Are cruises all-inclusive? And other commonly asked questions about cruising, answered!
When it comes to cruising, especially as a first-timer you may have a lot of questions. We get it! That’s why we’re here to answer five of the most common questions people ask when planning a cruise.
So, let’s get your questions answered to help you decide if cruising is right for you!
Are cruises all-inclusive?
Short answer is no.
What’s included on a cruise?
Accommodations
Onboard Entertainment
Meals in the main dining areas
Pools & fitness areas
What’s not included on a cruise?
Sodas & Alcoholic drinks
Speciality dining
Shore excursions
Gratitudies
WiFi
Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Lines, Viking River Cruises and others have pre-paid packages that you can purchase ahead of time to help you stay on budget, so that it feels like an all-inclusive vacation.
Pro Tip: Always check the fine print of your packages to know exactly what is included. We will always compare packages to help you get the most for your money. ☺️
What kinds of cruises are there?
Just like choosing a resort, cruises offer a variety of options for every type of traveler whether you’re looking for a family-friendly escape or want to sail down the Rhine for your anniversary, there’s something for everyone!
👨👩👧👧 Family Cruises
With kid-friendly activities, water slides, and plenty of entertainment, these cruises cater to families and groups of all sizes.
Some of our favorites: Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.
💎 Luxury Cruises
Perfect if you're looking for a more intimate and upscale experience, fine dining, and personal service.
Top picks: Regent Seven Sea Cruises, Oceania and Silversea
🗺 Adventure Cruises
Want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations? Consider cruises to Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, or Alaska.
We love: Lindblad Expeditions and Celebrity Cruises
🕍 River Cruises
Ready to do some sightseeing and have a more intimate cruise experience? River cruises take you through cities and countryside along the world’s great rivers, like the Danube, Rhine, or Nile.
We suggest: AmaWaterways
Inside, Outside, Balcony and Suites: What’s the difference and how to choose the best cruise cabin for you!
This is the biggest decision when it comes to booking a cruise because you’ll want accommodations that you can enjoy and have enough space for you and your traveling partners.
Here are the different types of cabins:
Interior: The most affordable option. These rooms don’t have windows, but they’re perfect if you’re on a budget and plan to spend most of your time enjoying the ship’s amenities.
Oceanview: Not a fan of not being able to see outside but don’t quite have the budget for a balcony? Oceanview rooms are a great option because they offer a porthole or window so that you can wake up with a view.
Balcony: For a more spacious and elevated experience, go for a balcony room! Imagine sipping your mimosas with the ocean breeze – pure bliss.
Suites: Want to cruise in luxury? Suites offer more space, premium amenities, and exclusive perks like priority boarding and access to private lounges.
If you're celebrating something special (or just want to treat yourself), springing for a balcony or suite can turn your cruise into a truly memorable experience. But for budget-conscious travelers, interior cabins still offer all the essentials for a fantastic vacation.
Our agents can walk you through ideal placement on the cruise ship!
Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?
It depends on your itinerary. For U.S. citizens, if your cruise departs from and returns to the same U.S. port (this is called a "closed-loop" cruise), a passport isn’t always required. You can often travel with just a government-issued ID and a birth certificate.
However, having a passport is always a good idea. It gives you more flexibility, especially if an emergency arises or if you decide to spend extra time in a port before or after the cruise.
If your cruise departs from a foreign country or travels to destinations like Europe, South America, or beyond, a valid passport will definitely be required. It's always smart to check the documentation requirements for your specific cruise itinerary to avoid any last-minute headaches.
Ready to sail away?
We hope this answers some of your cruise questions! Whether you're planning your first cruise or looking to try a new destination, we're here to help.
At TH Travel Designs, we specialize in curating the perfect cruise experiences for every type of traveler. From picking the best cabin to ensuring you have all the details covered, our team is ready to make your cruise vacation stress-free and unforgettable.
Need help planning your next cruise adventure?
Contact us today to get started!
