Expert: Linda - 9/17/2007

Question
Hi, this is my first cruise and I have a few questions. First one is, how much do alcoholic beverages cost? I know the vary, but are they similar to bar prices or are they discounted since you have paid for the cruise. Also, is there anything else other than shopping that I should bring money for?

Answer
John, I guess it depends on where you come from what the bar prices are on the ship.  $5.50 for most, beer cheaper, wine $4.75, drink specials usually $4.00 to $5.00.  So if you come from NY or Calif, they're cheap.

Depends on your cruise line on the money.  You do need your tip money for the room steward, waiter etc, but MOST cruise lines allow you to put it on your sail and sign card (check your brochure).  You'll need money to gamble, if you gamble, shopping and if you take any tours outside of the cruiseline.  For instance if you go to St. Thomas, you can get a guide not with the cruise lines, you'd need to pay he/she in cash.  Tips for your porters that take the luggage from car or walkway onto the ship, also porters when you get off (WELL worth the $1.00-$2.00 per bag),  We also tip our cabin steward $20 in cash on the first night and if we find a bartender we really like, we'll leave money each day in addition to the 15% they put on as a gratuity.  Other than the above, all else is on your sign n sail card or whatever the cruiseline is calling it.

Ask away if you have any other questions.  Enjoy your cruise

Linda