How to Pay Less so you can Cruise More

Cruising is one of the few vacations where you can eat nonstop, see multiple destinations, and be wildly entertained… all without opening your wallet every five minutes. The trick? Knowing where to save, what to skip, and where the freebies are found.

Welcome to your go-to guide on where to save and what you never need to pay for.

✂️ Where to Cut Corners Without Cutting Fun

• Book early and sail smart.

  • Early birds snag the best prices, cabins, and promos. Bonus tip: older ships and off-season sailings are usually cheaper and far less chaotic.

• Skip full-trip Wi-Fi.

  • If you only need to check in occasionally, don’t buy the whole package. Grab a one-day plan or use Wi-Fi while in port.

• Spa days are for port days.

  • While everyone else is ashore, the spa is quieter and often discounted. Same massage, better price.

• Read the daily newsletter like it’s breaking news.

  • Flash sales, happy hours, free activities, and random freebies love to hide there.

• Grab a port shopping guide.

  • They're not just maps. They often come with coupons and giveaways that feel as if you've just found secret treasure.

• Leave the travel hangers at home.

  • Your room steward has extras. Ask politely and your closet magically doubles.

• Read the fine print.

  • Some services already include gratuities. Knowing this helps you avoid double tipping.

• Always mention who you are.

  • Sailing from your home city? Military, teacher, law enforcement, fire, EMT, senior? Celebrating something special? Discounts and perks may be available.

• Heroes Sail Free on Margaritaville at Sea.

  • Yes, really. If you qualify, this one’s huge.

• Don’t rush to pay the cruise off.

  • Prices can drop. If they do, you may be able to reprice before final payment.

• Specialty dining hack.

  • Book specialty restaurants for lunch instead of dinner, if available. Same food, lower price.

• Parking and transfers add up.

  • Secure off-port parking and booking your own airport transfers can save serious cash compared to cruise line options. Make sure the lot is secure, otherwise, park at the port.

🚫 Cruise Without Paying for “Extras”

• Bring your own water bottle.

  • Refill onboard and stay hydrated without buying bottled water all week.

• You don’t have to book excursions.

  • Many ports are perfect for wandering. They often have beaches, shops, and/or cafes nearby, or inexpensive taxis are readily available. Adventure doesn’t require an escort.

• Guest Services is your friend.

  • Motion sickness meds are often free. Future You will be thankful not to pay for expensive medication on ship.

• Eat where the food is already included.

  • Buffets, main dining rooms, and complimentary eateries have more than enough variety to keep you happily stuffed.

• Say yes to free activities.

  • Trivia, dance classes, surf lessons, game shows, raffles, prizes. The ship is basically a floating activity festival.

• Bring your own drinks.

  • Wine, soda, water. Twist tops are key so you don’t pay corkage.

• Choose later embarkation and carry your bags.

  • You’ll skip porter tips and get steps in before the buffet marathon.

• Room service can be free… to a point.

  • Know what’s included and order wisely.

• Pack baggies or a small to-go container.

  • Late-night buffet snacks back in your cabin? That's a beautiful thing.

• While docked, look for free fun on the ship.

  • Some activities have fees during sea days but are free while docked in port.

🎉 What’s Actually FREE Onboard (Yes, All of This)

• Food & drinks you don’t pay extra for:

  • Ice cream

  • Snacks

  • Pizza

  • Breakfast at Johnny Rockets (Royal Caribbean Oasis-class ships)

  • Water, flavored water, coffee, tea, milk, lemonade, and hot chocolate are available, apple juice and orange juice at breakfast

  • Champagne at art auctions and during Captain’s Night

  • Citrus water at the spa or on the dock after excursions

• Entertainment that costs exactly zero dollars:

  • Broadway-style shows

  • Comedy acts

  • Magicians, dancers, or other entertainers

  • Live music

  • Interactive shows

  • Ice skating, aqua shows, bumper cars

  • Movies

  • Clubs and dance parties

• Active fun included:

  • Water slides, FlowRider (on RC)

  • Rock climbing

  • Mini golf

  • Zip lines

  • The gym and some fitness classes

  • Lessons for boogie boarding, surfing, and even casino games

• Family-friendly perks:

  • Kids clubs

  • Private island access with loungers, pools, and food

• The little things that add up:

  • Pool and beach towels

  • Daily housekeeping

  • Basic toiletries

  • Free gifts from shops listed in port maps

  • Game room and library

  • Earplugs

  • Motion sickness meds

  • Postcards

  • Distilled water for CPAP

✨ Bonus Nuggets the Savvy Cruisers Know

• Stock shareholder benefits can mean onboard credit.

• Travel insurance protects your vacation investment.

• Loyalty points unlock better perks the more you sail.

⚓ Final Thought

Cruising doesn’t have to mean spending until you're broke. With a little planning and a lot of included fun, you can cruise smarter, eat better, and still come home with money left for your next sailing.

Because the best souvenir is realizing how much you didn’t spend. 🌊💙

**Be sure to research your ship and sailing, since some activities and perks may vary.