Technically, on the all-inclusive lines, you could go the entire trip without opening your wallet at all! Spending anything after embarkation is up to you, as the only things not included on any cruise line would be shopping, souvenirs, spa treatments and casino gambling.

Yes, it is entirely possible to go on a cruise in 2026 and not spend a single extra cent beyond your initial fare and the mandatory daily gratuities. Your base fare includes your accommodation, 24-hour access to food (at the buffet, main dining room, and various cafes), basic beverages like tap water, tea, and lemonade, and almost all onboard entertainment and fitness facilities. To achieve a "$0.00" final bill, you must resist the "up-sell" of specialty restaurants, ignore the photo gallery, and stick to the free activities like the pool, trivia, and evening theater shows. For shore excursions, you can simply walk off the ship and explore the port on foot for free rather than booking a $150 guided tour. While most cruisers end up spending on Wi-Fi or a soda, a disciplined traveler can enjoy a high-quality vacation by simply utilizing the vast "all-inclusive" features that are already part of the modern cruise package.