CRUISES 4U

The first thing that probably pops into your head about cruises is “How expensive will it be?”. During this time in the economy, most people can’t afford to throw out 10 grand on a vacation. Lucky for you, must cruise lines are actually inexpensive, if you know what you’re doing.

Firstly, know the four main categories of staterooms: Inside, Ocean View, Balcony or Verandah, and Suite. Now, an inside stateroom, there’s no view. Unless you’re one of those claustrophobic people, this would be a good thing to consider, as they are the least expensive on ANY cruise line.

Next comes the Ocean Views, they provide a small window or porthole view. If the ship you’re on includes available balconies, the ocean view can be maybe only $50-$100 more per person. If there are no balconies, except with suites, Ocean Views can be a lot more expensive.

Then, are the Balconies. They are sometimes not on ships, or only included with suites. This is where the big difference is. The difference from an ocean view to a balcony can be pretty expensive- $100-$400 dollars per person!!

Lastly,  Suites can be up to around 2,000 dollars per person, on a week long cruise- and that’s a good deal!!! There are also good budget cruise companies. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line are all pretty inexpensive, and are good for families!

Read the fine print too, because if you include government taxes, tipping, (can be $6-$15 per day per person), and how you’re planning to get to the port, things can add up! Also, you haven’t even included anything you buy at ports, aboard, or special drinks! I, personally, would check if you’re a big coffee or soft drink drinker, see if your cruise line offers a ‘Beverage Pass’ which should give you unlimited soda, tea, coffee, basically every drink but beer and wine. The prices depend on your length of the cruise.

Another thing: starting June 1, 2009, you WILL need a passport or passport card to travel by sea!!!! That’s VERY important! If you come to the take off port without the proper documents, you won’t be allowed to enter the ship, and no refunds given! =O

One last tip, if you can, try to cruise in August-November, where it’s the cheapest. But in August it’s hurricane season… Anyways, December 15 (ish) to the end of July is when the prices go way up! Follow these tips and hope you have a great cruise!