Family holidays are a significant expense, and they want to be right. We know families who chose the cheap option and had a terrible experience. Just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean it’s good. In fact, sometimes the opposite.
How To Find A Cheap Cruise Deal But Still Get Quality
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We are going to share how we get a cheaper cruise, or save money on our trip. When to get the best deals without compromising on the quality of your trip. Getting the best cruise deal is a case of having a strategy and sticking to it.
1. Book Your Cruise Early
Booking your cruise well in advance can often result in significant savings. Cruise lines offer early bird discounts to fill their cabins quickly. Plan your trip at least 2 years ahead to take advantage of these deals. The best time to get them is when they are released. Also this is the best time to get a family cabin, 3 and 4 berth cabins sell out quick as do those prime holiday spots.
2. Be Flexible with Dates
Flexibility with your travel dates can help you find the best deals. Cruises during the shoulder seasons, just before or after peak season are typically cheaper. Of course this isn’t always an option for families, however be aware of any bonus holiday weeks your school may have, to get a great off peak deal. For traveling couples traveling off peak is always a way to avoid crowds and get a great deal.
3. Look For Last-Minute Deals
If you have a flexible job or schedule, consider waiting for last-minute deals. Cruise lines offer discounted rates as the departure date approaches to fill remaining cabins. Sign up for newsletters and alerts from cruise lines to stay informed about these offers. You can also search cruise lines with departure date first to find these deals. Families beware, there are rarely any 3 or 4 berth cabins as late deals.
4. Use a Travel Agent
Travel agents often have access to exclusive deals and discounts that aren’t available to the public. They can also provide valuable advice and assistance in finding the best cruise for your budget and preferences. Our agent, Kieran, who we have used for a couple of years, is ready on cruise release dates, he knows what we want and looks for the best deal. In two years he hasn’t disappointed.
5. Check for Group Rates
If you like cruising with friends, traveling with a group can lead to significant savings. Many cruise lines offer special group rates and perks when you book multiple cabins. Even if you’re not traveling with a large party, look for group packages that can be split among friends or family.
6. Look for Package Deals
Consider booking a cruise package that includes amenities like drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities into the fare at a discounted rate. These depend on the cruise line, but NCL and Celebrity offer great deals with drinks packages, some wifi and gratuities.
7. Join Loyalty Programs
If you frequently cruise with a particular line, join their loyalty program. Members often receive exclusive offers, discounts, private lounges and onboard credits. The higher levels, such as Diamond on Royal Caribbean also offer 4 free drinks per day which is a big saving.
8. Consider Repositioning Cruises
Repositioning and transatlantic cruises, where ships move from one region to another (e.g., from the Caribbean to Europe), can be less expensive than regular itineraries. These cruises often offer more days at sea and with some ports, providing a different experience at a lower cost.
9. Use Credit Card Points and Rewards
Check if your credit card or shopping cards offers points or rewards that can be redeemed for cruise bookings, such as Tesco and British Airways. We like to cruise from the Caribbean in winter for a bit of winter sun and use our air miles to book the flights. Flights to the Caribbean using air miles can cost as little as £150 return. Amex now also offer extra Avios points if you book a Royal Caribbean cruise with you American Express.
Also See, Things You Wouldn’t Expect To To See On A Cruise Ship
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