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Once upon a time, luxury cruises were only for the rich. Others certainly did travel by ship, even 100 years ago. But they were transported in ‘steerage’, a dingy and uncomfortable accommodation.

In the 1950s, cruises became the in thing among those with a little spare cash, even when they weren’t wealthy. Today, even those on a modest budget can usually afford a cruise.

If you’re one of the latter, though, you’ll want to plan carefully in order to get the maximum value from your travel investment. A few easy-to-learn facts can help you do just that.

First, observe that the price is not always ‘the price’. That is, there is often a price listed in the Sunday travel section, or displayed online, but that is not necessarily what you’ll pay to get what you want. Like many advertisements, they list the lowest possible price available.

What you get for that price will often not be what the average person would want. Even when it’s acceptable, it’s sometimes not available by the time you respond to the ad.

The advertisers aren’t, strictly speaking, being fraudulent. They expect everyone to know by now, that they have other – usually higher priced – offers.

The price displayed also typically only includes the basics. Even that usually is a pretty good deal, since it covers accommodations, meals, onboard entertainment and some basic facilities. What it doesn’t include are extras like spas, massages and some special ship board entertainments.

Also, while it includes basic meals, it generally doesn’t include in-between snacks, sodas, alcoholic drinks and lots of other extras that can add up to a hefty additional amount.

You can forego those, of course, but few will. The idea of a cruise, after all, is to indulge yourself, not merely to go from one country to another by ship.

That basic charge also does not usually include port fees, taxes and other charges added by the governments where the ship docks.

Some countries have regulations requiring advertisers to include that amount in the price displayed or state clearly that the price shown doesn’t include them. But there are many loopholes.

Those port fees and taxes can add an additional $100 or more depending on the cruise. If you dock several times, you can expect it to be more. Those fees allow for infrastructure maintenance and other needs to be met. Cruise lines will typically pass them onto the customers in one form or another. They’re in business to make a profit, after all.

Sometimes you will need to add in air transportation charges, other times those will be included in the package. Check the specifics of your planned itinerary.

Insurance is usually not included, but you may want to seriously consider it. Some U.S. insurance companies have ‘fine print’ clauses that releases them from liability if you’re injured or become ill while out of the country. Cancellation insurance, in case you can’t make the journey, is another option to consider.

When you plan your budget for a cruise you should take into account all the costs, not just the one displayed in large print in the ad enticing you.

The ad price typically covers only the most basic accommodation, which may not even be available when you respond to make your reservation. So, be prepared to examine the alternatives and for the possibility of $100-$200 in additional fees, just for the cabin.

You might be satisfied with an interior cabin on the lowest deck. But those can be cramped even beyond the usual relatively small room on a ship, noisy or just unpleasant to be in.

Some people won’t mind since they go there only to shower and sleep. But for those new to cruise travel the lowest option is not usually desirable.

Spoil yourself, just this once.

On a 7-night cruise suppose an inside cabin costs $699. If you want to upgrade to an ocean view, you can expect to pay $150-$200 more per person. Prices are often listed as ‘per person, double occupancy’. Singles prices are almost always higher. You may want to consider bunking with a stranger.

On that same cruise, you can expect to pay even more if you want a veranda or balcony. To many, the additional charge is well worth it. You get to see the sunshine in the morning and the stars at night.

You get to watch the waves, and can often see people on the deck below. But you’ll pay an additional $100-$200 on top of that ‘ocean view’ option in order to enjoy the privilege.

Prices vary widely, of course, with specific cruise, the time of year or season and other factors. You can get lucky and get the best cabin for a great price. Only up-to-the-minute research can answer the question for your particular circumstances.

Keep in mind that beyond the cabin and any extras for spas, and so forth, there are many things to spend money on both on the ship and ashore. Ice cream, beer or wine, clothing and gifts can add up.

A $100 additional cost per city you dock at is not at all unusual. Budget an amount appropriate to your situation, but do include something. You’ll be tempted beyond belief once you’re aboard.

Shop around, and allow (on average) a full year to get the best price for your particular ideal cruise. That way you can travel during your preferred season and take advantage of any ‘book in advance’ deals that come along.

You’ll find the wait gives you plenty of time to do your homework and get the best deal. At the same time, it adds to the excitement of going on a cruise.

Ahead to the great adventure…