Tips & Tricks To Save Money On Your Next Cruise
Tricks & Tips On Saving Money With Cruises Victor K. Pryles
It used to be only the wealthy took crusies. There you were,
relegated to miserly quarters in steerage, or set on top of the
world in palacial state rooms of pure luxury. Think of the class
structure in the movie 'Titanic'.That's changed (somewhat) in
the new age of fierce competition for cruise dollars. But there
are very important ways my fellow Paupers use to dramatically
lower their costs and to upgrade their accomodations on oceanic
cruises.
NEWSLETTERS
How about an upgrade? Better cabins, discounted certificates,
10-40% savings off advertised prices all offered by your cruise
line through their respective newsletters. I recommend you
subscribe to the online newsletter from several cruise lines to
get these bargain offers. They sometimes announce fantastic
'sweepstakes' for free cruises, too. You can always unsubscribe
at anytime.
EARLY BIRDS
The early bird still gets the cruise, just like with the
airlines. If you're good at long-range planning you can save
mucho dinero. The earlier you book your cruise the more you
save. Typically 10-40%. It's funny, but on the converse side,
last minute deals can also set you free to save much money. So,
be early or really, really late and save.
CONNECTIONS
If you belong to an association, organization, if you have a
wedding party, family reunion, belong to a church group or are
planning a corporate outing you can get hefty group discounts.
As always, don't be afraid to ask! Here's the idea: let's say
you and you significant other are planning a cruise to the
Bahamas. Why not post your plans in the company, church or
association newsletter or bullitin board, inviting others to
join you. You'd be surprised how much of a discount you can
arrange by inviting others along.
STAND BY!
Yes, it happens with cruise ships, too. Typically you're
notified three weeks prior to departure if there is space. Late
notice like this means you get a nice discount fare.If you
employ this strategy, it helps to be on a floating vacation
schedule with your employer. If you're self-employed, you'd be a
fool not to use this trick. The more flexible your schedule the
more money you save.
BONUS: Paupers Secret Confessions #14
The four ideas above are standard issue tricks of the trade. But
here is one you may not have considered before. One of the
biggest expenses on a cruise ship are those delicious
cocktails!Who doesn't like to embibe a sparkling beverage of
choice while soaking in the sun on deck? Buy liqour onshore or
at the cruise line liquor store. Drink in your room or poolside.
Get a steward to bring ice and mixers. Our Pauper hates to spend
$10. for a glass of wine. If you add up the price of a drink or
two for two people over a 7-day cruise---ouch!