Understanding Actual Cruise Costs

by D. Casey

I will try to list it to you.   But first let look at the basic components that make up the cost of a cruise, and what you should expect to pay.  I don't like surprises.   

BASIC CRUISE COSTS
The "base cruise cost"  pays for your  accommodations you have chosen for the length of the cruise, all the onboard entertainment, activities, meals, the facilities aboard the ship and of course the sights..

PORT  FEES AND TAXES
No matter where you go in the world there are taxes.  When taking a curse the  taxes and fees charged  various from country and port authorities at the ports where your ship call.  That is why cruise ships don't make port in certain country or area.  There are ways  the cruise line passes these fees along to the passengers.   They can included it in the price or add it on.   So when booking a cruse you will either see the ad stating does not include port fees and taxes or it does.   So when comparing companies this is one thing to look for.  

When we decided who will be listed on our cruise site this is one thing we took into consideration. How upfront the book agent is.   When you order from our web site at bestcruisebargains.com we have search out the best  booking we can find and we have use their services our self.  So you have no hidden surprises when you board a ship involving port fees and taxes.

 These fees  typically cover the cost of docking and use of the port facilities; (the ship parking fees) for the time the ship is in port. . that country  government tax per passengers and other state, federal and local tax.   Depending on what part of the world you are going to they can be reality cheap to costly that is why you will no when you book using this web site what you are paying for.

Many of the port you will go to the town is right at the docks.  

ADDING IN THE AIR COSTS 
As I discuss before getting the air when you book is the best way to go.  Air "add-ons" are an option that you may or may not choose to utilize.   If you are flying to board a ship then book it at the time of getting your cruise. The Air/Sea program, this will also include baggage handling and transportation from the airport to the ship, you embark on and transportation back to the airport on the day you disembark your cruise.  It is worth it!!

CANCELLATION INSURANCE
Yet another optional cost of your cruise. Cancellation insurance will cover any penalties incurred for canceling due to illness or death. See related article on insurance for more in-depth coverage.

HOW TO  UNDERSTAND A CRUISE AD
I have read the Sunday Travel Section many times and have spent hundreds of hours looking at other in the curies business.   Unless it is a last minute deal may of then don't include the basic, never the port charge and at the worst cabin you can get, or they are always sold out and only have the higher price one left.  That is why I developed this web site.  I wanted to take the guess work out of cruising and that is why my web site is so successful.   Out booking when you order over the internet spell it out.  No hidden cost.

"LEAD-IN" PRICING and Bait and Switch.  
Chances are, you're dreaming of a stateroom will  verandah when you call them. That probably was there intent.   One major available when you order using Best Cruise Bargains you will know what room you are getting right then and then and the total cost.  We made sure our booking agents don't play games with you or they are off our list.  

BOOKING ONLINE

 When you book online using our booking agent you know what you are getting at the time you order.  No guess work you get a receipt right then and there.    I firmly believe it better to order online and the saving is always passed on to you.                                       

READING THE FINE PRINT ON ADS FROM OTHER BOOKING AGENTS
Get out that magnifying glass and read the fine print. Check to see if the price includes port charges and taxes as this can easily add over $100.00 per person to the cost of the cruise if they are not included. Thankfully, recently enacted government regulations require the cruise lines to include the taxes in the advertised prices, or else make it clear that they are not included and display the additional costs plainly.   But everyone don't follow the rules.  We believe our booking agent does.  if you have any problems please let us know and either they will correct it or they will be off our list.

BEWARE OF ADS OFFERING SOMETHING FOR LESS THAN OUR BOOKING AGENT OFFER
Prices listed are normally inside  (no window)  Window view might cost you $100-250 more per person but it might be worth it.   I personally like a window with a view even it is only the view of the sea. 

 The daylight makes the cabin seem larger and it great to wake up and see what the weather is like outside and the view can be so exciting on trips to the islands and Alaska. . I always urge first-timers to take an outside cabin unless their budget absolutely prohibits. A stateroom with verandah can give your own semi-private place to watch the ship come in and out of port or just relax. Trips to  Alaska, Panama canal and the islands they are great.

What are the other charges:
Cruise lines charge for drinks (soft or alcoholic).  If you drink soft drinks like I do then get a soda card.  many people just get one and use it with their spouse.  You don't suppose to but it will save you some money.   Tip are  $10.00 per day, per person.  That is really not bad for the service you get but ti does add up. Shopping is something is great and many port duty free. Shore excursions (touring the sights)i you can do that on your own but they are normally well worth the cost.   If you order a meals while off the ship and it is not part of an excursions you will have to pay for it.

Many cruise lines will charge you extra, for ice cream cone and other it is free,  alternative restaurant ($5- $50 per person but you will see the fees up front.  most are in the $15-20 range.)   Internet service is high but is a great way to keep in touch with business.  l

I would suggest if good to budget around  $200-300 per person in spending money for a one week cruise,  and if you take some excurising you can double that amount. more so if you like to indulge in tours the more it can cost.  But a good reasonable amount for most is indicated able.

Here is a quick look at what all the little "extras" can cost: