What a cruise fare usually includes
- Your cabin, and travel between ports.
- Meals in the main dining room and buffet, plus some snacks.
- Basic drinks such as water, tea, coffee and juice at breakfast.
- Most entertainment, pools, gyms and kids’ clubs.
Often extra: alcoholic and soft drinks (or a drinks package), specialty restaurants, Wi‑Fi, shore excursions, spa treatments, and gratuities or a daily service charge. Port taxes and fees may be shown separately from the headline fare.
Choosing a cabin
- Inside: no window and the cheapest option. Fine if you’ll mostly be out and about.
- Oceanview: a window or porthole that doesn’t open.
- Balcony: your own outdoor space. Great for scenic routes like Alaska and the fjords.
- Suite: more space, and often perks such as priority boarding or a dedicated restaurant.
Mid-ship cabins on lower decks tend to feel the least motion, which helps if you’re worried about seasickness.
Gratuities and service charges
Many cruise lines add a daily service charge or gratuity per guest to your onboard account. Others include gratuities in the fare, and the approach often differs between US and UK-focused lines. Check your line’s policy so you can budget for it.
Embarkation day and onboard tips
- Complete online check-in before you travel and follow your arrival time slot.
- Keep medication, documents and swimwear in a day bag, as your main luggage may arrive at your cabin later.
- Attend the mandatory safety briefing (muster drill), which may be done partly on an app or TV.
- Always be back onboard by the stated time in port: ships won’t wait for late passengers on independent tours.
- Read our cruise packing guide before you sail.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
