The world of cruising changes all
the time, as cruise lines work hard to accommodate passengers’ changing tastes
and offer new experiences. As a result, some widely held beliefs about cruising
become outdated and inaccurate.
One example is the belief that
cruising is too expensive. In the early days of leisure cruising it was
something only the wealthy could afford, but today it’s easy to find a cruise
to fit just about any vacation budget. And, the fare includes much more than
your stateroom – food, entertainment, top-notch service, use of the ship’s
amenities and more. In sort, cruising is a terrific vacation value.
Still, cruising isn’t free,
unless you’re lucky enough to receive a cruise as a gift! Here are some tips
for keeping it affordable:
Select a cruise that fits your budget. The basic fare for a cruise
depends on several factors, including the style and amenities of the ship, the
point of embarkation, and where and how far the ship will sail.
For example, you can take a
three-day cruise to the Bahamas; a four- to seven-day cruise of either the
eastern or western portion of the Caribbean; or a cruise of 14 days or more
that will take you all around the Caribbean. You can cruise on a ship that
provides all of the basic comforts, or spend more on a luxury experience. It’s
all up to you – and your budget.
Book early. Early booking is key to securing a good price. Cruise
fares tend to be lowest well in advance of the sailing date; to rise as the
ship begins to fill; and then to drop again closer to the sailing date (but you
may not have much choice of staterooms).
Manage your expenses on board. Cruise fares include a lot, but not
everything. Gratuities for the crew are usually separate, and you should
include that in your budget. Other things that are enjoyable, but optional –
shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments and casino games – are
often not included in the fare. Be sure you know what’s included in your fare
and what else you want to budget for.
For help finding a cruise that
fits your interests and your budget, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal
cruise expert.
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