A cruise fare is neither truly «all-inclusive» nor «just a room». Your accommodation, main dining and onboard entertainment are almost always covered, while drinks, the spa and shore excursions are usually charged on top. It pays to understand the split before you sail, not when the final folio arrives.
Typically included: your cabin, main dining, shows and pools. Usually extra: drinks, spa, à la carte restaurants, shore excursions, gratuities, internet and laundry. The exact mix depends on the cruise line and fare, and it's always stated in your confirmation. You can review your cruise and its terms in My bookings.
01 / IncludedWhat the fare almost always covers
On most lines the base cruise fare covers the voyage itself: your cabin in the chosen category, main dining in the principal restaurants and buffet, the ship's entertainment and access to the pools. That alone is enough to enjoy the whole sailing comfortably, with little need to spend extra on board.
- Cabin — accommodation in your chosen category: inside, oceanview, balcony or suite.
- Main dining — the principal restaurants and the buffet, usually breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
- Entertainment & shows — evening performances, live music, pools, sports areas and kids' clubs.
- Basic drinks — usually water, tea, drip coffee and juice during main dining hours.
02 / ExtrasWhat you usually pay extra for on board
Onboard charges are typically for «on-demand» services. The most common line item is drinks: alcohol, speciality coffee, sodas and cocktails are almost always outside the base fare, which is why many lines sell drink packages. The same goes for the spa, speciality restaurants, shore excursions and connectivity.
03 / Fare typesWhy the contents depend on the line and fare
There is no single standard: one line positions itself as premium, with drinks and excursions «in the fare», while another sells a lean base fare and earns from the extras. So look at the specific fare, not just the brand — your booking spells out exactly what's included.
- Base fare — cabin, dining, entertainment; nearly everything else is extra.
- Bundled fare — base plus add-ons such as drinks, Wi-Fi or gratuities.
- Premium / «all-inclusive» — most things are in the price, with far fewer extras.
04 / CheckHow to see what your cruise actually includes
Open your booking
Go to My bookings and select your cruise — the fare and terms are listed there.
Read what the fare covers
Look for the «included» and «paid separately» lines: dining, drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, excursions.
Decide on packages in advance
Drink packages, Wi-Fi and excursions are often cheaper before you sail than when bought on board.
Ask us if anything is unclear
Message @sales_travel_bot or call 8 800 1000-646 — we'll help you make sense of it.
05 / FAQFrequently asked questions
Is food free on a cruise?
Main dining — the principal restaurants and buffet — is usually included in the fare. Speciality à la carte restaurants and many drinks are normally charged separately.
Are drinks included in the cruise fare?
Usually not: water, tea and basic coffee are typically available, but alcohol, cocktails and speciality coffee cost extra. Many lines sell drink packages; check your fare's terms.
Do I have to pay gratuities separately?
Often a service charge is added to your onboard account automatically, per day. Sometimes you can pre-pay it together with the fare. Check your booking terms for the exact rules.
Are shore excursions part of the cruise?
Usually not — shore excursions are paid separately, though exploring a port on your own is free. On premium fares some excursions may already be included.