What is not included on a Princess cruise?

Unpacking the Princess Cruise Price: What’s Included (and What’s Not)

Princess Cruises offers a captivating escape to exotic destinations, but understanding the true cost of your voyage is crucial for a smooth and financially stress-free experience. While the advertised fare covers the basics, several additional expenses can quickly add up if you’re not prepared. Let’s clarify what’s included in your Princess cruise fare and, perhaps more importantly, what’s not.

Your cruise fare typically covers:

• Your stateroom accommodation: This includes your chosen cabin for the duration of your voyage.
• Main dining room meals: Enjoy a variety of culinary offerings in the ship’s main dining rooms. Note that specialty dining restaurants often incur extra charges.
• Most onboard entertainment: Participate in shows, live music, and other planned activities included in the cruise itinerary.
• Use of ship amenities: Access to pools, fitness centers, and other onboard facilities are generally included (though some spa treatments and services will cost extra).
• Transportation between ports (on itineraries that include multiple ports): This usually includes the transfer between ports as part of the scheduled cruise itinerary.

However, several significant costs are not included in your base fare, and budgeting for these is essential:

• Alcoholic beverages: Drinks, including beer, wine, and spirits, are generally purchased separately. While some drink packages are available for purchase, they are not included in the initial cruise price.
• Sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages: Beyond complimentary water, soft drinks and juices are typically an additional expense. Consider purchasing a beverage package if you anticipate consuming a large quantity of these items.
• Gratuities/Service Charges: While a daily gratuity is automatically added to your onboard account for your stateroom attendant and dining staff, additional service charges apply to specialty dining, spa treatments, and other optional services purchased during your voyage.
• Crew appreciation: While tipping is customary, it’s not mandatory. However, many guests choose to express their appreciation for exceptional service with additional gratuities beyond the automatic service charges.
• Shore excursions: Any organized tours or activities you choose to do while in port will be an extra cost. Pre-booking these can often secure better prices and avoid disappointment.
• Specialty dining: Access to the ship’s specialty restaurants—offering a higher level of cuisine and ambiance—involves an additional charge per person per meal.
• Pre-purchased travel insurance: Protecting your investment with travel insurance is highly recommended, but it’s a separate purchase you’ll need to make.
• Internet access: Wi-Fi onboard is usually a paid service, although packages are often available for varying levels of usage.
• Casino gambling: Any winnings are yours, but your losses will come directly out of your wallet.
• Spa treatments and salon services: Pampering services like massages, facials, and hair styling are extra expenses.
• Onboard shopping: Purchases from the ship’s shops add to your final bill.

By understanding the nuances of what’s included and excluded in your Princess cruise fare, you can better plan your budget, ensuring a truly unforgettable – and financially manageable – vacation. Remember to check your final booking confirmation for a comprehensive list of inclusions and exclusions specific to your chosen cruise and itinerary.