A cruise is a luxury in itself being in a floating hotel with guaranteed blue ocean views and unmissable adventures but, let’s face it, a cruise holiday can sometimes feel out of reach financially. If you are like me and a budget-conscious traveller, do not fear. Cruising can be surprisingly affordable, offering a lot of bang for your buck if you do it right. I will guide you on how to choose the right cruise for you without breaking the bank.

Understand that various cruises have different price points and there are several factors that affect this. 

Ship Size and Amenities: Larger ships packed with features like water slides, climbing walls, and multiple specialty restaurants will naturally be more expensive than smaller, more basic vessels. Consider prioritising the amenities that matter most to you and choose a ship that strikes the right balance between features and affordability. I personally like the ships that have decent sized heated pools.

Itinerary: Dreaming of far-away destinations like the South Pacific, Antarctica or the Caribbean? Be prepared for a higher price tag compared to a European cruise closer to home. The duration of the cruise also plays a role, with longer voyages typically costing more… unless doing a transatlantic or transpacific (also known as a re-positioning cruise). These 2-week cruises can be cheaper as they move from from cruise itinerary to another taking the opportunity to do renovations etc.

Seasonality: Similar to flights and hotels, cruise prices fluctuate based on seasonality. Peak seasons like summer and holidays will see higher prices compared to shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider opting for an off-peak cruise to score significant savings. Lastminute sailings can either increase rapidly in price or be at it’s lowest with ‘last-minute deals’ so always check on websites such as Vacations to Go. 

Accommodations: Interior staterooms, the most basic accommodations on a cruise ship, offer the most affordable option. While they won’t have a window or balcony, they provide a comfortable space to sleep and shower. Upgrading to an ocean view or balcony stateroom will increase the cost, but also provide extra space and stunning ocean views. Balcony views may be a requirement for you when sailing somewhere like the Norwegian Fjords, however, a cruise where you will spend more time off the ship doing excursions… not so much. I did an inside cabin for a 7-day Norway cruise which was doable. You just have to make the most of the public areas of the ship.

Choose a Budget-Friendly Cruise Line: Several cruise lines cater specifically to budget-conscious travellers. Lines like Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line (with their freestyle dining concept), and Costa Cruises offer excellent value for money. These lines may have fewer amenities compared to luxury ships, but they still provide a fun and enjoyable cruise experience.

Look for Deals and Promotions: Many cruise lines offer promotions and discounts throughout the year. Keep an eye on their websites and social media pages for deals like “Kids Sail Free” offers, discounts for 2nd & 3rd sailers or onboard credit incentives.

Plan Your Shore Excursions: Shore excursions can add significantly to your overall cruise cost. Research destinations beforehand and consider exploring independently or booking tours through local vendors instead of cruise line excursions.

By understanding cruise costs and employing these budget-friendly tips, you can plan an incredible cruise holiday without sacrificing your financial well-being. Do you crave a luxurious suite with a private balcony, or are you content with a comfortable interior stateroom? Do you dream of exotic destinations, or are you happy exploring closer-to-home ports? Once you prioritise your needs and wants, you can choose a cruise line and itinerary that aligns perfectly with your budget and travel style.