Outsmarting the Cruise Line: Savvy Traveler Secrets for Your Best Vacation Yet

How to Save Money, Find Hidden Perks, and Make the Most of Your Cruise Experience

Cruises promise relaxation, adventure, and luxury, but they’re also expertly designed to tempt you into spending more than you planned. That doesn’t mean you can’t beat the system—with the right strategies, you can maximize your enjoyment, minimize your costs, and enhance every step of your journey. Here’s how to cruise like a pro!

Gratuities: Reward for Great Service, Your Way

Skip the automatic gratuities and tip personally instead. Bring a stash of $2 bills and reward excellent service on the spot—bartenders, cabin stewards, waiters—anyone who goes above and beyond. Hand your steward a $20 bill when you arrive and politely request those extra touches: fresh ice, extra towels, a prompt room cleaning, or a late check-out. Prefer not to think about gratuities? Pre-pay and relax—either way, tipping should reflect the service you receive.

Drink Packages: Do the Math Before You Buy

Drink packages can be a great value—but only if you’ll use them. Calculate your likely daily consumption. If you’ll enjoy more than seven drinks a day (liquor, beer, wine, specialty coffees, or bottled water), go for it. If not, skip it. Note: cruise lines usually require all adults in a cabin to purchase the package, so make sure everyone is on board before you commit.

Cabin Selection: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Those alluring inside cabin prices in cruise ads? They’re often your ticket to savings. With help from a travel advisor, you can avoid less desirable rooms (like those above a disco or near noisy engines). Sometimes inside cabins are roomier than their ocean view or balcony counterparts. Check deck plans, seek your advisor’s wisdom, and you might snag a hidden gem.

Embarkation Day: Start Smart

Everyone rushes to the buffet first thing, resulting in crowds and early-prepared food. Instead, ask if the main dining room or specialty restaurants are open for lunch—often with special pricing and fewer guests. Or, have a leisurely meal before boarding and arrive after 1:30 PM. You’ll enjoy shorter lines and a more pleasant start to your vacation.

Dining: Timing Is Everything

Avoid peak dining times for a more relaxed meal. Opt for the earliest dinner seating to enjoy fresh food and attentive service, or arrive about 45 minutes after opening to beat the rush. Alternatively, treat “anytime dining” like dining out at home—expect a short wait, but enjoy flexibility.

Discover Hidden Eats

Beyond the buffet and main dining room, most ships hide culinary surprises: pizza shops, food courts with burgers or tacos, and other grab-and-go delights. Explore the ship on day one—ask the crew where they eat or recommend for a quieter bite. These hidden gems are perfect when main venues get crowded.

Room Location: Choose Wisely

Even a balcony cabin can be less than ideal if it’s beneath a busy venue. Work with a seasoned travel advisor to secure a quiet, comfortable room tailored to your budget and preferences.

Photo Opportunities: Capture the Moment—Your Way

Ship photographers are everywhere, but purchasing photos can be pricey (often $25 or more each). Instead, snap your own shots at popular photo spots (especially when staff are on break). With today’s smartphones, you’ll get great pictures for free—and can print them at home for a fraction of shipboard prices.

Daily Drink Specials: Sip Smart

The “Drink of the Day” is often more about profit than value—usually more sugar, less alcohol, and a higher price. Ask your server for a recommended drink at the same cost, or choose your own favorite. Don’t be dazzled by the marketing; let your taste and wallet guide you.

Luggage Tags: Avoid Lost Bags

Paper tags can tear or fall off in transit. Invest in clear plastic luggage tag holders, or have porters attach them for you at check-in. Always include your cabin information inside your suitcase—just in case. And remember, never put your home address on your luggage tag; your name and phone number suffice.

Disembarkation: Take Your Time

Cruise lines encourage early departures to prep for new guests. But there’s no rush—be among the last off, and you’ll skip crowds, find your luggage easily, breeze through customs, and ride empty elevators. Ask your cabin steward for a late check-out, and savor your final breakfast in the dining room.

Ship Navigation: Outsmart the Buy-Buy-Buy Layout

Notice how you always seem to walk through the casino or shops on your way to dinner? Ships are designed to maximize temptation. As soon as you board, map out efficient routes to your favorite spots—dining rooms, theaters, gyms—so you can avoid high-pressure sales zones and enjoy the ship on your own terms.

Privacy and Preferences: Understanding Your Cabin Card

Your cabin card’s RFID chip tracks your onboard activities, from casino visits to restaurant choices. This data helps cruise lines send targeted offers and promotions. Be mindful, and use those perks to your advantage—but know that your movements are part of the cruise experience.

Work with a Travel Advisor

A seasoned travel advisor is your best ally, helping you find the right accommodations, the perfect timing, and the best deals. Trust their expertise to make your next cruise the smoothest, most enjoyable voyage possible.

Cruising is about relaxation, fun, and adventure. With these strategies, you can enjoy every moment—while keeping your budget in shipshape condition!