Hidden Costs on Free Cruises and How to Avoid Them
Free Cruises - What you really need to know
Scoring a “free” cruise through casino offers or loyalty perks sounds like the ultimate travel hack—but seasoned cruisers know that free rarely means zero cost. From port fees and gratuities to pricey beverage packages and shore excursions, hidden expenses can quickly turn your complimentary getaway into a costly surprise. In this guide, I’ll break down the most common add-ons you’ll encounter and share smart strategies to keep your casino-earned cruises truly budget-friendly. It still can be an amazing deal! I love Free Cruises and take advantage of these offers often.
Want to learn how I started getting free cruises? Start Here -> Princess Players Club: Casino Offers + Points Strategy
🧾 1. Port Fees and Taxes
Even casino offers and points bookings don’t cover mandatory port charges, government taxes, and fees. These can range from $80 to $300+ depending on itinerary and cruise line. Avoid it: Compare total cost across cruise lines before booking. Thanks to a new law all cruise lines are showing you the total price when you search on their website. My casino offers used to say $0 but now they show taxes and fees as my total. This helps me compare my deals.
🍽️ 2. Specialty Dining and Upsells
Your “free” cruise includes main dining, but specialty restaurants, chef’s tables, and wine pairings cost extra for most cruise lines. Avoid it: Stick to included venues or use onboard credits strategically. Some cruise lines offer dining packages — compare the value before sailing. I do upgrade some of my cruises, but not all of them. I sail Princess Cruises often and find it not always the best for me to upgrade to the Plus Plan -> Is Princess Plus Package worth it?
🧴 3. Gratuities and Service Charges
Gratuities are often auto-added daily (e.g., $14–$20 per person). Even “free” drinks from casino offers may include service fees. Avoid it: Budget for tips or prepay if allowed. Use loyalty status or elite perks to offset.
📶 4. Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Internet packages are rarely included. Even basic messaging may cost $10–$20/day. Avoid it: Use credit cards with Wi-Fi perks or loyalty status that includes free internet. Download offline maps and entertainment before sailing.
🍹 5. Beverage Packages and Alcohol
Most “free” cruises don’t include alcohol unless it’s a casino or loyalty perk. Drink packages can be $60–$100/day. Avoid it: Bring allowed beverages onboard (check cruise policy). Use casino drink vouchers or sail on Virgin Voyages where drinks are more inclusive. When I get free drinks in the casino. I always make sure to tip. First, it’s a good practice, but the casino workers will search you out when you need your next drink!
🛳️ 6. Shore Excursions
Excursions are rarely included and can cost $50–$300+ per person. Avoid it: Book independently or use credit card travel portals with cashback. Some cruise lines offer free excursions with elite status or promos.
🧼 7. Room Service and Convenience Fees
Some cruise lines charge for room service or late-night delivery. Avoid it: Check your cruise’s policy. Use included snacks or buffet options instead.
🧳 8. Travel to the Port
Flights, hotels, and transfers aren’t covered. Avoid it: Use points for flights and hotels. Book early to use travel credits or companion passes. Check out my How I booked this section, where I break down all my trips on Points and miles -> Real Points & Miles Adventures.
Final Tips to Cruise Free Without Surprise Costs
Use credit cards that offer travel credits, Wi-Fi, and lounge access.
Stack casino offers, loyalty perks, and portal bonuses.
Always read the fine print — “free” rarely means zero cost.
Final Thoughts
Scoring a “free” cruise through casino offers or loyalty perks sounds like the ultimate travel hack—but seasoned cruisers know that free rarely means zero cost. From port fees and gratuities to pricey beverage packages and shore excursions, hidden expenses can quickly turn your complimentary getaway into a costly surprise. In this guide, I’ll break down the most common add-ons you’ll encounter and share smart strategies to keep your casino-earned cruises truly budget-friendly
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Check out the trips I have booked on points and miles -> Real Points & Miles Adventures
