Should shore excursions be included in your cost?

Silversea have this week announced that unlimited shore excursions and complimentary wi-fi are now included on their summer 2015 Mediterranean itineraries.

Now this is great news in that they are offering  group excursions using local guides to the region’s most memorable attractions for every port of call. There is no need for additional costs and you know that you are guaranteed a good excursion and the assurance of getting back to the ship on time.You can also upgrade to a ‘Silver Shore Selection’ excursion for a smaller more intimate excursion or a ‘Silver Shore Privato’ for a private tour.

However by including these tours Silversea have removed the option of doing your own thing and I am too old and cynical to believe that there is not a cost implication in having inclusive shore excursions. Many people like the freedom to be able to just get off the ship and wander into town, lie on the beach or take a taxi to the local attractions but you will be less inclined to do this if you have already paid for your excursion in your holiday cost.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises switched to inclusive shore excursions a couple of years ago and presumably have done this successfully as Silversea have followed suit.  I’m interested to see how the other luxury cruise lines follow suit – will Seabourn start to include them too ?

As a customer which would you rather have – a higher price but inclusive excursions or a lower offer but additional excursion costs?