Cruise Expert Shares Tips on Maximizing Value and Avoiding Unnecessary Costs
A seasoned cruise expert outlines key areas where travelers can enhance their experience and where to save money on a cruise holiday.
Cruise holidays often offer an all-inclusive experience, covering meals, accommodation, and entertainment, but additional expenses can significantly increase the total cost. Cruise expert Jeannine Williamson has provided guidance on which aspects of a voyage are worth the investment and which can be forgone to manage budget.
Shore Excursions
Williamson asserts that shore excursions can significantly enrich a cruise, particularly for first-time visitors to a destination. While prices vary widely, from approximately £60 for a half-day buggy tour in Turkey to $5,800 (£4,280) for a seaplane ride in Alaska, she notes that third-party tour operators are generally more affordable than booking directly through the cruise line. Although cruise lines often assure passengers that their tours will wait if delayed at port, Williamson suggests that reputable external companies can also be found. For instance, platforms like Viator, operated by Tripadvisor, offer a diverse range of excursions, with options in the major cruise port of Messina starting from £37.
Onboard Connectivity
While services like Cellular at Sea are available onboard, they are typically expensive. Williamson recommends opting for the cruise line's Wi-Fi packages, which are often considerably cheaper. Some cruise lines, such as Viking and Silversea, offer complimentary Wi-Fi. For others, daily package costs can range from around £8 on Ambassador cruises to £10 with P&O, while Carnival offers packages starting at $20.40 (£15.20) per day.
Dining and Beverages
Dining at a specialty restaurant on a cruise ship can be a significant indulgence, according to Williamson. However, she advises that for shorter cruises, typically less than five days, the variety of dining options already available might make a specialty restaurant less essential. She highlights the Chef's Table on Ambassador Cruise Line as a notable experience, offering a three-hour private dinner for £89.
Regarding drinks packages, Williamson suggests that holidaymakers should carefully assess their consumption habits against the package price. For those who regularly consume alcoholic beverages, a package might offer value. However, for individuals who plan to drink moderately, purchasing beverages individually may be more economical.
Cabin Selection
Williamson considers upgrading to a balcony cabin a worthwhile expenditure for most passengers, describing it as a "no-brainer." While cabins without a balcony are less expensive and suitable for those who spend minimal time in their room, a balcony offers a private outdoor space away from the ship's communal areas. She notes that the value of a balcony can be diminished in certain circumstances, such as during winter voyages in northern Europe, where a window room might be 25 percent cheaper. The decision to opt for a balcony often depends on individual preferences for personal space and relaxation.
Areas to Reconsider
Williamson advises caution regarding the onboard spa services, which she finds can be overpriced, especially when factoring in mandatory tipping, leading to a potentially underwhelming and costly experience. Photo packages are also listed as an expense to avoid, with Williamson stating she never purchases them, believing passengers can capture high-quality images with their personal smartphones.