How Much Does a Full Cruise Ship Cost?

By Robert Palmer

When it comes to planning for a cruise, one of the most important questions to consider is how much a full cruise ship will cost. From buying a ship outright, to hiring a crew and fuel costs, there are numerous factors that contribute to the overall price of a full cruise ship.

In terms of buying the actual vessel, there are many different types and sizes of ships available. The cost of a fully-equipped vessel can range from around $2 million up to hundreds of millions depending on the size and features included. On top of this initial cost, additional expenses such as fuel, crew wages, maintenance and insurance must also be taken into account.

The cost of fuel depends on the type of engine powering the vessel as well as its route and speed. Diesel engines are generally more efficient than gasoline engines but both can be expensive when running a large cruising vessel.

Crew wages can also be expensive depending on the size and experience level required for the job. Generally speaking, experienced captains with multiple certifications will command higher salaries than inexperienced officers or deckhands.

Maintenance costs can include repairs and replacements for engine parts, lifeboats and other safety equipment, as well as cleaning supplies and general upkeep expenses such as painting or carpet cleaning.

In conclusion, while there is no exact answer to ‘how much does a full cruise ship cost?’ due to all the individual expenses involved in acquiring one, it is safe to say that purchasing a cruise ship is an expensive endeavor. Factors such as fuel costs, crew wages, maintenance fees and insurance premiums must all be taken into consideration before spending millions on an entire vessel.