What the fare covers, what it doesn't, and how this itinerary actually runs.
Money on board · Costa Cruises
Already in the fare
Accommodation in your chosen cabin grade is included.Most meals in the main dining rooms and buffet restaurants are covered by the fare.Access to the main pools, hot tubs, and fitness center is included.A range of entertainment, including theatrical shows, live music, and deck parties, is part of your cruise fare.Basic beverages like water, coffee, tea, and juice are available at breakfast and at the buffet during opening hours.
The drinks package
Costa's 'My Drinks' package typically costs around €35-50 per person, per day, including the automatic service charge. Prices can vary by itinerary and booking region, so confirm with the line when you book.
Break-even: This package usually pays for itself if you have about 5-7 drinks a day, combining alcoholic beverages like beer, wine by the glass, or cocktails, with soft drinks and premium coffees.
It suits those who plan to enjoy several alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic drinks daily. Light drinkers who are content with the free basic beverages may find it unnecessary.
- Gratuities
- An automatic service charge, typically around €11-12 per person, per day, is added to your account for guests aged 15 and over. This amount may be slightly lower for children aged 4-14, and there is no charge for infants under 4. It can often be prepaid at the time of booking, or adjusted on board by speaking with Guest Services.
- Wifi
- Wi-Fi access is generally available in packages or on a pay-as-you-go basis, with costs varying. A basic social media package might allow messaging apps and light social browsing, but streaming or video calls are usually restricted to more expensive tiers.
Costs that surprise people
- ◆Specialty Dining. Restaurants outside the main dining rooms and buffet often have an additional cover charge or à la carte pricing.
- ◆Shore Excursions. Tours and activities booked through the cruise line in port are an extra cost, ranging from modest to significant depending on the activity.
- ◆Spa and Thermal Suite Access. While the gym is included, spa treatments and access to the thermal suite areas, such as saunas and steam rooms, usually incur a charge.
- ◆Photo Packages. Professional photos taken by the ship's photographers are available for purchase, either individually or as part of a package.
- ◆Port Shuttle Buses. In some ports, Costa provides shuttle buses from the ship to the town center, which may have a small fee per person each way; check the current port shuttle price on the day.
Ways to spend less
- ◆Book Drink Packages in Advance. Drink packages are often offered at a slightly lower rate if purchased before sailing compared to buying them on board.
- ◆Utilize Included Dining Options. Stick to the main dining rooms and buffet for all meals to avoid specialty dining charges.
- ◆Go Ashore Independently. Research and arrange your own shore excursions or simply explore ports on foot to avoid the cost of ship-organized tours.
AI-written guidance, not a quote. Prices and policies change and vary by sailing — confirm anything that matters with the cruise line before you book.
