From London to Lido: How to plan a spontaneous cruise getaway
Cruising is back in a big way and those who have been longing for the open seas and elevated comfort need not wait long to sail as a last-minute cruise deal will have them onboard a cruise ship in a jiffy.
With the rising demand of cruise travel, imagine having to travel at a whim on a cruise from the UK to the Mediterranean for the very first time and not knowing how to clinch a last-minute cruise deal for less?
Booking a spontaneous cruise getaway depends on a number of factors, including the type of experience you are looking for, the destination, duration of the trip and the time of the year you choose to sail. So take note of the advice detailed below.
Time it right
The ideal time to find a good deal with last minute offers is within three months of the sailing date as this is the window for cruisers to cancel a trip without incurring any financial penalty.
At this point all cruise lines attract customers with lucrative offers to fill up the cabins which may otherwise go empty, usually in the form of slashed fares to entice people to book.
While the market may heat up closer to sailing, this is the time you are most likely to find a bargain. However, since these deals are based on the accommodation available on a particular ship, it is advisable to shop around regardless of the overall market conditions.
You may also find affordable fares at the last minute in spring or fall when families with children in school cannot travel and typically cruise ships have more available cabins and lower pricing during these times.
Cruise line sites
If you are Internet-savvy, take time out to research the websites of individual cruise lines for discounted fares, special offers and amenities on board.
These exclusive deals could include free upgrades, airfare as well as credit points for on board spending. The level and type of perks could significantly increase depending on the stateroom you have booked.
For instance, some leading cruise lines offer unlimited open bar, shore excursion credits, complimentary WiFi and discount on rates for the second guest. With some deals, third or fourth guest staying in the same cabin even get to sail for free.
If you search on cruise deal aggregator sites, you will find last-minute cruise deals across the industry all in one place. Simply choose the month of travel, the destination and the length of the trip to land the best cruise discounts.
Take travel advice
Enlist the help of a knowledgeable and reliable travel advisor as this is the best way to get a good deal, especially since you are sailing at a momentβs notice.
Advisors who specialise in cruises often have exclusive access to discounts and perks with cruise lines which can greatly enhance the overall vacation experience and that too at a lower price.
Taking assistance of a travel advisor will also save you tons of time trying to navigate through the plethora of cruise line sites, cabin categories, port charges, pricing and much more.
Additionally, keep in mind that travel advisors have a better insight on any extra restrictions and conditions of each cruise ship.
Consider all-inclusive cruises
You may be able to get a better value for your money by booking an all-inclusive voyage as against a cruise with a cheap base fare.
These packages are especially attractive as they include airfare, transfers to the port, meals at premium dining venues, WiFi access and more.
Moreover, since you are booking spontaneously, you will know the total cost upfront and fill face no unwanted billing at the end of the cruise on items like bottled water, gratuities, snacks etc.
