Ever wondered what’s really included on a cruise? You might be surprised by the many free perks of your cruise fare.
From complimentary cruise cabin amenities and gourmet dining to exclusive onboard entertainment and bonus cash credits, cruising differs greatly from hotels or resorts.
In this post, I share the free extras that make a cruise a value-packed vacation.
25 Included Cruise Ship Perks
1. Continental Room Service Breakfast
Waking up on a cruise ship is a delight when you have a freshly prepared continental breakfast delivered right to your cabin at no extra charge!
This service allows you to start your day at your own pace, enjoying a warm meal from the comfort of your stateroom.
When I cruise, I always appreciate ordering continental room service. Enjoying a warm cup of coffee and delicious pastries while taking in the ocean view from my balcony is the perfect way to start the day.
2. Complimentary Dining in the Main Dining Room
One of the standout benefits of cruising is that your main dining meals are included in the cruise fare. Every meal is delicious, whether it’s a mouthwatering steak, fresh seafood, or even a tasty lobster dinner (offered on select cruise lines).
I’ve often been impressed by the quality and variety offered in the main dining room. This all-inclusive dining option means you can relax and enjoy each meal without worrying about additional expenses.
3. Buffet and Casual Dining Options
Cruise ships offer included dining options, from buffets to casual dining venues that serve various dishes throughout the day. Many cruise lines offer poolside grills, burgers, and hot dogs, and cafes offer an assortment of sweet treats, so there is always something to eat.
I love trying different dining venues and exploring new dishes and flavors. These free dining options provide a versatile experience that caters to all cruisers.
4. Adult-Only Pool Area
The adult-only pool area is perfect for relaxing when you need a break from the family hustle. Available on most major cruise lines, this exclusive adult-only area offers comfortable loungers, a quieter ambiance, and a chance to relax away from the busy main pool.
I’ve personally spent afternoons by the peaceful adult-only pool, enjoying a book and soaking up the calm environment. The adult-only pool is a free amenity that enhances the cruise experience.
5. Complimentary Towels
Cruise ships provide fresh towels throughout the ship, meaning you don’t have to pack your own. Whether you’re taking a dip in the pool, enjoying a beach excursion, or simply relaxing on deck, you’ll always have a clean towel ready for use.
Knowing it’s provided on the cruise ship, I appreciate not worrying about packing bulky towels in my luggage.
6. Onboard Activities and Attractions
Cruise ships offer a range of free activities and onboard attractions like water slides, rock climbing walls, zip lines, and mini golf. These activities cater to both the adventurous cruisers and those simply looking to have some lighthearted fun.
I’ve enjoyed racing down water slides and challenging the family in a game of mini golf (all without an extra fee).
7. Free Alcoholic Beverages at Special Events
Occasionally, cruise ships celebrate with complimentary alcoholic beverages during special events like art auctions, shopping seminars, or the champagne waterfall (on Princess Cruises). During these events, you can enjoy a glass of free champagne or sparkling wine.
8. Complimentary Drinks at Loyalty Parties
Many cruise lines host exclusive loyalty or past passenger parties where cruise passengers can enjoy complimentary drinks. These events are designed to thank returning guests with free wine, sparkling wine, and other beverages.
I’ve attended a few of these gatherings and found that the friendly atmosphere and free drinks made me feel truly appreciated.
Related: How to Get Free Drinks on Your Cruise
9. Free Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Cruise ships offer an abundance of non-alcoholic beverages at no additional cost. Enjoy unlimited cups of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, iced tea, lemonade, and fruit drinks from self-service stations.
I often begin my day with a hot coffee from the buffet and enjoy a cold glass of lemonade with lunch during the afternoon. These complimentary drinks keep cruisers hydrated without extra charges.
10. In-Cabin Robes
Many cruise lines provide complimentary robes for use in your cabin, adding a touch of luxury and comfort to your stay.
I’ve cherished these in-cabin robes as they make me feel pampered while I’m on a cruise ship. I love waking up in the morning, putting on my bathrobe, and relaxing on my balcony. This is my ideal way to start my day.
11. Extra Cabin Comfort Enhancements
Cruise ships allow passengers to request extra comfort items. Items like additional pillows, mattress toppers, and comforters are available to guests upon request.
These items can improve your onboard experience and make your stateroom feel more comfortable. I’ve often requested extra pillows or a mattress topper to sleep more comfortably.
12. Stay Cool and Comfortable Onboard
If you ever find your cabin a bit stuffy, you can request an extra fan to keep the air circulating. Though many cruise ships provide limited fans, the crew is usually very accommodating if you ask for additional cooling options.
This simple service is a small detail that contributes greatly to your comfort.
13. CPAP Assistance
For cruise guests who rely on a CPAP machine, cruise lines are well-prepared to assist with your specific health needs. Many ships offer extension cords or guidelines on how to set up your CPAP machine, ensuring it runs smoothly throughout your trip.
I’ve seen firsthand how the crew goes above and beyond to help fellow travelers manage their CPAP requirements without any hassle. This level of support ensures that health needs are met for all cruise passengers.
14. Free Wheelchair Assistance
Cruise ships offer free wheelchair assistance to help guests navigate the ship with ease. If you need help boarding or moving around the decks, simply inform the staff, and they will provide the necessary support.
15. Complimentary Charms and Pendants
Many cruise lines offer free charms or pendants from the onboard jewelry shops (Effy). This is typically used to get you into the store to shop, but the charms and pendants can be very nice.
Over the years, I’ve picked up free charms to give as small gifts for friends and family members. It’s also a great time to peek inside the jewelry store and see what they have to offer.
16. Free Art Prints
During onboard art auctions, some cruises offer free art prints as part of the event. This complimentary art is a nice bonus for taking the time to visit the art gallery or auction.
17. Booking Bonus with Onboard Cruise Credit
Many cruise lines reward you for booking your next voyage while you’re still on board by offering free credit toward future cruises. This onboard booking bonus is a fantastic way to improve your next cruise vacation.
I’ve taken advantage of this bonus on several trips, using the onboard credit to enjoy specialty restaurants and onboard activities.
18. Additional Onboard Credit Promotions
Occasionally, travel agents or special promotions provide additional onboard credit. This credit can be used towards shore excursions, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, and onboard purchases.
Throughout the years, I’ve received onboard credit through promotions, which really improved my cruise experience. These extra credits are a wonderful surprise that stretches your cruise budget further.
19. Shareholder Credits
You might be eligible for shareholder credits if you own at least 100 shares in one of the major cruise line companies. These credits, sometimes amounting to around $100 or more on a week-long cruise, can be used as onboard spending money.
I found this perk intriguing because it combines the benefits of investing in a cruise line while receiving onboard credit and additional benefits.
20. Cruise Line Loyalty Programs
Signing up for a cruise line’s loyalty program is free and opens the door to a variety of exclusive benefits. Over time, as you accumulate cruises with the same line, you can earn perks such as free specialty dining, laundry services, or mini bar upgrades.
Over the years, I’ve been rewarded for cruising with the same cruise lines. Cruise line loyalty programs have greatly improved my cruise experience, so they are worth signing up for.
21. Private Island Perks
Nowadays, most major cruise lines have private islands. The great thing about visiting a private island is that there are so many inclusions.
From free transportation to beach access and lunch, the cruise line’s private islands are among the best parts of cruising. I’ve spent many enjoyable days on cruise line private islands, completely stress-free, enjoying the same high level of service that I experienced on board.
22. Complimentary Cabin Upgrades
Booking a guaranteed cabin sometimes opens the door to unexpected free upgrades. There’s no better feeling than discovering that your inside cabin was upgraded to an ocean view or balcony cabin.
Although these upgrades aren’t guaranteed, the possibility adds an element of excitement to your cruise.
23. Bid for Cabin Upgrades
Some cruise lines offer a bidding system for cabin upgrades, allowing you to potentially secure a higher category at a reduced rate. While this option isn’t entirely free, it provides a cost-effective way to enjoy a more spacious or better-located cabin.
I’ve participated in cabin upgrade bidding on a few occasions, and the extra savings made my experience even more enjoyable.
When I sailed on Enchanted Princess, I did a small amount to upgrade my balcony cabin to a mini-suite. I won the big and was upgraded to the larger stateroom, which made for an amazing week.
24. Free Supervised Kids Club
The supervised kids club is something every family should take advantage of when they’re on a cruise. This safe and vibrant space allows kids to make new friends and participate in fun activities while parents relax.
Over the years, my kids have spent so much time in the kids’ club, and they love it. It was the perfect place for the kids to enjoy themselves while I relaxed in the adult-only pool.
Related: Cruise Ship Kids’ Clubs: Everything You Need to Know
25. Complimentary Guest Entertainment
One of the best reasons to sail on a cruise ship is for the included entertainment. From Broadway-style shows, to Ice Skating performances and comedy acts, there is something for everyone.
All these incredible shows are included in your fare, ensuring every evening of your cruise vacation is filled with amazing performances.
I’ve been amazed by the production quality and talent showcased onboard and how it’s evolved over the years. The onboard entertainment guarantees that you leave with unforgettable memories.
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What’s your favorite free perk on a cruise ship? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ilana
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