Money saving tips

Where possible, everyone loves to save money on their cruise holiday. Cruises don’t have to be expensive, but at the same time – and every pound or dollar you save is money you can put towards your next cruise.

Who doesn’t love saving money on a cruise? While cruises can offer incredible value, they’re rarely cheap – and every pound or dollar you save is more you can put towards your next adventure at sea.

And trust me… once you’ve been on one cruise, you’ll definitely want another!

If you’re on the hunt for a bargain, you’re probably wondering when is the cheapest time to book a cruise. There isn’t one magic answer, but in this guide, I’ll break down the best months to sail — and how to get the lowest prices possible.

The Cheapest Months for Cruises: Revealed!

The cheapest month to go on a cruise depends on where you’re sailing. In the Caribbean, it’s typically May or late September/early October, known as the shoulder season. In Europe, winter cruises are cheaper, although Christmas can be expensive.

There are a number of different factors to consider when booking a cheap cruise, all of which can have an impact on the price. Unsurprisingly, the summer break tends to be the most expensive time. 

Suggested read: 10 Reasons Why October is the Best Time to Cruise

Remember that you’ll need to check school holiday times for countries relevant to your departure too – Caribbean cruises are more expensive during US school holidays, while European cruises are impacted by typical UK and European holidays.

It’s not just about avoiding school holidays, though – especially as many cruises aren’t necessarily aimed at families. Other factors include the weather and just general demand levels.

For European cruises and some Asian cruises, that might mean booking a cruise when the weather isn’t too warm. But this might also encourage you to save money by not booking a balcony stateroom, since it might be too chilly to fully enjoy it.

For a Caribbean cruise, it’s not so much the temperature, but ‘bad weather’ tends to refer to hurricane season.

It’s not a risk – cruise ships are equipped with cutting-edge tech to make sure they can avoid hurricanes. But it might mean the seas are a bit more choppy, and it can also mean last-minute changes to your itinerary.

A Caribbean cruise during hurricane season isn’t a definitive list of where you’ll sail – call it ‘Plan A’ instead.

Read more: What Happens If There’s A Hurricane During Your Cruise?

And it’s not something you can pinpoint to whole months. European cruises are often cheapest in early December, when the weather can be quite cold and rainy, and demand is low because people are gearing up for the holiday season, rather than booking an actual holiday.

But if you were to look towards the end of December, demand can be a lot higher – and therefore so can prices – because people like to often get away and cruise at Christmas.

One other option is to look at Transatlantic cruises in the typical shoulder months of April and September/October when ships are relocated from the Caribbean to Europe or vice versa. If you aren’t too bothered about your destination and just want a cheap cruise, you can often get great deals on these sailings.

Read more: How Long Is A Transatlantic Cruise?

So in summary, there’s no single month that is the cheapest, but instead, if you want to be flexible with your sailing date and you want to save money, look for:

• When school holidays are for the region you wish to sail from
• What the weather is like, and how that might impact your cruise
• Any other reasons demand may be low in that part of the world

These will help you find the cheapest times of the year to cruise.

When Caribbean Cruises Are Cheapest

The peak season for the Caribbean is December to April, when it is driest – cheaper months tend to experience more rainfall and the risk of hurricanes causing changes to itineraries.

With a cheap Caribbean cruise, you need to expect that your itinerary may change while you are at sea, and there can even be some rare occasions where you may be delayed getting back into port. It’s important that you have robust travel insurance to cover any lost money for missed connections or flight changes.

The Caribbean is a good choice for cheap cruises because it’s also where you’ll find a lot of the older cruise ships still sailing, which will have cheaper fares.

When Alaska Cruises Are Cheapest

The cheapest times to cruise to Alaska are right at the start of the season and at the end. In spring and autumn, schools are still in session, and the weather is a little bit colder and can be more unpredictable than during the summer months.

Of course, in Alaska, this is less of an issue – it’s not like a cruise from May to September is going to be the warmest anyway, and you can still get rainy days quite frequently. So the ‘disadvantages’ that come with booking a cheaper month aren’t that much of a downside.

Alaskan shore excursions are often quite expensive, due to the nature of the tours you’ll likely be taking, so saving money by booking during the shoulder season is advisable if you can.

Suggested read: Guide to Alaska Cruise Ports (With Map)

When Hawaii Cruises Are Cheapest

The cheapest months to cruise to Hawaii are from November to early December. This is when the weather is a little cooler, there’s a little more rainfall, and the crowds are at their lowest.

Hawaii is dry and hot during the summer months, and in April, May, September and October it tends to balance the heat with some more refreshing showers. So the cheapest months to cruise to Hawaii are outside of these during the winter, November to March, but not during the holiday season.

However, because fares are lower, a lot of Americans will book from mid-December through to March to escape their own winter chill, and that can bump prices up a little with increased demand. That’s why November and early December are the best choices.

When booking a cruise to Hawaii, you should consider whether you’ll fly to Hawaii or start your cruise from another US Coast or Canada. As Hawaii is so remote, cruises to Hawaii can be quite long, so this can make them expensive.

When European Cruises Are Cheapest

While your sailing options may be very limited, as many ships have crossed the Atlantic to sail in warmer winter waters, the cheapest months to cruise in Europe are November, early December, January and February. For a wider choice of ships, choose April or September.

Many cruise lines will relocate their ships from Europe to the Caribbean over the winter months, because there’s a much bigger market over there to make the most of the warm weather. 

There are some limited options in Europe for the winter, but expect chilly weather and choppy seas, especially if you cruise through the Bay of Biscay at this time. This is not the time to cruise in this area if you suffer from seasickness.

When Australia Cruises Are Cheapest

The cheapest month to cruise around Australia tends to be May. This is the winter season for the southern hemisphere, and it’s also when Australian schools tend to be in session, along with most UK and US schools at this time too. June and August are other good choices.

Expect the weather to be a little colder – it’d be the same as booking a US or European cruise in around September/October time. But the crowds should be much lower too, as the peak cruise season for Australia tends to run from December to April.

Definitely avoid the Christmas season, as that’s usually the most expensive – schools are on holiday and the weather is at its best.

When Disney Cruises Are Cheapest

While it will depend on the ship and location, the cheapest month to book a Disney cruise tends to be February, when most schools are back in session. It’s the best time if you have kids younger than school age, or you’re willing to take them out of school for their cruise.

As a guide, Disney (including cruises and land holidays) tends to bump up their fares for special occasions. And so booking a cruise in November and December tends to mean you’ll get a special Christmas-themed sailing. And it’s the same with late September and October, which are fun-packed Halloween cruises.

A February cruise is out of season and doesn’t have a special theme to make the cruise cost more. But bear in mind that if you’re travelling from Europe, it may be more expensive as ships are more likely to be in the Caribbean at this time, so you’ll need flights too.

When Carnival Cruises Are Cheapest

The cheapest month for a Carnival cruise depends on your destination. Most ships are based around the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico, especially in winter, and the cheapest cruises are in low-demand February or late April as the shoulder season.

For Carnival cruises in Europe, early September tends to be the cheapest time to sail, as you’ll benefit from the school holidays having ended. But you’ll pay a lot more than you would in the Caribbean – around $850 for an Inside stateroom for 9 days compared to $350 for an off-season Inside stateroom in the Caribbean.

The best value cruises are often transatlantic cruises. While not the cheapest, they tend to cost around $750-850 per person for a two-week cruise in an Inside stateroom.

When Royal Caribbean Cruises Are Cheapest

The cheapest month to take a Royal Caribbean cruise in the Caribbean is October, when hurricane season will cause increased rainfall and potential itinerary changes. The cheapest Royal Caribbean cruises in Europe tend to occur in May, outside of school holidays.

With Royal Caribbean, and similarly with Carnival, the ship matters more than the destination. There are many older, smaller ships in their respective fleets which have nowhere near the number of features or dining options, and these will be much cheaper than the newest ships.

So if you’re happy on an older ship and you find a sailing during one of these cheaper months, you could get a cruise at a fantastic price.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Ships Listed By Age

The Bottom Line

Deal-hunting is always a good idea when trying to book a cruise, but don’t let it compromise your holiday. If you love the idea of a balcony stateroom, don’t try to book a cruise when it’ll be cold and rainy, or you won’t make the most of it.

But if you’re someone who doesn’t mind the cold or the rain and you just want the cheapest cruises possible, and you’re able to be flexible on your chosen dates, then these tips will hopefully help you save and afford even more cruises in future.

Related Posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Even on cruise lines that are marketed as being all-inclusive, there are still plenty of opportunities for you to be separated from your money while you’re sailing.

Some of the things you can buy on a cruise ship are absolutely worth it. And hey, it’s your money – you do what you want with it even if something doesn’t represent good value.

But there are plenty of things that aren’t good value, and that I’d never buy onboard a cruise…

1. Art From the Auctions

Cruise ship art auctions often present themselves as glamorous affairs, complete with Champagne and persuasive auctioneers encouraging quick decisions.

I’d even recommend popping along sometimes just to grab a free drink – no harm in that!

However, the art pieces themselves are frequently overpriced, and valuations might be less trustworthy than they appear. Art bought onboard can also be tricky to authenticate or resell later.

If you’re keen on purchasing art, take some notes and research the artists once you’re back home – you’re likely to find better deals and more reliable information through reputable galleries or online.

If you want to splurge because you’ve seen something you love, and there’s a competitive bid for it, then by all means go for it.

I did once get a great deal on a gorgeous piece of art on a ship. It only cost $30! However, when I went to pay for it, I was offered framing and shipping which would have cost around $500 on top!

I delclined the framing and took it to a local framing ship where it cost around £40 for a lovely frame. However, I did still have to pay $60 for postage. All in all, I still feel I got a good deal, even though it cost a lot more overall than the initial price.

2. Designer Jewellery and Watches

It can be tempting to splurge on designer jewellery and watches during a cruise, especially when you’re relaxed and enjoying your holiday.

But beware: onboard boutiques often have significant markups despite promises of duty-free prices.

Also, if you buy an item worth more than £390 and bring it into the UK, you’ll have to declare it at customs and pay 20% VAT on the value over £390. If you live in the USA, the allowance is 3% on anything over $800, so less, but still worth considering.

While a watch or necklace might seem like the perfect souvenir, you’ll usually find more competitive pricing – and better guarantees – through established jewellers back home or reputable online retailers. If you have a problem with an item you bought, it can be really tricky to return.

Enjoy browsing, but consider buying later. A souvenir that’s inspired by your cruise, even if you didn’t buy it onboard, is still worth having. And if you aren’t that fussed about genuine designer items, you’ll often find cheaper options in port anyway.

3. Drinks Packages

If you enjoy wine, cocktails, or other drinks regularly, buying individual beverages onboard can quickly become a budget-buster. However, onboard drinks packages themselves are often more expensive if bought during your trip.

Cruise lines almost always offer discounted rates if you pre-book online, saving you potentially hundreds of pounds.

Plan ahead, think realistically about your drinking habits, and snap up those early-bird deals to ensure your bar tab stays manageable. If you’re buying your package onboard, you’re almost certainly overpaying.

4. Individual Cocktails

If you’re someone who loves sipping cocktails or enjoying several glasses of wine daily, paying individually can rack up a hefty bill.

Drinks onboard are notoriously expensive when purchased separately. Instead, spend a few minutes doing the maths before your cruise.

If you’re likely to indulge regularly, a pre-booked drinks package is almost certainly the smarter move financially.

For some people it will be, especially for cocktails and glasses of wine. But if you stick to beer, or if you don’t plan on drinking a lot while you sail, then you’re probably overpaying.

My drinks package calculator can help you work out what the best tactic is for you.

5. WiFi Packages

Onboard WiFi can be surprisingly costly and frustratingly slow. Things are getting better in terms of speed, thanks to Starlink satellite WiFi being added across fleets, but it’s still often nothing close to what you’ll get at home.

And yet, cruise ships often charge premium rates when you buy internet access, especially if you’re paying after setting sail. To dodge this, book your WiFi package before you leave home to get significantly better prices, if you absolutely need the WiFi onboard.

Alternatively, if your itinerary has plenty of ports, you’ll find numerous cafes and restaurants onshore offering free, reliable WiFi – perfect for uploading holiday snaps or catching up on emails without draining your wallet.

Or consider an alternative such as an eSIM, which could save you a lot compared to the cruise line’s own WiFi prices.

6. Spa Treatments at Regular Price

The onboard spa is a luxurious temptation, promising relaxation and indulgence – but it often comes at eye-watering prices, especially on sea days.

We’re talking treatments that can cost well past the $200 mark, so if you wanted several? Expect a hefty bill.

Instead, wait for port-day specials, when spa treatments can see good discounts. Or at least keep an eye out for promotions onboard to bring the cost down. A lot of spas will offer discounts based on the number of treatments you book – bulk booking means cheaper.

Even better, why not book a spa day ashore at a local resort, which often offers far better value and a memorable local experience? Your wallet (and your holiday selfies) will thank you.

And if you do visit the spa on a ship, beware of the upsells. That moisturiser they want to sell you after your facial? You can probably get the exact same thing for a fraction of the price at home.

Read more: The 9 Most Overpriced Extras On A Cruise

7. Souvenir Photos

Cruise ship photographers are everywhere, snapping photos that you might be tempted to buy later. However, these pictures often come with surprisingly high price tags, making them a poor value for money.

Instead, take your own photos with your phone or camera – ask fellow passengers or friendly crew members to snap a few shots for you.

All you’re going to miss out on is the fancy green-screen backdrops, and are they really necessary?

Opt for the DIY photos and you’ll capture the same great memories without breaking your holiday budget.

However, some cruise lines will include photos depending on your fare – Princess Premier guests get three prints included plus unlimited digital pics! So then it can be worth it.

Suggested read: 8 Expert Tips To Capture Perfect Cruise Photos

8. Basic Toiletries and Meds

Onboard shops sell basic toiletries and medicines at a premium, capitalising on the desperation factor if you’ve forgotten essentials like toothpaste, sunscreen or painkillers.

Avoid these inflated prices by double-checking your packing list before sailing. Easier said than done though, right?

If something slips your mind, and you aren’t utterly desperate, wait until you dock at the next port, where supermarkets and pharmacies offer far better prices and more variety.

You usually don’t have to wander too far into port to find a good option.

9. Casino Games

Cruise ship casinos promise excitement, glitz, and glamour, but the house advantage can be even steeper than usual.

Unless you’re genuinely keen on gambling as entertainment and have set a strict budget, it’s wise to steer clear, especially if you’ve been making the most of that drinks package you shouldn’t have bought onboard.

Consider it a bit of fun if you choose to participate, but don’t expect to strike it rich onboard – you’re often better off saving your cash for enjoyable activities ashore.

Read more: What You Must Know Before Hitting The Cruise Ship Casino

10. Expensive Fitness Classes

Cruise lines will always have plenty of options for keeping fit onboard. There’s usually a running track and a gym that you can make use of, but they’ll also offer fitness classes at premium prices, leveraging your desire to stay active during your holiday.

While a sunrise yoga session or high-energy spin class might sound appealing, remember there are plenty of free alternatives onboard.

While the offer of unlimited classes for $99 might sound good on day one, after getting up at 6 am for the first couple, you might get bored of them.

Enjoy the gym facilities, join free group activities offered by cruise staff, or simply walk and jog the outdoor decks for equally good exercise and lovely sea views – without the extra charge.

Even if you just skip the elevator and use the stairs, you’ll probably burn off that dessert you’re half-regretting.

Again, Princess Plus and Premier fares include fitness classes, so check your fare to see if any are free.

11. Bottled Water Unless You’re Really Particular

Buying bottled water onboard quickly becomes an expensive habit, not to mention environmentally unfriendly.

Instead, bring your own refillable water bottle and top it up at the ship’s numerous water stations, which provide clean, safe drinking water.

Most ships have several places where you can refill your water bottle. You’ll always find one in the gym.

Refilling your bottle from the water dispensers in the buffet isn’t allowed for hygiene reasons as these machines are designed to fill glasses. To get around that, all you’ll need to do is fill a clean glass with water and decant it into your bottle.

The tap water in your cabin is typically perfectly safe to drink, too. It might not be the freshest water but it’s fine for a midnight sip if the air-con has given you a dry throat.

Doing this helps your budget, keeps you hydrated, and reduces plastic waste – an easy win all around.

12. Health supplements

On your cruise programme you’ll often see free heath seminars advertised. These have names like ‘Eat More to Weigh Less’ or ‘How To Remove Your Aches And Pains’.

While these seminars may give you some useful information, you should be aware that the main point of them is to sell you extras. The ‘secret cure’ is often several hundreds dollars worth of supplements that you just don’t need.

The same goes for the ‘footprint analysis’. If you genuinely do need insoles for your shoes, you can get them from the NHS for free, or online for about £20.

Controversial One – Shore Excursions

I’ve not put this in the numbered list because I know how much it splits opinion. However, I’m pretty confident that I would never buy a shore excursion onboard a cruise anymore.

A lot of people prefer to book via the cruise line for security reasons. They want to be absolutely sure that they won’t miss the ship, because they know that with an unofficial excursion provider, they’d be left behind.

But I recommend using third-party excursion providers like Shore Excursion Group because they can save you so much money.

And that fear about missing the ship? They guarantee that won’t happen. And if it does, they’ll pay for your transport to meet the ship at the next port, and they’ll compensate you with $1,000 for the inconvenience.

Almost makes me want it to happen!

Final Word

Like I said at the start, your money is your money. You spend it however you want to. If you want to pay for premium fitness classes, or expensive souvenirs, then you do you.

But I know that a lot of people can’t afford to be completely frivolous when cruising, and would rather scrimp and save just a little bit – even if that’s only to put more money towards another cruise.

Hopefully these tips help those people out – but don’t stress if you open up the purse strings a little. Have fun, but don’t be getting that post-cruise regret once you settle your bill.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

While most people save money by skipping lattes or cancelling subscriptions, one couple took cost-cutting to a whole new level: they sold nearly everything they owned and made cruise ships their permanent home.

Monica and Jorell decided to leave behind their traditional lifestyle – jobs, house, and all – to become full-time cruisers.

Since setting sail in early 2023, they’ve completed 36 cruises, visited over 45 countries, and you won’t believe what they say about the cost of the lifestyle…

It Started With A Crisis

For Monica Brzoska, the decision to leave land wasn’t just driven by a desire to travel – it was sparked by a personal turning point.

In 2022, during her father’s serious health battle that required a liver transplant, a heartfelt conversation with her mother left a lasting impact. Her mum told her, “Don’t wait for retirement to follow your dreams. Do it now.”

That advice stuck. The couple already had a weeklong Caribbean cruise planned for March 2023, but what began as a getaway quickly evolved into a complete lifestyle transformation.

Monica recalled her mum suggesting, “Instead of coming back, why not keep booking consecutive cruises for as long as you can afford to?”

By the time they boarded that first ship from Miami, Monica and Jorell had resigned from their jobs, sold off most of their belongings, and committed to a life at sea – with a carefully planned budget in hand.

More Than Just Vacation

Cruising full-time isn’t just about exotic ports and sunset views. For Monica and Jorell, it’s also about freedom from everyday responsibilities.

“All my meals are cooked by chefs, and staff change my bedding,” Monica said. “I haven’t stepped into a kitchen or touched a washing machine in over a year.” That’s a pretty sweet exchange for giving up the daily grind.

Their days are filled with activities like trivia, live shows, crafts and spa time. Evenings often mean dressing up for dinner and enjoying their ritual date nights.

Jorell can usually be found chatting to new people or catching live performances on board.

It’s Surprisingly Affordable!

At first glance, cruising full-time might sound like a luxury only the ultra-wealthy can afford. But Monica and Jorell say it’s more affordable than many assume.

Back in Memphis, their monthly costs – rent, groceries, utilities, commuting – added up quickly.

By contrast, cruise living offered them lodging, meals, entertainment, and travel, often for less. Thanks to their status with Carnival from past cruises, they scored significant loyalty discounts.

Their strategy? Book the most economical cabins and take advantage of their pandemic-era savings.

The result: they managed to line up eight months of cruising for under $10,000. Some cruises were fully paid upfront; others required only small deposits.

To supplement their lifestyle, they kept ownership of their Memphis home and began renting it out – providing a steady stream of income while they sailed.

How They Stretch Their Budget

While their lifestyle may sound extravagant, Monica and Jorell insist it’s rooted in smart planning and frugal choices.

They often skip pricey excursions, opting instead to explore cities on foot or by public transport. Onboard raffles have even won them spa treatments, jewellery, and shore activities – just for participating.

Their loyalty status with Carnival Cruise Line has also paid dividends, offering perks like onboard credits and exclusive discounts that help them save even more.

To them, this is more than travel – it’s a sustainable, intentional way to live.

It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing

Life on a cruise ship isn’t without its downsides. Monica and Jorell are candid about the challenges.

Being away from family is the toughest part. They miss birthdays, holidays, and ordinary moments. Still, knowing they can catch a flight home in an emergency offers some comfort.

There are also occasional stretches of boredom or feelings of homesickness. But as Monica puts it, “We don’t know how long our money will last, but in the meantime, we’re making the most of every minute.”

A Life Filled With “Glimmers”

Before they set sail, Monica and Jorell would talk about catching “glimmers” – those fleeting moments when life feels truly magical.

Now, Monica says, their life is full of them.

With no daily chores or deadlines, they’ve found a deeper sense of peace.

Each day brings new places, new faces, and more opportunities to simply enjoy each other’s company. Their marriage has also grown stronger thanks to uninterrupted time together and shared adventures.

Is Life at Sea for You?

Monica and Jorell’s journey isn’t just about travel – it’s about rethinking what life can look like. They traded a conventional routine for a floating lifestyle filled with spontaneity, simplicity, and joy.

It’s not a path for everyone. But for those dreaming of more freedom, fewer possessions, and richer experiences, it just might be worth considering.

After all, you don’t need to be rich to live richly – you just need a plan, some flexibility, and a willingness to step outside the norm.

So, would you trade it all for life on the ocean?

Make sure you follow Monica and Jorell on their Instagram channel, life_by_any_means.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

The amount of money that some people spend at the cruise ship casino is scary.

Each to their own, of course – and for some, the casino is the main reason they want to sail, and they often enjoy a ton of perks because of that.

But if you’re inexperienced with the whole world of gambling onboard a ship, there are some things you need to know before you start. Otherwise, there’s a chance you could end up ruining your entire getaway…

1. The Odds Aren’t Always As Good As They Are On Land

Cruise ship casinos don’t always offer the same odds as land-based venues – so it’s important that you know your odds of winning might be reduced.

Games like blackjack may pay 6-to-5 instead of the standard 3-to-2, which gives the house a bigger edge.

Slot machines also tend to have lower return-to-player (RTP) rates. Since cruise casinos operate under the laws of the ship’s flag state, they may not be subject to the strict regulations you’d find on land.

It’s worth doing a bit of research on typical payouts before you sit down to play.

2. The Rules Might Be Different To What You’re Used To

Each cruise line – and even each ship – may have different house rules for the same games.

Blackjack might have limited doubling options (important if your tactic is to double your bet when you lose), or poker tables may use auto-shufflers.

Minimum and maximum bets vary too, so it’s a good idea to scan the table signage or ask the dealer before joining in.

Familiarising yourself with the rules avoids confusion and can help you make smarter betting decisions once you’re playing.

3. Many Cruisers Swear By Casino Loyalty Programmes

Most cruise lines offer casino loyalty schemes that reward you for time and money spent playing.

Royal Caribbean has Club Royale, Celebrity Cruises has the Blue Chip Club, NCL has the Casinos At Sea Rewards programme, Carnival has the Carnival Players Club… The list goes on!

The more you play, the more perks you earn – from free drinks and cabin upgrades to discounted or even complimentary cruises.

The most popular schemes for big spenders give you a combination of free cruises, free casino credit and free drinks pacckages.

These benefits usually apply to your next cruise. However, on some ships, you can earn small perks that you can use right away on your current cruise.

I enjoyed playing the machines on Costa Smeralda because they had a bar that would fill up as you bet. Once it’s full, a free drink is added to your account. I got free drinks in the casino every night. Sometimes I would play for five minutes just to get the drink, then walk out and take it with me!

Also, the general cruise loyalty system might include a couple of (small) casino perks too – maybe a small free bet. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society members get a $2 FreePlay if they’re Gold status, up to $6 for Emerald and above.

4. Casinos Only Open When The Ship’s At Sea

Cruise casinos typically close when the ship is in port, due to local gambling laws. They usually open once the ship is in international waters – often around 12 nautical miles offshore.

This can mean odd opening hours, especially if your itinerary includes lots of port days.

Check the cruise line’s app or daily schedule to see when the casino is open. Planning around those hours means you won’t miss a chance to play.

5. If You Play On Land, Take Advantage of Status Matching

Already a member of a land-based casino loyalty scheme?

Some cruise lines offer status matching, giving you similar perks onboard based on your existing membership elsewhere.

This could mean free drinks, VIP access, or even free cruises without having to start from scratch.

Just be sure to ask in advance – status matching usually requires you to contact customer service before your trip and provide proof of your current tier level. It’s not often advertised, either – but no harm in asking, right?

6. Look Out for Casino Promotions

Cruise ship casinos regularly offer limited-time promotions – things like free slot play, match-play vouchers, raffles, or prize draws.

Sometimes just being in the casino at a certain time can enter you into a lucky draw. These offers are often advertised through the app, flyers, or during announcements.

Taking advantage of these bonuses can stretch your playing budget and even boost your chances of winning something special.

7. Sometimes The Casino Is Smoky

Many cruise ship casinos still allow smoking, either throughout the venue or in designated areas.

If you’re sensitive to smoke, this might impact your enjoyment. Some ships offer smoke-free casino nights or non-smoking sections.

Policies vary not only by cruise line, but also by individual ship, so it’s worth checking before you sail.

For example, the newer Norwegian Cruise Line ships have designated the main casinos as smoke-free, but have smaller secondary casinos that have an enclosed, smaller section for smokers.

Whereas on the biggest Royal Caribbean ships, expect the main casino to have smoking and non-smoking sides, but with dedicated sections also for non-smokers.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Ditches Jazz Clubs In Favour Of Smoke-Free Casinos

8. Set a Budget – And Stick To It

It’s easy to get carried away in a casino, especially when you’re using a cruise card instead of physical cash.

Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend overall – and perhaps even daily – and treat it like part of your entertainment budget.

Many experienced cruisers suggest separating your casino money from other spending. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

That way, you enjoy the thrill without the financial regrets.

9. Quit While You’re Ahead

If you’re lucky enough to hit a big win, don’t fall into the trap of feeding it all back into the machine.

Set a goal: if you double your money, maybe cash out half and play with the rest. Cruise casinos pay out manually, so you’ll need to visit the cashier.

Some players even stash their winnings in the cabin safe so they’re not tempted to gamble it all away later.

10. Don’t Forget To Cash Out At The End Of Your Cruise

If you forget to visit the cashier on the last night of your cruise, you’ll lose all your winnings! You can’t do it remotely and the casino will be closed on the morning of disembarkation.

You might be lucky enough to be able to hold onto a winnings slip until another cruise, but that won’t always apply – and also, what if you weren’t sailing with that cruise line again?

Set an alarm reminder on your phone if you’re worried that you might forget!

11. Don’t Skip the Casino Orientation

On embarkation day or the first evening, cruise ships often hold a casual casino orientation session.

These are great for beginners – you’ll learn how the games work, meet the staff, and maybe even score a free play voucher or raffle ticket.

It’s a relaxed way to get your bearings before jumping into a table game or slot machine. Even experienced players might pick up useful tips about ship-specific rules or promotions.

12. Follow the (Unwritten) Etiquette

A little courtesy goes a long way in the casino.

Don’t touch other players’ chips or cards, and try not to distract the dealer or others during a hand.

Tipping the dealer for good service or a win is customary and appreciated. Keep your phone use discreet, and remember to be patient – some fellow players may be learning.

In terms of playing slots, things get a little murky. If you need to visit the bathroom, you can leave a note on the machine if you don’t want anyone to play it, and ask someone to watch it for you.

Once, someone left credit in the machine and walked away (but left a note and asked someone to keep an eye). Someone walked up, ignored the warnings and started playing – and then got angry with the returning player before a brawl broke out!

I also heard a story of a woman who asked two other women to mind her machine while she went to the bathroom. She also left her purse on the chair, which contained $1,000 cash! When she returned, the two women, and her purse, were nowhere to be seen. And unfortunately the ship’s CCTV didn’t cover that area.

Respecting casino etiquette makes the experience better for everyone. Be nice.

13. Don’t Forget About Tax Rules

If you win big – especially over $1,200 USD – your winnings may be taxable depending on your nationality and where the ship is registered.

For UK players, cruise ship wins aren’t taxed, but US citizens and residents will likely need to report them to the IRS.

You may be asked to complete forms for larger wins. Check with your cruise line or a tax advisor if you’re unsure – it’s better to be informed than surprised later.

14. Pick the Right Game For You

Despite their size, cruise ship casinos pack in a surprising variety of games: slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and more.

If you’re new to gambling, slots are simple and entertaining. If you’re more strategic, blackjack or poker might suit you better.

Some ships even run tournaments with prizes like free cruises. Think about your skill level and comfort zone – choosing the right game not only improves your odds but also makes the experience far more enjoyable.

While some people love the social aspect of standing around a roulette table, others hate the interaction and feel more comfortable at an electronic roulette machine – I’m the second one!

15. Remember – It’s All About the Fun

Whether you’re spinning reels or sitting at the blackjack table, the casino should be about enjoyment, not stress.

Think of it like a night out – you’re paying for entertainment, and any winnings are a bonus.

Don’t chase losses or gamble with money you can’t afford to lose. Cruise casinos can be exciting and social – win or lose, if you’re having a good time, you’re already ahead.

Final Word

It might look like a long list of things to bear in mind, but don’t let this guide put you off visiting the casino if you want to.

If you want to try the casino as a newbie, then absolutely give it a go – and don’t be afraid to ask the crew if you’re unsure of anything.

But generally, just make sure you understand the rules before you play, and that you’re respectful of others, and you should have a fun time. Don’t get carried away, though!

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Ever heard the phrase, “Don’t ask, don’t get”? As long as you aren’t rude or too demanding, it’s absolutely something you can take advantage of on a cruise.

There are a whole host of freebies, little perks or just useful touches that you can get if you speak to the Guest Services team, and most cruisers don’t know about most of them!

But if you’re fully prepared with this list, you’ll know all the little tricks and bonuses that you can use to just make your cruise that extra bit smoother, or even more special.

1. Sea Sickness Medication

Feeling a bit green around the gills? Guest Services often provides free seasickness tablets. They’re usually basic over-the-counter options, but they can save your cruise if you’re feeling queasy.

If you know that you’re likely to suffer from sickness during the cruise, I wouldn’t rely on the freebies from Guest Services. They aren’t guaranteed, and even if they have them, they could run out.

Whether you’re charged or not really depends as well. Sometimes I’ve been charged, and sometimes not. And that’s all on the same ship!

However if you’re caught off-guard by those sickness feelings, definitely check in with Guest Services before heading to the pharmacy ashore.

Read more: My Top Tips To Prevent Seasickness When Cruising

2. Replacement Cruise Cards

Lost your key card somewhere between the pool and the buffet? No problem. Just pop down to Guest Services, and they’ll print you a fresh one – no charge, no judgment.

There might be a little judgement if it keeps happening though – so you might want to consider some accessories such as a lanyard to help keep your card safe.

I have lost many cruise cards over the years. I just try not to do it more than once per cruise!

3. Daily News Digests

Missing your daily news fix? Some cruise lines offer complimentary news sheets summarising major world events – a great way to stay informed while you’re off the grid.

Not everyone does this and it’s a little more of a traditional thing – modern cruise lines probably want to push you towards buying a WiFi package.

Still, worth asking if you like to stay up to date.

4. Stationery

Planning to leave a little thank-you note for your cabin steward? Need an envelope to store your onboard receipts? Guest Services can sort you out with free pens, paper and envelopes.

Don’t expect reams and reams of the stuff, but you should have no problem getting a little that you need.

5. Maps of the Ship

Getting lost on a massive floating city is easy, especially on your first few days. Grab a free paper map from Guest Services, and you’ll be navigating like a pro in no time.

Again, though, many cruise lines are moving away from printed materials, and so you might be directed to download the cruise line’s app instead which may give you access to maps.

6. Phone Chargers

Forgot your phone charger at home? Or is your charging cable doing that annoying thing where it’s only working when your phone is balanced at an impossible angle?

Don’t panic. Some ships have spare phone chargers you can borrow from Guest Services.

You won’t be surprised to learn that charging cables are one of the more forgotten items onboard, so it’s easy for cruise lines to build up a stockpile.

Just remember to return it once you get your own. It’s not fair to keep it, and you’re helping the next person who forgets theirs.

7. Plug Adaptors

I recently took a cruise on National Geograhic Endurance – a small ship with only 71 cabins. As it was a press trip, all of the guests were UK journalists and travel agents.

The ship had no UK sockets at all, but luckily they had a stock of 30 international adaptors to lend out. That wasn’t enough though, the stockpile quickly ran out as over half the guests forgot to bring any sort of adaptor with them!

So if you forget your adaptors, don’t worry. Most ships have a mix of US, European and British sockets, as well as USB and USBC ports on the more modern ships. But if that’s not enough, just head to guest services and they will lend you one.

7. Help Setting Up Internet

Struggling to get your device connected to the ship’s WiFi? While there’s usually a dedicated internet desk, Guest Services can often help troubleshoot basic connection issues.

The apps are pretty straightforward and I’ve never found it to be too confusing. Still, good to know that the service is there if you need it.

Read more: Cruise Ship WiFi is Expensive: How to Stay Connected for Less

8. Earplugs

Whether it’s your noisy neighbours or the hum of the ship itself, sometimes you just need a bit of quiet.

Some ships even offer free earplugs at Guest Services – just ask. Worst thing is they’ll say no and direct you to the onboard shop to buy your own.

However if the noise is excessive and unreasonable, they’re going to want to help you to avoid a complaint.

Read more: 16 Things Pro Cruisers Pack That You Won’t Have Thought Of

9. Extra Towels, Pillows, or Blankets

Need an extra pillow or a couple of extra towels?

While your cabin steward is usually the go-to, Guest Services can also arrange for extra blankets, towels, or pillows if you’re feeling chilly or just want to be extra cosy.

This is extra helpful on larger ships where you may barely even see your cabin steward, so Guest Services could become your main point of contact for these requests.

10. Special Occasion Decorations

Got a birthday or anniversary? Let Guest Services know, and you might score a free card, a small gift, or even a surprise decoration in your cabin.

I would say this is less likely than many others on this list though, as most of the major cruise lines now offer celebration packages that you can buy.

This are often quite expensive – but Guest Services will still want to push you towards buying one rather than giving you something for free.

11. Mailing Postcards

Want to send a postcard straight from the ship? Drop it off at Guest Services, and they’ll make sure it’s sent out for you. Handy!

You will need to make sure it already as a stamp, though. They’re helpful but they aren’t going to pay for things they don’t need to.

12. Borrowing a Fan

Some cabins can get a bit warm, and if you’re someone who needs a bit of airflow to sleep, you can sometimes borrow a fan from Guest Services – if they have them available.

I’d ask quickly because if they do have them, they won’t have many. First come, first served.

13. Emergency Laundry Help

Got a serious stain or a wardrobe malfunction just before formal night? Guest Services can sometimes help with emergency laundry or even basic repairs (like giving you a safety pin).

Don’t turn up at the desk with a bag of laundry though. That’s what the onboard laundry services are for. This is purely for emergencies.

Read more: How To Do Laundry on Cruise Ships: The Ultimate Guide

14. Luggage Repairs

Busted zipper? Broken wheel? Believe it or not, some ships can even help you get your luggage repaired, thanks to their onboard maintenance teams.

You’ll need to drop it off and wait because you won’t be their top priority – they’ll be fixing ship-wide issues first. However, a free fix that takes a couple of days is better than no fix at all.

15. Hypoallergenic Pillows

If you’ve got allergies, you don’t have to suffer.

Guest Services can help you swap out your pillow for a hypoallergenic option – just ask.

Some suites on cruise ships come with full pillow menus to choose from, but if you’ve an allergy then you should be able to get swapped regardless of your cabin choice.

16. Printing Important Documents

Need to print out an excursion ticket, a boarding pass, or some other important document? Guest Services can often print a few pages for you, no charge.

As with everything on this list, don’t push your luck. A few pages is fine – an essay, probably not.

17. A Bible

You’ll find a Bible in the drawer of the bedside table in most hotels, but the same can’t be said for cruise ships.

Cruise ships are often cautious about anything that could be interpreted as controversial or sensitive, especially since they dock in various countries with different laws and cultures.

However, if you want to read the Bible and haven’t brought your own, just head to guest services. Even if the ship doesn’t have a library, they should have a spare copy of the Bible that they can lend you.

18. Sports Equipment

Most cruise ships have facilities like sports courts for basketball, football, tennis or pickleball. But what if you get there and there’s no equipment?

That’s actually pretty common, and all you have to do is go to guest services and ask.

While there will be organised sports at certain times, the rest of the time you’re free to start your own games. Just ask at the guest services desk and they will give all the balls or bats you need.

18. A Dramatic Show!

A bit of a cheeky one to end on, but if you’re the kind of person who likes to people watch, and you find entitled cruisers to be entertaining, then the Guest Services desk is a great spot to catch some drama!

I don’t see entitled people on every cruise, but I’ve definitely seen a few people get demand-y and shouty before, and it’s quite embarrassing for them.

I would obviously rather that the Guest Services team didn’t have to handle those people, but they’re very good at taking it in their stride.

So yes, if you like a bit of gossip and find rude people getting flustered to be a bit entertaining, grab a drink and a seat near Guest Services. It won’t be long before you’re front row to some drama.

Read more: Overheard: The Worst Complaints At Guest Services On A Cruise

Final Thoughts

Guest Services is more than just the place to complain about your noisy neighbour or check your bill.

It’s a treasure trove of useful (and free) goodies that can make your cruise even better. Don’t be afraid to swing by and ask – you never know what you might get for free.

The golden rule though is to not expect anything. These are all freebies you might be able to get.

The worst cruisers are those who think they are entitled to a load of extras, and then demand them.

Don’t be one of those.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

The biggest mistakes that cruisers make (and not just the newbies) are often related to tipping. It’s an absolute minefield!

Get tipping wrong, and you could find yourself embarrassed, overcharged or unintentionally rude to someone. None of those are ideal when you’re trying to enjoy your cruise!

And yet some of these errors are surprisingly common…

1. Assuming Gratuities Are Included

One of the biggest mistakes new cruisers make is assuming that gratuities are already included in the fare.

In reality, most mainstream cruise lines add gratuities as an additional fee, which means they’re tacked onto your bill at the end of your trip. You can pre-pay them when you book, but if you don’t, they’ll be added to your onboard account along with your onboard purchases.

Even after paying your automatic gratuities, many cruisers (particularly those from the United States) like to tip extra in cash. This may be $5 to the porter who handles your bags at the cruise terminal, $5 to the person who delivers your room service, or even $100 to the person who has cleaned your room all week.

To facilitate this, some cruise lines like Disney will leave you envelopes to add cash to and tip particular crew members extra on top of the auto gratuities.

Not every cruise line charges gratuities separately though.

Cruise lines that include gratuities in the fare that you pay include:

• P&O Cruises
• Marella Cruises
• Virgin Voyages
• Seabourn
• Silversea
• Scenic Ocean Cruises
• Emerald Cruises
• Azamara
• MSC Cruises (on European sailings)

And then there are the cruise lines which include gratuities if you pay a certain fare, such as Princess Cruises with the Plus or Premier fares.

Sometimes, people ask me if gratuities are mandatory or if they can remove them. While technically you can remove gratuities, I defintley wouldn’t recommend that. You can read more about that later in this article, or here: Can You Refuse To Pay Gratuities On A Cruise?

2. Only Bringing Large Bills

While you won’t need cash for most onboard expenses, you will need small bills if you wish to tipping people. They also come in handy if you want to buy small items ashore.

Bringing nothing but $50 notes might leave you in an awkward spot when you want to show your appreciation without handing over a fortune.

Imagine trying to tip a bartender with a crisp £50 – you might get great service all cruise, but your wallet won’t thank you!

Make sure you head to the bank or bureau de change before you head for the port, and grab yourself some smaller bills.

3. Forgetting to Tip the Porter at Embarkation

Porters work hard lugging your suitcases on board, often in all kinds of weather. A small tip – think $1-2 per bag – is a simple way to show your appreciation.

This isn’t the norm in the UK or Europe, as port workers receive a decent wage. But if your cruise departs from the United States, you can expect that porters rely on tips to survive.

When I got on a transatlantic cruise in Southampton, I noticed that all of the Americans were tipping the porters, while the British people weren’t. I bet the British porters love it when they load up the ships full of Americans!

Forgetting tips can leave you feeling like a bit of a scrooge before you’ve even stepped onboard. Yes, your bags will likely make it to your cabin either way, but a little kindness goes a long way.

4. Removing Automatic Gratuities Without Good Reason

Sure, you can ask Guest Services to remove the automatic gratuities from your account, but this is strongly discouraged.

Those tips go towards the hardworking crew members who make your cruise experience enjoyable.

If you’ve had an issue with service, it’s always better to speak with a manager first – cancelling gratuities because your drink took an extra minute is a bit like burning down the house because you found a spider.

And it is hugely unfair on a lot of the behind-the-scenes crew who also rely on those tips.

Read more: Can You Refuse To Pay Gratuities On A Cruise?

5. Tipping in the Wrong Currency

If you’re cruising in Europe, tipping your tour guide in US dollars isn’t particularly helpful – although some many not mind, as long as it’s paper money, not coins.

Still, it’s always best to check the local currency for your destinations and have some on hand.

Most Caribbean destinations are happy with US dollars, but this isn’t true everywhere.

In some countries like Turkey, which use the Turkish Lira, most of the shops and taxis will accept Euros. However, they’ll give you a really poor exchange rate, so it’s not advised to do this.

6. Skipping Tips for Shore Excursion Guides

Even if your shore excursion is booked through the cruise line, it’s customary to tip your guide separately if they’ve provided an excellent experience.

These guides often work hard to give you a memorable day – a little recognition goes a long way.

Think of them as your adventure sidekicks – and every great sidekick deserves a thank you.

I often like to take ‘free’ walking tours in cities. While these are advertised as being free, they’re not, as you’re expected to pay what you feel the tour is worth at the end. The guides have to pay a fee to the company, usually around $5 per person. Anything after that is theirs to keep. So if you only pay $5, they’re effectively working for free, which isn’t fair.

7. Saving All Your Tips for the Last Day

It’s a classic mistake – waiting until the last day to hand out tips.

Not only does this make it feel like a financial punch all at once, but you also miss the chance to show appreciation to a standout bartender or cabin steward throughout your cruise.

Plus, a little generosity early on can sometimes make for even better service.

You’re missing out if you wait – maybe spreading out the tipping love could just swing you a little special treatment during the cruise (though don’t expect it!)

8. Over-Tipping Because You’re Unaware of Service Charges

Some onboard purchases, like spa treatments or drinks, already include a service charge.

Tipping extra on top of this is unnecessary unless you’ve received exceptional service. And yet some people do, because it can be a little bit confusing.

So it’s worth checking the costs whenever you pay for something on the ship – do your research before you sail on whether your drinks include the tip already. If you’re already paying 18% on top of the menu price for each drink, you may feel that’s more than enough.

Again, there’s no harm in tipping extra if you want to – and the occasional small tip with a bartender could help you get served even quicker the next time you visit.

Just make sure you aren’t overpaying unnecessarily.

9. Assuming Prepaid Gratuities Mean You Don’t Have to Tip Extra

Prepaying your gratuities means you’ve covered the basics – but it doesn’t mean you can’t show a little extra appreciation to crew members who go above and beyond.

A small personal tip to your cabin steward or favourite bartender can make a big difference. And what might not seem like much to you, could be what makes their day.

Bring a little extra with you if you can, and reward the good service you get. Trust me, they’ll know whether you’ve already prepaid too, so your extra tips will be appreciated even more.

Read more: Should You Prepay Gratuities On A Cruise? Pros & Cons

10. Feeling Obligated to Tip Room Service

Room service on many cruise lines already has a service charge included, so you’re not required to leave an extra tip. It can feel awkward, since you would always expect to tip a delivery, but it might be something you’ve already paid.

Of course, if you receive exceptional service – like a quick late-night delivery – a couple of pounds or dollars as a thank you won’t go amiss.

After all, there’s something magical about a late night snack in bed on a cruise. And if they’ve gone out of their way to make it happen for you, it might be nice to say a special thanks.

11. Forgetting About Your Cabin Steward

Your cabin steward is the unsung hero of your cruise, keeping your room clean and tidy (amd potentially handling quite a few extra tasks for you too…)

A small additional tip is always appreciated and can be a great way to thank them for their hard work.

And like I say, maybe don’t wait until the end of your cruise – a bit of a thank-you every now and then can make sure any requests you have take priority.

Trust me, you’ll miss them when you get home and have to make your own bed again.

12. Tipping Everyone for Everything

With so many crew members working hard to make your cruise amazing, it can be easy to feel like you need to tip everyone for everything.

But remember, many services already include a gratuity, and you don’t need to double-tip unless you want to.

Generosity is great, but let’s keep it within budget. You don’t have to drain your bank account just for tipping’s sake.

13. Using Tips To Jump The Queue

Sometimes, when the bars are busy, you may see someone come to the bar and slide a dollar bill onto the table, in the hope of getting served first.

While that may work, it’s very annoying to everyone else who has been waiting patiently in line. It can feel as though you’re paying to jump the queue.

There’s nothing wrong with the tradition of tipping in cash for each drink. But if you do it, perhaps wait until after you’ve been served? Or if you do get served first, perhaps thank to your previous cash tips, then the polite thing to do would be to point the bartender towards the person you know has been waiting longer than you.

Final Thoughts

Cruise tipping doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy your holiday without awkward moments or unexpected charges.

After all, cruising should be all about relaxing, not worrying about who you’ve forgotten to tip.

To make it easy on yourself, just double-check a few things before you go – are gratuities already covered, do your onboard purchases have an automatic service charge, and pack some smaller banknotes.

You can then tip as you want to, without feeling pressured to go over the top.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me