💰 4 Cruise Secrets That’ll Save You Serious Money
Who doesn’t love cruising — the endless ocean views, the amazing food, and waking up in a new destination every morning? But let’s be real… cruising can add up fast if you’re not careful. The good news? There are a few insider tricks that can help you stretch your vacation budget and keep more money for fun things (like piña coladas and souvenirs 😉).
Here are 4 of my favorite cruise money-saving secrets:
1️⃣ Keep Checking Your Cruise Price After You Book
Most people don’t realize that cruise prices can fluctuate even after you’ve booked. If the price drops before your final payment date, many cruise lines will give you the difference back in the form of onboard credit or a refund.
💡 Pro Tip: Set a reminder to check prices every couple of weeks or use websites that track cruise fare changes. A quick phone call to your cruise line or travel agent could mean free money to spend on drinks, excursions, or spa treatments!
2️⃣ Book Excursions Directly With Local Companies
Cruise-line excursions are convenient, but they usually come with a big markup. Booking directly with local tour operators can save you 30–50%, plus you’ll often get smaller group sizes and more authentic experiences.
💡 Pro Tip: Check sites like Viator, TripAdvisor, or local tourism websites for reputable companies with solid reviews. Most will guarantee they’ll get you back to the ship on time.
3️⃣ Skip the Drink Package (If It Doesn’t Fit Your Style)
Drink packages sound tempting, but they’re not always worth the price. If you’re not planning to drink multiple cocktails a day, you’ll likely spend less by paying per drink.
💡 Pro Tip: Many cruise lines let you bring one or two bottles of wine or soda per person onboard — check your cruise line’s policy before sailing. And don’t forget there’s always free water, tea, coffee, and juice at the buffet!
4️⃣ Cruise Off-Season for the Best Deals
Timing is everything when it comes to cruise prices. Sailing during off-peak months — like September, early December, or right after the holidays — can save you hundreds of dollars per person.
💡 Pro Tip: Off-season cruises usually mean fewer crowds and cheaper flights too!
🌴 Final Thoughts
Cruising doesn’t have to break the bank. With just a little research and planning, you can enjoy the same amazing experience for a fraction of the price. Whether it’s snagging onboard credit from a price drop, sipping your own wine at sunset, or exploring local gems in port, these simple changes make a big difference.