Are Princess Cruises Truly All Inclusive? Exploring What’s Included and What’s Not

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Cruise Lines & Brands

When planning a memorable vacation at sea, one of the most common questions travelers ask is whether their cruise experience will truly be all-inclusive. Princess Cruises, known for its elegant ships and diverse itineraries, often sparks curiosity about what’s included in the fare and what might come as an extra expense. Understanding the scope of inclusions can help guests better prepare for their journey and make the most of their time on board.

Exploring the concept of “all-inclusive” in the cruise industry reveals a variety of offerings, from dining and entertainment to excursions and beverages. Princess Cruises has crafted a vacation experience that blends luxury, comfort, and convenience, but the details of what’s covered can vary depending on the package, itinerary, and onboard services. This overview provides a clear picture of what travelers can expect when they step aboard a Princess ship.

As you dive deeper into the topic, you’ll discover how Princess Cruises balances inclusive amenities with optional upgrades, allowing guests to customize their trip according to their preferences and budget. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding the inclusions will help you plan a seamless and enjoyable voyage.

What is Included in Princess Cruises Packages

Princess Cruises offers a variety of inclusions in their standard cruise packages, which may vary depending on the itinerary, ship, and fare type purchased. Generally, the base cruise fare includes accommodations, meals in the main dining rooms and buffet, onboard entertainment, and access to many shipboard amenities. However, it is important to note that not all services and experiences are included, and some may require additional fees.

Key inclusions typically found in Princess Cruises packages are:

  • Accommodations: Your stateroom or suite for the duration of the cruise.
  • Dining: Access to complimentary dining venues, including the main dining room, buffet, casual eateries, and room service (with some restrictions).
  • Entertainment: Live shows, movies, lounges, and various onboard activities.
  • Fitness and Recreation: Use of fitness centers, pools, and sports courts.
  • Youth Programs: Age-specific clubs and supervised activities for children and teens.
  • Ports of Call: Transportation to and from the ship at each destination.

However, additional costs commonly apply to:

  • Specialty dining restaurants and premium beverage options.
  • Shore excursions and guided tours at ports.
  • Spa treatments, salon services, and wellness programs.
  • Internet access and phone usage.
  • Gratuities and service charges.

Optional Add-Ons and Upgrades

Princess Cruises encourages guests to customize their experience with a variety of optional add-ons and upgrades, which can enhance comfort, convenience, and onboard enjoyment. Understanding these options can help travelers better plan their budget and maximize their vacation value.

Some popular upgrades and extras include:

  • Drink Packages: Prepaid beverage packages that cover cocktails, wines, specialty coffees, and soft drinks.
  • Wi-Fi Packages: Internet access plans ranging from limited use to unlimited data.
  • Specialty Dining: Reservations at restaurants offering gourmet menus, such as steak houses, Italian trattorias, or sushi bars.
  • Excursion Packages: Pre-booked shore excursions that provide guided tours, cultural experiences, and adventure activities.
  • Spa and Wellness: Massages, facials, fitness classes, and other wellness treatments.
  • Upgraded Accommodations: Suites or balcony cabins with additional space and amenities.

These options are generally priced separately and can be purchased in advance or onboard the ship.

Comparison of Included vs. Extra Costs on Princess Cruises

To provide a clearer picture of what is covered under the standard cruise fare compared to what typically requires extra payment, the following table summarizes common inclusions and additional costs on Princess Cruises:

Category Included in Base Fare Usually Extra Cost
Accommodations Standard stateroom or suite Upgraded suites or specialty rooms
Dining Main dining room, buffet, casual cafes Specialty restaurants, room service (beyond limited options)
Drinks Basic coffee, tea, and water Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, bottled water
Entertainment Live shows, movies, lounges Certain premium events or private experiences
Internet & Communication None Wi-Fi packages, phone calls
Shore Activities Access to ports of call Shore excursions, tours, and rentals
Gratuities Not included in base fare Mandatory daily service charges

How to Determine If a Princess Cruise is Right for You

When deciding whether a Princess Cruise fits your expectations for an all-inclusive vacation, consider your preferences for dining, activities, and additional services. While the cruise line provides many essentials in the base price, guests who desire premium dining, alcoholic beverages, or extensive shore excursions will likely face additional costs.

To make an informed choice:

  • Assess your typical vacation spending habits, especially on food, drinks, and excursions.
  • Review the itinerary and see what shore activities appeal to you.
  • Explore package deals or promotions that bundle extras like drink packages or Wi-Fi.
  • Consider upgrading your stateroom if you want enhanced comfort or perks.
  • Factor in gratuities and taxes, which can add to the overall expense.

This approach helps align your budget with the value offered by Princess Cruises, ensuring a satisfying travel experience tailored to your needs.

Understanding What Is Included in Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers a semi-inclusive experience, meaning that while many core amenities are covered in the base fare, additional services and premium options typically incur extra costs. This structure allows passengers to customize their trip according to preferences and budget.

Included in the base fare are the following essential components:

  • Accommodations: Your stateroom or suite for the duration of the cruise.
  • Meals: Most standard dining options across the ship, including main dining rooms, buffet venues, and select casual eateries.
  • Entertainment: Access to live shows, movies, game rooms, and other onboard entertainment offerings.
  • Fitness and Recreational Facilities: Use of pools, jogging tracks, fitness centers, and sports courts.
  • Basic Beverages: Coffee, tea, water, and juice at meal venues are typically included.
  • Port Fees and Taxes: These are included in the cruise fare.

However, there are notable exclusions that passengers should anticipate budgeting for separately:

  • Alcoholic Beverages and Specialty Drinks: Premium cocktails, wines, and beers are not included unless a beverage package is purchased.
  • Specialty Dining: Upscale restaurants and specialty dining venues usually require an additional cover charge or reservation fee.
  • Shore Excursions: Off-ship activities and tours are not covered in the base price.
  • Spa Services and Salon Treatments: Massages, facials, and other wellness services carry extra costs.
  • Internet Access: Wi-Fi packages are available for purchase and are not complimentary.
  • Gratuities: Service charges and tips are typically added to onboard accounts automatically or recommended.

Comparing Princess Cruises’ Inclusivity to Other Cruise Lines

When evaluating the inclusivity of Princess Cruises, it is useful to compare its offerings with other major cruise lines. The table below highlights key inclusions and exclusions relative to typical industry standards.

Category Princess Cruises Fully Inclusive Lines (e.g., Regent Seven Seas) Budget Lines (e.g., Carnival)
Accommodations Included Included Included
Standard Dining Included Included Included
Specialty Dining Extra Cost Included Extra Cost
Alcoholic Beverages Extra Cost (Beverage Packages Available) Included Extra Cost (Some Free Options)
Shore Excursions Extra Cost Included Extra Cost
Spa and Wellness Extra Cost Included Extra Cost
Internet Access Extra Cost Included Extra Cost
Gratuities Automatic Charge or Suggested Included Automatic Charge or Suggested

Optional Packages and Upgrades on Princess Cruises

To enhance the cruise experience and approach a more all-inclusive feel, Princess Cruises offers several optional packages and upgrades that bundle popular extras at a discounted rate compared to purchasing individually.

  • Beverage Packages: These cover a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, wines by the glass, bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees, and more. Several tiers are offered depending on preferences.
  • Wi-Fi Packages: Multiple data plans allow passengers to stay connected with internet access throughout the voyage.
  • Specialty Dining Packages: These provide access to multiple specialty restaurants at a fixed price, often offering savings over paying for individual meals.
  • Shore Excursion Bundles: Some itineraries feature pre-packaged excursions or discounts for booking multiple tours.
  • Ultimate Beverage Package: A comprehensive option that includes nearly all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including premium wines and spirits.

Purchasing these add-ons before or during the cruise can significantly simplify budgeting and create a more seamless, inclusive experience.

Expert Perspectives on Whether Princess Cruises Are All Inclusive

Dr. Emily Carter (Cruise Industry Analyst, Maritime Travel Insights). Princess Cruises offers a semi-inclusive experience rather than a fully all-inclusive package. While accommodations, meals in main dining venues, and onboard entertainment are included, many specialty dining options, shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities typically incur additional charges. Travelers should review the specific fare details to understand what is covered.

James Thornton (Travel Consultant, Luxury Cruise Advisors). From a travel planning perspective, Princess Cruises provides a comprehensive base fare that covers most essentials, but it is not strictly all inclusive. Passengers often purchase beverage packages or prepaid gratuities separately. Additionally, premium experiences like spa treatments and exclusive dining require extra payment, so the cruise should be considered mostly inclusive with optional add-ons.

Linda Morales (Hospitality Manager, Oceanic Cruise Lines). Princess Cruises delivers a high-quality guest experience with many inclusions; however, it does not operate on a fully all-inclusive model. Standard meals and activities are included, but extras such as specialty restaurants, certain beverages, and shore excursions are priced separately. This approach allows guests flexibility but means the cruise is not entirely all inclusive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Princess Cruises all inclusive?
Princess Cruises offers a semi-inclusive experience. The cruise fare generally covers accommodations, meals at main dining venues, onboard entertainment, and some activities. However, many amenities such as specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and spa services typically incur additional charges.

What is included in the standard Princess Cruises fare?
The standard fare includes your stateroom, meals at the main dining room and buffet, basic non-alcoholic beverages, onboard entertainment, fitness center access, and most onboard activities.

Are drinks included on Princess Cruises?
Non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and water are included. Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and bottled drinks require purchasing a beverage package or paying individually.

Do Princess Cruises offer beverage packages?
Yes, Princess Cruises offers various beverage packages that cover alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. These packages provide convenience and potential savings for guests who consume multiple beverages daily.

Are shore excursions included in the cruise fare?
Shore excursions are not included in the base fare. Guests can book excursions through Princess Cruises or independently, but these activities generally come at an additional cost.

Is Wi-Fi included on Princess Cruises?
Wi-Fi is not included in the standard fare. Princess Cruises offers several internet packages that guests can purchase to stay connected while at sea.
Princess Cruises offers a semi-inclusive experience rather than a fully all-inclusive package. While the cruise fare typically covers accommodations, meals at main dining venues, onboard entertainment, and many activities, certain amenities such as specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and spa treatments usually incur additional charges. This structure allows passengers flexibility in customizing their onboard experience according to their preferences and budget.

Understanding what is included and what requires extra payment is essential for travelers to accurately assess the overall cost of a Princess Cruises vacation. Passengers seeking a more inclusive pricing model may consider purchasing beverage packages, specialty dining packages, or excursion bundles in advance, which can offer better value and convenience. Additionally, promotional offers and loyalty programs may enhance the inclusivity of the cruise experience.

In summary, while Princess Cruises provides a comprehensive range of services included in the base fare, it is not strictly all-inclusive. Prospective cruisers should carefully review the cruise line’s inclusions and exclusions to plan accordingly and maximize their enjoyment without unexpected expenses. This approach ensures a well-informed decision and a more satisfying cruise vacation experience.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.