Planning a cruise trip involves multiple factors, including your destination, accommodation, dining options, entertainment, and the time of travel. All these elements contribute to answering the common question: “How much does a cruise cost?” This guide will help you get an idea about the cruise costs, helping you plan your cruise journey effectively.
Average Cruise Cost for Different Cruise Lines
The cost of a cruise varies significantly depending on your destination, the cruise line, and several other factors. While the prices mentioned here provide a general estimate, actual rates can vary based on:
- The cruise line you choose
- The time of year you’re traveling in
- The length of the cruise
- The type of cabin selected
Let’s see the average cost of a cruise to some of the popular destinations based on the cruise line you choose.
Carnival Cruise Line
| Destination | Carnival Cruise Line | |
| 4-Day Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
7-Day/7-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
|
| Caribbean | $344 | $594 |
| Mexico | $299 | $649 |
| Bahamas | $324 | $789 |
| Europe | N/A | $918 |
Disney Cruise Line
| Destination | Disney Cruise Line | |
| 4-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
7-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
|
| Caribbean | $1661 | $3011 |
| Mexico | $1872 | $3011 |
| Alaska | N/A | $2643 |
| Bahamas | $1530 | N/A |
| Europe | $2906 | $3193 |
Royal Caribbean
| Destination | Royal Caribbean | |
| 4-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
7-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
|
| Caribbean | $352 | $497 |
| Mexico | $354 | $655 |
| Bahamas | $387 | $648 |
| Europe | N/A | $851 |
Regent Seven Seas
| Destination | Regent Seven Seas |
| 7-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
|
| Caribbean | $4199 |
| Alaska | $4270 |
| Europe | $7899 |
MSC Cruises
| Destination | MSC Cruises | |
| 4-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
7-Day/7-Night Cruise Cost
(Starting Rates Per Person) |
|
| Caribbean & Bahamas | $230 | $402 |
| Alaska | N/A | $879 |
| Europe | $567 | $500 |
Key Factors Influencing Cruise Costs
Multiple factors affect the total cost of a cruise vacation. Knowing these factors in advance can help you make the right decision that aligns with your budget and travel preferences. Here are some key factors:
Cruise Line and Ship
Different cruise lines and ships offer different levels of luxury, amenities, and entertainment, which can directly impact the cost of your cruise trip. Luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises are known for their high-end offerings and correspondingly higher prices. Premium lines, such as Celebrity Cruises and Holland America, usually offer a balance of quality and cost.
Conversely, budget-friendly lines like Carnival and MSC Cruises often attract travelers with their more affordable starting fares.
Also Read: Carnival Cruise Tips: How to Save Money, Time, and Stress
Duration of the Cruise
Another major factor that affects the total cost of a cruise is its length. Cruises that last for a longer duration usually have a higher overall price than those with a shorter duration. In certain cases, the per-night cost can sometimes be lower for longer itineraries.
Cabin Selection
The cabin you choose can decide your cruise price. Inside cabins with no windows are the most budget-friendly option. Oceanview cabins that have a window or porthole come at a higher cost than inside cabins, while balcony cabins featuring a private balcony are significantly costlier than oceanview cabins.
The highest price tags are for suites that have the most luxurious and spacious accommodations. It can even cost up to ten times more than an interior cabin on the same sailing.
Time of Year
Your cruise cost can also depend on when you are planning your trip. During peak seasons such as summer and major holidays, due to higher demand, cruise costs are high. Shoulder seasons, which fall between the peak and off-peak periods (usually spring and fall), are often the best time as they offer pleasant weather and lower prices. Off-season times, i.e., winter and spring breaks, tend to be more expensive.
What’s Included in a Cruise Fare?
Dining
Depending on the cruise line you are traveling on, the meals that are available free of cost will vary. In some of the popular cruise lines, such as Princess, Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean, free meals are available at the main dining rooms, buffets, and select specialty venues.
Don’t forget to check the menu, as not all food items are complimentary.
Drinks
Cruise ship drinks such as tap water, select juices, iced tea, and regular coffee are usually included in your cruise fare. Some cruise lines, such as Disney Cruise Line, include soda, while select luxury cruise lines may offer wine as part of the fare.
You are permitted to bring certain drinks onboard, but each cruise line has its own strict policies.
Entertainment & Onboard Activities
Not all shows and entertainment come to you for free, but main theater performances and audience-participation shows are included in the cruise fare. You need to check with the cruise line to know about the free shows and entertainment.
Onboard activities such as trivia, big-screen movies, pool games, dance classes, and certain sports deck activities are all usually free on a cruise ship.
Fitness Center
Most cruise ships have a fitness center that is free for passengers. Some fitness classes are also free. Personality training sessions, specialty training fitness classes, and wellness seminars are available at additional costs.
Kids’ Clubs
Most cruise lines offer free supervised programs for kids and teens.
What Are the Additional Expenses?
When budgeting for your cruise, be aware of the common additional costs. Here are some:
- Gratuities and service fees
- Specialty dining
- Excursions and activities
- Beverage packages and internet
- Travel insurance
- Tips and strategies for saving money
If you want to make your cruise vacation more affordable, here are some strategies for you to use before and during the voyage.
Read in Detail: What Are the Add-on Costs for Cruises?
Book Early or Last Minute
Booking 6 to 12 months in advance will help you secure the best prices. Eary bookings come with additional perks, such as giving you a wider selection of cabin options, cabin upgrades, or onboard credits.
You can also save through last-minute bookings as there are chances of last-minute deals since cruise lines try to fill any remaining cabins. Regardless of when the initial booking is made, it’s a wise option to monitor prices afterward, as some cruise lines offer price adjustments or onboard credit if the fare drops before the final payment date.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
If you want to find more affordable rates, avoid peak season. It is not just about cruise prices; you can also avoid crows if you travel during the off-season or shoulder seasons.
Look for Package Deals
Some travel agencies and cruise lines offer bundled deals that include excursions, drink packages, or onboard credits. Discounts may also be available to specific groups, such as military personnel, seniors, teachers, or solo travelers.
Getting help from a travel agent will be useful as they may have access to group rates and exclusive deals not available to the general public.
Be Mindful of Extras
Set a budget for onboard expenses like dining upgrades, excursions, and gratuities. Having a plan about this in advance will help you know your limits and will help you avoid unexpected costs.
