Cruise Basics: An Introduction to the Best All-Inclusive Cruise Deals

All-Inclusive Cruises
An all-inclusive cruise vacation is one of the most popular vacation choices today. Whatever type of traveler you are: single, couple, family, young or old, all-inclusive cruises are convenient, relaxing, engaging, and, as described, include much of your vacation cost in one price upfront.

But finding the right cruise deal today is more complicated than it used to be. There are many more choices to be made in finding the best all-inclusive cruise deals that meet your needs. We're eager to help you pick the cruise line, cruise ship and cruise destination that's right for you!

How Inclusive is an All-Inclusive Cruise?
Most cruise lines claim to offer all inclusive cruise packages in some way, but some cruise lines offer more all inclusive cruises than others. Your cruise price generally includes your accommodations and your onboard meals in the main dining area. However, from line to line there are some exceptions.

Extra charges may include dining in some alternative dining restaurants onboard, shore excursions, liquor, wine and soft drinks, and of course expenses of a personal nature, including shopping in the onboard boutiques, casino games and the like. Our cruise experts can help guide you and explain differences among all-inclusive cruises, and you can also find useful information for each cruise line on our site.

What’s New With All-Inclusive Cruise Packages?
How about bungee jumping, rock-climbing walls, water parks, onboard ice rinks, miniature golf and bocce ball, trampolines, glass blowing, onboard surfing, watching movies under the stars on a giant screen. You can enjoy comfort beds, luxurious linens, elegant toiletries, superb spas and fitness centers, concierge and butler services.

Then there’s culinary kitchen centers, wine and caviar bars, ice cream parlors, alternative dining venues featuring cuisine from some of the world’s top-end chefs like Todd English, Joachim Splichal, Wolfgang Puck, Georges Blanc, Jacques Pepin and others.

With larger ships come more amenities, and ships are getting larger overall. Gone is the day when six to eight decks defined the typical cruise ship’s size. Today’s ships range from 12 to 19 decks (and even more pricing categories), two-level apartment-size suites, more intimate public areas, and much more. (The shopping promenade on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas is longer than 1.5 football fields.)

Discerning travelers are likely to lean toward luxury cruise lines (our rating: 5 - 6 stars), upper premium lines (our rating: 4 - 4.5 stars), or small ships that may offer fewer activities, but provide them more exclusivity and an ambience they prefer. Others prefer Mainstream Cruise Lines (our rating: 3 - 3.5 stars). Plus, there are River Cruises & Barges as well as expedition cruises and private yachts.

Bottom line: There are so many ships out there! Some are your dreams come true, and some may be your nightmare. Our cruise experts will help differentiate which meet your needs best.

Shopping for your cruise
Many consumers shop cruises solely on the basis of price. But there are subtle distinctions that make a difference in the cruise experience. Each line and cruise ship has its own personality.

You shouldn't just want the cheapest cruise deal. You want the cruise vacation that offers you the most satisfying experience. To learn more about cruising, we invite you read our Cruise FAQ's. Read more about: How to measure cruise service, comfort, dining  and price.

Why use a cruise travel expert?
With all of the discounts, offers and changes in the cruise industry, it's more valuable than ever to find a cruise expert who can guide you, regardless of whether you are shopping for a luxury cruise, a premium cruise or mainstream cruise.

A professional travel agent will save you time, and you may pay less and have a more satisfying cruise vacation! Our cruise experts can help you:

• make the right choice,
• make all the necessary arrangements,
• ensure you are getting the best available pricing,
• offer you exclusive offers on many cruises throughout the world.

Plus, our cruise experts cover all the other bases: pre- or post-cruise city packages, customized shore excursions, private car and driver services, travel insurance to minimize your vacation investment risk, and expert advice. Read about our superior service, lowest price guarantee, and why you should book with us.