here are so many variables when it comes to booking a Caribbean cruise. The cost of a Caribbean cruise can vary depending on the time of year, the length of the cruise, the size of the ship, the itinerary, and more. Generally speaking, a seven-night Caribbean cruise during the peak season (February-April) will cost around £1000 ($1,150) per person. This price includes your cabin, meals, and entertainment onboard the ship. It does not include airfare to and from the port city, travel insurance, shore excursions, or drinks. Of course, you can find cheaper cruises if you sail during the off-season or on a shorter itinerary. And if you're willing to forego some of the bells and whistles, you can find cruises that cost less than £900 ($1,000) per person. Ultimately, the cost of a Caribbean cruise is going to come down to your personal preferences and budget. I'll discuss different variables which will affect the cost of Caribbean cruises.
Variation of Itinerary
One of the biggest factors that will affect the cost of your cruise is the itinerary. If you want to visit popular destinations like Jamaica and the Bahamas, you’ll likely pay more than if you sail to less popular destinations like Barbados or Grenada.
The reason for this is simple: demand. More people want to visit Jamaica and the Bahamas, so cruise lines charge more money for these itineraries. If you’re looking to save money on your Caribbean cruise, consider sailing to some of the less popular destinations.
Time of Year
The time of year can also affect the cost of your cruise. The peak season for cruising in the Caribbean is during the winter months, from December to April. This is when the weather is at its best in the region and when most people have vacation time from work or school.
As you might expect, cruises during the peak season are more expensive than those sailings during the off-season. If you’re looking to save money, consider sailing during the shoulder seasons (May-November) when temperatures are still pleasant and prices are lower.
Duration of cruise
The cost of your cruise will also depend on the duration. Cruises can range from a few days to two weeks or more. Obviously, the longer the cruise, the more it will cost.
If you’re looking to save money, consider taking a shorter cruise. Three- and four-night cruises are becoming increasingly popular and they can be a great way to get a taste of cruising without breaking the bank.
Different pricing based on cabin
Your cabin choice will also affect the cost of your cruise. The most expensive cabins are usually the suites, which come with their own private balconies and other luxury amenities.
If you’re willing to forgo a balcony, you can save money by booking an inside cabin or an oceanview cabin. These cabins are usually smaller than the suites, but they’re significantly less expensive.
Most cruise lines will offer a bid upgrade scheme, which could mean you secure a better room for a very reasonable price.
What is included in the cruise cost?
The cost of your cruise will include your cabin, meals, and entertainment onboard the ship. It does not include airfare to and from the port city, travel insurance, shore excursions, or drinks.
You can usually add these extras on before you cruise or while you’re onboard. Many people choose to purchase a cruise package that includes airfare and other extras for one low price. If you’re looking for the best value, this is often the way to go.
How much are drinks packages?
The drinks package price will vary depending on the cruise line, the length of the cruise, and the type of package you choose.
Most cruise lines offer some sort of alcoholic beverage package. These packages typically include unlimited beer, wine, and spirits for a set price per day. The cost of these packages ranges from about $50-$100 per person, per day.
Some cruise lines also offer non-alcoholic beverage packages that include unlimited soda, coffee, tea, and juices for a set price per day. These packages typically cost about $10-$30 per person, per day.
Of course, you can always purchase drinks individually onboard the ship. Prices for individual drinks will vary, but you can expect to pay about $5-$10 for a beer, $7-$12 for a glass of wine, and $9-$15 for a cocktail.
If you’re planning on drinking a lot of alcohol on your cruise, I would recommend purchasing a drinks package. The packages usually offer good
How much are excursions?
The cost of shore excursions can vary depending on the destination and the activity. Popular activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, and dolphin encounters typically cost between $50-$100 per person.
Some cruise lines offer “all-inclusive” shore excursions that include transportation, food, and drinks for one low price. These packages can be a great value, especially if you’re visiting multiple destinations on your cruise.
You can also find many free or low-cost things to do in most port cities. If you’re looking to save money, consider doing some research before your cruise to find some budget-friendly activities at your ports of call.
How much are the speciality restaurants on a cruise?
The cost of specialty restaurants onboard varies by cruise line, but you can expect to pay about $20-$40 per person for a meal. Some cruise lines include one or two specialty restaurant meals in the cost of the cruise, so be sure to check before you book.
If you’re looking to save money, stick to the main dining room or buffet on your cruise. The food is usually very good and you won’t have to pay any extra fees.
Ship Size
Smaller ships generally cost less than larger ones because they have fewer amenities and less space. If you’re looking for a more intimate cruising experience, you may be willing to pay more for a smaller vessel.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cruise with more activities and entertainment options, you may be willing to pay more for a larger ship. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what kind of cruising experience you want and how much you’re willing to pay for it.
Cruise Line
The cruise line you sail with can also affect the cost of your voyage. Some cruise lines are known for their luxury experiences and charge higher prices accordingly. Other cruise lines are geared towards budget-minded travelers and offer lower-priced itineraries.
If you’re not sure which cruise line is right for you, I recommend doing some research to find one that fits your needs and budget. There are many great cruise lines out there, so take your time and find the one that’s right for you.
What are the cheapest cruise lines?
Some of the cheapest cruise lines include Carnival, MSC, and Costa. These cruise lines offer a variety of itineraries and sail to many different destinations. They also offer a wide range of cabin options, so you can choose the one that’s right for you.
Other cruise lines, such as Celebrity, Princess and Norwegian Cruise Line offer all inclusive promotions which can be extremely cost effective, however they are more up-market than the cheapest cruise lines.
Your Budget
Finally, the most important factor in deciding how much to spend on a Caribbean cruise is your budget. Only you can decide how much you’re willing to spend on your vacation. Once you’ve determined your budget, you can start looking for cruises that fit into that price range.
I hope this article has helped you understand the different factors that affect the cost of a Caribbean cruise. Remember, there are many great deals out there if you’re willing to do some research and sail during the off-season. No matter what your budget is, there’s a Caribbean cruise out there for you.
Happy cruising!