Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Short answer: Carnival lists internet access, team-member gratuities, many bar drinks, specialty dining and shore excursions among items that cost extra. But Royal Caribbean’s current fare FAQ also lists Wi-Fi, specialty dining, shore excursions and beverage packages as optional add-ons. The claim that Royal Caribbean generally gives these things away is not supported by the lines’ published fare descriptions.
What both cruise fares include
Both cruise lines describe a stateroom, entertainment and several dining choices as part of the cruise fare. Carnival names its Main Dining Room and/or Lido options, select casual food spots, pizza and soft-serve; Royal Caribbean describes complimentary dining across multiple venues, including main dining and casual options. These are shared baseline inclusions, not a clear distinction between the brands. Check the ship’s venue list before relying on a particular restaurant or food option.
Carnival’s fare FAQ and Royal Caribbean’s fare FAQ describe their respective inclusions. Royal Caribbean summarizes its fare as covering a stateroom, dining across multiple venues, entertainment, activities and access to exclusive private destinations.
Where the charges differ—or don’t
| Category | Carnival’s published description | Royal Caribbean’s published description | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet and app messaging | Internet access and Carnival HUB app chat are listed as not included. | Wi-Fi is an optional add-on. Guest-to-guest chat is included in the Royal Caribbean app. | App chat is not general internet access. Compare the Wi-Fi option and price for the specific sailing. |
| Gratuities | Tips or gratuities for team members are listed as not included in the cruise price. | The reviewed fare FAQ does not state whether standard gratuities are included or how they are handled. | Check the booking terms for the sailing; Royal Caribbean’s FAQ silence is not proof that gratuities are included. |
| Drinks | Specified non-bottled drinks and non-specialty coffee or tea are included in named venues. Many alcoholic and non-alcoholic bar beverages are extra, subject to stated exceptions. | The FAQ lists water, tea, select juices and classic coffees among included beverages; beverage packages are optional. | Check beverage type, venue and whether a package applies. “Drinks included” is too broad to be useful. |
| Specialty dining and cafes | Specialty restaurants and some cafe or lounge food are listed among exclusions. | Specialty dining is an optional add-on. | Verify each venue’s fare status and price for the ship and sailing. |
| Shore excursions and services | Carnival Adventures Shore Excursions, spa services, laundry and other listed items cost extra. | Shore excursions, spa treatments and other add-ons are optional. | Both lines offer experiences and services beyond the basic fare; check the options available on your itinerary. |
How to compare the real trip cost
- Match the booking: Compare the same itinerary and sailing date, with similar cabin categories and fare conditions.
- List the extras you expect to use: Include drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, specialty meals, excursions and personal services rather than comparing only headline fares.
- Check ship and package eligibility: Venues and package offers can vary by ship, sailing, market and booking. Carnival’s Cruise Value Packages advertise savings across categories such as premium dining, drinks, shore excursions, spa, photos and Wi-Fi, but discounted venues and experiences are capacity-limited and may not be available on every ship or sailing.
- Confirm the final terms: Review the actual booking and add-on details before deciding. The published inclusion pages are not matched quotes, and they do not establish which line will cost less after your choices.
What the published pages can—and can’t—show
The official descriptions establish that Carnival lists several common extras, while Royal Caribbean also treats multiple headline categories—including Wi-Fi, specialty dining, excursions and beverage packages—as optional. They do not provide a dated, quantified comparison of onboard value or prove that one brand is universally cheaper. Availability and charges can depend on the ship, itinerary, sailing date, market, cabin or package. Royal Caribbean’s guide to cruise inclusions also notes that prices and offers can change.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
