5 cruise discounts you should know about
Cruise lines put an end to heavy discounting a few years ago so rates for a specific cruise should be about the same everywhere you look. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t legitimate discounts that you can qualify for.
1. Seniors offer
There are many third party websites set up to help seniors access discount cruises offers made especially for them. Try seniorcruiseholidays.com and cruiseabout.com
2. Use bigger booking agents
Look for agencies that advertise themselves as "preferred" sellers of various cruise lines – that means, the agencies sell a high volume of those line's cruises and have good relationships with the lines, so the lines are more likely to offer them these deals, knowing they can sell them. And when you see a message to "call for low rates," definitely call.
3. Group discounts
This is again where booking through a travel agent who works for a large agency can save you money. Even if you are just booking one cabin, a travel agent can many times book you into another group they have on the same sailing getting you not only a lower cruise fare, but many times on board credit and other perks as well.
4. Repeat cruisers
When checking for rates on a cruise line’s website, always make sure you are logged into your account if you have cruised with that cruise line before. Many companies have loyalty programs, even if you don’t’ know about them.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask
Always ask about bonus inclusions when booking your cruise. Some cruise lines offer incredible incentives such as cabin upgrades, massive savings on airfares or even extra on board credit. These inclusions can turn a good value cruise into a great value cruise!
Do you have any other cruise booking tips to share with us? Let us know in the comments below.
Related links:
5 things you MUST do to avoid seasickness on a cruise
10 things you must never do in a cruise cabin
P&O’s first cruise around New Zealand