Money Saving Advice from Seasoned Cruisers
Those who’ve cruised even once will quickly notice cruise lines try to get you to spend more money once onboard. A little secret is it’s one of the ways they keep their fares down. With low fares and fierce competition between the brands, they find ways to make extra money once you’re onboard or even before you sail.
How much you may wonder? The average sailor spends an extra 30% on add ons and onboard spending. Many brands have significantly increased the costs of their drink packages, Wi-Fi and specialty dining. The list goes on and on.
If you’re new to cruising and/or you like finding those nuggets of how to save money and get onboard freebies, then keep reading friends as I have tips from us experienced cruisers to help you get even more enjoyment out of your first or next cruise vacation.
Understand Your Perks and Purchased Extras
If you’ve purchased extras, such as a drink or dining package, Gabe says, “understand all the extras you have purchased or received and be sure you take advantage of them.”
For those who have status, often there is a list of included/complimentary amenities in your cabin. If not, visit the service desk to find out what they are. Some people have included amenities they don’t even realize they have, such as included beverages in their cabin mini fridge and afternoon canapés.
Saving Money on Your Next Cruise
If you plan on cruising with the same brand again, often the best discounts, for a future cruise, are given while onboard. Cruise lines want you to continue vacationing with them and will incentivize you with discounts on a future cruise. Your next cruise reservation can be linked to your travel advisor so they can continue helping you have epic vacations.
Matching Status Across Brands
If you’ve cruised with the same brand many times, you may have earned high status with them which equates to extra perks while onboard. After a while, you may want to try a different cruise line, but not want to give up your status. Some cruise lines will allow you to transfer your status to them to continue getting your amenities such as priority boarding, free laundry, etc. It’s not a guarantee but it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Onboard Freebies
Almost daily cruise lines will host various events and offer free drinks and giveaways for attending. Art auctions, spa & jewelry raffles are common types of events. By attending you’ll usually be offered at least one free drink. Raffles vary from discounts in stores to free spa services.
Hanna says, “sit front row at those free event giveaways AND volunteer when they ask for someone to!”
Another often missed opportunity for freebies are port shopping talks. If you plan on buying souvenirs at port, these talks may be worth attending as they often hand out lots of discounted coupons.
Cocktail Parties & Captain Invites
If you’re invited to a party (returning guests often are), like onboard freebies there’s often free drinks and appetizers offered. Depending on the event there may be more giveaways such as free bottles of wine or champagne.
Seasoned cruisers anticipate the cruise ship experience and the joy of exploring new destinations. By comprehending your perks, seizing discounts for future adventures, and keeping an eye out for those delightful onboard freebies, you're not just cruising; you're mastering the art of savvy cruising. So, whether it's your first voyage or your 10th, may these tips elevate your cruise experience and ensure smooth sailing ahead.
Thank you to my loyal cruise clients for writing in and sharing your top tips. Even if they didn’t make this list, know they have been added to other blogs as I’m continually updating my content to keep travel tips fresh for sailors.
If you’d like to continue learning, here are a few more cruise blogs worth checking out:
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