Paying for Cruise Extras

Jan 6, 2025

—

Planning a cruise involves various decisions that shape your upcoming adventure. Understanding payment policies and onboard offerings helps ensure a smooth experience.

Deposit and Payment Policies

Understanding deposit and payment policies is important when booking a 2025 cruise. Different cruise lines have varied approaches:

Carnival Cruise Line requires a deposit when booking, which varies based on cruise length. Final payment is typically due 120 days before departure. Payment method changes are restricted after 24 hours.
Royal Caribbean requires deposits, usually around 10% of the ticket price for exclusive suites. Final payment dates are crucial to avoid cancellations. Holiday cruises may have different policies.
Norwegian Cruise Line employs a structured payment schedule. Deposits for general cabins are typically $250 for cruises longer than seven days. Haven suites require a 10% trip cost deposit. Final payments are due 120 days in advance. Group bookings and festive voyages may have different deposit structures.
Celebrity Cruises often asks for early bird deposits to lock in prices. Final payments are due around 90 days before sailing. Payment method changes have a 24-hour window post-booking.
Princess Cruises typically requires deposits at 10% of the cruise fare, with higher percentages for some premium and holiday itineraries. Balance settlement is often due 90 to 120 days before sailing.
Holland America Line usually requires a deposit of around 10% of the cruise fare. Group bookings may have different requirements. Holiday season bookings may have additional conditions.

Extras by Cruise Line

Each cruise line offers different extra services that can affect your overall experience and budget:

Cruise Line	Specialty Dining	Wi-Fi Plans	Beverage Package
Carnival Cruise Line	$15-$50 per person	$12.75-$17 per day	Around $60 per day, plus gratuity
Royal Caribbean	$35-$50 per meal	$13-$20 per day	$56-$105 per day, varies by ship and itinerary
Norwegian Cruise Line	$20-$50 per person, with package options available	Starting around $12.50 per day	About $99 per person, per day (if not included in promotions)

Drink Packages Analysis

Drink packages can offer benefits for those who enjoy various beverages throughout the day:

Carnival Cruise Line's Cheers! Beverage Program:
- Cost: $59.95 per person, per day (pre-purchase) or $64.95 onboard
- Includes: Beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, sodas, nonalcoholic beverages
- Limitations: $20 per drink limit, 15 alcoholic drinks per day, all adults in cabin must purchase
Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package:
- Cost: $56-$105 per day, varies by itinerary and ship
- Includes: Alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, premium coffee and teas
- Limitations: Excludes souvenir glassware and specialty beers, all adults in cabin must purchase
- Norwegian Cruise Line’s More at Sea Unlimited Beverage Package:
  - Cost: $89 per day plus taxes and fees (if not included in promotions)
  - Includes: Cocktails, wine by the glass, beers, soft drinks
  - Limitations: All adults in cabin must purchase
  - Celebrity Cruises’ Premium Drink Package:
    - Cost: $104.99 per day
    - Includes: Craft beers, premium cocktails, specialty coffees
    - Limitations: Excludes in-room minibar and room service drinks
    Understanding cruise policies and extras helps manage your budget and expectations for your cruise experience. Remember, prices and policies may change, so always check with your specific cruise line for the most up-to-date information when booking your 2025 cruise.