What Does a Cruise Cost?
What does a cruise cost?
I often get the question “What does a cruise cost?,” and it’s a great question! The cruise fare itself is what the cruise line charges you to book the cruise. Beyond that, the only things you absolutely have to budget for are gratuities (which the cruise line will charge you) and traveling to and home from the departure port.
On top of that, you may choose to add to your budget excursions for ports of call we will visit, as well as any extras on the ship you’d like. This may include soda or alcoholic drink packages, arcade game play, wifi access, cooking classes, spa treatments, speciality dining, or professional photos you’d like to purchase.
Some people can’t live without the extras on the ship, some like to add a few here and there, and some love to cruise without adding any extras. Our family typically budgets for excursions at each port of call, but doesn’t add any of the extras on the ship and are perfectly happy.
Whatever your preference, here’s some good news – by booking with our group, you’ll get $100 of on-board credit per stateroom to put towards your “extras on the ship” budget!
Be sure to budget for the cruise fare, taxes, fees, gratuities, and travel to and from the port. Excursions and extras on the ship are optional.
Your cruise fare will vary depending on when you book, but I’m here to help you get the best rate!
So how do the cruise lines set their fares? It’s actually very similar to the airline industry, and is heavily dependent on supply and demand. Here’s a fun infographic that breaks it down for you.
A few fun extras as well –
Because we are booking as a group, we have access to an additional special rate, called a group fare. When we book a room for you, we are able to compare the group rate and the current prevailing rates (what the current sales are) and choose which one is best.
The cruise prices follow algorithms of supply and demand so generally speaking the earlier you book the better. As the ship fills up, the prices may go up as well. Plus, the earlier you book, the more cabin choices there are available!
There is no need to worry about if you got the best deal, just book when you know you have the rooms you want. If you book the Early Saver rate, Carnival allows you to price match up until final payment date. So if they post a sale and your cabin is now selling at a better rate, we can match that price even after you booked!
Here’s another question we see a lot – what is included in my cruise fare?
Cruises are an all-inclusive vacation, however, there are extras you can add on. So what does “all-inclusive” mean? Here’s a list of what’s included and what is extra:
Hope that helps! Let me know what other questions you may have.
As always, feel free to share the website, Facebook group, these emails, or any other info about Homeschool Cruisescwith your friends and family. Also, I am always open to feedback – let me know your thoughts!
Ship accommodations, ocean transportation, meals, water, most onboard activities and entertainment are included in your cruise fare.
