Once you are on a cruise, how much does everything cost?

Question

We are going on a cruise to Cabo, Catelina Island and Ensenada mexico...my first question is...once we are on the cruise, what do my expenses look like? Is food covered? If so...how much food is covered? How does it work? I have never been on a cruise before.

What about shows and things of that sort? Do those cost?

Do you have to tip when you get the food?

If I am spending 400 per person on this cruise, how much am I going to spend ON the boat?

Also, do you need a passport to go to those places on a cruise? Please help! we are booking it soon and would like to know how much we are looking at here.

Answer 1

Below is a link to the passport rules.  You don't need one until June 2009.  You must have your birth certificate and photo ID (driver's license) when traveling to Mexico.

As for the cruise:

When you pay the $400 per person, that includes the meals (unless you dine at a specialty restaurant on board that charges extra) and shows.  You must purchase your own soda & cocktails.  When you go on the ship, you will give them your credit card #, and they will give you a swipe card that acts as your room key.  You also use this card when you buy something on the ship, and at the end of the cruise your credit card will be charged for what you bought (drinks, gift shop purchases, specialty services, etc.)  The tips are already included when you buy a drink.  At the end of the cruise, it is customary to tip your waiter, the waiter's assistant, your room attendant, and anyone else who waits on you regularly.  When you book the cruise, you'll get a big booklet with a lot of information in it.  Read it before you go.  Have fun!

Answer 2

Many cruises offer the food and shows already included in the price.

I would probably go with that so there are no surprises once you are in it.

I would suggest you bring your American passport anytime you are going out the country. Mexico is not very picky on that but the US is and with no passport you risk having to sit around waiting for them to verify that you are in fact an American Citizen.

Good luck and have fun in your trip.

Answer 3

ALOT. If you don't have "all inclusive" bring a big credit card.

Answer 4

if its all inclusive - free

Answer 5

Depends on the cruise line you're on.  Usually a percentage or a set amount is billed to your tab daily to cover tips.  Something like $10 per day.    Food is usually included, but alcohol and pop they usually charge you for.  

Remember that your excursions for each place will cost u $$, along with some activities on the cruise (e.g. casino).  I'm guessing that you'll be departing out of a port somewhere in the states like Ft. Lauderdale or something, and the U.S requires a passport, so it should cover your visits to those places.  However, to be safe, I'd check each of the destination places to determine whether or not you require a Visa.

Again, all this information is highly dependent on the cruise line.  You should check the cruise line website along with some cruise forums.  

A couple of great forums for cruises:  USA Today and Cruisecritic.

Hope that helps - enjoy your cruise!