How to Afford a Cruise Vacation

Taking a cruise should be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life, but many people think it's too expensive to afford. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you have the time to book a cruise, you and your family can afford to go on one---if you just know a few helpful hints to get you started.

Instructions

1. Book early. This is one of the easiest ways to have the money available for a cruise. You'll have to put down a deposit, but you can pay a little at a time until a certain date when the entire amount is due (usually a month or two before you sail). If you plan to sail a year from now, you have almost 12 months to pay on your trip.

2. Drive to the port. Most of the cost of a cruise can be your transportation to the port. Driving is usually much cheaper than flying, though free air miles can cut down on air expenses.

3. Start a vacation savings account just for your vacation spending needs. Put in a few dollars each week and leave the money alone until your trip. This money can grow quite fast, and it never hurts to have extra cash when traveling.

4. Pay for your shore excursions in advance. You can book your shore excursions online and pay for them long before your trip. Ensure that you have enough funds to pay for them as you book them, since payment is due at the time of booking.

5. Ask your travel or booking agent for specials. A few specials can be available for cruises. For example, being a Florida resident if you're sailing from Florida or being a past guest can get you a discount. Discounts are also offered to current and former military members.