Cruise on a Budget?

If you’ve never been on a cruise before the cost might seem out of reach or simply absurd. Why would someone spend thousands of dollars floating on boat for days, weeks, or months at a time. Cruisers (people who love cruising) enjoy these types of “Almost inclusive” vacations. For one base fee cruisers can enjoy lodging with daily services, buffet or menu meals, and transportation to far off places in the world.

Cruising also comes with several extra costs too that surprises guests when the final bill is posted. For example, you can expect to pay extra for wi-fi, alcohol and sometimes soft drinks, spa treatments, and gratuities. These extras might run hundreds of dollars on top of the thousands of dollars paid for the cruise.

Interested in cruising on a smaller budget? It can be done! There are great deals to be had on the base price. Cruiseplum.com and Cruise.com are great aggregate websites to find the price point and destination of your dreams. You could even research perks through your employer or affiliated groups. For example, some union groups, AARP, military, or credit unions offer packages which may not reduce the base price but will get you free upgrades or onboard credit. Once your research is finished, you can book directly with the cruise line. And don’t forget to look at credit card points for discounts too.

But after the cruise is purchased and the “final” payment is made. Do you HAVE to spend more money? No, no you don’t. Below are 15 other ways you can save money on a cruise. These are free activities that vary across cruise lines.

1. Play trivia

2. Go to the fitness center or walk on the promenade

3. Live entertainment music, magicians and hypnotists

4. Watch or play in the various tournaments (cards, sports, shuffleboard, golf-darts)

5. Dance Parties

6. Window shopping at expensive ship stores

7. Lounge on the decks when the weather is decent

8. Join a book or hobby club

9. Go to lectures on various topics

10. Join a social group (LGBTQIA, Veterans, knitting, solo travelers, Friends of Bill W.)

11. Scavenger hunts

12. Look through or relax in the library

13. Learn a skill (Line dancing, bridge, or ballroom dancing)

14. Swim or enjoy the hot tub

15. Food and alcohol tastings (free on some ships)

16. Take time to enjoy the scenery. Sunrises, sunsets, and wildlife are magical on a cruise ship.