How much money will you waste on your next cruise? If you book and spend like most cruisers, the answer is: more than you think. The truth is that cruise lines want you to overspend. In fact, their best “deals” are often the worst buys. And if you don’t know what to avoid, you’ll likely pay for perks that seasoned cruisers skip.
Cruise Critic forums and Reddit threads are full of posts from cruisers regretting the amount of cash they splurged on a cruise. From overpriced drink packages to expensive shore excursions and falling for hard upsells, cruise tricks designed to drain your budget lurk in every corner.
Want to skip the rookie mistakes and keep more money for the fun stuff? Keep reading—you’ll cruise smarter for it.
Booking Your Cruise Direct? Here’s Why It’s the Worst Deal on Board
Booking your cruise directly with the cruise line might feel easy, but you’ll miss out on the best deals. We’re talking discounts, loyalty perks, and hundreds in onboard credit (OBC) you could have scored through a travel agent (TA). That’s why seasoned travelers almost never book through the cruise line.
Cruise Critic forums and Facebook groups are packed with first-timers regretting this. Many say they paid the same base fare as friends, yet got no bonus perks. Some lost out on cabin upgrades or extra OBC because they didn’t know to ask. Travel agents can also advise on the best cruise itineraries and help you snag secret deals.
Here’s the thing: cruise lines never undercut travel agents. Worst case scenario? You’ll get the same price a travel agent would offer. But in many cases, TAs will offer better prices and more incentives. They also have insider access to special deals that cruise lines don’t provide.
Want to make a smart move on your next cruise? Read How a Travel Agent Can Save You Money on Cruise Booking.
Shore Excursions That Cost Twice As Much—And Leave You in a Crowd
Here’s where many cruisers waste hundreds without knowing it. Booking shore excursions through the cruise line might seem “safer,” but do you really want to pay double what local operators charge for the exact same tour? Or worse, a crowded version of it.
Cruise Critic forums have a ton of regret-filled posts on this. Many say they shelled out $200–$300 for excursions they later saw for $60–$100 when booked privately. And it’s not just the price—independent tours usually mean smaller groups, better guides, and more flexible experiences.
Worried about making it back to the ship on time? Don’t. Seasoned travelers point out that many reputable operators even offer “back-to-ship” guarantees, just like the cruise line.
The best advice? Research tours on port boards, TripAdvisor, and Facebook groups. Book direct, save a bundle, and enjoy a far better day ashore.
Further reading: Cruise Experts Reveal 40 Hacks That Saved Them Thousands (Most People Miss This!).
The $1,000 Booze Package Most People Don’t Actually Use
Would you usually splurge $80 a day on alcohol? Most people don’t, but cruise lines seem to think that it’s normal. Of course, all-inclusive drinks seem like a bargain until you do the math. You need to drink between 6 and 8 drinks a day just to break even.
It’s a costly mistake. Many rookie cruisers forget to factor in port days, early mornings, excursions, and drink fatigue. This can make you overpay for drinks or drink more than you usually would just to get your money’s worth.
Seasoned travelers recommend a simple trick: estimate your drinking habits first. Many now skip the package, bring their own wine (where allowed), or watch for drink specials onboard. You’ll save far more—and drink only what you actually enjoy.
Thinking about splurging on a beverage package? Read my article first: Cruise Drink Package Mistakes.
The $70 Shore Bus that the Terminal Sells for $35
Want to know one of the easiest ways to waste money in port? Booking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour through the cruise line. Many cruisers pay $60-$70 for the convenience, only to discover the same tickets are selling at the terminal for half the price. For a group of four, that’s a hefty add-on.
Cruise Critic forums and Facebook groups are full of these stories. Passengers feel ripped off because of paying double for the same bus ride. That’s why seasoned travelers always check local prices first. In most cases, buying direct saves a small fortune and gets you the exact same seat on the bus for half the price.
So, do your research and find where to buy bus tickets at the port.
Cruise Line Travel Insurance That May Not Actually Cover You
Buying insurance through the cruise line seems a wise move until you discover huge gaps in the coverage when you claim. Many cruisers are shocked to discover that cruise line insurance rarely covers pre- and post-cruise travel, private excursions, and a ton of other things in the small print.
Cruise forums are full of regrets. One passenger shared on Reddit, “My flight was delayed, I missed departure, and I thought my cruise line insurance covered it. Turns out, I was wrong. Big mistake!”
Other facts I’ve discovered are that sometimes payouts are in cruise credit, not cash, and coverage limits are often lower than those of traditional travel insurance.
Most seasoned cruisers recommend buying separate travel insurance. Others save money with an annual policy. You’ll get better coverage, real cash payouts, and protection for your entire trip, not just the days onboard.
Want to cruise with absolute peace of mind? Don’t miss my article: Travel Insurance for Cruisers—it could save your trip (and your wallet).
Overpriced Internet Packages That Still Don’t Always Deliver
The good news is: Cruise ship WiFi is better than it used to be. The bad news? Not by much. Many cruise guests still complain about slow speeds, patchy connections, and sky-high prices. It’s one of the most common complaints in forums. “Paid $200 for WiFi and could barely upload photos to social media” is a familiar story.
We get it—many of us want to be connected at sea. But don’t fall into the biggest trap of buying internet onboard at full price. Most lines offer discounted packages if you book in advance, sometimes 30%–50% off the regular price. Buy late, and you might pay double for sluggish service that barely covers the basics.
Top tip: Wait until you’re onshore in a port and find a WiFi hotspot at a cafe or restaurant to upload photos and check email for free.
Cruise Line Flights With Routes and Layovers That’ll Make You Cry
Booking flights with the cruise line sounds convenient until you see the schedule, routes, and awkward layovers. Forum posts are full of regret—odd routings, long layovers, and inconvenient flight times. Some even miss out on direct flights they could’ve booked cheaper themselves.
It varies by cruise line. Some, like Holland America, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean, offer decent air programs, and you can book the flights you want. Others, like NCL, draw frequent complaints. Either way, experienced cruisers say booking flights on your own gives you more control, better prices, and better schedules.
Unless you need the line’s “air guarantee,” it pays to shop around. For flexibility and comfort? Skip cruise air and fly smart. Just remember to plan a buffer day and fly into the embarkation port a day early to be on the safe side.
That ‘Convenient’ Cruise Transfer? It Costs More Than Uber
It sounds easy—book a cruise line transfer, and you’re set. But many cruisers find they’ve paid double (or more) for the same simple ride.
Forum threads are packed with comparisons like: “Paid $50 per person for a cruise bus—Uber was $35 total.” Cruise transfers also tend to operate on fixed schedules, often resulting in long waits and early departures. Savvy travelers almost always check ride-share apps first or book private transfers.
Unless you need special assistance, skip the overpriced bus. Book your own ride—and arrive faster, cheaper, and on your own time.
Cruise Line Hotels That Block Your Loyalty Points
The convenience of booking a hotel through the cruise line before or after a cruise seems like a good idea. However, there’s a catch: you’ll often pay more, and you won’t earn cruise loyalty points. Travelers on forums frequently mention that they could have booked the same room more cheaply directly through the hotel.
Another thing: Cruise packages often bundle airport transfers, inflating the price even more. Unless you’re chasing a bundle deal, cruise line hotels are one to skip if you want to stretch your budget.
Overpriced Snacks and Bottled Water that Cost More Than a Meal
Don’t fall into the trap of paying over-the-top prices for simple things like bottled water and snacks. Those bottles at $5 a pop and minibar snacks—like $7 for a Snickers—add up fast.
So, why not do what experienced cruisers do? Bring a refillable water bottle and fill up at the ship’s water stations. The water is clean and safe to drink. Also, tuck some of your favorite granola bars into your carry-on, and save a fortune when sugar cravings hit.
Photo Packages That Sound Like a Deal—But Aren’t
It must be one of the biggest cruise ship rip-offs—the photo package. As soon as you board, it can feel like you’re the star of the show. Flashbulbs pop the moment you step onboard—by the gangway, at dinner, in the atrium. Ship photographers seem to follow you everywhere. But when it’s time to buy? That “celebrity” treatment comes with a hefty price tag.
Cruise photo packages often run into hundreds of dollars, and that’s for digital versions. So you’ll still have to pay to get them printed. The biggest regret is that many cruisers admit they barely used them. Forums are packed with posts like, “We bought the package and ended up with three photos worth keeping.”
The best advice? Review photos mid-cruise and buy only the shots you love. Your wallet will thank you.
Spa Products You’ll Use Once—If That
Post-treatment spa sales pitch—it seems all part of the “service” cruise lines provide. After a relaxing massage or facial, many cruisers walk out with pricey spa products they’ll barely use again. It’s one of the most common regrets on Cruise Critic and Reddit.
Many passengers report feeling pressured or caught off guard. One cruiser shared their remorse: “I bought $200 worth of creams, and they’re still sitting at home.” Another reported how they found the same products cheaper in their local beauty store.
Seasoned cruisers enjoy the spa pampering and brace themselves for the upselling. With steely determination, they leave the spa with nothing but a smile.
That Cute Cruise T-Shirt and Mug? You’ll Never Use Them Again
That logo T-shirt looks fun on day one. Same with the cruise mug or souvenir tote. And what about the plastic replica of the cruise ship? For many cruisers, these impulse buys end up buried in a drawer, never to see the light of day once they’re home.
Many forums posts are from travelers who now avoid “souvenir traps.” Many say they bought shirts or mugs because they were caught up in the excitement of the cruise. Then, once home, they realized they’d never wear or use them again. The designs tend to be basic, the prices are high, and the appeal fades fast.
Savvy cruisers skip the logo shops or buy tacky souvenirs with unused OBC. If you want a keepsake, look for something local or personal from port—not another dust collector.
Casino Buy-Ins That Burn Your “Free” Onboard Credit
Many rookie cruisers complain that free OBC never disappears faster than in the onboard casino. Some assume that because it’s free, blowing it in the casino is fine. But, unless you track spending carefully, it can be gone before you know it.
Even seasoned gamblers get burned in ship casinos—because they’re not Vegas. The odds are worse, the payouts smaller, and the house takes a bigger edge. Many cruisers head in expecting familiar games and end up spending more, winning less, and regretting it fast.
Savvy cruisers use OBC on perks with guaranteed value—like drinks, dining, or WiFi. The casino? That’s a high-stakes money risk.
Further reading: 19 Cruise Casino Lies, Traps & Costly Mistakes You’ll Realize Too Late.
The “Luxury” Jewelry That’s Worth Pennies Back Home
As the adage goes, “All that sparkles isn’t gold.” And it’s the same in the fancy onboard jewelry shops—overpriced goods with prices that don’t reflect their real value. Of course, cruise lines would have you think you’re getting the “real deal” at the “special cruise price today only!”
But many cruisers later realize those glittering jewelry “bargains” weren’t bargains at all. Forum threads are full of buyers who got home only to find their piece was worth far less than they paid. It’s not exactly a scam, but the markup and hype sure make it feel that way.
Savvy cruisers don’t fall for the sparkle at sea. If you want lasting value, buy from trusted jewelers on land, not from the ship’s hard-sell counters.
Watches “75% Off”—Still a Bad Deal
Nothing screams impulse buy like a fancy watch “marked down” at 75%. Bargain of the century? Probably not. Cruise shops love this trick—big signs, limited-time offers, flashy displays. But seasoned cruisers warn: those prices are inflated to begin with.
Forums are full of posts from buyers who later checked online and found the same watch for a lower price. Many claim that the so-called discounts were merely hype. It’s not illegal, but it leaves plenty of regret if you fall for the sales tactic.
Here’s the golden rule about cruise ship bargains: If you wouldn’t buy that fancy item at home, don’t grab it at sea. The real deals won’t be shouting from a display case.
$400 Art Auction? You’ll Regret That by the Time You Get Home
Another trick cruise lines use to sink your budget faster than a leaky lifeboat is the art auction. Of course, the art auction seems fun, and who doesn’t want a complimentary glass of bubbly? But don’t let the fast-talking host and “one-day-only” prices dupe you. Many seasoned cruisers say it’s one of the quickest ways to overspend onboard.
Cruise forums and Reddit threads are full of regret stories from passengers who bought art onboard. The impulse felt exciting, and they thought they were getting a bargain. The reality hit when they realized the prices were inflated and the resale value was low.
So, enjoy the show and the experience, but keep your wallet shut unless you’re a regular auctiongoer or art buyer.
Smarter Spending at Sea—Now You Know What to Skip
Cruise lines are masters at inflating prices and pushy upsells. Many passengers waste money buying things they could have skipped—or gotten cheaper—if they knew what seasoned cruisers know. Now you also know.
By spotting what’s worth avoiding, you’ll cruise smarter, spend less, and enjoy more. Whether it’s drinks, tours, or those shiny shipboard “deals,” you’ll spot the worst-value buys and avoid the common traps.
Related articles:
