Taking a voyage across the great ocean in a huge ship remains a popular way to vacation, and for good reason. When you discover the cruise deals, you can make the trip even more fantastic. With more people turning to cruises, companies are offering more value packages and add-ons every day. The trick is knowing not only where, but also when to look. Take a look at some of the following pro tips to help you make the most of your next vacation:
Book during “wave season”
There is a specific time of year when cruise lines offer amazing cruise deals. From January to March, known as low season, you can find some really great deals. This period of time is well known in travel circles as “wave season.” Companies really try to encourage travelers to book early and, of course, book with their particular line. As a result, there tend to be some crazy deals available, including free Buy One, Get One (aka BOGO) and value-added options like free dinners or automatic upgrades. The trick is to look around and find out which companies can offer great packages. Travel companies that specialize in cruises can really help you locate these special offers.
Find a popular destination.
This may sound counterintuitive, but booking a trip to a popular destination can actually save you money. With large cruise ships, the goal is to fill capacity. And with popular destinations, there are plenty of competing lines leaving every day, if not multiple times in a day. With so many ships, many companies offer great cruise deals to attract customers who will hopefully become regular travelers. Alaska, the Caribbean and Cuba are hot spots right now and can offer the best deals.
Be flexible with your dates.
Traveling last minute, spontaneously or on hold is not for everyone. It can be especially stressful for those who have booked vacation days from work. But for those who can afford to be more flexible, it can really pay off when it comes to your pocketbook. To sell last-minute cabins, many cruise ships offer deeply discounted rooms. They can also add some great values, like upgrades and free passes to dinners and shows. If you know where to look, you can really get some great deals.
Or… book super early!
On the other hand, it can also be advantageous to book very early, such as during wave season. Booking early can ensure you find great deals on ships that like to know ahead of time that they’re fully booked.
Pursue accessories.
Add-ons are the most important aspect of finding great cruise deals. Added value can include things like upgraded rooms, free meals, or certain passes. Don’t forget to look for free air flights or car rentals to transport you to a port. Air credit is also another popular incentive for travelers. Many travel companies will know when and how to look for these additional offers.