So, here's my take on cruise package holidays: are they really budget-friendly, or is it just another slick marketing trick? I've been traveling on a tight budget for decades, and the term "package holiday" for cruises seems to gloss over the hidden fees and extra costs that add up quickly. Sure, the idea of having the ship, meals, and entertainment "all in one" appears convenient, but how much genuine savings are we really getting compared to piecing together on-shore deals?
I've seen stories of travelers paying extra for almost every little thing once onboard – from specialty dining to even a decent drink. Has anyone done the legwork to compare the advertised “package deal” with what you'd end up paying if you organized your own trip (or even opted for short local trips)? And what about the quality and variety of on-board experiences, which sometimes feel a bit one-size-fits-all and overly commercialized?
It seems to me that cruise packages are more about locking you into a controlled environment where you end up spending more on extras rather than utter savings. Am I missing something here, or is budget cruising really just another illusion? Would love to hear experiences from long-time travelers out there who can speak to whether this trend is as beneficial as it's made out to be.