CHARLESTON – November 13, 2026 -- The advertised cruise fare is only one line of the bill, and a HelloNation article lists five kinds of extras that can raise the total. Randy Gardner and Joe Shirley, who own Vacation Inspirations in Charleston, South Carolina, share their first-time cruise planning advice in it.
The five extras are specialty dining, beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities and shore excursions. Gardner and Shirley say travelers should compare what each fare includes, and what costs extra, before booking.
Getting to the ship costs money too. Anyone flying to the departure port faces three more cost lines: airfare, transportation and a hotel. The article says arriving a day early may reduce problems from flight delays.
Gardner and Shirley say many travelers start planning six to twelve months before sailing
That window works out to roughly 26 to 52 weeks. According to the article, booking early may mean more cabin choices, especially in popular travel periods. Last-minute fares may suit flexible travelers, but limited cabin availability and transportation costs can cut the savings.
Cabin and ship choices also move the price. Interior cabins generally cost less than oceanview and balcony cabins, the article says. Larger ships often offer more dining, entertainment and recreation, while smaller ships may be quieter and visit different ports. The article also advises checking cabin location and nearby noise sources.
The article covers four destinations: the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico and the Mediterranean. It gives no price figures for fares or extras.
Before finalizing a reservation, the article advises reviewing identification requirements, cancellation policies, payment deadlines and travel insurance options.