How to Save Money on Alaska Cruises

Alaskan cruises offer breath taking scenery and wildlife viewing in concert with several enjoyable ports of call. Cruises are never cheap, but learn some ways to cut back on unnecessary costs while still enjoying your cruise up or down the Inside Passage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Book your airfare separately from you cruise. Most cruise lines will offer airfare together with your cruise as a package, but when broken down, the cost of the flight is almost never cheaper when booked as a package than you could find it on your own.

2. Once on the ship, the representatives of the cruise line will tell you about many fun and exciting day trips and adventures you can do at the different ports of call. They encourage you to book them quickly before they fill up. What they do not tell you is that the moment you step off the ship, there will be local employees right at the dock ready to sell you the same exact tours for half the price or even less. Wait and you will save.

3. To save on food costs, eat your lunches aboard the ship at the different ports of call when possible. The ship will be free for you to come and go all day long, and this is food you have already paid for.

4. If you would like to get some pampering at the ship's salon and spa, ask when you first arrive on board if there are any special events they are hosting. They may have some events where they will do facials, massages, etc that are very reduced in price because they use them as an opportunity to try to sell you the products they have used on you during the event.

[cherry67]

on 6/4/2009 my dream cruise-always wanted to go thanks for this useful information

[luv2laugh]

on 6/3/2009 Excellent tips for making an Alaskan Cruise more affordable. I have always wanted to go to Alaska. If I go on a cruise anywhere, actually, I will keep your tips in mind. Another thing to do regarding booking tours would be to research ahead of time, so you know you are choosing a good local company.