Booking Passage on a Cruise Ship

Booking Passage Made Easy

Who to talk to and what to say for big savings in fares

Booking passage on a cruise ship can sometimes be so confusing that if you didn't need a vacation when you started, you will definitely need one by the time you set sail. Some cruise lines don't even book directly, and those that do often neglect to point out ways you can save. Where is a cruiser to turn?

A travel agent can do the job – and can book flights, cars and hotels as well – but members of the National Association of Cruise Agents or agents affiliated with Cruise Lines International Association have even greater expertise about ships, and often offer discounts that regular travel agents can't.

Some alternatives without the bells and whistles offer even better deals. Cruise discounters aren't the type to sit down with you and help you plan your cruise, but they do offer a wide variety of discounts on a limited number of ships. They are best for repeat cruise customers who know what they want.

Then there are cruise clubs, which are limited to dues-paying members and specialize in large, last-minute discounts. Dues usually range from $100 to $200 annually. Before you join, though, make sure the club really offers the discounts it claims.

Book your place on a cruise ship. Photograph by Elena.

No matter who you use to book your cruise, you will be able to get a better deal if you come across as a seasonal sailor who knows the ropes. Here are eight strategies to consider:

Book early: You get a bargain rate – sometimes as much as 50 percent off – and you are first in line to be upgraded to a better cabin.

Book off-season: You can get as much as half off if you sail when the crowds don't. Cruises from September until December 14 offer bargain prices as do those sailing during the first three weeks in January. Some deals are available in mid-season from April until July.

Join a past passenger club: If you've cruised on the same line before, you could be in line for cruise discounts, free shore expeditions, cabin upgrades, at dinner at the captain's table. Even if your cruise line doesn't have a past passenger club, make sure you inform them you've sailed before. You may get special treatment.

Sail standby: If you sail standby, a category A cabin on American Hawaii Cruises is yours for almost half off the brochure price, and they will guarantee your reservation 21 days before departure. Saver programs offer discounts about a month before sailing if space is still available.

Look at travel magazines; They carry ads for cruise discounters in the back. Cruise magazine is available everywhere.

Look for senior citizen discounts: The older set often qualify for discounts, especially off-season. For more information call the American Association for Retired People Travel Service.

Book as a group: Most ships offer discounts to groups of 10 to 15. And they sometimes throw in a free cabin for the group leader.

Book at the last minute: If you can't book early, your best bet for getting a bargain is booking late. Choices may be limited, but check with cruise discounters.

Know your agent: If you're interested in a particular cruise line, call it and ask for the names of agencies in your area. Agencies that fill ships often get price breaks. East Coast agencies may have better rates on Caribbean cruises, West Coast agencies on Alaska and Pacific cruises.