Use the Internet or study important cruise brochures and familiarize yourself with various cruise features. Find out the best fees, destinations, cruise atmospheres, amenities, options for recreation, and accommodation types.
Decide on your cruise duration; cruises normally run for 15 to 18 days. Longer cruises are available, with more options for recreation and port visits.
Decide your budget to determine what kind of cruise you can afford. Compare your budget with very cheap, moderate, deluxe and extra-deluxe cruises to know exactly what to expect for your budget.
Start your last-minute cruise research at least two to three months before your planned departure. This way, you can leverage on pre-penalty cruise cancellations. Cruise lines know exactly how many cabins are left unoccupied two to three months before the trip.
Search the Internet for regular and discount cruise websites and research cruise deals. Also, check with your travel agent for last-minute cheap cruise deals.
Book your trip after reading the fine print carefully. Know that you are getting exactly what you're paying for, and nothing less.
