Parque Nacional

How to Save Money on a Cruise Top 10 Ways To Saving Money On Your Next Cruise Cruising the open seas is a great way to spend a vacation. Finding a good cruise fare is really pretty simple these days as the cruise industry has drastically cut the cost of cruise fares in an attempt to fill ships to capacity. Even though it is possible to get a great deal on a cruise, you must be careful of some of the money sucking traps and extra expenses you will find once you board the ship. Below are my Top 10 ways to save money while on a cruise ship. #1 Don’t use the Ship To Shore phones on a cruise ship. Some calls may cost you up to $15/min. The best bet is to either use your cell phone or purchase a calling card and use it while in port. #2 Avoid using the Cruise offered Shore Excursions. It is very easy to save money by doing some research and buying an excursion package independently directly from the excursion company itself. You will avoid the extra costs tacked on by the cruise line and still be able to enjoy the same excursions as everyone else. #3 Save Big- Cruise for Free. Many cruise lines are looking for people to conduct lectures, teach a class, or be a gentleman host and dance with the ladies on a cruise. If you have any of these skills, you may be able to do a little work and get a free cruise out of the deal. #4 Take advantage of discounts. If you ask for a discount you may just get one. Many cruises offer discounts for military personnel, emergency medical technicians, public safety rates for firemen and Senior discounts. #5 Book a cruise while on a cruise. You can save a nice chunk of money and possibly get some nice upgrades and bonuses by booking a cruise while on your cruise. Don’t be afraid to negotiate to get the best deal. #6 Capitalize on Off-Peak hours. Go to the spa during off peak times such as when the ship is in Port and potentially save up to 50% on your next spa treatment. #7 Comparison shop while in Port. The cruise line will “recommend” certain shops to buy from while in Port. Unfortunately these so called “recommended” shops may not offer you the best savings and may benefit the cruise line more than you. Look around at different shops to find the best deals. #8 Don’t be afraid to bargain. In many cultures it is normal to bargain for the best price. Start with a price 30% below what you want to pay and remember not to look like you absolutely must have a certain item. You will need to have a good poker face for this. Have some fun with it. #9 Book an Inside Cabin. If you don’t plan on being in your cabin very much than consider saving by booking an inside cabin verses an ocean view or balcony cabin. If however you want to have that ocean view or have your morning coffee overlooking the ocean on your private balcony than you may want to consider splurging on a balcony. #10 Don’t buy your airfare through the cruise line. It is very easy to search for a good airfare over the internet. You stand a good chance of spending more money by booking through the cruise line itself. I hope you have enjoyed these money saving tips. Cruising is a great way to relax and have some adventure. It can be even more fun when you can save an extra buck or two.