Taking a cruise is a dream vacation for many, with the opportunity to explore new destinations while enjoying the amenities of a luxury ship. But, what is the cost of a 5 day cruise? Let’s break it down.
Factors that Affect the Cost of a Cruise
Before we dive into the cost, it’s important to understand the factors that affect the price of a cruise. The price can vary depending on:
- The time of year you’re traveling
- The destination and itinerary
- The cruise line and ship
- The type of cabin you choose
- The onboard activities and amenities
What is Included in the Cost?
The cost of a cruise typically includes accommodations, meals, and onboard activities such as shows and entertainment. However, there are additional expenses to consider such as excursions, drinks, spa treatments, and gratuities.
How Much Does a 5 Day Cruise Cost?
On average, a 5 day cruise can cost anywhere from $300 to $1500 per person depending on the factors mentioned above. Let’s break it down further.
Cruise Line and Ship:
The choice of cruise line and ship can greatly affect the cost. Generally speaking, mainstream cruise lines such as Carnival or Royal Caribbean offer lower prices than premium or luxury lines like Celebrity or Seabourn.
For example, a 5 day Western Caribbean cruise with Carnival starts at around $300 per person while a similar itinerary with Celebrity can start at around $650 per person.
Cabin Type:
The type of cabin you choose also affects the price. Interior cabins are typically the most affordable option while suites can be much more expensive.
A basic interior cabin on a 5 day cruise with Carnival can start at $289 per person while a balcony cabin can start at $479 per person.
Destination and Itinerary:
The destination and itinerary of the cruise can also affect the cost. Cruises to popular destinations such as the Caribbean or Mexico tend to be more affordable than cruises to exotic locations like Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands.
For example, a 5 day Western Caribbean cruise with Carnival starts at around $300 per person while a 5 day Alaska cruise with Princess can start at around $700 per person.
Additional Expenses to Consider
As mentioned earlier, there are additional expenses to consider such as excursions, drinks, spa treatments, and gratuities. These expenses can add up quickly so it’s important to budget accordingly.
Excursions:
Excursions are activities that you can do while in port. These can include things like snorkeling, zip-lining, or sightseeing tours. Prices for excursions vary depending on the activity and location but can range from $50 to $200 or more per person.
Drinks:
Cruise lines typically charge extra for alcoholic beverages. Prices for drinks vary but expect to pay around $7-10 for a beer and $10-15 for a cocktail.
Spa Treatments:
Spa treatments such as massages or facials are an additional expense. Prices vary depending on the treatment but expect to pay anywhere from $100-200 or more.
Gratuities:
Gratuities are typically added to your onboard account at the end of the cruise and cover tips for your cabin steward, dining room staff, and other crew members. Gratuities can range from $10-15 per person per day.
In Conclusion
The cost of a 5 day cruise can vary greatly depending on several factors. It’s important to consider all of these factors when choosing a cruise and budgeting for your vacation. With proper planning, a 5 day cruise can be an affordable and enjoyable vacation option.