15 Money Saving Hacks to Outsmart the Cruise Lines
Key Moments
Editorial Summary
The creator provides a comprehensive guide to reducing cruise expenses through strategic booking and onboard management. He advises against relying on holiday sales like Black Friday, suggesting instead that travelers book when new itineraries are released or shortly after final payment deadlines. The video highlights several specific financial advantages, such as purchasing cruise line stock to earn onboard credit and utilizing status match programs to unlock loyalty perks from other brands. For onboard savings, the creator recommends utilizing free continental breakfast via room service, opting for specialty restaurant lunch service instead of dinner, and bringing refillable water bottles to avoid extra charges. He also suggests booking private excursions through third-party companies to avoid high cruise line prices and crowds. To maximize value, the creator recommends cruising during shoulder seasons and booking subsequent voyages while still on the ship to secure exclusive onboard offers. Finally, he offers practical cabin tips, such as booking connecting rooms for more space or using the stateroom television to simulate a view in interior cabins.
Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.
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This review is more positive than the all-time creator consensus.
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Creator's Key Takeaways
The best times to book right when new itineraries are released, which is typically 18 to 24 months out or after the final payment deadline around 60 to 90 days before sailing.
You need just 100 shares of stock in the cruise line you're sailing with. So, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian all offer free onboard credit, typically $50 to $250 just for being a shareholder.
With their status match programs, they let you bring your loyalty level from another cruise line or even a hotel or airline and unlock instant perks on your first sailing.
Book two connecting cabins instead of a suite. You'll get more square footage, two bathrooms, and actual doors you can close, often for less than the cost of one suite.
Creator's Tips & Advice
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