Money-Saving Tips for Your Next Cruise Vacation
The word is out — cruise vacations are fun, relaxing, and increasingly popular. With more travelers looking to visit several destinations without the hassle of unpacking multiple times, cruises on oceans and rivers are seeing passenger growth each year. Consequently, new ships are being constructed to accommodate this rising demand.
Cruising can be economical, and there are various strategies to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Researching, planning, savvy spending, and comparing different cruises will help you achieve this goal. It’s essential to keep in mind that while saving money is important, you also want to enjoy your trip and be comfortable with your decisions. Therefore, sometimes it may be worth investing a bit more to obtain what’s significant for you. Here’s how you can save money on a cruise, allowing you to splurge where it counts.
1. Book your cruise early—or late.
If you’re interested in a high-demand cruise on a new ship during peak season, lower prices are often available when cruise itineraries are first published, sometimes as early as two years in advance. Prices generally rise as the ship fills up, and booking early may be the only way to guarantee a spot or specific cabin type, especially on luxury cruise lines.
For those flexible with their schedules, there is often an opportunity to secure good deals around 90 days prior to sailing. During this time, cancellations can lead to available spots at reduced rates. Additionally, pricing may drop between January and March, known as wave season, possibly accompanied by perks such as free upgrades. Tracking fares through apps like Shipmate or visiting sites that report deals like Cruise Critic can further enhance your chances of landing a deal.
2. Figure out what’s included.
Cruises often market themselves as all-inclusive vacations; however, what’s included can differ significantly by cruise line. Prior to booking, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with any additional fees, taxes, excursions, gratuities, baggage charges, and costs for alcoholic beverages or other possible expenses. By utilizing resources such as cruise line websites, promotional brochures, and newsletters, you can effectively compare options across different cruise lines.
While some less-inclusive cruise lines might appear budget-friendly, you could end up spending more in the long run, particularly if you indulge in premium offerings onboard. Additionally, consider how you’ll reach your port of embarkation—whether you’ll fly internationally or drive to a domestic port for your departure can significantly affect costs.
For cruises with optional beverage packages, assess your drinking habits. Pre-paying for a beverage plan could be economical if you typically enjoy a few drinks daily. Conversely, if you’re a light drinker, paying on a per-drink basis might be wiser. Evaluate what’s included in your plan carefully before making any commitments, knowing that decisions regarding drink packages can often be made once aboard the ship.
3. Work with a travel advisor.
Travel advisors are adept at unearthing fantastic deals and can assist you in selecting the appropriate cruise line, ship, stateroom, and itinerary that align with your budget and preferences. Given that comprehending and comparing cruise fares can be time-consuming, the guidance of a knowledgeable advisor can alleviate much of the hassle. Often, there’s no added cost for booking through an advisor, and many specialize in cruise experiences. Some agents may even secure deals before they are made public, potentially leading to savings.
4. Be flexible when choosing your stateroom.
Reflect on your personal preferences regarding staterooms. Is a balcony indispensable? Do you require more space for comfort, or do you have a specific deck or location in mind? By contemplating these questions, you can make a more informed decision. If you’re traveling solo, compare single supplements or search for cruise lines offering single cabins or lower-cost options.
If flexibility is on your side, consider booking a “guarantee” or unassigned cabin. This means you select a cabin category, and the cruise line assigns the exact cabin. Keep in mind that while this may mean accepting a less desirable location, there’s also a possibility of being placed in a better stateroom than would otherwise be available.
5. Plan your own shore excursions.
Guided shore excursions can quickly consume your entire budget. Instead of feeling pressured to participate in every offered activity, devise some of your own, allowing you to allocate funds to experiences that truly matter to you. Begin by researching what you wish to experience at every port; whether you’d prefer exploring independently or opting for a single destination rather than rushing through several.
Many local tour operators frequent the ports, ready to fill remaining seats in their vehicles, which means good deals can often be negotiated if you’re comfortable doing so. Additionally, on days when most passengers are off the ship, cruise lines frequently offer spa discounts, giving you an opportunity to save money while treating yourself.
6. Pack and shop smartly.
Onboard toiletries and incidentals can be surprisingly pricey, so comprehensive planning is key. Ensure you pack what you need in advance. For grooming, it’s typically more economical to handle manicures, pedicures, and haircuts before departing. Of course, for some, indulging in pampering at onboard salons is part of the cruising experience.
While most cruise lines restrict guests from bringing hard liquor onboard, some permit guests to carry a bottle or two of wine. This can be a great way to save money if you wish to enjoy a glass of wine during your trip. Be wary of the impulse to purchase souvenir photos or gifts onboard, but remember, if you are ready to commit to your next cruise, you might secure a discount by planning while on board.
7. Prepare for the worst.
It’s advisable to check your medical insurance to ensure coverage in your destination, especially for international cruises, where serious health issues may necessitate hospitalization. Should your health plan lack adequate overseas coverage, consider purchasing travel health insurance. Note that some insurance policies may not cover injuries from high-risk activities, so consult your provider. Finally, pack all necessary prescription and non-prescription medications in their labeled containers.
8. Consider unplugging.
Connectivity on cruise ships has improved, with most now offering Wi-Fi. Nonetheless, service can still be inconsistent, and even basic packages can become quite costly. Whether you splurge for Wi-Fi or select a luxury cruise with inclusive internet, understanding your cell provider’s services is essential to avoiding additional charges. A beneficial strategy for enjoying your cruise fully is choosing to unplug from technology during your voyage and reserving internet usage for port stops. This not only helps dodge frustration with slow connections but will also allow you to immerse yourself in the moment and relish your time at sea.
