Save Big on Cruise Bookings

Strategies for Saving Money on Cruises

Booking a cruise can be an exciting way to spend quality time with family or enjoy a romantic getaway. However, it can also be a complex process, especially when trying to maximize savings and rewards. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help you save money while still enjoying the benefits of a cruise. Here are three effective methods for saving money on cruises.

1. Book a Cruise with Rewards Credit Cards

Using a rewards credit card is one of the most effective ways to save money on a cruise. These cards offer points, miles, or cash back that can be used toward travel expenses, including cruises. However, it's important to choose the right card to maximize your savings.

Ted Rossman from Creditcards.com suggests avoiding cruise-branded credit cards, which often have limited rewards and restrict you to a single cruise line. Instead, he recommends using a flexible travel rewards card or a cash-back card. Here are some top options:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This card earns five points for every dollar spent through its travel portal. While you must call a Chase cruise specialist at 1-866-331-0773 to book, it offers 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months. It also provides travel assistance and no foreign transaction fees.

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: This card earns 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. New cardholders receive a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles, equal to $750 in travel. You can also get reimbursed at the rate of one cent per mile for bookings outside the Capital One platform.

• Citi Double Cash® Credit Card: This no-fee card offers a sign-up bonus of $200 cash back after spending $1,500 in the first six months. It also provides 2% cash back on all purchases, with 1% when you make a purchase and an additional 1% when you pay the bill.

By using these cards strategically, you can earn valuable rewards and save money on your cruise.

2. Use a Costco or BJ's Membership

Costco and BJ's Wholesale Club members can take advantage of exclusive travel discounts, including cruise packages. These memberships offer access to some of the lowest prices on cruises, along with additional perks such as discounts on airfare, rental cars, and hotels.

Costco offers cruise packages under its Kirkland brand, which are often among the cheapest available. For example, a Caribbean and Bahamas 7-night Star of the Seas cruise starts at $1,485 per person (including taxes and fees). The entry-level Costco membership costs $65 per year.

BJ's members receive up to a $500 BJ gift card when booking a cruise through the company's travel portal. They also offer discounts on major cruise lines, as well as other travel-related expenses. The lowest membership tier costs $55 per year.

Both Costco and BJ's provide last-minute deals on cruises, making them excellent options for budget-conscious travelers.

3. Use Travel Agents

While online booking platforms like Expedia have made it easier to plan trips, travel agents still offer valuable services, especially for complex bookings like cruises. A good travel agent can help you find the best deals, understand pricing tiers, and manage multiple payment deadlines.

Travel agents typically do not charge direct fees, as their commissions are covered by the cruise lines. To find a reputable agent, ask for recommendations from friends or family who have booked cruises. You can also check reviews from the Better Business Bureau or look for accredited agents through organizations like the American Society of Travel Agents’ consumer site, Travel Sense.

Other Considerations

When planning a cruise, it's important to consider factors beyond just cost. The cruise industry has faced challenges related to health and environmental concerns. Norovirus outbreaks have impacted passenger experiences, and cruise ships are known for their significant carbon footprint and waste discharge.

If environmental issues are a priority for you, research cruise lines with strong sustainability policies. You can check the cleanliness and sanitation of cruise ships using the CDC's Advanced Cruiseship Inspection Search tool.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a cruise that offers value, comfort, and enjoyment while aligning with your personal priorities. By using rewards credit cards, membership programs, and travel agents, you can save money and make the most of your cruise experience.