If you don't have the budget to afford a cruise, there are other options. This article will show you how to find a cruise within your budget. It will also provide suggestions for how to book a small ship or off-season cruise.
How to budget for a cruise
The cost of cruises can make your trip very costly. You can go on a discount cruise for less than $60 per night, or you can opt for a more luxurious cruise with a $300-600 per person per night price tag. In either case, you'll need to factor in the cost of transportation from your home to the cruise ship, and the cost of gratuities.
Parking can be another expense that could eat into your cruise budget. You can park in many ports for $20 per day, so make sure to plan ahead. Parking discounts are available at some hotels and other independent parking lots if you plan to stay in a port-city. It's a good idea to fly to the port cities a day before the cruise to give yourself enough time to travel to the ship, and to avoid traffic jams. You'll also want to budget for souvenirs, which are usually extra.
Book during shoulder season
The price of a cruise booked during shoulder season can vary depending on the destination and the time. In the Mediterranean, for instance, it is cheaper to book a cruise in late autumn or winter. The cruise line as well as the itinerary will determine the price of these cruises. December and January are busy months and cruise prices are usually highest. Cheap cruises can be found in the early spring.
You can also experience the local culture by booking a cruise in the shoulder season. Local festivals, cultural events, and other activities are more popular during shoulder seasons. These events have fare prices that are up 35% lower than those during peak season.
A cruise in the off-season
You can take a cruise for a lower price if you travel off-season. Some destinations are less crowded in summer and winter while others draw fewer people. However, it is still important to choose a destination carefully. Perhaps you should consider cruising in the spring. Spring break is over for many college-aged adults. Family-friendly spring cruises are very popular. While April is usually a relatively dry month in most places, it can be hurricane-prone in some areas. This means that cruise prices increase significantly during the spring season.
Take an off-season plane to travel and save money. Many long-haul flights are less crowded during the off-season. Saving money can be as simple as using the empty economy row to make your "sky sofa". You will be more comfortable and rested once you reach your destination. There are often discounts on hotel rooms during off-season. You can even find cheap luxury accommodations during these times.
Taking a cruise on a smaller ship
A smaller cruise ship is a great option because you can get high-quality service in intimate surroundings. You will often find naturalists and lecturers aboard smaller ships to help you get to know more about the destination. These vessels offer more intimate dining experiences and can accommodate single seats.
Smaller ships are more flexible and can travel to remote areas. Some cruises offer excursions where passengers can swim with penguins, hike in the Galapagos Islands, or enjoy other outdoor activities.
FAQ
Is food free on a cruise?
The answer is yes All cruises come with complimentary food. To enjoy these drinks, however, you will need beverages to purchase.
The cost of a cruise depends on the ship you're sailing on. You might expect to pay between $20 and $30 per person for each beverage purchased while cruising on a luxury liner. The cost for a small vessel will likely be lower at $10-15 per individual.
Do I need to book my cruise before booking my flight?
It depends on which part of the world you are traveling to. You will have more flexibility when it comes to dates if you book your cruise early. You could, for example, plan your cruise around the summer months if you are sure you will be visiting Europe. For those who are planning to go to South America or Asia, it might be a better idea to book your cruise after high season to avoid high prices.
How do I pick the best cruise line?
It's simple to choose the right line of cruise. First, choose the type of cruise that you wish to take. You might prefer a smaller intimate cruise, or one with many passengers. Also, think about how much money it is worth. If you are looking at something more affordable, then consider cruises that offer "all inclusive" packages. You won't have to worry about extra costs for entertainment, food, and drinks. If you are considering a family cruise, ensure the lines you choose have great programs for children.
Statistics
- You'll need to budget around $80 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. (travel.usnews.com)
- *20% Gratuities Apply on Free Unlimited Open Bar; Free Specialty Dining. (ncl.com)
- The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle. (travel.usnews.com)
- In addition, 10 to 15 percent gratuity is typically added to bar bills — for alcohol and soft drinks — and gratuities are applied to spa treatments. (cruiseline.com)
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How To
How to be safe on a cruise ship
On a cruise ship, there are many things you should know before embarking on your journey. To avoid getting into trouble, you must know how to behave onboard. These safety tips will make your trip more enjoyable.
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Be mindful of where you are at all times. People are more likely to be together when they're eating on a cruise ship than anywhere else. It is easy to lose sight of your task when you are surrounded by people who want food and chat. Do not let people distract you from your task. If you spot someone using dangerous substances, such as smoking or alcohol, let them know politely.
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Always keep your room key close to you when you board the ship, and hand over your room key to the person checking you in. If you get lost or need to be found, this will help you to locate your shipmates. Also, make sure to have your passport.
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Your valuables should be kept out of reach. Many cabins have drawers underneath the bed. It is a good place to store valuables like money, credit cards, passports, etc. Keep your valuables out of sight. Your bags should be kept in the closet, so that no one can see them.
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Stay hydrated. While cruise ships have plenty of water, sometimes it can be difficult for passengers to remember to drink enough. Take advantage of the free bottled water available throughout the ship. Do not become dehydrated. Dehydration can make you tired and cranky, which can lead to fights or other accidents.
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Listen to announcements carefully. Announcements are displayed everywhere, including on TV screens. They contain safety procedures, emergency exits, weather reports, and more. These announcements will be of great importance. They could save your life.
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Always lock the cabin before you leave. No matter how helpful a crew member appears, you should never leave your cabin unlocked. Thieves are known to break in through doors that are not locked. If you need to use the restroom, ask a crew member for permission first.
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Do not go overboard by yourself. It may take time for the crew of the ship to rescue you if you fall overboard. You may attract sharks or other sea creatures to your body while you are still on the ship's crew. The best thing to do is wait until help arrives.
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Never smoke inside the elevator. These elevators are pressurized and smoke can build up quickly. If you feel dizzy and lightheaded, it is best to get out immediately. Even though the air outside is fresh, it doesn't mean breathing is safe.
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The evacuation procedure. Every year, thousands are killed in elevator accidents. Follow the screen's instructions if an emergency happens.
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Be familiar with the fire drill. Fire drills take place regularly, almost every day. Everyone on deck must evacuate when there is a drill. Follow the instructions of the crew members. When the drill is finished, return to the cabin and lock your door.
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Ask questions before you accept food and drinks. Cruisers are often concerned about food poisoning. Many people don't realize that certain foods aren't safe to eat while onboard a ship. On most cruise ships, raw oysters are prohibited. If you're unsure whether or not the food you've been offered is safe, politely refuse and look for another meal instead.
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Take care when you use the pool. Many people have fallen into the pools by accident. This is a common occurrence. It is also possible to slip on the ground. So always wear proper footwear and pay attention to your surroundings.