What are the costs of traveling on a cruise, which are mandatory, and which are optional?

When traveling on a cruise, the expenses can typically be categorized as follows:

Mandatory Costs:

1. Cruise Fare: This is the basic cost of taking the cruise, which usually includes your accommodation, meals, and basic entertainment. The fare varies depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and cabin type.
2. Port Taxes and Fees: These are taxes and fees charged by the ports, usually added to your total bill.
3. Gratuities: Many cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities to your bill to cover service staff. The standard rate varies but is typically between $10-15 per person per day.

Optional Costs:

1. Shore Excursions: When the cruise stops at different ports, you can choose to participate in various shore excursions like city tours, museum visits, outdoor adventures, etc. These activities usually require additional fees.
2. Specialty Dining: While basic meals are included in the cruise fare, some specialty and fine dining restaurants typically require extra charges.
3. Beverage Packages: Most cruises do not include alcoholic drinks and some premium beverages in the basic fare. You can choose to purchase beverage packages for a wider selection of drinks.
4. Entertainment Activities: Certain special entertainment activities, such as spa services, fitness classes, and cooking classes, may require extra fees.
5. Internet Fees: Onboard Wi-Fi usually comes with a cost, and the rates vary by cruise line.
6. Shopping: There are duty-free shops on the ship, and shopping is an additional expense.
7. Photos and Souvenirs: Professional photographers on the cruise take photos during activities, and purchasing these photos and souvenirs typically requires additional payment.
8. Medical Expenses: There is a medical center on board, and using medical services may incur extra charges.