Cruises can feel almost all-inclusive, but there are still extra things you can pay for. Your ticket usually covers your room, food, shows, and travel between places. But it doesn’t include everything.

You can cruise without spending any extra money. Most people don’t.

Things like WiFi, drinks, trips ashore, and photos can slowly add up. Some extras are worth it. Others are not.

We asked #cruise #travellers which cruise extras they think are the biggest rip-offs. Here’s what they said.

1. WiFi

WiFi was mentioned more than anything else.

Cruise ship WiFi is very expensive and often slow. You might pay up to £25 a day, sometimes just for one device. You also usually have to buy it for the whole cruise, even if it doesn’t work well.

That feels bad when you remember you can get home internet for about £25 a month.

Cruise WiFi costs more because it uses satellites, but many people still think the price is too high.

When it’s worth it:
If you need to work or really want to stay online, you may have no choice. Book it before your cruise, as it’s usually cheaper.

When to skip it:
If you can, take a break from your phone and use free WiFi in ports instead.

2. Shore Excursions

Trips booked through the cruise line are easy, but they are often very expensive. A tour might cost £60–£120 per person, even though the same trip could be much cheaper if booked on your own.

You’re mostly paying for convenience, not a better trip.

When they’re worth it:
If you want zero stress and like everything organised for you.

How to save money:
Book with trusted third-party tour companies. They are often cheaper and have smaller groups.

3. Drinks Packages

#Drinks packages sound great: unlimited drinks for one price. But they can cost £25 to over £100 per person, per day.

Most cruise lines also make every adult in the cabin buy one, even if one person hardly drinks.

To get good value, you have to drink a lot. That can take the fun out of it.

When it’s worth it:
If you drink lots of soft drinks, coffee, and alcohol every day and don’t want to think about prices.

When to skip it:
If you only have a few drinks a day. Paying as you go is often cheaper.

4. Spa Treatments

Cruise spas sound lovely, but they are very pricey. A massage is often $150 or more, which is much more than on land.

Some people also feel pressured to buy expensive products after their treatment.

When it’s worth it:
If you find a discount, especially on port days when the spa is quieter.

When to skip it:
If you’re happy using the free hot tubs and relaxation areas already included.

5. Photos

Cruise photographers take photos everywhere. The pictures are usually nice, but they are expensive. One photo can cost £25 or more, and full photo packages can be hundreds.

Most people already have a phone that takes great pictures.

When they’re worth it:
If you want one special photo as a keepsake.

How to save money:
Only buy your favourites, or wait until the end of the cruise when deals are sometimes offered.

6. Speciality Dining

Speciality restaurants cost extra, often £30–£100 per person.

The food can be good, but many people feel it’s not much better than the free dining already included.

When it’s worth it:
For a special occasion or if there’s a restaurant you really want to try.

When to skip it:
If you’re happy with the main dining room and buffet – most people are.

7. Private Lounges and VIP Areas

Some ships offer paid VIP areas with quiet spaces or guaranteed sun loungers. These can cost £25–£100 per day.

When they’re worth it:
If you really want peace, quiet, and space.

When to skip it:
If you’re happy using the free areas around the ship.

8. Drinks (especially bottled water)

Bottled water can cost £4 per bottle, which adds up fast.

How to save money:
Bring a reusable water bottle. Cruise ship tap water is safe to drink, even if it doesn’t always taste great.

9. Onboard Shopping

Cruise shops sell jewellery, watches, and art. These are often sold as 'great deals' but many items are cheaper back home.

Art auctions are a common complaint. People often find the same art much cheaper elsewhere.

Tip:
Don’t rush. Take a photo, do some research later, and compare prices.

Final thoughts

#Cruises are a fun and relaxing way to travel, but extras can quickly make them expensive.

WiFi, drinks, spas, and excursions can all cost a lot if you’re not careful.

The best way to save money is to plan ahead. Decide what matters to you, skip what doesn’t, and remember that many of the best parts of a cruise are already included.