There are things I never pay full price for when I go on a cruise. Why spend extra when I know I can get them on sale—or even for free? The key is knowing what’s worth paying full price for and when to hold out for a discount. Here’s a guide to help you cruise smarter and save money on your next vacation.
Specialty Dining
I never pay full price for specialty dining on a cruise. Cruise lines frequently offer promotions and discounts to fill tables at their specialty restaurants. There are two main ways to get a better deal. You can buy specialty dining packages in advance on the cruise website, where they’re discounted, or wait until you’re onboard to take advantage of special offers.
It’s common for staff to promote these restaurants with onboard discounts or bundled deals, so there’s no need to rush. Patience pays off—don’t buy specialty dining at full price! Here is a photo of Crown Grill, one of the specialty restaurants on Princess Cruise.
Spa Services
I never pay full price for spa treatments on a cruise when I know there will be discounts on port days! On every cruise I’ve been on, the spa offers special promotions on port days to encourage passengers to book appointments while the ship is docked. These deals often include discounted packages or bundled treatments. Instead of paying full price, keep an eye on the daily planner for these port day offers to be announced.
Wi-Fi Packages
Wi-Fi packages on cruises can be pricey. In order to get the best price on Wi-Fi packages, buy it before you board the cruise ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise discounts on internet plans, so it’s a good idea to book early.
Otherwise, if you’re on a port heavy itinerary, you can wait until you get to the port to get internet access because most cruise terminals have free WiFi. Plus, many cruise ships offer free texting on their cruise app without subscribing to their paid WiFi.
Cruise Photos
Cruise photos are notoriously expensive, so I never pay full price. I usually take advantage of the cruise photo discount that comes as a cruise loyalty perk or buy a photo package before boarding the cruise ship. They are always running pre-cruise photo package discounts.
Wine
I never buy wine onboard when I know I can bring my own for free! Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring a bottle of wine or champagne onboard on embarkation day. There is no corkage fee if you enjoy your wine in your cabin. Personally, I like to pour a glass in my cabin and take it with me to my next activity! Check out 17 Things You Should Never Pack in Your Checked Luggage on a Cruise
Cruise Fare
I never pay full price on cruises- there are always some cruise sales running, so I take advantage of that. I also always get free onboard credit whenever I book a cruise. If you’re using a travel agent, always ask for onboard credit. They will always give you some, even if it’s just $50! Check out When to Book a Cruise to Get the Best Deal
Champagne
I never buy champagne on a cruise because I know I can get it for free at the art auction! The cruise art auction gives away free champagne to attendees, and the best part is there is no obligation to buy art! It’s a great way to relax and enjoy your champagne while admiring art. Check out 15 Amazing Free Cruise Ship Perks that First Time Cruisers Find Most Surprising
Cabin Upgrade
Cruise lines try to maximize their revenue by offering passengers the opportunity to bid on cabin upgrades. These cabin upgrades can be a great deal, and if you do your homework and do not overbid, you can get an upgrade for less than the regular price. Watch out for the email inviting you to bid on cabin upgrades! Find out more here: The Secret Cruise Cabin Upgrade You Need to Know About
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions can be pricey when booked directly through the cruise line. To save money, never book a shore excursion on the ship. It’s always cheaper to book cruise shore excursions before boarding the ship. There are always pre-cruise sales on shore excursions, and you can save 10-35%! Check out 10 Shore Excursion Mistakes that Will Ruin Your Cruise Vacation
Gift Shop Souvenir
Don’t pay full price on gift shop souvenir! They usually have sales throughout the cruise. I always keep an eye out for the $10 gift shop sale, where they sell t-shirts and other souvenirs for only $10! This sale usually takes place during a sea day. However, check with the gift shop staff to find out if they will run this sale so you can plan ahead. Check out The Worst Months to Go on a Cruise
Laundry Service
Laundry service on cruise ships are expensive! The best way to get a discount is to buy laundry service packages before you get on the ship. There are always some pre-cruise discounts on their website. Otherwise, check to see if your cruise ship has self-service laundromats, and you can use that instead of paying for laundry packages. Check out 14 Cruise Laundry Tips You Need to Know About
Beverage Packages
I never pay full price on drink packages. Drink packages are often discounted on the cruise website pre-cruise. The discounts can be significant, 10-35% off compared to onboard prices. If you’re not a heavy drinker, it might not be worth it for you to buy a beverage package. Check out 8 Reasons Why Cruise Ship Beverage Packages are a Waste of Money
Water
I never buy bottled water on cruises. First of all, they are expensive—as high as $5.50 a bottle! And why pay for water when you can get it for free? Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it in the buffet drinks dispenser! Check out 12 Things to Bring from Home to Save Money on Your Cruise