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Step 1
Now that you got a good deal on a cruise, make sure you keep it a good deal by keeping an eye on your money while on the cruise. I am sorry, this article has many "don'ts" but please keep in mind these are my opinions, if they are fun or important to you, by all means, enjoy!
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Step 2
First set your budget. I know, what fun is that? Well, if you set a budget you will only spend money on what you really want. Drinks are probably one of the biggest money makers on the cruise. I would like to hire some of the bartenders and cocktail servers as commissioned sales people, they are everywhere! Sometimes you end up with a drink before you even know you wanted one. Whether you are drinking soda pop or alcohol, these drinks can add up fast. So, watch what you're doing, usually there are free alternatives. Don't get me wrong, some of my best times on a cruise have been at a bar with my friends having drinks. By watching myself throughout the cruise, I have plenty in my budget to do so.
My wife and I watch the itinerary and many times you can find a rum social or wine tasting offered no charge. Some cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have a party with free drinks for returning guests. If you drink a lot of soda pop, some lines offer a prepay card where you can drink as much soda as you want. -
Step 3
The next area my wife and I don't quite agree on: shopping on the cruise. While she insists there are great deals, I am not so sure. I won't make a call on that one. As with anything, know what your buying and what a good deal really is. My father in law once went to an art auction where they were offering free drinks. Well, guess what, he came back with a couple of pictures. Good deal? Not so sure on that one.
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Step 4
If you haven't noticed every ship has a casino. There is a reason why every ship has a casino, casinos make money. Ok maybe you have a system, but odds are, you won't come out ahead in the casino, just like on land.
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Step 5
Finally, excursions are a great way to see the local sights. Some of the best excursions I have been on have been free. In Puerto Rico, you can do a walking tour. Some of the world's most famous beaches are only a cab fare away while on a cruise. When we went to St Marten with a group of friends, we rented a car and drove around the whole island. Do your research, and be safe. In some parts of the world wondering off the beaten path may lead to big trouble.
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Step 6
So there you are a few ideas to save a little money while on your cruise. Again, these are my opinions, the most important thing on your cruise is that it's yours and you can enjoy it and save money at the same time.
