Are you going on a cruise? While cruises are marketed as all-inclusive vacations, there are still plenty of extras you’ll need to budget for. This can lead to confusion among cruisers about what is actually included and what is an extra charge, causing them to miss out on free cruise perks.
Free Port Shuttles
Some cruise lines offer complimentary port shuttles that take you from the cruise dock to downtown. This means you can explore the cruise port on your own without spending extra money on shore excursions.
Make sure to check with the cruise shore excursion staff to find out if any free port shuttles are available, so you can plan accordingly. Even if free shuttles aren’t offered, they might offer port shuttles for a small fee, which can be significantly cheaper than booking a shore excursion through the cruise line.
Spa Sauna and Lounge
Many budget-conscious cruisers tend to avoid the spa, assuming that everything at the spa are expensive and cost extra. However, they don’t realize that on most cruise ships, access to the spa sauna is free for all passengers. Simply walk into the spa bathroom and enjoy the sauna at no charge. You can also relax in the spa lounge for free. It’s a luxurious way to relax without spending a dime.
Free Texting
Many cruise passengers don’t realize that they can text for free without needing to subscribe to the cruise’s WiFi. By simply downloading the cruise app, you’ll usually find a messaging feature that allows you to text other passengers onboard. Just connect to the ship’s free hotspot, and you can text for free! Check out 9 Common Money Mistakes You’ll Regret Making on Your Cruise
Behind the Scenes Tour
Many cruise ships offer free behind the scenes tour that cruisers miss out on. These behind the scenes tours often take place on sea days and will be listed on the daily planner. Check out 12 Cruise Mistakes that Will Ruin Your Sea Days
Fitness Classes
Many cruisers skip fitness classes on cruise ships because they believe there’s a fee for every class. But the truth is that some fitness classes, like stretching and yoga sessions, are actually free. Check out The Worst Months to Go on a Cruise
Loyalty Perks
Many cruisers miss out on free perks that come with their loyalty status. It’s surprising how many cruise passengers are unaware that they can enjoy complimentary amenities such as free laundry services, discounts, and even free drinks on board.
Most cruise lines don’t make it a priority to remind you of all the benefits you’ve earned, it’s up to you to ask and find out what perks are free. So, before you go on your cruise, take some time to do your research and see what free perks you’re entitled to enjoy during your cruise. Check out What are the Most Coveted Loyalty Perks on a Cruise?
Themed Buffet
Many cruisers miss out on really nice themed buffets because they often stick to the main dining room and don’t bother checking the buffet. However, some cruise lines have special themes like Oktoberfest and Sushi nights, which are sometimes not well promoted. So, unless you ask or go up to the buffet to check, you wouldn’t know about it.
If you have early seating, I suggest passing by the buffet after the evening show to check to see what’s being served. That way you can have both- dinner in the main dining room and a buffet snack afterward! Check out 13 Things First Time Cruisers Find Most Surprising About Cruise Buffets
Room Service
Cruise lines these days charge a room service fee ranging from $8 to $10 per order or charges an a la carte fee. Many cruisers see this fee and quickly decide against ordering room service. However, what they don’t realize is that continental breakfast room service remains free!
This means you can enjoy coffee, tea, juices, croissants, muffins, yogurt, cereal, and fresh fruit delivered right to your room in the morning! Check out 13 Best Breakfast Foods at the Cruise Buffet
Free Drinks
Many cruisers assume that the only complimentary beverage available in the main dining room is water. It’s always a good idea to ask your waiter, since often times lemonade and iced tea are free. Sometimes juices like apple juice are also free. Don’t be afraid to ask- find out what is free. Check out 10 Things People Forget To Do Before Disembarking the Cruise Ship
Free Champagne
Seasoned cruisers know to go to the art auction to get free champagne. The best part is you don’t need to buy art to get free champagne, just show up and enjoy the art auction while sipping on bubbly. Check out 10 Ways to Score Free Champagne at a Cruise (How to Get Free Drinks!)
Movies Under the Stars
Some cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, have movies under the stars. These outdoor movie nights are really nice where cruise staff set up comfortable lounge chairs, complete with cozy blankets and popcorn, so you can enjoy the film alfresco. The best part is that these movie screenings come at no extra cost. Check out 6 Free Cruise Activities on Princess Cruises that You Need to Know About
Café Food
Many cruisers mistakenly believe that everything at the café comes with an extra charge. While it’s true that specialty coffees like cappuccinos and americanos cost extra, what many don’t realize is that on some cruise ships, the food at these cafés is actually complimentary. This can include treats like tea sandwiches, cookies, and pastries. Check out 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise