Traveling Doesn't Have to Break the Bank
Cruises are one of the best ways to explore new areas, allowing you the chance to relax while immersing yourself in new cultures, cuisines and landscapes. Despite the wide variety of cruises that are on offer, they’re known for being expensive. However, it's possible to find affordable cruise options. In this article we'll go over tips to help you learn how to find the best cruise deals.
Plan Early
The most important tip to remember is that cruises are always cheaper when booked far in advance.
Do your research, choose a destination and book early. It can save you a lot of money down the line. Not only are prices hiked up last minute, but early bookers are more likely to secure promotions and deals.
Some cruise companies offer onboard credit, complimentary day trips or experiences and food and drinks deals to those who book early.
Flash Sales
While the most stable option is to book early and receive discounts, some travelers have waited for flash sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. However, it can be difficult to book time off work or make other arrangements if making last-second travel decisions, so this option may not appeal to everyone.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises offered a 30% discount to all who booked on Black Friday this year and P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Hays Cruises had their own Black Friday deals. These help travelers receive the best prices on their dream holidays.
Sometimes you can also find deals where third or fourth passengers travel for free. Looking for discounted on-board packages and day trips can also save money.
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Book in Wave Season
The months between January and March are known as the ‘wave season’ to cruisers. During this period, cruise lines will offer great deals that will allow you to slash hundreds, if not thousands, off the price of your vacation.
While discounts during wave season are desirable, they don’t last long. If you want to make the most of these offers, you’ll have to research beforehand to know exactly which cruise line and destinations to choose. This three-month window will fly by if you wait until the New Year to research destinations, lines, budgets and excursions.
Research Shoulder Seasons
Depending on where you’d like to cruise, each destination will have its own shoulder season. For example, one of the most popular cruise spots is the Caribbean. Shoulder season here sits in the fall and winter months.
It’s worth researching when the shoulder season starts for your preferred destination to get lower fares.
Go Off-Peak
After you’ve researched shoulder seasons, you may choose to go off-peak to get more bang for your buck. The most common time for Americans and Europeans to cruise is during the colder winter months. November to February is jam-packed of passengers seeking winter sun, so prices during these months will be much higher.
Depending on your schedule, you could opt to cruise at a quieter time of year, which will naturally bring the prices down.
Consider Joining Loyalty Programs
If you’re a regular cruiser and have a favorite cruise line, it may be worth signing up to their loyalty programs. Sticking to the same cruise line and joining their loyalty programs can offer huge discounts and even free cruises occasionally.
Most cruise line loyalty programs use a points system that will contribute to deals, benefits and perks.
Read Newsletters
Staying up to date with cruise lines, their destinations, deals and year plans can ensure that you have access to the best deals before they’re swept up by regular passengers.
With access to the best deals early, you’re likely to get the best deal with your favorite cruise line.
Consider a Travel Agent
Even if you’re an independent traveler and enjoy planning yourself, it’s no secret that travel agents have the knowledge and access to guarantee the safest and best deals.
By using a travel agent to help you scout out the best cruise deals, you know you won’t leave any stone unturned and can book a cruise knowing it’s the best value possible.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of what part of the world you’re hoping to cruise around, there are heaps of ways to help you get there for the best value. Knowing how to find cruise deals isn't a secret.
By considering booking with travel agents, signing up to loyalty programs and newsletters and scouting out the best times to book, you can save yourself a chunk of money that can be spent elsewhere. If in doubt, plan and book early for guaranteed lower prices.