Planning a cruise brings many questions about money and budget. You want to know the total price before you book your cabin. A 1-week cruise costs change based on the ship and the time of year. Most travelers spend between $400* and $1,500* per person to book a cruise trip. This price usually covers your room, food, and basic drinks on the ship.
You must look at the 1-week cruise cost as a starting point for your budget. Some ships charge more for luxury features and special dining. A 7-day cruise price often includes shows and pools for all guests. You will pay extra for soda, alcohol, and trips on land. These hidden fees can make the total bill much higher than the base price.
Many people ask how much a 1-week cruise does costs when they see cheap ads online. These low prices often do not include taxes or port fees. You should add $100* to $200* for these extra charges. A weekly cruise price looks better when you know what stays free. You get a bed, meals in the main hall, and gym access.
1 Week Cruise Cost and Budget Planning
The 1-week cruise cost depends mostly on when you decide to sail. Summer months and school holidays cost the most money for families. You will find the lowest 1-week cruise cost in September or January. These dates offer smaller crowds and better deals on big ships. Checking prices early helps you save hundreds of dollars on your upcoming cruise booking.
Your 1-week cruise cost stays low if you choose a shorter route near home. Longer trips to distant islands require more fuel and staff. This increases the total bill for every passenger on the cruise. You should compare different lines to find the best 1-week cruise cost. Each company has its own way of pricing rooms and activities.
Average 7-Day Cruise Cost for Different Cabins
The average cruise cost for 7 days changes based on the room you pick. Inside cabins have no windows and offer the cheapest rates for guests. You save money but lose natural light during your ocean trip. These rooms work well for people who only sleep in their cabins. The average cruise costs 7 days for an inside room is about $650*.
Oceanview rooms have a window or a porthole to see the waves. This adds about $150* to your average cruise cost for 7 days. You can check the weather and see the sun from your bed. These rooms feel larger than the inside cabins because of the view. Many travelers find this a good middle ground for their vacation budget.
Balcony rooms are the most popular choice for modern sea travelers. You get a private outdoor space to sit and breathe fresh air. This increases the average cruise cost for 7 days to around $1,100* or more. You can eat breakfast on your balcony while the ship enters a new port. The extra price provides a much better experience for couples.
7-Day Cruise Price by Destination
The average cruise cost for 7 days varies significantly depending on where you sail. While a Caribbean itinerary is often the most budget-friendly due to the high volume of ships, destinations like Alaska or the Mediterranean carry a higher premium for their unique scenery and port expenses.
Below is an in-depth breakdown of 7-day cruise prices across the most popular global destinations.
Caribbean (Eastern, Western, & Southern)
The Caribbean is the king of the weekly cruise price market. Because so many ships depart from Florida, Texas, and Puerto Rico, competition keeps the 7-day cruise price lower than almost anywhere else.
- Average Base Price: $550* – $1,200* per person.
- Budget Insights: Western Caribbean routes (Mexico, Belize, Honduras) are typically the cheapest. Eastern Caribbean routes (U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Maarten) are mid-range, while Southern Caribbean routes (Aruba, Curacao) cost more due to longer travel distances.
- Peak Season: December through April (Expect a 20-30% price hike).
- Value Play: Sail in September or October (Hurricane Season) for the absolute lowest 1-week cruise cost, often starting under $500*.
Alaska (Inside Passage & Gulf of Alaska)
An Alaska cruise costs more because the sailing season is short (May to September). You aren't just paying for the ship; you are paying for the "glacier frontier" experience.
- Average Base Price: $800* – $1,600* per person.
- Budget Insights: Early May and late September offer "shoulder season" deals where prices can drop to $600. However, July and August are prime for whale watching and carry the highest average cruise cost for 7 days.
- Hidden Costs: Shore excursions in Alaska are among the most expensive in the world. A helicopter glacier tour can easily add $500* to your cruise vacation cost.
Mediterranean (Europe)
The 7-day cruise price in Europe fluctuates based on the departure port. Sailing from Barcelona or Rome provides a classic experience, while Greek Isle cruises are currently in high demand.
- Average Base Price: $900* – $1,800* per person.
- Budget Insights: While the base fare is moderate, your total cruise cost per week will be higher due to international flights and expensive port-side meals.
- Port Differences: Western Med (Spain/France/Italy) is generally more affordable than Eastern Med (Greece/Turkey/Croatia) because the ships are often larger and have more cabin inventory.
Mexican Riviera
Leaving from Los Angeles or San Diego, this route is the West Coast version of the Caribbean. It offers a very stable weekly cruise price for travelers in California and the Pacific Northwest.
- Average Base Price: $600* – $1,100* per person.
- Budget Insights: These cruises visit Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. Because these are "short-haul" ports for the ships, the 7-day cruise price remains very competitive year-round.
- Value Play: Look for 5-day or 6-day "short" cruises if you want to experience the Riviera for under $500*.
Hawaii (Inter-Island)
Hawaii is unique because only one major ship (NCL’s Pride of America) sails a 7-day inter-island route year-round without requiring a long journey from the mainland.
- Average Base Price: $1,200* – $2,200* per person.
- Budget Insights: This is one of the most expensive average cruise costs for 7-day options. Since the ship is U.S.-flagged, labor costs are higher, which is reflected in your fare.
- Alternative: You can find 15-day "roundtrip" cruises from California to Hawaii for a similar price, but you spend 8-10 days at sea.
One Week Cruise Pricing by Passenger Type
When budgeting for a 1-week cruise cost, your passenger profile is the most significant variable. Cruise lines prioritize "double occupancy," which means the price you see in an advertisement is rarely the final amount you pay if you are traveling alone or as a family.
Solo Travelers
Solo cruising has evolved from a niche market to a major trend in 2026. Historically, independent travelers faced a "single supplement" that could double their 7-day cruise price. Today,Cruise lines like Norwegian and Virgin Voyages offer dedicated studio cabins for one. If you book a standard cabin, expect a surcharge of 150% to 200%, but choosing solo-specific rooms can keep your weekly cruise price near $1,100*.
Couples
Couples remain the standard for the industry and usually enjoy the most straightforward cruise vacation cost. Most promotions, such as "Buy One Get One" or "60% off the second guest," are optimized for two adults. A standard balcony room for a couple typically ranges from $1,800* to $3,200* in total. This is often the most cost-effective way to sail, as you split the cabin cost and port fees equally.
Families (3-4+ Guests)
For families, the average cruise cost for 7 days depends on how many people share a cabin. Most Cruise lines offer deep discounts for the third and fourth guests, with some 2025 "Kids Sail Free" deals only requiring you to pay taxes. While a family of four might see a base fare under $4,000, remember that mandatory daily gratuities ($16*–$20* per person) apply to every guest, including children.
Luxury & Suite Groups
Travelers seeking the "ship-within-a-ship" experience pay a premium 1-week cruise cost that often starts at $3,000* per person. While the upfront price for a suite is high, it typically bundles many extras like alcohol, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining that other passengers pay for separately. For those prioritizing space and concierge service, this can represent a better overall value than booking multiple standard cabins.
Group Travelers
Booking as a group (8+ cabins) can unlock "Tour Conductor" credits, often resulting in one free berth for every 16 passengers. This makes the average cruise cost 7 days much lower for reunions or weddings. Groups often receive private cocktail parties or onboard credit as a bonus. It is a smart way to manage the cruise cost per week while ensuring everyone in the party receives the same perks.
What Is the Average Cost of a Cruise for 2 People?
All-inclusive cruise packages for two people can vary based on factors such as cruise line, duration, cabin type, and destination. The average price for a seven-day cruise is around $1,500 per person, totaling $3,000 for a couple. It's essential to note that this is a general estimate, and actual costs may differ.
Additionally, guests often spend extra on onboard expenses such as drinks, excursions, specialty dining, and gratuities. On average, guests may spend around $680* on these extras, adding $1,360* for a couple.
Factors influencing costs include:
- The cruise line's reputation
- The ship's amenities
- The chosen cabin category (inside, oceanview, balcony, or suite)
- The cruise itinerary
Luxury cruise lines and longer itineraries tend to have higher costs. It's advisable to check with specific cruise lines, travel agencies, or online platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing based on individual preferences and requirements.
What is Included in the Base Fare
The base fare is designed to cover your "survival" and basic entertainment on the ship. You could technically go the entire week without spending another dime if you stick strictly to these amenities.
- Your Stateroom: A private cabin with daily housekeeping, fresh linens, and basic toiletries (soap/shampoo).
- Full Board Dining: Unlimited meals at the ship’s buffet and multi-course sit-down dinners in the Main Dining Room.
- Basic Beverages: Tap water, iced tea, lemonade, and basic "drip" coffee or hot tea found in the buffet area.
- Shows & Entertainment: Admission to Broadway-style theater productions, live music in lounges, comedy acts, and poolside movies.
- Ship Activities: Access to swimming pools, hot tubs, the fitness center (gym), and most outdoor sports courts (basketball, mini golf).
- Kids' Clubs: Supervised youth programs and age-specific lounges for children and teenagers (usually up to age 17).
What is Not Included (Extra Costs)
- These items are the "hidden" costs of cruising. For most travelers, these extras can easily add 30% to 50% to the total cost of the trip.
- Gratuities (Tips): Most lines automatically charge $16* to $20* per person, per day to your account to tip the service staff.
- Alcohol & Soda: All soft drinks, beers, wines, and cocktails are extra unless you purchase a beverage package.
- Specialty Dining: High-end steakhouses, sushi bars, or Italian bistros require a "cover charge," usually ranging from $35* to $70* per person.
- Shore Excursions: Guided tours in port are not free. Expect to pay anywhere from $50* to $250+* per person for local activities.
- Wi-Fi & Internet: Connection at sea is expensive. Satellite internet packages typically start around $20* per day for one device.
- Port Fees & Taxes: These mandatory government fees are often added at the final checkout screen and are not part of the advertised "lead" price.
- Spa & Salon: Massages, facials, and hair styling are premium services priced similarly to high-end land resorts.
Checklist of the Inclusions & Exclusions of Cruise Cost
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Accommodations in a cabin | Airfare and transportation to the embarkation port |
| All meals, including specialty dining options | Shore excursions and tours |
| Onboard entertainment and activities | Alcoholic and specialty beverages |
| Access to pools, fitness centers, and amenities | Spa services and personal expenses |
| Port taxes and fees | Gratuities for service staff |
| Room service | Travel insurance and medical expenses |
| Kids' and teens' programs | Wi-Fi and internet charges |
| Select non-alcoholic beverages | Souvenirs and onboard shopping |
| Government taxes and fees | Personal expenses and incidentals |
Other Fees & Extra Costs You Will Have To Pay For Before Setting Sail On a Cruise
When looking for all-inclusive best cruise deals, it's essential to consider various fees and extra costs that may arise before setting sail. Here are some common ones to keep in mind:
1. Cruise Fare: The cruise fare is the base cost of your ticket, which covers accommodation, meals, and most onboard activities. The fare varies based on the cruise line, ship, cabin type, and itinerary.
2. Port Taxes and Fees: These charges are levied by the ports and local authorities and are usually included in the overall cruise fare. They cover the use of port facilities and services.
3. Gratuities or Service Charges: Most cruise lines add an automatic daily gratuity or service charge to your onboard account. This fee is distributed among service staff, such as cabin stewards, waitstaff, and housekeeping. The amount can vary, but it is often around $10* to $15* per person per day.
4. Excursions: Shore excursions are organized activities and tours at each port of call. These can include guided city tours, water sports, cultural experiences, and more. Excursions typically have an additional cost and vary depending on the activity and destination.
5. Specialty Dining: While cruise ships offer complimentary dining options, some specialty restaurants or dining venues may have an extra fee. These specialty venues often offer gourmet cuisine or unique dining experiences, and the additional charges can range from a few dollars to a significant amount.
6. Beverages: Non-alcoholic beverages like water, coffee, and tea are usually included in the cruise fare. However, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, and other drinks often incur additional charges. Some cruise lines offer beverage packages that provide unlimited drinks for a fixed fee.
7. Spa and Salon Services: Cruise ships feature spas, salons, and fitness centers offering various services such as massages, facials, hair styling, and fitness classes. These services generally come at an extra cost, which can vary.
8. Wi-Fi and Internet Access: While some cruise lines offer limited complimentary internet access, faster or unlimited packages often involve an additional fee. The cost for internet access can vary based on the cruise line and the duration of your trip.
9. Onboard Activities and Entertainment: While many onboard activities are included in the cruise fare, some entertainment options may have additional fees. These include premium theater shows, casinos, specialty classes (e.g., art, dance, cooking), and sports activities like rock climbing or go-karting.
10. Onboard Shopping: Cruise ships have shops and boutiques to purchase clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and duty-free items. These purchases are not included in the cruise fare and will incur extra costs.
Before embarking on your journey, it's essential to review the specific details and terms your chosen cruise line provides to understand all potential fees and extra costs.
It's essential to review the specific details and terms your chosen cruise line provides to understand all potential fees and extra costs before embarking on your journey.
Tips for Saving Money on Your 7-Day Cruise
A seven-day cruise gives plenty of time to enjoy the ship, ports, and sea days, but costs can rise fast without a clear plan. Smart choices before booking and careful spending onboard help control the total cruise vacation cost. Small decisions, from cabin selection to onboard purchases, shape the final cruise price breakdown. These tips focus on simple, practical ways to keep a 1-week cruise cost within budget while still enjoying the full travel experience.
- Book early to access lower base fares and wider cabin choices
- Sail during shoulder months for a lower weekly cruise price
- Choose inside or Oceanview cabins to reduce the cruise cost per person
- Watch for cruise line sales that bundle drinks or Wi-Fi
- Prepay gratuities to lock rates before boarding
- Skip specialty dining on some nights and use the included venues
- Plan port days independently to lower shore spending
- Set a daily spending limit for onboard extras
- Review the final bill carefully before disembarkation
Final Words
Choosing the right 1-week cruise cost involves balancing your upfront fare with the extra fees for drinks, tips, and tours. While the average cruise costs 7 days start around $400*, adding hidden charges like port taxes and Wi-Fi often brings the total closer to $800* per person. By booking early and selecting the right cabin for your group, you can enjoy a luxury vacation without overspending. Planning carefully ensures your weekly cruise price stays within your budget.
FAQs About How much does a 1 week cruise cost
Also Check: What Kind of Cruise Travel Insurance Do You Need?
