Newer cruise ships have "more opportunities to upsell," Patrick Scholes, an analyst at Truist Securities, told Insider.Brittany Chang/Insider Cruise lines are seemingly adopting the budget airline model: Charge a base fare and pile on extras. Newer cruise ships have "more opportunities to upsell" with restaurant and entertainment options. Cruise companies have been raising the cost of packages like specialty dining, beverages, and WiFi. Going on a cruise can be one of your cheapest travel options — as long as you don't sign up for too many of the optional packages and extra amenities.Over the last 10 to 15 years, mass-market cruise lines have been adopting a model that looks a bit like budget airlines: Charge a low base fare and then offer a bunch of extras — all for an additional price.So on paper, your cruise vacation may seem super-affordable.