how much to spend on a cruise??

[MelindaKiah]

We are very seriously considering taking a cruise for our anniversary next October. We've found a Royal Caribbean cruise for less than $300 Canadian each, and can get airfare for about $400 Canadian return. I've wanted to take a cruise since we got married 17 years ago. I'm just clueless about how much spending money we'd need, etc.

Any input?

Thanks.

 

[maryliz]

Sorry, can't help you because we've never been on one. But it sounds wonderful! Have a great time.

Mary-Liz

 

[lmk]

Hi Melindakiah! Lucky you - that is a terrific bargain - how long is the cruise?? If that's 7 days that's one of the most amazing deals I've seen. Anyhow, to answer your question, I've never cruised RCL but they're pretty similar to the lines I've been on. As far as spending money, there are only a fewthings you need to pay for: alcohol and soft drinks(usually), shore excursions - these can really add up - if you're planning on doing a lot of this, count on at least $100-$200 per shore excursion for 2 people. You might be able to look up excursions and prices on line by going to RCL's web site. The only other thing you need money for are tips. They are pretty much expected on cruises - you are expected to tip your waiter/assistant, housekeeping etc etc - I'd put away a few hundred for that - they will give you recommended tip amounts. There are other incidentals that you may or may not be interested in like family photos, souvenirs etc. If I were you I would count on spending at least $1000 total on top of what you've paid - of course this could vary depending on how much/little you plan to drink/explore etc. Have a great time!! p.s. There are some great cruise discussion boards out there where they will answer any other questions you may have. I think one is www.cruisecritics.com or something like that.

 

[MelindaKiah]

thanks for your input!!! I really appreciate it. It's only a 4 day cruise, but I'm still very happy with the price.

I guess we'd also need a hotel for the day we arrive before the cruise, the day we'd stay overnight when we come back, and transportation to and from the airport.

Thanks again!!!

 

[Limmer]

We cruised for our honeymoon and we spent approx $900 USD for a 7 day (not including tips). This purchased us wine at dinner, drinks ($4-6 each depending on kind), facial, massage and couples treatment at the spa, souvenirs (sweatshirt, beach towel, picture frame), one special dinner, a wine tasting and a few photos. The spa was the most expensive at about $200-$220 but worth it in my opinion.

We did not do any excursions but we definitely would take a snorkeling excursion next time. We saw very little wandering around on our own but then we were VERY inexperienced travelers. It would also depend on your ports of call. When we were looking at different cruises our TA told us which ports we were free to explore on our own and which ones she strongly recommended excursions. Where is the ship stopping?