Going on a 3-day cruise can be a great way to unwind and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But, one question that comes to mind when planning for a cruise is, “how much money should I take?”
Well, the answer to this question depends on several factors such as your spending habits, the activities you plan on doing onboard, and the destinations you’ll be visiting. In this article, we’ll guide you through the various expenses you can expect on a 3-day cruise so that you can make an informed decision about how much money to take along.
What’s Included in Your Cruise Fare?
Before we dive into specific expenses, let’s first talk about what’s typically included in your cruise fare. Most cruise lines offer basic amenities such as accommodations, meals (including buffets and room service), non-alcoholic beverages (such as water, tea, and coffee), onboard entertainment (such as live shows and movies), access to fitness centers and pools, and supervised activities for kids.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Even though your basic amenities are included in your fare, there are additional expenses that you should consider when budgeting for your 3-day cruise. Here’s a breakdown of some of these expenses:
1. Gratuities
Gratuities or tips are usually not included in your cruise fare but are expected at the end of your trip. You can either prepay gratuities or pay them onboard. The amount varies by cruise line but typically ranges between $12-$15 per person per day.
2. Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are not included in your fare unless you’ve opted for an all-inclusive package. Prices vary depending on what you order but expect to pay between $6-$15 per drink.
3. Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are optional activities that you can book through the cruise line or on your own. Prices vary depending on the activity and destination, but expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200 per person.
4. Specialty Dining
Most cruise ships offer specialty dining options such as steak houses and sushi bars for an additional fee. Expect to pay between $30-$50 per person for these experiences.
5. Spa Services
If you’re looking to relax and treat yourself, spa services such as massages and facials are available at an additional cost. Prices vary depending on the service and duration but expect to pay between $100-$200.
Budgeting Tips
Now that you have an idea of the expenses you can expect on a 3-day cruise, here are some budgeting tips to help you make the most out of your trip:
- Create a daily budget for yourself, including all expected expenses such as gratuities, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, specialty dining, and spa services.
- Plan ahead by researching shore excursions and specialty dining options before boarding the ship.
- Consider purchasing a beverage package if you plan on drinking more than a few alcoholic beverages during your trip.
- Avoid impulse purchases by setting aside a specific amount of money for souvenirs and sticking to it.
- If possible, try to book your cruise during off-peak season when prices tend to be lower.
In Conclusion
In summary, when planning for a 3-day cruise, it’s important to consider all potential expenses such as gratuities, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, specialty dining, and spa services. By creating a budget and planning ahead, you can ensure that you have enough money to fully enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. Happy cruising!