Rate jolt. Cost astonishment. Expense dismay. Call it what you will, but it’s what happens when you’ve chosen a seemingly lower-cost cruise without considering “extras” (read: vacation life necessities) are not included. Tidbits from air to alcohol to soft drinks to shore excursions to gratuities can add up fast, inflating the final bill. Despite how delightful your cruise experience has been, that unexpected grand total just might bring on the blues. For a totally seamless trip, don’t just go all- inclusive, but add in a cruise line-offered or -included air package to sweeten the deal.

No luxury traveler wants to count their pennies on a cruise — or worse, feel they’ve been nickeled and dimed after they’ve already shelled out a generous fare to float down a river or surf the seas. “Luxury, all-inclusive cruise lines provide value and ease of travel, so you don’t have to worry about anything except enjoying your holiday,” said Becky Robinson, cruise expert and top-of-the-line luxury travel advisor, Departure Lounge. “All-inclusive and air- inclusive cruises might seem more expensive at first, but once you add in all the extras (gratuities, drinks, WiFi, etc.), the final price comes out to be very close,” she said. Noting smaller cruise lines tend to do a better job of offering higher-quality, all-inclusive amenities and programs, Robinson touts them, as well, for being more relaxing, elegant and intimate.

PHOTO: © SILVERSEA

In terms of air-inclusive cruise fares, Robinson said, “There are very few cruise lines that offer them these days. Silversea has a Door- to-Door fare that includes economy air — and can be upgraded for a reasonable price. Others have an add-on option, and some cruise lines offer included air promotions on select routes and dates.”

Robinson suggests travelers shop around for promotions offering air when deciding on which cruise to take. “If you are lucky enough to book one of those promotions, you should definitely consider the option for included air,” she said. “Though the ‘included’ will be economy, you’ll often be able to upgrade to a discounted business or premium-economy rate. Keep in mind that if you accept this included air, you’ll need to be flexible — and you’ll be required to book the air through the cruise line itself.”

These airfares are subject to contracts and agreements between air and cruise companies. You may not get the best routing or the specific airline you desire.

Ready to sail away with pre-paid air and more? Here are some of the world’s most sublime all-inclusive and air-inclusive cruises:

PHOTO: © EXPLORA JOURNEYS

Launched in 2021 to redefine extravagance at sea, Explora Journeys offers upscale sailors a sophisticated — albeit contemporary and relaxed — cruise to some of the world’s most alluring ports. Designed to be yacht-like and infinitely posh (think partnerships with brands like Rolex), these cruises include a generous array of delights, such as nine distinct culinary experiences, unlimited fine beverages, thermal spa access, shuttle service from port to city center, a welcome bottle of Champagne and refreshments, a wine and spirit of choice in your room, high- speed WiFi for up to three devices, all onboard gratuities, fitness and well-being programs, and truly intuitive service. Tap into Explora Journeys’ new Sky & Sea fare, which supports guests with customized international and domestic economy-class flight arrangements — with upgrade options — hotel stays when required, private transfers and more.

You won’t pay extra for a butler on a tony Silversea cruise. Boasting smaller, dignified ships with a stylish vibe, Silversea has ocean-view suites and private verandas. Enjoy entertaining offerings such as the gastronomic S.A.L.T (Sea and Land Taste) program, cooking classes and bridge games. All onboard activities from F&B (including alcohol) to WiFi and personalized butler service are part of every fare type. You’ll swoon over the 24/7 caviar and bespoke room minibars. Certain fares also include a selection of shore excursions. As mentioned by Robinson, Silversea’s Door-to- Door fare is all-encompassing, but guests booking certain Silversea itineraries, such as a Galápagos expedition sailing or an Antarctica Fly Cruise, have all charter flights included.

Set off with Regent Seven Seas Cruises from Cape Town to edge Africa’s riveting Atlantic Coast, sailing all the way to Barcelona on the 24-night West Africa Passage. The trip embraces urban high spots; Mediterranean delights; and volcanic wonderment in exotic places such as Namibia, Dakar and Cabo Verde. Brandishing all- inclusive fares for peerless and pampering holidays, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers fine wines and spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, specialty restaurants, all onboard meals, pre-paid gratuities, and shore excursions for one price. Nab round-trip flights in the air class of your choice with Regent’s Ultimate All-Inclusive Fares for a completely seamless holiday.

Flaunting the world’s only true ocean liner, Queen Mary 2, legendary Cunard is a pioneer of trans-Atlantic travel. It perpetuates grand, British-inspired cruising traditions on board such as a lavish afternoon tea service and formal balls. Take advantage of either of its inclusive air offerings: Cunard Complete Air Program, which allows the option to book both the cruise and airfare with Cunard, or Cunard’s Private Air, a service which enables guests to travel to or from ports in peerless luxury on board a fleet of private jets.

An on-water haven of joie d’vivre, French-owned Ponant Explorations puts the oh là là in cruising with French-inflected service: Think accents, gastronomy, Champagne and more. Known for its luxurious small ships, Ponant invites travelers to experience a unique world of global cruising with an environmentally conscious approach. Currently, Ponant offers a choice of complimentary airfare or a post-cruise experience on select itineraries.