Cruising on every budget

About Cruising on every budget

By the ULTIMATE the world’s cruise lines Editorial Team

Editor-in-Chief: Jai Michael

Cruise fares look simple and rarely are. The number on the page is only the start: what it includes, the cabin you choose and the week you sail matter as much. Here is how to compare like with like, at every budget.

Compare like with like

A mainstream fare usually covers your cabin, the main restaurants and the shows, with drinks, Wi-Fi, speciality dining and a daily service charge on top. An ultra-luxury fare includes most of those, and sometimes excursions and flights. Before you compare two prices, add up what you would actually spend on board: our line guides list what each line includes, in its own words.

Sail outside the peak

School holidays and high summer are the most expensive weeks on almost every line. The shoulder months in the Mediterranean, the start and end of the Alaska and Norway seasons, and the Caribbean away from Christmas and Easter all tend to be kinder.

Compare what each fare includes, not just the headline price.

Choose the cabin wisely

On a short voyage packed with ports, an inside or ocean-view cabin is often all you need. On a sea-heavy itinerary, a balcony earns its keep. If you are considering a suite, look at what comes with it: on many big ships the suite includes access to a private enclave, such as Celebrity’s Retreat, MSC’s Yacht Club or NCL’s Haven, with its own restaurant and sun deck.

Try before you commit

Several lines sell short sailings of two to five nights, which are an inexpensive way to discover whether cruising suits you. Luxury lines also sell shorter voyages and lower suite categories that make a first taste more affordable.

Our advice: set your budget for the whole trip, including flights, a hotel night before sailing and spending on board. Then choose the most inclusive line that fits it. Many travellers find that a more inclusive fare costs little more in the end, and the holiday feels freer.

Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Cruising on every budget before you go.