Finding honeymoon cruise packages on a budget can be a bit daunting. With so many different options available online these days, it’s not always a super quick job. Moreover, the massive onslaught of online booking websites has brought along a barrage of cruise packages; ranging from extremely expensive to slightly cheaper. True, some budgets allow for the best cabin on the very best cruise liners. However, other budgets may call for some type of compromise. This guide will help serve as assistance to those looking to balance the options and amenities they want while keeping everything within their budget.
Honeymoon Cruise Packages from a Travel Agent or Website
The best thing to do when finding honeymoon cruise packages on a budget is to take your time and shop around. Sadly, it can be very easy to be impulsive and go with the first deal that looks to be fair and within your price range. However, you may end up over paying or settling for less than your budget actually allows for.
I recommend speaking to several travel agents. Furthermore, check all available travel and comparison sites as well; and even ask your friends who have gone on cruises themselves. Lastly, you should sign up through top travel websites to receive email or text alerts when last minute cruise deals are available at discounted rates. The more resources you tap, the better your chances are of finding those last minute deals. They can end up saving you a bunch of money while still providing an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Book Directly With the Cruise Line
Many couples are not aware that you can actually avoid using a travel agent or website altogether when booking a honeymoon cruise. In fact, you can sometimes get the best deals by contacting the company who owns the cruise liner directly and avoid paying the additional fees tacked on by the agent or company that owns the booking website. Additionally, many of the companies have free upgrade packages or special onboard perks for people going on their honeymoon; which is something that only the cruise liner company is authorized to give away.
Make sure to mention it is your honeymoon when contacting the cruise liner company directly if you want to see what deals are available, because there is nothing bragging about your honeymoon; especially if it garners special treatment.
Tips on Looking for Cheap Honeymoon Cruise Packages
Believe it or not, there are great ways to get a honeymoon cruise package on a budget without needing to compromise on quality or amenities. Below are some tips to think about when booking your ideal honeymoon cruise and staying within your budget.
Choosing Your Cabin
Usually when a cruise package has slipped into the “last minute deal” category, the cabins that are available are the least desirable. It can be because of poor quality or that they are located in an inconvenient area of the ship. While you can certainly save some money by taking whatever is available, it will likely be an interior cabin without any windows and very little luxury. Just be aware of that before you start shopping.
What is Included?
You will want to know what is included with the price of your room and tickets before you get onboard. Typically, a honeymoon cruise package will include all your food and drink in the price. However, some “discount” packages require that you pay for one or both. Make sure you know what you are paying for before you book. Otherwise, it may not be as good of a deal as you had hoped.
Deals for your 1st Anniversary
Once you book your honeymoon cruise package, many cruise lines offer a really great discount on another cruise for your 1st anniversary. Typically, they will give you a voucher after you return from your honeymoon cruise. However, they may mail it to your home or require you to call when you’re ready to book. Regardless of the details, you can get another really great cruise for a fraction of the price. Trust me; it’s worth whatever trouble you may need to go through.
Weighing Your Options
If you can afford it, paying full price is always going to be the easiest option. However, you are paying for convenience and first choice; not for a better cabin necessarily. If you can follow the tips I provided, you can find honeymoon cruise packages on a budget quite easily. Though they come with some compromises, they payoff can be well worth it.