Do you want to be the person talking about the great deal you got on your cruise or the person listening to it and mentally kicking yourself for paying the full price? Taking a vacation is a big investment, and most people shudder at the prospect of missing a deal by a hair or overpaying. Specials for cruises do exist, and will not disappear anytime soon, because the cruise industries are attempting to lure retirees and newcomers onboard with cheap prices, exotic locales, and luxurious boats. Below are some guidelines for finding cruise specials and what the industry means with its one through six star rankings.
Narrow your options
As soon as you know what kind of cruise you want to go on, then you can start looking for cruise specials. The cruise specials for Paris in the fall are different from those for the Mediterranean in the middle of winter. Consider a range of dates (note: most depart on a weekly basis). And while you can cruise some destinations year round, others are dependent on the weather. For example, you can only cruise Alaska’s Inside Passage during the summer.
Look for deals
In addition to ongoing deals, there are three types of cruise specials to watch out for:
- Last minute specials: Unsold cabins will be heavily discounted. However, this option will depend on luck, especially if all airline tickets are not included in the cruise price.
- Early bird specials: Some lines offer early booking specials. Keep your eye out for these because you could get a more expensive cabin for the same price as you were planning to spend on a middle of the line cabin.
- Also, most cruise lines offer frequent traveler miles programs or substantial discounts to repeat cruisers.
Choose a cruise
However, if you don’t find a special for the type of cruise or location you want, identify a cruise line that sails when and where you want to go. The advantage of using travel agents is that they can work with you and negotiate with the cruise line to perhaps get a cruise special. When choosing a cruise, be sure to consider the clientele of the line and who the cruise line is marketed to. Cruises can be geared toward families (such as the Disney cruise), seniors, or those with alternative lifestyles. Be sure to find an environment in which you’ll be comfortable.
Cruise ratings
- Six star cruises: Top of the line in all categories, including comfort, quality of food and amenities. Service is excellent and personalized. Staterooms are large and food is prepared to order.
- Five star cruises: Entertainment, activities, and food are all considered very good.
- Four star cruises: Some cruises in this ranking cater more to families. Excellent food and service.
- Three star cruises: Considered average cruises, but most are unique and have many repeat customers.
- Two and one star cruises: Most of the ships are older. However, they are well kept and the staff is usually very good. They also have fun activities and night life as well.