The Ultimate Guide to Cruising Without Paying Extra

I’ve taken enough cruises to know that you can enjoy life at sea without spending a single extra dollar beyond the cost of your cruise fare. In fact, I’ve been on trips where I didn’t pay extra for food, drinks, specialty restaurants, gifts, or entertainment—and still had an incredible vacation. 

From included meals and complimentary beverages to onboard activities and entertainment, cruise ships are packed with options that let you experience everything the ship has to offer without opening your wallet. With a little planning and some insider knowledge, it’s completely possible to have a fun, full cruise experience without any extra spending.

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Take Advantage of Included Dining

Cruise fares already include a variety of meals. Buffets, main dining rooms, and casual cafes provide plenty of food throughout the day. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even snacks—all included.

Specialty restaurants are tempting, but they usually cost extra. Sticking to included dining options is an easy way to save money while still enjoying delicious meals.

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Make the Most of Complimentary Beverages

Most cruise ships include coffee, tea, water, and sometimes juices at no extra cost. Instead of paying for sodas or specialty drinks, take full advantage of what’s included. Not only does this save money, but it also opens up opportunities to get a little creative with your beverages.

For example, you can mix coffee and hot chocolate to create your own mocha or cappuccino-style drink in your stateroom. Feeling adventurous? Try blending ice cream with lemonade for a sweet, fizzy treat, or add a splash of juice to sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail.

If you like flavored beverages, consider bringing drink enhancers or powdered mixes from home. A few drops of flavoring can turn plain water into a fruity refresher, or add a packet of instant lemonade or iced tea to create your own version of a specialty drink. Small tweaks like these make your drinks feel indulgent without costing a dime, and they’re perfect for sipping by the pool, on your balcony, or while walking around the ship.

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Enjoy Entertainment Without Spending a Dime

Cruising doesn’t mean you have to buy tickets, pay for excursions, or spend extra on onboard entertainment. Most cruise ships include live shows, poolside games, trivia, and other activities as part of your fare—but there are plenty of ways to enjoy entertainment even when you want a quiet night in your stateroom.

Bring your own devices—phones, tablets, laptops, or e-readers—and load them up with content before you sail. Download movies, TV shows, or streaming series to watch offline. Many streaming platforms, like Netflix or Disney+, allow you to download episodes ahead of time so you can enjoy them without needing internet access.

Games are another great way to pass the time. Load your devices with puzzle apps, card games, or multiplayer games you can play offline. E-readers or tablets can double as portable libraries, letting you catch up on books or magazines during sea days or while lounging on deck.

By preparing entertainment in advance, you can relax in your stateroom, on your balcony, or by the pool without spending a single extra dollar—perfect for quiet downtime between meals and activities. 

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Skip Onboard Extras

Gifts, souvenirs, and specialty items in onboard shops are tempting, but they’re not necessary for an enjoyable cruise. Instead, focus on experiences: the sunset on deck, live music, poolside fun, or walking around the ship’s unique areas like Central Park or the promenade.

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Bring or Collect Snacks

Many ships have grab-and-go options, casual cafes, or complimentary snacks you can take back to your stateroom. This helps avoid paying for snacks, late-night treats, or overpriced port options. On some ships, you can even collect pastries, fruit, or breakfast items to enjoy later in the day.

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Plan for Shore Days

Shore excursions can be fun, but they often come with a hefty price tag. If you’re looking to keep your cruise completely budget-friendly, there are usually plenty of ways to enjoy a port without paying for a full-day tour. Even without an organized excursion, you can explore the local area, take in the sights, and enjoy the atmosphere—all while sticking to included meals and activities.

Our strategy is simple: we usually go into port in the morning to wander and explore, then head back to the ship for lunch, taking advantage of the included buffet or dining room. After a relaxed meal, we often return to the port to enjoy the afternoon, whether it’s shopping at local markets, strolling along the waterfront, or taking photos of the city and harbor. This way, we get the best of both worlds—a taste of the port without paying for expensive food or excursions—and we never feel rushed. 

Packing snacks from the ship is another money-saving trick. A few granola bars, fruit, or pastries in your bag means you can nibble while walking around port instead of buying overpriced tourist snacks. Even just waiting until you return to the ship for your next meal can save a surprising amount over the course of your cruise.

By planning your shore days thoughtfully, you can experience the local culture, enjoy your meals onboard, and stay completely within your budget—all while still having fun and making memories.

Watch for Hidden Charges

Some activities, dining options, or beverages may have additional fees. Always ask if something is included before ordering, and stick to the complimentary options to stay fully budget-friendly.

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Final Thoughts

It’s entirely possible to cruise without spending any extra money at all—no food, no drinks, no souvenirs, no excursions, and no specialty entertainment. By taking advantage of included meals, complimentary beverages, free activities, and onboard experiences, you can enjoy a full, fun, and memorable cruise without touching your wallet beyond the fare. With a little planning and awareness, you can experience everything a cruise has to offer—and still stay on budget.