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| | | Cruises are becoming an increasingly popular and convenient way to travel both domestically and abroad. Commonly cited benefits include the convenience of staying in one room for an entire trip, onboard activities and the value from including room, meals and activities in one price. The variety of cruise ships has increased, and travelers can select from a smorgasbord of destinations and ship types. Because different cruise lines have different policies about including tips, snacks and fees in the price, be sure to do an apples-to-apples comparison when comparing options. | | |
| Typical costs: | |
| What should be included: | - Onboard accommodations, meals and activities are usually included.
- Port fees and taxes are often included in the price, but you should check with your cruise line.
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| Additional costs: | - Often, drinks or alcoholic drinks and upscale meals are not included in the price, and can add a substantial sum to the total.
- Other entertainment activities aboard the ship, including shopping and gambling (if available) cost extra.
- Airfare is usually not included. Air-inclusive packages sometimes provide a great deal on the flight, but other times passengers can find a better price on their own.
- Shore excursions, including tours and meals off the ship are not included. Day tours from the port can cost $40 or more.
- There may be an additional charge for single-occupancy cabins.
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| Discounts: | - Travel agents and Internet sites usually offer prices substantially below the cruise lines "brochure rate."
- Booking in advance, even 4-6 months in advance or more, often gets a better price. If you are flexible in your plans, you may also find last minute bargains from travel agents and travel websites.
- Another way to save is to take a 'repositioning cruise' where the ship is moving to another port. Although you may have fewer port stops, the price can be discounted $30 or more a day.
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| Shopping for a cruise: | |
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Article updated November 2006 |
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