How to Book a Cheap Cruise
There is truly no vacation like a cruise. To cruise, you simply arrive at a giant floating paradise, climb on board and enjoy luxuries and fine food to your heart’s content. Of course all of this comes with a price, but there are great deals available on cruises – especially in Florida. Combine a cheap cruise with a discount flight and short stay in one of the many Orlando hotels and you’ll have an entire tropical vacation for far less than you might imagine.
Go Where the Cruises Are
If you’re interested in finding a cheap cruise, you need to start by spending some time on websites dedicated to package vacations including cruises. Some websites include only information about cruises which may have the most generous offers although be sure to check with at least a few sites to see what offers are available. To get the cheapest rate, you’ll need to plan on a few things.
Off-season Travel
The primary consideration for cruise prices is the time of travel. If you want to cruise over New Years or during Spring Break, you can expect to pay far more than if you’re brave enough to tackle hurricane season. As most cruises, excluding Alaskan cruises, in the United States start in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Florida coast, weather conditions during hurricane season have a very real impact.
August through November are the least expensive months to cruise, but prices can still range quite a bit. Labor Day and Thanksgiving will be higher due to more travelers than mid September or October. The prices are lower not only because the fall is not the most popular time for the masses to travel (or cruise), but also because being caught on a cruise ship in the middle of a tropical disturbance can make even the most seasoned cruiser a bit green around the gills.
That’s not to mention the possibility that your cruise will be delayed, cut short or canceled should a tropical storm or hurricane enter the scene. Strongly consider insurance if it’s not included with your tickets.
Economy Berths
You don’t pay cheap rates for the best cabins. While all cabin prices onboard the ship are likely reduced tremendously during sales or off season travel, the least expensive rooms with the economy class berths. These rooms consist of a postcard sized shower, toilet, sink and one bunk bed. There is no window and no view although you will still have a television and a staff member to turn down your blankets, fluff your one pillow and leave you a mint. Be sure you bring along plenty of cash for tips for said employee as well.
Staying in an economy birth sounds like the dregs and it is. Fortunately, you don’t actually do much in your room besides change clothes, shower and sleep. The rest of the time you’re on the decks enjoying the same food, pools, activities, and shows and the rest of the guests – including those who are paying big bucks to look out a tiny window or sit on a closet sized balcony.
Cruise Sober
To cruise cheaply, you must avoid the most expensive aspect of the trip. Everything is included in a cruise package except trips at various locations, or excursions, and alcohol. The trips are optional and you can still hop off the boat and poke around local establishments without paying for a tour guide.
There is even a simple way to get around the outrageous prices for drinks – bring your own. Check discreetly with your cruise line, but many have no rules against bringing your own wine, champagne or other alcohol on board the ship. Of course they don’t advertise this and may discourage you, but if it’s not illegal or against policy, there is nothing stopping you.
Of course the other cheap alcohol option is to simply not consume any. Stick to water and soft drinks and then gorge on the midnight buffets to get your fill of special treats.
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Posted in Travel, Travel Preparation
