With so many cruise companies, deals and destinations to choose from, it can often seem quite overwhelming, especially if you are new to the world of cruising. I have been on over 20 cruises and during this time I have picked up some insider knowledge which can help to save both time and money when planning for your holiday. Read on to find out more.
Tip # 1 – Flexibility = Savings
The more flexible you can be when you book your cruise the more savings you can expect to make. I, personally book my holiday before taking the time off work – this enables me to choose a departure time on a lower priced cruise, without having set dates to work to. This will of course depend on whether you are willing to risk not being allowed the time off work. If you do only have certain dates to work to, keep in mind that cruises that happen outside of peak season are going to be much cheaper than cruises that happen during school or religious holidays.
Tip # 2 – Past Passenger Specials
Almost all major cruise lines have a loyalty club for their members which includes special benefits and discounts. I am signed up to two loyalty clubs and I definitely think it is worth it. If you have already been on one cruise, it is a good idea to contact the company and mention when you travelled. Sometimes a company will credit you for this and depending on the length of the cruise it can mean a difference between a silver or a gold membership. Your membership level will determine the discounts and benefits you are entitled to.
Tip # 3 – Check for Group Rates
If you are planning to travel as part of a group there is a good chance that you will receive a further discount on the price. Some cruise agencies are able to offer a discount of up to 20% depending on the size of your party and you may also receive some discounts or benefits when it comes to the shore excursions. Make sure that you actually like the people in your party though as it is likely that for the discounts to be valid you will have to spend time with every member of the group (on excursions for example).
Tip # 4 – Arrange Your Own Air Tickets
Some cruise holidays will require you to fly to a certain destination before you actually board the cruise. Although most travel agencies can include this as part of your travel, it is often much cheaper to book your cruise and your air travel separately. Make sure that you leave yourself enough time though between arriving at your destination and the time your cruise leaves – you don’t want to be left behind. Savvy cruisers like myself will invest in a hotel close by to the harbour for the night before the cruise departs so if there are any flight delays, it won’t cause too much of a problem.
Tip # 5 – Book Conclusive Travel Insurance
As you can see from the tip above, things do sometimes go wrong and this is why travel insurance is so important. Whether it is a missed departure, lost baggage or a problem on an excursion, your travel insurance can cover any costs you may have to pay. When you book travel insurance do not opt for the cheapest option but rather opt for one that covers everything. If you are planning to scuba dive, you will need extreme sports cover, the same goes for other excursions that may have activities that are not necessarily included in a normal insurance plan. Sometimes a cruise company will have their own travel insurance policies and these may be cheaper than other companies.
Author Bio
To make sure you get the best deals for your money, make sure to visit the Major Cruise website. Major Cruise can help you compare any type of cruise from cheap Caribbean cruises to luxury Mediterranean cruises – ensuring you have the holiday of a lifetime at a price that suits you!
