All-Inclusive Cruising Explained

The term ‘all-inclusive’ is one you might have heard countless times when it comes to cruises and resort holidays, but what does it actually mean? When booking your cruise, cruise lines will sometimes offer ‘all-inclusive’ experiences as incentives to book with them, but knowing exactly what this means is essential for booking a cruise that works for you.

At Bolsover Cruise Club, we know that getting good value for money for your cruise is important, so we’re here to explain everything you need to know about all-inclusive cruising.

What Does ‘All-Inclusive’ Mean?

The term ‘all-inclusive’ refers to the idea that additional perks are included in the base cruising fare that guests pay when booking their holiday. The exact details of what’s included in this fare can vary between cruise lines, but an ‘all-inclusive’ cruise tends to include dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, and entertainment in this initial fee.

The tricky thing about all-inclusive cruising is that different cruise providers have slightly varying definitions of what the term means for them and their cruising holidays. Typically, guests can expect the following perks to be included in an all-inclusive cruise:

• Dining
• Beverages
• Gratuities
• Wi-Fi

An important detail to note is that while all-inclusive cruises may offer the above-listed perks within their base fare, additional packages are likely to be available for purchase to access premium facilities or a wider variety of perks. 

For example, some cruise lines offer a base drinks package, but guests can pay extra to access a wider range of beverages, such as P&O Cruises’ drinks packages, which provide a variety of additional beverage selections.

Guests should also note that the term ‘all-inclusive’ doesn’t strictly mean that additional payments aren’t required for certain benefits. While all-inclusive cruises cover the basics, it’s important to recognise what isn’t included under the ‘all-inclusive’ umbrella:

• Shore Excursions: While guests are free to independently explore each port of call, onshore activities, tours, and events are rarely included in the cruise fare and will therefore incur an additional fee.
• Luxury Restaurants and Lounges: Dining halls and public spaces are typically accessible to all on a cruise ship; however, certain dining experiences and drinking locations may be reserved exclusively for those who have upgraded to specific packages.
• Additional Activities: Guests can usually enjoy swimming and nightly entertainment included in their fare, but access to other facilities like spas, gyms, and classes may come at an additional cost.

As noted above, every cruise line will define an ‘all-inclusive’ experience slightly differently, so guests must check what’s included in their specific cruise package to ensure they are paying for the experience they want.

Are All Cruises All-Inclusive?

The short answer is no. Cruise lines vary in what they include in their base cruise fare, and certainly not every provider offers exclusively all-inclusive packages. 

Cruise lines that specialise in luxury experiences – such as Regent Seven Seas or Silversea – are more likely to offer all-inclusive cruising to guarantee a stress-free cruise for their guests. However, those with a larger customer base travelling to popular destinations like the Mediterranean are more likely to offer a customisable cruising experience, in which guests can pay for precisely the experience they want.

Deciding If All-Inclusive Is Right For You

All-inclusive cruises can be cost-effective for many people, providing a holiday experience that isn’t hindered by financial concerns. Deciding whether an all-inclusive experience is right for you comes down to several factors that each guest must assess the importance of for themselves.

Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to go with an all-inclusive cruise:

Will You Get Your Money’s Worth?

The price of all-inclusive cruises covers the cost of the food, drink, and facilities that the cruise line assumes you are going to access during your cruise. Assessing whether this is right for you comes down to determining whether you are going to get your money’s worth.

How often are you going to dine at the ship’s restaurant? Would you want drinks throughout the day as you relax? Do you think you will attend the entertainment available on the ship? The value of an all-inclusive cruise comes down to whether it is value for money, and this depends on whether you are likely to use more than the value you are paying for.

Do You Want the Extras?

All-inclusive packages vary in the perks they include. Some cruise lines include activities, events, and exclusive dining experiences in their all-inclusive offerings, so deciding whether they are worth it also comes down to whether you want the additional extras you are paying for.

Much of this depends on your cruising style. Do you prefer relaxing by the pool or making the most of each day’s activities? Do you prefer casual dining or a more luxurious experience? When you call into port, do you want the freedom to roam as you like or attend exclusive events and itineraries? Consider the details of your specific all-inclusive package and make an assessment based on these factors.

Discover Your Perfect Cruise Getaway with Bolsover Cruise Club

Get ready to book your next cruise getaway with all of the major cruise lines available here at Bolsover Cruise Club. If you need help booking a cruise, please don’t hesitate to contact us. A member of our team will be happy to assist you.