Value
Cruising represents unbeatable value for money, if you were to compare a land based holiday of a similar standard to the cruise lines you could be saving as much as 25%.
Remember there is so much more included all in the price of a cruise than what you get in a land based holiday, Just imagine paying for flights to see all the destination in one holiday.
What's included
Accommodations.
All cabins come with twin beds that can be converted to a queen size bed; Cabins are compact but are comfortable and many can take a 3rd or 4th person. All cabins will have an en-suite bathroom with shower or a bathtub.
Meals.
Breakfast, lunch dinner and snacks are included in the main restaurants and buffets. There are also special dining events like afternoon tea and midnight buffets and again these are included in your price. However some cruise lines now have alternative dining in more intimate restaurants and these normally come with a cover charge, we recommended you book these restaurants at the start of the cruise as they fill up fast.
Entertainment.
Shows, comedians, nightclubs and all evening entertainment are included as well as most of the facilities such as the pool, sauna, hot tubs, fitness rooms, tennis and basketball courts. Some facilities, such as the spa facilities incur a fee.
The Cruise Price
The Cruise price you see you see is not always the total amount that you will pay, there are some factors that will adjust the prices accordingly: These maybe as follows:
Cabin occupancy: Cruise prices advertised are per person and based on two people sharing the cabin. If you are travelling as a solo passenger you may still be expected to full pay the price as if the cabin was occupied by two people. If there is a third person or fourth person in the cabin, then the average price falls per person as there are reductions offered for the 3rd and 4th passengers that occupy a cabin.
Taxes / fees: This amount is usually not more than 5%, but may not be included in the advertised price although will be included in the final costing before booking.
Fuel surcharge: Many cruise lines are now charging an additional £5 to £9 per person, per day to cover the increased cost of fuel.
What's not included
Tipping / Gratuities.
In general, budget in £5-£7 per person, per day for gratuities for your waiters, cabin stewards, etc. You won't need to leave this on the dinner table each night; it's usually handled on the last night of the cruise. Indeed, many cruises now automate the process so you don't have to worry about bringing large amounts of cash onboard.
Bar drinks.
Alcohol, soft drinks and specialty coffees (lattes, frappes, etc.) are not included. Prices are comparable to those on land.
Excursions.
You can always get off at the ports and look around on your own. However, many people like to join organised excursions for tours or outdoor activities like snorkelling or parasailing. These can be booked through the cruise line or through third-party vendors.
The Spa / Beauty Salon.
If you like, you can have a massage, haircut, or personal training session onboard. Prices are similar to high-end spas in large cities.
Exceptions
The above information is based on major cruise
