15 Hidden Cruise Fees You Need to Know Before You Book
7. Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Laundry services on cruise ships represent a necessary but expensive convenience that can add $100-300 to your cruise cost, particularly on longer voyages where packing sufficient clothing becomes impractical. Cruise lines typically offer both self-service laundromats and full-service laundry options, with self-service facilities charging $3-5 per load for washing and drying, while full-service options can cost $15-25 per item for cleaning and pressing. The convenience of onboard laundry services becomes particularly appealing during extended cruises or when traveling with children who inevitably require clothing changes throughout the day. Many cruise ships have limited self-service facilities that can become crowded and require significant time investment, leading passengers to opt for the more expensive full-service options. The pricing structure for individual items can be shocking, with simple t-shirts costing $8-12 to clean and formal wear commanding premium prices that can exceed $30 per item. Some cruise lines offer laundry packages that provide unlimited washing for a fixed daily rate, which can represent savings for passengers on longer cruises but still constitute a significant additional expense. Understanding these costs in advance allows travelers to pack more strategically, potentially bringing sufficient clothing to avoid laundry expenses entirely, or budgeting appropriately for these necessary services on extended voyages.
