Be Aware of these 6 Hidden Fees and 1 Sneaky Trick that Could Inflate the Cost of your Cruise Vacation

6 Hidden Fees and 1 Sneaky Trick That Could Break the Bank on Your Cruise Vacation

Icon of the Seas

Cruising: More Than Meets the Eye

Ahoy, fashionista voyagers! Are you ready to set sail on a journey of style and luxury? Well, hold on tight to your designer sunglasses, because behind the shimmering allure of a glamorous cruise vacation lie some hidden fees that can leave your credit card begging for mercy. Don’t fret, though! Your trusted beauty and fashion expert is here to spill the tea on the sneaky costs that could make you walk the plank of financial ruin.

Let’s embark on this amusing adventure together, exploring the uncharted waters of the fashionably treacherous cruise world. Picture yourself sunbathing by the pool deck, sipping a colorful cocktail, and feeling the soft ocean breeze caress your perfectly manicured nails. Sounds like a dream, right? But excitement turns to horror when you realize there’s a whole universe of hidden expenses just waiting for you.

Holland America Line’s Volendam in Alaska

Fly, My Wallet, Fly

Let’s start with the most vicious of them all: flights. Don’t be fooled by the luxurious experience of sailing across the cobalt seas; getting to your dream cruise ship might actually cost you an arm and a leg. Imagine paying more for your flight than for the actual cruise itself! It’s like buying a diamond tiara, only to discover it’s made of plastic. Ouch! So, before you board that enchanting vessel, make sure to book your flights wisely to avoid a budgetary shipwreck.

Wonder of the Seas Solarium

The Haunting of the WiFi Ghost

Okay, picture this: you’re floating in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by glamorous people and breathtaking vistas. What could possibly ruin this perfect moment? Well, try being disconnected from the digital world. The mere thought of spending a day without WiFi sends chills down your spine, doesn’t it? Cruise lines know this, oh yes, they do. So, brace yourself for the shocking surprise when you see the price tag for onboard internet access. It’s like paying a fortune to chat with a ghost in cyberspace.

Two chefs in front of teppanyaki in the MSC Meraviglia

Dining Delights at a Price

Let’s talk about food, dear friends. While your taste buds dance with delight at the thought of indulging in scrumptious meals, be prepared to open your wallet wider than Cinderella’s glass slipper. The main dining areas are usually included in your ticket, but if you have a hankering for a gourmet extravaganza, you better be ready to fork over some extra cash. Whether it’s a mouthwatering sushi feast or a sizzling steak dinner, the haute cuisine of the seas comes at a price. It’s like trying to sip champagne on a beer budget – a feast for the eyes, but a pain in the pockets.

The amenities inside Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima cruise ship

Cheers to a Drink, and Your Bank Account’s Sink

Clink glasses with the glamorous crowd on the pool deck, my dear fashion enthusiasts, but watch out for the monetary whirlpool that is the world of onboard beverages. It’s like being trapped in a never-ending happy hour, but with a hefty price tag attached. Nothing screams luxury like a refreshing piña colada, but be prepared for the sticker shock that comes with those sips of paradise. Beverage packages may seem tempting, but if you’re not careful, your bar tab might rival the national debt. So, drink responsibly, my stylish sailors, and keep your financial ship afloat!

Norwegian Prima

Fun and Games…at a Cost!

We all know that port excursions can dip into your wallet faster than a seagull swooping down on a french fry. But did you know that the ship itself is teeming with activities that can stealthily drain your funds? From high-tech VR arcades to exhilarating go-kart tracks, these modern cruise ships are like floating amusement parks. The catch? You need to pay for the privilege of having fun. It’s like stepping into a dazzling wonderland, only to discover that every step comes with a toll. So choose your adventures wisely, fashion lovers, as you navigate the sea of costly entertainment.

the bedroom with windows that overlook the water

Fee the Crew, Tip the Scales

Ah, gratuities, the age-old dilemma of whether to tip or not to tip. On a cruise, this conundrum becomes even more complicated. Some luxury liners include gratuities in the base fare, while others require you to part with some hard-earned cash. It’s like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded – you never know if you’re getting it right. And while some cruise lines have been increasing their daily gratuity rates, aiming to keep their crew happy, it’s a delicate dance of dollars and cents. So, my dear fashion mavens, be ready to tip your hat and your wallet to show your appreciation.

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas cruise ship

Anchoring Your Wallet with Pre-Booked Activities

Picture this: you’re eagerly planning your cruise vacation, and your excitement knows no bounds. But, beware! Cruise lines are sly little devils, enticing you to pre-book onboard activities that could take a big bite out of your fashion budget. It’s like falling into a shopping frenzy, swiping your credit card left and right, only to realize you’ve spent more than you bargained for. So, my dear fashionistas, stay strong and resist the temptation to splurge before you even set foot on the ship. Keep a vigilant eye on your spending and sail through your vacation in style without breaking the bank!


Oh, dear readers, we’ve reached the end of our delightful journey through the treacherous waters of hidden cruise fees. But fear not! Armed with this knowledge, you are now prepared to navigate the beautiful world of fashion-forward cruising with elegance and grace. Remember, fashion is not just about the outfits you wear, but also the savvy way you handle your finances. So be wise, be stylish, and set sail on your next adventure with confidence!

Now, tell me, have you ever been surprised by hidden fees on a cruise? Share your scintillating sea stories in the comments below. Bon voyage, my fellow fashion enthusiasts!