing the upgraded drinks package, Princess Premier will more than pay for itself.

The two specialty dining meals are valued at $74 per person, per cruise, or more; this also gets you close to breaking even if you weren't going to purchase a beverage package. Wi-Fi for up to four devices normally costs $40 per day or $280 per seven-night cruise. Combine the two, and you're already ahead. Unlimited desserts, casual dining, fitness classes and juice bar drinks only add to your value.

The bottom line: At $80 per day, Princess Premier can be a good value — especially in comparison to other cruise-line all-inclusive packages costing the same or even more.

Azamara's Experience More

While Azamara 's basic cruise fares already include crew gratuities and standard spirits, beers and select wines (a choice of two whites, two reds and a rose daily), the cruise line's Experience More packages bundle additional onboard amenities at savings of 27% to 32%.

There are four options priced per couple/cabin and one designed for solo travelers. All are available on cruises of eight days or longer, with the exception of one package specific to shorter sailings (seven days or fewer).

The least expensive option for two people sharing a cabin is the Experience More Essentials package. It includes a Premium Beverage Package for two (with additional beer and spirits selections), unlimited Wi-Fi for one device and a $300 shore excursion credit. It's priced at $699 per cabin.

The Experience More on Short Cruises package is the only one available on sailings of seven days or fewer. It includes the Ultimate Beverage Package for two, unlimited Wi-Fi for one device, a $200 shore excursion credit, a $100 onboard spa credit, Chef's Table (a multicourse tasting menu) or Three Table Tour (one night at Aqualina, one night at Prime C and one night at your choice of restaurant) and one bag of laundry per voyage. It's priced at $799 for two people in the same cabin.

Related: Why you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

The Experience More Enjoyment package includes the Premium Beverage Package for two, unlimited Wi-Fi for two devices, a $500 shore excursion credit and a $200 onboard spa credit. It's priced at $1,099 for two people.

The most comprehensive option for two people is the Experience More Indulgence package. It includes the Ultimate Beverage Package for two, unlimited Wi-Fi for two devices, $700 shore excursion credit, $250 onboard spa credit, Chef's Table or Three Table Tour, and five bags of laundry during the voyage. It's priced at $1,599 for two people.

Singles can get in on the savings, too, with the Experience More for Solo Travelers package. It features the Ultimate Beverage Package for one, unlimited Wi-Fi for one device, a $350 shore excursions credit, a $150 onboard spa credit, Chef's Table or Three Table Tour, and three bags of laundry during the voyage. It's priced at $899 per person.

What's the difference between the Premium and Ultimate beverage packages in these offers? The Premium package includes a larger selection of beer than the included list, plus name-brand spirits such as Absolut, Captain Morgan and Bombay Sapphire. The Ultimate package includes all the Premium offerings plus a selection of wine and Champagne by the glass, Evian and Perrier water and more top-shelf spirits.

If bought separately, the Premium package costs $16.95 per person, per day, and the Ultimate package costs $23.95 per person, per day.

Azamara has done the math for passengers:

• Experience More Essentials: priced at $699, valued at $958.50
• Experience More on Short Cruises: priced at $799, valued at $1,103
• Experience More Enjoyment: priced at $1,099, valued at $1,637
• Experience More Indulgence: priced at $1,599, valued at $2,357
• Experience More for Solo Travelers: priced at $899, valued at $1,224

If you already plan on booking shore excursions and specialty dining reservations, enjoying wine and spirits beyond those included in the cruise fare, using Wi-Fi and paying for amenities such as specialty dining or spa treatments, the all-inclusive upgrades offer good value.

However, if you don't plan to take advantage of all the extra-fee services on board, you'll need to do the math around the amenities you would use to determine whether a package is right for you.

Windstar Cruises' All-Inclusive Fare and All-In Package

Windstar Cruises offers an All-Inclusive Fare option for a set daily fee. For Windstar, all-inclusive means unlimited beverages, unlimited Wi-Fi and all gratuities. Passengers can also still opt to book a base cruise-only fare and pay for onboard expenses on an a la carte basis.

Passengers who choose the All-Inclusive Fare prepay $89 per person, per day; the package must be booked within five days of the sail date. Those who book a cruise-only fare can also purchase the All-In Package for $99 per person, per day once they are on board.

Both the inclusive fares and onboard package cover unlimited Wi-Fi, crew gratuities and wine, beer and cocktails ordered on board (as well as the 18% beverage service charge usually tacked onto bar bills).

We took a look at the a la carte items included in the inclusive package to determine the value of Windstar's offering (based on a weeklong sailing).

• Crew gratuities: $16 per person, per day
• Beverage package: $65 (for Captain's Exclusive Beverage Package, which includes cocktails, aperitifs and more). These also incur an 18% service charge.
• Unlimited Wi-Fi: $245 for a seven-night cruise ($35 per person, per day)

Wi-Fi and tips account for $51 of the $89 daily charge before factoring in bar charges. That leaves $38 for beverages. So, the value is there with the All-Inclusive Fare if you plan to enjoy at least three or four alcoholic beverages daily throughout your cruise — and you'll avoid the added service charges.

However, guests who only indulge in the occasional glass of wine or cocktail will not see the full value of the package. Similarly, passengers who prefer to buy one of Windstar's cheaper, more limited usage Wi-Fi plans (200 megabytes or 500 megabytes of data) or intend to share the cost of the Unlimited Wi-Fi plan by logging in one device at a time, might find the $89 or $99 daily charge is not worth it.

Bottom line

Should you upgrade to one of these packages? While convenience is certainly a motivating factor, whether a plan has value depends in most cases on what you think your bar tab will be.

If vacation mode means you'll be tossing back tropical cocktails at the pool all day or enjoying multiple glasses of wine at both lunch and dinner, booking an all-inclusive package is a smart option. If you're not a big drinker or enthusiastic social media user, the better deal is sometimes to stick with the basic fare and pay as you go for what you use.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Frequently Asked Questions

Disney Cruise Prices: How Much Will This Vacation Cost?

W ith a fleet of five luxury cruise ships — and a sixth coming in December of this year — featuring waterslides, Broadway-quality shows and Disney fun for the entire family, Disney cruises are an attractive vacation option. The ships sail in all parts of the world, and Disney even has its own private island.

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If that all sounds like the makings of a perfect family vacation, you’re likely not wrong. But you’re also likely asking: How much does a Disney cruise cost? In fact, Disney cruise prices vary as wildly as Captain Jack Sparrow’s moods. But there’s no magic in divining if a Disney cruise is worth it for you or not, or how you can save money and still step aboard the “happiest place” on water.

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How Much Is a Disney Cruise?

Assuming you don’t want to fly to Sydney for a two-night cruise to Brisbane, Australia, and then fly home again, Disney cruise prices are least expensive if you leave from Florida. For example, a three-night, one-way cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to San Juan, Puerto Rico, was $1,494 as of March 20. As far as round-trip cruises, a four-night western Caribbean cruise leaving from Galveston, Texas, and visiting Progreso, Mexico, was priced at $1,518. On the West Coast, a three-night Baja cruise from San Diego to Ensenada, Mexico, and back again ran $1,712.

All these prices were for two adults sharing an inside cabin. The rates also included all taxes, fees and port expenses.

The Cost of Leveling Up to a Nicer Cabin

As mentioned above, Disney cruise prices cover a vast range. And while they’re not among the most expensive cruise liners, they can get pricey. The above cruises, as well as other cruise offerings, offer a number of different cabin types. For instance, for the Fort Lauderdale cruise listed above, here are the price differences for cabin types for two adults:

Longer Cruises Are Generally More Expensive

As you might expect, in addition to the port of departure and the level of cabin, the length of your cruise will have a major impact on its price. Disney offers cruises lasting anywhere from two to 15 nights. 

The most expensive cruise GOBankingRates could find was a 12-night Mediterranean cruise visiting eight ports, ranging from Greece and Turkey to Spain and Italy. An inside cabin for two adults on this cruise ran $11,417, while a Concierge-level cabin tilted the scale at $33,665.

With more than 600 cruises on offer around the world, however, cruises can be found at virtually every price point between the low and the high.

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Cost for a Family of 4?

There aren’t many brands that scream family louder than Disney, which is why it offers pricing for families of four. If two of those guests are under 18, it does not double the price. It does increase it substantially, however. For instance, for a three-night, one-way cruise from Fort Lauderdale to San Juan, an inside cabin comes in at $1,494 for two adults and $2,506 for a family of four with two under-12 children.

And that 12-night Mediterranean cruise visiting eight ports, which ranged from $11,417 to $33,665 for two adults? It’s $17,501 for an inside cabin for four and $45,141 for a Concierge-level cabin.

Are Disney Cruises All-Inclusive?

Most of what you are probably going on a cruise to experience is included, but there are some notable exceptions. For instance, while all your meals, including 24-hour room service, are included, bottled water and alcohol are not. There are also luxury dining experiences that are not included.

As far as entertainment goes, there are Broadway-quality shows, firework displays, Disney character experiences, movie screenings, pools, waterslides and more included. You’ll also enjoy in-room movies, nightclubs with live music, adult pools and fitness centers for free. However, there are plenty of add-ons that can add up fast. 

Here are some vacation necessities and favorites that aren’t included in the price of the cruise:

• Airfare/transportation to or from the departure or final port
• Pre- or post-cruise hotel stays
• Certain family and kids experiences
• Bottled water, alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks
• Wireless internet
• Vacation protection plan
• Adult-exclusive dining
• Spa and salon visits
• Many Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) amenities

What Is Disney’s Private Island Like and How Much Is a Cruise There?

Disney’s private island, called Disney Castaway Cay, lies in the Bahamas, and as the name implies, it is exclusive to Disney cruise guests. A tropical island, Castaway Cay has white sand beaches, clear blue water and picturesque palm trees. However, this is a family fun-themed island, so there are plenty of amenities and adventures.

Things To Do on Castaway Cay

• Beach Time: Grab one of the plentiful beach chairs and umbrellas available.
• 5K Run/Walk: Run or walk the 5K trail around the island; complete it and earn a medal.
• Character Appearances: Take advantage of a photo op with one of the many Disney characters on the island.
• Sports Beach: Play a game of volleyball or tetherball.
• Snorkeling Lagoon: Follow the two underwater trails and search for the hidden Mickey.
• Serenity Bay: Relax at an adults-only beach with massages, a bar and BBQ.
• Pelican Plunge: Slip into one of two twisty water slides or a water play section.
• In Da Shade Game Pavilion: Play table tennis, foosball, billiards, and basketball in the shade.
• Teen Hideout: Let your 14- to 17-year-olds enjoy an exclusive spot of their own.
• Boat Rentals: Rent a kayak, paddleboat, aqua trike or stand-up paddleboard.
• Shopping: Shop for your favorite Disney souvenirs.

The Cost of a Cruise to Castaway Cay

For two adult guests staying in an inside cabin, the least expensive cruise to Castaway Cay that GOBankingRates found was a three-night trip from Fort Lauderdale for $1,631. On the opposite end of the spectrum was aboard Disney’s newest ship, Disney Treasure, for its maiden voyage. This was a seven-night trip visiting Tortola, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay for $11,279, for a Verandah-level cabin (the only level offered).

How Can I Save Money on My Disney Cruise?

In addition to some of the more obvious ways to save money on a cruise , such as using credit card points for airfare and any hotel stays, avoiding add-ons like spa treatments and excursions, and choosing round-trip cruises departing from ports nearest your home, there are some unexpected ways to save money on your Disney vacation.

Alcohol is not included in Disney cruise prices, but you can bring a limited amount of your own aboard. Guests 21 and older (18 and older in Australia) can bring up to two bottles of wine (750 milliliters each) and six 12-ounce beers on board at the start of their journey and at each port of call. However, you will be charged a $27 corkage fee if you choose to drink the wine (or champagne) in one of the ship’s dining rooms.

Special Offers

Disney Cruise Line lists several special offers. For instance, you can enjoy up to 25% off select cruises designated by the cruise line. These offers do come with some restrictions, however, like allowing Disney to choose your cabin, and are nonrefundable. Other discounts include up to 25% off on select sailings for Canadian residents and special military rates.   

Costco Travel

Costco Travel has partnered with Disney Cruise Line and offers significant discounts on select cruises for its members. For instance, a quick search found a four-night Bahamian cruise from Port Canaveral, visiting Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, which retailed for $2,303 per person on Disney Cruise Line’s site, offered at $1,284 per person on Costco Travel’s site. So if you are a Costco member, it’s worth shopping Costco Travel .

Prices and deals are accurate as of March 20, 2024, and are subject to change.

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : Disney Cruise Prices: How Much Will This Vacation Cost?

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Cruise passengers left stranded on african island to be reimbursed for some travel cost paid to return to ship.

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The eight cruise passengers who were stranded on an African island after their ship left the port without them will be reimbursed for some of the costs they endured while trying to make it back onto the ship, the cruise line said.

Jill and Jay Campbell, of South Carolina, along with four other Americans and two Australians, had to race through seven different countries in 48 hours to reboard the Norwegian Dawn in Senegal on Tuesday.

They had earlier hoped to board the ship at the port in Gambia in West Africa, traveling 15 hours through six countries to reach the port on Sunday, only to find that the ship could not dock due to low tides, according to WPDE.

From there, the group boarded a bus and had to take a ferry across a river, Kurt Gies, the son-in-law of another passenger who was left on the island of São Tomé and Principe after she suffered a stroke , told The Post.

A spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line says the passengers will be reimbursed for the costs they endured while trying to race from Gambia to Senegal.

“Despite the series of unfortunate events outside of our control, we will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal,” the cruise line said.

It had earlier said the passengers — who were left on the island without any of their belongings from the cabin, including money, medicine and necessary travel documents — were “responsible for any necessary travel arrangements to rejoin the ship.”

Keep up with The Post's coverage of the Norwegian Cruise debacle

• Eight Norwegian Cruise passengers, including a pregnant woman and an elderly man with a heart condition, were stranded on an African island without money and vital medications after the vessel left port without them.
• A spokesperson for the cruise line claimed the passengers were left on the island “on their own or with a private tour” and missed the “all-aboard time” by over an hour, according to the company.
• Americans Jill Campbell and her husband, Jay Campbell, said they are unsure whether they even want to resume the 20-day voyage after Norwegian Cruise Lines forgot about its “basic duty of care.”
• The eight passengers raced through seven different countries over a span of 48 hours to make it to Senegal, where the ship docked Tuesday morning,
• Doug and Violeta Sanders, a stranded Australian couple, have spoken out about their ordeal , saying it was “the worst experience of our lives.”
• Julie Lenkoff, 80,  suffered a stroke during an excursion on the cruise — and was left “alone” and “helpless” to find her way back to the US, according to her family.
• COLUMN: Cruise ship was right to ditch the late passengers in Africa

Check out The Post’s tips on what to do if you’re left stranded like the Norwegian Cruise passengers

As they scrambled to find a way back to the ship, working with the US Embassy in Angola, the Campbells had to shell out more than $5,000 in food, toiletries and hotels — as they were the only ones in the group that had a Visa credit card on their persons, they told WRAL.

The group finally reboarded the Norwegian Dawn Tuesday morning, but they hadn’t spoken directly with cruise officials, Gies said.

The Dawn is now expected to continue its 21-day African voyage through next Wednesday, when it will dock for the final time in Barcelona, Spain.

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A ghost pianist and color-changing cocktails: Inside Princess Cruises' hidden magic club

The pianist at a lounge on Princess Cruises’ new ship played the theme song from “Titanic” while guests sipped their cocktails.

It may seem like dark humor, but the musician is a ghost, after all. As the story goes, Isabella lives inside the space entertaining guests (she even takes requests).

In actuality, the instrument – which appeared to play itself – is part of Spellbound by Magic Castle, a new venue on the Sun Princess that combines dinner, drinks and magic. The speakeasy-like space was created in partnership with the Magic Castle , a legendary private club in Los Angeles.

Denise Saviss, the cruise line’s vice president for entertainment experience, said during a recent sailing that the Magic Castle has been a “well-protected secret.”

“As a members-only club, you can only attend by invitation, but they are keen to expand, and a partnership with us was a really great way to do that where we have a ton of international guests who may not ever get over to Hollywood and therefore it's not in reach,” Saviss said. 

USA TODAY got a preview of Spellbound during a cruise ahead of its opening next month. Here’s what guests can expect.

What is Spellbound like?

Guests will start the evening with dinner in the Horizons Dining Room, choosing from a menu not found elsewhere on board (our preview did not include the dinner portion). They will then be escorted through an inconspicuous black door off the ship’s Piazza into Spellbound’s small foyer. There, a voice on a speaker tells the story of the Larsen family, who opened the Magic Castle in 1963, for a few minutes.

We were prompted to say the magic words (“Open sesame”), and the fireplace in front of us moved aside to reveal a music room and the Parlor Bar, lined with art and artifacts curated with help from the Magic Castle. A pair of handcuffs used by famed escape artist Harry Houdini even hung on one wall.

Isabella and her companion, a white bird named The Professor, can be seen in a portrait in the music room. She is the cousin of another ghost, Irma, who lives at the Magic Castle in California.

“Irma never loved to travel, but Isabella did,” said Kerry Lovegrove, Princess’ director of entertainment experience. “She traveled probably one too many times across the Atlantic, and then all of a sudden she was lost at sea. So she suddenly found the Sun Princess being built in Monfalcone and thought she’d attach herself onto that ship.”

Isabella disappears from view when she’s ready to play. The Professor, meanwhile, moves over to a nearby birdcage to enjoy the music (I saw him swaying to “My Heart Will Go On” at one point).

Behind the bar, a library holds its own not-so-hidden treasures. I picked up a gold rotary phone and heard someone ask “How can I help?” before changing their mind and hanging up. Guests might also see books float and fall, according to Lovegrove.

Even the drinks appear enchanted. One cocktail I ordered, The Magician, featured butterfly pea tequila that turned from blue to purple as the server poured it into the glass (also containing mezcal, lime, grapefruit, serrano peppers and agave).

Spellbound hosts magic in the bar as well as its 30-seat theater. Before theater seating opened, Mark Gibson kept us glued to his card deck, at one point finding the card a fellow guest chose by cutting the deck with the assistance of a tiny plunger. Woody Aragon also used cards in the theater, including asking an audience member to call someone who wasn’t in the room to pick one. (Spoiler: he named their chosen card correctly.)

The Parlor Bar magician will stay on the ship for a couple of months at a time, and the magician performing in the theater will change every cruise or two, but all are vetted by the Magic Castle team.

When will Spellbound by Magic Castle open?

Spellbound will open April 8 and is now available to book. Guests must be at least 13 to enter and just like at the venue’s Hollywood namesake, there is a mandatory dress code (my invitation called for cocktail attire).

The cruise line also will host its second Magic Castle Conjurer’s Cruise themed sailing on Sun Princess in November.

How much does Spellbound cost?

The experience costs $149 per person, including dinner, entertainment and unlimited drinks. 

Spellbound will offer three theater shows a night and can accommodate a total of 90 guests (30 each night). Once they’re in the space, they can stay as long as they like (until it closes for the night). There are dinner seatings at 5, 7 and 9 p.m., and Spellbound is expected to close around midnight, though there is no hard closing time.

Best times to go on a cruise: We broke it down by region

Lovegrove said the venue serves as a new home base for magic, which already proved popular with Princess guests in other spaces on its ships. “If you love magicians, this is the spot for you.”

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Princess Cruises. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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