Money $aving Tips

This page provides an ever-growing list of money saving tips when cruising. The only thing better then going on a great cruise is going on a great cruise for little money!

1. Plan to go on your cruise in advance - By planning your cruise in advance, you can take advantage of early booking bonuses that many cruise brokers and cruise lines offer.

2. Plan your cruise in the "off" season - The best theory Economists ever discovered is that when demand is high, supplies generally become low, and the price goes up. If everyone is going on a cruise at the same time, the cruise lines have no incentive to lower their prices. Plan to go just before the prime season, or just afterwards. You'll still have a great time.

3. Book the lowest price cabin on the ship on the inside (without a window). The only purpose for the cabin is to get dressed, sleep, and store your luggage. All the cruise activities are up on the decks - not in the cabins! (Who really needs a window anyway?)

4. Purchase airfair on your own, if possible. You may wish to use your own discounted airfare such as frequent flyer miles, coupons, vouchers, etc.

5. Some cruise lines offer advanced purchase options on things purchase on board such as bar drinks, and tuxedo rentals. Many times these are offered at large discounts over what you would pay for on your own.

6. If you drink, B.Y.O.B. Of course cruise lines shrug their shoulders at this, but drinks can and will get expensive after a week cruise. Bring a couple of bottles and store them in your room. You may also wish to purchase booze during your travels at different ports (i.e., Puerto Rico rum, etc.)

7. Purchase your own ground transportation from the airport to the ship. Many times cruise lines include this as an option at inflated prices (especially Puerto Rico and Miami).

8. Plan your shore excursions well in advance of the cruise. Many times, the ship will sell the same excursions you can get on your own, but at a premium price. Sometimes, the excursion may only involve a cab ride to a beach. (The cruise line will try to get your money any way they can).

9. Use coupons when booking your cruise. There are several sources: Cruise broker coupons, Entertainment book, Cruise Line coupon, Travel club/insurance coupons, etc. You may have to research.

10. If you book a cruise in advance, check back periodically with competing cruise brokers, and the cruise line. If another has the same cruise at a lower price then what you paid, you can ask your cruise broker to lower the price.

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