Start here · Essential guide
What's Included on a Cruise: Food, Drinks and Extras
See what a cruise fare usually covers, from main dining and buffets to basic drinks, and which extras cost more, using Royal Caribbean as a worked example.
Booking and Life Onboard
Life Onboard
What is included, dining, WiFi and phones, tenders, muster drills and medical care at sea.
Are Cruise Specialty Restaurants Worth the Extra Cost?
Decide whether cruise specialty restaurants are worth the extra charge, with tips on when to splurge, when to skip, and ways to save with packages.
Are there any free drinks on Royal Caribbean cruises?
Yes, Royal Caribbean includes basic drinks like water, tea, coffee, lemonade and milk. Find out what's free, what costs extra, and which perks may help.
Can You Bring Alcohol on a Cruise? Wine, Corkage and Port Purchases
Many cruise lines allow wine or champagne onboard with corkage fees, but restrict beer and spirits. See policy examples and what happens to port purchases.
Can you switch between devices on Carnival WiFi?
Carnival Wi-Fi plans are generally tied to a device, but many cruisers log out and move a plan between devices. Learn how it works and what to check first.
Does Princess Cruises have laundry service?
Princess Cruises offers laundry and dry-cleaning services onboard, and many ships have self-service laundry rooms. Learn how they work and how to pack lighter.
How do I find out what theme nights are on my cruise?
Find out your cruise's theme nights using the cruise line app, past daily programs, fan groups and forums, plus how to pack when details aren't yet posted.
Is zipline free on Royal Caribbean?
Royal Caribbean's zip line has generally been listed as included in the fare, but rules vary. Learn about restrictions, closures and how to check your ship.
Medical Care on a Cruise Ship: Doctors, Costs and Emergencies
Cruise ships have onboard medical centers staffed around the clock, but care is billed separately. Learn what they treat, what they cost and how to prepare.
Princess Cruises Room Service Menu and Charges
A guide to Princess Cruises room service: what's on the menu, how to order, which items are free, and when a delivery fee may apply.
Starlink at Sea: Is Cruise Ship Internet Finally Fast Enough to Stream?
Starlink has improved cruise ship internet on many ships, but streaming still depends on your ship, plan and how busy the network is. See what to expect.
Themed Cruises: A List by Interest
Browse themed cruises by interest, from music and fandom to food, wellness and holidays, plus how to find sailings and what to expect onboard.
Using Facebook Messenger and Other Apps on a Cruise
Can you use Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp or FaceTime at sea? Learn how messaging works on cruise ship Wi-Fi and how to avoid surprise charges.
Using Your Cell Phone on a Cruise Without Roaming Charges
Learn how to use your phone on a cruise without big roaming bills: airplane mode, ship Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi calling, and settings to check before you sail.
What Is a Cruise Muster Drill and Do You Have to Go?
A muster drill is a required safety briefing held before the ship sails. Learn what happens, how digital muster works, and what if you skip it.
What Is a French Balcony Cabin on a Cruise?
A French balcony is a floor-to-ceiling glass door or window that opens for fresh air but has no outdoor deck. See how it compares with a full balcony.
What Is a Water Shuttle (Tender) on a Cruise Ship?
A tender, or water shuttle, is a small boat that ferries cruise passengers to shore when the ship can't dock. Learn how tenders work and how to prepare.
Which cruise lines have room service?
Nearly every major cruise line offers room service, but fees differ. See which lines include it, which charge, and how to save on delivery costs.
Which Cruise Ships Have a Lazy River?
Very few cruise ships have a true lazy river. Learn why, where cruise lines offer them at private destinations, and which water features ships have instead.
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