Introduction
A cruise is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy your vacation time with your significant other, family, friends or even alone. With so many destinations now available for cruises, there is surely a cruise line and cruise destination that will suite your each and every need and want. In order to find cheap cruises, you'll need to do your research ahead of time.
Step 1
Contacting your travel agent is one of the best ways to find cheap cruises. Travel agents are professionally trained to help their customers find the best deals and get the most out of their money. If you have never used a travel agent before, then do some research on the Internet about travel agents in your area, especially those that specialize in cheap cruises. At times, using a travel agent can be very beneficial, especially if you do not have the time do to all the reserving and bargain hunting yourself for cheap cruises.
Step 2
If you have the time to search yourself, try searching online for travel providers that offer cheap cruises. There is an extensive list of websites that offer cheap cruises. For example, Kayak.com, Expedia.com and Cruisebrothers.com have a compiled list of results pertaining to your cheap cruise needs. Their travel search engines will allow you to learn more about the average cost of a cruise, what the cruise line offers and other pertinent information.
Step 3
When shopping for cheap cruises, also take into consideration the itinerary and try not to focus too much on the cruise ships name. One of the most important aspects of a cruise is the itinerary and what you will be doing off shore. Many people think that just because a cruise line is not a well known and popular cruise line, that the cruise is not even worth looking at. Contrary to popular belief, many cruise lines that are less popular, offer much better itineraries off shore.
Step 4
Shopping for an inside cabin can also save you some cash when it comes to booking cheap cruises. Interior cabins typically are a lot cheaper than exterior cabins. However, they are just as glamorous, comfortable and relaxing as other rooms on the ship. Many cruise lines will have customers pay up to thirty percent more for cabins located on the actual deck. If you're willing to settle for an interior cabin, you will surely will be doing your pocket book or wallet a favor.
Step 5
Another suggestion is to avoid expensive add on's when shopping for cheap cruises. Cruise lines will rope you in with expensive 'premium dining rooms' or 'gourmet meals' that are not included in the original price. Cruise ships will also add on additional money for alcoholic beverages or even at times for activities. You can very easily find a cruise line that offers an all inclusive dinner and bar price, that is already included in the original fare.
Tips
If you are looking for a thrifty, fun, memorable and relaxing cruise, you will just need to do a bit of research before hand to find the best cheap cruises. If booking through a travel agency, you will want to sit down with your travel agent and ask explain what you are looking for out of their services. If booking on your own, make sure you have a written out list of things you expect from a cruise line, research and plan accordingly.
