Bargains abound this wave season, and who doesn't like a good bargain? If you haven't cruised before, now is a good time to put your toe in the water because prices are unbelievably low. At Travelocity, we compared rates and found spring deals 15 percent to 50 percent less than they were last year at the same time. Buy now for a cruise just days away; forget that rule about long-term planning. And if that weren't reason enough, the flexibility of a cruise may be especially appealing for nervous travelers reluctant to commit to an exotic spring break given the current political climate. You can even drive to many of the ports. What I like best is that you can cruise to just about anywhere on any size ship! Cruises are the so-called "whole package" because they offer something for everyone.
Today’s ships visit ports around the world, from Boston to Barcelona and Bermuda to the Bahamas. Pick ports that suit your travel whims. Particularly popular destinations this spring are the Caribbean and Mexico. In fact, many cruise lines have the flexibility to move their ships to where the masses desire, meaning that you now have more chances than ever to visit these cruise favorites.
Cruises are family-friendly but also welcoming to couples and singles. (Look for a ship that has programming to suit your needs. For example, some specialize in singles activities. Or, if traveling as a family, select a ship with age-appropriate programming.) Since we all know that no one's dream vacation is the same, cruises offer a variety of things to do for every type of traveler.
Some people want to sit back, relax, and do as little as possible. Others can’t sit still. The good news is that a cruise is good for both ends of the spectrum. There are plenty of deck chairs if you prefer to lounge. Simply choose sun or shade. Plant yourself for the duration of the cruise or take advantage of your ship's activities that can range from climbing walls to casinos and golf lessons to gyms. Enjoy live entertainment each evening, dance til dawn, or amble under the glow of the moon. A vacation on the high seas can be calm and relaxing or action packed. (Don't forget that this is in addition to the port adventures your cruise offers.)
Worried about what to do on a rainy day? Don't! Cruises are like floating resorts. If you're stuck inside for a day there is still plenty to do. Leave the children with the kiddie counselors and go gamble, visit the spa, stop for a latte, shop the numerous boutiques, sip a fruity cocktail, visit the internet café, or stroll on deck and watch the rain fall.
On a cruise you can really sail away from it all and leave your real life behind for a while. These days your getaway can be a three-night quickie or a 10-day affair. Whatever you choose, say "So long, land lubbers" and sail away.
Before booking, here are a few tips to help you save when searching for your cruise deal:
Most ships have a tipping policy. Sometimes it's built in while other times it’s not. And, there are even ships that don't permit it at all. The key is to find out whether or not you will be expected to tip at the end so you can factor this into your budget.
A general guide to tipping is to budget at least $10 per person, per day. Customarily, gratuities are for the steward, the maitre d’, waiter, and busboy. All others are optional.
Look for rewards, upgrades, and shipboard credits, all of which are great ways to make your cruise dollar go farther.
Be flexible with your dates and you can often receive extra savings.
Look for last-minute pricing deals (found on cruises offered less than 30 days in advance).
If you want to call home periodically, your cell phone may do the trick and it will certainly be cheaper than the stateroom telephones.
If you need to fly into your port city, make sure you look into purchasing your airfare at the same time you book your cruise. Often you can save money purchasing a package instead of purchasing airfare and the cruise a la carte.
Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if buying your cruise in advance where weather may be unpredictable. It's worth it!
March 04, 2003