The True Cost of a Cheap Cruise
A low cruise fare is the start of the price, not the end of it. Here is how to work out what a cheap cruise will really cost before you compare it with another.
Build the Real Total
| Item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Cruise fare | Per person, two sharing; fare type and deposit terms |
| Taxes, fees and port expenses | Shown separately by many lines; added per person |
| Gratuities | Added daily on many mainstream lines, included on some luxury lines |
| Getting to the port | Flights, hotel the night before, parking or transfers |
| Onboard spending | Drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, excursions |
| Travel insurance | Strongly advised on any cruise |
Reading the Price Line by Line
Cruise prices in the U.S. are usually advertised per person, based on two people sharing a cabin. Taxes, fees and port expenses — charges connected with the ports and the government — are often listed separately and added when you book, so two fares that look alike can end up different once those are included. Gratuities on most mainstream lines are charged per guest per day on board, while several luxury lines include them. Third and fourth guests in the same cabin often pay a lower fare, and solo travellers usually pay a single supplement. Ask for a quote that spells out each of these, and compare like with like.
When a Cheap Fare Costs More
- A fare from a faraway port, when another line sails from a port you can drive to.
- A non-refundable deposit fare when your plans might change.
- A low fare on a line where you would buy many extras, compared with a more inclusive line.
- A solo traveller paying a single supplement on a per-person fare.
Comparing lines? Cruise Compares explains how to compare total costs fairly, and Cruising for Less tracks live offers.
A Simple Comparison Worksheet
When you are choosing between two cheap cruises, write down the same lines for each and fill them in honestly:
- Fare for everyone in the cabin, including any third or fourth guest.
- Taxes, fees and port expenses, if shown separately.
- Gratuities for the number of nights and guests, unless included.
- Travel to and from the port: flights, fuel, parking, transfers, a hotel night.
- What you would spend on board each day on drinks, dining, Wi-Fi and activities.
- Excursions you would actually book.
- Travel insurance.
Add each column. The lower total, not the lower fare, is the cheaper cruise. If the totals are close, choose the ship you would enjoy more.
Get a Quote That Shows the Total
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will price the whole trip, not just the fare.
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