Going on a cruise vacation is the key to an ultimate relaxing getaway. Do you believe it too? With days spent sailing through the open sea, entertainment, and indulging in fine dining onboard, is everything. Besides, you also get the chance to visit the exotic ports of call. But, often, most people believe that luxury cruising means breaking the bank. It’s not true. All you need is a plan and smart decisions to make your cruise vacation remarkable without overspending.
A Helpful Guide to an Affordable Cruising Experience
Efficient Tourism brings you the ultimate cruising guide to make your experience one of a kind. Let’s see how you can plan an exciting international cruise vacation without overspending.
1. Pre-book or Avail Last-Minute Deals
Timing is an important factor for cruise bookings. So, it is best to book your cruise at least six to twelve months in advance. This will ensure the best cabin selection. Moreover, advance booking brings you the opportunity to get exciting early bird discounts. Besides, the cruise lines reward the proactive travelers with discounted prices and often offer onboard credits or drink packages.
You can also save on your bookings with the last-minute deals, especially if you are flexible with dates or destinations. Moreover, cruise companies often slash prices close to the departure date. They don’t like traveling with empty cabins. So, you can sign up for the newsletters to receive notifications on deals.
2. Choose an All-Inclusive Package
A great way to keep a check on your cruise budget is to select all-inclusive packages. An all-inclusive cruise package normally covers meals, entertainment, and port taxes. Moreover, they often cover drinks and shore excursions. So, the chances of hidden charges reduce during the trip. Besides, some packages include Wifi and gratuities. These end up being added quickly on making a separate bill. So, it is best to make a price comparison and review if you are actually saving.
3. Travel During Shoulder Seasons
Did you know that cruise prices fluctuate depending on the season? So, the best time to travel is during the shoulder season. The package prices remain low, including fewer crowds at the shore destinations and at the ship’s amenities. Hence, you must book your International Cruise from Dubai during the shoulder season. After all, fewer tourists and more opportunities to visit the best spots will make your overall experience unforgettable.
4. Pick a Shorter Itinerary
Are you worried about your budget but want to make your cruise experience extraordinary? Go for a shorter cruise voyage of three to five days. Not only will it be fulfilling, but also won’t break your bank. Besides, you will get a complete dose of entertainment, delicious meals, and much more. On top of that, everything is at a fraction of the cost. Short cruises are ideal for first-timers or those who need a quick getaway. Besides, they are manageable if budget and overspending are your concerns.
5. Skip the Fancy Cabin
You might dream of enjoying cocktails while sitting in a balcony suite of a cruise. But, did you know that most of the time you will be exploring the ship or enjoying ports while cruising? So, it is best to book an interior suite or an ocean-view cabin. They are cheap and include similar amenities. Interior cabins are perfect for heavy sleepers or those who don’t require a cozy room. Similarly, ocean view cabins come with a window without the cost of a full balcony.
6. Avoid Onboard Overpricing
Once you board the cruise, every service will cost a fortune. So, whether it’s a fancy drink or a couple of spa treatment sessions, everything can raise your bill. So, it is important to be mindful of your expenditure. Also, avoid getting convinced to add unnecessary extras. Besides, always stick to the main dining rooms and go for free entertainment. Moreover, limit your purchases from onboard shops. Check the price of the beverage packages offered on the cruise.
7. Bring Your Own Essentials
Nothing beats the advantage of smart packing. It will help you save money since cruise stores charge high on daily items. Hence, carry your own toiletries and medication. Also, don’t forget to bring your own sunscreen and other personal items. You can also bring your reusable water bottles and snacks (if allowed). Also, make a separate bag for day excursions and bring the necessary medicines.
8. Plan Independent Shore Excursions
Excursions designed by the cruise lines are often overpriced. So, the best you can do is plan your own adventures at the port. Search for the destinations in advance and look for local travel agencies. Or contact Efficient Tourism to enjoy similar experiences at half the price. But, keep in mind that you have to return to the ship on time. The cruise won’t wait for you if you are late due to the independent trip.
9. Use Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Points
Whether you are a frequent traveler or plan for cruise getaways more often, the cruise line loyalty program can be your saviour of the day. These programs are useful and come with rewards for those who often go on cruise rides. Rewards mostly include cabin upgrades, discounts on services, etc. Besides, travel rewards credit cards offer redeemable points for cruises, flights, or hotels. So, it is best to compare cards and select one that will fulfill your travel style.
10. Set a Daily Budget and Stick to It
Making a budget is the best solution if you want to enjoy the cruise experience without regrets. So, plan a daily expenditure limit and stick to it. Also, monitor the tiniest expenses you make daily on the cruise. You can do this with the cruise line’s app. Once you get to know where your money is going, it will help you stay in control. Besides, whether you are spending $20 or $200, it should go into something that matters to you.
Final words
A cruise vacation doesn’t mean splurging. You can make it extraordinary and memorable with smart planning and by enjoying your cruise vacation without overspending on unnecessary extras. This will make your cruise holiday exciting without emptying your pocket. So, book your International Cruise from Dubai with Efficient Tourism today!
