The best things in life are free—and that’s especially true on a cruise ship. Imagine enjoying complimentary champagne, no-cost room service, free specialty dining, and even some memorabilia. These perks might sound like expensive upgrades, but it’s all about knowing where to look and who to ask.
It’s great to know you can score some fantastic cruise freebies on board. After all, you’ve already paid a hefty sum for your cruise, drinks, and excursions, so a little extra swag is always a nice bonus. Whether it’s hidden perks, cabin extras, or surprises from the crew, you’ll be amazed at what’s up for grabs.
How to Get Free Things on a Cruise Ship
Some of the best freebies I’ve scored on cruise ships came from guest services or by attending shopping shows and art auctions. I’ve also met cruisers who enter raffles or competitions, winning perks like specialty dining, champagne, and even shore excursions. You might even land some free perks by joining in on onboard shows.
My cruise experience has also taught me that the best way to earn perks is to be extremely kind to the crew. On every cruise, I always try to build rapport with bartenders, cabin attendants, and dining room staff. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed surprise gifts, free drinks, and snacks. If you’re looking for more ways to connect with your cabin attendant, take a look at the best questions to ask your cabin attendant for more perks.
I also came across a story about a cruiser who, being a sound engineer, helped fix a technical issue on board. The crew thanked them with a complimentary meal at a specialty restaurant and a free shore excursion.
Celebrating a special event on your cruise? Whether it’s a retirement, anniversary, honeymoon, or birthday, let the cruise line know ahead of time. One couple celebrating their 50th anniversary received flowers and a gift package with complimentary champagne, tote bags, and hats.
Free Things to Get on a Cruise
It may seem that cruise lines are determined to rip off passengers from the moment we click a book. If it’s not expensive drink packages, it’s exorbitant WiFi charges, shops, spa treatments, and overpriced shore excursions.
Of course, you can get additional perks by upgrading your stateroom or earning loyalty points. Also, some luxury cruise lines are 100% all-inclusive and include a ton of perks. But those “freebies” cost money in terms of expensive ticket prices.
What cruise perks can you enjoy without breaking any rules or spending extra? Here are some freebies you might not know you’re entitled to.
Extra food and custom meals
Cannot choose between two tantalizing entrées? Or would you like to order pasta with your steak? Don’t worry! You can order what you want—within reason—in the main dining room. Even if it’s not on the menu, the kitchen staff typically try to cater to all dining requests and tastes.
Do you have a nut allergy, are lactose intolerant, or have a gluten-free diet? If so, let your server know. Chefs are often more than happy to customize meals or whip up something special, especially if you have dietary preferences.
I’ve even requested a few samples of multiple desserts because I couldn’t choose. Let’s be honest: how can you choose just one item from a menu?
That said, here’s a little tip: some cruise lines are starting to charge for those extra dishes. It’s always wise to ask if seconds—or thirds—are still complimentary. Otherwise, you could be in for a surprise when that final bill arrives.
Free drinks and champagne
Always check the daily schedule for special events that serve complimentary drinks. Free champagne and, sometimes, cocktails are typically on offer at art auctions, seminars, and loyalty program events. And the good news? You don’t have to spend anything to get your hands on free bubbly.
You can also get drinks for free by attending the captain’s welcome party. This could be a formal event in the theater on embarkation day or a speech and toast in the atrium. Whatever the case, you can usually enjoy drinks without paying at these events.
Room service
Did you know that most cruise lines include room service—at least for breakfast—in the cabin price? Imagine waking up, lounging on your balcony, and getting a sumptuous breakfast and hot coffee delivered to your cabin. No waiting in line, dealing with frustrated passengers, or looking for a quiet table.
To take advantage of free room service, you must order a continental breakfast the night before. I find it’s the perfect way to start my day, especially if I plan to stay onboard during a port day.
Just be aware that most cruise lines charge for room service during other times. For example, Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean don’t charge for room service between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. However, Royal Caribbean charges a room service fee for passengers ordering an American Breakfast. Norwegian Cruise Line, on the other hand, charges for all breakfast room service orders.
Complimentary cakes and celebration gifts
It seems that on a cruise, you “can have your cake and eat it.” To get free cake, give staff a heads-up about a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion. Also, you may get a surprise complimentary gift like chocolates or a bottle of wine in your cabin.
I’d recommend contacting Guest Services on the first day of your cruise to let them know about a special occasion. Or if you book a cruise through a travel agent, get them to pass on the details.
On an MSC cruise, I recall mentioning my birthday to my cabin attendant. The next evening, a cake with candles arrived at my table in the main dining room, complete with a serenade. This wonderful surprise made a special event even more memorable.
Free specialty dining or discounts
Do you want to know the secret of getting a free meal at a specialty restaurant or complimentary alcoholic beverages? Participate in an onstage game or show. Cruise lines often reward passengers with free perks for adding to a night’s entertainment. The only thing it may cost you is a few blushes.
Free ice cream and snacks
Fancy cooling off in the hot Caribbean or Mediterranean sun? If so, head for the soft-serve ice cream machine—it’s free on most cruises. You’ll usually find it in the main buffet or somewhere near the pool. There’s no need to pay for an expensive scoop of Ben & Jerry’s or exclusive gelato.
Remember, it’s free to help yourself to snacks, popcorn, and cookies throughout the cruise. I usually take advantage of these freebies to snack during shore excursions, a late-night movie, or lounging by the pool.
But don’t overdo it. In my article What You Can Steal From a Cruise Ship, I mentioned how 10 lbs. of extra fat and an expanded waistline are two things you can take home from a vacation at no additional charge.
Free memorabilia, gifts, or artwork
Why not get your hands on free cruise memorabilia or gifts? You can sometimes pick up small prints, free samples, tote bags, charms, bracelets, or trinkets by attending events or shopping presentations. Of course, you must deal with a high-pressure sales pitch. However, stand your ground, grab your swag, and head for the pool to relax.
Keep an eye out for special events on the cruise ship’s daily schedule. The best ones are where you get free booze and a few special gifts.
Free spa vouchers
Embarkation day is the time to check out free offerings at the spa. At the very least, you may get treated to a complimentary five-minute facial treatment or massage. But I’ve found that most cruise ships offer free raffle tickets for spa treatments. The catch? There’s none apart from being present when the draw takes place.
Remember that the spa’s freebies are intended to entice you back and encourage you to pay for treatments. I’ve also found that the “event” can last an hour or so and get quite crowded. So you might want to decide if it’s the best way to spend your first day on board. I usually give it a miss.
Free cabin upgrades or perks
Here’s the truth: while it’s uncommon, there’s no harm in swinging by Guest Services and politely asking about a free cabin upgrade. Cruise lines don’t always sail at full capacity, and they often hold a few rooms for last-minute bookings. Once the ship sets sail, those rooms might go unused. After docking at the first port, it doesn’t hurt to check if any complimentary upgrades are available.
That said, upgrades are more often secured during the booking process, particularly if you select an upgrade option or have higher loyalty status with the cruise line. But even then, sometimes the upgraded room may not have the most ideal location. Still, if you’re lucky, you could find yourself in a better stateroom without spending extra. And if you score a suite, expect some exclusive perks!
A smarter strategy? Keep an eye on price drops. I’ve occasionally managed to rebook a balcony cabin for the price of an interior when promotions pop up. Booking through a travel agent can also come with extra perks. They sometimes have access to deals or offers you might not easily find online, making it worth considering.
Free onboard WiFi
Before you get too excited, it’s important to manage expectations—free unlimited WiFi onboard isn’t a common perk. While some cruise lines offer limited internet access with certain cabins or as part of specific packages, free WiFi is generally the exception, not the rule. For example, Viking Cruises does offer complimentary WiFi to all passengers, but this isn’t standard across the industry. Most cruise lines, at a minimum, provide free WiFi access for their ship’s app, allowing you to stay updated with onboard information.
For savvy cruisers looking to stay connected without paying onboard fees, a helpful trick is to find free WiFi hotspots while in port. Many cafes and restaurants in port cities offer public access, making it easier to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Branded playing cards, games, or a small sewing kit
You can usually pick up several freebies at Guest Services to take home some branded memorabilia. The best free gifts I’ve found are playing cards, a sewing kit, and small travel-sized board games. Playing cards is a great way to pass the time with travel companions or new friends I meet onboard.
The best news is that handouts from Guest Services are free to take them home with you. While you’re there, look for free postcards and other souvenirs.
Free nausea medication
Are you feeling a bit queasy onboard? Don’t rush to buy overpriced seasickness meds from the ship’s store. Instead, go to guest services or the medical center and ask for complimentary motion sickness medication. Although I always recommend packing a first-aid kit, including nausea meds, you can get them onboard if you forget.
Free onboard classes or events
Learning new skills is one of the best things I enjoy on a cruise ship. And many of the onboard classes are free. Some free classes I’ve enjoyed include dancing, fencing, and cooking lessons. I’ve also attended wine tastings (another way to get free wine on board), art seminars, photography lessons, and napkin folding.
Check out the daily schedule to discover what’s on while the ship is in port.
Complimentary childcare or kids’ clubs
Are you traveling with kids? If so, you’ll be pleased to know you don’t have to pay for daytime and early evening childcare. Children ages 3 to 12 can participate in immersive learning activities while parents enjoy well-earned adult-only time.
Onboard activities for kids include high-tech games, scavenger hunts, movies, arts and crafts, sports, and science experiments. For teens, supervised activities include foosball, parties, and the latest PlayStation, X-Box, and Nintendo games.
Remember that you may have to pay for childcare if children are under 3 years old. Also, late-evening babysitting is usually a paid-for service.
Souvenirs from your cabin
Did you know your cabin is a treasure trove of goodies you can take home with you? Your take-home stash can include branded pens, stationery, postcards, individual toiletries, cable tidies, and your daily program. You can also be cheeky and ask your cabin steward for a few more pens or other freebies.
Free prizes for participating in cruise ship trivia games
Fancy getting your hands on a free bottle of wine, branded hats, t-shirts, water bottles, and other useful items? If so, take part in onboard trivia games. Some of the most fun games are those based on the ports of call on the cruise itinerary. It’s a great way to learn more about the exotic locations you visit.
Apart from winning some great freebies, I find that participating in trivia games is an excellent way to meet people.
Extra bed linen
Your helpful cabin attendant will happily provide extra bed linen or pillows at no additional charge. So, do you need an extra blanket, a softer or harder pillow, or more towels? Just ask. Do you want extra bed sheets so kids can make a fun makeshift fort? Just ask. Remember, your cabin steward wants to ensure your voyage is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Free laundry and other services
Many cruisers don’t realize that free laundry perks can be part of their cruise experience, but it largely depends on the cruise line and your cabin type or loyalty status. For example, some premium cabins and higher-tier loyalty members on lines like Royal Caribbean may get a complimentary laundry service day as part of their perks.
If you’re looking to save, it’s a great idea to check with Guest Services or research your ship’s offerings before paying for tokens or valet laundry. For more tips on how loyalty programs can get you free perks like laundry services, check out my article on cruise loyalty programs.
Meet the Captain: A Free Memory You Can Capture
One of the best free moments on a cruise is snapping a picture with the captain! During formal dinners or special meet-and-greet events, you’ll often have the chance to meet the captain and senior crew. While professional photos taken by the ship’s photographer come with a fee, you can always take your own photo for free—making it a memorable keepsake without the extra cost.
Check the daily schedule to find out when these meet-and-greet opportunities are happening, and don’t forget your camera!
Final Words: How to Maximize Free Perks on a Cruise
Scoring freebies on a cruise is easier than you might think—be polite, mention special occasions, and don’t hesitate to ask. Whether it’s free drinks, desserts, or even a cabin upgrade, a little initiative can lead to big savings. Cruises are full of hidden perks that many passengers overlook, so make sure you’re taking advantage of them.
For even more tips, check out my articles on things you can take from cruise ships without getting into trouble and cruise loyalty programs to maximize your savings and score exclusive perks. These insights will help you sail smoothly while making the most of every freebie available. Happy cruising, and may your next trip be full of the best perks!
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