How to Save Money and Avoid Buyer’s Remorse on Your Next Cruise

Cruises promise relaxation and adventure, but onboard spending can quickly turn a budget-friendly trip into a financial nightmare. From overpriced souvenirs to sneaky upsells, cruise lines are experts at separating passengers from their money. To help you sail smarter, here are 10 cruise ship purchases to avoid at all costs—plus savvy alternatives to keep your wallet happy.

1. Onboard Alcohol & Drink Packages

The Hidden Costs of Liquid Relaxation

While sipping a cocktail by the pool sounds idyllic, cruise ship drink prices are notoriously inflated. A basic beer often costs $7–$9, cocktails $12–$15+, and premium drink packages can exceed $100/day per person.

Why avoid it?

• Most lines allow passengers to bring limited wine (1–2 bottles) onboard.
• Port days offer cheaper local beers and cocktails at dockside bars.
• Opt for the free beverages included in your fare: water, juice, coffee, and tea.

Pro Tip: If you must buy alcohol, wait for happy hour specials or discounted “drink of the day” promotions.

2. Cruise-Branded Souvenirs

Logo Merchandise: Paying to Advertise for Them

From $30 T-shirts to $50 hats emblazoned with the cruise line’s logo, these items are low-quality cash grabs.

Why avoid it?

• Identical products are sold online post-cruise for 50% less.
• Port shops sell unique, locally made souvenirs with authentic cultural value.

Alternative: Collect free memorabilia like daily itineraries, cocktail napkins, or themed event invites.

3. Professional Photos

The $25 Selfie Trap

Photographers will ambush you at embarkation, dinners, and ports, but purchasing these photos costs $20–$50 per print.

Why avoid it?

• Use your smartphone for candid shots (most ships now allow photography in dining areas).
• Crew members are usually happy to take free group photos with your device.

Exception: Consider one formal night photo as a keepsake—but set a budget beforehand.

4. Premium Wi-Fi Packages

Slow Speeds, Sky-High Prices

Cruise ship internet remains notoriously slow and expensive, often costing $25–$35/day for spotty service.

Why avoid it?

• Embrace a digital detox—you’re on vacation!
• Use free Wi-Fi in port cafes (ask crew for recommendations).

If You Must Connect: Buy a 24-hour pass on a sea day rather than a full-cruise package.

5. Spa Services

The $200 Massage That Feels Like a Swindle

Onboard spas charge resort prices ($150+ massages, $75+ facials) but often rush services to accommodate bookings.

Why avoid it?

• Pre-book spa treatments at home for better prices.
• Use your ship’s free sauna/steam room (available on many luxury lines).

Alternative: Pack bath salts and create a DIY spa experience in your cabin’s tub.

6. “Duty-Free” Jewelry

The Portside Swindle

Onboard “duty-free” shops push “exclusive” gemstones and watches, but prices are rarely better than land-based retailers.

Red Flags:

• High-pressure sales tactics about “limited-time offers.”
• Vague return policies if you discover overpaying later.

Pro Tip: Research prices for specific items on your phone before buying.

7. Ship-Led Shore Excursions

The Convenience Tax

Cruise line excursions often cost 2–3x more than booking directly with local guides. A $150 snorkeling tour via the ship might be $60 onshore.

Why avoid it?

• Use reputable platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide for pre-vetted tours.
• Negotiate directly with taxi drivers at ports for custom itineraries.

Exception: Book ship excursions only if ports have safety concerns or tight timelines.

8. Art Auctions

The $10 Champagne, $5,000 Art Scheme

“Free” champagne art auctions lure passengers with bubbly, then pressure them into buying overpriced prints.

Why avoid it?

• Most pieces are mass-produced decor—not investment-grade art.
• Hidden fees (framing, shipping) can double the sticker price.

Alternative: Buy local art in port markets for authentic, reasonably priced pieces.

9. Last-Minute “Deals”

The Embarkation Day Upsell Scramble

As cabins sell out, cruise lines push overpriced upgrades ($100+ for dining packages, $200+ for room changes).

Why avoid it?

• Pre-book add-ons months in advance for discounts.
• Politely decline pushy sales pitches—the best deals are rarely last-minute.

Pro Tip: Use saved money to upgrade your next cruise early.

10. Overpriced Essentials

The $20 Sunscreen Scam

Forgot toothpaste, motion sickness pills, or sunscreen? Onboard shops charge resort prices for basic items.

Why avoid it?

• Pack a “cruise emergency kit” with medications and toiletries.
• Buy forgotten items in port—local pharmacies have fair prices.

Checklist: Sunscreen, seasickness bands, pain relievers, bandaids, and stain wipes.

Smart Cruise Spending: How to Allocate Your Budget

Instead of wasting money on the above, invest in experiences that enhance your trip:

• Specialty Dining: One or two meals at a premium restaurant (better quality than main dining rooms).
• Unique Activities: Cooking classes, behind-the-scenes ship tours, or wine tastings.
• Local Experiences: Cooking classes in port or handmade crafts from artisans.

By avoiding these 10 financial traps, you’ll disembark with unforgettable memories—and cash left over for your next voyage.

Bon voyage and happy saving!