10 Things Rookie Cruisers Don't Know are Included (FREE) on a Cruise

If you're going on a cruise for the first time, you might be wondering what is included or "free" on a cruise. While cruises aren't all inclusive, many things that are included on a cruise surprise first time cruisers (& even a few repeat cruisers!).

In this video, I go over what free things you'll find on a cruise ship, from accommodations to food and beyond. I also share some of the things that are not included on a cruise, so you can plan and budget for any extra costs on your cruise vacation.

Whether you're going on a Carnival cruise, Royal Caribbean cruise, Princess cruise, Norwegian cruise, or any other popular cruise line, these cruise tips will help you get ready for your trip.

These days, as costs have increased overall in travel, I'm reminded of how much is included on cruises and the good value they represent as a vacation.

RESOURCES I RECOMMEND

🛳 THE ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER 🛳

______
Please note that this video is not sponsored. The links in this description are affiliate links, meaning that I will make a commission on purchases you make through my links, at no extra cost to you.

As Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

CRUISE ESSENTIALS

Luggage tag holders:

*What I have: Carry-on Textured Luggage 21", 24" Textured Luggage checked bag

_______
FTC LEGAL DISCLOSURE - Some links found in the description box of my videos are affiliate links, meaning that I will make a commission on purchases you make through my links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I personally like and trust.
_______

Please note that I am unable to give personal cruise and travel advice. If you leave a comment I try my best to answer.

ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!

Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
____________
Some of the video footage used in this video courtesy of RCCL , Celebrity Cruises and NCLH.
____________
Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic

[lalajohnson]

When I went on a cruise with my sister and her family, she pointed out an interesting fact. When you cruise it gives you more family time because you're not driving, dealing with traffic, cleaning, cooking etc. In that fact, it makes them worth the price.

[cafsixtieslover]

We are the original cruise meanies. We never pay for anything that is not included. Quite happy to drink water, tea and coffee for an entire week if that is what it takes. The extras are such a rip off.

[zikisbirdbuddies]

60 and going on my 1st cruise on June 24. Watching all your videos. Edit. I went and it was fantastic. Very addicting. Booked 2 more already. Your planner and videos were so helpful.

[stephaniestreeter]

I love cruising, to me its the best of travelling with a floating hotel.😊 I started cruising in my 30s and there are a few things that I picked up on if anyone would like this information. So far I have only cruised with Carnival at this point, but I believe that you still take a 12 can of soda on board. I also recommend taking an empty water bottle with you instead of using the small cups to get your water with. Go see the shows they have on board, they are pretty good and have a great time. If you don't get to everything this time, you can go back again which I have done. St.Marrtin, St.Thomas and St.Kitts are my favorite islands to visit.

[cindye.]

Just some of the many reasons we love Virgin Voyages…
Free soda, free wi-fi, free fitness classes, fabulous food in real restaurants at no extra charge (no main dining room or buffets!), no kids!

[jerfy]

Dining protips: order as much and as many items as you want in the dining room. Order 4 appetizers and 3 entrees if you want, and they will serve it. Also, if there was an item you enjoyed on the menu yesterday, and its not on today's menu, ask for it. MOST of the time, they will prepare it for you. (I advise tipping your server and maitre d' in advance if you plan on going crazy or making especially picky orders)

[pinkparasollise]

Here's my funniest cruise story... 30 years ago, my "wildman" cousin and his wife went on a Caribbean cruise By surprise, 2 of his high school friends with their wives were on this cruise! There was a bad storm, and by Captain's orders, no one was to go outside. But, my 'wildman' cousin and his 2 friends decide not to listen. Taking their drinks, they go outside. They're all alone. They make their way up to the top deck jacuzzi. Since no one is around, they take off their clothes, sit in the jacuzzi with their drinks. The storm is blowing all around, my cousin is loving it. All of a sudden, a gust of wind blows their clothes off into the void. They manage to find an employee staircase and head back to their staterooms. (I'm sure cruise employees see all kinds of wild behavior like this). My cousin's wife thought it was funny, but the one friend's wife locked him out of their stateroom. He wound up staying with the other couple.

[GorgeousRoddyChrome]

YES!!! Knowing what is included on specific cruise lines would be wonderful. Thank you 🙏

[daverussell]

Be sure and purchase cruise insurance. We had a cruise scheduled for April. Three days before we left, I ended up in the hospital with a blood clot. We had to cancel the cruise, and we now have it rescheduled for September. Our travel agent, Lawler Travel Agent, worked very well with us in getting our money refunded. The insurance was only $300. Well worth the cost. Also, purchase health insurance. Your health insurance does not cover you when you leave the country.

[simonsarpy]

I just want to say that my family took our first cruise, my first since navy years long ago, and I must say we will only vacation cruising from now on. It’s not like being in the Navy. My wife watches all your videos and ordered items off Amazon that you suggested and our cruise went without any issues. Thank you for honest opinions and knowledge.

[zizi]

So funny Ive been watching your cruise content, but I don't have any plans of going on a cruise. 😂 Watching just makes me happy 😅

[_dakota_]

I am glad you are being honest and letting people know what things are not covered on a cruse ship. I'm sure a lot of people do not pay attention to this very important information and then have a hissy fit when they get home and get a huge bill on things they thought was free on the trip.
When I went on the Royal Caribbean International, Cruse Ship many years ago, it was ok. the food was delicious but we always ask if this is included because they will not tell you unless you ask them. I can not believe they charge soda so we drank the free all you can drink lemonad and it was good!
You don't need an expensive cabin because your not going to be in there, your going to want to be out and walking around the ship and enjoying yourself.
Also do not bring anything valuable like expencive jewelry or anything flashy with you on a cruise ship . Last thing you want to be is a victim of thief. No place is safe but on a cruse ship you need to be even extra careful and be aware of your surrounding and never let your guard down because there is always someone looking for an easy prey.

[richschaeffer]

I usually don't comment on videos but you are correct on this one. My wife & I have over 200 sea days on several different lines. Pricing has risen at least 30 to 40% for less, our last Princess on the Emerland service was horrific. When people get tired of horrible service & crazy prices things will change then & only then will this happen. Cruising used to be a good value not so much nowadays..

[nancygavin]

Thanks for all the info. Instead of the word FREE, I use the term Prepaid, or No Out of Pocket Expenses (NOPE). Cruise line policies differ and they are charging more now for previously included "free" items. Good to educate yourself.

[aaronflanagan]

Cruises are really a great value for a vacation. Even with significant room upgrades, we can still get way more for our money than at a resort with comparable amenities. And we get to travel to different ports and do fun things. It’s some travel to and from home but once we are on the ship, it’s just a matter of going to different places at the right times.

[DanielJohnson-ecrk]

Main dining for brunch and supper are always incredible

[JulioWY]

If I’m going on a cruise the last thing on my mind is working out😂

[marychrishannon]

Have you addressed using the ships laundry? On our last Caribbean cruise, we did several shore excursions. We came back sweaty and smelly. When they offered a laundry special of “Everything that fits in the bag is a certain price”, we went for it. It was a 10-day cruise, so near the end we washed all of our clothes, even though there was not a special. We arrived home with clean laundry and our luggage didn’t smell like sweat.
We have a 12-day Alaskan cruise in a few days, and we are planning to use the laundry service rather than arm wrestle another suitcase through the airport. (We are seniors).

On another topic. I mentioned to my hairdresser that my hair felt “heavy” on our last cruise. A cruiser herself, she told me to bring a clarifying shampoo as the water on most ships is hard. I bought some, can’t wait to see how it works.

[mitchellbelinda]

My favorite thing about cruising is the perks that’s included in the cost of the cruise package!!! Thanks for reminding us😊

[lawhitlizzmore]

I would like to see a video on Carnival Celebration first time cruiser.. Thank you. I love your videos. Great information..