Cheap Cruises - flight-discounts.com

Be Flexible

If you’re looking for a last-minute cruise, your willingness to compromise can get you a great deal. While it wouldn’t make sense to cruise to a destination you don’t care to visit anyway, you’d probably be happy to trade off time in Jamaica for the Dominican Republic, for example.

Book Well in Advance to Score Early-Bird Rates

Booking at the right time is key for scoring a deal, with some of the lowest prices found 18 months before the departure date, or at the very last minute. Avoid the stress of the latter and snag 25 to 50 percent of typical fares by securing your spot as early as possible.

Score Major Discounts on Unsold Cruise Cabins

If cruising at the last-minute can work with your schedule, you might find a great deal on remaining unsold cabins. Cruise lines sometimes advertise flash sales to Twitter followers and those who subscribe to e-newsletters, so be sure to sign up and follow your favorites.

Search for Cruises That Depart from Nearby Cities

When searching for a bargain last-minute cruise, be aware that if you have to purchase last-minute airfare it may negate what you saved. Stick to options with departures from nearby cities that you can get to easily to reap real savings.

Consider Different Ship Options

There are many options when it comes to ships and sizes. A small-ship cruise may not have water parks and the like, but many come with luxuries like onboard Jacuzzis while providing a more intimate and authentic cruising experience at a more budget-friendly price.

Reduce Chances for Seasickness by Staying Low

If you tend to suffer from seasickness, before booking look at the ship’s deck plan on the cruise line’s website. Choose a cabin on the lowest possible deck at about the middle of the ship as they tend to roll from side to side.

Discounted or Free Wi-Fi

Small-ship cruises often come with complimentary Wi-Fi, but if you want Internet access on a mega-ship, keep in mind that many offer free minutes by signing up for a package online before sailing, or on the first day of the cruise.

Pack Light to Save Cabin Space

Packing light is always a good idea as you’ll have less to lug around, and when you’re cruising, it means more space to move in your stateroom. Most ships have laundry facilities and/or offer dry cleaning, and some provide affordable self-laundry service, making it easy to bring less.

Skip a Shore Excursion, Visit a Local Market Instead

While you might want to take some shore excursions, skip at least one and head to a local market instead. It’s a great way to interact with locals, discover some locally sourced items and more unique treasures that you probably won’t find in tourist shops.

Arrive a Day Early

Planning to arrive a day early into the port city and securing a hotel with complimentary shuttle service, can make for a more hassle-free experience and ensure you won’t miss your trip. Many hotels will let you leave your car in their parking lot for a fairly nominal fee.

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