A cruise can appear very cheap when looking at the advertised price, but after taxes, gratuities, travel arrangements and onboard expenses the final price tag might be more than you expected, therefore, budget accordingly.
After all, it's important you have enough money to enjoy yourself while onboard.
With larger cruise lines, like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, the two biggest cruise lines in the world with a growing fleet of around 22 ships each; the newer the ship, the nicer the décor and amenities.
With these cruise lines, the service is pretty standard across the fleet but the amenities of the ship differ with the ship.
Going on a newer ship will be an entirely different experience than going on an older ship, even within the same cruise line.
This is very important when talking to previous cruisers and learning of their experiences.
If someone really liked their Costa cruise, it doesn't guarantee they would like all Costa cruises.
The same goes for all large cruise lines.
However, with smaller cruise lines, the level of service and amenities depend on the star of service for the ship.
You can have an immaculate older ship that is Five Star, for example, Crystal, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises.
These companies also have newer ships, therefore you get Five Star service with 'new ship' amenities.
But remember, the higher Star of service doesn't always mean you will have a better cruise.
For example, some people prefer Princess Cruises over the Five Star services of Celebrity.
Or prefer Royal Caribbean instead of the Six Star services of Azamara Cruises.
It all depends on your individual tastes and lifestyles.
Therefore don't let the price tag be your only deciding factor.
Special Note: There are three things that can blow your budget out of the water:
- Shore excursions
- Spa treatments
- Alcoholic beverages
Keep these three things in check and you will have enough money left over for your next cruise.
Planning your perfect cruise continues with Part 4