As a frequent cruise traveler, I’ve learned that managing laundry needs can significantly impact your vacation budget. Whether you’re planning a week-long Caribbean adventure or an extended ocean voyage, knowing the laundry options and costs on cruise ships is essential for smart packing and budgeting.
Most cruise lines offer various laundry services, from self-service facilities to full-service options. While some luxury lines include complimentary laundry service, many mainstream cruise lines charge for these conveniences. I’ll help you understand what to expect and how to plan for laundry expenses during your upcoming cruise vacation, ensuring you won’t face any surprises when it comes to keeping your vacation wardrobe fresh and clean.
Laundry Services on Cruise Ships
Modern cruise ships offer multiple laundry options to accommodate various passenger preferences and budgets. I’ve found these services range from basic self-service facilities to premium full-service solutions.
Self-Service Laundry Facilities
Cruise ships equipped with self-service laundry rooms typically charge $2-4 per wash load and $2-4 per dryer cycle. These facilities include coin-operated or card-activated machines located on specific decks. Most self-service laundromats provide:
- Washing machines with multiple temperature settings
- Industrial dryers with timed cycles
- Vending machines for detergent packets ($1-2 per packet)
- Folding tables and hanging areas
- Iron and ironing boards at no extra charge
Professional Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Professional laundry services on cruise ships operate through a convenient pickup and delivery system to your stateroom. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
| Service Type |
Average Cost |
| Dress Shirts |
$5-7 each |
| Pants/Slacks |
$6-8 each |
| Dresses |
$8-12 each |
| Suits |
$12-15 each |
| Regular Wash & Fold (per bag) |
$20-30 |
| Express Service Surcharge |
50% additional |
The professional service includes several premium features, such as same-day service for items received before 9 AM, professional pressing and garment finishing, and special handling for delicate fabrics. Each stateroom comes equipped with complimentary laundry bags, and all services are conveniently billed to your onboard account with itemized receipts.
Typical Laundry Costs on Major Cruise Lines
Cruise lines offer varied laundry pricing structures across their fleets. The costs depend on whether you choose self-service facilities or professional services, with luxury lines often including complimentary options.
Washer and Dryer Prices
Self-service laundry facilities on cruise ships operate on a per-load basis with specific pricing:
- Carnival Cruise Line charges $3.50 per wash load and $3.50 per dryer load, with $2 detergent packets
- Disney Cruise Line sets rates at $3 per washer or dryer cycle, plus $1 for detergent
- Princess Cruises maintains $3 pricing for each washer or dryer load, with $1.50 detergent options
- Oceania Cruises provides complimentary self-service laundry including detergent
- Regent Seven Seas offers free laundry facilities with detergent included
Per-Item Professional Service Rates
Professional laundry services on cruise ships follow a tiered pricing model:
| Service Type |
Price Range |
| Regular Shirts |
$5-7 |
| Dress Shirts |
$7-10 |
| Pants/Slacks |
$8-12 |
| Dresses |
$10-15 |
| Express Service |
Additional 50% |
Note: Luxury cruise lines like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas include professional laundry services in their fare packages.
Laundry Package Deals and Promotions
Laundry Package Deals and Promotions
Cruise lines offer various laundry packages to help passengers manage their clothing care needs efficiently. These packages provide cost-effective alternatives to paying for individual items.
Unlimited Laundry Packages
Holland America Line’s unlimited laundry package costs $63 for a 7-day cruise ($9 per day) or $126 for a 14-day cruise. The package includes daily laundry service with the ability to send multiple items. Additional package options include the $35 “Laundry By The Bag” deal where passengers fill a standard laundry bag with as many items as possible. A separate unlimited pressing package is available for $35 on 7-day cruises or $70 on 14-day sailings.
Special Offers for Loyalty Members
Celebrity Cruises provides complimentary unlimited laundry services exclusively to passengers staying in Royal Suite staterooms and higher categories. Norwegian Cruise Line maintains an à la carte pricing structure, charging $7.95 for jeans and $4 for T-shirts, without specific loyalty member packages. These pricing structures create distinct advantages for suite guests and loyal customers who frequently sail with specific cruise lines.
| Cruise Line |
Package Type |
Cost (7-day) |
Cost (14-day) |
| Holland America |
Unlimited Laundry |
$63 |
$126 |
| Holland America |
Laundry By Bag |
$35 |
$35 |
| Holland America |
Unlimited Pressing |
$35 |
$70 |
| Celebrity Cruises |
Royal Suite Services |
Complimentary |
Complimentary |
Money-Saving Tips for Cruise Laundry
Effective laundry management on a cruise combines strategic timing with cost-saving options to keep your clothing clean without overspending on laundry services. The key starts with smart packing choices that can significantly reduce your laundry needs throughout the voyage. Consider packing wrinkle-resistant fabrics and mix-and-match clothing items that can create multiple outfits while taking up minimal space. Quick-dry clothing items, particularly athletic wear and synthetic materials, are excellent choices as they can be easily hand-washed and will dry quickly in your cabin. Bringing travel-size detergent packets enables you to hand wash delicates in your cabin sink, while darker colored clothing can help minimize visible dirt and stains. A small spray bottle can also be useful for refreshing clothes between wears.
Pack Smart to Minimize Laundry Needs
Timing is crucial when it comes to using onboard laundry services efficiently. Self-service facilities are typically least crowded during port days when most passengers are off the ship exploring. For those using professional services, booking between 9 AM and 11 AM on sea days often means shorter wait times and better service. Many cruise lines offer special promotions during the last few days of the cruise, such as Costa Cruises’ “Magic Bag” service, which allows passengers to clean up to 25 pieces for just $23 during promotional periods.
Best Times to Use Laundry Services
Cost-conscious travelers should note that Carnival ships offer self-service laundry for $3.50 per load, which can be more economical than per-item charges. Whether using self-service or professional options, scheduling your laundry sessions during meal times can help you avoid peak usage hours. The cost for self-service washing and drying typically ranges from $3-3.50 per load, with detergent and softener available for $1-2. These strategic approaches to timing and service selection can help maintain fresh clothing throughout your cruise while keeping costs manageable.
| Service Type |
Cost Range |
Best Time to Use |
| Self-Service Wash |
$3-3.50 |
Port Days |
| Self-Service Dry |
$3-3.50 |
Early Morning |
| Detergent/Softener |
$1-2 |
Any Time |
| Magic Bag (Costa) |
$23/25 pieces |
End of Cruise |
Alternatives to Ship Laundry Services
Cruise passengers have several cost-effective alternatives to traditional ship laundry services. These options combine convenience with substantial savings for budget-conscious travelers.
Hand Washing in Your Cabin
Hand washing clothes in your cruise cabin bathroom offers a practical solution for small clothing items like undergarments socks t-shirts. Pack travel-size detergent packets sink stoppers clotheslines to create an efficient mini laundry station. Hang wet items in the bathroom using magnetic hooks or over-the-door hangers ensuring proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup.
Port Day Laundromats
Local laundromats in port cities provide an economical alternative to onboard services. Most port cities feature self-service laundromats within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the cruise terminal. These facilities typically charge $2-3 per load compared to the $3-7 rates on cruise ships. Search online maps before your cruise to locate laundromats near each port planning laundry sessions during longer port stays to maximize your time.
Clotheslyne is also an option for select locations for your port day laundry when you arrive back on land. Always check which location we’re currently live before scheduling on the iOS or Android app.
Keeping your clothes clean during a cruise doesn’t have to break the bank. I’ve shared various options from self-service facilities to professional services along with their associated costs. Whether you choose to use onboard laundromats pack strategically or take advantage of port-city facilities you’ll find a solution that fits your budget and schedule.
Remember to check your cruise line’s specific offerings and consider booking laundry packages if they align with your needs. With these insights you can now make informed decisions about managing your laundry needs while enjoying your cruise vacation to the fullest.
For those who prefer professional laundry care, Clotheslyne provides an ideal solution. Through the app, you can hire Clotheslyners for expert laundry services, including washing, drying, and folding of clothes and bulky items.
Choosing Clotheslyne ensures your laundry is handled with care and expertise. It’s convenient for those who value their time and prefer professional laundry services.
To use Clotheslyne, download the iOS Apple App or Google Play Store Android app to schedule your laundry pick up.
You can also schedule your laundry pick up through our web portal.
Fill up a tall kitchen bag full of clothes. A Clotheslyner in your community will pick it up and deliver it back to you washed, dried, and folded in 48 hours. It’s that simple.
Got a question for us? Head over to our contact us page and make a custom request by email or by phone! We’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does self-service laundry cost on a cruise ship?
Self-service laundry typically costs between $2-4 per wash load and the same for drying. For example, Carnival charges $3.50 per cycle, Disney charges $3, and Princess charges $3 per load. Detergent is usually available from vending machines for around $1-1.50.
Do luxury cruise lines offer free laundry services?
Yes, many luxury cruise lines like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas offer complimentary self-service laundry facilities, including free detergent. Some luxury lines also include professional laundry services in their fare packages.
What are the costs for professional laundry service on cruises?
Professional laundry services typically charge $5-7 for regular shirts, $10-15 for dresses, and $20-30 for wash and fold services. Express service usually incurs an additional 50% charge. Prices vary by cruise line and garment type.
Are there laundry package deals available on cruises?
Yes, many cruise lines offer package deals. For example, Holland America Line offers an unlimited laundry package for $63 on a 7-day cruise and a “Laundry By The Bag” deal for $35. Some lines include unlimited laundry for suite guests.
Can I do laundry in my cruise cabin?
While you can hand wash small items in your cabin bathroom using travel-size detergent, it’s generally discouraged to do extensive laundry in your room. Some ships provide retractable clotheslines in bathroom showers for drying small items.
When is the best time to use cruise ship laundry facilities?
The best times to use self-service laundry facilities are during port days when most passengers are off the ship, or during meal times when facilities are less crowded. For professional services, booking during sea days in off-peak hours is recommended.
Are there alternatives to using cruise ship laundry services?
Yes, you can use local laundromats in port cities, which typically charge $2-3 per load. This is often more economical than ship services. Pack quick-dry fabrics and darker colors to minimize laundry needs during your cruise.
Do all cruise ships have self-service laundry facilities?
No, not all cruise ships have self-service laundry facilities. While many modern ships offer this amenity, some smaller or older vessels may only provide professional laundry services. Check with your specific cruise line before sailing.
