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| Tips to Find the Best Cruise Deals |
Cruises are extremely relaxing, but they can also be very expensive.
Luckily, using both online and offline resources, you can find deals
that make a cruise possible, even if you have a shoestring budget. How
can you ensure that you find a great cruise without spending tons of
money? Here are some simple tips for finding the best cruise deals.
Look for Online Cruise Deals
The
Internet is a plethora of travel resources. You can find sites
specifically for cruises, sites that offer cruise packages (which
include airfare, hotels and onboard amenities) and many more.
All
major cruise companies have official websites, which are good places to
start. Often, when there's no middleman, you can get the lowest fare for
your cruise. However, this isn't always the case, so shop around.
Travel-based websites could offer even better deals than you'll get
directly from the cruise company.
Work with a Travel Agent to Find Cruise Deals
While
the Internet is an excellent place to find travel deals, sometimes, you
can still get the best deals if you book your cruise vacation with a
travel agent. Travel agents have offices all over the country, and there
are likely a number of choices in your area. Ask for sample prices and
shop around. Travel agents get better prices if they sell a certain
number of tickets, and they pass those savings on to you.
Look for a Cruise Package
Sometimes,
a company may offer a cruise package that is more expensive than deals
you'll find elsewhere. But when you compare all the additions that are
included in the package, it could be the cheapest option. Look for a
package travel deal that includes your flight to the port, hotel
accommodations surrounding the dates of your departure and return, a
rental car if necessarily, meals while on the ship, activities and more.
A cruise that initially looks like the cheapest option may be expensive
when you start adding up the other costs. Packages are usually the best
deals.
Consider an Off-season Cruise
All cruise
destinations have an off-season. The weather might not be as good, and
you might not have as many activity options, but in general, you can
save hundreds of dollars by traveling during the off-season. There are a
few places where off-season cruises aren't available. For example,
Alaska's weather is much too stormy for winter cruises. If this is the
case for your location of choice, book travel time at the beginning or
end of the season, when rates will be slightly lower.
Ask about Cruise Ship Discounts
Sometimes
getting a better price is simply a matter of asking. Whether you're
booking your trip through a travel agent, working with an online
third-party site, or purchasing your ticket directly from the cruise
company, there are always hidden discounts if you know where to look.
Keep in mind that everything is negotiable. If you upgrade your cabin
options, are they willing to throw in free access to dancing classes
while on the ship? If you pay for it in advance, can you get a discount
on trips to ports? Think outside of the box and don't be afraid to ask.
Choose an Affordable Cruise Ship Cabin
Cruise
ship cabins usually fall within three price ranges. The most expensive
cabins will be on the top deck, with windows and maybe even a balcony.
Suites are also found in this price bracket. The second price range has
rooms on lower decks. These also have windows, but usually do not have
private outdoor space. To save the most money, book a room from the
third price level in the interior of the ship. These rooms are usually
smaller, and you won't have a window. But on a cruise, you won't spend
much time in your room anyway.
Avoid Hidden Cruise Ship Costs
Lastly,
for the best cruise deals, do your homework and find out about the
potential hidden costs. For example, on some cruise ships, you'll pay
extra to have your meals included, but you still have to pay for drinks.
That doesn't just mean alcoholic beverages. If you want a soft drink or
even water, you could pay a few dollars for every glass.
