How to Get a Great Deal on a Cruise Vacation

With so many cruise lines, and so many cruises to so many locations, it can be extremely overwhelming to figure out where to go and how much to spend. Here are some steps that will take the hassle out of the process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• A little time and dedication.

1. Time: Before you even go hunting for a cruise, find out how much time you can take off of work and other obligations. If you know this figure ahead of time, it will save a lot of time and time is money.
2. Money: How much money do you have to spend on your vacation? Figure out a range. For example, I would like to spend $3000 or less but, I can afford $4000 max. Now take off 25% for overhead costs like taxes, visas and onboard spending. That brings the range to $2250-$3000 to spend on the cruise and air fare (if applicable).
3. Cheap: Cheaper isn’t better. Consider the class of service you want. If you have a lot to spend, you may want to go on a higher class cruise line. Consider maybe Cunard line. If you don’t have a lot of money, look at Carnival or Disney. For most, a middle class such as Princess, Royal Caribbean or Holland America is the best route.
4. Cabin: The cabin is another thing that is a deal breaker for some people. Decide on your minimum requirements and then go up from there. Here are the general cabin options.
   Inside-Small, no window.
   Inside Window-Small, Window to the atrium (interior of the ship).
   Outside Obstructed-Small, Window to the outside but, there is something blocking part or all of the view such as a lifeboat.
   Standard Outside-Small, Window to the outside with a perfect view.
   Deluxe Outside-Larger, Window to the outside with a perfect view.
   Balcony-Same as a Standard Outside but, with a balcony.
   Mini-Suite-Deluxe Outside but, with a balcony.
   Suite-Very Large Cabin with a large balcony.
5. Location: Get an idea of where you want to go. Find an on-line website that handles lots of different cruise lines. You should be able to search for cruises based on your class, cabin, available funds and vacation days. Find three or more options you are interested in.
6. Shop: Write down the exact cruise line, ship, cabin and date that you would like. Make note of the on-line price as well. Start with a local Travel Agent. Tell them you saw this cruise at this price on-line and ask what they can offer that would be comparable. Being travel professionals, they will be able to identify if there is something that you did not see that may better suit your needs. Once they give you some options, nail down a specific cruise with your traveling companion(s).
7. Book Em: Before you book with the local travel agent, check on-line at a few more sites to see the prices for the exact package you decided on. Also, check with any memberships you have; AAA, Costco, Sams Club, American Express, ect. Often they can offer deals as well. When you find the absolute best rate, book it.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask about travel insurance and find out if it suits your needs.
• Don’t book too far out. Better deals may come up.
• Don’t book too close, you may not get a good cabin.