How Much Does a Cruise Really Cost? A First-Time Cruiser Budget Breakdown
How Much Does a Cruise Really Cost? A First-Time Cruiser Budget Breakdown
One of the first things new cruisers notice is how confusing cruise pricing can be. You’ll see ads for a “$499 cruise,” but once you start planning, the final number feels very different.
So how much does a cruise really cost?
The honest answer: it depends on more than just the cruise fare. A cruise can be an incredible value, but only if you understand what’s included, what’s extra, and how to budget realistically.
This guide breaks down every major cost for first-time cruisers, so there are no surprises when it’s time to pay.
👉 Compare cruise prices, ports, and sailing dates using Expedia’s cruise search.
1. Cruise Fare: The Base Price You See Advertised
The cruise fare is the starting point. It typically includes:
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Your cabin accommodation
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Most meals in main dining rooms and buffets
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Basic onboard entertainment (shows, live music, activities)
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Use of pools, gyms, and public areas
Typical first-time cruise fares (per person):
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3–4 night cruise: $300–$700
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7-night cruise: $600–$1,500
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10+ night cruise: $1,500–$3,000+
Prices vary based on:
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Cabin type (interior, oceanview, balcony, suite)
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Cruise line and ship
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Time of year
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How early or late you book
💡 Important: Cruise fares are usually shown per person, based on double occupancy.
2. Taxes, Port Fees & Government Charges
These are mandatory and added after the advertised fare.
They typically range from:
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$100–$300 per person
You can’t avoid these fees, but they should always be clearly listed before checkout.
3. Gratuities (Service Charges)
Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your onboard account.
Typical gratuity rates:
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$14–$20 per person, per day
For a 7-night cruise, that’s roughly:
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$100–$140 per person
These cover:
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Cabin steward
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Dining room service
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Behind-the-scenes staff
Some cruise lines allow prepaying gratuities; others add them daily.
4. Hidden Cruise Costs First-Time Cruisers Miss
Even when your cruise fare looks affordable, there are a few common costs that surprise first-time cruisers. These aren’t scams — just things that aren’t always obvious when booking.
- Gratuities (daily service charges if not prepaid)
- Specialty dining fees
- Wi-Fi packages
- Excursions in port
- Spa services
- Drinks beyond basic beverages
These extras don’t mean cruising is expensive — they just need to be planned for.
5. Onboard Expenses You Can Control (And Ones You Can’t)
One of the biggest myths about cruising is that everything costs extra. In reality, many onboard expenses are optional — and easy to control with a little planning.
Easy to control
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Alcohol packages or pay-per-drink
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Specialty dining
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Paid activities
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Souvenirs
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Wi-Fi usage
Harder to avoid
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Gratuities (unless prepaid)
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Port fees
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Required transfers in some ports
6. Drinks: Packages vs Pay-As-You-Go
Drinks are one of the biggest budget variables for first-time cruisers.
What’s usually included:
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Water
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Regular coffee and tea
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Juice at breakfast
What costs extra:
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Alcohol
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Soda
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Specialty coffees
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Mocktails and premium juices
Typical drink prices:
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Cocktails: $10–$15
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Beer: $7–$9
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Wine by the glass: $9–$14
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Soda: $3–$4
Drink packages usually cost:
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$60–$100 per person, per day
💡 If you don’t drink much, paying per drink is often cheaper than a package.
7. Shore Excursions
Excursions are optional, but many first-time cruisers budget for at least one or two.
Typical costs:
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$50–$100 for simple tours
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$100–$250+ for premium or adventure excursions
You can:
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Book through the cruise line (convenient, more expensive)
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Book independently (cheaper, but requires planning)
8. Specialty Dining
Most food is included, but specialty restaurants cost extra.
Typical prices:
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$20–$60 per person, depending on venue
Many cruisers treat this as an occasional splurge rather than a nightly expense.
9. Internet, Photos & Onboard Extras
Optional extras that can quietly add up:
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Wi-Fi packages: $15–$30 per day
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Professional photos: $20–$40 per photo
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Spa services: $100–$300+
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Casino spending, bingo, shopping: varies
These are completely optional but worth budgeting for if you plan to indulge.
Over the Door Shoe Organizer - Cruise Essentials for Cabin
10. Getting to the Port
First-time cruisers often forget to budget for travel to the departure port.
Possible costs:
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Flights
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Hotel night before the cruise
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Airport transfers or parking
Depending on location, this can add:
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$200–$800+ per person
11. So… What Does a Cruise Really Cost?
Here’s a realistic 7-night cruise budget per person:
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Cruise fare: $900
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Taxes & fees: $150
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Gratuities: $120
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Drinks & extras: $200
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One excursion: $100
Many first-time cruisers fall somewhere in this range.
12. How to Save Money on Your First Cruise
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Book early or watch for price drops
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Choose interior or oceanview cabins
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Skip drink packages if you don’t drink much
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Limit specialty dining
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Explore ports independently
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Cruise during shoulder seasons
A cruise can be one of the best value vacations, especially when you know what to expect.
Final Thoughts
Cruises aren’t “cheap,” but they are predictable once you understand the full cost. With most meals, lodging, and entertainment included, cruises often deliver better value than land-based vacations — especially for first-time travelers.
Knowing the real numbers upfront lets you relax, enjoy the experience, and avoid surprise charges along the way.
👉 Explore current cruise deals on Expedia.
