Cruises are a fantastic option to enjoy an incredible vacation, but the price can be high if we do not know how to optimize our budget. Luckily, there are many tricks and strategies to save on a cruise without having to give up the fun.
We are going to see different ways to spend less in the different stages: before, during and after the trip. They are very useful ideas for families, couples or groups of friends. Let’s detail each suggestion and then talk about them:
| # | Tip | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Book your cruise in advance | Prices tend to rise as the travel date approaches |
| 2 | Look for deals or promotions on websites or travel agencies | To get discounts |
| 3 | Travel during off-season | When prices are cheaper |
| 4 | Compare prices of excursions with other companies | Those offered by the ship tend to be more expensive |
| 5 | Pack everything you need in your suitcase | To avoid expensive purchases on the ship |
| 6 | Join travel groups on social media | For tips, ideas, and recommendations |
| 7 | Buy a drink package | If you plan to drink a lot of alcohol on board |
| 8 | Compare what each cruise includes | Fees, tips, meals… |
| 9 | Book as a group | There may be discounts for multiple cabins |
| 10 | Look for free kids offers | In some cases, up to 17 years old |
| 11 | Book a guaranteed cabin | It’s cheaper and you get the same or better |
| 12 | Large room for family | May be cheaper than two smaller rooms |
| 13 | Look for frequent traveler discounts | If you have already traveled with that company |
| 14 | Choose an all-inclusive package | To avoid worrying about extra expenses |
| 15 | Avoid spending on spa, hair salon, etc. | Very expensive services on board |
| 16 | Buy souvenirs at the ports | Cheaper than in the ship’s stores |
| 17 | Put your mobile phone in airplane mode | To avoid roaming charges |
| 18 | Don’t buy internet | Download content before setting sail |
| 19 | Eat at included restaurants | Without extra charges |
| 20 | Shop in stores on the last day | To take advantage of sales |
| 21 | Check the onboard journal | To see free activities |
| 22 | Bring your own snacks | For kids’ excursions |
| 23 | Share a taxi with other passengers | To reduce costs on excursions |
| 24 | Don’t spend much on souvenirs | Only if they excite you |
| 25 | Steam it in the bathroom | Instead of using the ship’s laundry |
| 26 | Take your own photos | Don’t buy those from the professional photographer |
| 27 | Don’t go to the casino | The house always wins |
| 28 | Participate in free contests | To win prizes |
| 29 | Bring your own wine if allowed | Cheaper than buying on the ship |
| 30 | Check your bill on the last day | To spot incorrect charges |
| 31 | Request a refund of unused credit | If you had onboard credit to spend |
| 32 | Book your next cruise on board | They often have better offers |
| 33 | Find out if you can bring wine onto the ship | Some cruise lines allow it |
Book early and look for deals
The first thing to do is to book your cruise as far in advance as possible. The closer you get to the date, the more expensive it will be. So, as soon as you know the approximate dates, start your search.
Take the opportunity to compare prices on specialized websites such as Vacations to Go. In the United States there is a lot of competition in the sector, so they usually have great deals and discounts.
You can also look for promotions in traditional travel agencies. And if you have flexibility with the dates, travel better in low season when prices go down.
Choose your cabin wisely
When booking, look closely at what is included in each offer. Compare taxes, tips, transfers, meals, on-board credit… This will ensure you choose the most economical option.
Opt for a guaranteed cabin if you can. You won’t know exactly which one you will get, but it will always be the same or better than the one you selected. This way you are assured of a good price and often you will be assigned a superior cabin.
If you are traveling in a group, consider booking a large room to share instead of several separate small rooms. It may be more profitable.
Bring your own drinks and entertainment
One of the main expenses on board is usually drinks. So if you plan to consume a lot of alcohol, buying a drinks package can be a good investment.
You can also bring your own bottles of wine if the ship allows it. Check the policy of each company.
As for entertainment, bring movies, books, board games… Everything you need to entertain yourself without having to pay the high internet prices on board. Download content before sailing and you will have enough for the days of navigation.
Take advantage of the services and activities included
Read carefully the information about everything included in the price. There are usually buffets, restaurants, swimming pools, shows, discos, gyms… Make the most of them.
Also participate in all the free activities and contests. It’s a fun way to enjoy your time on board and you might even win a prize.
Buy souvenirs at the end (or don’t buy at all).
The cruise stores are often overpriced. Wait until the last day when they have discounts and special offers. Or better yet, buy your souvenirs at the ports you visit. You’ll find more variety and better prices.
And if you really want to save, avoid buying unnecessary souvenirs. Instead, bring some useful and practical gifts for your loved ones. They will surely appreciate it more.
Other ideas to spend less
- Compare prices of excursions and evaluate cheaper alternatives on your own.
- Eat at the buffet and restaurants included, without supplements. The food is usually excellent.
- Use your cell phone in airplane mode to avoid roaming charges.
- Share cab expenses with other passengers on excursions.
- Avoid spa, hairdresser or other treats. Enjoy what is included.
- Don’t go to the casino. The bank always wins.
In short, with planning and following these simple tips, you will be able to enjoy an incredible cruise with no worries or surprises on the bill. Have a good trip!
