In recent years, airlines have reduced costs by
trimming flight schedules and flying smaller planes on some routes to conserve
fuel. Recent airline mergers have also reduced the number of available flights,
even on popular routes. As a result, the supply of airline seats has become
more limited, and fares may be higher than you expect.
Fortunately, cruise travel professionals can help you
find ways to maximize the value you receive for the price you pay to travel to
and from your ship. According to a recent survey, the top recommendation of
Cruise Holidays owners and agents is to spend some additional time on land at
the beginning or end of the cruise. After all, you’ve already paid to get to
Miami, Boston, New Orleans, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Venice, or whatever port your
ship calls home – it makes sense to take some additional time to enjoy the city
and the surrounding area.
Another popular recommendation is to increase the
all-inclusive value provided by your cruise by waiting for special offers, such
as “two for one” cruise fares. Or, watch for special offers for on-board
credits that can pay for extras not included in the cruise fare, such as beverages
and specialty restaurant cover charges. Cruise travel professionals are expert
at finding deals like these, and the money you save can be redirected to airfare
costs.
Cruise vacationers can also minimize air travel costs when
their cruise travel professionals work with air consolidators. These companies
purchase unsold seats directly from the airlines at low prices. The largest and
most reputable consolidators usually do not sell directly to the public, but make
lower-cost tickets available to travel professionals who can pass the savings
on to you.
Finally, some high-end cruise lines actually include
air travel to and from the ship in their base cruise fares. It may be more
economical to take one of these luxurious and delightful cruises than to book a
lower-priced cruise and a higher-priced airfare.
For more ideas about minimizing your airfare costs –
and maximizing the fun you’ll have on your next cruise – talk with your Cruise
Holidays personal cruise expert.
For more information, visit
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