An Alaskan cruise introduces you to some of the most breath-taking scenery you will ever see. Believe it or not, you can travel in high style and not break the bank. There are a number of ways you can get a good deal on an Alaskan cruise. All it takes is a little planning ahead.
If you have some time to plan your Alaskan cruise, you'll likely get a better deal. You can go to the websites of cruise lines and sign up to receive special email offers. They'll regularly email you deals for upcoming cruises. Often times, you can get a great deal if you book six to nine months early.
Your lodging and meals are included in your ticket price. That is one of the many things that makes a cruise so unique and hassle-free. This is where you can save a bunch of money while cruising in Alaska. You can save by sticking to complimentary drinks (water, milk, juices, etc.) and skip the sodas and alcoholic beverages. If you simply cannot go without these drinks, then sign up for a drink plan as soon as you embark. Most cruise lines allow you to sign up for drink plans during the first few days of your trip. Also, once in port, you can continue to save money by having all of your meals on-board the cruise ship. Snacks, room service and plenty of dining options are available to you nearly 24/7.
Cruise lines allow you to book sidetrips before you board or after you are on the ship. Do your research before deciding which trips to make. For example, there may be several trip options to go whale watching, but some of those options may be better than others and, therefore, a better way to spend your money. Visit cruise tip websites for advice on picking a specific sidetrip, or ask friends who have cruised to Alaska.
Tipping has become the norm on all of the major cruise lines. Typically, each cruise line will charge you a certain percentage each day and bill you at the end of your cruise. This can be anywhere from 10 to 25 percent, so it's important to know that number before you book your cruise.
There are lots of ways to easily spend your money and return home from vacation with a big credit card bill. But if you pay attention to your spending, you will also find there are so many ways you can have fun on board without spending a dime. Read in the ship's library, play games, do karaoke, go for a swim or just people watch. There's really never a dull moment on an Alaskan cruise.
