Are you ready to set sail on the high seas with Norwegian Cruise Line? Before you embark on your dream vacation, it’s essential to understand what’s included in the initial cost and what extras you’ll need to budget for. While Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its “Free at Sea” promotions and inclusive pricing, there are still some expenses you should be aware of to avoid any surprises on board. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of what’s not included on a Norwegian Cruise Line, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pricing Structure
Norwegian Cruise Line operates on a freestyle cruising concept, which means that they offer a more relaxed, flexible approach to dining, entertainment, and activities. Their pricing structure is designed to be inclusive, with the cost of your cruise fare covering a wide range of amenities and services. However, there are some exceptions and extras that you’ll need to pay for separately.
What’s Included in the Initial Cost?
Before we dive into what’s not included, let’s take a look at what you can expect to be covered in the initial cost of your cruise:
- Accommodations in your chosen cabin category
- Meals in the main dining rooms, buffets, and casual eateries
- Room service (with some exceptions)
- Entertainment options, including live shows, movies, and live music
- Use of onboard facilities, such as the fitness center, pools, and library
- Port charges and taxes
Gratuities and Service Charges
One of the most significant expenses you’ll need to budget for on a Norwegian Cruise Line is gratuities and service charges. These fees are not included in the initial cost of your cruise and will be added to your onboard account.
How Much Are Gratuities and Service Charges?
The amount you’ll pay in gratuities and service charges will depend on the length of your cruise and the category of your cabin. Here’s a breakdown of the current rates:
- Studio, Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony cabins: $14.50 per person, per day
- Suites and The Haven: $17.50 per person, per day
These fees will be added to your onboard account and can be paid using a credit card or cash.
Beverage Packages and Drinks
While meals are included in the initial cost of your cruise, beverages are not. If you plan on enjoying cocktails, wine, or specialty drinks, you’ll need to budget for these extras.
Beverage Packages
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of beverage packages that can help you save money on drinks. These packages include:
- The Ultimate Beverage Package: This package includes cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits, as well as bottled water and specialty coffee drinks. The cost is around $99 per person, per day.
- The Premium Plus Beverage Package: This package includes everything in the Ultimate Beverage Package, plus premium spirits and wines. The cost is around $128 per person, per day.
Drinks Not Included in Beverage Packages
Some drinks are not included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s beverage packages, including:
- Specialty coffee drinks (if you don’t have a beverage package)
- Bottled water (if you don’t have a beverage package)
- Fresh-squeezed juices
- Energy drinks
- Premium spirits and wines (if you don’t have the Premium Plus Beverage Package)
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are a great way to experience the destinations on your itinerary, but they’re not included in the initial cost of your cruise.
How to Book Shore Excursions
You can book shore excursions through Norwegian Cruise Line’s website or onboard the ship. It’s recommended to book early, as popular excursions can sell out quickly.
Cost of Shore Excursions
The cost of shore excursions varies widely, depending on the activity and destination. Here are some approximate price ranges:
- Cultural tours: $50-$100 per person
- Adventure activities: $80-$150 per person
- Food and wine tours: $70-$120 per person
- Water sports: $50-$100 per person
Specialty Dining
While meals are included in the initial cost of your cruise, specialty dining experiences are not.
Specialty Dining Options
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of specialty dining options, including:
- Cagney’s Steakhouse
- La Cucina Italian Restaurant
- Le Bistro French Restaurant
- Ocean Blue Seafood Restaurant
- Teppanyaki Grill
Cost of Specialty Dining
The cost of specialty dining experiences varies, but you can expect to pay around $20-$30 per person for lunch and $30-$50 per person for dinner.
Wi-Fi and Internet Packages
Staying connected at sea can be expensive, and Wi-Fi packages are not included in the initial cost of your cruise.
Wi-Fi Packages
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of Wi-Fi packages, including:
- The Social Wi-Fi Package: This package includes access to social media and messaging apps. The cost is around $9.95 per day.
- The Premium Wi-Fi Package: This package includes access to email, web browsing, and video streaming. The cost is around $19.95 per day.
Spa and Wellness Treatments
If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate on your cruise, you’ll need to budget for spa and wellness treatments.
Spa and Wellness Options
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of spa and wellness treatments, including:
- Massages
- Facials
- Body wraps
- Sauna and steam room access
Cost of Spa and Wellness Treatments
The cost of spa and wellness treatments varies, but you can expect to pay around $100-$200 per treatment.
Other Expenses to Consider
In addition to the expenses mentioned above, there are a few other things you should budget for on your Norwegian Cruise Line cruise:
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the initial cost of your cruise, but it’s highly recommended. The cost of travel insurance varies, but you can expect to pay around 5-10% of the total cost of your cruise.
Airfare
Airfare to and from your port of departure is not included in the initial cost of your cruise. You’ll need to book your flights separately and budget for the cost.
Hotel Stays
If you plan on arriving at your port of departure early or staying overnight after your cruise, you’ll need to budget for hotel stays.
Transportation
Transportation to and from the port is not included in the initial cost of your cruise. You’ll need to budget for taxis, Uber, or other transportation costs.
In conclusion, while Norwegian Cruise Line’s inclusive pricing structure covers a wide range of amenities and services, there are still some expenses you should be aware of to avoid any surprises on board. By budgeting for gratuities and service charges, beverage packages, shore excursions, specialty dining, Wi-Fi packages, spa and wellness treatments, and other expenses, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable cruise experience.
What extras can I expect to pay for on a Norwegian Cruise Line?
When sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line, there are several extras that you can expect to pay for. These include specialty dining experiences, such as steakhouses and seafood restaurants, as well as drinks packages and shore excursions. Additionally, you may incur extra costs for services like Wi-Fi, spa treatments, and laundry. It’s essential to factor these expenses into your overall budget to avoid any surprises.
It’s worth noting that some extras, like drinks packages and specialty dining, can be pre-purchased before your cruise or added to your onboard account. This can help you budget and make the most of your time on the ship. Be sure to review your onboard account regularly to keep track of your expenses and avoid any unexpected charges.
How much do drinks packages cost on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of drinks packages to suit different tastes and budgets. The cost of these packages varies depending on the length of your cruise and the type of drinks included. For example, the “Ultimate Beverage Package” typically costs around $99 per person, per day, and includes a wide range of cocktails, wines, and beers. There may also be additional costs for premium drinks, like fine wines and top-shelf spirits.
It’s essential to consider your drinking habits and preferences when deciding whether to purchase a drinks package. If you plan to enjoy multiple drinks per day, a package may be a cost-effective option. However, if you’re a light drinker, you may be better off paying for individual drinks as you go. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of each package carefully before making a decision.
Can I bring my own drinks onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?
Norwegian Cruise Line has a strict policy prohibiting guests from bringing their own drinks onboard. This includes wine, beer, and spirits, as well as bottled water and soda. The only exception is for guests who have a medical condition requiring a specific type of drink. In these cases, prior approval from the cruise line is required.
If you’re found to have brought your own drinks onboard, they may be confiscated, and you could face additional charges or penalties. It’s essential to respect the cruise line’s policies and purchase drinks from onboard bars and restaurants. This helps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
How much do shore excursions cost on Norwegian Cruise Line?
The cost of shore excursions on Norwegian Cruise Line varies widely depending on the destination, type of excursion, and duration. Some excursions, like guided city tours, may cost around $50-$100 per person, while more adventurous activities, like snorkeling or helicopter tours, can cost $200-$500 per person or more.
It’s essential to research and book your shore excursions carefully to ensure you get the best value for your money. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of excursions through its website and onboard tour desk, but you may also be able to find cheaper alternatives through third-party providers. Be sure to read reviews and check the credentials of any provider before booking.
Can I get Wi-Fi onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available onboard all Norwegian Cruise Line ships. However, the cost and quality of the connection can vary depending on the package you choose. The cruise line offers a range of Wi-Fi packages, from basic social media access to full internet browsing and streaming.
The cost of Wi-Fi packages on Norwegian Cruise Line typically ranges from $20-$30 per day, depending on the package and length of your cruise. It’s worth noting that the connection speed and quality can be affected by the ship’s location and the number of users online at any given time. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of each package carefully before purchasing.
Are spa treatments included in the cost of a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise?
No, spa treatments are not included in the cost of a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise. However, the cruise line offers a range of spa services, from massages and facials to sauna and steam room access. The cost of these treatments varies depending on the type and duration of the service.
It’s worth noting that some spa treatments may be discounted or included as part of a package or promotion. Be sure to check the cruise line’s website or consult with the spa team onboard to find out what’s available and to book your treatments in advance.
Can I do laundry onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?
Yes, laundry facilities are available onboard all Norwegian Cruise Line ships. However, the cost and type of service can vary depending on the ship and your preferences. Some ships offer self-service laundry facilities, while others provide a full-service laundry and dry cleaning service.
The cost of laundry services on Norwegian Cruise Line typically ranges from $2-$5 per item for self-service facilities, while full-service laundry and dry cleaning can cost $10-$20 per item or more. It’s worth noting that some cruise packages or promotions may include complimentary laundry services, so be sure to check the terms and conditions of your booking.