Cruise enthusiasts know that it can be a memorable and exciting experience. With so many choices, it can be difficult to choose the perfect cruise. And once you've found your perfect cruise, getting the best deals can be challenging. You need not fret! This article has compiled 9 secret tips to help you get the best deals on your next cruise. These tips are great for first-time cruisers and seasoned pros alike. They will help you save money while still enjoying your cruise.
- Book Your Excursions Advance
Shore excursions may be the most expensive part of a cruise. By booking in advance, you can save money and do the activities that you want.
- Plan Your Cabin Selection Strategically
Choosing the best cabin for your cruise can be a huge difference. You should look for cabins which offer great views and are located in quiet locations.
- Ask for Discounts
Ask for discounts. There are discounts available for seniors, military personnel and many other groups. Asking never hurts and you might be surprised how much money can be saved.
- Look for Onboard Sales
Many cruise ships offer onboard discounts on items such jewelry, watches, or clothing. Take advantage of these sales to save on souvenirs.
- Avoid Purchasing Wi-Fi Packages
It may be tempting for you to stay connected at sea but purchasing a WiFi package is expensive. You can use the free WiFI available in ports, or you can disconnect and unplug for a while.
- Compare Prices
Never settle for the lowest price. Compare the prices of different travel agents and cruise lines to find the best price. Online travel sites can be used to compare cruise prices and book.
- Be Flexible
If you're flexible in your travel dates, it is possible to save money. You can get discounted cruise rates if you are flexible about your travel dates.
- Booking with a Credit Card
Some credit cards offer rewards or points for travel purchases, including cruises. Credit cards can be used to earn rewards or points and help you save money when booking your next cruise.
- Take advantage of last-minute sales
Last-minute deals can offer significant savings if you're willing to take a chance. Cruise lines sometimes offer discounts on unsold cabins a few weeks before the departure date.
You don't need to struggle to find the best cruise deals. Save money by using these 9 cruise tips. Be flexible, book early, compare prices and take advantage discounts and promotions. Happy cruising!
The Most Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a better price from a cruise line?
While it's not always possible to negotiate with a cruise line for a better deal, it never hurts to ask. There are discounts offered by many cruise lines for certain groups such as veterans, seniors and previous cruisers. Travel agents may also be able negotiate better prices on your behalf.
It is better to book directly through the cruise line than a travel agents?
Both options are advantageous. Booking directly with the ship line may provide greater flexibility while booking through an agent can result in additional savings as well as expert advice.
All-inclusive cruises are a great deal.
Cruises that are all-inclusive can be a great bargain, especially when you plan on enjoying many activities and excursions aboard. To avoid any surprises, it's important to read the fine print.
Are shore excursions worth it?
Shore excursions can be a great way to explore your destination and participate in unique activities. Nevertheless, these excursions can be very expensive. You should only choose those that are well worth the cost and will fit into your budget.
How can I save money on drinks onboard?
It can be very expensive to buy drinks onboard, but there are some ways you can save. If you're planning on drinking a lot, cruise lines may offer drink packages. You can bring your own champagne or wine onboard, but you will have to pay a corkage.
FAQ
What do you get on your cruise?
Enjoyment is key. You don't need to go overboard - just enjoy yourself.
There are plenty of activities available for everyone. You can always talk to someone if you feel bored.
Cruising is about having fun and relaxing. It's not about doing everything possible to ensure you see as much as possible.
You can choose from short cruises around Europe or longer trips across the Pacific. The duration of the trip is determined by what you wish to accomplish during your vacation.
How does cruising work
A deposit is required to reserve a cabin for a cruise. It can range from $50-$100. Your balance is due 30 days before departure. You will check in to your cabin once you have arrived at the port. You can then take part in any of the onboard activities.
What 4 things determine the cost of a cruise?
The main factors that will determine the price of your cruise are how much time you want to spend aboard, whether or not you prefer an all inclusive package, how many guests you plan on bringing along, and what cabin type you have booked.
Are there any cons to cruising?
There are some things that you should be aware of when considering the pros and cons of cruising. Some people may decide that they don’t want to spend the entire vacation on a yacht. Others might prefer to stay closer to shore or in a hotel. Some people may feel uncomfortable living so far from land. However, these fears can be easily overcome by choosing a cruise that includes plenty of time ashore.
Is there food on a cruise that isn't expensive?
The answer is yes! All cruises include complimentary food. To enjoy the food, you will need to purchase drinks.
The cost of a cruise depends on the ship you're sailing on. For example, cruising aboard a luxury liner, you may expect to pay $20-$30 per person for each drink purchased. You'll probably pay around $10-15 per person if you sail onboard a smaller vessel.
Statistics
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
- You'll need to budget around $80 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. (travel.usnews.com)
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- In addition, 10 to 15 percent gratuity is typically added to bar bills — for alcohol and soft drinks — and gratuities are applied to spa treatments. (cruiseline.com)
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How To
How to stay safe while aboard a cruise vessel
On a cruise ship, there are many things you should know before embarking on your journey. To avoid getting into trouble, you must know how to behave onboard. These safety tips will ensure that you have a safe trip.
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At all times, be aware of your surroundings. People often gather onboard cruise ships to share meals. It is easy to lose sight of your task when you are surrounded by people who want food and chat. This should not distract from what you are supposed do. If you see someone doing something dangerous, like smoking or drinking alcohol, tell them politely to stop.
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Always keep your room key close to you when you board the ship, and hand over your room key to the person checking you in. If you get lost or need to be found, this will help you to locate your shipmates. Keep your passport with you.
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Keep valuables hidden from view. Most cabins have drawers under their beds. That's a great place to store valuables such as passports, credit cards, and money. Be sure to keep nothing valuable out of plain sight. Put your bags away in the closet so no one can see them.
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Keep hydrated. Although cruise ships offer plenty of water, it can be difficult to remember to drink enough. Use the free bottled water that is available onboard. Avoid becoming dehydrated. Dehydration can cause fatigue and make it difficult to concentrate, leading to arguments or even accidents.
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Always pay attention to announcements. Announcements are displayed everywhere, including on TV screens. They include safety procedures, emergency exits, and even weather reports. Pay attention to these announcements. These announcements might save your own life.
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Do not leave your cabin without first locking the door. No matter how kind a crew member might seem, your cabin should be locked. Thieves can often get in through unlocked doors. A crew member can grant permission to use the restroom.
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Do not go overboard by yourself. The crew will need to wait for you to be rescued if you do fall overboard. Your body may be attracted by sharks and other sea creatures. The best thing to do is wait until help arrives.
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Smoking is not permitted in elevators. These elevators are pressured, which means smoke can quickly build up. If you feel dizzy and lightheaded, it is best to get out immediately. You can still breathe even though it is outside fresh.
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Know the evacuation procedure. Every year, thousands are killed in elevator accidents. In an emergency, you should follow the instructions displayed on the screen.
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You should be familiar with fire drills. Fire drills happen regularly, usually once per day. During a drill, everyone on deck has to evacuate. Follow the crew members' directions. When the drill is finished, return to the cabin and lock your door.
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Before accepting food or drinks, ask questions. Cruisers are often concerned about food poisoning. Many people don't realize that certain foods aren't safe to eat while onboard a ship. On most cruise ships, raw oysters are prohibited. If you aren't sure if the food being offered to you is safe, politely decline and choose another meal.
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You should be cautious when swimming in the pool. Many people have fallen into the pools by accident. If this happens to you, tread water until someone notices you. It is possible to slip and tumble on the deck at any given moment. So always wear proper footwear and pay attention to your surroundings.