Sailing the open ocean with your family or friends can be an incredible vacation - or a financial fiasco if you are caught off-guard by unexpected fees and extra charges.
Generally, the more you pay for a cruise, the more is included.
However, you must do some advance research.
Here is a partial list of hidden costs that might surprise you! • Port Taxes and Fees Various governments and port authorities charge fees, which cruise lines pass along to their passengers.
They are like towing and parking fees for your vehicle.
Some authorities even charge a fee per passenger.
• Alcoholic and Carbonated Beverages Regular coffee is often free - but fancy coffee is not.
Water in a glass is free - bottled water is not.
Wine might be included on some cruises.
Others might charge for all alcohol consumed.
• Cancellation Insurance Although cancellation insurance is not charged by cruise lines, it is an extra cost that you should factor into your vacation.
It is well worth the price.
Your medical insurance policy probably will not cover cancellation - so read the fine print and buy a separate policy if necessary.
• Shore Excursions A shore excursion can cost anywhere from $50 to hundreds of dollars if you book a special activity like bungee jumping or balloon rides.
Carry extra cash for souvenirs, maps, gratuities, etc.
Be careful to return to the ship on time, otherwise you could end up paying extra to fly to the next port of call.
• Gambling An onboard casino can consume huge amounts of cash.
Set a budget - and stick to it.
• Alternative Dining Specialty restaurants onboard cruise ships usually charge extra (sometimes, a lot extra).
Stick to the ship's main dining venue.
• Extras on the Menu Certain items are included with your fare.
Others are not.
Be sure you know the difference.
• Photographs Take your own photos and avoid the ship's photographer.
If he or she snaps a few photos that might be interesting, avoid the urge to review them.
It's easier not to buy something if you don't see it first.
• Spa Treatments and Massages Be ready to pay premium prices for any salon or spa services.
To save money, avoid them entirely.
• Onboard Activities Many activities are free, including specialized activities for children and teens.
However, you generally have to pay extra for babysitting and things like Pilates or Yoga classes.
• Dry-Cleaning and Laundry As in a hotel, laundry and dry-cleaning services are typically quite expensive.
Determine if there is a self-service laundromat onboard, or pack travel-size laundry detergent, wash items in your cabin, and hang overnight to dry.
• Gratuities Tipping policies vary by cruise line.
Remember that the ship's staff rely on tips to round out their wages.
They work hard for their money and deserve to be recognized.
This is one area where you should avoid cutting corners.
• Internet Internet access onboard is expensive and notoriously slow.
If you must check your email or browse the Internet for any reason, wait until you go ashore.
An Internet cafe will take you away from sightseeing activities, but it can save a bundle.
Do Lots of Advance Research Spend time online and on the phone before you embark on any cruise.
Ask questions.
Make notes of all the extras you might have to pay for and include them in your budget.
Then - enjoy your cruise without worrying about the cost...
Bon voyage!