4 ways to check for cruise price drops
Your last cruise was probably much more expensive than it had to be. Here’s how to keep your ear to the ground, and snare the best discount.
1. Check the web
This is the simplest option – just keep checking the cruise line’s website! Prices change all the time, so you never know when a new deal could come up. It can also help to clear your cache or browser history. Some sites use cookies that track when you’ve visited them, so won't show you a cheaper price. Clearing your cache means the site treats you like a brand new user and won’t base the prices on your previous visits.
2. Sign up for newsletters
Individual cruise lines, dedicated cruise booking sites and travel agents all have enewsletters that they send out to their databases every day or week. This is a great way to keep up to date with the latest deals. Many of these only last a short time (often only 24 to 48 hours) so keep an eye on your emails and act fast when the latest newsletter comes in.
3. Get the app
Cruising is so popular now that a number of companies have launched apps to help savvy travellers snag the best deals. Ship Mate is one app that covers all the major lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line and more. Once you book your cruise, enter the details into the app and sign up for a Cruise Price Alert. If the price of your cruise drops, you’ll receive a notification and you can go back to your travel agent to negotiate a better deal.
4. Be friendly with your agent
A good cruise travel agent is your best asset when looking for a deal. They will receive daily updates from the cruise lines or wholesalers and can pass the savings on to you. Tell them what you’re looking for and they can be on the lookout for the best deal on offer. Even if they can’t get you a cash discount, they might be able to get you some added extras like an upgrade, drinks package or sailaway gift.
Have you ever found a cruise price drop? Tell us about it in the comments section below.
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