Top Cost-Saving Tips When Cruising

In uncertain economic times people are looking to make the most out of every penny. This is no different when traveling. Cruising naturally provides a great value, yet there are some tips to help further save money while traveling. 

“Because of the incredible variety of cruises, cruise ships, itineraries and destinations available, consumers can find even greater value and stretch their vacation dollar further by choosing the right cruise for their budget,” said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA). 

Here are some tips for planning a value-added cruise vacation:

1. If the dollar is tight, the cabin type is one area to save monies. A balcony cabin, what is known as a verandah category, is more expensive than an ocean-view or an interior. Regardless of stateroom category, passengers have the same dining and entertainment access.
2. There are sailings of varying lengths. From a three-night to a year-long itinerary. Do not discount a shorter cruise as the experience is the same…just shorter. Although note that traditionally the shorter cruises are older vessels.
3. Typically, mid-June through mid-August is peak time for Caribbean and Alaska cruises due to nature of sailings and to when kids are out of school. For lower prices, consider early May-timeframe or after Labor Day.
4. Avoid sailing during holiday weeks, such as Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas as cabins can be almost double the cost compared to other voyages.
5. According to CLIA, “with a weak U.S. dollar, planning a European cruise and paying in advance, in dollars, often represents added value compared to a European vacation paid in local currencies.”
6. Pay with a travel rewards credit card. You’ll get special rewards if you apply for a credit card that is a travel rewards credit card. Visa has some of these, although the Visa credit card application can sometimes be more length.
7. Group savings are offered on many cruise lines, translating to on-board credits, extra amenities, cabin upgrades and more. Traditionally, a group is defined as 16. A big bonus with group cruises is the offered tour conductor credit, which means that someone can cruise for free depending on how many “beds” are sold. This savings can be realized by one or spread across the entire group.
8. There are more than 30 cruise ship ports in the United States, as stated by CLIA. “Wherever you live, pick a cruise you can drive to in order to save on the cost of airfare.” By driving, you will also avoid paying the newly imposed luggage charges by most airlines, which adds up.
9. Traveling internationally via air incurs an extra cost due to a required U.S. Passport ($75 application fee and $25 execution fee); however, for cruises departing and returning from a U.S. port, a passport is not required…only a certified, raised-seal birth certificate and official photo id.
10. Alcohol is not allowed to be brought aboard; however, bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages can be. This can result in savings, as these purchases on the ship are not included in the cruise price for most ships. Luxury cruises tend to include non-alcoholic beverages in its pricing.
11. Pre-arrange any desired shore excursions independent of the cruise line. First, identify desired activities for each port of call, whether snorkeling in Antigua, swimming with the stingrays in Cayman Islands, or renting ATVs in St. Lucia.  Booking directly with a tour company typically yields a savings.
12. Pre-pay gratuities prior to sailing. An advantage of selecting this option is guests don’t feel obligated to give more unless by choice. If travelers wait until they are on board, they might give more than they budgeted.
13. Look for onboard specials. The daily cruise newsletter outlines offered discounts including a drink of the day, a bonus bingo card, shopping sales, fitness and spa specials to further increase savings.

By applying these travel tips, a cruiser can save money and be able to use these saved funds on items they deem important to them during their cruise or even put these saved monies toward a travel fund for their next escape.