How much does an all-inclusive cruise cost?

Ingrid van de Loo · 21 Jul 2026

An all-inclusive cruise costs an average of $100 to $400 per person per night, depending on the ship, destination, and package included. Budget cruise lines start at around $80 per night, while luxury cruise ships can quickly reach $300 or more per night. Exactly what falls under “all-inclusive” varies greatly by provider and has a significant impact on the final price of your cruise vacation.

In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about all-inclusive cruises: what’s included, what extra costs you can still expect, and when this type of cruise is truly worth it.

What exactly is included in an all-inclusive cruise?

On an all-inclusive cruise, the cabin, meals at the main restaurants, non-alcoholic beverages, and entertainment are typically included in the base price. What else is covered varies by cruise line and package. It’s important to read the fine print carefully before booking.

A standard all-inclusive cruise generally includes the following:

Accommodation in a shared or private cabin
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the main restaurant
Non-alcoholic beverages such as water, coffee, and soft drinks
Daily onboard entertainment (shows, music, activities)
Use of the pool and fitness center

What is not typically included are alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, specialty restaurants, gratuities, and spa treatments. Some providers offer more comprehensive packages that include alcohol, excursions, or even flights, but these are reflected in the price.

How much does an all-inclusive cruise cost on average per person?

The average price for an all-inclusive cruise ranges from $100 to $400 per person per night. For a seven-night cruise, that quickly adds up to between $700 and $2,800 per person, excluding flights and additional costs. The final price depends heavily on the destination, the season, and the type of ship.

A rough breakdown by price range:

Budget cruises: $80 to $150 per person per night. Large ships carrying thousands of passengers, standard amenities, and a limited all-inclusive package.
Mid-range: $150 to $300 per person per night. More comfort, better service, and often a more comprehensive all-inclusive package including beverages.
Luxury cruises: $300 to $600 per person per night. Smaller ships, high service standards, personal attention, and virtually everything included.

Popular destinations such as the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Norway command higher prices during peak season. Booking outside of peak periods can sometimes result in significant savings on your cruise vacation.

What are the hidden costs of an all-inclusive cruise?

Despite the name “all-inclusive,” nearly every cruise comes with extra costs not included in the base price. The most common hidden costs are gratuities, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, and specialty restaurants. It’s not uncommon for travelers to end up paying 30 to 50 percent more than the advertised price.

Common additional costs on an all-inclusive cruise:

Gratuities: Major cruise lines often automatically charge $15 to $25 per person per night in service fees.
Alcoholic beverages: Unless you’ve added a drinks package, you pay per glass.
Shore excursions: Excursions are sold separately and can quickly cost $50 to $150 per person per day.
Specialty restaurants: In addition to the main restaurant, large cruise ships often have paid specialty dining venues.
Spa and wellness: Treatments, massages, and sauna access are rarely included.
Wi-Fi: Internet access onboard is charged separately by most providers.

It’s wise to set a realistic budget in advance and find out which costs come on top of the base price. That way, you avoid any unpleasant surprises at the end of your cruise vacation.

What is the difference between an all-inclusive cruise and a luxury sailing cruise?

The biggest difference lies in the atmosphere, scale, and overall experience. An all-inclusive cruise on a large ship offers volume and convenience: thousands of fellow passengers, an extensive entertainment program, and fixed ports with excursions. A luxury sailing cruise is the opposite: intimate, authentic, and focused on a genuine connection with the sea and the destination.

While large cruise ships can carry up to 5,000 passengers, a luxury sailing cruise sets sail with a small group. The experience is fundamentally different as a result:

Scale: Dozens of guests versus thousands of passengers.
Service: Personal attention from the crew versus anonymous service in large restaurants.
Destinations: Secluded bays and small islands out of reach for large ships, versus busy tourist ports.
Experience: A genuine sailing adventure with authentic maneuvers versus a floating hotel with an ocean view.
Price: Luxury sailing cruises start at a higher price point, but typically include a fully catered stay with no hidden costs.

For travelers who have grown tired of the anonymity of large cruise ships, a sailing cruise offers a fundamentally different experience: small-scale, adventurous, and with a high level of service that feels like a boutique hotel at sea.

When is an all-inclusive cruise worth it?

An all-inclusive cruise is worth it if you’re looking for a hassle-free vacation where you don’t have to arrange much yourself and want to visit multiple destinations in a single trip. It’s a great choice for travelers who enjoy onboard entertainment, a wide variety of activities, and the convenience of one all-in price. However, for those seeking peace, adventure, and authenticity, an all-inclusive cruise may fall short of expectations.

An all-inclusive cruise is less suitable if you:

Want to avoid crowds and mass tourism
Are looking for a personal and intimate travel experience
Value a genuine connection with nature and the sea
Prefer visiting remote, undiscovered places over busy tourist ports

Those who want to invest in a cruise vacation that truly stays with them would do well to look beyond the standard offerings.

How Clipper Stad Amsterdam offers a different kind of cruise

Clipper Stad Amsterdam offers an alternative for travelers who want more than a standard all-inclusive cruise. Aboard our iconic three-masted clipper ship, we combine the adventure of authentic sailing with the high level of service you’d expect from a boutique hotel.

What sets our luxury sailing cruise apart:

A maximum of 28 guests onboard, across 14 cabins — intimate and personal
Fully catered stay including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails prepared by our chefs
Sailing by day, anchoring in a secluded bay by evening — no busy cruise ports
Activities such as snorkeling, day trips, and relaxing on white-sand beaches in the Caribbean
A young, dedicated crew ready to attend to your every need
No hidden costs: our hospitality team is at your service throughout your entire stay

Our cruises start from €5,300 per person and are designed for travelers who choose quality over quantity. Want to learn more or ready to book? View our available voyages or contact us for personalized advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book an all-inclusive cruise to get the best price?

For the lowest price, it's best to book an all-inclusive cruise 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for popular destinations like the Caribbean or the Mediterranean during peak season. Cruise lines offer early-bird discounts that can reach 20 to 30 percent. Flexible travelers can also take advantage of last-minute deals, but you'll have fewer choices when it comes to cabin type and travel dates.

Is it worth adding a drinks package to an all-inclusive cruise?

It depends on your drinking habits. A drinks package costs an average of $50 to $100 per person per day and only pays off if you regularly consume multiple alcoholic beverages throughout the day. Always read the terms carefully: some packages only include house wines and standard drinks, while premium brands and cocktails cost extra. Calculate in advance how much you typically spend on drinks and compare that to the package price.

What are the biggest mistakes people make when booking an all-inclusive cruise?

The most common mistake is failing to factor in additional costs such as gratuities, excursions, and Wi-Fi into the total budget, causing the vacation to end up far more expensive than expected. Another frequent mistake is not spending enough time researching exactly what is included in each package — the term 'all-inclusive' is not legally defined and varies significantly between providers. Always compare multiple providers based on the total price, including all mandatory surcharges.

Is an all-inclusive cruise suitable for people who get seasick?

Large cruise ships are generally well stabilized and sail on calm, predetermined routes, which limits the likelihood of heavy movement. That said, seasickness can be minimized by choosing a cabin in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck, where motion is felt the least. If you're prone to motion sickness, consult your doctor in advance about preventive options, and keep in mind that smaller vessels — such as a sailing ship — are more sensitive to wave action.

What is the difference in total price between an all-inclusive cruise and a fully catered sailing cruise?

At first glance, an all-inclusive cruise may seem cheaper, but once you add up all the additional costs such as gratuities, drinks, excursions, and Wi-Fi, the price gap quickly narrows. A fully catered luxury sailing cruise like the one offered by Clipper Stad Amsterdam starts at a higher price point, but typically includes all meals, drinks, and activities with no hidden costs. For travelers who value transparency and a truly inclusive experience, the total price is often comparable — or even more favorable.

How do I choose the right cruise line for my budget and preferences?

Start by identifying your priorities: is it price, destinations, level of service, or ship size that matters most? Then compare providers based on what is actually included in the package, not just the advertised price. Read independent reviews on platforms such as Cruiseline.com or Trustpilot, paying close attention to comments about hidden costs, service quality, and the real onboard experience.

Who is a luxury sailing cruise like Clipper Stad Amsterdam's best suited for?

A luxury sailing cruise is ideally suited for travelers who consciously choose a small-scale, authentic experience and have grown weary of the mass-tourism atmosphere of large cruise ships. It's an excellent choice for couples, friends, or small groups looking for personal attention, extraordinary destinations, and an adventurous yet comfortable vacation. Those who value tranquility, nature, and a genuine connection with the sea will feel right at home aboard a sailing vessel like the Stad Amsterdam.