It wasnt that long ago that the cruise industry was in turmoil.
Fast-forward to the present, cruise lines are full and the buffets are bountiful.
Affordable cruises are still out thereyou just need to know where to look and how to save.
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Over time, as more cabins get filled, that cruises fare increases.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Plus they often throw in special perks for early bookers like beverage packages and shore excursions.
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2.
For example, Caribbean cruises will be cheaper in late summer and early fall because of the hurricane season.
For European cruises, May and September usually offer shoulder season pricing.
Take advantage of these lower-demand time frames.
Each cruise line has different rules.
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4.
Where You Cruise Matters
Its all about supply and demand.
With more plentiful cruises out of Florida and through the Caribbean, youll be able to find better rates.
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5.
However, on expensive endeavors like a cruise vacation, you might want to consider one.
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6.
If you dont win the bid, its no loss to you.
If you do win, youll get a sweet upgraded room for the price of a lower level cabin.
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7.
Book Last Minute
Wait a minute, didnt we just say to book early?
Yes, we did.
But if youre a last-minute pop in, you might find some savings as well.
Cruise lines will drop prices close to the departure date to unload inventory.
If a particular cruise line still has many open cabins, it might reduce the rates significantly.
The best time to book a last-minute cruise is between 60 and 90 days before departure.
Up until that point, someone can cancel their cruise without penalty.
Looking for last-minute deals shouldnt be your go-to method, as its not as reliable as booking early.
But you could benefit if you decide to go see the Bahamas on a whim.
It also helps if youre within driving distance of the cruise port, toavoid overpaying for airline tickets.
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8.
The cruise line might offer special deals for passengers who simply want to sail the ocean with limited stops.
However, you are paying for all those meals, so take advantage of them!
Cruises historically have been known for mediocre food, but that has changed in recent years.
Most of the specialty packages include more unique or fancier restaurants with a celebrity chefs name attached to them.
Foodies might find these packages attractive if theyre willing to spend a little more.
Otherwise, you could save by sticking to the included restaurants.
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10.
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11.
Youll still make it back in time, and youll save money in the process.
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12.
Bring Your Own Wine
Dont get crazy.
You cant bring a barrel on board.
But most cruise lines will allow you to bring two bottles of wine on board the cruise.
Youll have several options alcoholic and non-alcoholic to choose from.
Simply do the math to decide if buying the drink package makes sense.
Keep in mind that you could buy drink packages at any time youre on board.
If youre unsure, take the first day or two to gauge whether the package makes sense for you.
Take this opportunity to unplug and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings during your cruise vacation.
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15.
While some of those may make sense, check that you take a reasoned approach to buying them.
Read the reviews about the specialty restaurants to find out if the food is worth the extra cost.
See what previous cruisers thought about the available shore excursions.
And use that fancy camera on your phone instead of buying those expensive photo packages.
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16.
Pick the Guaranteed Cabin
Usually, the cheapest rooms on cruise ships are the guaranteed cabins.
This means, obviously, your spot on the boat is guaranteed.
The downside is that you dont have a choice on where your cabin will be.
Your fate lies in the hands of the cruise line.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
