Cruise prices and how to understand

Are you planning to go for a cruise holiday but not sure of the costs? Do you know what services are included in price and whar for you will have to pay some extras? Here’s a guide to help you understand the various types of cruise costs.

Basic costs

The basic cost of your cruise holiday will include the following services:

Accommodation

Number of days the cruise will last

Onboard facilities and entertainment

Onboard meals

Other on board services such as using the gym or pool

Taxes and fees

As your ship lands on different shores and ports, the port authorities will issue taxes and fees. These taxes are not covered as part of your cruise package and you will need to pay as and when you arrive at a new port. These include the cost of docking and using the various services offered by a particular port. Certain ports also issue “head tax” on cruise travelers as a means of improving the facilities of the port.

Airfare charges

This is an option that you could choose- you could either book your air tickets to the embarkation destination on your own or get your cruise line to include it in the total cost. When a cruise line adds in the airfare, you will be provided with many services such as airport pick up and drop as well as baggage handling. These added services might also be charged.

You could also choose to spend your cruise holiday either in a suite or a mini suite- these could cost you more than a standard cabin. You need to do your research before booking your mini suite as these could very well be as good as a standard cabin along with a balcony.

When you book a suite, you will be charged pretty heavily for it for the ample space that you will get. Most cruise lines usually offer luxurious suites that come with an independent sitting area, and a separate sleeping space. Some of these suites also come with large enough bathrooms with modern amenities.

Insurance policies

Your medical insurance may not cover any possible damages that you might experience when on your cruise holidays as you will be traveling to other parts of the world, but you could opt for cancellation insurance that would cover most damages in case of emergency situations. It is important to note that all cruise lines may not offer the same kind of cancellation policies to cover any possible loss or damage.

Misleading cruise ads

Sometimes you might catch an attractive cruise offer on the newspaper that you will be unable to resist. What is important to note here is that all cruise ads may not be as promising as they sound; at times the cost might just be of the lowest accommodation found in the cruise ship- something that you may not want. When you actually get in touch with the cruise line, you might be surprised at a completely different price range for a decent accommodation. There are also extra charges such as port fees and added taxes that may not appear in the cruise ad. It is best to check with different cruise lines about the “actual” cost that includes every other service and facility before making a final purchase.

Lower costs don’t always mean a great experience

You may be getting a great deal for an inside cabin on a cruise ship, but there are high chances that you may not have a good time. An inside cabin means no windows and views of the ocean. If you pay slightly more, you can actually enjoy a cabin with an ocean view. Paying less and not getting a good deal is definitely not a good option as the main purpose of going for a cruise is to thoroughly enjoy yourself and make the best of the beautiful surroundings.

An inside cabin is not very desirable unless your budget is very limited. Moreover when you spend your holiday in an inside cabin, you don’t have an idea of where you are and what the outside world is like. An outside cabin is ideal for an enjoyable cruise holiday. What would be even better, if your budget allows it, is a stateroom with a verandah where you can relax and have a splendid cruise experience.

Extra costs

Once you board a cruise ship, you need to be ready to pay for drinks, food, tips, as well as using on board facilities such as email, dry cleaning, etc.

Going for a cruise can be fun and exciting given that you have a clear idea of how much you might need to spend.