Are Any Cruise Lines All Inclusive Find Out Here

Yes, several cruise lines offer truly all-inclusive experiences, covering drinks, gratuities, dining, and even excursions. Luxury brands like Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, and Silversea stand out by including premium amenities that most mainstream lines charge extra for. Choosing an all-inclusive cruise can simplify your vacation and often saves money in the long run.

Key Takeaways

• Not all-inclusive: Most cruise lines charge extra for drinks, tips, and specialty dining.
• Luxury lines lead: Regent, Seabourn, and Silversea offer true all-inclusive experiences.
• Premium packages: Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer add-ons for near all-inclusive value.
• Read fine print: Check what’s included—alcohol, excursions, and Wi-Fi vary widely.
• Cost comparison: Upfront all-inclusive pricing may save money long-term vs. à la carte.
• Look for deals: Limited-time promotions often include free perks like drink packages.

Understanding All-Inclusive Cruises: What You Need to Know

When planning a vacation, the term all-inclusive often conjures images of luxury resorts where everything from meals and drinks to activities and entertainment is covered under one price. However, when it comes to cruising, the concept of all-inclusiveness is more nuanced. Unlike land-based resorts, most cruise lines operate on a semi-inclusive model, where the base fare covers accommodations, standard dining, and basic entertainment, while extras like alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa services, and gratuities are charged separately. This raises the critical question: Are any cruise lines all inclusive?

The short answer is yes—but with important distinctions. While no cruise line offers a truly everything-included package in the same way as, say, a Sandals resort, several premium and luxury lines have evolved to offer highly inclusive experiences. These brands have redefined the cruise experience by incorporating most, if not all, of the extras into their base fare. For travelers seeking a stress-free, no-surprises vacation, understanding which cruise lines offer all-inclusive (or near-all-inclusive) packages can make a significant difference in both budgeting and overall satisfaction. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the landscape of all-inclusive cruising, identify the top cruise lines that offer inclusive packages, break down what’s typically covered, and provide practical tips to help you choose the best option for your next voyage.

What Does “All-Inclusive” Really Mean on a Cruise?

The Standard Cruise Fare: What’s Usually Included

Before diving into all-inclusive options, it’s essential to understand what a standard cruise fare typically covers. Most mainstream cruise lines—such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian—include the following in their base price:

• Accommodations: Your stateroom, including housekeeping services.
• Main Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the main dining rooms and buffet areas.
• Basic Beverages: Water, coffee, tea, and select juices (often at breakfast).
• Entertainment: Live shows, movies, and onboard activities like trivia and poolside games.
• Fitness Center Access: Use of the gym, jogging track, and basic fitness classes.
• Children’s Programs: Supervised activities for kids and teens (on family-friendly lines).

However, most extras are not included. Guests are expected to pay additional fees for:

• Alcoholic drinks and premium beverages
• Specialty restaurants (e.g., steakhouses, Italian, Asian fusion)
• Shore excursions and guided tours
• Spa and salon services
• Internet access (Wi-Fi packages)
• Gratuities (often automatically added as a daily fee)
• Gambling, arcade games, and premium entertainment

The Spectrum of Inclusivity: From Semi to Fully Inclusive

True all-inclusive cruising exists on a spectrum. At one end are mainstream lines with minimal inclusions. In the middle are premium lines that offer packages (like drink or dining plans) for an extra fee. At the high end are luxury and ultra-luxury lines where the base fare includes nearly everything. For example:

• Semi-inclusive: Carnival Cruise Line – base fare covers basics; extras cost extra.
• Premium with add-ons: Princess Cruises – offers a “Princess Plus” package for drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
• All-inclusive (base fare): Regent Seven Seas Cruises – includes airfare, drinks, specialty dining, gratuities, and shore excursions.

The key differentiator is whether these extras are bundled into the initial price or require additional payment. All-inclusive cruise lines eliminate the need for onboard spending, making them ideal for travelers who want predictability and luxury without nickel-and-diming.

Why Inclusivity Matters: The Value Proposition

For many travelers, the appeal of all-inclusive cruising lies in value transparency. When everything is included, you avoid the stress of budgeting for daily expenses. For instance, a 7-night cruise on a mainstream line might cost $1,500 per person, but with $100/day in drink packages, $200 in specialty dining, $300 in gratuities, and $500 in excursions, the total can easily exceed $3,000. In contrast, an all-inclusive line like Seabourn might quote $4,000 per person—but that includes all the above. For some, the higher upfront cost is justified by the peace of mind and elevated experience.

Top All-Inclusive Cruise Lines: Who Offers the Most Inclusions?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises – The Gold Standard of Inclusivity

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is widely regarded as the leader in all-inclusive luxury cruising. Their “Free Luxury” promise means that the base fare includes:

• Round-trip airfare from major U.S. and Canadian cities (with business class upgrades available)
• Unlimited premium beverages (including fine wines, spirits, and cocktails)
• All dining venues (no specialty restaurant surcharges)
• Shore excursions in every port (typically one per day, with premium options available)
• Gratuities (prepaid and included)
• Wi-Fi (unlimited access)
• Pre-paid gratuities and in-suite mini-bars (stocked daily)

For example, a 10-night Caribbean cruise on the Seven Seas Mariner might start at $7,500 per person, but this includes airfare from New York, a $1,500 excursion credit, and all drinks and dining. Regent’s small ships (typically 700–750 passengers) ensure personalized service and access to smaller ports, enhancing the luxury experience.

Seabourn – Luxury with a Personal Touch

Seabourn Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation’s luxury portfolio, offers a similarly inclusive experience with a focus on intimacy and adventure. Key inclusions:

• All drinks (premium wines, spirits, cocktails, and specialty coffees)
• All dining (including Seabourn’s signature “Restaurant 2” for fine dining)
• Gratuities (pre-paid and included)
• Wi-Fi (complimentary for all guests)
• Water sports platform (on select ships, for kayaking, paddleboarding, etc.)
• Shore excursions (complimentary on select itineraries; others available at a discount)

Seabourn’s Expedition Cruises (on the Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit) take inclusivity further by offering expedition gear (e.g., parkas, binoculars) and complimentary Zodiac landings in remote destinations like Antarctica and the Galápagos. A 12-night Antarctic cruise starts at around $12,000 per person, but includes all gear, excursions, and even a pre-cruise hotel night.

Crystal Cruises – Reimagined Luxury with Full Inclusivity

After a brief closure in 2022, Crystal Cruises was relaunched under new ownership with a renewed focus on all-inclusive luxury. The new Crystal (formerly Serenity) and Crystal Symphony now include:

• All beverages (including premium brands)
• All dining (no specialty restaurant fees)
• Gratuities (included)
• Wi-Fi (unlimited)
• Shore excursions (one complimentary per port; others at reduced rates)
• Fitness classes (Pilates, yoga, etc.)
• Spa access (complimentary use of saunas, steam rooms, and thermal lounges)

Crystal’s “All-Inclusive, All the Time” model targets travelers who value cultural immersion, with itineraries that include overnight stays in ports for deeper exploration. A 14-night Mediterranean cruise might start at $8,000 per person, with all extras included.

Silversea – Intimate Ships, Global Reach

Silversea Cruises, known for its ultra-luxury small ships (100–300 passengers), offers a near-all-inclusive experience with a few exceptions. Inclusions:

• All drinks (premium wines, spirits, cocktails, and in-room mini-bar)
• All dining (no specialty restaurant charges)
• Gratuities (pre-paid)
• Wi-Fi (unlimited)
• Shore excursions (complimentary on most itineraries; some remote destinations have additional fees)
• Butler service (in all suites)

Silversea’s “All-Inclusive Luxury” model shines on expedition voyages, where guests enjoy complimentary expedition gear and Zodiac tours. A 16-night Arctic cruise starts at $18,000 per person, but includes all gear, excursions, and even a pre-cruise hotel night in Oslo.

Oceania Cruises – Gourmet Focus with Inclusive Perks

Oceania Cruises blends luxury with a culinary emphasis. While not fully all-inclusive, their “Simply More” package (included in most fares) adds significant value:

• Airfare (round-trip, economy class, from select cities)
• Wi-Fi (unlimited)
• Gratuities (pre-paid)
• Shore excursions (one complimentary per port)
• Premium beverages (included in the package)
• Specialty dining (no cover charges)

Oceania’s ships, like the Insignia and Nautica, feature open-seating dining and a focus on destination immersion. A 7-night Alaska cruise with the “Simply More” package starts at $3,500 per person—including airfare from Seattle.

What’s Typically Included (and Excluded) on All-Inclusive Cruises

The “Big 5” Inclusions: What You Can Expect

While each all-inclusive cruise line has unique offerings, most cover these five key areas in their base fare:

1. Accommodations: All staterooms and suites, often with butler service.
2. All Dining: No extra fees for specialty restaurants, room service, or late-night snacks.
3. All Beverages: Premium drinks, including top-shelf liquor, fine wines, and craft cocktails.
4. Gratuities: Pre-paid and included, eliminating the need for onboard tipping.
5. Shore Excursions: At least one complimentary excursion per port; some lines offer more.

Additional common inclusions:

• Wi-Fi (unlimited or high-speed)
• Airfare (on select lines)
• Spa access (thermal lounges, saunas)
• Fitness classes and wellness programs
• Water sports (on expedition ships)

What’s Usually Not Included (The Fine Print)

Even on all-inclusive cruises, a few items are typically excluded:

• Airfare upgrades: Business or first-class flights (Regent includes economy; upgrades cost extra).
• Premium excursions: High-adrenaline or exclusive tours (e.g., private yacht charters, helicopter rides).
• Spa treatments: Massages, facials, and salon services (though access to thermal lounges is often free).
• Gambling: Casino play is never included.
• Retail purchases: Souvenirs, clothing, and onboard shopping.
• Medical services: Doctor visits, prescriptions, and specialized treatments.

Pro Tip: Always read the line’s “Inclusions” page carefully. For example, Regent’s shore excursions are “complimentary,” but optional premium tours (e.g., a private wine tasting in Tuscany) require payment.

Hidden Costs: When “All-Inclusive” Isn’t Fully Inclusive

Some lines use the term “all-inclusive” loosely. For instance:

• “Beverage packages”: A line might include “unlimited drinks,” but only up to a $15 drink limit (e.g., $20 cocktails cost extra).
• “Complimentary excursions”: One free tour per port, but additional tours cost $100–$300 each.
• “Wi-Fi”: “Unlimited” may mean 1GB/day for basic browsing, not streaming.

To avoid surprises, ask: “Is there a spending limit or cap on any inclusions?” and “Are there any exceptions to the all-inclusive promise?”

All-Inclusive vs. Mainstream: Cost Comparison and Value Analysis

Price Breakdown: A Side-by-Side Example

Let’s compare a 7-night Caribbean cruise for two adults on a mainstream line (e.g., Royal Caribbean) versus an all-inclusive line (e.g., Regent Seven Seas):

Expense	Mainstream (Royal Caribbean)	All-Inclusive (Regent)
Base Fare (per person)	$1,500	$6,000
Alcoholic Drinks (7-day package)	$700 ($100/day)	Included
Specialty Dining (3 meals)	$150 ($50/meal)	Included
Gratuities (pre-paid)	$200 ($28.50/day)	Included
Wi-Fi (unlimited)	$200 ($30/day)	Included
Shore Excursions (3 tours)	$600 ($200/tour)	Included
Airfare (from NYC)	$800	Included
Total	$4,150	$6,000

While the Regent cruise costs $1,850 more upfront, it includes $2,650 in extras that the mainstream line charges separately. For travelers who plan to use these services, Regent offers better value. However, if you rarely drink, skip excursions, or bring your own Wi-Fi, the mainstream option might be cheaper.

When All-Inclusive Makes Sense (And When It Doesn’t)

Choose all-inclusive if:

• You value predictability and hate surprise bills.
• You plan to drink, dine out, and take excursions regularly.
• You prefer small-ship luxury and personalized service.
• You’re a frequent cruiser and want to maximize perks.

Stick with mainstream if:

• You’re on a tight budget and want to control spending.
• You’re a light drinker or don’t use many onboard services.
• You prioritize large ships with family-friendly activities.
• You’re booking a last-minute deal (all-inclusive lines rarely discount heavily).

Tips for Choosing the Right All-Inclusive Cruise Line

Assess Your Travel Style and Priorities

Ask yourself:

• Do I want adventure or relaxation? Expedition lines like Seabourn and Silversea include water sports and Zodiac tours.
• How important is dining? Oceania and Regent excel in gourmet cuisine.
• Do I need airfare included? Regent and Oceania offer it; others require booking separately.
• What’s my ideal ship size? Luxury lines have smaller ships (300–750 guests) for intimacy.

Read Reviews and Compare Itineraries

Use platforms like Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor to read guest reviews. Pay attention to:

• Service quality (e.g., “butler was attentive” or “excursions were rushed”).
• Food quality (e.g., “specialty restaurants were worth it”).
• Excursion value (e.g., “free tour was basic; paid one was amazing”).

Compare itineraries: Regent’s Caribbean cruises include St. Barts and St. Martin; Seabourn offers more off-the-beaten-path ports like Dominica.

Book Early and Look for Promotions

All-inclusive lines often sell out quickly. Book 12–18 months in advance for the best rates and cabin selection. Watch for:

• Early booking discounts: 10–15% off for bookings made 12+ months ahead.
• Suite upgrades: Complimentary upgrades from balcony to suite (e.g., Crystal’s “Suite Upgrade” promotion).
• Onboard credits: $500–$1,000 to spend on spa or excursions (common with travel agents).

Conclusion: The Future of All-Inclusive Cruising

So, are any cruise lines all inclusive? Absolutely—but with nuance. While no cruise line includes everything (gambling, retail, and medical services remain extras), luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Crystal, Silversea, and Oceania have redefined inclusivity by bundling airfare, drinks, dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and excursions into their base fare. For travelers seeking a seamless, luxurious experience without the stress of onboard spending, these lines deliver exceptional value.

The key is understanding your priorities. If you crave adventure, gourmet dining, and personalized service, an all-inclusive cruise is worth the higher upfront cost. If you’re budget-conscious or prefer large ships with family-friendly activities, a mainstream line with add-on packages may be better. As the cruise industry evolves, expect more lines to adopt hybrid models—offering “all-inclusive” tiers while retaining à la carte options for flexibility. Whether you’re sailing the Caribbean, exploring Antarctica, or island-hopping in the Mediterranean, the right all-inclusive cruise can turn your vacation into a truly stress-free, unforgettable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any cruise lines all inclusive for food and drinks?

Yes, several cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, and Viking offer truly all-inclusive packages that cover premium dining, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks. These brands include high-end perks like specialty restaurants and unlimited drinks in their base fares.

Which cruise lines are all inclusive with gratuities and excursions?

Luxury lines such as Silversea, Seabourn, and Crystal Cruises include gratuities, shore excursions, and even Wi-Fi in their all-inclusive pricing. This makes them ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free, premium experience.

Do any mainstream cruise lines offer all inclusive options?

Mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line aren’t fully all inclusive but offer add-on packages for drinks, dining, and Wi-Fi. For a fully inclusive experience, you’ll want to consider luxury or premium brands instead.

Are any cruise lines all inclusive for families?

Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas are all inclusive and family-friendly, with kids’ programs and inclusive amenities. However, most all-inclusive lines cater more to adults, so check age policies before booking.

What does “all inclusive” mean on a cruise line?

An all-inclusive cruise line typically covers accommodations, meals, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), gratuities, and often Wi-Fi or excursions. The exact inclusions vary by brand, so always review the fine print.

Is it worth booking an all inclusive cruise line?

If you value convenience and predictable pricing, an all inclusive cruise line can save you money on extras like drinks and specialty dining. They’re especially worthwhile for luxury travelers who want a seamless, high-end vacation.