Top 7+ surprising things I learned when I booked my first cruise
While there are many included meals and activities on cruise ships, excursions and some restaurants and amenities cost extra.
I was previously under the impression that cruises were all-inclusive.
But while some restaurants and activities were included in the room price, like the buffet and waterslides, spa treatments, port excursions, and select restaurants on the ship cost extra.
Some rooms on cruise ships don't have windows.
When booking my Royal Caribbean cruise, I noticed that the least expensive room option had no windows. I couldn't imagine living without a window for a week. Luckily, my room had a small one.
You can add gratuity during the booking process.
When I was getting ready to purchase my cruise, I noticed I could add gratuity in advance. I went for it and thought it made my trip easier.
Once you're booked, you can reserve food on the ship and excursions at each port.
As soon as I received my confirmation email for my booking, I learned that I already had the option of planning out my whole trip, from restaurant reservations to excursions. I booked excursions in advance, so I had one less thing to worry about once on board.
