As soon as you set foot on a cruise ship, you’ve effectively marooned yourself on a budget-busting island. Sure, your food might be included, but can you resist the tropical cocktails, the enticing room upgrades, or the specialty dining options? Few, besides the thriftiest and most dedicated budgeters, can. Still, it doesn’t hurt to try, which is why we’ve come up with seven things you should never buy on a cruise.
Drinks
If you want to booze on a budget, you’ve only got one option: Smuggle your alcohol onboard in a flask disguised as a bottle of sunscreen (but you didn’t hear that from us). Otherwise, you’ll either have to buy your drinks individually (expensive) or opt for an all-inclusive drinks package (also expensive). And remember: You can have fun without drinking!
Spa Treatments
Pamper yourself at the on-shore spa back in your hometown, not on some overpriced cruise. Cruise spa treatments are wildly expensive, and veteran cruisers say that the employees are often pushy about upgrades. Do you really want to listen to a sales pitch while at the spa?
Toiletries
Make a list of essentials and check it twice before you board, because the prices for basic hygiene products on cruises are insane. As a last resort, you can visit a pharmacy or drug store at port.
Manicures and Pedicures
So you want picture-perfect nails on vacation? No judgment. Just get them done before boarding or at port, or you’ll risk spending an arm and a leg. And even if the ship’s manicurist has their sea legs, there’s no guarantee that they won’t screw up once the waters get choppy.
Excursions
Don’t waste your money on the cruise ship’s pre-planned excursions. Either avoid them altogether or plan your own activities with third-party companies. It’s not as overwhelming as it sounds. Just search for the location plus “excursions,” and you should find some promising offerings.
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Wi-Fi
We know that cruising isn’t camping, but still, can’t you live without TikTok and Instagram for a few days? If the answer is yes, then you might save a boatload of cash, as some cruise ships charge per device. Plus, longtime cruisers say that you can usually find free Wi-Fi at an onboard bar or shop.
Premium Foods
Your expensive cruise ship ticket includes food from the buffet — often quite good! — so don’t be tempted by so-called premium dining options.
More Cruise Tips From Cheapism
- 23 Things That You Should Never Do on a Cruise — From the peril of reckless selfies to not missing the muster drill, cruise ship etiquette extends far beyond the buffet line.
- 11 Things You’ll Regret Not Packing for a Cruise — Whether it’s your first cruise or you’re a seasoned traveler, there are some essentials you’ll want to make sure you pack for a successful (and pleasant) voyage.
- 10 Things You Should Never Eat on a Cruise — There’s no shame in indulging a bit when you’re out at sea, but there are plenty of other reasons to stay away from certain foods, from safety concerns to just plain terrible quality.
