Secrets of budget cruises: How to save money when booking your next trip

You may have refused to go on a cruise due to its cost. According to CruiseBooking.com, the average cost of a seven-day Caribbean cruise ranges from $400 to $4,000, and this does not even take into account the premium fares usually charged by popular cruise travel companies.

Imagine that you can go on a sea voyage without overpaying by simply choosing the off-season. This can bring significant economic benefits and allow you to enjoy a unique trip. Gobankingrates.com explains how to plan your trip without sacrificing your wallet.

1. Why you should choose the off-season

During the off-season, you can often find more favourable cruise fares as demand for them usually decreases at this time and cruise companies are trying to attract more customers.

Cruise experts, such as Colleen McDaniel of Cruise Critic, note a significant reduction in the cost of cruise tickets during the off-season. For example, in the Caribbean, the average price for a five-day cruise in September, which is the off-season in this region, is $382 lower per guest than in June when the peak tourist season begins.

2. Book directly

Where you book your tickets can have a significant impact on the final cost of your trip, especially during the off-season.

Keri Baugh, owner of Bon Voyage With Kids, advises travellers to look for discounts on cruise tickets through resources like Costco or Undercover Tourist, which can offer great deals on various cruise lines, including Disney. She emphasizes the importance of using reputable sites to book discount cruises to ensure that you are getting the full value for your payment.

3. What about gift cards?

Did you know that some major cruise lines offer gift cards? And surprisingly, you can even get discounts when you buy these cards to save even more.

As Baugh advises, consider buying gift cards from stores like Costco or Target for Disney, as well as some cruise lines like Carnival. You can use these cards to pay for your cruise, and you can get up to a 5% discount when you buy cards at some places. This can result in significant savings, especially if you purchase multiple cards.

And if shopping on your own isn't for you, you can always add gift cards to your holiday wish list.

4. Hot deals

If your goal is to find an all-inclusive package, be sure to ask the cruise line of your choice about the availability of such offers.

McDaniel notes that many cruise lines try to encourage travellers to book during the slow season by offering special packages. These offers can include such nice bonuses as an upgrade, an onboard credit, or free drink packages.

5. Timing

Travelling during the off-season may be cheaper than at other times, but flexibility is key to maximizing savings.

McDaniel notes that you can save money by choosing the most favourable dates for a cruise even in the off-season. Fares can vary significantly depending on the week and occupancy of the voyage.

For example, by booking your Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas trip a week in advance, you can save up to $222 per guest.

6. Choosing a port

Airfare can be a major expense, but choosing a port that is easily accessible to you can save you a lot of money. McDaniel suggests a strategy where travellers can avoid high airfare and hotel costs by choosing cruise ports that are accessible to them. With a variety of cruise ports across the country, from Boston to Los Angeles, it's easy for travellers to avoid additional costs and head straight to the port, bypassing airport security and inconvenience.

7. Choosing a cabin

Cruise ships offer a variety of accommodation options, which significantly affects the price: from affordable to luxurious. If your goal is to save money and you don't plan to spend a lot of time in your cabin, choose the most affordable option.

According to Baugh, a windowless cabin or a cabin without a balcony will be more affordable, although it won't provide a great view. "If you don't care about the view and plan to spend most of your time outside, a windowless cabin can save you a lot of money."

8. Book a shorter trip

Want to save even more? Consider booking a short-term cruise. According to Baugh, if you want to try a cruise but are on a tight budget, you should consider three-day or four-day cruises. "You'll still get the benefits of a cruise but over a shorter period of time."

9. Stay on the ship

Cruising in the off-season may greet you with changeable weather, but that should not stop you from enjoying your trip. The weather may not be as stable, but you can always enjoy water activities on a cruise ship.

In addition, since there may be fewer tourists on a cruise ship during the off-season, you can move freely and take comfortable seats without much fuss. There will also be fewer crowds in ports, making your trip more relaxing and comfortable.

If you're interested in vacationing in Sardinia, Italy, which offers many experiences for tourists, read the article from TravelWise.