Ways to Save on a Cruise

1) Be flexible on your dates. Sometimes leaving a week earlier or later can get you the same cruise -- same ship, same itinerary -- for a lower price. Never pay the brochure price for your cruise.

2) Cruise In The Off Season. Cruises are more expensive in high season, so if you can go some other time you will save even more. Alaska cruises are cheaper in May and September. Europe and Mediterranean cruises in September and October. Caribbean cruises
in September, October and January.

3) Cruise with a group. Groups that travel together save more. Most cruise lines offer group discounts and / or free upgrades and additional amentities. Most lines consider a group to be 8 or more cabins.

4) Consider a repositioning cruise. Repositioning cruises are sometimes half the cost of the same number of days when they get to their destination, but they have more days at sea and fewer ports of call.

5) Check for Resident Rates. Carnival, Royal Caribbean & Celebrity will sometimes offer special reduced rates for residents of certain states. Yyou will be required to show proof of residence when boarding the ship!

6) Credit card promotions: Some credit card companies offer additional savings, shipboard credits or frequent flyer miles when you pay for your cruise in full with that credit card.

7) Consider an inside stateroom. If you think of a stateroom as only a place for sleeping and dressing, and a view isn't necessary, you can save money with an inside stateroom.

8) Check for senior citizen specials. Some cruise lines have discounts for persons over age 55 or 65. If you are a senior, be sure to mention it when you ask about a price.

9) Have three or four in a cabin. Third or fourth persons (or children) go at a substantial discount, sometimes free. Everyone shares in the savings.

10) Check for special promotions. Watch ads and newsletters for promotional specials. There may be a two-for-one offer, kids free, or 50 percent off for the second passenger.