As a seasoned cruiser, I’ve learned a lot of tips and tricks to make the most out of my cruise vacation. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a frequent one, it pays to know some cruise ship hacks that can save you both time and money. Here are ten of my favorite hacks:
1. Book early
If you’re planning to take a cruise vacation, book as early as possible. Cruise lines usually offer the best deals and promos to customers who book ahead of time. Additionally, booking early gives you more time to plan your trip and find the best shore excursions at each port of call.
2. Take advantage of discounts
Cruise lines offer various discounts, such as military, senior citizen, and past passenger discounts. Make sure to check if you qualify for any of these discounts and take advantage of them when booking your cruise.
3. Bring a power strip
Most cabins only have a few power outlets, which can be a problem if you have many devices to charge. Bring a power strip to enlarge your charging options and avoid arguments with your cabin mate over who gets to use the outlet.
4. Pre-book shore excursions
Shore excursions can sell out quickly, especially if they’re popular or limited in size. To avoid missing out on your preferred excursion, pre-book them before your cruise vacation.
5. Use a luggage tag holder
Printable luggage tags provided by the cruise line are often flimsy and prone to falling off. A luggage tag holder can keep your tags secure and intact throughout the entire travel process.
6. Pack smartly
When packing for your cruise vacation, pack smartly by bringing clothes that can be mixed and matched easily. Packing comfortable shoes and clothing can also save you money from having to purchase new ones onboard.
7. Save money on drinks
Cruise ships charge a premium for drinks, but you can save money by bringing your own. Most cruise lines allow you to bring one bottle of wine per adult and a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages.
8. Plan your port visits
Before arriving at each port, research the area to know what it offers and how you can get around. Knowing where to go and how to get there can save you time and money as you won’t need to hire a taxi or join expensive tours.
9. Make use of free onboard activities
Although some onboard activities come with a fee, many of them are free. Look for free activities that interest you, such as trivia games, dance classes, and fitness classes, to make the most out of your onboard experience.
10. Learn to haggle
Haggling is a common practice in port shops, especially in countries like Mexico and the Caribbean. Brush up on your bargaining skills and negotiate the price of souvenirs to get the best deals.
Cruising can be a fun and enjoyable vacation, but it can also be costly if you’re not careful. By following these hacks, you can save time and money while enjoying your cruise vacation to the fullest.
In summary, here are ten cruise ship hacks for frequent cruisers:
- Book early
- Take advantage of discounts
- Bring a power strip
- Pre-book shore excursions
- Use a luggage tag holder
- Pack smartly
- Save money on drinks
- Plan your port visits
- Make use of free onboard activities
- Learn to haggle
Remember, a successful and enjoyable cruise vacation starts with good planning and preparation. With these hacks, you can save time and money, allowing you to make the most out of your cruise vacation.