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
Finding The Best Cruise Deals Doesn t Need Luck, Only Timing When searching for the best cruise deals, many of us believe
that luck is the key to finding the cruise deals of the century!
Well that s not necessarily true, and we want to show you how to
find a cruise deal that will have you traveling on the seas with
class!
If you re interested in taking a cruise, whether it be to the
Caribbean, Mayan Riviera, Hawaii, or Europe, one thing to keep
in mind is that many cruises are based on seasonality for each
select destination, so timing in your vacation is the key.
If you happen to have a flexible vacation schedule, and would
like to save c ..
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.
Save Money On Your Next CruiseIt 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 thr ..
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!
About the Author
Victor K. Pryles is the author of: "Travel Cheap- Travel Well"!- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper. His website offers an e-course: "The Top 100 Travel Planning Websites", articles, a forum and much more. Visit him at http://www.paupertravel.co Victor K. PrylesTips & Tricks To Save Money On Your Next Cruise
