The Guest Services desk onboard a cruise ship is undoubtedly the go-to spot for resolving many problems, concerns, and questions.
One Carnival cruise guest, however, feels perhaps that desk may be responsible for too much, and offers a suggestion to help relieve long lines, particularly when account problems may need quick action. Could a new department be the answer?
This frequent Carnival guest noted that maybe the team at Guest Services is responsible for too broad a range of issues. They took the matter to John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, with their idea.
“On each ship I have been on people, including myself, have endured the long lines at Guest Services. I found out last night on the Jubilee, they are handling many, many things on the ship,”the guest explained.
It is true that Guest Services is the best place for passengers to resolve problems with lost luggage, missing or damaged Sail & Sign cards, problems with onboard accounts, staff compliments or complaints, special needs, missing people, gratuities questions, and much more.
This can create long lines at times, but this guest wonders whether or not a new department might be a possible solution that could alleviate lines and reduce how much individual team members are required to do.
“Please consider asking the beards to delegate another ‘department’ to handle things like lost luggage or other issues. It seems their workload at Guest Services is very broad in nature and they are handling a lot more than just accounts problems,”the guest suggested.
“I always hear complaints about long lines, now I have a better understanding of why. They seem to be handling too many things at the one desk. Thanks!”
Carnival Cruise Line is aware that the lines at Guest Services can be lengthy at times. In fact, one of the most used of the loyalty benefits in their “Very Important Fun Person” (VIFP) program is the priority line at the Guest Services desk reserved for Platinum and Diamond travelers.
Nevertheless, Heald did respond with an explanation of what Guest Services has always done.
“It’s like this on every ship and I think for the most part on every cruise line. It’s certainly been like this in the almost 40 years that I have been with the company,”he replied.“They do work so very very hard and yes, they handle a multitude of things. If there’s anything you ever need, they will be there.”
He does note, however, that there is no plan to introduce a new department to handle specific types of issues.
“We won’t be introducing any new departments certainly in the near future, and again if you ever need them a wonderful guest services team will be there for you,”he said.
Why Not Add a New Department?
It is important to understand that while the Guest Services team does handle a broad range of issues, they are trained to help travelers with that diverse range of concerns.
Personally, I have worked with fantastic Guest Services crew members on some very unique issues over the years. I had a scratched Sail & Sign card that needed replacing, asked for a pair of earplugs when I forgot mine at home (they happily provided them!), asked questions about an itinerary change, offered compliments about crew members, resolved a mistake on account charges, and more.
It is true that the lines can sometimes be long, it is simply because Guest Services works with a broad range of issues that a new department would not be an efficient solution.
For example, if a new “Guest Accounts” department were created just to deal with Sail & Sign accounts, that team would undoubtedly be very busy on embarkation day as guests set up their accounts with cards or cash.
Similarly, the accounts team would be busy near the end of every cruise as guests review their accounts and have questions about charges or need to settle their bills.
In between, however, that team might actually be underworked with few questions, which is not an efficient use of crew members’ time or resources.
Fortunately, the excellent training the Guest Services staff receives ensures they are well able to handle any and all concerns brought to their attention. While it may not always be possible to resolve an issue in exactly the way a guest might want, the team will always try their best to be sure everyone has a fantastic cruise.
Good news for Florida tourism revenue; bad news for traffic! On January 25, 2025, Port Canaveral in Florida, the second-busiest cruise port in the world, had its busiest day ever.
The packed port featured a whopping twenty-five vessels, and six of those were cruise ships. The port was jam-packed, and that’s not even counting the dozens of smaller yachts.
“What a day at Port Canaveral! 25 deep sea vessels—6 cruise ships, 6 cargo ships, 8 space vessels, a gambling ship, plus 4 fuel bunker barges (LNG included!)—operating at our Northside and Southside cruise terminals, cargo berths and The Cove bulkhead. Add to that many commercial fishing vessels and recreational boats currently in Port.” Port Canaveral posted.
Among the ships docked in the port Saturday were Carnival Vista, Celebrity Equinox, Disney Treasure, Carnival’s Mardi Gras, Norwegian Epic, and Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas.
Carnival Vista a 133,596 gross-ton ship, first launched in 2016, is starting an eight-day Southern Caribbean itinerary.
The ship, with a passenger capacity of 4,716 people, will stop in Oranjestad in Aruba, Kralendijk on the island of Bonaire, and Grand Turk Island in Turks and Caicos before returning to Port Canaveral.
Now it continues Celebrity Cruises’ relationship with the popular port as it begins its seven-day, round-trip Eastern Caribbean voyage. It will make stops in Key West, Nassau, and Puerto Plata.
The newest cruise ship in the port was the 144,256 gross-ton, 3,466-passenger Disney Treasure. Launched in August 2024, it now departs for a seven-day Western Caribbean sailing, with stops in Cozumel, Grand Cayman Island, and Falmouth. It will then stop off at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, before returning to Port Canaveral.
Port Canaveral’s Busiest Day Ever! (Image Credit: Port Canaveral)
The 155,873 gross-ton, 5,074-passenger Norwegian Epic, meanwhile, departs for its eclectic seven-day Caribbean cruise visiting Puerto Plata, St. Thomas (USVI), Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay.
Voyager of the Seas, homeported in Port Canaveral and carrying up to 4,099 passengers, sets out on a quick five-day itinerary to Labadee and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
While some travelers found difficulty navigating the crowds, this jam-packed day is a testament to the growing popularity of the Florida port.
Huge Growth for Port Canaveral, Florida
This record day follows a record-successful year in 2024, when the port welcomed 7.6 million passengers and 911 cruise ships, bringing in $156 million in cruise ship revenue.
It also marks the beginning of a year of anticipated growth, with total projected revenues reaching $211 million, as revealed at the port’s annual “State of the Port Address” in November.
Port Canaveral holds the title for the second-busiest cruise port in the world, just slightly behind the Port of Miami. It even took the top title briefly in 2022. Port Canaveral has also won the Cruise Hive Awards‘ “Best U.S. Cruise Homeport” honor for five consecutive years, winning in 2024 with 35% of all votes.
So, just what is it about this port that draws in so many?
For one thing, it is extremely well located. Situated just east of Orlando, home of popular and exciting tourist destinations like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and, of course, Gatorland, Canaveral is a very convenient port for anyone looking for an extended vacation as well as for Florida locals.
Cruise Ships in Port Canaveral (Photo Credit: Robert Michaud)
The Florida coast also makes for quick and easy trips to highly desirable, tropical locations, such as the Caribbean, and the Eastern Coast of Mexico.
Another factor is that Port Canaveral recognizes the value of the cruise industry and works to make the experience of cruisers at the port as perfect as possible.
At the aforementioned “State of the Port Address” in November, 2024, Canaveral Port Authority CEO Capt. John Murray said the following:
“Cruise continues to be a significant segment of our business portfolio with some of the newest and largest ships in the world based at Port Canaveral. This speaks volumes to the confidence our cruise partners have in our ability to consistently deliver exceptional results for their guests.”
This cruise-friendly management philosophy seems to be doing the port well. In December, the port welcomed Carnival Venezia as its record-breaking sixteenth cruise ship to homeport there.
We look forward to more growth in the year to come.
While cruising can be a pretty budget-friendly way to travel, it’s also really easy to accidentally spend way more on your cruise than you anticipated.
From avoiding the ATM to taking your own photos, here are the twelve easiest ways not to waste money on a cruise — so you can save your cash for the cruise-related expenses that will actually make your vacation better.
During my years both cruising and working as a crew member, I’ve seen plenty of intoxicated cruisers. Many use a cruise as an excuse to let their hair down and have a little more fun than they might at home.
However, unless you’re planning on drinking from dawn to dusk and then beyond, you probably won’t get that much value out of purchasing a drink package.
Sure, it might sound like a good deal at first — one daily price for all your alcoholic beverages — but there are limits and exclusions, and you may be better served buying each drink individually.
For example, if you look at Carnival Cruise Line’s Cheers! package, which starts at just over $80 per person per day, you’ll find that you get up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day with the package.
Included drinks must be at a low price point relative to the overall drinks menu, and you get a discount on the higher-priced items on drinks menus.
Alcoholic drinks on a cruise start at around $10, with some (like beer) being even cheaper, so, for you to really get your money’s worth from a drink package, you’re going to have to drink more than eight drinks per day — and for a lot of folks, that’s just not do-able, even if they are on vacation.
A few other drinks-related tips: If you do decide to forgo the drink package and order your drinks individually, if you see a drink you’d like that comes in a souvenir glass, ask for it without the specialty glass.
You may save a few dollars. Additionally, it is possible to find a free drink here or there, such as at the Captain’s Party or during similar special occasions/events/parties, and sometimes in the casino.
2. Don’t Grab Dinner at the Specialty Restaurants
Specialty Restaurant on Norwegian Viva (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
Most cruise ships have a mix of free dining options that are included in your cruise fare, and then a selection of specialty restaurants that charge either a flat, per-person fee or a la carte prices.
The prices can really, really vary, but you can expect a “nice” dinner for two at one of these specialty restaurants to easily cost you $100-plus. Eat dinner every night at one of these specialty restaurants and you can easily find yourself spending $1,000 more than you expected on your cruise.
I’m not saying you should avoid the specialty restaurants completely, but consider ways to save some cash. For example, see if some of the specialty restaurants are open during lunch, when you can get discounted menu prices. You may also be able to find cheaper prices on embarkation day or on port days.
If you’re not a foodie or the food isn’t a big highlight of your vacation, don’t feel like you’re missing anything by not eating at these restaurants. The main dining room, buffet and other free restaurants on a cruise ship are more than enough to keep you fed.
Worried you’re not going to have a luxurious experience if you do this? Don’t be! You’ll find steaks, lobster and similar foods aplenty, each night in the main dining room.
I love a good shore excursion just as much as the next person, but, as you’re perusing your various shore excursion options ahead of your cruise, be careful not to overbook yourself.
Definitely don’t try to cram as many excursions into your itinerary as possible. If I’m booking a cruise-led excursion, I prefer to book only one excursion per port and, in some ports, no excursions at all.
Not only does this save you money, but it also will ensure that you’ll not be rushing around, having a hectic port day that’s more stressful than fun. It’ll also give you some freedom to do other things while in port.
Maybe you want to explore a little on foot, or go to a nearby beach. Just make sure you’re following our top tips for having a great day in port, and you’ll be golden.
Regarding excursions in general, some will tell you that you’ll save a lot of money by booking with third-party excursion or tour providers rather than booking your excursions with the cruise line.
While this can be true, tread carefully here. A third-party provider won’t always guarantee the same safety and reputability that the cruise line provides, and won’t be as motivated to get you back to the cruise ship before it leaves port.
4. Don’t Spend Excess Cash at the Salon, Spa or Gym
Mandara Spa on Norwegian Viva (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
I very much understand why cruisers go to the spa. Many cruise ship spas are luxurious and a treatment is a great way to unwind and relax during your vacation, or add a touch of romance to your cruise.
However, I very much do not understand why cruisers pay for salon treatments that they could get at home, or gym classes that they could get at home. If you need a haircut or manicure, get it before you leave on your cruise. Workout in the free fitness center but avoid the pricey classes.
Additionally, if you do want a spa treatment, wait to book one until the treatments go on sale. This is usually during port days.
5. Don’t Buy Anything On Board the Ship
Photo Courtesy: Starboard Cruise Services
Create a packing list before your cruise and check it twice (and probably a few more times). You want to be 100% sure that you’ve packed absolutely everything that you could need. From toiletries to OTC medications, if you think you might need it, take it. You don’t want to buy it while you’re on the ship.
Sure, you can find convenience items like these for sale on the cruise ship, but for a premium price. After all, you’re in the middle of the ocean. You have no other choice, so the cruise line can charge whatever it wants for that stick of deodorant.
Additionally, avoid all of the knick-knacks and tchotchkes for sale on the ship. You can find much better souvenirs in port. Plus, when you think of a cool souvenir that’s going to remind you of your vacation, do you really want a sun visor with the cruise line’s logo on it? Probably not.
6. Don’t Take Your Phone Off of Airplane Mode
Cruise Passenger on Phone in Pool (Photo Credit: Jacobus Djokosetio)
Unless you have a phone plan that specifically allows you to use your phone while on a cruise ship (many carriers offer cruising packages, but they must be purchased separately and do not automatically come with your cell phone plan, much like international packages), do not take your phone off of airplane mode.
If you do, you could wind up with some hefty fees and fines on your next cell phone bill.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to give up scrolling and posting entirely. Just buy a WiFi package from the cruise line. Most offer several WiFi options, so pick the most affordable one that will give you the service you need.
I find that I don’t generally need the most expensive package anyway, as I’m too busy actually enjoying the cruise rather than looking at my phone. You could go for the eSIM package designed for cruise passengers from GigSky!
7. Don’t Buy the Photos
Carnival Pixels on Mardi Gras (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Even as a former crew member, I can admit that the cruise line’s photo services are just about always a giant rip-off. Everyone has a camera in their pocket now. Take your own photos or ask a fellow cruiser to take one of you, if necessary.
Yes, those photographers will swarm you all over the cruise ship and, yes, some of the photos may look good or even great — but they’re nothing you can’t get yourself and entirely for free.
8. Make Sure You’re Not Double-Tipping
Carnival Cruise Line Tipping (Photo: John Heald)
There’s a lot to know about cruise line gratuities and tipping. Most cruise lines automatically tack gratuities onto your bill, so when you pay for your on-board expenses at the end of the cruise, those gratuities will be displayed there. You’ll also see them when you sign your bill after dining at a specialty restaurant or ordering drinks at the bar.
As such, make sure that you’re reading over your receipt thoroughly before adding a tip or leaving a cash tip. You may just be double-tipping and never even realizing it.
9. Don’t Book Shore Excursions That You Could Do on Your Own
Carnival Celebration Docked Next to Beach in Curacao (Photo Credit: Mulevich)
In some cases, shore excursions are absolutely necessary for an activity, whether due to accessibility reasons or safety. For example, if you want to go snorkeling or cave diving or horseback riding, you’re going to need to book a shore excursion.
However, there are a lot of shore excursions that offer activities that you could just do on your own, without a guide. Shopping and food tour excursions are two of the best examples of this.
Rather than relying on a guide, do some extra research before your trip and identify restaurants or shops you want to visit while in port. Then, simply go there! You don’t need to pay a guide’s high fees for experiences like these.
10. Bring Your Own Booze and Snacks
Cruise Ship Gangway (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin)
Don’t want to pay for the wine on the cruise ship? Know that you’re really not going to drink enough to warrant buying a drinks package? Consider bringing your own booze aboard the cruise ship, on embarkation day.
While each cruise line differs, most will allow each adult to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne with them.
For example, Royal Caribbean’s policy is that “each guest of drinking age may bring one (1) sealed 750 ml bottle of wine or Champagne.” If you’re traveling with a partner, you could both bring a bottle of wine and you may find that’s all you need for your cruise!
You can likewise bring limited quantities of water and soda, which can cut down on the number of sodas you need to buy on the ship. (Typically, the only beverages actually free during a cruise are things like water, plain coffee, plain tea, etc.)
On a similar note, if you’re a snacker, bring your own snacks with you. Again, cruise line rules will differ, but you can usually bring sealed, purchased snacks on board the ship with no problem (just nothing homemade or opened).
You’ll thank yourself for doing so when you want a little midnight snack or something to tide you over at the pool, and you’re able to avoid dropping an easy $20 per person on something like frozen chicken fingers and fries.
11. Pay Attention to the Cruise Line Loyalty Program
Crown and Anchor Society Loyalty Passenger Event (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Some cruise lines will automatically enroll you in their loyalty program once you book your first sailing, while others will require you to sign up on your own. Whatever the case, though, make sure that you’re in the loyalty program and that you’re getting notifications from the program via email.
While, yes, they can be annoying at first, you can unsubscribe after your cruise. Up until then, though, they can provide you with valuable info about deals and savings that you can enjoy as a loyalty program member.
12. Don’t Use the Cruise Ship’s ATM
ATM Machine on Carnival Cruise (Photo Credits: John Heald & venuswix)
ATM fees may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can really add up if you’re taking cash out of the ATM at every single port.
While it’s a smart idea to have some cash on hand while you’re in port, get that cash (and any international currency you might need) before you leave home, from the bank. The cruise ship ATM fees are just a waste of money and very easily avoidable.
While I’m all for skipping a day in port on occasion to enjoy a day of having the ship almost all to myself instead, some cruisers can’t stand to miss a single stop on their cruise itinerary.
For them, cruising isn’t about the ship, it’s about all the interesting places that ship will take you. Whatever your stance, though, there are a few things you need to think about before heading into port, for the safest and most enjoyable experience possible.
I’ve visited dozens of cruise destinations, so here are the 11 pitfalls you really ought to avoid in most cruise ports.
This one can be a little tricky for first-time cruisers, so what exactly do I mean by “not following port time”?
Many cruises will take you through multiple time zones over the course of your trip. When you get into port, if you have, say, an international cell phone plan, your cell phone will automatically update to port time.
Unfortunately, the ship may be running on a different time zone, so, if you’re thinking you’ll start heading back to the ship around 4 p.m., with plenty of time to make the 6 p.m. embarkation, you could just find you’ve missed your ship.
Yes, that’s right — the ship and the port city may not be following the same time. This is because certain cruise lines keep their ships running on their homeport’s time. This is the case on both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.
Because of this, consider wearing a manually set watch while in port. Before you leave the ship, set the watch to ship time. Then, you’ll know exactly how much time you have until your ship leaves.
Don’t believe that the cruise ship will really leave you behind if you’re late? Think again. CruiseHive has reported on more cases of passengers being left behind than I can count.
I have seen cruise passengers basically stumbling their way back to the cruise ship after a day spent over-indulging in port. Sure, it’s easy to do. You’re in a tropical locale where there are a lot of local libations on offer.
However, be careful that you don’t drink too much while in port. Not only can it make it difficult for you to get back to the ship on time, but, when traveling, over-indulging will always leave you susceptible to danger, such as petty crimes. Save the multiple rounds of margaritas for the ship.
3. Avoid Getting Lost
Cruise Map of Belize Port (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Hopping from port to port over the course of a week or 10 days will put you on a new island or in a new city just about every day. As such, you don’t have the luxury of getting your lay of the land like you might if you were traveling to one city and staying for the entirety of your trip.
To prevent yourself from getting lost (and missing the ship), make a point to grab a port map (your cruise line may have some on offer) before you head out to explore and do some research ahead of time.
Better yet, have a plan for what you want to do in port rather than just winging it, and map out where you’re going in port, and when. While I know that, sometimes, just wandering around can lead you to some of the best travel memories, you really don’t want to risk it when you’re on a tight cruise ship schedule.
Whatever you do, make sure to bring a paper map along with you, into port. You never know when your phone’s battery may die, you lose cell phone service, etc.
4. Avoid Wearing Flashy Jewelry
Diamonds International Store at the Port (Photo Credit: denbaim)
This is a standard piece of advice for traveling just about anywhere, but I’ve seen so many cruisers ignore this very basic rule.
Yes, cruising is extremely safe. However, once you’re in port, the cruise line isn’t responsible for you and those same safety measures that are in place on the cruise ship no longer exist. As such, you have to take some precautions to protect yourself from petty crimes like theft.
Petty criminals know that popular, crowded cruise ports are filled with unsuspecting people doing things like wearing flashy jewelry. Not only can a skilled pickpocket take that Rolex off your wrist without you even realizing it, but wearing flashy accessories makes you a target for potentially more violent crimes, like muggings.
So, leave the jewelry in your cruise ship safe. (And along these lines, don’t wave around a bunch of cash when you’re paying for purchases. Discrete in all things is the way to go.)
5. Avoid Being Disrespectful to Locals
Locals Greet Cruise Ship passengers in Port of Tanjung Priok (Photo Credit: denbaim)
The above said, don’t make the mistake of thinking that cruise ports are just filled with petty criminals and the like. Some of the nicest, friendliest people I’ve met during my travels have been in popular cruise ports.
While you’re in port, be just as kind and courteous as you would hope that travelers might be if they were visiting your home. Respect the service workers you encounter. Don’t be demanding or rude, even if you’re a little frazzled trying to fit in all your sightseeing before you have to go back to the cruise ship.
While locals in most ports are very accustomed to conversing with foreign travelers and many know some English, consider learning a few words of the local language, too. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, many will appreciate the effort.
Additionally, research local customs and laws before you head into port. For example, if you’re cruising around certain parts of the world, you may want to visit some historic or otherwise notable religious sites while in port, and that may mean you need to dress a certain way.
Likewise, some ports may prohibit certain things that you wouldn’t even think about, like wearing camouflage prints, which is illegal in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago.
6. Avoid Going Too Far Away from the Port Area
Photo Credit: Andrew F. Kazmierski / Shutterstock
On some cruises, the port city isn’t the real destination and it’s common for cruisers to take a multi-hour bus ride or other transportation to visit nearby cities.
This is especially the case if you’re on a European cruise, where cruise ships may say they’re taking you to Paris, Rome or Florence, but you’re usually going to need to take that bus to get there.
Though, if your cruise ship isn’t overnighting at the port, which some cruise lines, like Celebrity Cruises, often do in Europe, taking the bus is still going to be risky. Any delay could mean missing embarkation.
So, unless this is your unique situation, where the destination is far away from the port, I’d advise staying near the port area. Particularly if you’re on a Caribbean cruise, you’ll get off the cruise ship and usually be able to walk to everything you want to see and do.
If you do want to do or see something a little further away, look for an excursion option that takes you there, preferably one offered by the cruise line. Opting for a cruise line’s excursion versus a third party-offered excursion ensures you’ll get back to the cruise ship on time.
Along these lines, don’t think that, just because you’re traveling to a “small” island, you can see the entire island during your day in port. That island may look small on a map, but you’d be surprised at just how long it takes to travel from one side of it to the next.
7. Avoid Long Tender Lines Back to the Ship
Cruise Ship Tender Line in Papua New Guinea (Photo Credit: Annalucia)
You know you need to get back to the ship ahead of embarkation, but if you’re stopping at a tendered port — which means the port is too small to accommodate the cruise ship’s size, so you’ll be taking small tender boats between the ship and port — get back to the ship even earlier than you would otherwise.
I’d advise getting back to the ship at the absolute very latest an hour before embarkation. However, note that you’ll probably run into some long tender lines at that point. To avoid those and get back to the ship as easily and conveniently as possible, arrive even earlier, two or three hours in advance of embarkation.
8. Avoid Renting a Scooter or Moped
While I get that renting a scooter or moped when in certain destinations seems like a good idea — just imagine how much faster you’ll get around! — I promise you that it is typically not.
The only time I would rent a scooter or moped in a cruise port would be if I personally had past experience driving a scooter or moped and if I specifically had past experience driving a scooter or moped in that particular destination.
What exactly are the dangers?
First, there’s just the danger that comes with driving in an unfamiliar city, with unfamiliar driving laws. Then, there’s the fact you’re on a scooter or moped, which provides significantly less protection than a car.
Then, you have the problem of some scooter and moped rental providers in port cities not being quite the most reputable, leaving their vehicles in less-than-safe condition.
Still not sure if you believe me?
Take even just one example of what can happen when you rent a scooter in a cruise port.
In one grisly story, two women sailing with Carnival Cruise Lines rented scooters from a third-party provider in Cozumel, and, after a hit-and-run, were left unconscious, without their personal belongings, including travel documents. The cruise line left the two behind, with severe injuries.
After ending up at a Mexican hospital, one was discharged for not having insurance, while the other was held until she could pay her medical bills, totaling in the thousands of dollars.
9. Avoid Separating From Your Group
Groups of Passengers on Cruise Pier (Photo Credit: MNStudio)
If you’re traveling with family members or friends, make sure that everyone is staying together as much as possible while in port, particularly if you’re traveling with more vulnerable individuals.
This means that if you’re traveling with teens, don’t let them go off on their own in port. (Remember, as discussed above, the cruise ship is very safe; the port is not as safe, so while you probably give your teens free range on the cruise ship, don’t do the same in port.)
Likewise, keep any elderly or ill travelers in your group with you, so that you avoid the worst — which, in one case, did happen last year, when an elderly man with dementia went missing after disembarking from a Royal Caribbean cruise in Cozumel.
10. Avoid Taking Certain Things Off the Cruise Ship
Passengers Disembarking Ship at Port of call (Photo Credit: Joa Souza)
There are many things that you might think it wise to throw in your backpack before you head into port. I always make sure that I have a little extra cash, my cruise card, a bottle of water and some sunscreen, for example.
However, there’s one thing that you might think you should bring into port, for convenience’s sake, that could actually get you into trouble: produce.
Sure, you visited the buffet that morning and thought you’d maybe grab a banana or apple to toss into your bag for an easy snack later, but many countries have strict laws against what is technically illegally importing an agricultural product. (Meat and cheese are also a big no-go.)
If you really want a snack, go with something pre-packaged and sealed.
11. Avoid Overdoing It
Last but certainly not least, don’t try to cram so much into your port day that you end up rushing around and having no fun at all. Stick to one excursion only, or a well-planned day of exploring on your own, on foot around the port’s vicinity.
It’s been another busy week for cruise news, and Cruise Hive has it all covered in our weekly round-up. This week, we have stories from Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises.
More than a half-dozen Western and Eastern Mediterranean itineraries aboard Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess in 2025 are being altered due mainly to port congestion.
While there may be more changes in the future, it appears that impacted departure dates are May 17, May 31, June 14, June 21, July 19, July 29, and September 27, 2025. Additionally, some voyages in 2026 are affected.
With the popularity of European cruises booming, ports can become overwhelmed when multiple mega-ships call on the same day.
In one notification to booked guests, Princess Cruises attributed cruise ship congestion in Genoa, Italy, as the reason for nixing a call to the port and substituting Malaga, Spain, instead.
That sailing, an 11-night cruise from Rome to Barcelona on July 29, 2025, has other changes, too, including revising a call to Marseille, France, and altering the time in port at Gibraltar, for instance.
Other destinations with port call changes include the Greek Islands, where tourist overcrowding made headlines in the summer of 2024.
Cruise Line Ups WiFi Minutes on Longer Voyages
Norwegian Cruise Line Ship (Photo Credit: Just dance)
Feedback from guests has prompted Norwegian Cruise Line to increase the number of WiFi minutes provided with its More at Sea benefit program. The change applies to longer cruises, of 12 nights or more, and ups the minutes to 300.
Previously, any cruise of 7 nights or longer received 150 minutes under the plan. The total minutes apply to all guests in a stateroom, and can be used on one device at a time.
Post-cruise surveys and other guest comments signaled that guests were looking for more WiFi access, especially on longer voyages. Cruise length indicates the number of minutes allowed. For cruises of 3 to 6 nights, guests receive 75 minutes, and those on 7- to 11-night sailings receive 150.
In its announcement of the new WiFi perk, the cruise line also confirmed that the Starlink access to all ships fleetwide has been completed.
The More at Sea program is relatively new. It was launched as a replacement for the line’s Free at Sea plan, effective on January 1, 2025.
Two-Ship Pier in the Works at Great Stirrup Cay
New Pier Redner at Great Stirrup Cay (Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Ships will soon be able to dock at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ Great Stirrup Cay private destination in the Bahamas now that construction has finally begun.
The building of a pier, which will accommodate up to two mega-ships simultaneously, was originally planned to start in summer 2024 but was delayed for unknown reasons.
Once the pier is constructed, ships will no longer have to tender thousands of cruisers ashore. The official groundbreaking was held on January 17, 2025, with cruise and Bahamian government officials in attendance.
Ships from all three Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings brands — Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and ultra-luxury Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will be able to use the pier. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2025.
Great Stirrup Cay is one of two private destinations that the cruise company owns. Harvest Caye, in Belize, is the other.
The Great Stirrup Cay project was announced in 2024 along with a major fleet expansion that will add four ships to the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, and two each to Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Disney Cruise Line Hikes Suggested Gratuity Rates
Disney Cruise Line Ship (Photo Credit: Carolyne Parent)
The latest increase, which took effect on January 22, 2025, raised the rate to $16 per person, per day, in standard staterooms and to $27.25 per person, per day, in suites and Concierge-level cabins.
These rates previously were $14.50 and $23.50, respectively. It doesn’t sound like a huge increase, until you look back to October.
Before the October hike, the Concierge-level and suite accommodations carried a daily gratuity rate of $15.50 per person prior to the jump to $23.50.
The change from the pre-October rate of $15.50 to the latest rate of $27.25 represents a 76% hike.
The new rates can add hundreds of dollars to a family vacation. For example, a family of four on a 7-night cruise with suite accommodations will pay $763 in gratuities.
Compared to other cruise lines, Disney Cruise Line has the highest gratuity rate for suites at $27.25. Carnival Cruise Line recommends $18 for suite guests, Royal Caribbean $21, Norwegian Cruise Line $25, and MSC Cruises $20.
Carnival Cruise Line Tightens Policy for Minors
Carnival Cruise Line Kids Area (Photo Credit: denbaim)
Carnival Cruise Line has shored up its stateroom rules for minors, with an eye toward keeping youngsters in closer proximity to an adult in their booking party.
Effective on new bookings made on and after February 1, 2025, guests under age 21 are subject to the new requirements. The cruise line requires that all guests aged 20 and younger must travel with an adult over 25.
When it comes to stateroom location, the line’s new policy is very specific. Guests who are 14 and younger must be booked into the same cabin, or a connecting cabin, as their adult guardian or parent.
Teens aged 15 to 17 can be booked into their own stateroom, but it must be no more than three staterooms away from their adult guardian. Finally, guests between 18 and 20 years old can be booked into any stateroom, but the booking has to be linked to their adult guardian.
No specific reason was given for the new rules, but some insiders suggest it is a way to curtail unruly behavior by some teenage guests.
Celebrity Cruises Orders Sixth Edge-Class Ship
Under Construction Celebrity Xcel Cruise Ship (Photo Copyright: Emrys Thakkar)
Fans of Celebrity Cruises’ Edge-class ships will be glad to learn there is another vessel on the way. Parent company Royal Caribbean Group has ordered the sixth ship in the class from the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, with delivery in 2028.
The new ship will be a sister to the new-build Celebrity Xcel, set to launch in November 2025 with accommodations for 3,260 guests and 1,400 crew members. Celebrity Xcel will be based at Port Everglades.
Among the venues guests can expect to see on the just-ordered ship is the popular Magic Carpet dining and entertainment space. The cantilevered, floating platform reaches heights of 13 stories above sea level.
No details regarding where the ship will homeport or her itineraries have yet been announced.
The new ship order means that the parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, now has six ships in its order book. Royal Caribbean has three Icon-class ships in the works and one Oasis class, while Celebrity Cruises has Celebrity Xcel and the one just ordered.
The third brand in the group, Silversea Cruises, has no ship orders pending.
Cruise Line Offers Late Checkout on Some Ships
Norwegian Viva in Europe (Photo Credit: Stalon)
Norwegian Cruise Line has added a major convenience to its debarkation policy on several ships: a late checkout service that enables guests to remain onboard their ship until about 1 p.m. on disembarkation day.
It means, among other things, that guests with air travel scheduled in the late afternoon will not have to vacate their ship in the morning and spend the entire day at an airport, book an excursion that includes airport drop-off later in the day, or find some other way to pass the time.
Under the pilot program, guests must vacate their staterooms by 8:30 a.m., but can remain in designated public areas until early afternoon. Luggage is to be stored in the cruise terminal until passengers debark the ship.
The policy is intended for guests who have flights scheduled for 5 or 6 p.m.
The late checkout offer is available on certain ships in certain European destinations, and could be expanded in the future. The ships implementing the service are Norwegian Breakaway, Star, Viva, Prima, Sky, Epic, Pearl, and Dawn.
More Cruise Headlines
Now that you’re up to date on the top stories, take a look at even more Cruise Hive coverage of the week’s developments, including Sea Dream Yacht Club accepting cryptocurrency as payment; MSC Cruises revealing two top actors for its new Big Game commercial; the UK Port of Plymouth expecting a big boost in cruise arrivals; Holland America Line refreshing its Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurants; and CostaConcordia’s former captain applying to leave prison early.
After a fun cruise vacation, many passengers will look for a meaningful souvenir to help them remember the experience. This might come in the form of a refrigerator magnet, a shirt or hoodie, ornaments, or even jewelry.
But for avid Carnival cruisers, ceramic models of the brand’s more than 25 ships are particularly popular – with the Fun Shops on each ship usually selling a mini replica of the vessel of which they are onboard.
Each time cruise fans embark on a new Carnival ship, they can collect another model for their collection.
But unfortunately for one guest, who recently sailed aboard Mardi Gras, the item was out of stock in the Fun Shops – which is the only official place to purchase the models.
As the shops are typically only restocked at the beginning of each cruise, the store likely wouldn’t receive another shipment of the popular souvenirs until the ship returned to her homeport at the end of the voyage.
As a last ditch effort, the disappointed passenger reached out to Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald on his Facebook page to see if he could help her acquire the coveted model on her upcoming sailing onboard Carnival Freedom – which is a 4-night Bahamas cruise embarking from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, on February 6, 2025.
“We collect the ceramic ship models of each ship we have sailed. We should have 5 but when we went in Mardi Gras this past August, we went to the fun shop on day 1 to find they didn’t have any on board,” the guest explained.
“After disembarking, we contacted the company that stocks them and found out the ONLY way to get one is on board and they were sorry there were none for us to purchase in the shop that sailing,” she continued.
The avid cruiser went on to politely ask if Heald knew of a way for the Mardi Gras model to be sent to Carnival Freedom so that she could purchase it in just a couple weeks, but unfortunately the brand ambassador couldn’t accommodate the request.
This is because Carnival doesn’t actually own the Fun Shops onboard its cruise ships. Instead, the stores are owned and operated by Harding, a UK-based cruise retailer.
“I totally understand your request and I’m so very very sorry that we could not provide one for you during the cruise and indeed we can’t provide another ship model when you are on [Carnival Freedom],”Heald apologized.
“You see, we do not own the shops, they are different companies that own different shops on different ships and so I’m afraid that is the reason why we can’t do anything at all,” he went on to explain.
Aside from joining Mardi Gras for another cruise – with the Excel-class ship currently alternating between Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries out of Port Canaveral – this woman’s best bet would likely be to check eBay or other Carnival groups on Facebook.
“There is a [Facebook] page called Carnival Cruise Line Buy Sell & Swap. It may be able to help,” another commenter helpfully chimed in.
Of course, this isn’t the first unique request Heald has received regarding the souvenirs available for purchase in the onboard shops.
Heald’s assistant, Jacinta, thanked the guest for her suggestion of introducing canine-friendly souvenirs. But thus far, it’s unclear when or if these will be added to the Fun Shops’ inventories.
Yes, you can get married on a cruise ship. There are many reasons why you might want to do so — but also some downsides to a cruise ship wedding, and things you’ll want to take into consideration while planning, to ensure your nuptials go off without a hitch. Here’s what you need to know.
I’ve seen many a wedding taking place on a cruise ship and I know a fair number of avid cruisers who’ve opted for a cruise ship wedding. However, the experience is not for everyone. If you’re relatively new to cruising, this is basically how a cruise ship wedding goes down.
A cruise ship wedding basically combines a destination wedding with a hotel wedding. You get the thrill of getting married far from home, in a vacation-worthy locale, but you also get all the built-in services that you might when holding a hotel wedding, including accommodations, catering, entertainment, etc.
Which Cruise Lines Offer Weddings?
Cruise Ship Wedding (Photo Credit: Pirat Pirat)
Many cruise lines offer wedding packages that bundle everything you could need into one cost. For example, Royal Caribbean offers wedding packages starting at $1,950, accommodating up to 10 wedding guests and including an officiant, planner/coordinator, Champagne for toasting, music, wedding cake, dinner for just the couple and a wedding gift.
Carnival Cruise Line, meanwhile, has a signature ceremony package starting at $1,799 for 10 guests and many of the same services and inclusions, though Carnival Cruise Line throws in photography services, too.
Other cruise lines that offer wedding experiences include Cunard, Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Margaritaville at Sea, Azamara Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Crystal Cruises, MSC Cruises and Disney Cruise Line. Not all offer wedding packages, per se, but they will allow you to get married or renew your vows on the ship.
How Does a Wedding During a Cruise Work?
Wedding While in Port (Photo Credit: Viktor Hladchenko)
When you get married on a cruise, you can choose to either get married while you’re in port (either at one of the ports that you’re sailing to or at the embarkation port), or while you’re at sea. All of these three options come with their benefits and downsides.
If you get married at the ship’s home port on embarkation day, you can get married on the ship and invite non-cruisers onto the ship to celebrate with you (they’ll obviously just need to leave before the ship embarks).
If you get married during the cruise itself, at sea and on the ship, keep in mind that your attendees will need to join you for the entire cruise (some couples prefer this, others do not).
If you get married during one of the ship’s port days, your guests can join you in the destination, and in this case, you’d likely get married off the ship.
Out of these three options, I would recommend not getting married on embarkation day. While it may feel convenient for your guests and it leaves you with the rest of the cruise to enjoy the trip as a married couple, embarkation day is busy and stressful.
You’ll have to worry about long lines getting onto the ship. Since cruisers don’t have access to their staterooms right away on embarkation day, they’ll all be milling about in public spaces, making things crowded. It’s just not the experience I’d personally choose for a wedding.
Throughout all the planning, the cruise line’s event planner will be able to assist you, ensuring that all your questions are answered and that everything is ready to go for the big day.
They can even help with ensuring you’re completely legal, and that you acquire the right marriage license for your in-port or at-sea wedding.
Cruise Ship Wedding Pros
The Bride During Cruise Wedding (Photo Credit: Severina Chavez Lynch)
The benefits of opting for a cruise ship wedding are pretty straightforward.
First, there’s the cost. With the average cost of the typical wedding easily exceeding $30,000, you’ll save a ton by hosting a cruise ship wedding.
Even if you get one of the more expensive wedding packages, like Cunard’s luxury wedding ceremony package that starts at $3,600, you’re still saving a substantial amount. If you consider the cruise itself to be your honeymoon, that lowers your wedding costs even more.
(Though, I think it’s worth mentioning, just in case you didn’t realize, that the cost of the wedding package will not include the cost of your cruise itself.
You’ll need to keep that additional cost in mind as you set your wedding budget, as well as the cost of travel to and from your cruise port, and the cost of any extra purchases not included in your cruise fare, like specialty dining costs, spa and salon services costs, etc.)
In addition to savings, you may also enjoy extra perks and specials when booking a cruise ship wedding. Couples often receive extra on-board credits, for example, or a welcome gift of strawberries and chocolate.
If traveling in a group, with all your guests on the ship, you’re more likely to receive even more extras, such as a stateroom upgrade for the lucky couple.
Then, there’s the ease of planning. With most cruise lines including a wedding planner and coordinating services within their event packages, you’ll have a professional on your team to ensure all your wedding planning i’s are dotted and t’s are crossed.
The general simplicity of a cruise ship wedding likewise makes things more convenient. If you’re not a big planner, or the idea of a traditional wedding seems overwhelming, a cruise ship wedding is the way to go.
Cruise Ship Wedding Cons
Wedding on the Beach With Clouds (Photo Credit: WellStock)
So what are some of the potential downsides to having a cruise wedding?
For one, you can’t always control your surroundings. If you want to have your wedding on the cruise ship deck, with the ocean in the background, for example, your big day might be moved inside, to one of the ship’s other venues, if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Likewise, if you have your wedding while in port, on a beach, you can’t really prevent other travelers from wandering into or close to your ceremony space.
In some instances, this is not a big deal. In my experience, most cruisers are fairly respectful of wedding parties on the ship. They may stop and stare, but they’re not going to overtly get in the bride or groom’s way.
I’ve also, though, seen wedding parties actively peeved that the cruise ship’s hustle and bustle goes on around them, while they’re trying to get photos or otherwise enjoy their day.
Then, there’s the fact that cruise ship weddings are more limited than on-land weddings. Most cruise ship weddings are on the smaller, more intimate side, so if you’re dreaming of a wedding day that includes hundreds of your closest friends, family members and mere acquaintances, tying the knot on a cruise ship might not be for you.
You’ll likewise be restricted to the cruise ship’s offerings, in terms of cake design, décor, ceremony space, etc. While these offerings take into account most couples’ preferences and common wedding trends, if your dream wedding includes something completely out of the box — say, you and your spouse-to-be riding away from the reception on horseback — you might be out of luck.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that basic cruise ship wedding packages only include your ceremony, technically. For a reception celebration, you’ll likely need to make a group reservation at a specialty restaurant on the cruise ship.
Tips for Planning Your Cruise Ship Wedding
Taken all of the above into consideration and decided that a cruise ship wedding is right for you? If so, here are a few tips to ensure your wedding day is as magical as possible.
1. Book Carefully and Early
Cruise Wedding in Grand Cayman (Photo Credit: Viktor Hladchenko)
Keep in mind that you’ll likely not be the only couple on board getting married during your chosen sailing, and the cruise ship will have a limited number of wedding slots available.
As such, if you have your heart set on getting married on a certain day or during a certain sailing, book your cruise and your wedding package as soon as you can, for the most choices possible.
You may also want to opt to cruise during less-busy periods, for less competition for those wedding slots, such as during the week, avoiding holidays and spring break season.
2. Make Things as Easy as Possible for Your Guests
Dining for the Special Event Onboard (Photo Credit: canbedone)
While your cruise ship wedding coordinator will make the wedding planning and day-of as easy as possible for you, extend the same courtesy to your guests.
Start by letting your guests know as soon as possible that you’ll be having a cruise ship wedding, so they RSVP and can plan any travel accordingly. If you’re inviting them to go on the cruise with you, offer a block of cabins that they can book at various price points, just like a Group Cruise.
Additionally, plan a mix of “together” activities and free time. You want your guests to walk away having had an excellent vacation, but you don’t want to monopolize their free time (and you likely don’t want to spend your entire romantic cruise catering to Grandma Mary’s wishes and demands anyway).
3. Arrive at Your Cruise Port a Day in Advance
Cruise Ships Docked in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: 4kclips)
While this is a piece of advice I hand out often, to all cruisers, it’s especially something to consider if you’re having a cruise ship wedding. Arrive at your cruise port one day ahead of embarkation day.
While you may think that there’s no way at all that you could miss embarkation, you never know when a flight is going to be cancelled, weather is going to be bad or something similar is going to make it impossible for you to get to the cruise port on time.
You can alleviate all worries about missing your cruise’s embarkation by arriving at your cruise port one day in advance, staying overnight in a hotel and then traveling to the cruise port the morning of embarkation.
4. Carefully Consider all the Pros and Cons of a Cruise Ship Wedding Before Making Your Final Decision
Lastly, it can’t be overstated that you really need to think about all the pros and cons of a cruise ship wedding before booking.
Will some of your family not be up for a cruise ship wedding, particularly family members that you’d really like to have present on your big day? Do some of your friends or family members get seasick? Is everyone healthy enough to travel internationally?
How flexible are you, typically, and for big events? When you’re at the whims of the weather and the cruise line, you may need to be very flexible in where, when and how your nautical nuptials eventually take place.
If you’ve fully thought about what’s best for you and your fiancé, your guests, your budget and your personal preferences, and you’ve found that none of the cruise ship wedding cons are a big enough deal to dissuade you, then it’s time to book.
It isn’t too often that a cruise ship that is more than 20 years old gets to make a maiden visit to a port of call she has never seen before. That is just what Carnival Spirit was able to do on Friday, January 24, 2025, however, with her very first ever visit to Curacao.
The ship departed from Mobile, Alabama on a 12-night Southern Caribbean Carnival Journeys sailing on Saturday, January 18, first visiting Grand Turk and then Aruba before her arrival in Willemstad, Curacao.
The Port of Curacao welcomed Carnival Spirit with the maritime tradition of a plaque exchange ceremony. In attendance at the momentous occasion were local authorities, representatives of Customs and Immigration, the Curacao Tourist Board, the Curacao Ports Authority, and the ship’s officers.
The ship has now received her commemorative plaques for the new port visit, and in exchange, offered iconic “whale tail” funnel sculptures to different representatives and dignitaries.
Such items are often exchanged whenever a vessel first visits a new port, whether the ship is brand new or, like Carnival Spirit, has been sailing for decades. Photos, sculptures, maps, flags, and other items may be exchanged in gestures of goodwill and welcome.
These items are then displayed onboard the ship, and make an astonishing gallery cruise travelers can browse to see just where their ship has visited, and when those visits occurred.
This visit is particularly notable as cruise tourism continues to rise throughout the Caribbean. Travelers are eager for unique destinations, and Curacao is on the top of many cruisers’ wish lists for places to visit.
Carnival Spirit Ceremony on the Bridge (Photo Credit: Curaçao Ports Authority)
“The arrival of Carnival Spirit highlights Curaçao’s growing appeal as a key Caribbean cruise destination,”the Curacao Ports Authority noted.
As part of an extended Carnival Journeys sailing, this visit is sure to be a memorable one for many travelers aboard. Carnival Journeys cruises are longer voyages that offer more immersive, specialized activities and entertainment to truly highlight the unique destinations the ship visits.
After Curacao, Carnival Spirit will continue on to Jamaica and Grand Cayman before returning to Mobile on Thursday, January 30.
Sailing to Curacao
Curacao is a lovely destination, but its location more than 1,100 miles from the US makes it challenging for cruise ships to reach on typical 7-night or shorter sailings. Longer cruises can reach the tropical island, depending on how many other ports they plan to visit.
Part of the coveted A-B-C itinerary – Aruba-Bonaire-Curacao – the lovely Dutch Caribbean island has amazing features for travelers to enjoy, including the grottos of Hato Caves, the historic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, spectacular marine wildlife, and much more.
While Carnival Spirit was the only ship visiting Curacao on January 24, a variety of vessels from multiple cruise lines have enjoyed the port destination just this month.
Ships calling on Willemstad in January have included Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Beyond, Holland America Line’s Eurodam, Princess Cruises’ Island Princess, Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Viva, and Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas.
Two other Carnival ships that have visited the island this month: Carnival Horizon on January 9 and again on January 23, as well as Carnival Magic on January 14.
Carnival Spirit Docked in Curacao (Photo Credit: Curaçao Ports Authority)
Carnival Miracle, Carnival Vista, Carnival Venezia, and Carnival Celebration will all visit Curacao in the next few months, all on longer Carnival Journeys cruises.
Carnival Spirit first entered service in 2001 and has sailed all around the world, including in Alaska, Europe, the Mexican Riviera, Australia, and more. She is currently the fifth oldest ship in Carnival’s 27-ship fleet.
Her current sailing is her last itinerary before she will enter dry dock for updating and revitalization. She will return to service with her March 16, 2025 departure – a 14-night one-way transatlantic cruise from Barcelona to Miami. From Miami, she will immediately depart for Seattle on a 15-night sailing that will take her through the Panama Canal.
Carnival Spirit will spend the 2025 Alaska sailing season offering 7-night itineraries to explore the Last Frontier before returning to Mobile in October. Her next visit to Curacao will not be until January 2026, on another 14-night Southern Caribbean Carnival Journeys cruise.
Like other cruise vacations, prices on Alaskan cruises go up and down each year. To help you budget your trip, I’ve researched prices for the upcoming Alaska cruise season and found that the cost of an Alaska cruise in 2025 will range from $600 to $10,000 per person.
This considerable price variation depends on several key factors, which we will cover in this article. Let me take you through everything you should know about planning and budgeting your unforgettable Alaska-bound cruise ship adventure.
As mentioned, cruise prices vary depending on a wide range of factors. Everything from when you book and the type of onboard accommodations you select to your preferred itinerary and the upgrades you add will determine your final cost.
To help you properly budget your dream Alaska cruise, I’m going to cover some of the main factors that will impact the price of your trip.
Not only will this help you understand why Alaskan cruises are priced the way they are, but you’ll also learn how to take advantage of last-minute deals and promotions to land an amazing deal on a trip that matches your preferences.
Time of Year
Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship in Ketchikan, Alaska (Photo Credit: Just dance)
The time of year when you sail will significantly impact how much you pay for your Alaskan cruise. While most cruise destinations have seasons that are more popular than others, Alaska’s peak season tends to be more pronounced, as seasonal weather conditions limit the length of the cruise season and have a significant impact on the overall passenger experience.
Alaska’s peak season for all types of tourism, including cruises, runs from June until August. Not only are these months the warmest and most comfortable for outdoor activities, but Alaska’s famed wildlife tends to be more visible during these months.
Given that viewing stunning landscapes and wild animals like seals, orcas, bald eagles, and bears are the main Alaska attractions, it makes sense that most people want to cruise Alaska when they are at peak visibility.
As with other cruise destinations, cruises booked during peak season tend to be the priciest. For example, when I checked prices for 7-night Alaskan cruises in July of this year, the lowest prices were around $1,700 per person.
While this price may seem reasonable, it’s worth remembering that I was searching for bare-bones cruises with few inclusions or extras.
If you are flexible and looking to save money on your cruise, I recommend booking during the shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to October.
While there is no getting around the fact that temperatures are cooler during these months and the weather can be less predictable, the savings can be pretty significant. When I checked, a similar itinerary to the one discussed above could be found for as low as $1,100 per person—a savings of around $600!
Based on my own experiences with cruising Alaska, traveling during the shoulder seasons is one of the best ways to bring costs down. Sure, you won’t get the same mild temperatures you could expect in the summer, but you’ll pay less and experience fewer crowds.
There are also a few extra advantages to traveling during the less desirable shoulder months, like excellent whale-watching opportunities in the spring, a higher chance of viewing the northern lights in the fall, and far more affordable shore excursions.
Plus, the same glaciers, fjords, and tree-covered coastlines you would see in the summer are just as visible during the spring and fall!
Itinerary and Length of the Cruise
Cruise Ships Docked in Skagway, Alaska (Photo Credit: The Hungarian Sailor)
The duration of your voyage and the specific itinerary are also major factors that will impact the cost of your Alaskan cruise.
Here’s what I found for the 2025 season: shorter cruises, like basic 5-night itineraries, typically start at around $600 per person, or about $120 per day, regardless of the time of year.
On the other hand, longer cruises, like 7 to 10-night itineraries, often range from $2,000 to $5,000 per person, averaging about $200 to $500 per day.
While you may assume that stretching your Alaskan cruise vacation out might bring costs down, most cruise lines actually charge significantly higher rates for these more elaborate itineraries, even on a per-day basis.
While costs are typically higher for the lengthier Alaskan voyages, I find they offer plenty of unique advantages that can help justify their higher price points.
Naturally, a longer voyage means a longer vacation and more time to explore everything Alaska has to offer, but that’s just the beginning. Another huge advantage is that longer cruises tend to visit the less frequented Alaskan ports and towns, such as Sitka Cruise Port or Icy Strait Point, offering passengers unique experiences that shorter itineraries usually skip over.
Personally, when I decided to pay a bit extra for a longer itinerary, I found that the extra time to explore Alaska’s Inside Passage was worth every penny.
It also gave the entire cruise a more relaxed feel, so I didn’t feel as pressured to see everything I wanted to see. Instead, I felt I could try to spot the wildlife and take in the landscape in a more natural and calming way.
Type of Cabin Selected
Cruise Ship Balcony in Alaska (Photo Credit: WESLEY FOULDS)
As with any cruise vacation, your choice of cabin or suite type also plays a big role in the final cost of your trip. Unsurprisingly, nicer and more spacious accommodations tend to come with a higher price tag, but it’s actually not as straightforward as you may assume.
Here’s just a basic overview of what I found when I looked into this year’s prices for different cabin types on Alaskan cruises:
As expected, interior staterooms on almost every Alaska-bound cruise ship are the most budget-friendly option. Most shoulder-season Alaska cruises start at around $600 to $800 per person.
If you want to upgrade to an ocean-view cabin, which I highly recommend when visiting Alaska, prices typically begin around $800 per person.
Remember that one of the main attractions of cruising Alaska is the scenery, so I would say it is more than worth paying extra to enjoy the landscapes and wildlife from the privacy of your cabin.
Now, balcony cabins are undoubtedly my favorite when cruising Alaska because the views of the glaciers, coastlines, and wildlife are even better when you can enjoy them in solitude.
Plus, a balcony allows you to enjoy some outdoor solitude to enjoy the sounds and smells of this untouched part of the world. With that said, a private balcony will increase your cruise costs quite a bit, as they usually start at $1,200 per person.
Finally, when it comes to splurging on a luxury suite, I found that prices for even a basic itinerary and shoulder-month voyage start at around $2,500 per person.
These prices can climb well above $5,000 per person, so they’re definitely pricier, but they can be worthwhile if you enjoy more personal space and more luxurious amenities.
A Note on Cabin Types for Alaskan Cruises
Balcony on Celebrity Edge (Photo Credit: Papabread)
I mentioned above that it could be worth spending money on an outside cabin with a large window when cruising Alaska. The views are one of the main attractions of these pristine landscapes, and it’s worth taking a moment to stress this point.
The only thing that makes these views better is enjoying them privately. I find that Alaska’s beauty is best enjoyed in silence, so having your own private view ensures you won’t have this experience impacted by your fellow passengers as you try to take in the sights on a crowded deck.
Personally, some of my favorite memories of cruising Alaska are enjoying the view with a coffee and total solitude from my private balcony.
It is also worth noting just how long some days can be in Alaska, so you’re paying a premium for a private view, but you will get lots of value out of it.
For example, if you book your cruise for June, also known as the month of the Midnight Sun, you can anticipate 21 to 22 hours of daylight per day, providing you with ample time to enjoy the view from your cabin or suite.
Another thing I’ve noticed in previous years is that more luxurious accommodations, like balcony cabins and suites, are far more affordable during the shoulder months.
While you would expect prices to drop for any cruise package booked during the off-season, the discounts on luxury accommodations are even more evident.
This trend looks like it will continue in 2025, as I’ve noticed discounts of around 40% for suites during the fall compared to discounts closer to 30% for regular cabins booked during this same time of year.
If you can’t afford a suite or balcony cabin during the summer, consider booking your cruise later in the year. You might just pay less for a much nicer category of room than you would pay for the most basic cabin during peak season.
Cruise Line and Ship
Another price factor that isn’t exactly unique to Alaskan cruises is which cruise line and cruise ship you choose. While I can’t say that any of this came as a surprise, here’s what I found when I was checking prices for the 2025 season:
Luxury Cruise Lines
Silversea Cruise Ship in Alaska (Photo Credit: Artha sant)
Luxury cruise lines, like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea Cruises, had much higher prices for 7-day voyages, starting at around $5,000 per person.
Keep in mind that these packages not only offered all-inclusive experiences and comfortable accommodations but also included stops in lesser-visited destinations, like Hubbard Glacier and Icy Strait Point.
Cunard also falls into this higher tier, but I found prices were surprisingly reasonable, with most packages starting around $2,000 per person.
This could be because Cunard’s Alaskan voyages had pretty basic itineraries, but I must admit I was surprised by the relatively low prices, especially given many of their voyages are 10- and 11-night voyages.
Mid-Range Cruise Lines
Radiance of the Seas Docked in Juneau, Alaska (Photo Credit: Ken Schulze)
If you’re not willing to shell out for a luxury cruise on one of the more amenity-filled cruise ships, mid-range cruise lines can also offer an amazing experience at a middle-ground price.
Cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line are all good options, with many of their Alaska-bound cruise ships offering plenty of amenities, great food, and reasonable prices.
From my research, prices for a typical 7-night cruise through these cruise lines tend to start around $1,000. If these types of cruise ships and itineraries sound appealing to you, you should be able to secure your trip for under $2,400. The more flexible you are with departure dates, the easier it is to get a good deal.
If you want to see a lot but still keep costs reasonable, Royal Caribbean’s Wilderness Frontier Explorer cruises have seven stops and an average price of $2,300. That’s a great deal!
Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines
Carnival Spirit Cruise Ship in Alaska (Photo Credit: Artha sant)
For those looking to experience an Alaskan cruise on a tighter budget, I highly recommend checking out cruise packages through some of the more entry-level cruise lines. MSC Cruises looks to be offering plenty of affordable options for Alaskan cruises that set sail from Seattle in 2025.
Carnival Cruise Line is also offering some great prices on Alaskan cruises this year, with many featuring stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Seward. If you’re flexible with departure dates, you can land a 7-day cruise for as low as $700 per person on a relatively nice cruise ship.
Personally, I usually opt for a mid-range cruise line and ship. I find this strikes a reasonable balance between cost and amenities.
While the sights and sounds of the Last Frontier are always the main attraction when you’re on one of these types of cruises, it’s still good to have a memorable onboard experience, especially given how intense some of the rain can be in Alaska.
Other Costs to Consider When Budgeting for Your Alaskan Cruise
Beyond the price of booking your cruise, there are always additional costs associated with taking a cruise. The following are just some of the expenses you should anticipate when making your Alaskan cruise budget:
Travel to and From the Departure Port
Cruise Ships Docked at the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock)
Depending on where you are coming from, flights can cost between $300 and $600 per person. I recommend arriving a day early to avoid travel delays. A night at a mid-range hotel in these cities can cost between $100 and $250, so it’s another cost you should budget for.
When I last cruised Alaska, I departed from Vancouver Cruise Port. Arriving in the city the day before my departure date not only helped me avoid feeling stressed at the airport but also allowed me to explore the city’s beautiful Stanley Park and amazing food scene. For me, this was well worth the extra cost.
Shore Excursions
Local Tour Operators in Juneau, Alaska (Photo Credit: Ken Schulze)
The right shore excursions can make your Alaska cruise even more memorable, but they come at an extra cost. Some of the most popular activities include whale-watching tours, which tend to cost around $100 to $250 per person; fishing trips, which typically cost between $200 and $400 per person; and pricey helicopter glacier tours, which can cost as much as $650.
While there is plenty to do in port without booking an expensive shore excursion, you may want to anticipate these costs ahead of time if you have your heart set on seeing whales in their natural habitat, taking a dog sledding tour, or even just want to enjoy a guided hiking tour.
While some of these excursions are expensive, I find they are worth every penny. They can be true once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I’d recommend putting aside at least a couple hundred bucks just so you have the option, even if you don’t plan on booking anything ahead of time.
Even if you don’t book an excursion, it’s also a good idea to set some spending money aside for when you are exploring the ports and towns. You wouldn’t want to miss the chance to pick up a uniquely Alaskan souvenir or try some of the 49th state’s famous seafood restaurants.
Gratuities
Princess Cruises Crew Members (Photo Credit: Erin Cadigan)
Unless you have booked a package that includes pre-paid gratuities, paying extra for gratuities is customary on pretty much every cruise.
Expect to pay around $15 to $25 per person per day, depending on the cruise line and your room type. For example, in 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line charges stateroom guests $16.00 per person per day as an automatic gratuities fee.
I recommend budgeting for tips in advance to avoid surprises on your final bill. I’ve also brought some loose cash on some of my trips, so I can tip a little extra if I think a staff member has gone above and beyond.
Specialty Dining and Beverages
Fine Cut Restaurant (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
While main dining rooms are generally included, specialty restaurants and drinks often incur additional charges. Here’s what I found when I checked prices for this cruise season:
On most ships, specialty dining tends to cost around $25 to $50 per meal, but the fees are higher for the more prestigious restaurants.
If you want to purchase a beverage package, prices vary, but I have found a few general trends. Non-alcoholic packages usually start around $20 per day, while alcoholic packages range from $50 to $100 per day.
For example, Holland America Line charges $59.99 per guest per day for an alcoholic drinks package on their Alaskan cruises.
Travel Insurance
Cruise Passengers in Sitka (Photo Credit: Artchemy Labs)
Travel insurance might be one of the most overlooked cruise expenses, but having one is a must when visiting a remote and unpredictable location like Alaska.
Policies typically cost between 5% to 10% of your trip cost, so prices will vary depending on what you book. While it’s not mandatory, I have always felt that travel insurance is worth it for peace of mind.
Conclusion
Considering all factors, the cost of your cruise, additional expenses, and even the cost of getting to your point of departure, the total cost of an Alaska cruise in 2025 can range from $700 to $10,000 per person.
Sure, this is a huge range, but it just goes to show how important budgeting is when it comes to taking an Alaskan cruise.
Plan carefully and avoid hidden costs and unexpected expenses. This will make budgeting easier and help you enjoy a stress-free trip, allowing you to focus on everything Alaska has to offer rather than worry about costs.
