Princess Cruises Standard Fare: What’s Included & What’s Not

Written By Julie Davis
Princess Cruises Standard Fare-Sky Princess

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If you’re planning a Princess cruise in 2026, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to book the Standard Fare or upgrade to Princess Plus or Princess Premier. The Standard Fare is the base option — the “just the cruise” price — and it’s perfect for travelers who want flexibility, don’t drink much, or prefer to pay only for what they use.

But what exactly does the Standard Fare include? What will you pay extra for? And when does it make sense to stick with Standard instead of upgrading? This guide breaks it all down in simple, practical terms so you can choose the best option for your travel style and budget.⭐ What Is Princess Standard Fare?

Princess Standard Fare is the base cruise-only rate. It covers your stateroom, included dining, entertainment, and access to most onboard activities. Everything else — drinks, Wi‑Fi, specialty dining, gratuities, and extras — is pay‑as‑you‑go.

Think of Standard Fare as the “build your own cruise” option. You get the essentials, and you choose the add‑ons that matter to you. I personally have done Standard, Plus and Premier depending on who I am traveling with and where I am sailing.

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Ready to book your Princess cruise? Compare prices and find the best deals for 2026:

What’s Included With Princess Standard Fare?

Even without a package, you still get a full cruise experience. Here’s what’s included:

Included Dining

  • Main Dining Rooms

  • World Fresh Marketplace (buffet)

  • International Café (select items)

  • Slice (pizza)

  • Salty Dog Grill (included items)

  • Soft‑serve ice cream

  • Room service (delivery fee applies; however, many items are complimentary). I personally pay the fee when I book the standard fare on the first day of the cruise to maximize my use of it. I love having my speciality coffee delivered to my cabin each morning.

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Entertainment

  • Broadway‑style shows

  • Live music

  • Game shows

  • Movies Under the Stars

  • Enrichment talks

  • Trivia and activities

Amenities & Activities

  • Pools and hot tubs

  • Fitness center

  • Sports courts

  • Kids’ and teens’ clubs

  • MedallionClass features (ordering food, locating family, etc.)

Your Stateroom

  • Daily housekeeping

  • In‑room TV and movies

  • Basic toiletries

You’re not missing out on the core cruise experience — you’re simply paying for extras only if you want them.

What’s Not Included With Standard Fare?

🚫 Not Included:

  • Gratuities (charged daily unless you prepay)

  • Wi‑Fi

  • Alcoholic drinks

  • Specialty coffee

  • Sodas and bottled water

  • Specialty dining

  • Fitness classes

  • Casual dining cover charges (on some ships)

  • Room service delivery fee

  • Princess Prizes

  • Reserved seating or premium experiences

If you plan to buy several of these individually, the cost can add up quickly — which is why Princess Plus and Premier exist.

Learn more about the Packages Available:

Princess Plus Package

What’s included, who it’s best for, and how to maximize value. →  Princess Plus review

Princess Premier Package

Everything included, cost breakdown, and whether it’s worth it for your sailing style. → Princess Premier review

2026 Package Changes

A quick overview of what’s changing and how it affects future bookings. → 2026 package update


Not sure which package to choose? Check out my guide here: Princess Plus Vs Princess Premier




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When Does Standard Fare Make Sense?

Standard Fare is a smart choice if:

✔️ You don’t drink alcohol

Even one or two drinks a day won’t justify the cost of Plus.

✔️ You don’t need Wi‑Fi

Or you only need it for one device and plan to buy a single‑day pass.

✔️ You prefer to pay as you go

Some travelers simply don’t use enough extras to justify a package.

✔️ You’re on a port‑heavy itinerary

Mediterranean, Alaska, and Japan cruises often mean long days off the ship.

✔️ You’re using casino offers

Many casino offers already include perks — no need to double‑pay.

When You Shouldn’t Choose Standard Fare

Standard Fare is usually not the best value if:

❌ You drink 2+ alcoholic drinks per day

Plus becomes cheaper very quickly.

❌ You need Wi‑Fi for work or family

Buying Wi‑Fi à la carte is expensive.

❌ You plan to dine at specialty restaurants

Premier includes speciality dining

❌ You like convenience

Packages simplify your onboard spending.

Real‑World Example: Standard vs Plus

Let’s say you’re on a 7‑night cruise and you plan to buy:

  • 1 latte per day

  • 2 cocktails per day

  • Wi‑Fi for the week

  • Gratuities

Buying these individually often costs more than upgrading to Princess Plus — and you still wouldn’t get the extra perks.

But if you skip Wi‑Fi and don’t drink? Standard wins.

Who Is Princess Standard Fare Best For?

Princess Standard Fare is ideal for:

  • Families who don’t drink

  • Travelers who spend most of their time in port

  • Budget‑conscious cruisers

  • Casino players using comped or discounted sailings

  • Guests who prefer flexibility over bundles

If you’re the type who wants a simple cruise without paying for extras you won’t use, Standard Fare is the perfect fit.

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Final Thoughts: Is Princess Standard Fare Worth It?

Absolutely — if you’re a light spender or a flexible traveler. Standard Fare gives you the full Princess experience without locking you into a package. But if you want drinks, Wi‑Fi, specialty dining, or convenience, upgrading to Plus or Premier will almost always save you money. My parents never pay for Plus or Premier and have not once regretted it. When I travel with my sons who don’t drink, I skip the packages too. It can be a great deal, but not for everyone. -

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Julie Davis
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