Luxury cruise holidays are growing in popularity, with many operators meeting demands by unveiling an array of brand new, world-class ships. With all of the added opulence, however, comes a price tag. Some new ships can cost customers anywhere from £100-a-night to £8k-a-night depending on the type of experience they are looking to have. With the industry booming and more options available than ever before, how can customers looking for the best experience do so without forking out thousands?
Whether you’re heading on a week-long ocean vacation or splashing out with an adventurous global venture, there are plenty of options available for cruise enthusiasts.
However, every trip comes with its own price tag, and some are higher than others.
Many cruises offer options that allow travellers to tailor their trip to their specific needs, from all-inclusive packages to food, spa and entertainment add ons.
One industry expert spoke with Express.co.uk to give us the low down on how travellers can save their pennies while still enjoying the ultimate experience.
Chairman and Chief Executive of independent cruise specialist SuperCruises Alexander Panagopulos says it is important that cruisers do their “homework” before they book.
He said: “A cruise can be very expensive when you book the wrong cruise, by not having done your homework, exacting your preferences and budget, or booking via a third party who tends to oversell.”
The type of cruise a customer opts for ultimately plays the biggest part in how much the trip will set them back.
The more high-class a cruise is, naturally the more expensive it will be.
While suites are an obvious additional cost, some cruisers can be caught out by opting for a room with a window over “inside” cabins.
The time of year you book will also be a key player.
Many cruise lines offer departure dates spanning the entire calendar, with winter options growing in popularity for those who want to sail into the sun.
Furthermore, the far-flung and in-demand destinations can also see an increase in prices.
Not only will passengers seeking in-demand routes feel the weight of additional costs, they should also be mindful of the departure port as additional transport may be required.
“Cruising itineraries vary greatly in price, depending on the region, and season, however, competition keeps the deals flowing and due to that, the cruiser can travel further afield at incredible prices,” explains Alexander.
“Of course World Cruises are expensive, but nothing to be compared to travelling the world by any other form of transport, in luxurious surroundings, hassle-free. In general cruise holidays are excellent value for money, providing the customer has done their homework and has bought the cruise that suits all their needs.”
However, Panagopulos explains that customers can end up forking out more even after their trip has been booked.
“Shore excursions, drinks, spa and speciality dining tend to be the where cruisers will part easily with their hard-earned cash,” he said.
It was recently revealed that drinks are one of the heaviest hitters when it comes to overspending at sea.
Simon Hoe, Global Head of Marketing at Cruise1st, explained that there is one drink that some lines catch passengers out with.
“Most lines also have a Drink of the Day, which is pricier because of the souvenir glass they’re served in,” he told Express.co.uk.
“Simply ask for it to be served in a regular glass, and you’ll save a little. It always pays to inquire, so don’t feel like you’re being forward with some of your requests.”
Alexander echoes this idea, saying: “Make sure you get the best value proposition. A cheap cruise fare may not, in the end, be the best value for your money, therefore research is key,” he says.
“If you enjoy an extra cocktail or two, it is worth booking a drinks package or make sure it is included in your cruise fare. Buying extras onboard tend to be more expensive than purchasing them before you sail.”
Some cruise lines actually do allow you to bring aboard your own booze, however, it is vital that you read the fine print of your provider’s policy before you travel.
Certain lines, such as Royal Caribbean, do not allow passengers to bring aboard alcohol and may confiscate any found.
According to Royal Caribbean: “Alcoholic beverages seized on embarkation day will not be returned.”
If food and drink are a vital part of your holiday relaxation, the best thing to do is consider the upfront fee for all-inclusive which will reduce the risk of unexpected costs.
Alexander adds: “The best way to ensure you do not overspend, is to book an all-inclusive cruise holiday.
“If, however, you don’t want to feel restrained and want to do your own thing, as and when you please, you can book ad-ons, like shore excursions, drink packages and other extras before your departure.
“In either of these cases, you will have your budget pretty much down to a T before you set sail.”
Along with this handy advice, SuperCruises also frequently offer unique deals to customers who book through them.
Currently, they are offering £100 cashback to customers who spend £1,000 or more with the site.
However, cruisers should grab this offer while they can, since they will only have until 31 October to secure their extra spending money.
With other 15,000 global cruise itineraries, in 30 regions and across 1,000 ports, globetrotters will have the entire world at their fingertips.
The online provider also includes all of the up-to-date deals from leading cruise line operators.