- The number of ocean cruises taken last year reached over two million for the first time, hitting a record 2,009,000 in 2018 – up two percent from 2017.
- Geneva-based cruise line MSC Cruises has revealed their top tip for when to best book your trip.
- Book your cruise ship tour very well in advance to save money and also booking during often season is very cheap.
- Also, cruise travelers are advised to organize their food and drink ahead of the cruise and also to book excursions onboard in advance.
According to an article published in Express UK, cruise holidays are hugely popular but there is often the concern that taking such a trip could well prove too expensive.
Tips to save money on a cruise
Travel experts at MSC Cruises have revealed a top tip for the best time to book a cruise to help you save money.
Cruise holidays are undeniably growing in popularity. Yet some people may worry that booking a cruise could prove to be expensive. However, there are various ways cruise travelers can save money when it comes to organizing a cruise holiday.
Look for the best time
MSC Cruises told, “In cruise, you really are rewarded for booking early. Cruises go on sale up to 18 months before the sailing so there’s plenty of time to do your research and grab a bargain. January to March is called the ‘wave’ season where booking early is encouraged.”
“For the last two year’s MSC Cruises have included an all-inclusive drinks package with all bookings made for the current year and the following year so keep your eyes peeled on social media and websites to secure the best cabins at the best price.”
The cruise line added: “Whilst the ‘wave season’ officially starts in January promotions are often started as early as December so keep one eye on your mince pie and one eye online.”
Another trick to saving money is to travel out of season
“Visit the Mediterranean in winter and cruise for as little as £399 per person on MSC Meraviglia, one of the newest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet and get to explore the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Trevi Fountain in Rome and Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta without the peak season crowd,” said MSC Cruises.
Organize your food and drink ahead of your cruise
To benefit from further money-saving it’s advisable to organise your food and drink ahead of your cruise.
“Always book food and drinks packages in advance,” said MSC Cruises. “By booking the Trio of dining experiences on MSC Seaside you can have a three-course meal in three of the specialty restaurants for just £55 per person saving 36 percent by booking in advance.”
Holidaymakers needn’t worry about spending money on food during their trip as it’s all included.
“On an MSC Cruises’ ship food is included in the price of your cruise fare which means you have several options each day from eating in the international buffet to a sit-down meal in one of the main restaurants,” the cruise line said.
“In these restaurants, the menu is different for every meal of the day, every day of your cruise. For something a little special there are specialty restaurants that come at an additional charge.”
It also included, “On MSC Seaside there are six specialty restaurants, Asian Market kitchen by the award-winning Roy Yamaghuci where you can feast on Sushi or his famous Asian fusion dishes, or enjoy an interactive Teppanyaki experience; Ocean Cay, a treat for seafood lovers; the Butchers Cut Steakhouse, perfect for the meat lover and a French Bistrot.”
Booking excursions in advance of your trip
“Every ship does organized excursions which leave from the ship and return you to the ship without you having to think about anything other than enjoying yourself,” said MSC Cruises.
Just like drinks packages, you can book tours in advance saving 20 percent either online, via the call center or your local travel agent. There are plenty of activities onboard cruise ships that are totally free to enjoy so money saving can continue after the holiday has started without cramping your fun.
For instance, if you’re on an alcohol-inclusive fare, it’s worth making the most of the beverages available (within reason). It’s not just luxury cruise lines that offer this now, however. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Sky includes most drinks in its basic cruise prices.
Meanwhile, Princess Cruises offer free pizzas from Alfredo’s Pizzeria – an Italian-style venue aboard Grand Princess, Sapphire Princess, Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, and Sky Princess.
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Source: ExpressUK
