Cruise guest explains how they spend ‘virtually nothing’ while on holiday | Cruise | Travel

Cruise holidays can be an expensive way to travel. While food is often included in the price of the holiday, drinks and other extras can quickly add up.

Excursions can also be pricey with cruise passengers paying high prices for tours and experiences off the ship.

However, a cruise guest has said they find it’s possible to spend “virtually nothing” once they’ve paid the base price for the cruise.

They said: “If you want, you can spend virtually nothing but your cruise fare. You’ll have access to the main dining room, the buffet, probably other things like a pizza shop, burgers by the pool, that kind of thing.

“Excursions are extra, but you don’t have to do them. Depending on the port, there’s often (but not always) fun to be had just getting off the ship and exploring the town.”

Guests can usually just get off the ship and explore by themselves. Passengers should bear in mind that some ports are further outside the city and they may require transport to reach the centre.

Many cities have free attractions such as museums, galleries or parks where tourists can spend the day.

The passenger added: “I don’t get the drink package because I don’t drink all that much. I bring a couple of bottles of wine on the ship, then I buy drinks when I want.”

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A drinks package may be worth it if you plan on drinking a lot of alcoholic drinks while you’re away.

Another guest added: “Most food is included on almost all lines. Certainly, enough food that you will not go hungry even if you do not pay a cent over the fare.

“There are also some fancy dining options that are an upcharge. You really don’t have to do these.

‌“They’re nice, but for your first cruise, literally all of the places are new, trying out the included places first is totally first.”

The largest cruise ships will usually have several restaurants onboard and guests will always be able to eat at the buffet for free.

If you’re looking to save money, it’s also a good idea to cruise out of season and keep an eye out for deals.