Are you dreaming of a vacation on the high seas but worried about the cost? Look no further than a budget-friendly cruise. Affordable cruising is an increasingly popular way to travel, offering a variety of amenities at a fraction of the cost of other types of vacations. With all-inclusive rates that cover accommodation, entertainment, and food, it’s no wonder that budget-conscious travellers are turning to ocean liners for their next getaway.

Why are cruise holidays becoming affordable?

After years of being associated with luxury and exclusivity, cruise holidays have become increasingly affordable in the U.K. in 2023. There are several reasons why this has happened.

1. One such reason is the rise in popularity of cruising as a holiday option. With cruising being the fastest-growing segment in the travel industry, cruise lines are now able to offer more affordable rates and a wider variety of cruise options.
2. Additionally, many cruise travel companies have started catering to families, offering amenities like swimming pools, water slides, and rock-climbing walls to keep everyone entertained, making it an ideal holiday option for families. This has also contributed to more affordable rates for families looking to embark on a cruise together.
3. Finally, the ability to visit multiple destinations in a single trip is another factor that has contributed to the affordability of cruising. This has made cruising an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore more while staying within their budget

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the top 10 affordable cruise ship amenities that won’t break the bank, perfect for British travellers who want to experience the joys of cruising without emptying their wallets.

Top 10 Budget-Friendly Cruise Ship Amenities

All-Inclusive Rates

One of the main benefits of all-inclusive rates on a cruise is that they cover a wide range of amenities, including accommodation, food, and entertainment. Many cruise lines offer all meals (including speciality dining venues), beer and wine with lunch and dinner, and non-alcoholic beverages as part of their fares. This means that passengers can enjoy a range of menu options and drinks without having to worry about additional costs.

Compared with land and air travel, there are fewer hidden costs, which means that passengers can have a more relaxed and enjoyable vacation experience without worrying about unexpected expenses.

One great example of a cruise operator that offers all-inclusive rates is Royal Caribbean International. Their all-inclusive packages provide access to all onboard activities, including Broadway-style shows, rock climbing walls, and more.

Another option is the Norwegian Cruise Line, which offers a variety of all-inclusive packages that cover everything from drinks to speciality dining. With all-inclusive rates, travellers can relax and enjoy their cruise without worrying about the cost of each individual amenity.

Speciality Dining Options

When it comes to dining on a cruise ship, there’s usually no shortage of options to choose from. In fact, many cruise operators offer a wide variety of dining venues that cater to different tastes and preferences. One type of dining option that’s often included in the cruise fare is speciality dining. These are restaurants that offer a more elevated dining experience, with a focus on high-quality ingredients, creative dishes, and exceptional service.

Examples of speciality dining options on different cruise operators include:

1. Royal Caribbean’s Chops Grille serves up classic steakhouse fare in a sophisticated setting.
2. Carnival’s Fahrenheit 555 offers a modern take on traditional steakhouse dishes, as well as a variety of seafood options.
3. Norwegian’s Le Bistro specializes in French cuisine and has a romantic atmosphere.
4. Princess Cruises’ Sabatini serves up Italian dishes in a refined setting.

These are just a few examples of the many speciality menu options available on ocean liners. While they may come with an additional fee, they’re often worth the splurge for a special occasion or a memorable night out. However, for those on a budget, don’t worry – many cruise liners also offer plenty of complimentary culinary choices that are just as delicious!

Free Onboard Activities

Cruise ships are known for providing a wide range of onboard activities to keep guests entertained throughout their voyage. The best part is that many of these activities are completely free of charge! From sports and fitness classes to entertainment and educational programs, there’s something for everyone on a cruise ship.

Some of the most popular free activities offered by cruise operators include:

1. Pool and sunbathing: Relax and soak up the sun by the pool, which is usually accompanied by lounge chairs, towels, and drink service.
2. Sports and fitness: Stay active with a variety of free sports and fitness options, such as basketball, volleyball, ping pong, and yoga classes.
3. Entertainment: Enjoy live music, comedy shows, movies, and other performances offered by cruise lines throughout the day and night.
4. Educational programs: Many cruise operators offer enrichment programs that provide guests with opportunities to learn new skills or expand their knowledge on various topics, such as cooking, photography, or history.

These are just a few examples of the many free activities available on ocean liners. Whether you want to relax by the pool or try something new, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Plus, since they’re included in the cruise fare, you can enjoy all of these activities without breaking the bank.

Complimentary Room Service

If you’re looking to save money on dining expenses during your cruise, it’s worth noting that some cruise lines offer complimentary room service as part of their onboard amenities. This can be a great option for budget-conscious travellers who want to enjoy a meal in the comfort of their own cabin without having to pay extra fees.

Examples of cruise liners that offer complimentary room service include:

1. Carnival Cruise Line offers a selection of complimentary items for room service, such as sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a limited complimentary room service menu that includes a selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts.
3. Royal Caribbean (RCI) offers a complimentary continental breakfast and an all-day menu of sandwiches and snacks for room service.

It’s important to note that while many cruise operators offer complimentary room service, there may be limitations on the menu or hours of service. Be sure to check with your specific cruise operator for more information on their room service offerings.

Complimentary room service can be a convenient and cost-effective option for those who want to enjoy a meal in the comfort of their own cabin. By taking advantage of this amenity, you can save money on dining expenses while still enjoying delicious meals onboard your cruise.

Affordable Drink Packages

For those who enjoy a few drinks while on vacation, it’s worth noting that many cruise operators offer affordable drink packages that can help save money on alcoholic beverages. These packages can often be purchased in advance or onboard the ship and can provide significant savings compared to buying individual drinks.

Examples of cruise companies that offer affordable drink packages include:

1. RCI offers a variety of drink packages that can include beer, wine, and cocktails at a discounted rate.
2. Carnival Cruise Line offers a Cheers! beverage program that allows guests to enjoy up to 15 alcoholic beverages per day at a fixed price.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of beverage packages that can include wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks at a discounted rate.

It’s important to note that while these drink packages can offer savings, they may not be the best option for everyone. Before purchasing a drink package, consider your drinking habits and whether the package would provide value for your specific needs.

Overall, affordable drink packages can be a great option for those who want to enjoy alcoholic beverages while on a budget-friendly cruise.

Onboard Shopping Deals

Many cruise liners offer onboard shopping opportunities, including duty-free shopping, where guests can take advantage of tax-free prices on a wide range of items. Additionally, some cruise operators offer deals and discounts on onboard shopping, making it a great opportunity to snag some souvenirs or gifts at a lower cost.

Examples of cruise liners that offer onboard shopping deals include:

1. MSC Cruises offers daily deals on various items in their onboard shops.
2. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of discounts and deals on duty-free items, including jewellery, watches, and liquor.
3. Princess Cruises offers a “Captain’s Circle” loyalty program that provides discounts on onboard shopping.

It’s important to note that while onboard shopping deals can offer savings, it’s still important to be mindful of your budget and avoid overspending. Before making any purchases, consider whether the item is something you truly need or want and whether the price is within your budget.

Onboard shopping deals can be a great way to save money on souvenirs and gifts while on a cruise. By keeping an eye out for deals and discounts, you can make the most of your onboard shopping experience.

Free Childcare Services

Travelling with children can be stressful and expensive, but some cruise lines offer free childcare services, making family vacations more enjoyable and affordable.

Kids’ clubs are a popular feature on many cruise ships, offering supervised activities for children of all ages, from arts and crafts to games and sports. Some cruise liners even offer babysitting services for parents who want to enjoy a night out.

Examples of cruise operators that offer free childcare services include RCI, Carnival Cruise Operator, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Free childcare services on cruise ships can help families save money while ensuring that children have a fun and safe vacation experience.

Port Excursion Packages

Many cruise lines offer affordable excursion packages that provide travellers with the opportunity to explore ports of call at a discounted rate. These packages can be a great way to save money on shore excursions while still experiencing all that a destination has to offer.

Some examples of ocean liners that offer affordable port excursion packages include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Norwegian. These packages often include transportation to and from the port, as well as guided tours of popular attractions or activities such as snorkelling or zip-lining.

By booking a port excursion package, travellers can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having a pre-planned itinerary and the convenience of a hassle-free excursion experience.

Budget-Friendly Internet Packages

Staying connected to the internet is important for many travellers, even while on a cruise. Fortunately, some cruise liners offer budget-friendly internet packages that can help you stay connected without spending a fortune.

These packages typically offer a certain amount of data or minutes for a flat fee and can be a great option for those who only need internet access for basic tasks like checking emails or social media.

Here are examples of major cruise operators and the type of budget-friendly internet packages they offer.

1. Royal Caribbean’s VOOM internet is known for its fast speeds and relatively low cost.
2. Carnival also offers reasonably priced internet packages that allow you to surf the web, check email, and use social media.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line also has a variety of internet packages available, including the Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi Package, which offers web browsing, email service, social media access, and streaming at a reasonable price.

Keep in mind that internet speeds may be slower while at sea and that some activities, such as streaming video, may not be supported. However, if you need to stay connected while on your cruise, a budget-friendly internet package can be a great way to save money on internet access.

Avoiding Extra Costs

Going on a cruise can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s important to keep in mind that there may be extra costs involved. To avoid unnecessary expenses while onboard, one of the best tips is to check the rules and regulations of the cruise operators.

Some cruise liners charge for Wi-Fi or internet access, but others offer budget-friendly internet packages that can save you money. Another tip is to avoid splurging on things that you don’t really need, such as expensive souvenirs or activities that are not included in the base price of the cruise.

Before you go, it’s also helpful to set a budget for yourself and stick to it as closely as possible. That way, you can enjoy all the amenities that the cruise ship has to offer without worrying about overspending.

Frequently Asked Questions – Affordable Cruise Amenities

Final thoughts

With the abundance of budget-friendly options available on ocean liners, it’s possible to save money and still have a wonderful vacation experience. Whether you want to take advantage of discounted excursion packages or budget-friendly internet packages, there are plenty of ways to be smart about your spending while onboard. Remember that the key to saving money on a cruise is being aware of the rules and regulations of the cruise operator, setting a budget for yourself, and avoiding unnecessary expenses. With a little bit of planning, you can have an enjoyable cruise experience without emptying your pocket.

During the 2023 vacation season, why don’t you consider taking a cruise and enjoying the many budget-friendly options available? You won’t regret it! As one of the most popular vacation choices, cruising provides an affordable way to enjoy unique experiences in different destinations around the world.

With so many budget-friendly packages and options available, you can make your cruise adventure as economical or luxurious as you desire. From pre-planned itineraries to discounted excursions, there are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all the amenities your cruise ship has to offer.

So don’t hesitate, to set sail on a budget-friendly adventure this vacation season!