When you cruise, your accommodations, meals and snacks, and lots of onboard entertainment are all included in your fare – not to mention transportation to all the ports on the itinerary. But, most cruise lines charge extra for at least some optional items. Which extras are worth your money? The answer depends on what’s important to you, but here’s a quick look at some extras you might want to include in your cruise budget.
Shore
excursions. You’re cruising not only to enjoy the ship but to enjoy what’s on
shore. Ship-sponsored shore excursions are designed to give you memorable experiences
in port. Be sure to read the descriptions carefully and purchase excursions
you’ll truly enjoy.
Specialty
dining. You can dine very well in the onboard restaurants included in your fare.
But if you’re celebrating a special occasion or would like an elevated dining
experience, the upcharge for a specialty restaurant can be well worth it.
Beverage
packages. On many ships, water, tea, coffee, and juice are included in the
cruise fare; other beverages are available for an extra cost. If you enjoy
flavored water, soda, specialty tea or coffee drinks, beer, wine, cocktails, or
spirits, the cost of these can add up quickly. A pre-paid beverage package may save
you quite a bit compared to paying for each individual drink.
Photo
packages. You can certainly take your own photos on the ship, but photos taken
by a professional photographer can be a wonderful cruise keepsake. If you’re
traveling with friends or family, group photos can be treasured for years to
come.
Wi-Fi
access. If you want to get away from emails, texts, and social media during your
cruise, onboard Wi-Fi access may not be important to you. But if you know
you’ll need to connect to the internet while sailing, the purchase of a Wi-Fi access
package is worth considering.
Spa
treatments. Cruise ship spas rival the finest spas on land, and their treatments
are priced accordingly. Still, pampering yourself with a detoxifying wrap, relaxing
massage or rejuvenating facial can be a highlight of your time on board.
Laundry.
Purchasing a laundry and dry cleaning package can help you pack lighter, which
is especially helpful if you’re taking a longer cruise. Onboard laundry
services might be more affordable than airline fees for extra or overweight
luggage.
For
more details about onboard extras, you may find worth the price, talk with Anita,
your professional travel advisor.
Find
us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel
