How to find cheap cruises PDF Print E-mail
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Thinking of booking a cruise? 2 minutes of reading this article could easily save you $200 

Thinking about a cruise? If you look online you can find one for less money.  Although the majority of people interested in a cruise work through their travel agents, it is more expensive that way because you have to pay service fees - and the rates may be different too.  Better check the internet for some of the best discounts.
 
Learn the cruise lines language, words like “guaranteed staterooms”, “run-of-the-ship” and “singles supplement”.  It is best to check with vacation dealers such as Expedia or Travelocity, or CruiseDirect.com, a site whose sole purpose is to arrange a great cruise for people just like you.  You will save more with these sites than if you book directly through the cruise line sites such as Princess, Royal Caribbean, or Carnival.  The online travel sites help you save by either acquiring cabins ahead of time and passing the savings on to you, or because they have direct access to the database of the cruise company.  They can tell you about the best deals to help you save money on your cruise.
 
Once you understand what the online travel sites are all about you should be able to find good discounts, depending of course on the cruise ship itself, the itinerary of the cruise and what time of year you want to go.

Finding the cruise for you

  • Watch for what is known as an “inaugural cruise”.  Cruise lines sometimes offer discounted prices on a new cruise, which is advertised mostly by hearing a recommendation from a friend or acquaintance.  This is generally the best type of advertising.
  • Another possibility for a good price is to find a “repositioning cruise”.  Sometimes ships are moved from one region of the world to another because of changes in the demand.  Rather than move these ships empty, they offer you a great price for a cruise as the ship is “repositioned”.
  • Keep your eyes open for “last minute specials” online.  With travel sites offering specially designed search tools or sending you email alerts about the best deals, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a cruise that’s right for you.

Keep in Mind 

  • Prices are constantly going up, so discount prices are not always available.  The best time for discounts is right before or right after a holiday.  This is called off-season or “shoulder season”. 
  • So you’re saving money, but read all the fine print, so you’ll understand what problems could come up.  Sometimes the cruises change their itinerary and it is not likely you can do anything about it.
  • If you’re taking a plane to the ship, the cruise lines might tell you that they will hold the ship if you’re late, but only if you reserve your flight through them too.  Check this carefully, because it may not be worth it for you.
  • When reserving, check to make sure exactly what your money is buying and if there is anything it does not cover.
  • When you get off the ship at a “port of call” you’ll save money by exploring on your own instead of paying extra for an organized tour.
  • You will save money by buying your own travel insurance, instead of buying it through the cruise line websites.
If you have reserved places on a cruise ship don’t be shy about calling the toll-free customer service line – or send an email - to ask any questions you may have.  Good luck in finding the cruise that’s right for you at the right price!
 
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