Cruising is such an amazing value! Not only do you get unlimited food, free entertainment onboard, and the chance to explore beautiful ports, but there are also plenty of hidden freebies on cruise ships that you might not know about. Here are some unexpected perks you can get for free on your next cruise!
Free Shuttle
Many cruise lines offer complimentary shuttle service to the downtown area of the cruise port, which is a great perk if you’re on a budget and looking to explore independently. Sometimes, they may charge a small fee for the shuttle service, but it’s still a more affordable option than booking expensive shore excursions!
Free Texting
Many cruise lines give passengers free onboard texting even if you don’t buy the cruise WiFi. You can typically use the cruise app to text for free. As long as you’re connected to the free cruise WiFi, you can access the chat feature on the app and text away for free.
The cruise app lets you invite fellow passengers to chat and set up group texts. It’s incredibly handy for coordinating plans with family and friends during sea days, like deciding where to eat or which activities to participate in. Plus, it helps parents keep tabs on their teens and young adult kids’ whereabouts.
Access to the Spa Sauna
Some cruise ships will let you use their sauna and steam room for free even if you are not a spa customer. Typically, all passengers are welcome to use the spa’s locker room, which has showers, a sauna and a steam room. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy your sea day!
Pastries and Sandwiches at the Cafe
Pastries and sandwiches are free in some cruise ship’s specialty coffee shops. You can get complimentary sweets such as cookies and pastries, along with savory finger sandwiches. It’s a great place to stop for a little snack between meals. Do know that these cruise cafes’ specialty coffee is typically not free.
Behind the Scenes Tour
Some cruise ships will give free behind-the-scenes tours of the galley, typically scheduled on sea days. It’s a great way to get an insider’s look at how the ship operates! Look for it in the cruise daily planner.
Themed Parties
Cruise ships are known for throwing fun themed parties. The best part is these parties are free to attend. From poolside White Parties to 80s nights to Silent Disco Parties, there are a lot of fun parties to attend throughout your cruise.
Continental Breakfast Room Service
Room service is typically not free on cruises, but if you order continental breakfast, that is usually free. Continental breakfast includes muffins, pastries, croissants, coffee, juices, cereal, yogurt, and fruit. It’s a great way to start the day, especially if you don’t want to deal with the breakfast buffet crowd. Getting coffee delivered to your cabin first thing in the morning is nice!
Library Books
Borrowing books from the library on a cruise ship is free. Typically, these cruise libraries are stocked with a small selection of mainly fiction- great poolside reads!
Dance Classes
Want to learn how to salsa? Many cruise lines offer free dance classes as part of their onboard activities. It’s a fun way to get involved and a great opportunity to burn off some calories! Be sure to check the daily planner for dance class schedules. Check out The Worst Months to Go on a Cruise
Water Park
Modern cruise ships are like mini-theme parks. Many are equipped with water slides and splash pads. The best part is that access to these water attractions is included in your cruise fare, so there’s no need to spend extra on water park tickets! Check out 12 Cruise Mistakes that Will Ruin Your Sea Days
Mini-Golf
Some cruise ships have mini-golf that are free for passengers to use. It’s a great family-friendly activity perk that you get for free on cruise ships. Check out 11 Rookie Mistakes that Will Ruin Your Cruise Embarkation Day
Free Laundry
Some cruise ships have laundromats that are free to use. It’s a great perk especially if you are going on a long cruise! Other cruise ships have laundromats, but they charge a minimal fee to use. Even so, it’s still cheaper than using the cruise laundry service. Check out 14 Cruise Laundry Tips You Need to Know About
Live Music
Live music is always free on cruise ships. The best part is, on sea days, you can enjoy live performances throughout the day. Whether it’s a violinist, a cover band in the atrium, or a live DJ on the pool deck, there’s free music to be found all around the ship. Check out Should You Remove Automatic Gratuities on Your Next Cruise?
Port Talks
If you’re on a budget and plan to explore the cruise ports on your own, then you need to attend the free port talks. These sessions, typically led by an expert or a member of the shore excursion staff, are a great resource.
They will give advice on the best transportation options, itinerary suggestions, the best attractions to visit, and cruise port safety tips. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to ask questions about the port if you are exploring it independently. Check out 13 Safety Tips at Cruise Ports You Need to Know About
Free Champagne
If you want free champagne on your cruise, go to the art auction. On most cruise ships, the art auction staff will give out complimentary champagne to all art auction attendees. It’s a nice relaxing way to spend your afternoon, and the best part is that there’s no pressure to buy art. Check out 10 Ways to Score Free Champagne at a Cruise (How to Get Free Drinks!)
Free Drinks at the Casino
If you enjoy gamble, you don’t need to buy a cruise beverage package! Most cruise ships will give you complimentary drinks if you are actively playing at the casino. As long as you are actively gambling at the slot machine or the tables, a server will come by to take your drink order- free of charge! Check out 25 Things People Forget to Pack for a Cruise
Free Soft-Serve
Soft serve is usually free on cruises. You can get it on a cone or a cup and even choose from a variety of toppings, including chocolate and rainbow sprinkles. It’s usually found near the pool or at the buffet. It’s a very popular cruise snack! Check out 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise