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Cheap Cruises on the big blue seas has never been so possible |
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Written by Save Money Editor
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 For years, there's been a false notion that
cruises were too pricey. Young couples searching for a romantic getaway or
families yearning for a different kind of adventure have been steered away from
cruising. Instead, they pay more to stay at fancy beach resorts and hotels
without the charm or view of a cruise ship.
As with any purchase, a sea cruise is what you wish to
make of it -- and how much you're willing to spend. Depending on the itinerary,
liner and size of lodging, a cruise can cost as little as $50 to $100,000. With
the right planning, cruise deals are possible, so a couple or family can
maximize the most enjoyment out of whatever they choose to spend for the
experience. It's all up to your style and budget.
The biggest key in finding discount cruises is the season. "Peak
season" is considered Memorial Day through Labor Day, and per-night
itineraries during that time will command top dollar. The market for peak
season cruises has recently experienced some correction because of devastating Caribbean hurricane seasons in 2004 and 2005, creating
plenty of summer discounts.
Peak season has been so popular because the period is family-friendly and the
weather is optimal. Water temperatures are perfect for water sports and it's
easy for children to make new friends onboard. Because demand is so high for
the summer months, booking well in advance is strongly encouraged to secure the
best packages.
But steeper pricing and more tightly packed ships could have consumers looking
into the "low season," typically early autumn and early spring.
Cruising during this period is cheaper as governed by supply and demand. Ships
are roomier and less crowded, as are tourist destinations en route.
Unless they are removed from of school, the kids will usually be out of
commission for these months. However, families can still be creative with
scheduling and discover bargains in the weeks before and after the start of
peak season, adjusting trips as the school calendar allows.
Spring break, when thousands of high school and college students populate
cruise ports, is considered an undesirable time to set sail. Rates will be
high, ships are at full capacity and proper peace and reflection will be tough
to find.
A 2-4 month cruise is not something to jump into without preparation. All the
corners need to be covered, including investigating the age and quality of the
ship itself. Many cruise lines such as cruisedealsonline.com and palmstravel.com provide Internet specials worth looking into
before committing anywhere. Early booking discounts are available for customers
with a plan.
When booking, look for travel agencies who know what they're doing. Because
they're experienced and respected in the industry, the larger agencies are able
to pick out a wing of cabins and sell each separately. And if you go on one
cruise, chances are a second go-around will be cheaper. Cruise lines value
repeat customers and tend to make their next experience much lighter in the
pocketbook. If you're a cruise veteran, look into promotions for prior
passengers through your cruise line's membership club.
Any potential cruiser dreams about kicking back in the cabin and relaxing in
style. As with anything else, here you get what you pay for. Size, layout,
location and view all factor into the price of the cabin. While a cabin near
the stairs, engine or anchor might be cheaper, they come with hindrances.
Saving money might not be worth the sacrifice.
Insurance is advisable for cruise trips. Penalties for cancellation are harsh
and the money is nonrefundable following final payment. Travel insurance can
protect you from losing money if you have to cancel because of a medical or
family situation. Generally, it¹s better and cheaper to buy independent
insurance instead of the cruise line's policy.
So you're all set. You've done your research and you're ready to make a
payment. Initial costs usually involve a modest deposit of around $200 per
person at the time of booking. Then, two or four months before you set sail,
the remaining balance is due. This is where it pays most to book in advance --
reservations made two months before the sailing date must be paid in entirety
at the time of booking.
Have fun, and be imaginative at every turn of the process.
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