Taking a cruise is an exciting way to see the world. From relaxing days on the ship's deck to adventurous excursions in port city stops, you might easily fall in love with the culture of cruising. If you want to find the cheapest cruise fare, take advantage of inside information and discounts to ensure you never overpay for your vacation at sea.
Many cruise lines offer early booking price reductions because they want to sell out their staterooms as soon as possible. Rather than waiting until a few weeks before a cruise and trying to snatch a last-minute fare, book your cruise at least six months in advance to get an early booking price.
Many cruise lines offer discounts to people who belong to specific groups, such as the military or a particular union. Depending on your state of residence, you may be eligible for discounts on some itineraries. When booking a cruise, find out about special discounts, and don't be afraid to ask if there are upcoming promos that would apply to you. If you find out about a discount after you book, inquire about getting a refund so you pay the lower price.
If you live near a port city, you might find that leaving from the closest port is cheapest. You can get someone to drop you off at the port, avoiding parking fees and flights. However, consider shopping other cruise port terminals. If you can get a really cheap flight to a nearby port that has significantly cheaper cruise rates, your overall cost may be lower. Searching surrounding ports might lead to the least-expensive cruise, so cast a wide net.
Luxury ships are more apt to have a higher price tag attached than ships with less of an elite status. If you are looking for a cheap deal, pay attention to the class level of the ships you consider. The newest ships with bigger and better amenities might be the most alluring, but also have a higher fare.
If you can book multiple staterooms together, you may be able to negotiate a lower rate. Get a cheaper cruise deal by inviting friends and family to sail on the same trip. The minimum number of staterooms that constitute a group may vary by cruise line, so contact the cruise line you're interested in to find out the requirements.
