Trifter

A week from today I will be on the road heading to the Port of New Orleans to take our yearly cruise.  Our one vacation away from the kids and meant for my wife and I to be able to relax and enjoy each other’s company.  Onboard is daily and nightly entertainment, endless eateries including buffets and room service, as well as tropical drinks and an ocean view.  You would think it would cost a fortune, but this year actually will be our cheapest yet.

Here’s a few tips to help you be able to enjoy your cruise without breaking the bank:

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1.   Book Early or Late –  We booked our September cruise all the way back in February.  In exchange for the long months agonizing and daydreaming of our vacation we received a very friendly rate.  Five days for two people in one cabin for less than $600 total.  Booking well ahead of time can lock you in on good rates and working with a travel agent can give you time to make payments on the rest of the trip.  On the other hand, if you are easily able to clear your schedule and make last minute plans, many cruises are known to go for cheap as they try to fill up the boat closer to sailing and allowing you a last-minute getaway.
2. Cruise in the Off-Season-  The middle of the summer is of course the most popular time to cruise, but these boats run all year.  While you may not normally think of December and January as the time to put on your swimtrunks and explore the Caribbean, you can get a great rate and very favorable weather this time of the year!
   
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3. Take Advantage of What’s Around You.   Being on board a cruise ship, there is plenty of entertainment provided for you, and it’s usually all built into the cost of your cruise.  This includes your food and drinks (except soda and alcohol) throughout your time on the boat: yes, including room service 24 hours.  It also gives you planned activities like talent shows, comedy shows on board, musicians, and more.  All of these things would cost you extra money on any other vacation you’d take, so make the most of your time and check out everything offered to you.
4. Drink Cheap.   I mentioned that alcohol is not part of the all-inclusive cost.  Being as this is your vacation you deserve a drink by the pool, but you don’t have to fork out too much for it.  Keeping your souvenir glass and refilling it will give you a discount on your drink, and usually cruise ships will have a “drink of the day” for less than most other cocktails.  
   

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5. Get the End of Cruise Specials.  On your last day of the cruise there are a ton of great deals to be had.  The gift shops slash their prices, and it is the perfect time to pick up souvenirs for yourself or your family back home.  Massages and other treatments at the spa are able to be had for cheap on your last day at sea.