Booking Your Cruise
Now you have selected your cruise and you want to make a booking but you still have some choices to make. We have prepared some tips on each step in the booking process and we recommend that you read them all. In summary here are the main steps to consider:
Select Your Cabin
Your cabin selection can have a big effect on the price you have to pay for your cruise - prices depend on the type, size and facilities of the cabin and its location and you will be presented with a confusing list of cabin types. Your travel agent will find out for you what cabins are available so you can select a specific cabin, but sometimes you can only book a grade of cabin.
Fly-Cruise package or Cruise Only?
Unless you are cruising from the UK, you will probably need to fly to join your cruise. If so you have three choices of how your cruise is organised:
- a cruise line package that includes flights, transfers and cruise - the hassle free alternative
- a travel agent package where they organise each element for you
- you buy the cruise only and organise your own flights and transfers.
Budgeting your Cruise
Once you have decided what you want you should have a look at the possible costs. Cruises are marketed as all inclusive and indeed the fare does include the cruise and all meals and entertainment onboard. However when budgeting for your trip it is important to allow for additional costs like parking, drinks, shore excursions and tipping.
Selecting a Travel Agent
Finding a good Travel Agent experienced and knowledgeable in cruising can make a big difference to your cruise experience. If you enquire through our site an independent Travel Agents specialising in cruising and will offer you a personal service, help and advice on your selection and take you through the booking process right up to departure.
Paying for your cruise
Expect to pay a deposit on booking of 10% of the cruise package cost with the balance payable 60 days before departure. Watch out for booking fees and credit card handling fees.
Insurance
You do need to have travel insurance in place for peace of mind and not least because the cruise lines insist that you have travel insurance before taking your cruise.