Too often we take what we have for granted.  I came across an interesting blog post by a young traveler recently.  She said her goal is to take a 7 day cruise.  I felt a twinge of guilt as I read this because I cruise more frequently than I get dental cleanings.  Here are 5 great tips to make your dream cruise possible.

Always use a travel agent when making a reservation.  Most cruise lines have a fair market booking system.  This means a travel agent pays exactly the same amount you pay.  Then what is the advantage?  Perks.  When booking through an agent you can receive prepaid gratuities, additional shipboard credit, specialty restaurant comps, and maybe even a bottle of champagne in your stateroom.  Additionally, you will receive more personalized service from a single point of sale.

Book early.  The cruise industry is booming and savvy cruisers know what they want and don’t wait for it.  (Don’t believe me?  Check out the buffet line.)  It’s frustrating when you find the exact right itinerary on the exact ship you want, only to learn the accommodations are sold out.

Prices will often come down from the time of your original booking.  Check the policy with your agent in advance.  If the price lowers, you can usually re-book at no charge prior to final payment.  And check the higher level accommodations as well, it could be a no-cost upgrade.

Know your accommodation.  This is another great place to utilize your travel agent.  Some cruisers are perfectly okay with an interior stateroom, they feel they won’t be in their room very much and it is the single largest price saver.  Others want to open doors to a seaside balcony.  We prefer a Grand Suite or above.  Each level of accommodation comes with specific amenities.

Book your excursions early.  The catamaran with drinks and snorkeling at the turtle sanctuary?  It’s sold out.  Especially when you’re on a bigger ship, the excursions sell out well in advance of your sailing.  If there is something specific you want to do, book early. However, you do not have to book an excursion with the ship.  Research the area, find out what you want to do, and book or plan it on your own, you’ll save a ton.  You do not need your agent for this.  But be forewarned, if you choose to go on your own, research the area and culture.  There are places that simply aren’t safe to go on your own.

Avoid the buffet.  Okay, let’s be frank here, everybody and Uncle Charlie will begin their power eating competition the moment they board the ship.  Avoid the buffet for the first few hours.  Find a quiet place to sit and start soaking it all in.

For other information, like how to save more on bookings, avoiding ATM and international credit card fees, and the best itineraries, please send us a message.  We have tons of valuable information, and even more great tips, and will soon be putting them into book form… Enjoy The Journey!