How To Find Discount Cruise Vacations By Alex Stewart At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Finding a cruise discount often depends on timing, budget, research and good fortune. Keep reading for great tips on how to locate a discount cruise that fits your budget and your standards.

Timing is Key

If you're willing to cruise during a slow time of year, you're more likely to find better deals. For example, a Pacific cruise in November might be a bit chilly up on deck, but the boat amenities including food, entertainment and recreational activities are going to be the same as mid-summer. By bringing a sweater and jacket instead of perhaps a bathing suit, you can still enjoy a great cruise at a substantial discount.

Timing can also work to your advantage when it comes to finding "repositioning" cruises. Typically, northern destinations like Alaska and the Pacific Northwest are popular in the summer while Caribbean destinations are popular in the winter. In between these periods, cruise lines need to reposition their boats, meaning they have to sail from one destination to the other.

Because these sailings require passengers to board and disembark at different locations and often offer much fewer port excursions, their cruise trips are often sold at heavily discounted prices. So if you're mostly interested in the experience of traveling aboard a cruise ship, they can be a great buy.

Downgrade Your Cabin

Opting for an interior cabin means you're going to find yourself in a small, windowless room. However, there are large discounts to be found here, making it a great way to enjoy a luxury boat at discount prices.

Typically, inside cabins go for about 25-50% less than outside cabins, but some deals can be found for up to 75% off the price. By booking a smaller room on a more luxurious ship, you'll still have access to all the restaurants, amenities and activities that are on offer. It simply means your time in the cabin will not be as appealing. Despite that, the better the boat - the more likely you'll only be using your room for sleeping, so this might not be a high priority to you.

Go Last Minute

Cruise lines don't like to sail with empty cabins, meaning there are a number of last minute deals to be found.

If you're not picky about your destination and you're ready to leave at the last minute (remember you'll need a passport), then last-minute cruises are a great way to save a bundle. Look online at travel sites and cruise lines' web sites, or consult a travel agent to lock in good deals.

Always Research the Ship

Remember, not every deal is a bargain. If a good deal is too good to be true, it sometimes is. Before purchasing a discount cruise passage, do your research concerning the actual ship.

Try reading online traveler reviews to get an actual feel of the boat's amenities, cabin décor, food service and activities. Other travelers will give you a more realistic view of the ship's star level than the cruise line's promotional brochure.

If you are willing to venture out onto a cruise without all luxuries you might ordinarily want (including additional time to prepare), you can secure some pretty sweet deals and have just as much enjoyment.

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