Cruising can be one of the most luxurious adventures you will ever embark on. A cruise world-class service, unlimited fine dining, built-in entertainment, and the chance to experience many places in a floating 5-star resort. But when you are seeking cruise travel deals, there are some hidden gotchas that you need to be aware of in advance. That advertised price of $399 per person for a 5-day Caribbean itinerary sounds like a good cruise travel deal, but is it?

If you’ve never been on a cruise before or never booked one for yourself you may be suprised to know that the fare you ultimately pay for your trip has several components. Often times, advertisements and published fares do not include the hidden extras to appear like cruise travel deals, when in reality they are not a bargain. Here are some things you need to be aware of before you book your next cruise travel deal:

Port Taxes / Fees

This one may not be a surprise to you that they exist, but you may or may not have been quoted a price that included this charge. Port taxes vary widely depending on the ports of call, but for a 7 day cruise you can expect to pay somewhere in the ballpark of $150 to $250 per person. Everyone pays these fees, so you can’t avoid them, just make sure when comparing cruise travel deals that you are looking at the complete cost.

Fuel Surcharge

This charge can also really mix-up the value of your cruise travel deal. As a relatively new invention in the cruise industry, fuel surcharges are not standard. You may not see one at all or your may see one that is $100 or more.

Insurance

Actually, there are two types of insurance I’m referring to here – medical traveler’s insurance and trip insurance. The first covers you for any medical incidence on your voyage which may be a lifesaver if your regular medical coverage does not extend outside the US. Trip insurance, on the other hand is protection against unexpected cancellation to ensure you receive at least a partial refund of prepaid fares. Read the fine print on BOTH of these optional charges, so you are not surprised.

Is That All?

Each of those items above will be charged in advance of your trip, but what about once you are on-board the ship? Everything was prepaid since a cruise includes food and entertainment – right? Well, be sure to check out part two of this article Cruise Travel Deals – 4 More Hidden Costs You Must Know About.

WATCH THE VIDEOS INSTEAD

If you prefer to watch a video version of this information, catch both part 1 and part 2 here:

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