I’ve Worked On Cruise Ships For Years. Here Are 10 Things Passengers Should Stop Wasting Money On
Cruise ships are floating cities of luxury, fun, and endless temptations to spend your hard-earned cash. But not everything on board is worth the price tag.
After working on these majestic vessels for years, I’ve seen countless passengers fall into the same spending traps. Don’t be that person. Here are 10 things you should definitely skip (or at least think twice about) on your next cruise.
1. Souvenir Photos
You know the drill, cruise photographers popping up at every turn, snapping pics as you board, dine, and dance. While those souvenir photos seem tempting, the prices are usually sky-high.
And let’s be honest, how many of those posed shots do you really want? Instead, use your own smartphone to capture genuine, fun moments. Make it a challenge with your travel buddies, who can take the most creative, Insta-worthy shot?
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also end up with photos that actually mean something.
2. Onboard Internet Packages
The cruise ship internet is notoriously slow and overpriced. Why pay a premium to watch a loading screen spin in circles? Instead of splurging on a frustrating experience, embrace the break from technology.
Use the time to truly unplug, read a book, enjoy the ocean view, or simply relax. If you must connect, wait until you’re in port where local cafes often offer free Wi-Fi. Bonus: you’ll come back feeling more refreshed and relaxed.
3. Overpriced Excursions
Sure, cruise-organized excursions are convenient, but they’re also marked up to the max.
Want to explore the port without blowing your budget? Go local. Research in advance and book directly with local guides or small tour companies. You’ll often find better prices and more authentic experiences.
Plus, wandering off the beaten path can lead to incredible discoveries you’d never find on a cookie-cutter tour.
4. Specialty Dining
Who doesn’t love a gourmet meal? Cruise lines know this and charge a premium for their specialty restaurants. While tempting, the truth is, included dining options are often just as delicious.
Try the main dining room or buffet, you’d be surprised by the quality and variety. Save specialty dining for a special occasion, like a birthday or anniversary. That way, it feels more like a treat and less like a splurge.
5. Expensive Spa Treatments
There’s nothing like a massage at sea, until you see the bill. Cruise ship spas are notoriously expensive, often double the price of similar services on land. If you’re craving relaxation, get creative.
Pack a few travel-sized spa products and turn your cabin into a DIY sanctuary. A bubble bath (if your room has a tub), a face mask, and some relaxing music can work wonders, all without draining your wallet.
6. Drink Packages
Unlimited drink packages sound like a great deal, but unless you’re planning to party from sunrise to sunset, they’re rarely worth the cost. Do the math before you buy.
Most packages require you to drink several cocktails, beers, or sodas every day just to break even. Instead, go pay-as-you-go or take advantage of free drinks during events like the Captain’s Welcome Party. Cheers to saving money!
7. Art Auctions
Cruise ship art auctions are fun, fast-paced, and often come with a free glass of champagne, but don’t get caught up in the moment. Impulse buys can be costly, and the art isn’t always the investment it’s made out to be.
Enjoy the show, learn about the artists, but think twice before bidding. If you fall in love with a piece, take a photo, research it, and make an informed decision later.
8. Shopping at Boutiques
Those onboard boutiques are shiny, luxurious, and very tempting, but also heavily marked up. If you’re eyeing a fancy watch or designer handbag, you’re better off buying it on land.
Instead, save your shopping for local markets at each port of call. Not only will you find unique souvenirs, but you’ll also support local artisans and bring home authentic keepsakes.
9. Casino Games
There’s no denying the allure of the casino. The flashing lights, the thrill of the slots, the suspense at the blackjack table.
But before you get swept up in the excitement, remember that casinos are designed to take your money, not make you rich. If you’re feeling lucky, set a budget before you start and treat it like buying a ticket to a show.
You’re paying for the entertainment, not a guaranteed win.
10. Phone Roaming Charges
This one’s a classic rookie mistake. Using your phone at sea can rack up eye-watering roaming charges. Don’t let your vacation end with a shocking bill.
Turn off data roaming as soon as you board, and use airplane mode to avoid accidental charges. If you need to stay connected, wait for free Wi-Fi at port stops or invest in an international data plan before you leave.