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Top 10 Questions from new or novice cruisers

This information is accurate for 2025 and intended for estimation purposes only. Prices and policies can change, so be sure to check the cruise line’s official website or talk to a representative for the most current details before you book your cruise.

Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions (Q&A) from new or novice cruisers:

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises Contact Info:

Princess offers live chat and customer support from Monday to Friday (9 AM – 12 AM ET) and weekends (10 AM – 9 PM ET).

1. What is included in the base fare of a Princess cruise?

The base fare covers your stateroom, standard dining (buffet, main dining room), entertainment (shows, live music), basic activities, and access to most onboard amenities like the pool and fitness center. For budgeting, a 7-day cruise in 2025 starts at around $900 per person for interior rooms. Balcony rooms are typically $1,500 and up, depending on the season and destination.

2, What is Princess Plus and Princess Premier?
  • Princess Plus: Includes unlimited Wi-Fi, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and crew appreciation. This package costs $60 per person per day but can save up to 65% compared to purchasing these amenities separately.
  • Princess Premier: Adds specialty dining, premium desserts, fitness classes, and more. It is priced at $80 per person per day and offers significant value if you plan to enjoy a variety of onboard services.
3. What are the dining options onboard?

Princess Cruise Lines features multiple dining venues:

  • Included Options: Main dining room, buffet, and select casual eateries.
  • Specialty Dining: Options like Crown Grill (steakhouse) and Sabatini’s (Italian). Specialty dining incurs additional costs of $30-$60 per person for an elevated dining experience.
4. What types of staterooms are available?

Princess Cruises offers a variety of staterooms:

  • Interior Staterooms: Starting at around $900 for a 7-day cruise.
  • Balcony Staterooms: From $1,500 to $2,500 depending on location and amenities.
  • Mini-Suites and Suites: These start at $2,500 and can go up to $6,000+ for larger suites with additional perks.
5. What is Princess MedallionClass?

The MedallionClass experience includes a wearable device (the Medallion) that enhances your cruise experience with features like keyless room entry, personalized dining, and on-demand service. This feature is included in your fare and enhances both convenience and safety onboard.

6. What kind of entertainment is offered on Princess Cruises?

You can enjoy Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy performances, movies under the stars, and more—all included in your fare. However, some exclusive activities, like cooking classes, wine tastings, and escape rooms, may cost an additional $20-$50 per person.

7. Are there fitness and wellness options onboard?

Yes, Princess Cruises offers well-equipped gyms, group fitness classes, and a luxury spa:

  • Fitness Classes: Yoga and Pilates sessions are available and may cost $15-$20 per class.
  • Spa Services: Treatments like massages range from $100 to $300, depending on the service and duration.
 8. Is Wi-Fi included on Princess Cruises?

Wi-Fi is included with the Princess Plus and Premier packages. If not part of a package, standalone Wi-Fi costs around $15-$20 per day per device.

 9. What onboard activities are available for families and kids?

Princess Cruises offers programs for kids and teens, including youth clubs, video games, sports courts, and educational workshops. Many activities are included in the fare, but some premium activities like video game tournaments or special workshops may have a fee ($10-$30).

 10. What are the gratuity and service charges?

Princess charges daily gratuities referred to as “Crew Appreciation”:

  • Standard Staterooms (Interior, Oceanview, Balcony): $16 per person per day.
  • Mini-Suite and Club Class: $17 per person, per day.
  • Suites: $18 per person per day.

You can prepay gratuities when booking your cruise or have them automatically charged to your account during your trip. Prepaying helps manage your budget and makes checkout easier at the end.

Can You Adjust or Remove Gratuities?

Yes, if you’re unsatisfied with the service, you can request an adjustment at the Guest Services desk onboard. However, most guests leave the standard amounts as they cover a wide range of crew members who work behind the scenes.

Additional Tips:

  • Specialty Dining: A 18% gratuity is automatically added to any specialty dining purchases.
  • Beverage Packages: Gratuities (typically 18-20%) are already included when purchasing a drinks package like the Princess Plus or Princess Premier plan.

Pro Tip: Recognizing outstanding service with a personal tip is always a gracious gesture. Exceptional crew members truly appreciate the recognition and gratitude.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Contact Information:

  • Phone: 1-866-234-7350 (US & Canada)
  • Website: www.ncl.com
 1. What’s included in my Norwegian Cruise fare?

Your base fare typically includes accommodation, standard dining options (buffets and main dining rooms), and select onboard entertainment. However, specialty dining, shore excursions, WiFi, and premium beverages come at an extra charge. Packages like “More at Sea” may include perks such as free WiFi, specialty dining credits, and drinks packages. Current fares for 2025 range from $600 to $1,800 per person for a 7-day cruise, depending on the cabin type and season.

 2. What is the “More at Sea” Package?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has replaced its popular “Free at Sea” program with a new offering called “More at Sea,” effective for sailings starting in 2025. This updated package aims to provide a broader range of perks and is designed for more flexibility and enhanced experiences. Here’s what the “More at Sea” package includes.

Key Benefits of the “More at Sea” Package

  • Enhanced Beverage Options: An upgraded drink selection includes a variety of premium spirits, beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages like sodas and juices. It covers most drinks up to $20 each. The package must be booked at least 24 hours before departure, and guests under 21 will receive a soda package instead.
    •  Estimated Cost: The drink package alone can add about $99 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity fee.
  • Increased Specialty Dining: More at Sea includes additional specialty dining nights, offering up to three meals for guests in balcony cabins and higher. The dining package covers options like steakhouses, seafood restaurants, and French cuisine.
    • High-End Dining Charge: While the package includes set meals, any extra items or upscale experiences can cost between $25-$100 per person.
  • Wi-Fi Upgrade: Faster internet service powered by Starlink is now part of the package, with 150 minutes of free Wi-Fi for each guest in the stateroom. This is an improvement from the previous offering, which only allowed limited minutes for the first two guests.
    •  Additional Wi-Fi Packages: Upgrades for unlimited high-speed internet range from $30 to $50 per day per device.
  • Shore Excursion Credit: Guests still receive a $50 credit per excursion per stateroom, similar to the Free at Sea program. This can be applied to various tours and activities during port visits.
  • Free Airfare and Third/Fourth Guests Sail Free: Select sailings include free airfare for a second guest and complimentary fares for third and fourth guests, making it an appealing choice for families and groups.

Additional Costs to Keep in Mind:

  • Some specialty dining experiences, high-end cocktails, and exclusive entertainment options are not included in the package and may incur extra charges.
  • Activities like private cabana rentals or behind-the-scenes tours can range from $50-$150 per person.

Overall Value

The “More at Sea” package aims to provide a better value with more choices for dining, drinks, and Wi-Fi. It’s best for cruisers who want a more inclusive experience and are willing to pay a little extra for convenience and enhanced services.

 3. What additional costs should I budget for?

Expect to spend extra on the following:

  • Specialty Dining: $50–$70 per meal without a dining package.
  • Gratuities: Around $20 per person, per day.
  • Shore Excursions: $75–$250 per excursion. – Beverages: Premium drink packages cost approximately $109 per day per adult.

These add-ons can easily total $500–$1,000 per person, depending on your preferences.

 4. What are the dining options on NCL, and are they worth it?

NCL offers a mix of complimentary dining and specialty restaurants. While main dining rooms and buffets are included, specialty options like Cagney’s Steakhouse, Teppanyaki, and Onda by Scarpetta are not. Prices range from $59 (Teppanyaki) to $80 (Onda) per person, depending on the restaurant and menu choices. The specialty dining package can help reduce these costs, priced at around $202.80 for four meals per person.

 5. What kind of stateroom should I book

Options range from interior (no window) to oceanview, balcony, and suite staterooms.

  • Interior rooms are budget-friendly ($600–$900 per person).
  • Suites and The Haven (NCL’s luxury experience) start around $2,500 per person.
  • A balcony cabin, often the most popular choice, typically costs between $1,200 and $1,800 per person.
6. What entertainment is included, and are there extra charges?

Broadway-style shows, comedy performances, live music, and themed parties are included. However, activities like escape rooms, go-kart racing, laser tag, and certain immersive shows (e.g., dinner theater experiences) are not included. These may cost $10–$15 per activity or up to $100 for premium experiences

7. What’s the drink policy on NCL? Can I bring my own beverages?

NCL allows guests to bring wine onboard, but a corkage fee of $15–$30 per bottle applies. Hard liquor and other beverages are not permitted. Drink packages, like the Premium Plus Beverage Package, are available starting at $109 per person per day, covering most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Pro Tip: Bring your own water bottle (like Yeti, Hydro Flask, or Stanley) and fill it up with water for free at any drink station. It’s a great way to save money!

8. What are the best shore excursions to consider?

Shore excursions can range from simple sightseeing ($75) to more adventurous options like snorkeling or zip-lining ($200–$250). Booking through NCL ensures a seamless experience, but it can be pricier than booking independently.

ShoreExcursions is worth considering as they provide 4,500 of exciting and enriching shore excursions in over 300 ports worldwide! Save as much as 40%!

9. What activities are there for families and kids?

NCL offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including water slides, kids’ clubs, arcades, and movie nights. While many activities are included, specialty experiences like go-karting and laser tag are additional and can cost $10–$15 per session. Kids can also enjoy complimentary access to the Splash Academy (ages 3–12) and Entourage (teens).

10. What should I pack for my cruise?

Pack casual resort wear for day activities, swimwear, and evening attire (smart casual is recommended). Specialty dining venues may have a dress code. Also, include essentials like sunscreen, motion sickness remedies, and comfortable shoes for excursions.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line Contact Information:

1. What are the most affordable Carnival cruises in 2025?

Carnival Cruise Line is known for offering budget-friendly options. In 2025, a 3-4 night cruise to the Bahamas or Mexico can start as low as $250 per person, while a week-long cruise to the Caribbean typically ranges from $600-$1,200 per person, depending on the cabin type and season.

2. What’s included in the Carnival cruise fare?

Carnival’s base fare includes:

  • Accommodation, meals in main dining rooms, buffet, and select casual dining options.
  • Basic drinks: water, tea, coffee, and select juices at breakfast.
  • Onboard activities like live shows, trivia, pool access, and deck parties.

Extra Costs

  • Specialty dining: typically ranges from $15-$50 per person.
  • Alcoholic beverages and soda packages start at $10.95 per day.
  • Shore excursions, spa services, and retail purchases are additional costs.

ShoreExcursions is worth considering as they provide 4,500 of exciting and enriching shore excursions in over 300 ports worldwide! Save as much as 40%!

3. What specialty dining options are available, and how much do they cost?

Carnival offers a variety of specialty dining venues:

  • Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse: ~$48 per person.
  • Chef’s Table (an exclusive multi-course meal experience): ~$95 per person.
  • Bonsai Sushi: à la carte pricing (~$10-$30 per meal).

Most ships also feature Guy’s Burger Joint, a popular casual dining spot included in the fare.

4. Do I need a passport to cruise with Carnival?

If sailing on a “closed-loop” cruise (departing from and returning to the same U.S. port), you typically do not need a passport—just a government-issued photo ID and a birth certificate. However, having a passport is recommended for added convenience, especially if an unexpected emergency requires you to fly home from a foreign port.

5. Is Wi-Fi available on Carnival cruises, and what does it cost?

Yes, Carnival offers Wi-Fi packages:

  • Social Wi-Fi Plan: Starts at $10.20 per day, allowing access to social media apps.
  • Value Plan: ~$14.45 per day, suitable for browsing.
  • Premium Plan: ~$18.70 per day, for streaming and video calls.

These rates can vary, and discounts are often available if purchased in advance.

6. What entertainment options are included, and are there any extra costs?

Included entertainment on Carnival ships features:

  • Live music, comedy shows, and Broadway-style performances.
  • Outdoor activities like water slides, mini-golf, and sports courts.

Extra Costs:

  • Carnival’s IMAX theater (available on select ships): ~$12 per ticket.
  • Escape rooms and virtual reality experiences: typically **$10-$20 per session**.
7. Are there adult-only areas on Carnival ships?

Yes, most Carnival ships offer the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, a peaceful space featuring loungers, whirlpools, and a bar. Access is included in your fare, but it is first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended.

8. How much should I budget for gratuities on Carnival cruises?

Carnival’s recommended gratuities are:

  • Suites: $16 per day per person
  • Other Cabin types: $14.50 per day per person

These tips cover your room steward, dining staff, and other crew services. You can prepay these or have them automatically charged to your onboard account.

Pro Tip: Recognizing outstanding service with a personal tip is always a gracious gesture. Exceptional crew members truly appreciate the recognition and gratitude.

9. What activities are available for kids and families?

Carnival is family-friendly with options like:

  • Camp Ocean (ages 2-11): Free kids’ club with supervised activities.
  • Circle “C” (ages 12-14) and Club O2 (ages 15-17): Teen spaces with games and social activities.

Not all activities are included—arcade games and Build-a-Bear workshops typically cost $10-$25 per session/item.

10. What is Carnival’s dress code

Carnival’s dress code is casual. During the day, guests can wear swimwear, shorts, and t-shirts. In the evening, attire is “cruise casual”—think sundresses, jeans, or slacks. There are also “Elegant Nights” where guests can dress up, but it’s not mandatory.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Contact Information:

1. What Are the Cabin Options on Royal Caribbean and How Much Do They Cost?

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of cabins to suit different needs and budgets:

  • Interior Cabins: Basic, no windows, starting from $600 per person for a 7-night Caribbean cruise.
  • Oceanview Cabins: Include a window, costing around $800 per person.
  • Balcony Cabins: Very popular, providing private outdoor space, starting at $1,200 per person.
  • Suites: Luxurious with exclusive perks, ranging from $2,500 per person and up.
2. Are Meals Included, and What Dining Options Are Available?

Yes, most meals are included in your cruise fare. Dining options include:

  • Main Dining Room: Complimentary multi-course meals.
  • Windjammer Café: Buffet-style with a wide variety of options.
  • Specialty Dining: Restaurants like Chops Grille and Izumi (sushi) have extra costs, ranging from $35 to $75 per person for specialty dining experiences
3. What Beverage Packages Are Available, and Are They Worth It?

Royal Caribbean offers several drink packages:

  • Deluxe Beverage Package (includes alcohol): Starting at $110 per day.
  • Refreshment Package (non-alcoholic): Around $40 per day.
  • Classic Soda Package: Approximately $15 per day.

These packages can save money if you plan to drink several beverages daily. Remember, all adults in the stateroom must purchase the same package if one opts for the Deluxe package.

Pro Tip: Bring your own water bottle (like Yeti, Hydro Flask, or Stanley) and fill it up with water for free at any drink station. It’s a great way to save money!

4. What Entertainment Is Included Onboard?

Most of the entertainment is included in your cruise fare:

  • Broadway-style shows, ice skating performances, and AquaTheater productions.
  • Access to the casino, live music, and themed parties.
  • There may be additional costs for special experiences like Escape Rooms ($25 per person) or the North Star observation pod on Quantum-class ships ($20 to $40 per ride).
5. What Is the Dress Code on Royal Caribbean?

The dress code is generally casual, but there are a few formal nights where guests are encouraged to dress up. Men can wear slacks and a button-up shirt, while women may opt for a sundress or a cocktail dress. If you prefer to avoid formal wear, casual dining options are available.

6. Are Shore Excursions Included, and What Do They Cost?

Shore excursions are not included in the cruise fare. Prices vary depending on the activity:

  • Snorkeling trips: Starting at $70 per person.
  • City tours and sightseeing: Ranging from $50 to $150 per person.
  • Adventure activities like zip-lining or ATV rides may cost $150 to $300 per person.

Booking early through Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner can sometimes save you money.

Booking through the cruise line offers convenience and guarantees you won’t miss the ship. However, independent excursions can be more affordable and personalized. Research both options. ShoreExcursions is worth considering as they provide 4,500 of exciting and enriching shore excursions in over 300 ports worldwide! Save as much as 40%!

7. What Is the Tipping Policy? Are Gratuities Included?

Royal Caribbean adds a daily gratuity:

  • Standard Cabins: $18 per guest per day for standard cabins
  • Suite: $21 per guest per day

This amount covers tips for the dining staff, room attendants, and other service crew. You can prepay these gratuities or have them added to your onboard account.

Pro Tip: Recognizing outstanding service with a personal tip is always a gracious gesture. Exceptional crew members truly appreciate the recognition and gratitude.

8. How Does Internet Access Work, and What Are the Costs?

The ship offers Voom Internet, which is advertised as the fastest internet at sea:

  • Surf & Stream Package: Allows video streaming and costs about $25 per day per device.
  • Basic Surf Package: Ideal for browsing and emails, starting at $18 per day per device
9. What Activities Are Available for Kids and Teens?

Royal Caribbean is known for its family-friendly activities:

  • Adventure Ocean Youth Program: Complimentary for ages 3-17.
  • Teen lounges and clubs: Free access for teenagers with video games, movies, and music.
  • Activities like mini-golf, FlowRider surf simulators, and rock climbing are included, but special attractions like laser tag ($10 per session) may have additional costs.
10. Is Travel Insurance Recommended?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or trip interruptions. Royal Caribbean offers its own plan starting at $79 per person, but many guests opt for third-party insurance that might offer better coverage options.