You have booked your cruise and you are excited to begin your ultimate vacation adventure.  What can you expect on your cruise vacation?  What can you do to limit your expenses on the ship?  There are simple things you can do that can really save you money.

First off, it is important to note that soda is not free on a cruise.  If you are a soda drinker, you may appreciate the policy of cruise lines such as Carnival that allow you to bring a 12 pack of soda or bottled water for each person on the cruise as well as a bottle of wine or champagne for each adult 21 and older.  On the Carnival ships, they do require that you bring this on your carry on luggage.  Since it may take a little while to get to your room, you may wish to have a carry on with wheels for easy transport. 

Even though Coca Cola and Sprite are not free on the cruise ship vacations, you will find that choices like lemonade, iced tea, coffee, fruit punch are included and are free.  Alcoholic beverages are available of course at a fee along with a 15% bar gratuity.  Soda cards are available on most ships so if you are a heavy soda drinker, expecting to drink more than 3 soda’s a day, this is a perfect cost saving option for you.

Room service is free on most ships as well and is an often overlooked option.  Families with small children may wish to order breakfast first thing in the morning so when the kids wake up you are set.  Free 24 hour soft serve ice cream is available on all Carnival cruise ships.  This is a yummy treat and more affordable than the pay items available at the coffee restaurants.

Find out which restaurants are included at no cost.  Some specialty restaurants offer additional features but have an extra per person charge.  The new Carnival Breeze for example charges a $35 fee per person for their premium steakhouse.  There are many free options on a cruise ship.  The key is to be aware of what is free and what is included.  This will save you significantly when you are getting ready to pay your sail and sign card at the end of the cruise.

My name is Lynette Henk.  I am a XO Healthy Chocolate member and avid cruiser.  I can be reached directly at 941-216-5727, [email protected] or at my website, ColdPressedChocolate.com

I am currently recruiting high powered members to join our Healthy Chocolate & XoPhoria Skin Care Revolution.