Examine the Small Print
Read each offer thoroughly because it will detail exactly what your purchase entitles you to. For example, if you have claustrophobia, an inside cabin is not a good deal. Views from outside cabins for sale may be obstructed. Some last-minute deals are for guaranteed cabins, which cannot be requested by cabin number or location. Look for service costs, government taxes, and port charges, which are frequently not included in the purchase price. Also, check to see if special offers require you to pay in full at the time of booking or if deposits are nonrefundable.
Be adaptable.
If you book late, you will get whatever is left after the early planners have made their reservations. You have a lower chance of getting a popular suite or balcony cabin, a premium dinner table or seats, or a desirable cabin location. You’ll be more likely to enjoy your inexpensive cruise if you don’t have your heart set on specific features.
Take the Automobile
If you don’t have to bother buying airfare and can simply drive to your cruise port, it’s easier to say yes to an eleventh-hour offer. If you reside within driving distance of a homeport, narrow down your search to those departures. If you can find a good bargain, you may quickly plan a pre-cruise road trip to get there. Park-sleep-cruise packages are available at some hotels near major embarkation points.
Maintain the Continuity of Your Passport
You don’t want to arrange a last-minute trip only to discover that a passport is required and yours has expired. If you want to arrange a quick holiday, make sure your passport has at least six months until it expires – and renew it ahead of time if it doesn’t.