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How can i find a cheap cruise.

Cheap cruise deals are fairly easy to find in most cases, and you can begin by considering what kind of features and itinerary you want. The more simplistic the experience is, the cheaper it is in general. On Expedia.com, you can filter for specific features and sort your results by price. By mixing and matching certain features, unforgettable experiences may be available with discount cruises. For example, booking a cruise with stunning restaurants and live performances while opting for an inside cabin without an ocean view window or balcony could be ideal for a traveler who doesn't plan on spending much time in their cabin anyways

What is the cheapest month to take a cruise?

The cheapest month to take a cruise varies based on your destination and the cruise line company that runs the ship. A Caribbean cruise , for example, is generally cheapest in the late summer and early fall since it's the local hurricane season.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel, but there may be fees for canceling depending on how far in advance you cancel and what kind of booking you have. You can check the specific cruise lines’ cancellation policies in your itinerary on Expedia.com.

Are river cruises worth the money?

River cruises are quite relaxing, with much more varied scenery than you'd experience on an ocean cruise. These ships often also feature several stops along the river, so passengers can enjoy a greater variety of destinations to explore. Viking river cruises are especially adept at providing this unforgettable experience.

What cruises are best for families?

The best family cruises in 2024 / 2025 tend to be Disney cruises with plenty of offerings for kids and adults alike, though MSC cruises are known for their iconic Children Cruise Free promotion. Disney cruises, specifically, are essentially a Disney theme park on a boat with live shows, rides, and attractions with your kids' favorite characters.

How much does a cruise ship cost?

Cruise prices can vary quite a bit, with cheap cruises and especially luxurious all-inclusive cruises available. Budget lines can offer cruise tickets as low as $50 per night in some cases, while the more high-end experiences can reach up to $1,000 per night and more.

What are some of the best cruise lines?

Several different cruise lines have a lot to offer, such as Viking cruises , which are known for traversing oceans and rivers with a style that blends outdoor and indoor splendor. Celebrity cruise line is more upscale with luxurious features like WiFi, included beverages, champagne, and suites with panoramic views. Other top cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise , Disney Cruise , and Norwegian Cruise .

How far in advance do you need to book a cruise?

It's generally best to book a cruise about 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure. That's the safest way to balance availability and affordability. Technically, you can book earlier or later than that, with some last-minute cruise deals occasionally available up to a weekbefore cruise departure.

Are cruise trips affordable?

They can be, and it's especially simple to search for more affordable cruises with Expedia.com. Not only can you filter by cruise length, cruise line, and cabin experience, but you may also sort your results by price to put the more affordable options first on your search results page.

What is it like to go on a cruise?

A cruise is generally designed to offer the most relaxing experience possible. Despite the size of the ship, it's possible to feel the wave. Many passengers report that the movements help them sleep. Additionally, many fun cruises offer live stage performances, several restaurants, and shopping opportunities. When the ship is in international waters, you may even be able to enjoy a bit of tax-free shopping.

Are cruises a good way to travel?

Cruise travel is great if you're looking for some varied fun. Compared to a plane or a train, cruises have their own attractions and can be considered an integral part of cruise vacations. Plus, a cruise can hit several different destinations as well, with plenty of time to enjoy the cruise and scenic locales. It's certainly worth it for a unique experience no other method of travel can match.

Which cruise line is the cheapest?

The actual cheapest cruise available depends on a variety of different factors. Still, Carnival Cruise tends to be very affordable overall, most of the time with great options like the Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Horizon . Royal Caribbean is also another fantastic cruise line offering great deals if you are watching your budget.

How can I get the best cruise deals in 2024 / 2025?

If you're looking for some of the best cruise deals, booking through Expedia.com makes it easy since you can sort your cruise search results by price and have access to special deals. One Key members can earn OneKeyCash on all eligible bookings and get instant discounts with Member Prices. Sign up today!

What do I need to know when I book a cruise?

To book a cruise, you'll need to know where you'll be setting off from and where you'll be going, in addition to how many people will be with you and the features of the specific cruise you book. Keep in mind that you'll want to factor in spending money in your budget for the cruise's restaurants and shops in most cases.

Where should I go on a cruise in 2024 / 2025?

Plenty of incredible cruise destinations are accessible such as cruises to the Bahamas and cruises to Mexico . You may also be interested in cruises to Alaska or cruises to Europe for something outside of the Caribbean.

What countries are best to visit by cruise ship?

A lot of countries are accessible via a cruise, but the best include a cruise to Australia . However, a cruise to Australia is quite a long trip at sea and really allows you to take in everything the cruise ship has to offer.

Can I get last-minute cruise deals?

Yes, last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can find them on Expedia.com by inputting your travel dates in your search and sorting your results by price. The deals will automatically be applied to the price estimates so that the cheapest estimates will show up first on your search results page.

Are cruises all-inclusive?

Cruises aren't always all-inclusive, but they can be. If you're interested in all-inclusive cruises, you can activate a search filter for it to ensure your search results only show cruises that meet your all-inclusive standard.

Is food free on a cruise?

Food is sometimes free on a cruise, but there are often specialty restaurants that aren't included with the general booking that you'll have to pay for separately. Check the details of each cruise before you book in the "What's included" section after clicking the cruise on your search results page.

What cruise lines are adults only?

Several lines offer adults-only cruise experiences, including Viking cruises , Carnival cruises , and Princess cruises . With an adults-only cruise, you can relax in a tranquil and laid-back setting without kids running around and enjoy all the cocktails you want.

What cruise lines are considered to be the most luxurious?

Viking cruises are considered exceptionally luxurious, with smaller ships and larger cabins that make them feel more exclusive, but Celebrity cruises offer luxury cruise lines too. Booking a luxury cruise means you can expect high-end amenities including gourmet restaurants, sizable suites, top-tier performances, massive pools, and much more.

What are the best cruises for couples?

Viking Cruises have much to offer for a more romantic experience. Holland America Line cruises can be quite refined and romantic as well, with an adult-oriented experience that's sophisticated rather than rowdy. Romantic cruises offer exceptional service as well as cozy suites for you and your partner to enjoy that's complemented by delicious food often themed around the cruise destination.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

Going on a cruise is a great way for you and your new spouse to be pampered with luxury while also being able to explore a new destination. Whether you're taking a cruise to Hawaii or a cruise to Bermuda , a particularly romantic experience is almost guaranteed thanks to the sheer number of things to do.

Are there any Christmas cruises?

Yes, quite a few cruise lines operate around Christmas, and you can find them easily by entering travel dates around Christmas into your 2024 cruise search. Some of the most popular Christmas cruises are available with Carnival and Disney.

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

Whether or not you need a passport depends on where you're going and the kind of cruise it is. Any US territory like Bermuda and Puerto Rico won't require a passport, of course, but you also don't need one if you're on a closed-loop cruise. This is a cruise that begins and ends at a US cruise terminal, even if there are stops in other countries on the way.

Why should I book a cruise with Expedia.com?

Booking a cruise with Expedia.com makes it easy to find a cruise type that works best for you. You can use the cruise finder and sort by cruise line, type, destination, length, and itinerary. One Key members also earn OneKeyCash on all eligible bookings that can be used to save on future eligible trips.

What happens if a cruise is canceled?

Every cruise has a different cancellation policy, but generally, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or a credit for a future cruise at a later date. Remember that they may automatically change your booking to their rescheduled date, so you may have to contact them if that date doesn't work for your schedule.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.

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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to destinations like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment, all rolled into one. Some cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. Cruising means seeing the world while unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids and teens -- all for free. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship for you. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with staying at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- all their extras.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their cabins but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors.

Cruise lines such as MSC Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes lower. Here's a tip: Many times, the smaller ships from these lines offer the smallest prices.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

Being flexible will get you the best last-minute cruise deals. If you live near a cruise port and can drive, you're probably going to be able to jump on those deals that might pop up a week or two before the ship is set to sail.

If you don't have flexibility with dates and locations, be willing to bend on destination. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise costs on average. When you see it drop, pounce! Many cruise lines update pricing several times every day, so be prepared.

Best cruises in 2020

Part of the appeal of cruising is that there's truly something for everyone. Ships come in an array of sizes, some loaded with so many activities, you couldn't get to them all in a week.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations to which they sail. The Caribbean is a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, also is a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise lines such as Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Disney, Celebrity, MSC and Holland America for a family cruise.

River cruising has been heating up over the past few years, with itineraries that send passengers down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to even more exotic locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam or the Volga River in Russia. Popular river cruises embark in cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. Popular river cruise lines include Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon, Scenic, Emerald Waterways, Tauck, Uniworld and Crystal.

If you're a thrill-seeker, consider an expedition cruise. These cruises, often onboard small ships, offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world, including Antarctica, Alaska, Australia and Greenland. Passengers will spend their time kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, Hurtigruten, Ponant and Quark Expeditions.

Luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard smaller ships with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be smaller, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships can't -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Azamara, Viking Oceans and Silversea.

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How to Find Cheap Cruises: The Complete Guide

When it comes to affordability, it’s hard to beat what you get with a cruise. Instead of booking transportation and hotels, then having to shell out more for entertainment, restaurants, and activities on a traditional trip, it’s all included in one price.

The result is a fantastic value for what you get. Even so, there are definitely some cruises that offer a lot better pricing and value than others. If you’re wanting to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a cruise, that’s possible. But it’s also possible to get by spending hundreds on the cheapest cruises … if you know where to look.

After years of searching for cruises — including taking trips that cost as little as $106 per person aboard one of the most popular cruise lines in America — here is exactly what we’ve learned about how to find the cheapest cruises, no matter where you want to sail.

In This Article...

Start Your Cruise Search With An Aggregator Site

If you want to find the cheapest cruise, then it makes sense that you want to search across all the cruise lines. After all, going to a cruise line’s website first and searching there limits you to only their trips.

Instead, any number of sites like Orbitz or AvoyaTravel can search across every line , with the ability to narrow things down by destination, date, and number of nights. As well, you can sort by price to find the absolute lowest fares .

Personally, we like to start a search on these sites and then book directly through the cruise line. There’s nothing wrong with booking through a third-party, but it does add another layer to the process. If there is a cancellation or price change, we like knowing that we can contact the cruise line directly.

Shorter = Cheaper (But Not Necessarily The Best Value)

All things considered, the shorter a cruise’s length, then the less money it’s going to cost. That shouldn’t be a surprise. So if you want to sail on the overall least expensive cruises, then look for trips that are 3-5 days in length.

But don’t mistake a cheap price for the best value. Often you’ll find that longer cruises are actually cheaper on a per-day basis, offering a better value for what you are spending . On this basis, a $500 per person 7-day cruise is “cheaper” than a $300 3-day cruise.

You’ll need to decide if you’re looking for the least expensive cruise overall or the best value when you start your search.

Avoid Sailing In The Summer

If you’re like many people, then summer is the most convenient time to cruise. Maybe you have kids who are off of school, or simply want to have a summer vacation when things at work slow down with everyone else out of the office.

If you want a cheap cruise, however, avoid sailing in the summer . During this time cruise lines see higher demand as more people look to travel. The result is higher prices.

How much higher? It’s not unusual to see the same trip cost hundreds more in the summer than during the lulls in spring or fall.

Of course, if sailing to Alaska you can’t avoid having to sail during the summer season as these trips don’t go year-round.

Cheapest Cruise Months: January, February, September, October

If you have the most flexibility and are sailing from North America, check out cruises in January, February, September and October. Generally they seem to be the least expensive options .

For months like November and December times outside the holidays are pretty cheap, but prices spike for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Older Ships Mean Cheaper Fares

No, not every trip on an older ship will be less expensive compared to a cruise on a newer ship . But as a rule of thumb, the older a ship is, the less expensive you can expect its cruises to be.

New ships? These days they are nothing short of floating resorts, with Broadway shows, amusement parks, and fine dining added in for good measure.

Older ships still have plenty to offer and can be an amazing time, but they just aren’t quite on the same level. And since everyone wants to enjoy the latest and greatest, the newer ships are priced accordingly.

So when you do find some of the cheapest cruises, expect them to be on older ships in the fleet. The good news is that these ships are regularly updated, so it’s not like you’re going to be sailing a cruise on a ship that looks like it’s from the 1970s with shag carpet! They just might not have the space and amenities seen on larger, newer vessels.

Try Your Fare With And Without Your Loyalty Number

Every cruise line has a loyalty program. Sail more nights and over time you’ll earn more perks. This includes access to exclusive fares, benefits on the ship, and more.

Whenever you book your cruise online through the cruise line’s website, there is typically a place to put in your loyalty number. Then it will show you fares.

In some cases, we’ve noticed that the rates when your number is entered can actually come out higher than without it .

Just don’t automatically assume that your loyalty account gives you the best rates. Search both with and without the number entered.

Casino Players Can Get Discounted Fares

Head to Las Vegas and drop a boatload of cash and don’t be surprised if you get a comped room. It’s a similar situation with cruises.

Just about every ship has a casino, and your play is tracked just like if you went to Vegas. Play enough and cruise lines will offer you sharply discounted cruises , sometimes for seemingly pennies on the dollar.

Is it a good deal? Well cruise lines aren’t offering you casino rates because they just want to be nice. If you’re paying $200 for a cabin, but dropping $1,000 in the casino, that’s not much different than paying $1,200 for the vacation.

Even so, you should know that if you’re a big gambler there are some benefits to your play on the ship in the form of heavily discounted cruise fare.

Don’t Wait For A Cruise Line Sale… They Don’t Really Matter

Here’s a secret about cruise line sales — they run constantly. And while they do change here and there, most of the time it seems like they all end up at the same price .

Sure you might save a few bucks, but it’s not like one day the price will be 30% less when a new sale hits compared to the day before.

That’s not what you’d think at first glance, however. Cruise lines use tools like big countdown timers on their websites, talk about exclusive offers, or wording like “last chance.”

Are there some sale offers that actually are good and only around for a little while? Sure. But what we’ve seen is that the vast majority are ones that are only tweaked slightly and then presented as new.

The sales are a way to get your attention and excited to book, but they typically don’t seem to have a large impact on what you pay from one day to the next. When you “sail” will be a much bigger influence than when you “sale.”

See If You Can Pay With Credit Card Rewards

These days many of us have credit cards with reward points. So spend a dollar, get a point that can be put toward cash back, your statement, gift cards, travel, and more.

No matter what sort of card you have, if you have some earnings, then it’s a smart idea to cash them in to help pay for your trip.

Sure, it’s not necessarily a way to find a cruise for less money, but it is less money that comes out of your pocket for the vacation .

Costco Travel Is Great For Cruises (High Incentives)

If you’re a Costco member, then you are sitting on one of the best places to buy a cruise.

There are seemingly hundreds of websites where you can buy a cruise through. And what you’ll find is that they all seem to have the same price . So a cruise for $579 on the cruise line website is $579 on Orbitz.

Where they differ sometimes is that some places will offer things like onboard credit or rewards for booking through them. In our hunts, Costco seems to be the king in this department. If you’re a member, then you can book through Costco Travel. There, the fare will be what you see elsewhere, but they offer Costco Shop Cards as an incentive .

These cards are essentially gift cards to Costco that can be used like cash at the store. And in our experience the amounts can be substantial compared to the price of the cruise. We’ve seen rewards upwards of 10% of the cruise fare.

If you’re a member, don’t book without checking out Costco first for your trip. If you aren’t a member, then it might be worth joining up.

Read: The Best Websites to Buy a Cruise

Repositioning Cruises Are Among The Cheapest You’ll Find

If you are flexible… and I mean really flexible… with how you sail, then look at repositioning cruises.

A normal cruise begins and ends in the same port. So you hop on the ship in Miami, sail around the Caribbean for a week, and come back to Miami. But sometimes a ship is being moved from port to port. So a ship may sail from Miami to Europe for the summer.

As you might expect, filling a ship that starts in one port and ends in another — especially on a lengthy trip like across the Atlantic — can be tougher. That leads to some ridiculously cheap cruise fares .

Royal Caribbean, for example, has a 12-night cruise from Barcelona to Barbados starting at just $421 per person for cruise fare. That comes out to just $35 per day. An 11-night cruise aboard Anthem of the Seas leaves New York for England, at just $655.

The only catch? You are on your own for getting back home.

Check Prices And Call The Cruise Line If You See A Cheaper Fare After Booking

If you want the cheapest cruise, then your work isn’t quite done even after you book. You’ll want to check in from time to time (once every week or two) to see what the price is now.

Like airfare (although not as drastic), cruise fares do fluctuate. There’s always a possibility that you may book a trip and then the price falls. In that case, don’t hesitate to call the cruise line or your travel agent.

Many times you can call and get some help with the lower fare in the form of a refund or onboard credit for the difference. It doesn’t always work, but for the little time it takes, it is definitely worth the effort.

Should I Wait To Buy A Cruise Until Last Minute?

Last-minute fares aren’t really a thing anymore. It makes sense that if a cruise is about to sail with an empty cabin that the cruise line would slash the fare to at least get somebody in the room.

In reality, that’s not the case. For one, in normal times ships sail above 100% occupancy . That means every cabin has at least two people in it and some have more. In other words, ships don’t normally sail with empty cabins.

Of course, with the health crisis that’s changed a bit, but cruise lines have largely made it a point to keep pricing steady as the sail date nears. After all, if a cruise always dropped prices right before the trip, then it would train passengers to wait to book for better deals.

Which Cruise Line Has The Cheapest Cruises?

You can find deals from any cruise line, but there are some that definitely seem to offer cheaper cruises overall.

Among the major cruise lines, we find that Carnival and MSC tend to be less expensive on average than what you’ll find elsewhere.

That said, don’t let that keep you from searching across all lines. There are some routes and times where you can find cheaper cruises from other lines.

Do Computer “Cookies” Matter When Searching Online for Cruises? Do They Change Prices?

There is a belief among some people that if you search for a cruise on your computer multiple times, that the price will increase as it shows you are more interested in buying.

The idea is that a cookie on your computer browser tracks your visits and bumps up the price to earn more money for the cruise line.

Having searched and bought cruises online for years, we can tell you that we’ve never seen any sort of evidence that this happens . We’ve priced the same cruise over and over, searched in “incognito” windows, different browsers, etc. with no change in price.

Where we have seen price differences is when entering our loyalty number, which sometimes is automatically filled in with your browser’s cookies. It’s not often, but sometimes there are actually higher prices with this number entered than without.

What Is A Good Price For A Cruise?

Of course, with all the different dates, routes, lengths, and ships, the price of a cruise can vary widely. So what is a good price?

We have more details on what’s a good price here , but in general you can consider the prices below as relatively cheap. Note that these are priced per day for an interior cabin — so you can compare these with the “headline” prices you see quoted on websites.

Good Prices for a Cruise (interior, per person, before taxes/fees): Caribbean/Bahamas/Mexico: $75 per night Alaska: $100 per night Mediterranean: $85 per night

Why Is The Price I Pay So Much More Than The Headline Price?

When shopping for a cheap cruise, you’ll notice that there are low “headline” fares mentioned. So a 7-day cruise might go for $559, but the total cost is much higher — often three times as high — by the time you actually buy the trip.

That’s because of several reasons. First, prices on websites are quoted for the lowest-tier interior cabin. If you choose a higher-end room like a balcony, then that price will be higher.

As well, cruise fares are quoted on a per-person basis, but almost always are charged for double occupancy. So even if you sail solo, you’re charged for two cruise fares.

Finally, there are port fees and taxes. These can add another $100-$200 per person, depending on your specific trip.

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Plan the ultimate cruise vacation, how can i book a cheap cruise.

If you're looking for cheap cruise deals, booking with Expedia.ca allows you to customize your search with filters that will put the best value at the top of your search results. Filters are available for various factors, including cabin experience, cruise line, destination and more. In most cases, the simpler your cruise is, the cheaper it will be. Even so, you may still find discounts on luxury cruise experiences, so don't hesitate to filter for some more high-end amenities and sort by price to see the cheapest cruises available.

Which month is the cheapest for cruises?

There is no consistent answer for the cheapest month for cruises unless you specify a destination first. With a cruise to the Caribbean , for example, the cheapest month will be around August since that's when the region undergoes hurricane season.

What happens if a cruise gets cancelled?

Every cruise operates differently, but you'll generally get a choice between a rescheduled date, a refund or cruise credits. Check the policy on your cruise before booking to learn more.

How affordable are cruise trips?

Cruise trips can be surprisingly affordable given all the features you can enjoy on them. Booking with Expedia.ca lets you filter for features like cabin experience, cruise length, cruise line and cruise ship while also sorting the results by price to ensure that you're getting the cheapest options at the top of your search results page while still meeting your search filter specifications.

What are some of the top cruise lines?

Top cruise lines include Viking cruises and Disney cruise lines. While Viking excels at luxury, Disney is among the best when it comes to family-friendly experiences. Some of the other best cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International cruises , Carnival cruises , Princess cruises and Celebrity cruises . What really qualifies as the best is more up to what you're looking to get out of your experience. For example, travelling with kids typically means a Disney cruise or something similar is the best, while budget travellers may prefer Carnival.

How much are cruise ship tickets?

Cruise prices largely depend on the kind of cruise you opt for. Cruise ship costs can be fairly affordable, with cheap cruises only charging $50 a night per person or so for some of their trips, while luxury cruises can run you upwards of $1,000 per night per person or more.

How far ahead should I book a cruise?

Cruise tickets should be bought 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure in most cases. Tickets are technically available further in advance and closer to your cruise departure date. Still, the 6- to 12-month range is generally the best way to get the best deals without missing any opportunities.

What are cruises like?

The cruise you book will have plenty to see and do before you even reach the first destination stop. The ship can be just as exciting as the destinations on your route. Cruise vacations offer food and drinks along with pools, shops and live performances in some circumstances. You may even find a cruise with a water park and a cruise with a roller coaster among particularly luxurious options.

Are cruises a useful way to travel?

Cruise travel ensures that every step of the journey is fun, with activities available between destinations, starting from your cruise terminal. While cruises may only have a single destination, some will travel to multiple spots throughout their entire duration, allowing you to enjoy locales that are just as varied as the attractions on the ship.

Which cruise line is the most affordable in 2024 / 2025?

Deals are often available for just about every cruise line, but Carnival cruises tend to be the most affordable with their Mardi Gras ship . You can also usually find cheap cruises with Royal Caribbean . When searching for a cruise, remember to sort by price to put the most affordable options at the top of your search results page.

How do I get the top cruise deals?

Start your cruise search with Expedia.ca to get the best cruise deals by using our comprehensive filters to sort through our vast collection of offerings. Expedia.ca Rewards members may even find discount cruises through their membership perks, so don't hesitate to take advantage of the free membership.

What cruise would work best for me?

If you're looking for the absolute best cruise in the world, the answer depends on what you're personally interested in experiencing. A laid-back cruise is notably different from a family-friendly cruise with its own amusement park. Take advantage of search filters to narrow down your results to cruises that work for you.

What should I keep in mind when booking a cruise?

Finding a cruise you'll be satisfied with means considering the type of cruise you want and the budget you have to work with. See what's included in the price of a ticket and what you'll have to pay extra for. If aspects like food aren't included, for example, you'll need additional funds in your budget to cover that cost.

What are some of the best cruise destinations in 2024 / 2025?

Cruises can take travellers all over the world, whether you're looking for a cruise to Alaska , a cruise to Mexico or even Antarctic cruises . Cruises to the Middle East and cruises to Australia are popular as well. Think about the kind of cruise experience you want to determine which is the best destination. If you want plenty of time on the cruise, picking a faraway destination can be useful. You also need to consider the attractions available in the destination itself.

What countries should I visit on a cruise?

The Bahamas cruises are among the most iconic cruise destinations, but the cruises to Cuba can also be lovely. Of course, countries all over the world are available. Remember that cruises may not necessarily stop in a country for all that long, so keep in mind how long your visit will actually be when considering what you want to do during your stop.

Are last-minute cruise deals available?

Last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can check what's available by inputting your travel dates into the cruise finder on Expedia.ca. If you sort by price, the cheapest options will be listed first, including opportunities with special deals applied.

Are there all-inclusive cruises?

Yes, all-inclusive cruises are available and quite popular, and you can find them by using the search filter for all-inclusive. Celebrity cruises and Royal Caribbean cruises , for example, both offer all-inclusive packages.

Is food included with a cruise ticket?

Whether or not food is included in your cruise depends on your booking details. You can check to see what exactly is included with the ticket by checking the ‘What's included’ section of the cruise summary page after clicking it from your search results.

Are there adults-only cruise lines?

Some lines are adults only, including Viking cruises , though Carnival cruises and Princess cruises have options for adults-only cruises as well. With an adults-only cruise, you can immerse yourself in a peaceful and tranquil environment designed to make it easy to sit back and relax.

What kind of luxury cruise lines are there?

Luxury cruise lines include ships like the Caribbean Princess from Princess cruises , along with pretty much anything that Viking cruises have available. With luxury cruises, you can expect high-end amenities and a variety of things to see and do on the ship, such as shopping, dining, live performances, pools and even theme parks.

What family cruises are best suited for kids?

Disney cruises go above and beyond to offer fun cruises for kids and adults alike, but some cruises, like MSC cruises , have special promotions that allow children to get booked for free. Think of Disney cruises as having a Disney theme park on a ship with rides, shows and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Which lines offer the best cruises for couples?

Romantic experiences are easy to enjoy with Viking Cruises and Holland America Line cruises . The latter's Koningsdam Cruise is complemented by truly stunning views among breathtaking natural features. River cruises tend to be some of the most romantic, with more stops in historic romantic cities for you and your partner to enjoy.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

A cruise is one of the best ways to spend your honeymoon, as you and your partner can enjoy pampering at spa facilities with fine dining too. You can check what special features are available on every cruise on Expedia.ca in the ‘What's included’ section of their summary page.

Do cruises run around Christmas?

Yes, several cruises operate during Christmas, and you can find them by entering travel dates around Christmas to see what's available for a 2024 cruise to finish out the year. Carnival and Disney both offer special Christmas cruises with special activities and features centred around the holiday theme.

Is it worth going on a river cruise?

River cruises offer a bit of a different experience from ocean cruises, as they tend to have more stops and more varied sights to see. Viking river cruises are among the best available, as they got their start doing river cruises, making them have extensive experience with river journeys.

Are passports required for cruises?

You will need a passport if the cruise travels outside of Canada, even if you're leaving from a Canadian port like cruises from Vancouver . Cruises to the US require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. Cruises to other international locations require the same in addition to any potential necessary visas.

What are the benefits of booking a cruise with Expedia.ca?

When you book with Expedia.ca, you'll have access to an expansive catalogue of cruise options and search filters that allow you to narrow down those results as you see fit based on the destination, length, itinerary, cruise line and more. Additionally, Expedia.ca Rewards members accrue points on eligible purchases and other perks that can be put towards subsequent trips. Membership is free, so feel free to join and reap the benefits.

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budget cruising / Cruise Tips / Cruising

Budget Cruising: 20 Tips for Finding a Cheap Cruise

by Prof. Cruise · Published October 10, 2023 · Updated October 10, 2023

A woman with a shocked look on her face and a hand holding $100 bills with a cruise ship in the backgroud and text that reads: 20 Tips for Finding A Cheap Cruise.

Introduction

There are two questions I get asked more than all others combined: “Where do you get your hair done?” and “How can you afford to cruise so often?”

That first question is 100% a lie (just seeing if anyone was actually reading this). I’ve never once been asked about my hair in a non-disparaging way, but I’ll answer it anyway, because it’s related to the second question.

I hack it off myself.

I’ve been cutting my own hair for years, long before it became cool (or necessary) during the Covid pandemic. I hack off my kid’s hair too. And my dog’s. And I’d hack off my husband’s if he didn’t feel it necessary to defend himself with a fireplace poker at the mere suggestion.

And that brings us to the second question: “How can you afford to cruise so often?”

I’m cheap !

Before retiring from my job as a college professor to become a full-time cruiser, I gained a bit of a reputation around campus as a scavenger. I’d show up at any event offering free food, load up a plate higher than someone hanging out under the bleachers with Willie Nelson and Snoop Dog, stick around after the event until everyone cleared out, then pack up enough leftovers to feed my family for the rest of the week. Occasionally I’d have to miss an event and my colleagues or students would leave a “to go” container outside my office door stuffed with cold pasta bake and sauce-soaked garlic bread.

It’s no surprise that my thrifty (cheap) ways carried over to my current career as a Professor of Cruising. And now, after many years of cruising on dozens and dozens of ships and itineraries on nearly every non-luxury line, I’ve mastered how to maximize my cruise experience for the least amount of money. While I also have lots of tips on how to save money onboard your cruise, this post is dedicated to finding cheap cruise fares.

The tips I offer are all ones I use myself, tips the cruise lines would prefer you didn’t know, because their number one goal, above all else, is to squeeze every possible penny from every passenger from as many different revenue streams as possible. Which brings me to my first tip, a tip that encompasses all the others:

Tip 1 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Be a savvy consumer

I’d actually take this a step further and suggest you be a skeptical consumer. Use the same basic principles for cruise spending you would for any other significant purchase:

Shop around
Ask questions
Be disciplined
Don’t be susceptible to advertising, gimmicks, or high-pressure sales tactics

Let’s talk more about shopping around.

Tip 2 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Price shop

I’ve learned that the easiest way to do this is by using a website run by the online travel agency:

Vacations To Go

I have no relationship with this company and have only booked a few cruises through them, but I love their website for price shopping. By way of an example, I’m currently looking at cruises from Seattle for the first two weeks in May 2024. I entered these search terms into the user friendly search boxes and got this:

Their clean, simple format makes it quick and easy to scan for the lowest price. The “fancy” layouts of most other cruise websites make this process very difficult. Once I find the price I like, I’ll book through one of my preferred travel agencies (more on that later). Note that you will have to enter an e-mail address to use Vacations To Go, but I opted out of marketing e-mails from them and have never received any spam.

Tip 3 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Don’t remain loyal to one cruise line

You probably know people who proudly declare they are “Loyal to Royal” or another cruise line. You yourself might have a preference for one line or may feel locked into a particular line because of your status in their loyalty program. I get it – I have a very high loyalty status on several lines and definitely enjoy the perks. But if you’re going for value, it can pay off in a huge way to be more flexible with which line you sail. I would never pay a significantly higher cruise fare to take advantage of perks that really aren’t worth very much. Plus you might find out there are other lines you really love (I’ve sailed them all and love specific things about all of them). I wrote a whole article about this topic here:

Ten Reasons You Should NOT Remain Loyal To A Single Cruise Line (And One Reason You SHOULD)

Tip 4 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Look for pricing under $100 per person per day

At anything above that, cruising loses its value for me. That doesn’t mean you should never cruise at a price above that, it just means that it may not be a “value” vacation. If you’re looking primarily for value, a land-based vacation may make more sense. This price may seem impossibly low, but I’ve sailed on all the major lines for under (often significantly under) $100 per person per day (not including port charges, fees, taxes, or gratuities – we’ll talk about that later): Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Carnival, Holland America, and Norwegian.

Tip 5 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Cruise during the off-season

The absolute best way to save money on cruising is to sail during the off-season. I’ve found the best deals to warm weather destinations are in early December (before the Christmas break for students) and in January (after the new year) and early February (before spring breaks start). For Alaska, you’ll find the best prices early in the season (April and May) or late in the season (September and October).

You’ll also have the added bonus of fewer kids onboard if you prefer a more serene experience.

Tip 6 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Don’t book directly with the cruise line

Cruise prices are the same (with very few exceptions) regardless of where you book. You’ll pay the same basic cruise fare whether you book directly though the cruise line or through an online or local travel agency. However , booking with an online or local travel agency will offer perks the cruise lines can’t match, usually onboard credit or other perks (bottles of wine, excursion credit, free cabin upgrade, etc). Occasionally travel agents will also have access to group rates for specific sailings that can also reduce your fare. Shop around for the best incentives!

Do note that if you book though a travel agency (online or local), all communication will need to go through them. Meaning if you want to ask about a price drop, you’ll need to call your travel agency and they will contact the cruise line on your behalf. This can be a bit inconvenient at times, but I’ve found it’s worth it.

In terms of where I book, I usually check these for sites and and my local travel agent and go with the one offering the best incentives:

Cruise Direct

Costco Travel

Direct Line Cruises

Tip 7 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Watch prices after you book

Even after you find a price you like and book your cruise, continue to watch the price for your specific sailing and cabin category (more on that later). If you notice the price has dropped, immediately get on the phone with the travel agency or cruise line you booked through.

Under certain conditions (for example Carnival’s Early Saver program – more on that later too) a line will honor price drops and either refund you the difference or issue onboard credit. If they don’t (especially after your final payment due date), they will often upgrade you to a better cabin or offer a smaller amount of onboard credit. This doesn’t always happen, but I’ve found that it can’t hurt to ask and 9 times out of 10 I’ve received some sort of concession.

Tip 8 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Book the cheapest cabin category

In other words, book an inside cabin on a low floor all the way at the front or back of the ship. Or, even better, book a guarantee (meaning the cruise line selects the specific cabin for you) inside cabin (more on that in a second). Some people can’t imagine sailing in an inside cabin (meaning it has no window or balcony), but I love them. I never sleep better than in an inside cruise cabin (they get super dark and it’s like curling up in a cozy den as you get rocked to sleep at night – very womb-like) and there are so many lovely public outdoor deck areas to enjoy on every ship.

I’ve sailed in oceanview and balcony cabins plenty of times too, but normally I don’t find the “retail” price difference worth it (of course, many do. Your call on that one).

Tip 9 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Bid for an upgrade

Note above that I said “retail” price of an oceanview or balcony cabin. Many cruise lines will offer passengers the option to “bid” on a cabin upgrade. I’ve had great success with this on a number of occasions (in fact most of the times I’ve sailed in non-inside cabins have been the result of successful lowball bids), but there are some things to keep in mind.

A description of Norwegian's Upgrade Advantage

First, this will not be a viable option if your cruise sells out – there simply won’t be any cabins to bid on. Second, there is no magic formula when it comes to how much you should bid. The cruise lines will always take the highest bids to fill any empty cabins and you’ll have no way of knowing what the highest bids are. However, it can be helpful to do a mock booking for any categories that you want to bid on to see how those cabins are selling. If there are still a ton of cabins available as your sail date nears, your chances of winning a bid will be higher (although cruise lines drop prices significantly in those cases and most cruises these days do sell out as a result) Third, some people end up spending more through bidding on a cabin upgrade than they would by just watching prices as the sail date approaches and calling to upgrade at the going rate. Always watch prices!

Tip 10 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Book a guarantee cabin

This means the cruise line selects the specific cabin for you (at any point prior to sailing – sometimes pretty far out, but sometimes even the day of sailing). Some may find this too risky, but I’ve always had a positive experience with it. I’ve never ended up with a cabin I’ve hated and several times I’ve ended up with awesome free upgrades (I’ve even booked a guarantee inside and ended up in a balcony). Of course, I offer no “guarantees” except that you will be assigned a cabin in the category you booked or higher.

I wrote a whole blog post on guarantee cabins here if you want to learn more.

Tip 11 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Don’t book an unusual cabin category

While those aft facing balcony cabins (and other “rare” and in-demand cabin types) are awesome, they’re not a good idea from a value perspective. Because of supply and demand, they will be priced high to start with. And because they are rare and likely to be booked up fast, you won’t be eligible for price drops. The more cabins that exist in your specific cabin category, the more likely it is you will benefit from a price drop. If cruise lines have a bunch of a certain category type left as sailing nears, they will often drop the price significantly. And that’s when you call and ask for a price adjustment, cabin upgrade, or other concession (or just cancel and re-book if it’s within the window where you are able to do that without losing a deposit).

Tip 12 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Book “Early Saver” on Carnival

I’m trying not to be too line-specific with these tips (because remember what I said about not being loyal to any particular line), but I’m going to make one exception. Carnival is one cruise line where it pays to book early if you book under the “Early Saver” promotion. If you’re committed to Carnival and are able to plan pretty far in advance, I’d strongly suggest you book the “Early Saver” fare. All the details can be found here , but the lowdown is that this fare offers price protection up to 2 days before sailing as long as you book out a certain number of days in advance of your sailing.

Tip 13 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Look for repositioning cruises or those with odd itineraries

One of my proudest cruise deals was a 16-day full-transit Panama Canal cruise for $76 per person per day (that doesn’t include port charges, fees, taxes, or gratuities). It was a repositioning cruise, moving the ship from Florida where it sails from during the winter months to Seattle where it would spend the spring and summer sailing to Alaska.

You can often find great prices on these repositioning cruises or cruises with odd itineraries (for example, those with an unusually large number of sea days – usually transatlantic or transpacific cruises).

Very short 1-3 day cruises can sometimes also be a great value, especially if you want to experience a different cruise line or ship before booking a longer (more expensive) itinerary. I have a whole post on them here if you want to learn more.

Tip 14 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Remember to factor in port charges, fees, taxes, and automatic gratuities

Throughout this post you’ll notice that I’ve talked about the base cruise fare and in parentheses I’ve clarified that the fare does not include port charges, fees, taxes, and gratuities. If you’re on a budget, be sure to factor in these extra charges. The best way to do that is to do a mock booking to see exactly how much they will be. On the Panama Canal cruise I mentioned above, the port charges, fees, taxes, and gratuities added up to an additional $1441.20 for two people. Port charges can be wildly different depending on itinerary, so always look them up in advance of committing yourself to a particular sailing.

Tip 15 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Consider purchasing flights, hotels, and transfers through your cruise line

Normally I would advise against purchasing flights, hotels, and transfers through the cruise line. You’ll often pay more or get stuck with something less than ideal (a red-eye flight for example or many connections). However, sometimes from a cost saving perspective it actually does pay to book a “bundle” that includes airfare, hotels, transfers, etc. If you’re flying to the departure port, compare the cost of cruise line airfare with what you’d pay booking flights and transfers to and from the airport (and maybe a pre or post cruise hotel) on your own. Sometimes cruise lines will offer “free air” or “two-for-one” air that can save you significant money. I was able to save over $1000 on an upcoming cruise embarking in Buenos Aires by taking advantage of a two-for-one airfare promotion. Mind you, the flights are ROUGH, with multiple connections and many hours spent waiting in airports, but for me it was worth the significant savings.

On our last cruise to Hawaii, it actually ended up costing less for us to book a package through NCL that included a balcony cabin, airfare to and from Honolulu, transfers to and from the ship, and the gratuities on a “free” drink package than it would have to book an inside guarantee cabin (with no “free” beverage package included) plus airfare to and from Hawaii booked separately on our own.

ALWAYS price out several different options. Speaking of “packages”…

Tip 16 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Avoid “all inclusive” fares

More and more cruise lines are moving toward an “all-inclusive” model (“Free at Sea” or “Have It All” or “Princess Plus/Premier”) where they charge much higher fares that include perks like a drink package, speciality dining, internet, and other items once considered “extras.” While these packages can sound tempting and can be an okay value (they are never a great value or the cruise lines wouldn’t offer them) for those who would buy those individual items anyway, they are NOT a good value for many cruisers. Always price out a basic, standard (sometimes called “sail away”) fare with only the extras you really need. Remember that cruise lines are NEVER going to “give” you something that doesn’t bring them increased revenue. These packages are lucrative for the cruise lines which is why most have embraced them. Remember, be a savvy consumer!

Tip 17 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Ignore “sales”

There is ALWAYS a cruise “sale” or “special promotion” going on. Ignore them and use the other tips I’ve listed to find good prices.

Tip 18 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Book your cruise at the last minute

While other sites may encourage you to book early for the best rates, I have not found that to be true in most cases. I have almost always scored cheaper rates by purchasing after final payment is due for those who booked earlier. If you live within driving distance to a cruise port or have some flexibility, you can find some great deals on last minute bookings (within a few months of the sail date). Learn my specific tips about last minute cruising and read about the time I booked a cruise at 3pm the day before it was scheduled to sail here .

Tip 19 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: If cruising solo, look for sailings with a waived or reduced solo supplement

If you’re cruising alone (referred to in the cruising community as “solo cruising”) look for sailings with a reduced or even waived solo supplement. You can find a current list of sailings with either a reduced or waived solo supplement here . And you can learn all about solo supplements and solo cruising here .

Tip 20 for Finding a Cheap Cruise: Shop around for travel insurance

Even budget cruises are a significant expenditure for most people. I always recommend cruisers buy travel insurance to cover any unexpected illnesses or injuries, job loses, or other emergencies. However, I don’t recommend you buy coverage through the cruise lines. It will almost always cost more and may not cover what you need. I always go through a site like TravelInsurance.com * to compare plan prices offered by different companies to get exactly the coverage I want for the best price. Be sure to read the plans very carefully and understand exactly what they do and do not cover.

Be flexible, adaptable, and approach your cruise with a positive attitude and sense of adventure. Use the above tips and believe that regardless of when you go, which cabin you get, which ship you sail, where you go, what the weather is like, you’re going to make the absolute most of it and have a fantastic cruise. And you will! And more often because of all the money you saved!

Final Words

If cruising is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you or if you’re Elon Musk, feel free to ignore every word of this post and GO BIG! Book a suite, during peak season, booked through the cruise line, and with no insurance. But if you’re looking to cruise more with fixed funds, I hope you’ve found some of these booking tips helpful. I encourage you to post in the comments anything you’ve tried that I missed. I always love learning new tricks from my cruise friends and I’m sure other readers would be appreciative too.

However you choose to cruise, thrifty or extravagantly, enjoy every moment at sea!

And with that…

Class Dismissed !

Homework (10 points) : Share to the comments the best deal you ever found on a cruise. Bragging encouraged!

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Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising. Home port: Seattle. Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human. Lover of books and dessert. Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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How do the fares work?

To get on the standby list, travelers can select an itinerary on Holland America's list of standby-eligible voyages and call 877-724-5425 to join. (You can also have your travel advisor add you to the standby list on your behalf.)

Once you're on the list, you'll be charged $49 per person per day (not including taxes, fees and port expenses, which can cost several hundred dollars more). If you’re not selected for the cruise, you’ll receive a full refund.

When the week of the sailing arrives, the cruise line will start notifying standby passengers whether they made the cut. Guests are confirmed for their sailings in the order they were added to the standby list, so signing up early counts. Would-be passengers should expect to hear their status between seven to two days before the voyage’s departure.

Travelers who aren’t confirmed within two days of the sailing’s departure receive an immediate refund. Truly spontaneous travelers can choose to cut things even closer with a more nail-biting option: They can opt to remain on the standby list all the way up until 90 minutes before departure to see if there’s a no-show. If that doesn't work out, they’ll still get a full refund.

The deal could offer major savings to group travelers who have a bit of flexibility this summer, as the third and fourth guests in a stateroom can travel nearly for free—they would just be on the hook for taxes and fees. But young families are not eligible for cruising standby, as the fares are only available for travelers ages 21 and older. Since it would be a major gamble to travel long distances for an unconfirmed trip, the standby option makes the most sense for people who live in or near eligible ports like Vancouver , Seattle , San Diego , Fort Lauderdale , Boston , Montreal , or Quebec .

How can travelers take advantage?

In 2024, the bulk of standby fares that Holland America is offering are for Alaskan voyages departing Seattle, Whittier, and Vancouver, as well as New England and Eastern Canada voyages departing from Boston, Montreal, and Quebec City.

There are also a handful of transatlantic sailings departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, including an extended six-week sailing in November that meanders through dozens of Mediterranean ports in Italy, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, and Egypt, to name a few. Most of the dates for the standby itineraries stretch from May through September, with a few options in October and November as well.

It all sounds appealing, but there are a few factors travelers should keep in mind. “With this program, you've got to be extremely flexible in all aspects of your trip,” says Tanner Callais, founder of cruise travel advice site Cruzely . “Some of these cruises sail for extended periods of time, including up to 42 days,” which is the duration of that lengthy Mediterranean sailing. “You also don't know what sort of cabin you'll receive,” he says. “If you're someone that has to have a balcony room, then this might not be for you.

The type of cabin could, in fact, be a deal breaker for certain travelers. Holland America says it charges standby guests for an interior stateroom, a space as small as 143 square feet with no windows. But travelers could be assigned any category of room ranging up to a verandah stateroom, which ranges from 228 to 405 square feet with enough outdoor space to fit two deck chairs. However, it’s all based on availability.

“Travelers who want to benefit from a standby fare should keep in mind that once confirmed, Holland America Line assigns their room,” says Rob Clabbers, founder and president of the agency Q Cruise + Travel . “While that might result in savings, it means travelers may end up in the last remaining and likely less preferred location—above a theater or night club [or] all the way forward or aft. While this may work for some, it is definitely not recommended for those who fear seasickness, have mobility issues, would like to be close to travel companions, [or] want to be near or away from elevators,” he says.

Holland America Line also notes that these deals are intended for travelers who live within driving distance of the departure ports. “Booking a last-minute airline ticket could end up being more than the cost of the cruise,” Callais says. “That said, the fares are so low that if you have the flexibility, then it might be one of the best deals you'll ever find. This is especially the case if you're a solo traveler, as the double occupancy fare doesn't apply.”

Travelers will want to run the numbers on each voyage to ensure they’re receiving the best possible deal for enduring the hassle of last-minute arrangements. Some of the sailings do offer incredible value. “However, on other sailings, the savings are not nearly as great,” Clabbers says. “If you or your travel advisor do some research, you may very well find some sailings at fares that are similar or even lower than the $49 per day standby fare—and without the restrictions.”

For instance, it’s possible to book a seven-day Alaska sailing that departs June 9 on Holland America’s website, with prices for an inside room starting at $349 per person, plus $310 in taxes, fees, and port expenses. “You even get a $50 credit to spend on board per room, but the biggest advantage is that you can confirm this several weeks before sailing, so you can fine-tune your travel plans rather than have to wait until the very last minute,” says Clabbers.

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One of the better deals would be the 42-day Mediterranean Cruise leaving from Fort Lauderdale in November. Booking that sailing outright, “you would pay $5,479 plus $435 in taxes, fees, and port expenses per person based on double occupancy for an Inside room,” Clabbers says. But, if you sail the itinerary on standby and get confirmed, “you would pay a total $2,058 per person plus taxes. Obviously that would be a good deal.”

Will other cruise lines start offering standby prices?

You might be wondering why a cruise line would offer fares as low as $49 a day. At the end of the day, more guests on board means ships generate more money. “Obviously, a cruise line wants to sail with every cabin filled to maximize revenue and efficiency of scale,” says Callais. “If a room sails empty, the cruise line is still using the same amount of fuel and paying the crew and captain the same wage.”

The majority of new ships break even at 50% occupancy, while older ships need 80% occupancy to hit that benchmark, according to Tom Baker , president of Cruise Center .

Carnival Corporation, which is Holland America’s parent company, saw an average revenue of $236 per passenger each cruise day in 2023, while its direct expenses per passenger was about $156 each day, according to Callais’ analysis of the company’s earnings report . But whereas most of a line’s expenses are fixed, there’s always more room to increase revenue with more passengers, who are bound to spend more on the ship. “In other words, even if this standby rate is less than the cruise line would make at a normal rate, it's still better to earn a little money from it than zero,” Callais says.

Although Holland America is the only major cruise line currently offering the standby fare, it could catch on at other companies if it brings in enough money. “Like most industries, cruise lines are constantly looking at competitors and seeing what they are offering or doing that might benefit their business,” Callais says. “If it works, it will get picked up by others.”

Regardless, it’s likely that standby offerings will stay limited to certain lines, as well as specific ports and times of year. “If the program trains too many passengers to just wait and cruise standby, then that could actually end up hurting the bottom line,” Callais says.

But for many travelers, planning and looking forward to a trip is half the fun: "Part of the joy of travel is the anticipation of the experience," says Clabbers.

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The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

A middle aged woman in a sunbonnet relaxes on the top deck of a cruise ship during her vacation at sea

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Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Teppanyaki Restaurant on Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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Posted: July 3, 2023 | Last updated: April 8, 2024

Cruising is expensive, so researching before booking your cruise can save you money. There are many ways to get cheap cruise deals and save money ...

Booking early for a cruise can lead to the best deals for various reasons. Firstly, cruise lines offer early bird discounts and promotions such as onboard credit to entice early bookings. Secondly, there is wider availability of lower-priced fare categories when itineraries are initially released. Booking your cruise early allows you to take advantage of price protection guarantees, where you can request a price adjustment if the fare decreases before your cruise. You can select preferred cabin locations better as availability decreases closer to the sailing date.

<p><span>Early booking allows you to secure lower rates for flights and hotels associated with the cruise. Lastly, booking in advance gives you more time for planning and flexibility in choosing suitable cruise dates. While last-minute deals may be available, they are generally more limited and offer less choice and flexibility.</span></p>

Early booking allows you to secure lower rates for flights and hotels associated with the cruise. Lastly, booking in advance gives you more time for planning and flexibility in choosing suitable cruise dates. While last-minute deals may be available, they are generally more limited and offer less choice and flexibility.

<p><span>Cruising off-season offers several benefits, including lower prices, less crowding, enhanced service, a more comprehensive selection of cabins, unique itineraries, and potentially milder weather and scenic beauty. </span></p> <p><span>These advantages make off-season cruising an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers seeking a more relaxed and personalized experience. However, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks such as limited availability and reduced entertainment options during non-peak times.</span></p>

Cruise Off-Season.

Cruising off-season offers several benefits, including lower prices, less crowding, enhanced service, a more comprehensive selection of cabins, unique itineraries, and potentially milder weather and scenic beauty.

These advantages make off-season cruising an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers seeking a more relaxed and personalized experience. However, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks such as limited availability and reduced entertainment options during non-peak times.

<p><span>Cruises during school holidays and significant events tend to be more expensive too. Cruises airlines also bump up the airfare at Half Term or Spring Break, so avoid these times if possible. Plan your cruise during non-peak times, such as in February, March or January, to take advantage of lower prices. Likewise, Hurricane season in September can be a cheaper time to book as long as it’s not near Thanksgiving.</span></p>

Cruises during school holidays and significant events tend to be more expensive too. Cruises airlines also bump up the airfare at Half Term or Spring Break, so avoid these times if possible. Plan your cruise during non-peak times, such as in February, March or January, to take advantage of lower prices. Likewise, Hurricane season in September can be a cheaper time to book as long as it’s not near Thanksgiving.

<p><span>"Save money on groceries" advice isn't one-size-fits-all. For example, not everyone lives near a warehouse store like Costco (and some people can't afford the annual fee anyway). Apartment dwellers can't grow gardens, and folks without vehicles can't visit you-pick farms. And so on.</span></p> <p><span>Fortunately, plenty of other ways exist to keep food prices as low as possible. Use some (or all!) of the following hacks to eat well without breaking the budget.</span></p>

Look for Last-Minute Cruise Deals

Booking a last-minute deal can be a great way to save money on your cruise vacation. Cruise lines often give out last-minute deals to fill some not-so-popular cruises. This is a good option if you are not fussy about your departure port or where you are sailing.

Finding last-minute cruise deals requires some proactive searching and flexibility. Start by checking cruise line websites for dedicated sections or deals. Sign up for newsletters and email alerts from cruise lines and travel agencies to stay informed. Check media platforms and travel deal apps to receive notifications about time-limited promotions.

<p><span>Reach out to travel agents specializing in cruises, as they may have access to exclusive last-minute offers. Being flexible with travel dates and destinations can increase your chances of finding a deal. Keep an eye on online travel websites that feature last-minute cruise deals. Consider repositioning cruises for unique itineraries and lower prices. Book quickly and ensure your travel documents are in order when the time is right. While last-minute deals offer significant savings, be aware of limited availability and potential additional expenses.</span></p> <p><span>For year-round deals, check some popular cruise websites, such as Norwegian cruise line or Princess Cruises, or ask your local travel agent.</span></p>

Special Agents

Reach out to travel agents specializing in cruises, as they may have access to exclusive last-minute offers. Being flexible with travel dates and destinations can increase your chances of finding a deal. Keep an eye on online travel websites that feature last-minute cruise deals. Consider repositioning cruises for unique itineraries and lower prices. Book quickly and ensure your travel documents are in order when the time is right. While last-minute deals offer significant savings, be aware of limited availability and potential additional expenses.

For year-round deals, check some popular cruise websites, such as Norwegian cruise line or Princess Cruises, or ask your local travel agent.

Join A Cruise Loyalty Programme

A cruise loyalty program is a rewards program that cruise lines offer to encourage repeat business and customer loyalty. Joining a cruise loyalty program allows you to earn points or benefits based on your cruise history with that particular cruise line. These benefits can include discounts on future cruises, onboard credits, cabin upgrades, priority boarding, and other perks.

Enroll Online

Once enrolled, you’ll earn points for each cruise with the participating cruise line. The points you earn are based on the number of nights you sail, the cabin category you book, and your onboard spending. Some cruise lines offer additional ways to earn points, such as referring friends or booking specific promotions. The higher your loyalty status, the more benefits you can enjoy. Some cruise lines participating in Cruise loyalty programmes are MSC and Royal Caribbean Cruises.

<p><span>There are many ways to save using a Credit Card. Many offer air miles points; these contribute to flying to and from your cruise line. Also, many cruise lines have their credit card programme where points amount to cruise fare discounts and onboard credit. </span></p> <p><span>Also, look for Credit cards that offer complimentary lounge access at airports, making travelling much more comfortable. </span></p>

Use A Credit Card That Offers Bonuses

There are many ways to save using a Credit Card. Many offer air miles points; these contribute to flying to and from your cruise line. Also, many cruise lines have their credit card programme where points amount to cruise fare discounts and onboard credit.

Also, look for Credit cards that offer complimentary lounge access at airports, making travelling much more comfortable.

<p>One user mentions that in the movie Spanglish, someone says, "Maybe your low self-esteem is just common sense." Although that one may be a bit more on the nose, I bet the person who hears this one would take a second before realizing they're being insulted.</p>

Choose an Older Ship.

Older cruise ships are often cheaper due to lower operating costs, fewer amenities and facilities, less demand, market perception, and itinerary restrictions. The reduced size of these ships leads to lower expenses, which can be passed on to passengers through lower fares.

<p><span>They may have fewer amenities and be perceived as less luxurious than newer ships, resulting in lower demand and pricing. Their limitations in accessing specific itineraries and ports can further contribute to lower prices. Despite these factors, </span><span>smaller, older cruise ships</span><span> can still provide an enjoyable experience, especially for those seeking a more intimate and unique voyage.</span></p>

Budget Cruise

They may have fewer amenities and be perceived as less luxurious than newer ships, resulting in lower demand and pricing. Their limitations in accessing specific itineraries and ports can further contribute to lower prices. Despite these factors, smaller, older cruise ships can still provide an enjoyable experience, especially for those seeking a more intimate and unique voyage.

<p>“Next time turn to your wife and say,” one user suggested. “Honey I’m concerned that you might be hard of hearing. Our son was quite clear on what he needed. Shall I book you an appointment with an audiologist?”</p>

Consider Repositioning Cruises

Repositioning cruises occur when ships are moving between different regions or seasonal routes. These cruises can offer significant savings and cruise deals compared to traditional itineraries, as they may have more days at sea and fewer port stops. These are released a season or two early, so look out for them.

<p><span>Balcony </span><a href="https://cruisingkids.co.uk/what-is-a-stateroom-on-a-cruise-ship-ultimate-guide/" rel="noopener"><span>cabins and suites</span></a><span> can be expensive to purchase. An Interior cabin is the least costly on a cruise ship. An interior stateroom will not have a window, but they have all the same amenities as another cabin, such as a bed, a bathroom, and a TV. Check the price differences before you book.</span></p>

Stay in an Inside Cabin for Cheap Cruise Deals

Balcony cabins and suites can be expensive to purchase. An Interior cabin is the least costly on a cruise ship. An interior stateroom will not have a window, but they have all the same amenities as another cabin, such as a bed, a bathroom, and a TV. Check the price differences before you book.

<p><span>The main dining room is included in your cruise fare and offers various food options. You can eat in a specialty dining restaurant, which will cost extra. Also, after exploring a port of call in the morning, hop back on board for lunch to save yourself money. Some countries are more expensive, so grab lunch in the buffet or dining room. You can always get back off the ship in the afternoon too.</span></p>

Eat in the Main Dining Room.

The main dining room is included in your cruise fare and offers various food options. You can eat in a specialty dining restaurant, which will cost extra. Also, after exploring a port of call in the morning, hop back on board for lunch to save yourself money. Some countries are more expensive, so grab lunch in the buffet or dining room. You can always get back off the ship in the afternoon too.

<p><span>Drinking on a ship can be expensive, so purchasing a drinks package can be a worthwhile investment if you like to drink a lot on your cruise vacation. Tot up how much you think you will consume on your cruise by researching the menus and determining if a </span><a href="https://cruisingkids.co.uk/royal-caribbeans-latest-drinks-package-guide-and-drink-menus/" rel="noopener"><span>drinks package</span></a><span> will be cheaper. </span></p> <p><span>Bring your non-alcoholic drinks onboard, such as water, soda, and juice. You can also bring your alcoholic beverages, but there are restrictions on the amount of alcohol you can carry on.</span></p>

Be Savvy with your Drinks

Drinking on a ship can be expensive, so purchasing a drinks package can be a worthwhile investment if you like to drink a lot on your cruise vacation. Tot up how much you think you will consume on your cruise by researching the menus and determining if a drinks package will be cheaper.

Bring your non-alcoholic drinks onboard, such as water, soda, and juice. You can also bring your alcoholic beverages, but there are restrictions on the amount of alcohol you can carry on.

<p><span>Many activities are included in your cruise fare, such as swimming, sunbathing, and using the fitness centre. You can also participate in some activities that cost extra, such as spa treatments and casino games.</span></p> <p><span>Check your daily planner for everything your cruise ship offers, from quizzes and parties to zip-lining and Escape rooms.</span></p>

Do the Free Activities Included in Your Cruise Fare.

Many activities are included in your cruise fare, such as swimming, sunbathing, and using the fitness centre. You can also participate in some activities that cost extra, such as spa treatments and casino games.

Check your daily planner for everything your cruise ship offers, from quizzes and parties to zip-lining and Escape rooms.

If you want to balance your budget, start by looking for ways to save money on groceries. You probably can't negotiate your rent/mortgage or car ...

Research Your Port Excursions

You can save money on shore excursions by shopping around. Many different companies offer tours and don’t charge the same price.

You can research each port before you go and determine whether you can go into town and explore by yourself. Some ships also charge for a port shuttle bus. Can you walk out of the port? Is it far? Many websites have information on ports of call with free things to do in and around the cities and towns.

<p><span>You can easily cruise more affordably; it’s all about looking for deals and offers and sticking to your budget. Cabin categories significantly impact your cruise’s total price, as does looking for deals on flights and drinks packages. You can get some cheap cruise deals with a bit of research.</span></p>

In Conclusion

You can easily cruise more affordably; it’s all about looking for deals and offers and sticking to your budget. Cabin categories significantly impact your cruise’s total price, as does looking for deals on flights and drinks packages. You can get some cheap cruise deals with a bit of research.

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India Cruises: Cruises in & From India

Cruise packages from india.

Cruise in India - Browse through a wide range of Cruise Trip from India with exciting offers at Thrillophilia. Book Cruises from India packages with exciting deals & offers.

Cruises in India offer a dream come true holiday experience to the travellers through their curated travel packages on the azure blue ocean waters. The popular cruise liners are known to offer luxury no less than haven to tourists through their long list of offerings.

Talking about the cruise packages from India, you can choose to sail through the ocean waters on various routes like Mumbai-Highseas-Goa-Mumbai, Mumbai-Diu-Mumbai, Chennai-Trincomalee- Chennai, Mumbai to Venice, Mumbai to Male, Mumbai to Athens, Kolkata to Bangladesh, Mumbai to Singapore and many more. All these cruises pass along the pristine konkan coast praising its picturesque beauties and rich marine life. The cruises offering tours to these locations are Cordelia cruise liner, which is very much popular among the tourists for its luxury stays and activities, Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda Cruise, which is known for its enriching cultural performances and night transnational performances, an M.V Mahabaahu Cruise, which is known for its tribal villages and serene monasteries tours. These cruises offer some of the best amenities for a memorable stay like spa, casino, jacuzzi, even a movie theatre, Skydiving simulators and an observational pod, vertigo water slide, thrilling water coaster, and much more.

India Cruises Packages

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Newly added experiences, tourism board alliances, india cruises faqs, which are some of the best cruises in india, which are the best destinations for cruise journeys in and from india.

1. Mumbai-High Seas-Goa-Mumbai: The Mumbai-High-Seas-Goa-Mumbai adventure trip is one of the most loved routes for luxury cruises in India that travellers love to take. The cruise departs from the Mumbai port and sets its sail in the direction of Goa along the pristine Konkan Coast of India. n the course of the journey, you will be able to explore the rich coral diversity and full of life aquatic animals. Taking this cruise route, you will be able to enjoy international shows and listen to live music at a number of bars and lounges. You will surely fall in love with the arrangements made for you in the crusie. On this cruising tour, you will be offered delicious and freshly prepared meals by some of the masterchefs. You will also be offered Day and Late Night snacks on board. Cruises that operates on this route- - Cordelia Cruises: Karnika: Karnika from Cordelia cruises has it all that one would expect from a five star hotel on land. The name of the cruise means king of the ocean and it can be literally considered the king. You will come across luxury in every single thing that will provide you with an ultimate experience on board. The cruise offers wonderful accommodation for all, full of life recreational activities, delicious food, casinos to try your luck, open decks to soak in all the flavours of the ocean. - Angriya Cruise: If you wish to have an mesmerizing experience on board then you can choose to go for the famous Angriya Cruise that provides a wonderful experience on the Arabian sea with its long list of amenities and facilities. The cruise offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation, multi cuisine restaurants, wide spread open decks, swimming pools and lots more to make your experience memorable. 2. Mumbai-Diu-Mumbai: Mumbai-Diu-Mumbai is yet another wonderful cruising route that you can take from the Mumbai port along with your loved ones in one fine afternoon. Once you board, you will be offered a welcome drink. You can settle down and spend time around the Pool Deck observing the ship setting to sail in the azure blue waters of Arabian Sea. As soon as the evening approaches, the vibe on board will just turn magical as it allows you to watch one of the Broadway shows or have dinner at any of the multi cuisine restaurants offering a wide range of Indian as well as International menu. You can also choose to wander with your accompaniments and check in to the piano bar or else try your fortune at the casino or even you can head into any of the bars to have your favorite drink and then dance to the tunes of the loud music played by the DJs. Cruises that operate on this route- - Cordelia Cruise: Cordelia Cruise liner happens to be one of the most sought after cruise liners on the Arabian Sea because of its long list of offerings that are curated to offer a perfect vacationing experience along with your loved ones. The time you will be spending on board the Cordelia Cruises from India is surely going to be cherishable all through your life as the moments spent with your loved ones is just priceless in the backdrop of the alluring natural beauty of the azure blue waters of Arabian sea. The cruise has got all sorts of modern amenities like multi cuisine restaurants, bars, open decks, swimming pools, board rooms, piano bars, casinos, cafes and lots more. 3. Mumbai-High Seas-Lakshadweep: Mumbai high Seas Lakshadweep Cruises from India tour is considered to be one of the most loved experiences that tourists as well as travellers love to relish. Taking this cruise trip from India, you will be visiting some of the islands of Lakshadweep like Kavaratti, which is home to a number of heritage sites and historic landmarks. You can visit these landmarks or choose to spend time at the shore along with your loved ones. Cruises that operate on this route- - Cordelia Cruise: Boarding the Cordelia Cruise Liner, you will get to spend some time watching the Broadway show, checking into some of the bars, casinos, and piano bars along with your loved ones to enjoy in the wonderful vibe. You can also choose to take part in some of the on board activities like dance classes, deck and pool, and cooking classes from the master chefs. If you are a fitness freak, then you can also walk to the gyms to take part in some fitness lessons. If you are not at all interested in any of the things, you can just lay by the side of the pool or inside the indoor Jacuzzi to unwind yourself taking a relaxing steam and sauna bath. You will surely be able to relish international standard hospitality in the middle of awe inspiring interior decor. - Angriya Cruise: Widely famous for its luxury stays, this cruise liner on the Arabian sea takes travellers close to their dreams and presents an amazing atmosphere to enjoy the holiday vacation. The cruise is very renowned for its wellness massages and therapeutic treatments that not only re-energize your body but also your mind. 4. Chennai - Trincomalee - Chennai: You will board this cruise from Chennai and then head out to visit Trincomalee before coming back to Chennai again. The cruise trip from India will take you to Trincomalee on the second day. It happens to be a port city on the northeast coast of Srilanka. You will get a chance to marvel at some of the historic as well as iconic landmarks like the grand Koneswaram Temple stands on Swami Rock cliff, Gokarna Temple, and many others as well. You will get to see a wide range of panoramic views of the city and capture some wonderful sights of the beautiful nature. Cruises that operate on this route- - Cordelia Cruise: Boarding the Cordelia cruise trip from India, you will be offered a refreshing welcome drink which you can sip spending time around the pool deck. In the evening hours, you can choose to watch the Broadway show, have dinner at any of the restaurants, try out your luck in any of the casinos, and even choose to step out to dance to the tunes of live Djs. You can also choose to opt for taking some therapeutic massage and treatments at the wellness hub onboard the cruise to rejuvenate your body and mind. 5. Mumbai-Dubai-Mumbai: Mumbai Dubai Mumbai cruise is one of the most loved cruising tours from India that travellers love to be a part of. The cruise tour takes you through the Arabian Peninsula in the Persian Gulf where you can enjoy an amazing blend of ancient tradition and modern fascinations. Arriving at Dubai, you will be welcomed by high rise buildings, modern and impressive architectural designs, pristine coastline, and much more. The city has got anything and everything for you to enjoy to the fullest along with your loved ones. Cruise that operates on this route- - Cordelia Cruise: The Cordelia cruise package from India takes you to one of the shinny, sparkling, and modern cities in the world that is not only fast paced but also full of luxury, glamour and glitz. Visiting Dubai is surely a dream for many travellers and travelling by luxury Silversea, Celebrity Cruises are some of the other options you can look for. - Silver Spirit: Taking part in this cruising tour, you will be able to create amazing memories in the complete entertainment hub which you can cherish all through your life. Most of the travellers taking part in this cruising tour love to spend time at the cozy cafes, multi cuisine restaurants, and entertainment hubs, and chic shopping complexes. 6. Mumbai - Goa- Mangalore- Cochin-Trivandrum-Colombo-Male: This is one of the most sought after as well as the best curated cruising experience for travellers sailing from the coast of Mumbai. The overall cruising package is so well put together that you will just fall in love with the experience you will be getting. The tour combines a journey through the rich cultural heritage of India, amazing heritage sites of enchanting Sri Lanka, and stunning natural beauty of Maldives. Embarking on this luxury cruising experience, you will be able to explore the famous Elephanta Island and also take a complete city tour of Mumbai. Cruises that operate on these route- - Cordelia Cruise: The Cordelia cruise packages from India will sail across the beachfront cities of India like Cochin, Mangalore, Goa, and Trivandrum before reaching Maldives and Srilanka. Visiting sri lanka, you will be able to visit some of the lush green highlands and buddhist temples. You will also get a chance to explore the beautiful islands and spend time snorkelling around the atolls and coral reefs. This is surely going to be a once in a lifetime experience where you can marvel along with your loved ones in the middle of the best of nature. - Costa Cruise Lines: Costa cruise lines can be considered as a ship where elegance reigns supreme. The ship is designed by architect and designer Pierluigi Cerri with a motive to welcome guests in a mood that is relaxed and at the same time sophisticated. The ship combines amazing symmetrical forms with spectacular construction work and understated furnishings. If you wish to seduced the by Arabian sea, then there is no better option to board from Mumbai to Male via Colombo. 7. Chennai - Trincomalee-Colombo-Kochi-Goa-Mumbai: Taking these cruise packages from India to two fascinating countries will surely be grand as you would be able to spend time amid loads of different people. The tour offers you an optional excursion to places like Saint Thomas Cathedral, impressive kapaleeshwarar temple before boarding the Cruises in India. You can head out to visit Sanctums, forts, various archaeological sites of Mahabalipuram in the course of the heritage tour. In the course of your stay at Trincomalee, you can discover the city, visit Koneswaram temple, and stroll in the local market. When you reach Colombo, you can marvel at a number of heritage sites and enjoy the panoramic views of the cities. You will surely be impressed by the age-old architectural designs of the cityscape. Cruises that operate on this route- - Cordelia Cruise: The Cordelia Cruise Liner tour and Costa Cruise India will take you close to a number of historic as well as heritage sites, discover various trading posts of Tamil Nadu, backwaters of Kerala, party capital of Goa and vibrant city of Mumbai. The cruise offers excellent stays in the super comfortable as well as cozy cabins that offer wonderful views of the azure blue ocean waters.

Which are the luxury cruises in India?

1. Cordelia luxury cruise liner: Cordelia cruise liners are premium cruises that offer a world class experience to the visitors. This luxury cruise is equipped with all sorts of modern amenities to make sure that you have a comfortable as well as memorable stay. Route: Mumbai to Goa, Mumbai-Diu-Mumbai, Mumbai-High Seas-Mumbai, Mumbai-High Seas-Lakshadweep (Kadmat)-Goa-Mumbai, Chennai - High Seas - Chennai, Chennai Trincomalee-Chennai, Mumbai-High Seas-Mormugao (Goa)-Mumbai, Chennai-High Seas-Galle-Trincomalee-Chennai. 2. Angriya Cruise Liner: Boarding the Angriya cruise, you will literally say hello to some of the magical days. This luxury cruise liner has it all starting from well curated accommodation, restaurants, bars, open decks, and loads of fun filled activities to keep you busy and indulged. The route through which the cruise sails on the Arabian Sea lets you explore the rich coral diversity as well as lets you enjoy some of the pristine views of the azure blue ocean waters. Routes: Mumbai to Goa. 3. Sunderbans Luxury Cruise: Sunderbans luxury cruise is one of the royal cruises that takes you close to the world’s largest royal bengal tiger reserve and a UNESCO world heritage site. Taking this cruise, you will be sailing through the mangrove ecosystems and also visiting some of the nearby local villages where you can watch enriching folk performances by the locals. Route: Kolkata to Sundarban. 4. The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda Cruise: The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda Cruise in India will take through the longest water stretch in Kerala passing through the Vembanad Lake and the pristine waters of Alleppey. Taking part in this cruise tour, you will be able to enjoy enriching performances in the course of the luxury onboard journey. In the course of the trip, you will be served delicious cuisines prepared by some of the acclaimed master chefs of the nation. Route: Vembanad Lake to Alleppey. 5. River Ganges Heritage Cruise: River Ganges Heritage cruise happens to be one of the best Cruises in India that offers excellent views of the religious pilgrimage sites and surrounding lush greenery all around. This luxury Cruise in India has got about 32 spacious rooms and a spacious terrace dining area which can accommodate about 80 guests on board. The luxury cruise has also got a live kitchen that offers a wide range of Indian as well as international cuisines. Taking this cruise tour, you will be able to pass through a number of top sightseeing places. Route: Kolkata - Murshidabad. 6. M.V Mahabaahu Cruise: The M.V. Mahabaahu cruise starts from Kolkata to north eastern states like Assam and Tezpur passing through a number of tribal villages, serene monasteries, ancient destinations and tea plantations. The Cruise in India offers all sorts of modern amenities for the guests on board starting from a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and a health spa. Sailing on this cruise, you will be able to attend cooking sessions, watch cultural performances, and many wild animals species. Route: Kolkata to Assam.

Which luxury cruise sets sail from India?

1. Jalesh cruise liner: Jalesh cruise liner is one of the most sought after luxury cruises that sets its sail from the business capital of India to a number of foreign locations like Dubai, Maldives, and many more. The cruise offers curated accommodation and loads of activities to take part. Route: Mumbai to Goa, Maldives, Dubai. 2. Samudram Lakshadweep Cruise: Samudram Lakshadweep Cruise takes guests through an adventurous trip down to the islands of Lakhadweep exploring serene views of the sea, white sandy beaches, and enchanting aquatic life. This happens to be a five day cruise through Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy Islands. In the course of this Cruises in India tour, you can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, turtle walking, coral reef walking, scuba diving, and bird watching. Route: Kochi to Lakshadweep atoll and back. 3. Costa Neo Classica Cruise: Costa NeoClassica happens to be a luxury cruise that has got a lot to offer to the travellers. The cruise sets its sail from the coast of Mumbai and heads in the direction of Maldives. The cruise has about 654 cabins and out of which there are 428 cabins which offer lovely sea views. All the cabins are equipped with a private balcony. Apart from all the luxury fixtures, the cruise offers wellness centre, gym, jacuzzis, ballroom, shopping malls, swimming pool, and library. Route: Mumbai to Maldives. 4. Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity cruises are yet another popular cruise operator that operate luxury cruises from India to various International locations. All the cruises are adorned with all sorts of modern and state of the art facilities to make sure that you don’t find anything incomplete. Route: Mumbai to Dubai.

Which are the famous cruise vacations in India?

1. The Golden Triangle Cruise: The Golden Triangle Cruise is one of the most loved 12 night cruise tours in India that no one should miss out on. The trip would start the capital Delhi and end at Kolkata travelling along a number of heritage sites into the sacred Ganges. You will be provided accommodation by Oberoi Hotels at New Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. This is surely going to be once in a lifetime experience in India that you will just fall in love with. 2. Andaman Islands Glass Bottom Cruise: Andaman Islands Glass Bottom Cruise is surely going to be a haven for all the beach lovers and divers. The cruise is surely one of the best things that you should not miss out on any occasion. The Andaman Islands Glass Bottom Cruise tour lets you sail on the boats to offer spectacular views of the exquisite colorful corals. You will get to visit the famous Jolly Buoy and Neil Islands where you can pamper along with your loved ones. 3. Chilika Lake Cruise: Chilika lake cruise is considered one of the most loved picturesque destinations for a soothing cruise vacation in India. It is about 60 km from Puri and is a very popular destination for bird lovers and nature lovers. Taking part in this cruise you will be able to glide through the azure blue waters to sight some of the migratory birds like falcons, spot billed pelicans, herons and many others. You will also stop over at Rajahamsa beach where you can spot dolphins. 4. Kochi Cruise: Kochi Cruise lets you sail along the glinting waves of the sea heading out in the direction of Kochi. It happens to be one of the loved popular beach cruise destinations in India because of its alluring natural surroundings. Taking this cruise tour, you will be able to relish a wide range of Indian as well as International dishes prepared by some of the master chefs. It is just perfect for anyone who loves to spend time in relaxation overlooking the beautiful views all around. 5. Goa Cruise: Goa is considered to be the party capital of India and cruising on the waters will offer you a plethora of choices when it comes to cruises in Goa. With a wide range of activities to take part like cultural entertainment, beer, and buffet cruise you will get a chance to enjoy the scenic views of the luminous waters. 6. Dibru Saikhowa River Cruise: Dibru Saikhowa River has been a bustling home to the rare and endemic species of nature. You will get a chance to sight white winged wood duck, slow loris, and bright colored horses. This destination is a picture perfect place for nature lovers who would love to marvel along with their loved ones.

Which are the affordable cruise trips to take in and from India?

1. Costa Neo Classica Cruise: Costa Neo Classica Cruise offers you a truly luxurious experience at sea in its 654 cabins, 10 luxury suites, and 400 cabins with sweeping views of the sea. The suites have got private balconies to offer you the smell of salty and saline water. The cruise has got a wellness hub, gym, four jacuzzis, ballroom, shops, and swimming pools. 2. The Vivada Cruise M.V. Paramhamsa: Vivada Cruise MV Paramhamsa offers you close encounters with alluring mangrove ecosystems and is a must do adventure trip for tiger sightings. The cruise takes the guests through the tree lined delta as well as offers stopovers in between to take part in some safaris in the Sunderban Tiger Reserve. 3. Angriya Voyage of Wows: Angriya Voyage of Wows takes you close to the vast coastline, royal onboard experiences, and coral diversity. The cruise has its own sustainable and green practices to maintain an ecological balance at sea. The cruise has got luxurious and spacious family rooms as well as pod accommodation. Tourists love to spend time in the wellness spas, exploring culinary options, huge infinity pool, and dance floor. 4. Sawfish Luxury Cruise: Taking a cruise trip through Sawfish Luxury Cruise, you will be able to experience a luxurious lifestyle travelling through the backwaters of Kerala. This cruise offers a beautiful lounge area, rooftop viewing deck, intimate dining deck, and ample open space to soak in beautiful sights. You will also be able to take short trips to Valiya Kadamakudy, Moolampilly, Pizhala, Kothad, and Kandanad.

What are the passport and visa requirements for cruise in India?

Yes, you would need to carry valid passports and the required visa for taking part in cruises that take you to some other countries. You can easily apply for a tourists visa and get it without any hustle and bustle before the trip.

What are the different types of accommodation available on board?

On board a cruise you will get a number of accommodation facilities starting from economical dormitories to luxury suites with all bells and whistles for a comfortable stay. Most of the cruise liners have got special designed private rooms that offer brilliant views of the ocean.

What can you not do on a cruise?

Here are certain things that you should not do on a cruise: - Throw anything overboard. - Avoid talking about being sick to fellow passengers. - Be afraid of days at sea. - Don't sign up for excursion in the first go. - Don’t wait to sign up for spa treatments till the last day of your trip. - Neglect the crew. - Go too hard on the alcohol. - Take packing lightly. - Underestimate the power of the buffet.

Which is the cheapest cruise line in India?

1. Brahmaputra River Cruise: Cruising on the Brahmaputra river is one of the most incredible journeys that lets you discover the enchanting countryside, marvelous bird life. Dolphin spots, rural villages and mesmerizing views of the riverside. 2. Sunderbans Boat Cruise: Sunderbans cruise takes you through the thick mangrove forests and winding rivers in the largest delta of the world. You will get a chance to sight spectacular views of the breathtaking beauty of the tiger reserve. 3. Kerala Backwater Cruise: The backwater cruise of Kerala happens to be a popular cruising destination in India that lets travellers sail across the traditional rice cultivation, authentic south indian cuisine and spend some time around the picturesque riversides. 4. Ganges River Cruise: Taking a cruise on the Ganges in between Kolkata and Farakka will just be amazing as you will be able to go back in time to explore the historically scenic splendour. You will come across various monuments, villages, and townships where you can sight the cultural and historical spell of India.

Is food included on cruises?

Yes, food is included on the cruises tour in India. Taking a cruise in India, you will be able to enjoy the closest experiences of the sea spending time with your loved ones at the dining room enjoying buffet and casual eastery. If you are travelling on board the jalesh cruise, you should make sure that you relish the fine dining option with your loved ones. Various seafood dishes as well as international recipes are prepared by master chefs that are not only tasty but also appealing.

How much does a cruise ship cost in India?

The cruise ship tour packages in India would cost you around INR 15000 to INR 35000 per person. This package includes your accommodation in the ship as well as the menu options. The cost of cruises mainly depends on the destination and type of accommodation options you choose.

Will I get internet access on board?

No, you will be able to access the internet on board the cruise ships. It is at all times suggested to complete all the important online tasks before boarding the cruise ships as you might have internet connectivity issues. The King of the sea, Jalesh cruise has got no internet connectivity on board.

What are the smoking policies onboard?

All the cruise ships have certain smoking policies that are meant to be followed by the traveller. There are designated smoking zones in the outdoor area, nightclubs, cigar lounges, casinos, and cabin balconies. Apart from all these areas, the rest of the ship is strictly a non-smoking zone.

What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise tour in India?

The cheapest month to go on a cruise would be in the rainy season when there are hurricanes and storms in the ocean. You will be able to get bag loads of discounts on the booking prices as well as get access to considerable activities on board the cruise. But these months the sea is harsh and you might feel some disturbances.

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The one thing cruise ship passengers do that drives crew mad

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Cruise ships have their own set of rules , and a holiday at sea isn’t like your average getaway.

Lucy Southerton, 28, from Birmingham , has been working on cruise liners for the past nine years, meaning she knows all the tips and tricks to get the most from your time aboard .

On her YouTube channel, Cruising as Crew , she shares her knowledge to ensure first-time passengers avoid common pitfalls – and the mistake cruise newbies make most can end up ruining your break.

According to Lucy, ‘treating a cruise like an all-inclusive holiday’ is the main faux pas she notices at work.

She said: ‘If some people have solely done all-inclusive holidays, they make the mistake of thinking a cruise vacation is very similar to that.

‘So a lot of people do not budget for extra expenses while they are on board because they have the misconception that most things will be free.’

The crew member says that although things like buffet meals will be included in the price of your trip, dining at certain restaurants on board or going on excursions often costs extra.

Forgetting to factor this into a budget can ‘really ruin people’s vacation’, Lucy says, as they have to miss out on things they perhaps looked forward to.

Gratuities are a big deal on a cruise too, so it’s recommended to set aside some cash to tip staff at the end of your holiday.

She said: ‘With a lot of cruises, you get hit with the gratuity bill at the end, which I have also seen a lot of people not budget for.’

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Alongside this, Lucy claims first-time ‘cruisers’ can struggle with the tight timings ships have to adhere to and miss their departure after a stop.

She said: ‘They get off at the port, go off and explore by themselves, which is part of the fun – but what they don’t allow for is time to get back. It obviously makes things very difficult for the cruise line and it is just an all-around mess.

‘So, when you’re on a cruise, it is very different from a hotel that is going to stay stationary. You absolutely have to make it a priority to get back to the ship on time and ask crew members what the traffic is like at each port if you’re getting a taxi to a certain destination.’

Her next warning is around travel insurance, which is particularly vital to get at the time of booking because cruises can get cancelled or flights to your starting destination can be delayed.

Lucy said: ‘Unlike a land holiday, where if your flight is eight hours late and the hotel stays where it is, the cruise ship moves so if your flight is eight hours delayed that’s going to mean you’ll miss it.

‘You absolutely have to get travel insurance as soon as you book the cruise.’

Overbooking excursions is another no-no, so try to balance ‘some exciting days but some relaxing days’ when planning out your itinerary to avoid ending up exhausted.

Lucy also advises pre-booking activities or excursions rather than leaving it to the last minute, ensuring you pack essentials (including medication), researching ports ahead of time, and listening carefully to safety briefings so you’re prepared for emergencies.

And, last but not least, she urges first-timers to always consider where their cabin is – particularly if they might be prone to seasickness.

She says: ‘You want to be in the centre of the ship. You don’t want to be in the back, you definitely don’t want to be in the front, because that’s where you’re going to feel the movement the most.

‘So when you book a cabin, make sure it is in the centre of the ship, and make sure the cabin you book is surrounded by other cabins.’

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Lucy adds: ‘The cheaper cabins will have a restaurant or a gym above them and it’s going to be noisy, so cabin location is really important.’

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Lucy shares tips on her YouTube channel (Picture: YouTube/Cruising As Crew) Cruise ships have their own set of rules, and a holiday at sea isn't like your average getaway. Lucy Southerton, 28 ...
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The Best Small Ship Cruise Lines for British Isles Cruises. Cruise News. Live From Majestic Princess: Cruising Queensland Post-Cyclones. Eastern Mediterranean Cruises vs. Western Mediterranean ...