Cruise Budget Calculator
Estimate the total cost of your next cruise.
Per traveler, per day.
Cruise Budgeting Strategies
A cruise fare often covers only a portion of the total cost of the trip. To build a realistic budget, start with the base fare and then add port fees, gratuities, and any shore excursions, beverage packages, or internet packages you plan to purchase. Gratuities are usually charged automatically per person, per day, so multiplying that daily rate by the number of travelers and the length of the cruise gives a clearer picture of the total amount you will pay before you even step onboard.
Hidden Cruise Costs
Many cruisers are surprised by costs that are not included in the advertised fare. Specialty dining, spa treatments, photos, casino spending, and souvenirs can add up quickly. Beverage packages and internet packages are often presented as convenient add-ons but can represent a significant share of the total cost, especially on longer cruises. Shore excursions booked through the cruise line also tend to cost more than independently arranged tours. Reviewing these categories before you sail can help you decide where to spend and where to cut back.
FAQ
What is included in the total cruise cost?
The total cruise cost combines your cruise fare, port fees, gratuities for all travelers across the full cruise, excursions, beverage and internet packages, and any miscellaneous costs you enter.
How are gratuities calculated?
Gratuities are calculated per traveler, per day. The calculator multiplies your gratuities per day by the number of cruise days and by the number of travelers to get the total gratuities for your cruise.
Are flights and pre-cruise hotel stays included?
No. This calculator focuses on costs directly tied to the cruise itself, such as the fare, port fees, gratuities, excursions, and onboard packages. Add flights, transfers, and hotel stays separately to your overall trip budget.
Why should I budget for excursions and packages separately?
Excursions, beverage packages, and internet packages are often optional add-ons that can significantly increase the cost of a cruise beyond the advertised fare. Entering them separately helps you see how much they add to your total cost per traveler and per day.
How can I use the cost per day figure?
Cost per day spreads your total cruise cost evenly across the length of the cruise, which makes it easier to compare cruises of different lengths or to compare a cruise against other types of vacations on a daily basis.