hidden costs kids can charge

[kcormier19]

questions about the kids on the cruise. could someone please tell me how much things like the video arcade games cost? i am comfused on the cost at johny rockets - the cost is $3.95 but some say the food is free, what is the correct information. lastly any information on the teen activities and clubs for them, three boys 13, 13 and 14 will be cruising. Could you share anything else that kids can do that is an extra cost so we can plan for this well in advance, we are 1st time cruisers. thanks you very much

[LisaK]

one of the biggest costs is soda. Even if your kids aren't big soda drinkers at home, they will drink more than usual on a cruise, it is worth the cost to get the soda card. Figure that on average the cruise lines charge $2.50 for each soda.

[kcormier19]

thanks for the information LisaK. Sounds like the soda card is the way to go.

[LisaK]

another thing to think about is that if your older kids think that they would like to try the "virgin" frou-frou cocktails, drinks of the day, these are not included on the soda card and they can be quite pricey.

[kcormier19]

I'll have to make sure they know about these things before we go. Thanks again

[Colo Cruise Gal 1963]

what my children were allowed to charge on thier room card each day. I limited them to 10.00 per day and when they tried to go over, their card was "declined". I set it up at the onboard account office. Figured if I didn't, even with warning them how much they were allowed, they would get caught up in playing in the arcade and not pay any attention to how much they charged! Worked GREAT!!

[kcormier19]

i wasn't aware you could do that, but that would work out great. gives them both freedom with some responsibility. thanks.

[c_m_alex]

Johnny Rockets does now charge a cover charge per person -- I think it's the $3.95 you referred to. Shakes are extra, on top of that.

Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor
Family Cruise Editor

[Darcy]

There are extra charges for the arcades, anything in the gift shops, some specialty food places such as Starbucks, Ben & Jerrys, Johnny Rockets, soda (unless you buy the soda card), foo foo drinks(non-alcoholic), and slushies.

[kcormier19]

I had a friend that went on a last minute cruise, it was only $199 each. by the time he was done with drinks and other onboard expenses, it was almost $1000. thats why it pays to learn about the costs first. thanks to everyone so far that has helped me out.

[selctsys]

Originally Posted by kcormier19

I had a friend that went on a last minute cruise, it was only $199 each. by the time he was done with drinks and other onboard expenses, it was almost $1000. thats why it pays to learn about the costs first. thanks to everyone so far that has helped me out.

Exactly! It is just like going to Vegas - set a daily limit and stick to it.

As an aside, I know of a situation where the kids (co-worker's niece and nephew) had unrestricted cards and went into the jewelry store and bought "presents" for themselves and parents. The clerk let them run up quite a bill without checking with their parents or asking questions. Fortunately the ship let them return the merchandise.