Plan an ideal date when you want a vacation, while maintaining date flexibility. Being flexible may help snag the best prices for cruise vacations. Before you begin bidding on cruise vacations, have a general idea of what trip length and locations you prefer. Cruises travel throughout the world, and durations range from three days to several weeks.
Do research on travel websites and the sites of different cruise lines to find out the going rate for a cruise vacation for your size family. This gives you an idea of what to offer when it's time to bid. Check out some of the different cruise lines and what they have to offer while you're researching, so you can determine which type of vacation you prefer.
Sign up for e-mail alerts from cruise lines. Often, cruise lines offer last-minute deals that you can take advantage of if your travel dates are flexible. These alerts also may advertise special packages that include airfare, transportation and other expenses that are not typically included in the price of cruises.
Go to bidding websites such as Priceline.com, Hotwire.com or Cruisecompete.com and bid on cruises that fit your budget and your desired amenities and locations. Once a bid is accepted, pay for your cruise online using a credit card and begin packing.
