Fees, taxes, and extra costs. There are plenty of them on a cruise, so here's what you should know so you can budget appropriately! Before booking a Royal Caribbean cruise, it's important to understand what is and is not included in your cruise fare. I've compiled a list of 11 fees that you should know about before booking your cruise to help you plan appropriately for your budget. These fees include port fees, Wi-Fi costs, gratuities, premium menu options, room service fees, corkage fees, thermal suite access, childcare costs, select non-alcoholic beverages, additional drink costs, and fees for certain onboard activities. By being aware of these fees upfront, you can make informed decisions and have a worry-free cruise experience!
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Port Fees
Port fees are an essential aspect of booking a cruise and can vary depending on the destination. These fees are charged by the ports of call to the cruise lines, which are then passed on to the passengers. It's important to note that port fees are a mandatory expense for all passengers and are paid in full by the time of final payment. The fees can range from $185 to $295 per person, depending on the location. For example, port fees in Alaska tend to be higher than those in Europe or the Caribbean. Factors that contribute to the variation in port fees include the docking fee per passenger, the head tax, and the pilot fee. While these fees may seem like an additional cost, they are crucial for maintaining the ports of call and ensuring the smooth operation of the cruise.
Wi-Fi
Staying connected while on a cruise is important for many passengers, and Royal Caribbean offers Wi-Fi packages for those who wish to have internet access during their voyage. The Wi-Fi package available on Royal Caribbean ships is called Voom Surf and Stream. With this package, passengers have 24-hour access to the internet without any restrictions on what they can access. Whether it's browsing the web, sending and receiving emails, chatting on messenger apps, or streaming favorite TV shows, music, and movies, the Voom Surf and Stream package allows for uninterrupted connectivity. It's essential to factor in the cost of Wi-Fi when planning your cruise, as it is not included in the cruise fare. Additionally, it's recommended to book the Wi-Fi package before your cruise to take advantage of any pre-cruise discounts and save money.
Gratuities
Royal Caribbean has an automatic gratuity system in place to ensure that the hardworking crew members are compensated for their exceptional service. The current automatic gratuity rate is $18 per person per day for standard cabins, which include junior suites or below. For suites, the rate is slightly higher at $20.50 per person per day. These gratuities are split among the crew members and are assessed on a daily basis for each guest, regardless of age. It's important to note that gratuities are a non-negotiable expense and are paid in full by the time of final payment. However, guests have the option to prepay gratuities either at the time of booking or by contacting Royal Caribbean or their travel agent. Prepaying gratuities can help in planning and budgeting for the additional costs associated with the cruise.
Dining
Dining is an important aspect of any cruise, and Royal Caribbean offers a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences. While the main dining room is included in the cruise fare, it's worth noting that some menu items may have an additional cost. For example, premium offerings like the main lobster tail, the Chops Grill fillet minion, and the surf and surf option come with extra charges. However, there are plenty of other delicious options available in the main dining room that do not incur any additional fees. If passengers are looking for a more intimate dining experience or want to try specialty restaurants, they can do so at an additional charge. Specialty dining options offer a higher level of service and unique culinary experiences. It's important to review the dining options and costs before the cruise to ensure that you have an unforgettable dining experience within your budget.
Room Service
Royal Caribbean offers 24-hour room service, allowing passengers to enjoy meals and snacks delivered directly to their cabins. While continental breakfast is included in the cruise fare, all other room service orders incur a fee of $7.95, in addition to an 18% gratuity. This fixed cost remains the same regardless of the number of dishes ordered. Room service provides the convenience of enjoying meals in the comfort and privacy of your cabin. It's important to remember that a small cash tip is also customary for the crew member delivering the food. Room service is a great option for those who wish to savor a meal or snack while relaxing in their cabin or enjoying the views from their balcony.
Corkage Fees
Passengers are allowed to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne onboard during embarkation day. This can be a great way to save money on beverages while on the cruise. However, it's crucial to be aware of the corkage fees if you choose to consume your own alcohol in public areas like the dining room. The corkage fee on Royal Caribbean ships is $15 per bottle. It's important to note that while some passengers may not be charged this fee, it is a rule that should be taken into consideration. Bringing your own alcohol can be a cost-effective option, but it's essential to be mindful of the rules and regulations to avoid any unforeseen charges.
Thermal Suite Access
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the thermal suite on Royal Caribbean ships is a haven of tranquility. The thermal suite offers various amenities such as heated loungers, saunas, steam rooms, and thermal pools. Access to the thermal suite can be purchased for the entire cruise at a cost of $125. This pass provides unlimited access throughout the voyage, allowing passengers to enjoy the benefits of the thermal suite at their leisure. Investing in thermal suite access can be a worthwhile expense for those who prioritize self-care and relaxation during their cruise. The cost of the thermal suite pass is often more affordable than individual spa treatments and provides a unique experience for the duration of the voyage.
Childcare
Royal Caribbean understands the importance of catering to families traveling with children. The cruise line offers complimentary Adventure Ocean programming for kids aged 3-12, providing age-appropriate activities and entertainment during the day. However, for parents who wish to enjoy some alone time in the evenings, a separate program is available for children after 10 pm. The cost of childcare during these hours is an additional fee. Additionally, Royal Caribbean provides childcare services for children under 3 years old at the Royal Babies and Tots nursery. The nursery offers a safe and nurturing environment for infants and toddlers, and the cost is $6-$8 per hour, depending on the time of day. Parents can rest assured that their children will be engaged in age-appropriate activities while they enjoy some much-needed relaxation or participate in adult-oriented activities.
Beverages
Royal Caribbean offers a selection of non-alcoholic beverages included in the base fare, such as water, milk, tea, coffee, lemonade, iced tea, flavored waters, and juices. These beverages are readily available throughout the cruise, ensuring that passengers stay hydrated and refreshed. However, for those who desire additional beverage options, Royal Caribbean provides a range of choices at an extra cost. Specialty coffees, sodas, and mocktails can be purchased individually, allowing passengers to indulge in their favorite beverages. Alternatively, guests can opt for a drink package to enjoy unlimited non-alcoholic drinks throughout their voyage. Royal Caribbean offers two non-alcoholic drink packages, the Classic soda package, and the Royal Refreshment package. These packages can be a cost-effective option for those who plan to enjoy a variety of beverages during their cruise. Additionally, guests can also purchase alcoholic beverages individually or opt for an alcoholic beverage package, such as the Deluxe beverage package, which offers unlimited alcoholic drinks for the duration of the cruise. Pre-purchasing a drink package can help save money and provide a hassle-free beverage experience.
Conclusion
As with any vacation, it's essential to be aware of the additional fees and costs associated with a cruise. Port fees, Wi-Fi, gratuities, dining options, room service, corkage fees, thermal suite access, childcare, and beverage choices can all contribute to the overall cost of a Royal Caribbean cruise. By understanding these fees and factoring them into your budget, you can plan appropriately and ensure a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of amenities and services, and while some come at an extra cost, they provide added convenience, comfort, and enjoyment during your voyage. So, whether you're looking to relax in the thermal suite, savor specialty dining options, or stay connected with Wi-Fi, considering these fees in advance will help you make informed decisions and create lasting memories on your Royal Caribbean cruise.
