As we all know (or will in a moment), cruise prices this year have plummeted
to unbelievably low levels. Never have I seen so many bargains for peak
summer sailings to Europe and Alaska--not to mention rock-bottom prices for
the fall that are so low, it doesn't pay to stay home! And the bargains are
not just found on "second-rate" or older ships, but on the newest, biggest
and best ships out there--on prime itineraries during peak dates! Consider
one-week rates of $599 and $699 for Alaska, $1099 for Europe, $499 in the
Caribbean. Not only are there low "lead-in" rates such as these, which are
usually for the minimum inside categories, but you can also find great
ocean-view and balcony bargains for $749, $899 and $999.
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Two questions arise: "How do I find these bargains?" and "How can I be
assured that I'm getting the best price and value?"
As I have mentioned previously, I am a big advocate of booking early to
secure space on the ship and itinerary you want and the cabin or category of
your choice. By booking early, you'll get the "pick of the litter"--but you
might also be quoted a higher price than you'd see later, for the same cabin.
Why? Because the cruise lines will always price the ships higher farther out
and lower the prices closer in if they see the ships are not filling up. But
you don't want to be stuck paying a higher price when you can get it for
less. Who in their right mind would? Everyone loves a bargain!
Here are my tips for getting the ship, itinerary and sailing date of your
choice, but still getting the best value you can.
If you set your sights on a particular cruise, go ahead and book early. All
you need to do is put down a deposit. Hence, you have nothing to lose.
Periodically monitor cruise, travel agent and cruise line web sites. Also
sign up for their e-mail lists so they'll automatically send you their latest
bargains and specials.
Don't sign up for so many that you'll be overwhelmed, but do read them and
keep an eye on pricing.
Ask your cruise agent about his/her policies and those of the cruise line you
booked regarding price monitoring and rate adjustments. Most agents do try to
monitor prices and be vigilant, but they can't keep track of every price on
every cruise where they have clients booked. Also, be wary of agents who are
unwilling to make changes, or who charge excessive change fees.
Be mindful of the cruise line's policy regarding full payment and when
penalties for canceling or rebooking kick in.
Approximately one week before final payment, ask your agent to check the
sailing for any price reductions.
Don't be bashful when it comes to asking about rate adjustments after final
payment, if a lower rate becomes available. Many times the cruise line or
even the agent will balk. But if you and your agent are persistent, you may
get a reduction to a lower rate without the cruise line charging you a
penalty.
Sometimes, getting a lower fare and better value for your cruise might come
with a "price," and this is where you have to be flexible.
If you spot a cruise right before or after your scheduled departure date
that has better pricing than yours, consider switching your departure date.
If you spot a different but comparable cruise ship and itinerary for a
better price, consider that option.
More often than not, lower prices or promotions closer in to the sailing
date only apply to "Guarantees" or "Run of Ship" rates, which wont allow you
to select a cabin or even a cabin category.
Many promotional rates introduced close to sailing are not combinable with
cruise line air programs. This can be an especially important factor for
destinations like Alaska, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific.
Hopefully, getting the best price-and more importantly, the best value--for
your hard-earned cruise bucks won't take too much work on your part, and
should not be a trying experience. The key is to be flexible and savvy. Do a
little homework and surf the net a bit, and you'll be amazed at what you can
find!
