What a cruise really costs: the all-in price, explained
The price in a cruise ad is rarely what you pay. Here's every part of the real cost, from taxes and port fees to gratuities, extras and payment deadlines, so you can compare quotes fairly.
By the BookMyDreamCruise teamUpdated September 30, 2026 3 min read
- Fares are usually
- Per person, based on two sharing a cabin
- Often added
- Taxes, fees and port expenses
- Usually charged per day
- Gratuities, on most mainstream lines
- Final payment
- Commonly around 90 days before sailing, varying by line and trip
1. The cruise fare
Cruise fares are almost always quoted per person, based on two people sharing a cabin. A third or fourth guest in the same cabin usually pays much less. Solo travelers often pay a single supplement, because the cabin is priced for two.
The fare covers your cabin, most meals in the main restaurants and buffet, entertainment, and many on-board activities.
2. Taxes, fees and port expenses
Government taxes, port fees and similar charges are often shown separately from the fare and added at booking. They vary by itinerary and can add a meaningful amount per person, so check whether a price includes them before comparing.
3. Gratuities
Most mainstream cruise lines add a daily gratuity, or service charge, per person, which is shared among the crew. You can often prepay it with your cruise. Some premium and luxury lines include gratuities in the fare. Drinks and spa services usually carry their own service charge.
4. Extras on board and on shore
These aren't part of the price you're quoted, but most people spend on some of them:
- Drinks packages or drinks by the glass, including specialty coffee and soda on many lines.
- Specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, spa treatments and photos.
- Shore excursions, whether booked with the cruise line or independently.
5. Getting there and protecting your trip
Add flights, a hotel the night before if you're flying, and parking or transfers at the port. Travel insurance is worth considering, especially for trips booked far ahead or sailing in hurricane season.
6. Deposits and final payment
Most bookings need a deposit to hold the cabin, with the balance due before sailing. Final payment is commonly around 90 days before departure, but it varies by cruise line and trip length, and longer or luxury voyages can be earlier. After final payment, cancellation penalties usually apply.
How we quote
Our specialists quote an all-in price: the cruise fare plus taxes, fees and port expenses, and gratuities where the line charges them, for everyone in your party. Optional extras are listed separately, so you can compare quotes fairly and decide what to add.
Frequently asked questions
Is the advertised cruise price per person?
Usually, yes. Most cruise prices are per person, based on two people sharing a cabin, and often don't include taxes, port fees or gratuities.
Are cruise gratuities mandatory?
On most mainstream lines, a daily gratuity per person is added automatically, and policies on adjusting it vary by line. Some premium and luxury lines include gratuities in the fare.
When is final payment due on a cruise?
Commonly around 90 days before sailing, but it depends on the cruise line and the length of the trip. Check the exact date in your booking terms.
Why does a solo cruise cost more?
Cabins are priced for two people, so a solo traveler often pays a single supplement. Some ships have studio cabins designed and priced for one.
What does an all-in price mean at BookMyDreamCruise?
The cruise fare, taxes, fees and port expenses, and gratuities where charged, for your whole party. Optional extras like drinks packages and excursions are listed separately.
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