Booking a cruise vacation is an exciting moment, but finding the best deals can be daunting. Very few vacationers know where to start! Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to find affordable and enjoyable cruise vacations.
In this guide, we’ll suggest insider tips to help you save money before you depart. Start a search today to score the best deals on cruise vacations.
Shutterstock: NAN728Book Early
Last-minute bookings used to be all the rage when it came to finding affordable cruises. Nowadays, the school of thought is virtually opposite: if you want a great deal, book early! 1 Many cruise lines offer early-bird discounts for travelers who book their cruise several months in advance. And these discounts can be significant, slicing up to 59% off the regular fare. 2
Beyond the savings, booking early also gives you a better selection of cabins, itineraries, and departure dates. Plus, you can also take advantage of payment plans, allowing you to pay for the cruise in installments rather than in one lump sum.
Consider An Off-Peak Season Cruise
Cruise lines tend to offer lower prices during off-peak season, when demand is lower. This means that you may be able to find significant discounts on the same cruise itinerary that would be much more expensive during peak season. 3
Secondly, during off-peak season, there are fewer crowds and lines, which means you can enjoy a more relaxed and personalized cruising experience. This can also provide easier access to amenities and activities that may be limited during peak season, such as spa treatments or specialty dining.
Why not combine discounts? During off-peak season, you may have more flexibility with your travel dates, allowing you to take advantage of last-minute deals or other promotions that may be available.
Repositioning Cruises
For the uninitiated, repositioning cruises occur when cruise ships are moving from one market to another (i.e. from Alaska to Hawaii). These cruises often offer unique itineraries and ports of call that are not available on regular cruises. Additionally, since these cruises are often one-way and have fewer port stops, they can be significantly cheaper and less busy. 4
Better yet, look into repositioning cruises that occur during off-peak season. While they may have fewer entertainment options, you’ll take advantage of lower prices and other discounts. Just make sure you know exactly how long you’ll be out at sea – and that you have the stomach for it!
Hire a Travel Agent
Many travelers don’t think about the old-fashioned rule of hiring a travel agent in the age of Expedia and Tripadvisor. However, travel agents have access to exclusive deals and promotions that are not available to the general public. This means that they can offer lower prices and more discounts than you may be able to find on your own. 5
Additionally, travel agents can also help you navigate the complex world of cruising and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. Their expert advice and recommendations can take into consideration your budget and personal interests. They can also help you avoid unnecessary expenses and hidden fees, such as port fees and taxes.
Finally, travel agents can provide peace of mind and support throughout the booking process and during your cruise. If any issues arise, such as itinerary changes or cancellations, your travel agent can help you navigate the situation and ensure that you’re getting the best possible outcome.
Potential Downsides
While all of these tips can score you amazing deals on cruises, they are not without potential downsides. Booking early may backfire if you wind up having to cancel for a reason that was unforeseeable at the time. With that same roll of the dice, taking an off-peak season cruise could mean that you’ll be catching stormy weather rather than sunny skies.
It’s good to keep in mind that repositioning cruises may involve longer periods of time at sea and fewer port days. Some travelers won’t be pleased about that. It’s also helpful to remember that using a travel agent can involve additional fees for their services. For each of these strategies, it’s important to research reputable associates and read the fine print.
A New Adventure Awaits
You can find the perfect cruise at an affordable price, with a little bit of effort and research. By prioritizing your budget and being flexible with your travel dates, you can make memories that will last a lifetime.
So why wait? Start exploring the many options for finding cruise deals today and get ready to set sail on a new adventure!
