When it comes to cruising, there are plenty of add-on costs, from Wi-Fi and cruise packages to gratuities and specialty dining. And while it can be great to have everything you need for a week on the high seas included in one bundled cost, there are some things you need to know before booking a cruise-inclusive package.
We’ve tapped Beci Mahnken, VTA, the founder and CEO of MEI-Travel, to share her insights into the expanding world of cruise-inclusive packages, whether they are worth the cost, and what cruise passengers should know before they click a mouse to add a package to an upcoming voyage.
What are cruise-inclusive packages?
“Cruise-inclusive packages are really the middle ground between a standard cruise fare and a true all-inclusive vacation. Guests pay a higher bundled price upfront, and the cruise line includes several things they might otherwise purchase separately, such as drinks, Wi-Fi, crew gratuities, specialty dining, or shore excursion credits,” explains Mahnken.
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One of the most well-known cruise-inclusive packages is with Princess Cruises, dubbed Princess Plus and Princess Premier (two levels of the line’s inclusive packages). On a recent Princess cruise, I had Princess Premier and found it to be really helpful. The two packages include alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, casual dining options, ship-wide delivery of drinks and snacks through the line’s OceanNow program, room service delivery, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and more. The biggest differences between the two levels are the number of drinks or specialty meals included, and the number of devices that can connect to the ship Wi-Fi at once.
Other cruise lines that offer inclusive packages include Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea, Holland America’s Have It All, and Celebrity Cruises’ All Included. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line has Value Packages that bundle some items, but not everything. If your next cruise is with Royal Caribbean or Disney Cruise Line, you likely won’t see any inclusive packages.
If you’re thinking a cruise-inclusive package may be a fit for your family on your next cruise, Mahnken says to really read the fine print. “A package with the same general idea can look very different from one cruise line to another, and buying one does not necessarily mean everything is covered,” she explains.
What are the major pros and cons of a cruise-inclusive package?
The biggest pro of a cruise-inclusive package is knowing the price up-front. This gives you a good idea of the overall cost of your vacation and fewer surprise costs when your bill comes due at the end of a cruise. “If you will genuinely use most of what is included, a package can also offer significant savings over purchasing everything separately,” says Mahnken.
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One thing your family will need to think about, though, is how many of the benefits you’ll actually use. “You may end up paying for benefits you will not use, and some cruise lines require everyone in the stateroom, or the first two guests, to purchase or receive the package. There may also be drink limits, age restrictions, service charges, and exclusions that can be easy to overlook. A package can make a cruise feel more inclusive, but it does not necessarily mean everything is included,” Mahnken explains.
What should cruisers be aware of before adding an inclusive package to your cruise?
Mahnken’s biggest tip for cruisers considering a package is to look at the total cost. “Before adding a package, always look at the total cost for the entire family and the full length of the sailing, not just the per-person, per-day price. Then compare that number with what you realistically expect to spend. You should not have to change your vacation habits just to make a package feel worthwhile,” she explains.
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It’s also worth noting that the package benefits and pricing can change without notice. It’s always a good idea to read the package terms for your booking and sailing date. She also says that even if dining and excursions are part of the package, you may still need to use the cruise website or app to make a reservation.
What is the best way to get a deal on cruise-inclusive packages?
“The best deal is not always the package with the biggest ‘percent off’ banner. Compare the total price of the cruise with the package against the standard fare plus only the extras your family would actually purchase,” says Mahnken.
You should also check if a package is cheaper to book at home versus on the cruise. Many times booking add-ons once you’re on the ship is more expensive than booking at home before your cruise. It’s also worth your time to keep checking for better deals that become available for your cruise before your final payment is due since pricing and promotions are constantly shifting.
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“This is also where a good travel advisor can be especially helpful. They can compare the real bottom-line cost, explain what is included, and watch for opportunities to reprice the booking when the cruise line’s rules allow it. Many travel advisors provide these services without charging the client an additional fee, so you may be able to get that extra help and advocacy at no added cost,” Mahnken says.
