What’s Actually Included on a Cruise?
When you book a cruise, it’s easy to assume everything is included—but that’s rarely the case. A cruise inclusions comparison across major lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line helps clarify what’s part of your fare and what will appear as an extra charge once you’re onboard.
Before we compare brands, let’s review what “included” typically means in the cruise world.
Most cruise fares include:
- Your stateroom and housekeeping
- Meals in the main dining rooms and buffet
- Onboard entertainment and activities
- Basic beverages like water, coffee, tea, and juice
- Access to pools, fitness centers, and family programs
Extras can include specialty dining, alcohol, Wi-Fi, spa treatments, gratuities, and shore excursions.
Carnival Cruise Line Inclusions
Carnival’s pricing focuses on value and fun. Your fare includes:
- Stateroom accommodations
- Meals in the buffet, main dining room, and casual eateries
- Standard beverages (water, coffee, tea, lemonade)
- Pools, waterslides, and onboard entertainment
- Youth and teen programs
Extra costs: alcoholic beverages, specialty dining (like the Steakhouse), Wi-Fi, spa services, and gratuities.
💡 Tip: For a closer look at family appeal and value between the big lines, read my post “Carnival vs Royal Caribbean for Families: The Ultimate Budget Cruise Showdown”.
Royal Caribbean Inclusions
Royal Caribbean offers a robust blend of amenities at sea. Your fare includes:
- Your stateroom and daily housekeeping
- Complimentary dining in the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Café, and select grab-and-go spots
- Most onboard entertainment and activities
- Pools, gyms, kids’ and teens’ clubs
Extra costs: specialty dining (Chops Grille, Izumi), alcohol, soda, internet, spa, and excursions. Beverage and dining packages can be pre-purchased for savings.
Royal Caribbean is ideal for travelers who want variety and big-ship excitement without luxury-line prices.
Disney Cruise Line Inclusions
Disney Cruise Line delivers one of the most inclusive mainstream cruise experiences. Your fare covers:
- Rotational dining across themed restaurants
- Soft drinks, coffee, and tea (available at drink stations)
- Broadway-style shows, deck parties, and character meet-and-greets
- Youth clubs and family entertainment
- Room service and soft-serve ice cream
Extra costs: alcoholic beverages, adult-exclusive restaurants, spa services, excursions, and certain premium experiences.
✨ If you’re weighing family-focused options, check out “Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean: Which Is Best for Families?”.
Quick cruise inclusions comparison Chart
| Feature | Carnival | Royal Caribbean | Disney Cruise Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stateroom | ✅ Included | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Main Dining | ✅ Included | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Soft Drinks | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Included |
| Entertainment | ✅ Included | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Kids Clubs | ✅ Included | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Specialty Dining | 💲Extra | 💲Extra | 💲Extra (adult-only) |
| Alcohol | 💲Extra | 💲Extra | 💲Extra |
| Wi-Fi / Spa / Excursions | 💲Extra | 💲Extra | 💲Extra |
| Ideal For | Budget & Fun | Adventure Seekers | Families & Disney Fans |
Planning Tips to Maximize Value
- Pre-plan your extras: Beverage and Wi-Fi packages can often save money if bought before sailing.
- Use a travel advisor: Cruise pricing changes constantly—advisors can monitor promotions and ensure you’re booked under the best fare.
- Compare what matters most: If family entertainment and soft drinks matter, Disney’s inclusions may justify its higher fare. If you’re after nightlife and adult fun, Carnival or Royal might fit better.
- Book early: Early bookings often come with lower fares or onboard credits.
When you’re ready to start planning, you can explore or request a quote through Magic Universe Vacations – General Cruise Vacations Booking to customize the perfect sailing.
Final Thoughts On cruise inclusions comparison
Every cruise line includes your essentials—stateroom, dining, entertainment, and fun—but the extras can make or break your budget. Carnival excels at affordability, Royal Caribbean offers the most onboard variety, and Disney Cruise Line brings unmatched family magic.
A thoughtful cruise inclusions comparison ensures you know what you’re paying for—and helps you find the best value for your vacation style.
