Comparing Costs: Big Cruise Lines vs. Luxury Lines

Are Big Cruise Lines Nickel and Diming Customers?

When it comes to planning a cruise vacation, one of the most important factors to consider is the overall cost. While big cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean may seem like affordable options at first glance, many travelers have raised concerns about the additional fees and charges that can quickly add up during their trip. In contrast, smaller luxury lines like Viking and Azamara may have a higher initial cruise cost, but they often provide a more inclusive experience that can save you money in the long run.

The Initial Cost: Big Cruise Lines vs. Luxury Lines

Big cruise lines are known for their competitive pricing, often offering attractive deals and discounts to entice travelers. These large-scale cruise ships can accommodate thousands of passengers and offer a wide range of amenities and entertainment options. As a result, the initial cost of booking a cruise with a big cruise line like Carnival or Royal Caribbean may be lower compared to luxury lines like Silverseas, Viking or Azamara.

On the other hand, luxury cruise lines focus on providing a more intimate and upscale experience. These smaller ships typically accommodate fewer passengers and offer a higher level of personalized service. Can get into more intimate ports and stay longer in port, with included excursions. As a result, the initial cost of booking a cruise with a luxury line may be higher, but it often includes more amenities and services that would require additional fees on a big cruise line.

The Hidden Costs: Big Cruise Lines vs. Luxury Lines

While big cruise lines may offer lower initial prices, they often make up for it by charging additional fees and add-ons throughout the trip. These fees can include gratuities, specialty dining, onboard activities, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, alcohol and even soft drinks. They come after you from the time you board til the time you leave with photographers, spa sales pitches, specially dining packages and more. It can get a bit overwhelming if your not good at walking away form all the attempts. What may seem like a great deal at first can quickly turn into a budget-busting experience if you're not careful.

In contrast, luxury cruise lines like Viking and Azamara often include more amenities in their upfront pricing. These all-inclusive packages may cover gratuities, drinks, Wi-Fi access, specialty dining, and even alcoholic beverages and shore excursions. This means that you can enjoy a more inclusive experience without worrying about unexpected expenses adding up during your trip.

Calculating the Total Cost: Big Cruise Lines vs. Luxury Lines

When comparing the total cost of a cruise, it's important to consider all the additional fees and charges that may be incurred during the trip. While big cruise lines may offer lower initial prices, the final bill can end up being much higher once you factor in all the extras.

For example, let's say you book a 10-day cruise with a big cruise line at a lower initial cost. During your trip, you may end up paying extra for specialty dining, drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, and onboard activities. These additional charges can quickly add up and significantly increase the total cost of your vacation.

On the other hand, with luxury cruise lines, the higher initial cost often includes more amenities and services that would require extra charges on a big cruise line. Typically even including excursions, which can really add up on other lines. This means that you can enjoy a more inclusive experience without worrying about constantly reaching for your wallet.

I have personally spent more on a 7 day Royal Caribbean cruise in a Jr. Suite then a 10 days cruise in an Ocean View on Azamara. Why? The main reasons: Drink package on Royal was an extra $1,000, gratuities added $254, steakhouse dinner $100, Sushi $80, other meals including room service $200, shore excursions $500, laundry 1 bag $40 - Everything on Azamara was included except shore excursions, however we booked with promotion and had $400 inshore excursion credits. Also Azamara offers an industry exclusive Signature AzAmazing Evenings that are complementary if you sign up. This is the ultimate shore excursion!

On paper the Royal Cruise looked as though it would be $1500 less but is ended up costing us a few hundred more for less days and a whole lot more getting the shake down with sale pitches galore.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for You

Ultimately, the choice between a big cruise line and a luxury line depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you're looking for a more affordable option and don't mind paying for additional amenities and services, a big cruise line like Carnival or Royal Caribbean may be a good choice. Especially if traveling with younger children and even teens. As these vessels will offer a lot more to do onboard for everyone and some of the luxury lines don’t accept passengers under 18.

However, if you prefer a more inclusive experience and want to avoid the stress of constantly calculating and paying for additional charges, a luxury cruise lines or even expedition line like Viking, Quark or Azamara, Oceania may be worth the higher initial cost. Look for great deals, free airfare, onboard credits, included shore excursions and so on.

Before making a decision, it's important to carefully review the offerings and pricing of different cruise lines. Consider what amenities and services are important to you and calculate the potential additional costs that may be incurred during your trip.

Remember, a cruise vacation should be a time to relax and enjoy yourself. By choosing the right cruise line for your needs and budget, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience from start to finish.