Now that you have selected the paradise filled location you want to cruise to, it's time to build the amenities for an all-inclusive vacation. If you like the idea of knowing your total cruise bill (as much as possible) up front, here are tips for how to build an all-inclusive cruise.
Included in your cruise fare:
- Multiple entertainment options to choose from for every hour you are on board the ship.
- A variety of meals, with many locations to eat; such as pool side, buffet, main dining and room service.
- Beverages such as water, tea, lemonade, coffee, and breakfast juice (orange juice, apple juice, etc.)
Pre-purchase beverage packages such as sodas, specialty coffees, mocktails (without alcohol) or even cocktails, mixed drinks or beer. Most cruise lines offer a variety of beverage options to help start your relaxing vacation.
Many cruise lines offer beverage packages in the cruise fare, or as promotional items when booking your cruise. When you book a select Norwegian Cruise, you can book a “Free At Sea” fare and receive a beverage package. Celebrity offers the “Go Big, Bigger or Best” promotion that includes a beverage package included in your promotion. Princess offers promotional fares that include a beverage package for guests 21 and over.
Pre-pay your gratuities (otherwise called tips or service fees) prior to your vacation. This will cover the base per day gratuities allotted for select staff. Although this covers the per person per day gratuities for select staff, you will still have the option to add additional tips for over and above service. Be on the look out for promotions that include gratuities in the price of your cruise!
Pre-pay and book shore excursions and other activities when at port. Nothing is worse than having your heart set on a particular excursion only to find it is sold out. The earlier you can book in-demand venues the better.
Some cruise lines will offer special events (cooking classes, dance classes, etc.) that would need to be booked prior to attending. Most have limited space and can be an additional fee.
Specialty dining reservations can be made and prepaid for prior to sailing. Specialty dining restaurants vary by ship but can include steak houses, Japanese steak houses, BBQ restaurants, or world famous chef's such as Jamie Oliver on Royal Caribbean ships and Emeril Lagasse or Guy Fieri on Carnival ships.
Spa appointments booked in advance will ensure that you get your preferred day and times. Book your soothing massage, hot stones, relaxation on a heated tile lounger, or a steamy sauna to take you away while sailing the seas.
Internet packages allow you to still feel close to family and friend on land. By pre-purchasing this package you will get a cheaper rate. Some cruise lines such as Norwegian, Celebrity, Virgin Voyages, and Princess have packages that include Wi-Fi in the price of your cruise.