Cruising is not just about the destinations you visit, but also about the experiences you have on the ship. Today’s cruise ships are floating resorts offering an array of entertainment and activities. Understanding what is included in your cruise fare and what comes with an additional cost can help you maximize your enjoyment without breaking the bank. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of onboard entertainment and activity options, highlighting free versus paid experiences and providing advice on where to invest your leisure budget.
Free Onboard Entertainment and Activities
1. Live Shows and Performances
Most mainstream cruise lines include a variety of live performances in the cruise fare. These can range from Broadway-style productions and live bands to magic shows and comedy acts. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, are renowned for their high-caliber productions. Attending these shows is a great way to enjoy top-notch entertainment at no extra cost.
2. Pools and Water Slides
Almost all ships come with pools and hot tubs that are free for all passengers. Family-friendly cruise lines like Carnival and Disney often feature elaborate water slides and splash pads, which are also included in your fare.
3. Fitness Center
Access to the ship’s fitness center is typically included. Here, you can use treadmills, weights, and other gym equipment. Some ships also offer complimentary fitness classes, though it’s worth noting that specialty classes like yoga or Pilates might incur an additional charge.
4. Kids’ Clubs
Families cruising with children can take advantage of complimentary kids’ clubs offered by lines such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. These clubs provide age-appropriate activities and are supervised by trained staff, allowing parents some time to relax.
5. Movies and Game Nights
Outdoor movie nights under the stars are a common feature on many ships, including those operated by Princess Cruises. Indoor cinemas and game nights (like trivia and bingo) are also popular free options.
Paid Onboard Entertainment and Activities
1. Specialty Dining
While meals in the main dining room and buffet are included, specialty dining venues typically come with an extra charge. These restaurants offer a more exclusive dining experience with specialty cuisines such as steakhouses, sushi bars, and gourmet French eateries. Lines like Norwegian Cruise Line often offer dining packages that can reduce the cost per meal.
2. Spa and Salon Services
Onboard spas offer a range of services from massages and facials to haircuts and manicures. These services are not included in your cruise fare and can sometimes be quite pricey. Booking spa treatments on port days can often save you money as many ships offer discounts to encourage bookings when most passengers are ashore.
3. Excursions and Specialty Experiences
Shore excursions, although not strictly onboard activities, are an additional expense. Similarly, some ships offer behind-the-scenes tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes that cost extra. These experiences can be worth the splurge for the unique insights and enjoyment they provide.
4. Internet Access
While increasingly more ships are offering connectivity, Wi-Fi is rarely free and can be expensive. Purchasing an internet package at the beginning of your cruise is generally more cost-effective than paying as you go.
5. Onboard Shopping and Art Auctions
Shopping boutiques and art auctions on cruise ships are tempting but remember purchases come with a duty-free price tag. It’s best to budget for any onboard shopping to avoid a surprisingly high end-of-cruise bill.
Tips for Managing Your Onboard Entertainment Budget
1. Prioritize Your Interests
Before you cruise, think about what activities and experiences are most important to you and your travel companions. If live theater is a passion, plan your evening around the nightly shows. If culinary experiences are your thing, set aside money for a specialty dining experience.
2. Check for Packages
Many cruise lines offer packages that might include drinks, Wi-Fi, and even excursions at a reduced rate. Booking these can save money over purchasing services individually on the ship.
3. Take Advantage of Port Days
When the ship is in port, many passengers disembark, leaving the onboard facilities less crowded. This is a perfect time to enjoy the pools, water slides, and other amenities that might be too busy on sea days.
4. Explore Complimentary Offerings
Each evening, your cabin will typically receive a newsletter listing the next day’s activities. Review it to spot free activities that you might otherwise overlook.
5. Set a Daily Budget
Decide how much you want to spend each day on paid activities and stick to it. This can help prevent a shock when you get your final bill at the end of the cruise.
Conclusion
Cruise ships offer a wealth of entertainment options to suit any taste and budget. By understanding the full array of what’s available for free and what costs extra, you can make informed choices that enhance your experience without overspending. Whether it’s enjoying the free performances, splurging on a spa treatment, or dining under the stars at a specialty restaurant, every cruise offers ample opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Plan wisely, and you’ll find that you can enjoy a rich array of experiences tailored to your tastes and budget.