Food and beverages As part of the cruise price, there is always complimentary food of many types and flavors. Drinks included are tap water, some juices and iced tea on most lines; everything else typically costs extra. Coffee and tea are complimentary, but you'll need to pay for specialty coffee beverages.

On most cruises in 2026, you do not have to pay extra for your primary meals, as the cost is included in your base fare. This "free" food is available at the Main Dining Room (where you get multi-course service), the massive all-day buffet, and various casual "grab-and-go" spots like poolside pizza windows or grill stations. However, nearly every modern ship also features "Specialty Dining"—premium restaurants like steakhouses, sushi bars, or French bistros—that carry a cover charge ranging from $25 to $95 per person. Additionally, certain "luxury" items on the main dining room menu, like a whole lobster or a premium cut of steak, might incur an extra fee. While you can easily go an entire week without spending a cent on food by sticking to the included venues, many travelers budget for at least one specialty dinner to enjoy a more intimate and elevated culinary experience that goes beyond the standard included fare.