How Much Does a Cruise Cost in 2025?
Purchasing a cruise can be a confusing process, as you can be left wondering exactly what is included in your base fare or why the price doubled when you got to the final page in your booking process.
Location is everything. So, how much does a cruise cost in 2025 if you go to the Caribbean versus Europe? Here’s a brief look:
Caribbean
A Caribbean cruise in 2025 can cost between $400–$1,500 per person for 4- to 7-nights. Prices soar during the cold winter months when everyone misses the sun but drop in the late summer and early fall with hurricane season and too much sun. Depending on which part of the Caribbean you’re sailing to, most cruises leave from Florida, New Jersey, or Puerto Rico. Excursions like snorkeling or island tours, drink packages, and upscale dining can add $200–$500 per person.
Alaska
Alaska cruises are known for being at the top of most travelers' budgets, with 7-night sailings starting around $800–$3,000 per person. Peak season months (June–August) are the most expensive, while shoulder seasons (May and September) have more affordable prices. Most cruises depart from Seattle or Vancouver, B.C. Popular Alaska excursions like glacier hikes and whale watching are often costly, running from $200–$500 per activity.
Mexico
How much does a cruise cost in Mexico? These cruises are beloved for being budget-friendly, with 4- to 7-nights ranging from $300–$1,200 per person. Shorter sailings from California or Texas are often the cheapest. Onboard expenses like drink packages, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions can add $100–$500 per person.
Bahamas
Bahamas cruises are known for being both family-friendly and affordable, with 3- to 5-night trips starting at $250–$1,000 per person. Most Bahamas cruises leave from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Tampa. These are often weekend getaways on budget-friendly cruise lines, making them ideal for first-time cruisers. Peak times like spring break and holidays drive up prices, while off-season months (September–November) have lower prices. Additional expenses include drink packages and excursions, which can total an extra $200–$500 per person.
Europe
European cruises vary greatly, starting at $1,200–$4,000 per person for a 7-night trip, depending on season. Summer is the most expensive season, while spring and fall are known for being more friendly to travelers' wallets. Extra costs include port-intensive excursions, onboard specialty dining, and longer flights to reach European departure ports (Typically Spain or Rome), adding another $500–$1,500 per traveler.
Other factors that need to be considered are the Cruise Line you choose to sail with, the cabin type you are looking for, during which season you wish to travel, the length of the cruise, any add-ons you wish to have like WI-FI/all-inclusive drinks packages, etc