If itโs cold and miserable where you live and you want some warmth, you might be dreaming of a cruise vacation. Whether traveling to the Mediterranean islands or sailing down the Mexican Riviera, a cruise is a great idea to chase the blues away. But how on earth can you go on a cruise without spending a lot of money? Well, donโt worry, it can be done.
Choose Your Cruise Wisely
The first thing to do is to get hold of the brochures. There are various types of cruise lines to choose from; river cruises, ocean cruises or adventure cruises and you can decide what you can afford. On offer could be small ships, yachts, larger sailing vessels, river ships or barge holidays and luxury cruise ships.
When you are choosing with your budget, you need to have in mind the ports and/or destinations, the number of days for the trip and the cabin styles. Also bear in mind the cost of getting to and from the embarkation/ and disembarkation ports which may, of course, be different. Take into account any overnight hotels etc. If it is for one night only, you donโt need the most expensive room.
If you are going on your own, search out the best offer for a solo traveler. Always check the brochure for hidden extras and what is actually included.
Seek Out Money-Saving Deals
Ask your travel agent to search out the best deals, as there are often early bookings, late bookings and sales, and unsold cabin discounts. Ask the cruise line to notify you of any possible free upgrade deals.
When you have all that information, check out the cruise lines which include a drinks and tips package. It is well worth arranging credit before you travel, which will insure that you keep within your budget.
Donโt forget that you can save a lot of money on exchange rates if you change your money at the right time. And if you pay with plastic, always pay in the local currency, and never accept the conversion.ย
Finding a Package That Suits Your Budget
Are you looking for an inside cabin or an outside cabin, a cabin with a balcony or one with extra facilities included? This will all depend on your budget. Would you be willing to share? If you are on a tight budget, take the lowest package. It would be lovely to have a huge bedroom and sitting room with room for a multitude of luggage, but remember that there will always be places all around the ship where you can sit in comfort, eat and swim.ย
Pick Your Excursions Carefully
As soon as you can, book any free excursions and ask everyday if anyone has dropped out.
Instead of paying to go on the coaches to see places you might not want to see, try to see if you can find a taxi which would give you a daily rate. This would allow you to see what you want for as long as you want, rather than 10 minutes on each stop and back to the bus! Or if there are no excursions which have been arranged, go to the taxi rank as soon as the ship has docked and you can leave the ship, and do it yourself. A lot of the ports are near to a town center and walking through them can be a delight.
A cruise doesnโt have to cost the earth. With a few savvy tips and tricks, you can get the joy of a sea voyage without breaking the bank. And however you travel, and no matter how small your cabin is, you will have the excitement of seeing the sky, the sea and the world in all its beauty.
