Cruise vacations are gaining momentum as a favored method of travel. In fact, more than 11 million Americans embarked on cruise vacations in 2016 alone. This surge in popularity is no coincidence.
“Cruising offers tremendous value for your money. You receive accommodation, transportation to various countries, and meals all for one reasonable price,” explains Lance Cothern, a personal finance blogger at Money Manifesto and an avid cruiser.
However, for those new to cruising, the experience can seem daunting. What exactly is included in your fare? How are meals managed? Are cabins really that small? What if you get seasick? And let’s not forget to ask, how much will drinks set you back?
Don’t worry! I consulted cruise specialists Joel Parker from Financial Freedom Community and Lance Cothern to provide you with essential insights. (Also see: 5 Best Value Cruise Lines for Families)
Choose Your Cabin Wisely
Cruise ship accommodations typically fall into several categories, ranked from highest to lowest price:
- Suites
- Veranda cabins with private balconies
- Ocean view cabins featuring windows or portholes that do not open
- Interior cabins without windows
If saving money is a priority, Parker advises against booking pricey veranda cabins unless you plan to utilize them frequently.
“On my latest cruise, we only had two days at sea, and the expensive veranda room remained unused. However, on a previous cruise, we had multiple days at sea and enjoyed the veranda daily,” he recounts.
If you’re not snagging a luxurious suite, be prepared for a smaller space compared to conventional hotel rooms. You don’t have to overpack, but it’s wise to refrain from bringing an entire collection of delicate dishware.
Moreover, cruise ships often have inventive room designs. For instance, most cabins come with two twin beds regardless of occupancy. Couples can push the beds together for a larger sleeping area. Additionally, bathrooms may include a drying line for swimsuits. (Also see: How to Secure a Free Cabin Upgrade on a Cruise)
Food Galore
Regarding dining on cruises, there is both good and bad news.
The positive side is that your cruise fare covers complimentary meals at designated restaurants and all-you-can-eat buffets, typically serving classic American fare like burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue. You can even take food back to your cabin, though you cannot take it off the ship during shore excursions.
The downside is that upscale dining options like steakhouses and Italian restaurants often come with a price tag. Additionally, the complimentary restaurants can become quite crowded around regular meal times.
To navigate this, Parker suggests, “Reserve your dining spots in advance to ensure access to the free sit-down restaurants.”
Another drawback is that alcoholic beverages and sodas usually come at an additional cost (though Disney cruises do offer free soda). Drinks on board can be pricey, but “most cruise lines allow you to bring a 12-pack of soda per person and a 750 mL bottle of wine,” advises Cothern. Be sure to check your cruise line’s policy before bringing these items.
Additionally, consider purchasing an all-you-can-drink package upon embarking. This could be a more economical choice if you plan on indulging in several drinks, but make sure to review the details carefully to confirm its value. (Also see: 6 Budget-Friendly Items to Bring on Your Next Cruise)
Get Moving with Shore Excursions
It’s easy to feel restless during the cruise after a period of relaxation. That’s where shore excursions come in. When the ship docks, passengers usually have the opportunity to disembark for various fun activities.
Many choose to book these excursions through the cruise line. However, budget-conscious travelers can often find better deals.
“Don’t automatically reserve excursions with the cruise company,” Parker recommends. “You can usually find the same experience for less by booking directly or discover superior options from different providers.” Websites such as TripAdvisor and Expedia can help you discover and book budget-friendly tours.
Keep in mind, though, that if you embark on independent excursions, you are also responsible for your return to the ship. Sometimes there might be discrepancies between the ship’s clock and local time, so sync your watch with the ship’s time and aim to return an hour or two early to avoid getting left behind.
Additionally, getting on and off the ship can be slow-going, given the volume of passengers moving through limited exits. Be sure to account for this in your schedule.
Be Ready for Seasickness
Many prospective cruisers worry about the possibility of seasickness, and it’s a valid concern. Fortunately, most cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers to ensure a more comfortable ride (they do have pools and spas on board, after all), yet you may still experience some queasiness, especially during storms or turbulent waters.
It’s a good idea to pack remedies like Dramamine, as these will be available onboard along with a full medical team. If you are particularly susceptible to motion sickness, opt for a cabin in the center of the ship on a lower deck for a steadier experience. (Also see: 16 Essential Items to Pack for Your Next Cruise)
Final Thoughts
Cruising is an excellent option for a laid-back vacation without the hassle of meticulous planning. That said, it’s not entirely free from concerns or expense. By thoroughly researching your cruise line and adhering to these helpful tips, you will be well-prepared to make the most of your inaugural cruise.
