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Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Second of a Three Part Series


The ABC's of Cruising  (Part Two)
 

In the first article, I discussed some initial concerns, primarily where and when to go, and the merits of an inside or outside cabin as well as its location on the ship you've decided to book.
 
Next up is where to buy the cruise.
 
First, I suggest that you subscribe to discount cruise outlets.  They will send you "specials" as they come along, and sooner or later, the cruise you are most interested in, will have some kind of promotion.
 
And...if the price seems right...book it...but make sure the cruise agency offers a "lowest price guarantee".
 
"A lowest price guarantee" makes sure that IF you find a lower price anywhere prior to your making final payment, they guarantee to REDUCE your price to that amount. 
 
Many outlets will tell you about this, but in reality, YOU must bring it to their attention in order to obtain the reduction in fare.  As a result, if this option is applicable, KEEP A SHARP EYE ON THE PRICE every few days.
 
This "best price guarantee" is usually good for up to 90 days prior to the sailing...as mentioned earlier...the date of final payment.
 
As a result, DON'T PAY THE BALANCE UNTIL THE FINAL DAY IT IS DUE.
 
If you do, the "best price guarantee" normally will NOT apply.
 
...and if you see a better price elsewhere, you can always cancel the original reservation (normally without penalty, and rebook it with the less expensive outlet. Make sure you cover that fully before you book the cruise.
 
90 days is critical...and that will be covered a bit later in this article.
 
Here are some of the best internet outlets I've experienced over the years.
 
For a starting point, I suggest you subscribe to "Vacations To Go".
 
 
Though I have never purchased anything from this site, it's always been a useful barometer as to the true cost of a cruise.  They have a "90 day ticker" that offers terrific bargains on cruises sailing within 90 days of the present date.  It's a benchmark to use when searching out other avenues, and checking it OFTEN, will reap its rewards.
 
Why is 90 days prior to a cruise a critical day in getting a bargain ?
 
...for a couple of reasons.
 
First, it is normally the "last date" for full payment of the balance, and many who originally booked and must cancel, do so on that day, or lose their entire deposit; and
 
Second, because cruise outlets usually have to return any unsold cabins remaining in their inventory to the cruise company ...rather than do that, you will see last minute bargains.
 
...and "bargains" can come in different ways; either a fare reduction, or in the case of those cruise companies who do not permit discounting, will give you a little something extra to make up for the inability to discount.
 
Some might offer you "prepaid gratuities", others will give you a "shipboard credit" on any purchases made on the ship; and still others, might discount shore excursions or provide you "specialty dinners" in an exclusive restaurant on board.
 
So...the best bargains are within 90-100 days of the actual sailing. You may not get the cabin of your choice, but the cost will more than make up for it !
 
...and if none of the cabins "fit your bill", remember...you're retired and there will always be other bargains in the future.
 
These are just a few of the discount cruise outlets I have used over the years...
 
Best Price Cruises
 
CruCon Cruise Outlet
 
Cruises- N-More
 
Cruises Only
 
Then...after you have your best price, use this site "to keep them honest". 
 
Cruise Compete
 
Cruise Compete allows you to state your preferences, and send it back to them.  Within a short time, you will receive offers from various discount cruise outlets "giving it their best shot" to earn your business.
 
In addition to these, if you are a former airline employee or retired military, there are discount agencies offering even greater discounts, often for specific cruises.
 
Here's yet another benefit....
 
No matter where you purchase your cruise...
 
... if you choose to cruise on any Carnival Corporation owned cruise line (Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Costa), and you own just 100 shares of Carnival Corporation common stock, you will also receive a special "shipboard credit" for being a stockholder. 
 
That special ADDITIONAL shipboard credit will be between $50 and $250 depending on the length of the cruise purchased.
 
So...this Part Two will hopefully give you an idea or two as to who to buy from and when.
 
If you can suggest any other discount sites, send us an email at:
 
 
We'll be glad to pass those on to our readers as well
 
In our Part Three, we'll cover transportation and shore excursions...and how to get the best "bang for your buck" in those areas.
 

Dick Arendt

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