How to Plan a Cheap All-Inclusive Cruise
One of the most inexpensive vacations you can take is to sail on an all-inclusive cruise. What could be better? Endless food, nightly entertainment and all the fun comes straight to you. Know what to look for in an all-inclusive cruise so you can get the best deal.
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Instructions
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Compare cruises from different cruise lines. All-inclusive is a general term and doesn't mean the same on all cruise lines. Decide on two or three similar cruises, then read the fine print and compare the prices. Some all-inclusive prices include alcohol and soft drinks while others do not. Check to see if shore excursions are included in the price.
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Consider booking through a travel agent. While you won't get a vastly different price than if you booked the cruise directly through the cruise line, you may get better onboard amenities booking through an agent. These include coupon vouchers, shipboard credits and welcome gifts to name a few. Be sure your cruise agent has sailed many times and takes time out to visit ships -- these people will be able to recommend specific cruise ships and cruise lines that are tailored to you based on their own personal experiences. A great cruise agent will be on the lookout for any price drops and will refund you accordingly -- but be sure to periodically check on the sailing price after you've booked, just in case.
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Book a sailing for an all-inclusive cruise in the off-season. Generally right before school gets out and right before it starts up again is when you will find cheap cruise rates. Prices can be dramatically lower during the off-season.
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Assemble a group to score a cheap all-inclusive cruise. Some cruise lines require 10 cabins being booked, and some just require two or more to have your party considered a "group." Booking multiple rooms may result in a big discount and other extra perks.
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Choose a cheaper stateroom. When booking an all-inclusive cruise, you'll notice that room prices vary depending on where they are on the ship. Generally, the higher the deck and the more toward the middle of the ship the room is located, the higher the cost. Save money by booking a "guaranteed stateroom." Instead of picking a specific room, just choose what class of room you'd like -- inside room, outside room or balcony. You'll be guaranteed a stateroom at the lowest price possible, but you could be placed anywhere on the ship. Usually if there is extra space/empty rooms when it comes time to board, if there is a more desirable room (i.e. mid-ship vs. all the way at the front) you'll be upgraded to the better location. The cost savings may be worth the gamble.
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Book your shore excursions through a private company. Prices are considerably higher when you book directly with the cruise line.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to lean on your cruise agent at all times; they are there to help you plan the perfect vacation.
Incidental charges can quickly add up, even on an all-inclusive cruise. Ask your cruise agent exactly what is included in the price.
References
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