I've been on 40 cruises. Here are 5 upgrades that are always worth the extra cost — and 3 to skip

Although cruise fares always include your accommodations, meals, select beverages, and onboard entertainment, there are plenty of extras that can quickly turn an otherwise affordable vacation into one that breaks the bank. 

Add-ons like shore excursions, drink packages, spa treatments, private cabanas, and specialty restaurants can add up faster than you think. The good news is that cruises are highly customizable, so you don't need to spend extra on optional upgrades if you don't want to. 

Having been on over three dozen cruises, ranging from port-intensive European sailings to Alaskan adventures and laid-back Bahamian getaways, I've spent thousands on various add-ons. Some have been worth the investment, while others have left me disappointed. 

Here's a list of 5 cruise add-ons that are always worth the extra cost — and 3 that are better off being skipped. 

Cruise upgrades that ARE worth the extra money

Specialty dining restaurants

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Your cruise fare includes unlimited meals in certain restaurants such as the ship's dining room and buffet. Although some guests prefer to stick with the included options throughout their voyage, I enjoy mixing things up by spluring on specialty restaurants.

These extra-charge venues offer unique menus that generally focus on one specific cuisine or cooking style, such as Italian, sushi, Teppanyaki, French, Mexican, and more. You can book them ahead of time via your cruise line's online planner or wait until you are on the ship and try to score a last-minute reservation. 

From dishes prepared with higher-quality ingredients to intimate settings and over-the-top presentations, specialty restaurants showcase the best dining onboard a cruise ship that simply cannot be offered in dining rooms and buffets that are more focused on quantity over quality. 

Drink packages

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Personally, I find the beverage options on a cruise ship somewhat limiting, as most drinks — such as soft drinks, specialty coffees, energy drinks, cocktails, wine, and beer — are not included and come with an additional cost.

As such, purchasing a drink package allows me to enjoy a nearly all-inclusive experience when it comes to beverages. Plus, most cruise lines have different tiers of packages, allowing you to select the option that best aligns with your drinking habits. For example, since I don’t drink alcohol, I always look at the available non-alcoholic options, like soda and coffee packages. 

In the end, drink packages aren't always about getting sloshed by the pool. They're a practical way to keep your costs predictable by pre-paying for your beverages up front. 

Balcony cabins

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Technically, you can get away with booking a cheap interior cruise room. A windowless cabin won't impact your overall experience that much, especially if you're on a budget and simply happy to be on board the ship. 

However, as someone who frequently cruises, I've learned the value of splurging on a balcony stateroom. Not only are they more spacious, but they also offer a private outdoor area where you can enjoy fresh sea air, take in the sweeping ocean views, and escape the crowds. 

Having a private balcony significantly enhances my cruise experience and is a must-have for me, regardless of whether I'm booking a scenic voyage to destinations like Alaska or Norway, or simply planning a short Bahamian getaway.

Shore excursions

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When planning a cruise, you not only want to make sure you’re selecting the right cruise line and ship, but also an itinerary that interests you. The ports of call and excursions can shape a lot of the overall experience, so it is often worth paying a little extra for destinations and activities you'll actually enjoy.

Although booking excursions through your cruise line is convenient, you may find better options that are sometimes cheaper offered by independent vendors. Shore Excursions Group has quickly become a favorite of mine, offering more personalized experiences in ports around the world, from Alaska to Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond. 

Cruise shore excursions can turn an otherwise normal port day into one of the best days of the entire trip, letting you experience the destination rather than just wandering aimlessly or staying within the commercialized port areas.

Read more: I skipped the pricey cruise line excursions in Alaska and booked with a third party. It was easier and better than expected

Thermal spa passes

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Booking individual spa treatments on board is expensive. However, I've found that thermal spa passes are one overlooked cruise add-on that's consistently worth the money. 

Although the amenities vary by ship, most basic thermal suites include heated loungers, steam rooms, and saunas. I've even been on vessels that have thermal areas with expansive hydrotherapy pools, private outdoor sun decks, and chilly snow rooms. 

Pricing also varies, and I've paid upwards of $239 for a four-night sailing on a new Disney ship. However, there's nothing quite like alternating between the steam room and sauna before stretching out on a heated stone lounger with a good book on a sea day. Plus, having unlimited access makes the price easier to swallow. 

Cruise upgrades that AREN'T worth the extra money

Private pool cabanas

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Let's face it, nobody likes battling with chair hogs for prime pool chairs on a sunny sea day. Unfortunately, that's the reality on many cruises, even with cruise lines attempting to crack down on the practice of reserving chairs. 

Private pool cabanas might seem appealing since they offer a dedicated, shaded spot to relax on the ever-popular pool deck. Sometimes, they also come with extra amenities, like a private cabana attendant or upgraded dining menu. 

Still, cabanas are pricey for what you get, considering that there are tons of complimentary seating options available on the ship, even if they aren't steps from the pool. 

Onboard shopping

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Onboard shopping is another waste of money. It can be worth it if you're thinking about buying a ship-exclusive souvenir, like a coffee mug or sweatshirt. However, most merchandise available on the vessel is cheaply made and overpriced. 

Cruise ships, for example, are notorious for sales that seem too good to be true, particularly when it comes to watches, artwork, and gold chains. 

I'd also steer clear of the pop-up table sales that are piled high with hats, t-shirts, costume jewelry, and basic swim cover-ups. The prices might seem tempting, but the quality is lacking, and they are designed to trigger impulse buys. 

Photo packages

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Last but certainly not least, cruise photo packages are another add-on that many guests can go without. Throughout your vacation, you'll find plenty of professional photographers available for staged shots on the ship and on the gangway. 

Although I love buying the occasional photograph as a keepsake, the unlimited photo packages are overpriced. In reality, you're better off taking your own pictures and only purchasing the one or two photographs you really, really love. 

Let's be honest — you absolutely do not need that staged family photo snapped at the dining room table on formal night.