Are Performance Cruises Worth the Investment? A Cost vs. Value Breakdown

As a dance studio owner, you’re constantly making investment decisions—whether it’s costumes, competitions, or upgrading your studio space. You want to provide incredible opportunities for your dancers while making smart financial choices for families.

So, when you hear about performance cruises, the big question is: Are they truly worth the price?

Let’s break down the cost vs. value and see why a performance cruise could be one of the best investments you make for your studio.

What Does a Performance Cruise Really Cost?

A performance cruise is an all-in-one experience, covering:

✅ Accommodations

✅ Meals

✅ Entertainment

✅ A professional performance opportunity

Here’s a general breakdown of what families can expect to pay:

💰 Cabin Price: $700–$1,500 per person (includes room, meals, onboard entertainment)

🎭 Performance Fees: $50-$150 per person, depending on details and number of dancers

✈ Travel to Departure Port: Varies by location

🚢 Extras (Excursions, Specialty Dining, Souvenirs): Optional expenses

At first glance, that might feel like a big commitment—but when you compare it to traditional competition costs, the value becomes clear.

Performance Cruise vs. Dance Competition: A Cost Comparison

Many studios attend multiple competitions each season. But have you ever stopped to add up the real cost?

Dance Competition Costs (Per Dancer, Per Event)

🏨 Hotel Stay: $150–$300 per night

🎟 Competition Entry Fees: $50–$150 per routine

🚗 Travel & Food: $200–$500 per trip

💄 Costumes & Accessories: $100–$500 per routine

👉 Total per Competition: $1,000–$2,500+

Multiply that by multiple competitions per season,  and families easily spend thousands each year.

💡 A performance cruise, on the other hand, often costs less than a full competition season— while offering more value!

What Makes a Performance Cruise Worth It?

While cost is important, the true value of a performance cruise goes beyond the numbers.

Here’s why studios that make the switch never look back:

1. A Professional-Level Performance Opportunity

Your dancers will perform on a Broadway-style stage with professional lighting and sound—a step up from competitions held in hotel ballrooms.

✨ Boosts confidence & stage presence

🌍 Dancers gain exposure to a real audience, not just judges

🎭 No stress of scoring—just pure performance joy

2. All-Inclusive, Hassle-Free Travel

Competitions require hotels, flights, car rentals, food planning, and constant coordination. A cruise? Everything is included.

🚢 No juggling schedules & travel logistics

🍽️ Meals are covered—no searching for restaurants

💆 Less stress for parents and studio owners

It’s the easiest, most enjoyable way to travel with a group.

3. A Dream Vacation for Families

Competition weekends often mean long days in crowded ballrooms. A cruise, however, means parents get a vacation, too!

🌊 Onboard entertainment & Broadway-style shows

🍹 Relaxation by the pool & luxury amenities

🏝️ Exciting excursions to tropical destinations

For parents, this is a win-win—they get to support their child while enjoying a well-deserved getaway.

4. Builds Stronger Studio Community & Boosts Retention

Nothing brings a studio together like traveling as a team.

🤝 Dancers bond in a way that competitions don’t facilitate

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents connect & build friendships

📈 Stronger relationships lead to higher student retention

When families feel invested in your studio, they stay longer— making this experience a long-term win for your business.

5. A Powerful Studio Marketing & Recruitment Tool

Offering a performance cruise sets your studio apart and helps attract more students.

📸 Showcase past cruises in your marketing

💬 Parents love sharing this unique experience with other families

🎯 A premium experience makes your studio the obvious choice

When prospective students see your dancers performing on a cruise ship, your studio instantly stands out from the rest.

The Bottom Line: Is a Performance Cruise Worth It?

Absolutely.

While a performance cruise requires financial planning, the unmatched experience, professional opportunities, and built-in vacation make it a better value than many traditional dance expenses.

💡 Pro Tip: With group rates, payment plans, and fundraising opportunities, a performance cruise can be an attainable and worthwhile investment for every studio.

Let’s Get Your Studio on Board!

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your dancers' experience, build studio loyalty, and create unforgettable memories, a performance cruise is the perfect fit.

And the best part? We handle the details, so you don’t have to.

📩 Start planning your studio’s ultimate dance adventure today! Submit your request here: Performance Request Form 🚢✨💃