Everybody loves a bargain, right? Cruisers just might be at the top of that list, but remember, it’s a jungle out there when it comes to finding them.
There are as many cruise “bargains” as there are websites advertising them, so it makes sense to do some comparison shopping before booking your cruise. There is one caveat. You have to like shopping, like me.
Here are my “ten tips” for doing your research:
1. If you’re over 55, check the rates for seniors. There may be some conditions, but usually the price applies if at least one passenger in the stateroom is 55+ (I knew there was a benefit to being married to an older man!)
2. Watch for free upgrades. That means a better stateroom may be available at no charge, moving you from one inside category to another inside category or to a better oceanview category. Note: You won’t likely be moved from an inside cabin to an oceanview.
3. Returning passengers can often work better deals. Most cruise lines have a loyalty program, so be sure to let them know you’ve been on their ships before and, — who knows? — there may be savings available.
4. Re-positioning cruises are usually a bargain. When ships “re-position”, or move from one geographical area to another for changing seasons — like from the Caribbean to Europe, or North America to South America (and back again) — prices usually come down. Our experience is that these deals are great!
5. Lower deposits required, or immediate payment at time of booking, can save money. You may as well collect the interest instead of the cruise line. One example is Crystal Cruise Lines, which offers a discount for paying six months in advance.
6. Watch for back-to-back cruises. There may be a discount if you book two 7-day cruises that sail on consecutive weeks on the same ship.
7. If you are flying to your embarkation port, ask about reduced or free airfare possibilities. One advantage to having the cruise line make flight arrangements is that they are “responsible” for getting you there in time for the cruise. That generally means any issues with flights and cruises not connecting because of something unforeseen, they’ll fix it.
8. Fares for second, third or fourth passengers in a stateroom are sometimes deeply discounted. That’s an especially good deal if you’re planning on taking kids with you. The bad news is you do have to take the kids with you.
9. Guaranteed cabins could be a great deal. If you let the cruise line decide on the specific cabin you are assigned, it may turn out that you’re in a better location on the ship. They guarantee you won’t be assigned a cabin in a lesser category than you’re charged.
10. Always ask if value-added perks are available. This could mean shore excursions, spa visits or 2-for-1 dinners in specialty restaurants. Sometimes a coupon book for onboard “deals” is a plus.
That’s it, I’m done.