Cruise Planning Guides
Straight-answer guides to the money decisions every first-time cruiser faces: drink packages, Wi-Fi, gratuities, excursions, and staying connected at sea.
Planning your first cruise? These guides break down the money decisions that trip up most first-timers. No fluff, no "it depends on your preferences." Just straight answers backed by current pricing and real-world experience.
Staying Connected at Sea
Should You Buy Cruise Ship Wi-Fi?
Starlink has changed the game. We break down Wi-Fi pricing by cruise line, which tier you actually need, real-world speed tests, and when to skip it entirely.
Read this if: You want internet on your cruise and aren't sure what to buy.
Should You Use Your Cell Phone on a Cruise Ship?
Your phone works at sea, but without a plan you could come home to a $2,000 bill. Carrier cruise plans, eSIM options, port-day strategies, and how to avoid bill shock.
Read this if: You want to call, text, or use data without Wi-Fi apps.
Money Decisions Before You Board
Should You Buy a Cruise Drink Package?
Break-even math by cruise line, the "everyone in the cabin must buy" rule, sea day vs port day patterns, and when the package is a no-brainer (and when it's a waste).
Coming soon
Should You Prepay Gratuities on a Cruise?
Daily auto-gratuity rates by cruise line, how prepaying locks in today's rate, where the money actually goes, and the one scenario where you should wait.
Coming soon
At the Ports
Cruise Line Excursions vs DIY: Which Is Better?
Price comparisons, the "ship won't leave without you" guarantee, easy-DIY ports vs guided-recommended ports, and a decision framework for every stop.
Coming soon
Want These Guides in Your Inbox?
We're adding new cruise planning guides regularly. Subscribe to get them as soon as they publish, plus a weekly roundup of cruise news and deals.