Cruises are designed to make everything feel easy—and tempting. From the moment you step onboard, you’re surrounded by upgrades, packages, and “limited-time” offers that promise to elevate your vacation. And while some extras can be worth the splurge, others are cleverly marketed add-ons that don’t deliver enough value for the price.
Before you start swiping your card at sea, it’s worth knowing which cruise purchases not worth it might sound fun in theory but often leave travelers feeling like they overpaid.
Unlimited Drink Packages
Unlimited drink packages are one of the most heavily promoted cruise add-ons, and they can seem like a great way to let loose without worrying about individual prices. However, these packages are often expensive on a per-day basis, and most travelers don’t end up consuming enough drinks to break even—especially on port days when they’re off the ship for hours. Factoring in early mornings, excursions, and days when you simply don’t feel like drinking, the cost can quickly outweigh the benefit.
Cruise Wi-Fi Packages
Staying connected at sea sounds convenient, but cruise Wi-Fi packages are notoriously slow and overpriced. Even premium tiers can struggle with basic tasks like streaming or video calls, and connection drops are common. For travelers hoping to scroll social media or check emails occasionally, the experience can be frustrating rather than helpful. Unless you absolutely need internet access for work or emergencies, unplugging for a few days is often the better—and cheaper—option.
Professional Photo Packages
Cruise ships make it easy to rack up photo opportunities, with photographers stationed at dinners, ports, and scenic backdrops. While the idea of capturing polished vacation memories is appealing, the packages themselves can be surprisingly expensive. Many travelers end up liking only a handful of photos, making the bundled deals feel excessive. In the age of high-quality smartphone cameras, you can often get equally memorable shots without the added cost.
Shore Excursions Booked Through the Cruise Line
Booking excursions through the cruise line offers convenience and peace of mind, but it usually comes at a premium. These tours are often significantly marked up compared to similar options offered by local operators. While the added security of booking through the cruise line may be worth it for some, travelers willing to do a bit of research can often find comparable experiences at a lower price — and sometimes with smaller, more personalized groups.
Spa Treatments
A spa day at sea sounds like the ultimate indulgence, but onboard treatments tend to come with inflated prices. Massages, facials, and other services can cost far more than what you’d pay at a high-end spa on land. On top of that, many guests report aggressive upselling of products and add-ons during their appointments, which can drive the final bill even higher. For budget-conscious travelers, it’s often better to save spa treatments for before or after the cruise.
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Specialty Dining Packages
Cruise lines often promote specialty dining as a must-try upgrade, but the reality is that most ships already include a wide range of high-quality food options in the base fare. While one specialty meal can be a fun experience, purchasing a full dining package may be overkill for many travelers. Between buffet options, main dining rooms, and casual eateries, it’s easy to enjoy great meals without paying extra every night.
Art Auctions
Art auctions onboard are marketed as exciting, exclusive events where you can score unique pieces. In reality, prices are often inflated, and the “deals” may not be as good as they seem. The high-energy environment and complimentary drinks can make it easier to spend impulsively. Unless you’re a seasoned art buyer who has done prior research, these auctions are more about entertainment than value.
Casino Credits or Prepaid Gambling Packages
Preloading money for the onboard casino might seem like a convenient way to budget your spending, but it can actually have the opposite effect. Having funds readily available often encourages more gambling, making it easier to lose track of how much you’re spending. These packages are designed to keep you playing longer, not necessarily to help you save money.
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Priority Boarding or VIP Access Upgrades
The promise of skipping lines and getting onboard faster can be tempting, especially after a long travel day. However, the actual time saved is often minimal, and standard boarding processes are usually efficient enough. Considering that the ship departs at a set time regardless, paying extra for a slightly earlier entry rarely makes a meaningful difference in your overall experience.
Luggage Delivery Services
Having your luggage delivered directly to your cabin or even shipped ahead to your destination sounds incredibly convenient. However, these services often come with a hefty price tag that doesn’t justify the relatively small benefit. For most travelers, managing their own bags—especially with rolling luggage—is simple enough and far more cost-effective.
More From Cheapism
- 7 Things You Should Never Buy a Cruise Ship — Cruise fares may cover the basics, but overpriced add-ons like drinks, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, excursions, and premium dining can make your vacation cost far more than expected.
- 17 Cruise Costs You Might Not See Coming — Even when a cruise looks affordable upfront, extra charges like port fees, drink packages, gratuities, premium coffee, and specialty dining can quietly drive up the final bill.
- 23 Things You Should Avoid Doing on a Cruise, According to Experts — Common mistakes like boarding late, skipping the muster drill, or ignoring cruise rules can quickly turn a relaxing trip into a stressful and expensive mess.
