Part of the fun of cruising is the chance to enjoy extras on board, but not all of them are worth it. There are cruise ship purchases that aren’t worth the money, tempting travelers with convenience or exclusivity yet often leaving them disappointed. From overpriced souvenirs to packages that sound better than they actually are, some add-ons simply don’t deliver the value they promise. Knowing which ones to skip can save cash for experiences that truly enhance the trip.
With these examples, it becomes easier to spot the splurges that aren’t necessary and focus on what really makes a cruise memorable. Whether it’s dining upgrades, drink packages, or spa treatments, being selective can help stretch a travel budget while still enjoying everything the ship has to offer. Explore the purchases most likely to disappoint and see which ones seasoned cruisers recommend avoiding, so the next voyage feels rewarding in all the right ways.
Drink Packages
Drink packages can sound like a good deal, but unless you consume a high number of beverages daily, you may not get your money’s worth. These packages often include soft drinks, specialty coffees, and alcoholic beverages, but the daily cost can be steep. Some packages also have restrictions, such as limits on premium brands or the number of drinks per day. If you’re not sure how much you’ll drink, it may be cheaper to pay for beverages individually. Checking the cruise’s rules and doing a quick cost comparison before buying can help you avoid overspending.
Specialty Dining Every Night
Specialty restaurants onboard offer unique menus and settings, but booking them every night can significantly increase your expenses. The main dining room and buffet already include well-prepared meals as part of your fare. While it’s fun to try a few specialty options during your trip, making them your default dinner choice can be costly. Consider reserving one or two nights for special meals and enjoying the included dining the rest of the time. This balance allows you to experience the variety without overspending.
Shore Excursions Booked Through the Cruise Line
Booking excursions directly with the cruise line ensures convenience and a guarantee that the ship will wait if you’re delayed, but these tours often come at a premium price. Independent tour operators at each port may offer the same or similar experiences for less. Doing a little research before your trip can help you find reputable local guides with smaller group sizes and more flexible itineraries. If you value the cruise line’s guarantees, you might still book select excursions onboard but mix in independent ones to save money.
Wi-Fi Packages
Internet access on cruise ships is often expensive and may have slower speeds compared to what you’re used to on land. Wi-Fi packages can quickly add up, especially if purchased for the entire cruise. Many travelers choose to disconnect during their trip and only use free internet at port cafes or public areas. If you need connectivity, consider buying smaller packages for essential use or waiting for onboard specials. Planning your online time wisely can help you stay connected without overspending.
Photography Packages
Cruise photographers are stationed around the ship and at ports to capture memories, but buying the full package can be costly. While it’s tempting to collect every photo, many passengers find they only love a few shots. Purchasing individual prints or digital copies of your favorites can be more budget-friendly. Another option is to take your own pictures using a good phone or camera. This way, you still preserve special moments while avoiding a large photography bill at the end of your trip.
Spa Treatments at Sea
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Cruise ship spas often advertise relaxing massages, facials, and beauty services, but these treatments can be much more expensive than similar options on land. While the onboard spa may have skilled therapists and a peaceful atmosphere, many travelers find the cost hard to justify. Prices can be inflated due to limited competition and the convenience factor. If you enjoy spa services, consider treating yourself to one or two special sessions instead of booking multiple appointments. You might also look for spa discounts offered during port days, which can sometimes reduce costs significantly.
Casino Spending
The onboard casino can be an exciting place to pass time, but without careful limits, it can quickly drain your budget. Cruise ship casinos operate much like those on land, with games designed to favor the house. The odds are not in your favor, and chasing losses can lead to spending more than planned. If you choose to play, set a strict budget and stick to it. Treat any potential winnings as a bonus rather than relying on them. For many, the experience is more about entertainment than actual profit.
Branded Merchandise
Cruise lines often sell logo-branded clothing, mugs, and souvenirs, but these items tend to be overpriced compared to similar products found elsewhere. While it might be tempting to grab a keepsake featuring your ship’s name, you can often find more affordable and distinctive mementos at port markets or online after your trip. If you do want something specific, wait until the last days of your cruise, when some gift shops offer clearance sales. This way, you still take home a souvenir without paying premium prices.
Laundry Services
Cruise ship laundry services can be surprisingly costly, especially if you send clothing out regularly. While convenient, the per-piece charges can quickly add up. Many travelers pack enough clothes for the entire trip or use self-service laundromats if available onboard, which are much cheaper. Another option is doing small loads by hand in your cabin’s sink and hanging them to dry. Bringing travel-sized detergent can help you freshen up clothing mid-trip without a large expense, making it easy to save this money for other activities.
Cabin Upgrades After Boarding
While upgrading to a larger or better-located cabin might sound appealing, last-minute upgrades offered onboard are often priced higher than if you’d booked them in advance. Cruise lines know that passengers are already in vacation mode and may be willing to splurge, so they use this opportunity to boost revenue. If you truly want a bigger cabin or a balcony, booking it ahead of time usually gets you a better deal. Waiting until boarding can mean spending more money for the same upgrade.
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