Sunday, March 31, 2024

How to Book a Cruise for the First Time: a Comprehensive Step-by-step Guide

best way to book a cruise

On Expedia, it’s common to find bookable cruises for 70 percent off face value, with the ability to sort by price so the best cruise deals come up at the top of the list, saving you the scrolling. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports.Millions of travelers rely on Cruise Hive in the United States, Europe, Australia, and around the world. Generally speaking, the further away from your departure date that you can make a reservation the better the rate. Fall is usually a popular time to book for the coming Wave Season – January through March.

Wave Season Is the Best Time to Score Cruise Deals—Here's How - Condé Nast Traveler

Wave Season Is the Best Time to Score Cruise Deals—Here's How.

Posted: Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Bug Spray Is a Must for Anyone on a Cruise to Alaska

However, since the activities are so varied, Princess is a really good cruise line for multi-generational travel. Part of the fun of going on a cruise is the research and planning. The advantage of small ships is that they're more nimble than big ships, putting destinations like the Alaska Native village of Kake, the Wrangell Narrows and other tiny inlets within reach. An Alaska Inside Passage cruise typically lasts seven nights, embarking and returning to Seattle or Vancouver. It's one of the most popular and common itineraries for Alaska cruising.

Perfect Summer Getaways with Family

You're in luck if you're hoping to see whales on your Alaska cruise, as the majority of the cruise season coincides with whale season. Humpback whales can be found in the waters of the Gulf of Alaska and are some of the most frequently spotted, though you may also see orcas and gray whales as well. Here's everything you need to know about skiing in the Alps, including where to stay and when to visit.

The Best Time to Book a Cruise for a Good Deal - AFAR Media

The Best Time to Book a Cruise for a Good Deal.

Posted: Fri, 12 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Why You Should Take an Alaska Summer Vacation Cruise

If you want to unwind, head to Chill Island on the east side of CocoCay. Or visit the Oasis Lagoon or the Thrill Waterpark to get on the side of adventure. Preparing your house for an extended vacation can seem like a huge task, but doing a few things before you go will make your trip carefree. Embark on a thrilling journey with young explorers through breathtaking landscapes. Did you know some abbeys in England are still open for visits?

Above all, remember the age-old rule that if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Be wary of any websites advertising cruise deals that are significantly less than the same cruise priced elsewhere. There are dozens — if not hundreds — of websites that you can use to book your cruise. Frankly, not all of them look professional, so it is understandable you might question the legitimacy of a website or their deals. If the site offers a good incentive for booking through them, then know that you’ve found a good deal. If the incentive isn’t that strong or you don’t want to go through a third-party to your reservation, then booking directly through the cruise line is your best bet.

Its message boards offer ways for website visitors to ask questions and share feedback with others based on their personal experiences and opinions. The site also acts as a metasearch for cruise deals, pulling in prices from multiple cruise websites. When it comes to making vacation decisions, sometimes it’s nice to have someone there to help with the little details.

However, the disadvantages of using a travel agent include not having control over all aspects of your booking. You’ll have to communicate with your cruise specialist for questions and changes you wish to make. If you’re happy with the service and value of a specific travel agent, keep in touch and let them know what cruises you’re considering even a year or two down the line.

best way to book a cruise

While short cruises might be a getaway, longer sailings can be more of a vacation. Shorter Cruises (6 Nights or Fewer) Don’t have a lot of time or simply want to get away without breaking the bank? These trips are abundant in the Caribbean and Bahamas, ranging from three to six nights. Benefits of Older Ships (built before 2010)As a general rule of thumb, we prefer newer ships. But that’s not to say that older ships don’t have their perks.

How to Budget for a Vacation

However, airline vacation planners might not be as knowledgeable about the ins and outs of cruises as a Las Vegas hotel. A problem with the cruise line might be better handled with a dedicated travel agent. Not only can you book a cruise with the same people that you need to book your flight with, but you can earn many more frequent flier miles. We've seen cruise specials offer up to 100,000 miles depending on your selected cruise. To be accurate, these sites are just like any travel agent in that they're a third party that can book a cruise.

Marriott Bonvoy also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference. United Cruises offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference. SkyMiles Cruises also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Travel agents work with you to pick the cruise you want, and then do the footwork of getting it all reserved. They will guide you through the process if you're new to cruising, or take down what you want like a dinner order and then process it. Mary Curry is a  T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist. If you have questions, you can always call the cruise line or your travel provider to have them walk you through the process. Cruise lines can also take your reservation right over the phone. That’s not to say it will be nothing but younger passengers, but you should expect the atmosphere to be more lively compared to longer sailings.

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