Early bookings and cabin choices can help reduce cruise costs

Booking early may provide a stronger mix of price and cabin availability because cruise fares generally increase as ships fill and departures approach, according to Clean Cruising director Dan Russell. He said early reservations can be particularly useful for securing popular cabin categories.

Home Travel Company owner and manager Robyn Sinfield advised budget-conscious passengers to consider inside or ocean-view cabins rather than balconies or suites, especially if they expect to spend most of their time elsewhere on the ship or ashore. She also said older ships can offer appealing itineraries at lower prices than newer vessels, potentially saving couples hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Russell said travel agents accredited by Cruise Lines International Association may have access to group allocations, exclusive fares, onboard credit or extra inclusions not offered through direct bookings. CLIA executive director Australasia Joel Katz added that cruise-line loyalty programs may provide bonuses and priority services for frequent passengers.

Travelers can also compare packages with individual purchases. Russell said Princess Cruises’ Princess Plus and Premier fares combine drinks, Wi-Fi, dining and gratuities at a lower overall cost than buying them separately onboard. He also advised checking Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner for pre-cruise offers on drinks, Wi-Fi, dining, excursions and activities. Sinfield said repositioning cruises often have competitive fares and may cost less per day than standard voyages.