How to Budget for a European Cruise
The Lucy Team
We're the team behind Ask Lucy — travellers, food lovers, and language enthusiasts building an AI companion that helps you explore the world with confidence.
The True Cost of a European Cruise
The advertised cruise fare covers your cabin, main dining room meals, basic entertainment, and transportation between ports. But experienced cruisers know the total cost is typically 50-100% higher once you add extras.
Budget Categories Beyond the Fare
Drink packages: 60-100 USD per person per day for unlimited alcohol. Non-alcoholic packages are 20-30 USD per day.
Specialty dining: 30-75 USD per person per restaurant. Most ships have 3-8 specialty restaurants.
Shore excursions: 50-200 USD per person per port through the ship. Significantly less if you go independent.
Gratuities: 15-20 USD per person per day, automatically charged on most lines.
Wi-Fi: 10-20 USD per day per device.
Port spending: Food, drinks, shopping, and transportation at port. Budget 50-100 USD per port day.
Money-Saving Strategies
Eat at the included main dining room and buffet instead of specialty restaurants. Explore ports independently instead of booking ship excursions. Use Lucy to find affordable local restaurants instead of tourist traps near the port. Drink at port where alcohol is far cheaper than onboard.