Thinking about taking a cruise now that the industry is getting back on its feet after a year-long pause? I’ve been on 11 cruises and have some great tips on how to save money on your next cruise vacation.
Why Cruises Are a Fantastic Way to Travel
Cruises are my go-to for a relaxing vacation. They’re even better once we achieve herd immunity—I’m looking forward to our next family cruise, possibly to Mexico or Alaska, departing from San Francisco. Here’s why I love cruising:
1. Every other morning, you wake up in a new city ready to explore, either on your own or through an organized tour. If you dislike the hassle of packing and unpacking, you’ll appreciate the convenience of a cruise.
2. After a day of exploring, you can return to the ship and unwind in a mineral bath at the spa, which is perfect for soothing your tired muscles.
3. Then, you can feast on a variety of dishes like lobster, prime rib, and decadent desserts in the dining room—it’s easy to see why most people return from a cruise a few pounds heavier!
4. If you’re traveling with kids, cruises offer childcare services, so there’s something for everyone.
Saving Money on Cruises: It’s Easier Than You Think
Many people think cruises are expensive, but they can be quite affordable. Here are the best ways to save money on a cruise:
1. Book Late: If you’re flexible with your dates, booking last-minute can lead to significant savings. For example, I booked a Baltic cruise with a balcony for $1,999, which was 43% off the listed price, by booking just two months in advance.
2. Book Early: If the uncertainty of last-minute booking isn’t for you, consider booking early. You can lock in a low price with a small deposit and sometimes get extra perks like onboard credit.
3. Join a Rewards Program: Being part of a cruise line’s rewards program can give you access to special sales and discounts. For example, as a Two Star Mariner with Holland America, I get first dibs on discounted rooms, saving me up to 35%.
4. Book Your Next Cruise Onboard: If you book your next cruise while still on the ship, you can often secure additional onboard credit and discounts.
5. Be Flexible with Excursions: While organized excursions are convenient, they can be pricey. You can save a lot by exploring on your own or choosing cheaper local options.
6. Pack Your Own Food for Excursions: Bringing along snacks or a packed lunch can save you from paying tourist prices at restaurants.
7. Watch for Sales: Everything from spa treatments to souvenirs goes on sale at some point during the cruise. Wait for these opportunities to indulge.
8. Drink Water: Drinks can be expensive on a cruise. Stick to water and the free juices offered during breakfast to save.
9. Understand the Fees: Be aware of daily gratuities and other fees. These are usually split among the staff, and knowing about them upfront helps you budget better.
10. Skip the Internet Package: Internet on board can be slow and costly. Most ports offer free Wi-Fi, so wait until you’re ashore to check your emails.
Bonus Tip: Making Money While Cruising
One of the lesser-known ways to offset your cruise expenses is by playing games like Texas Hold’em, which are available in the ship’s casino. The competition tends to be friendly, and the stakes are manageable. Over several cruises, I’ve been able to earn enough from playing poker to cover some of my travel expenses.
Cruises Offer Unbeatable Value
When you break down the costs, cruising offers incredible value compared to a land vacation. You get accommodation, transportation to multiple destinations, all your meals, and entertainment for one price. For example, my 12-day cruise cost me $2,400—that’s just $200 per day. Comparable expenses on land could easily add up to twice that.
In summary, with some planning and savvy strategies, cruising can be an affordable and fantastic way to see the world.
