Cruising On a Budget: How To Save Money On Cruises with Amanda Bauner
Learn how to save money cruising on a budget without compromising the experience, from booking at the right time to deciding where to splurge. Cruising is a popular way to travel, offering a unique experience that combines relaxation, adventure, and exploration. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned one, Amanda Bauner, host of the Me and the Magic Podcast, shares insider tips on how to save money on cruises without skimping out on the experience. Learn about the cheapest times to go on a cruise, the benefits of DIY planning versus working with a travel agent, and what aspects are worth splurging on. So, grab a pen and paper, take notes, and get ready to set sail for a lifetime of affordable and unforgettable cruise vacations!
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In this episode, we cover:
- [2:59] Ocean vs. River Cruises
- [4:50] Advice for first-time cruisers
- [6:44] Benefits of cruise loyalty programs
- [8:55] What’s included in your cruise fare
- [16:22] Role of travel agents in cruise planning
- [19:35] Best time to book a cruise
- [30:25] Tips for saving money while cruising
Why Cruise?
From different destinations to various types of ships and even experiences on the ships, there is something for everyone on a cruise. Amanda describes cruising as an all-inclusive floating resort at sea, offering the benefits of visiting multiple ports while enjoying the amenities and activities on board. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, adult-only spaces, themed cruises, Disney cruises, or educational seminars, cruises provide a wide range of options to suit your travel style and interests.
Dining Options
One of the main attractions of a cruise vacation is the variety of dining options available. Most cruises offer a base fare that includes access to buffet-style dining, casual pool food courts, spa cafes, and main dining rooms for dinner each night. Guests also have the option to dine at specialty restaurants for an additional cost.
Endless Entertainment
Cruise ships offer a plethora of entertainment options. From nightly shows and performances to live music in lounges and bars, there is always something to do in the evenings. Additionally, cruise ships offer a range of fun activities such as trivia, miniature golf, shuffleboard, fitness classes, spa treatments, and tours. For example, meet characters on a Disney cruise and participate in animation classes.
Many cruise lines have apps that outline daily activities and offerings on board. You can also join Facebook groups, watch in-depth YouTube videos, or read reviews to understand what to expect.
Types of Cruises
There are two main types of cruises: ocean cruises and river cruises. What’s the difference between a river cruise vs. ocean cruise?
Ocean cruises typically involve larger ships with various amenities, activities, and entertainment options. River cruises offer a more intimate experience with smaller boats and immersive cultural experiences.
Here’s how river cruises and ocean cruises differ:
- Boat Size: River cruises typically have smaller boats with around 100 to 250 passengers, resembling a boutique hotel. Ocean cruises have larger ships accommodating anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 passengers.
- Flexibility: Due to their smaller size, river cruises offer more flexibility in getting on and off the boat. However, river cruises may face challenges like water levels affecting the ability to pass under bridges. Ocean cruises are more equipped to handle rough seas, storms, and hurricanes.
- Destinations: River cruises often focus on specific regions like Europe, stopping at smaller ports and historic towns along rivers. Ocean cruises cover a wider range of destinations, including popular seaports and islands.
- Cost: River cruises can be more expensive due to their smaller capacity and specialized experiences. On the other hand, depending on the cruise line, ship size, and itinerary, ocean cruises may offer a range of price points, from budget to luxury.
The choice between a river cruise and an ocean cruise depends on personal preferences, desired destinations, budget, and the type of experience you want.
Choosing the right cruise line
When comparing popular cruise lines such as Disney, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Celebrity, consider their unique differences. Disney Cruise Line stands out for its exceptional entertainment, including Broadway-caliber shows and character meet-and-greets, adult-only spaces, and unique dining rotations.
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its party atmosphere and affordability, while Royal Caribbean and Norwegian offer larger ships with a wide range of onboard activities and solo traveler options. Celebrity Cruises favors upscale experiences and quality service.
Since each cruise line has its own loyalty program, dining options, entertainment offerings, and unique experiences, research and choose the one that best fits your preferences and budget.
Consider travel style and preferences
Before booking a cruise, it is important to think about what you want to get out of your cruise experience. Are you looking for a relaxing getaway where everything is planned out for you, or do you prefer a more spontaneous approach to your travels?
Do you enjoy exploring new destinations, or are you more interested in the onboard amenities and activities offered by the cruise line?
Amanda suggests asking yourself why you want to go on a cruise.
Are you interested in the cruising experience, or are you more focused on visiting a specific destination? Knowing your travel style and preferences can help you narrow your options and choose the cruise line that best suits your needs.
For example, Virgin Voyages may be the perfect choice if you are looking for an all-adult cruise.
When booking excursions and planning activities, if you prefer a more structured itinerary, book excursions in advance. For those who enjoy spontaneity, wait until you’re onboard to make plans.
8 Tips For Planning a Cruise On a Budget
Looking for how to save money on a cruise? Look no further! Amanda Bauner shares expert tips for cruising on a budget and keeping costs low while enjoying the ultimate cruise experience.
Tired of reading? Listen to this podcast episode on Spotify.
1. Consider using a travel agent
First and foremost, using a travel agent is free for travelers. This means there is no additional cost for using their services. Here’s why you should consider booking a cruise with a travel agent.
Travel agents often have access to reduced prices that may not be available to the general public, allowing you to save more money than you would on your own. Additionally, travel agents may offer perks such as onboard credits or gifts waiting in your stateroom, adding even more value to the booking experience.
One key advantage of working with a travel agent is their personalized service and expertise. Travel agents can answer all of your questions and assist with navigating the complexities of booking a cruise, including understanding cancellation policies.
Where to find a travel agent?
Amanda Bauner recommends joining Facebook groups related to the cruise line you are interested in, as travel agents often run these groups. It’s also important that the travel agent is certified and has the necessary cruise affiliations. Asking for recommendations from friends or family who have used travel agents for cruises can also be helpful.
2. Browse cruise deal websites
In addition to the benefits of using a travel agent, consider third-party cruise websites that offer competitive prices and bonuses for booking through their platform. Sites like Vacationtogo.com help compare prices and find deals. Cruisecritic.com offers honest reviews, deck plans, price trends, and the ability to book directly with onboard credit.
In addition to the face value cruise cost, be sure to factor in extra costs like airfare, hotels, drinks, specialty dinners, tips, shore excursions, and souvenirs.
3. Book early for the best rates
When is the best time to book a cruise?
Book early for the best rates and availability when planning a cruise vacation. This will secure your preferred accommodations, itinerary, and amenities at a more affordable price.
4. Book last minute
If you’re flexible about where you’re willing to go and don’t mind your cabin type, last-minute cruise deals can also save you a lot of money. The closer it gets to the sailing date, the cheaper the cruise becomes. Cruises want to set sail at full capacity. The last thing the cruise line wants to do is leave the port with an empty ship, so they tend to slash prices to fill the ship or add extra perks like cabin upgrades.
The only downside is that the cruise you’re eyeing might sell out, or there may be limited rooms available—meaning all the luxurious rooms have already been taken.
Helpful Tip: Just because you book a cruise last minute doesn’t mean you can’t start planning your vacation ahead of time. Request time off from work during the cheapest cruise months. A few weeks before your departure, book the cruise!
Lastly, many last-minute cruises waive the single supplement fee, which means savings for solo travelers. Since cabins are usually priced for double occupancy, solo travelers can have an entire cabin by paying for the price of one occupant.
5. Join cruise loyalty programs
Like airlines, cruises have robust loyalty programs offering perks like access to discounts, early bookings, and priority booking for popular excursions. By sticking to one cruise line and participating in their loyalty program, enjoy a range of exclusive benefits and stack those rewards.
6. Cruise during shoulder season
What are the cheapest months to cruise?
To save money and avoid the crowds, consider booking during shoulder seasons for certain destinations, such as Alaska (April, May, or September), Canada and New England (May), the Mediterranean (March, April, or November), Northern Europe (May and October), Australia, and New Zealand (October, November, or April).
Remember that booking during hurricane season for Caribbean cruises may be cheaper, but there is a risk of itinerary changes due to inclement weather conditions.
7. Bring Toiletries and Pack Wisely
Pack toiletries and other essentials to avoid unnecessary expenses during your cruise. Items such as toothbrushes, sunscreen, and painkillers can be marked up significantly on the ship.
8. Budget for onboard extras wisely
As we mentioned, cruising can be a fantastic way to vacation, offering many activities, entertainment, and dining options in one place. However, it’s important to budget wisely for onboard extras to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable cruise experience without overspending.
Cruises are not all-inclusive.
In fact, there was a study that showed that people tended to spend a third of the cost of the cruise once on board because they had so many devious ways to separate you from your money. And if you went to the casino or the spa, you tended to spend two-thirds of the cost of the cruise once on board. – Pauline Frommer
One of the first things to consider when budgeting for onboard extras is the cost of alcoholic beverages.
Many cruise lines offer drink packages ranging from basic to premium, with different price points depending on the types of drinks included. Assess your drinking habits and preferences to determine if a drink package is worth the investment.
Helpful Tip: Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring one bottle of wine onboard per person. While you’ll be charged a corking fee in dining rooms, you can drink for free in other areas of the ship. Always double-check cruise rules and drink responsibly.
Additionally, some cruise lines allow passengers to bring their alcohol on board, so keep that in mind.
The same goes for WI-FI packages. If you’re hoping to unplug, skip this expense altogether.
Specialty dining is another aspect of cruising that can add to the trip’s overall cost. While most cruise ships offer a variety of dining options included in the price of the cruise, specialty restaurants often charge an additional fee. Foodies may find it worthwhile to splurge on specialty dining experiences and wine tastings, but it’s important to factor this cost into your budget ahead of time.
Spa treatments and other onboard activities can also contribute to the overall cost of the cruise. While indulging in a massage or facial can be tempting, these services often have a hefty price tag. Budget-conscious travelers may consider purchasing a day pass to the spa’s amenities instead, which can provide a more affordable way to relax and unwind.
Lastly, have some extra cash for gratuities and any unexpected expenses that may arise during the trip.
Read Next: Debt-Free Vacation Planning: 10 Ways To Vacation Without Going Into Debt
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In conclusion, research is key when planning a cruise vacation. When researching cruise options, consider cruise lines, destinations, and onboard amenities and activities to maximize your experience. And with that, where are you headed next?
Connect with Amanda Bauner
Amanda Bauner is an expert in solo travel, cruising, and Disney vacations and cruises. As the host of Me and the Magic Podcast, she is dedicated to inspiring others to travel solo while experiencing the magic the world has to offer. With over 15 years of cruising experience, Amanda is a trusted resource for anyone looking to get the most out of their cruise vacation.
Follow Amanda Bauner on Instagram: @meandthemagic
Listen to these episodes next
Creating a Pre-Trip Financial Checklist – Episode 108
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Danielle Desir Corbett is an award-winning and 6x grant-funded travel writer and podcast host who went from financial struggle to visiting 27+ countries all without waiting until retirement. Her story is proof that budget doesn’t limit adventure. Tune into The Thought Card Podcast for practical strategies to travel smarter and live on your terms. Say hello: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.
WE GIVE OUT LOANS!!💵………