Expert Cruiser Reveals Top Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Voyage
For over a quarter of a century, seasoned traveller Gary Bembridge has explored the globe, embarking on monthly trips to diverse destinations. With over 100 cruises under his belt, Bembridge now leverages his extensive personal experiences to offer valuable insights to travellers across various social media platforms. In a recent YouTube video on his popular “Tips for Travellers” channel, boasting 467,000 subscribers, Gary unveiled a crucial tip for cruise enthusiasts looking to reduce expenses. Cruise vacations can be costly, but this savvy advice can help make your next trip more affordable.
Passenger Input Sparks Money-Saving Advice
The genesis of these helpful hints occurred during a cruise with fellow passengers. Bembridge initiated a conversation on the Norwegian Viva, polling travellers about the “tip, hack, or trip” that had most positively transformed their cruise experiences. Among the top five recommendations, one stood out for its potential to secure better fares or deals on future cruise holidays.
Unlock Savings by Booking Onboard
Bembridge explained, “The next piece of advice, which resonated strongly with people, centred on saving money – a universally appreciated topic. However, many cruisers inadvertently miss out on this opportunity.”
He then disclosed the secret: “Booking a future cruise, or purchasing a future cruise deposit certificate, while you are currently sailing, is advantageous if you plan to cruise with the same line within the next few years.”
He elaborated that passengers he encountered onboard were actively taking advantage of this strategy because the cruise line was promoting a special offer on future cruise deposits, exclusively available during the voyage.
“Booking onboard consistently includes discounts or additional onboard credit that are simply unattainable elsewhere,” the experienced cruiser emphasized.
Travel Agent Flexibility and Status Matching
Bembridge further highlighted that onboard bookings can still be linked to travel agents. Many agents permit “no-penalty changes,” a significant benefit, particularly for UK travellers who often lack refundable booking options.
For those seeking savings but not necessarily loyal to a single cruise line, another “underutilised” tactic exists: status matching. Certain cruise companies will “status match” with competitors. By demonstrating loyalty to another line or tour operator, travellers can unlock various perks, including:
- Complimentary speciality dining
- Onboard discounts
- Priority embarkation and disembarkation
He illustrated, “Some cruise lines extend status sharing within affiliated groups. For instance, despite limited prior experience with Royal Caribbean and no existing status, my high-tier Diamond status with their sister line, Celebrity Cruises, was matched. This granted me benefits like access to the Royal Lounge, complete with snacks, coffee, and happy hour.”
Bembridge concluded, “It’s essential for cruisers to inquire whether a prospective cruise line will status match any existing loyalty programs and statuses they hold.”