Click on a label to read posts from that part of the world.
What's not included in an All Inclusive Cruise
.jpg)
Yesterday we posted about the world's most expensive cruises and today, we talk about how they sneakily become even more so.
As most of you know, cruise ships tend to be all inclusive. In my book, that means everything is free, and that is a very, very good thing.
Unfortunately, this is not exactly true according to The Cost of Cruising by Jane Archer. Archer fills us is in on those items and services which are not included in an all inclusive.
As I've routinely expressed, I've never been on a cruise so I was a bit surprised at the additional bills which add up very quickly. For those of you who are cruise veterans, the following list of charges will come as no surprise. But for those considering a cruise for the first time and are trying to manage a budget, spare a moment to look over what's not included--according to Archer, it can bump up your bill on a seven day cruise upwards of $120 minimum.
Drinks
Ice cream
Spa services
All gratuities (this can really add up)
Specialty restaurants
Want more information on cruises?
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Roger Sep 15th 2007 4:36PM
While it is true that tips ad to the cost of a cruise, just add it to your planning, and be nice about it. And if you avoid some of the listed 'extras', it is not too costly. On our last cruise, we had the opportunity to talk at some length with our dining room waiter, and found out that people working onboard sign on for $50 a month, and tips! It is no wonder that they are so helpful and pleasant, as their existence, and their families, as well, depend on the tips they receive. And we have yet to find service personnel on board ships that are anything but more than helpful in taking care of any request you might make. Cruising costs are generally low enough that you can afford to be nice in return, and see that the people are properly tipped and thanked for the care they give.