Two month’s salary is the standard for engagement rings, not cruises. Many people are under the mistaken belief that taking a cruise means shelling out thousands of dollars. There are several ways to find great deals on cruises that don’t mean you have to sacrifice on value. With a bit of planning, you can find an inexpensive cruise that the whole family can enjoy.
Contact a Travel Agent
A travel agent books trips for a living and has an ‘in’ when it comes to finding great deals. Contact several travel agents in your area and ask them what they can do for you in the way of cruise deals. If you can remain flexible in travel dates and even preferred cruise lines you stand a better chance of getting a variety of deals. Travel agents are also known to add upgrades after you book with them as a gratuity for doing business with their company.
Book a Freighter
The general public is typically unaware that it’s possible to book a spot aboard a freighter. If you are taking a cruise to be able to see exciting ports of call and don’t care about on board amenities, freighters are hundreds of dollars cheaper than ships belonging to a cruise line. Don’t expect glamorous meals or thrilling entertainment aboard a freighter but do expect to see ports of call that the cruise lines pass by.
Look for a Repositioning Ship
When cruise lines change their routes, this is called repositioning. If you have the money and means to return home, booking a one-way cruise of this type can be very beneficial. Not only will you save money on your booking, but you will also see ports of call that differ from the regular cruise. Alternately, look for a shoulder trip. These trips are at the beginning and end of seasonal cruises and, while you may have to deal with less than perfect weather, it’s a great way to cruise on a budget.
Cruisecompete.com
If you have a set itinerary in your mind, post it on Cruisecompete.com. Your itinerary will be seen by dozens of travel agents who will then bid on your posting. It’s a great way to get several proposals without having to shop around on your own. If you see a price you like, grab it. If not, you’re under no obligation. Perfect when you’re looking to travel inexpensively.
CruiseFinder
CruiseFinder is a great app for you Apple device. Search through hundreds of cruises using a variety of criteria to find the perfect vacation package. The app gives a list of the hottest current deals, which makes finding a budget cruise both quick and simple.
Cruises don’t have to be expensive to be a good value for your dollar. Use one or more of these suggestions to find a cruise vacation that fits into your budget. You’ll be sailing away in no time!
[box]Many stay at home parents agree, making your budget dollars stretch further is so important in today’s economy. Mary Blanchard, a stay at home parent, has been using couponcroc.co.uk for over 5 years and finds them to offer the best variety on deals in the UK.[/box]
