Cruise ship passengers offer savvy spending advice
Many cruise ship passengers have shared their insights into what not to spend money on while at sea. While a cruise may encompass various amenities within its package, there are additional expenditures that could catch travellers off guard. Eat Sleep Cruise, a popular YouTube channel, reached out to its followers and compiled a list of the top items to avoid splurging on during a cruise. One of the primary pointers was discouraging passengers from investing in onboard photos, considering most travellers possess their own means of capturing memories through personal devices. Similarly, onboard art galleries and auctions were highlighted as potential money traps. The investigation unveiled that numerous artworks sold on cruises are essentially prints with added brush strokes to provide a sense of authenticity, often marked up by 50 to 100%. This practice has, at times, prompted discontented buyers to pursue legal action against cruise lines or auctioneers due to inflated values. Moreover, cases of unwittingly acquiring counterfeit art have also surfaced, although some individuals managed to secure refunds without resorting to litigation.
Furthermore, salon and spa services on cruise ships were identified as overpriced compared to similar services on land. Despite ships offering a range of spa facilities, including sun decks, saunas, and pools, the costs tend to carry a substantial premium. Gambling onboard was another notable expense pointed out by several passengers, warning of the allure of cruise ship entertainment potentially leading to significant losses. Casinos on these vessels serve as significant revenue streams for cruise lines, with bingo also attracting expenditure from guests. According to Cruzely, cruise ship casinos often provide lower payouts compared to traditional casinos, with games like Blackjack tipping the scales towards unfavourable rates. It’s worth noting that the atmosphere and excitement on a cruise can sometimes incite guests to spend more on such activities.
Additionally, services such as salon treatments and spa sessions were pointed out to be much costlier on cruise ships than on land. Some passengers compared the surcharges imposed on these services to the prices at mainland spas and found them to be significantly higher. The allure of onboard casinos and the fun-filled experience of cruising can sometimes lead to guests overspending on gambling activities. Cruise ship casinos are known for having lower payout rates compared to traditional casinos on land, which can potentially result in guests parting with more money than they initially planned. Bingo was also highlighted as a popular gambling option on cruise ships, contributing to the onboard entertainment offerings that can quickly escalate expenses for guests. It’s advisable for passengers to be cautious and budget-conscious when engaging in such activities to avoid overspending and ensure a financially prudent cruise experience.
Ultimately, these insights from experienced cruise passengers shed light on some of the common financial pitfalls to watch out for while at sea. By being mindful of where they spend their money, travellers can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses during their voyage. The shared tips aim to empower future cruisers to navigate the onboard offerings wisely, ensuring a more enjoyable and financially sound journey. Whether it’s refraining from pricey art purchases, spa treatments, or excessive gambling, these recommendations serve as a practical guide for cruisers looking to make the most of their cruise experience without breaking the bank.