Monthly Archives: December 2022

Cruising Tips

Cruising For Travel Values?

Leave a comment

Cruise Ship
Image by DennisTsang

Cruising For Travel Values?

For people looking for a particular travel value, taking a cruise just might be the answer.

It seems several cruise lines have beefed up their fleets and the additional ships need filling. Among purveyors in the travel industry, cruise bookings seem to be a particular value at this time. And if cruising still seems expensive, remember that it includes your travel, hotel and meals. Plus you will avoid costly add-ons like entertainment, car rentals, car insurance and parking, airport transfers and, to some extent, tipping. Cruises are all included way to travel and relax. Try a Cruise.

Cruises in the Caribbean are very popular now because of the amazing values offered on most kinds of trip including high-end luxury. With more ships in the market, greater opportunities are available to travelers. Just now, it seems that the traveler can get huge value for his or her cruising dollar. Since cruises are all-inclusive packages, for one set price you are getting the experience of a cruise and different ports, accommodations, at least three meals a day plus snacks, a range of shipboard activities, nightly entertainment, and fitness facilities. It’s hard to beat the value in that. Programs vary by ship and cruise line, so consult a travel agent or the Internet to find the best fit for your needs and budget. There are many cruise purveyors on the internet who advertise discount cruises, some up too 70 and 75%.

These unbelievable savings stem from the practice that cruises are booked far in advance and the cruise lines know months ahead of sailing which ships are under booked. Ships are not like airplanes, they are not government subsidized or bailed out of financial difficulties. They are independently own and there are few last minute bookings for people who have to travel. Cruises are a luxury item and unsold vacancies cut deeply into profits.

There is also a website that will compare similar cruises from up to 120 different offers to find the cheapest priced cruise to your intended destination. But price isn’t value and just getting a good price is not equivalent to value. How do you know if you have booked a great deal or a floating motel 6?

Of course you must research cruise lines before you book or travel. Do listen to the travel tips of friends and acquaintances but do more. Go to “chat” lines and ask what kind of experiences people have had with “abc” cruise lines. Ask what cruises people have enjoyed and what cruise lines really delivered on their promises. People love to recount their travel tales and, if you listen to enough, you will have a fair idea of which cruise line to seek out and which should be avoided at all cost.

Finally, once you have chosen a cruise see if the travel to the ship’s departure site is included. Usually these costs are included and outlined in the cruise line brochure, but when it is extra, travel to the port can rival the cost of the cruise itself. If you have chosen a cruise to the Caribbean that leaves from Miami, Florida and you live in Oregon, the travel cost to Florida can be a major addition that turns your budget cruise into a travel budget breaker.

Find your next cruise at TopCruiseFinder.com.

Cruising Tips

Cruise Trip Tips

Leave a comment

Cruise Ship
Image by quinnums

Cruise Trip Tips

Have you planned and booked your first cruise? You’re surely excited about setting off on to the open seas. Life on board a ship is like nothing else and can be intimidating for a first-timer. Here are some things to remember and tips on what to expect.

Cruise ships are like floating cities. They are large and complex with several levels and many public spaces. They include many facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, bowling alleys, restaurants and shopping facilities. Like visiting a new city, it can be easy to get lost.

To get your orientation, first study the map of the ship. Figure out where your cabin is located and mark it on the map. Make a mental note of large structures that will help you get your orientation if you get lost such as pools and restaurants. Wonder around the ship and discover the facilities that are available to the guests. This may encourage you to participate in activities that you wouldn’t normally get involved. Check out the various restaurants; there is usually a 24 hour buffet so you can fill your craving for food no matter what time of day. Locate the pubic restrooms and convenience stores.

There are several information desks so don’t worry if you get lost. In fact, crew members are very familiar with the ship so don’t be afraid to ask if you get lost. They’ll be happy to suggest activities and tell you how to find them.

Take a look at the cruise ship’s newsletter. It will be full of suggestions for activities while you’re on the ship. There are suggestions for activities for children and things to keep the adults occupied while the kids are at the pool.

Make a list of the things you’d like to see and do while you’re on the ship. If you like to see shows then make sure you plan for them. Arrive in plenty of time to get a good seat.

There will be a mandatory lifeboat drill. With all of the advanced technology on ships, the chances of abandoning ship are almost zero. Even though boat travel is very safe, make sure you pay attention.

Almost everything on the ship is included in the price of the cruise but a few things are not. One of the biggest expenses on the cruise is the alcohol. Make sure you know how much something costs before you order it. Make a budget for yourself and stick to it especially if you’re on a tight budget.

Your first cruise will no doubt be an experience that you won’t forget. Orientate yourself with the ships facilities and activities and you’re sure to have an enjoyable holiday.

Book your dream cruise at TopCruiseFinder.com.