Cruise lines use a variety of different pricing models. All of the major cruise lines have recently changed to show the full cost of a cruise including taxes, and port fees.
That was forced by a newly-passed California law that made doing so a legal requirement. In response Royal Caribbean (RCL) , Carnival (CCL) , Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH) , privately-held MSC Cruises, and every other major brand have adopted that policy nationwide.
Related: Royal Caribbean makes a much-requested dining change
Including taxes and fees in the advertised prices helps, but it's not the only challenge facing people booking a cruise. Some cruise lines — including Royal Caribbean and Carnival's namesake brands — offer basic fares as their advertised price.
Those prices include your cabin, some dining options, entertainment, and access to the ship amenities like pools, and waterslides. They do not include drink packages, WiFi, or anything else.
Some cruise lines including Norwegian and sometimes MSC Cruises, advertise more inclusive fares. That can be confusing for customers who see a very low fare and don't realize it does not include any extras. Or it can make a fare seem high when someone does not realize that it includes many add-ons.
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Celebrity president pressed on cruise fares
Celebrity President Laura Hodges Bethge recently did a lengthy Ask Me Anything with Cruise Critic. She was asked about her cruise line's pricing plans.
"Competitors, such as Virgin Voyages, include add-ons like Wi-Fi, tips, and soda in the base price of their fares. Currently, Celebrity Cruises charges separately for these amenities and even raised prices in recent years. Are there any plans to adjust this model and offer a more inclusive pricing structure?" wrote A350flyer.
Hodges Bethge was very open in her answer.
"We have recently adapted our All-Included package offerings to add enhanced flexibility and choice, while still including our guests’ most preferred amenities – Classic Drinks and basic Wi-Fi. This aligns to the evolving needs of our guests, as it allows us the flexibility to express personal appreciation to our amazing crew members by providing tips any way they choose – adding it at the time of booking, or doing it onboard — giving guests more choice," she shared.
Celebrity, owned by Royal Caribbean, does continue to offer traditional basic fares.
"We also offer cruise-only rates, our lowest available fares that include our world-class amenities like accommodation, dining, entertainment, onboard activities, and much more," she added.
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Celebrity also plans new ships
In addition to being pressed on pricing, Hodges Bethge was also pressed about her cruise line's future plans.
"With two of the three Galapagos ships removed from service, and with the last of the E-class ships now under construction, can you please talk about the future including the next series of Celebrity Cruises ship designs?" asked the aptly-named Celebrity Cruiser.
Celebrity's president was a bit more vague in answering this question.
"We are constantly dreaming up new classes of ships and new experiences for our guests. The fifth ship in the Edge series, Celebrity Xcel, will debut in 2025. And while I can’t tell you everything, I can share that it will include several brand-new experiences that we are so excited about. So, stay tuned," she wrote.
ALSO READ: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your cruise
The questioner also asked about the possibility of more longer sailings being offered.
"We are constantly evaluating our itineraries and strive to provide a variety of options for our guests to make sure we have something for everyone. While we continue to offer a variety of 14+ night itineraries visiting remarkable destinations including Australia, India, Japan, Fiji, and the Panama Canal — we will certainly take this feedback to the team to evaluate further options," Hodges Bethge added.
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